by Ruth Ozeki
This is a fascinating book.
It is the story of a diary written by a Japanese teenager who has returned from California with her family and is horribly bullied at school. Her father is depressed and suicidal and her diary together with the influence of her great grandmother is her only way through her troubles.
The diary is found washed up on the beach by a couple who live on an island in Canada. This is not long after the earthquake and tsunami in the north of Japan and throughout the book we are longing to know how this diary got there and whether its author is still alive.
The book is really absorbing as it moves from the second world war to the dot com crash to 9/11 to the present day, introducing the reader to zen and quantum physics along the way. I can't begin to do the book justice but it made me laugh, it made me sad, it made me think and it has the most realistic cat you will ever find described in a novel! I loved this book 9/10
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
The Quarry
by Ian Banks
This is the story of Kit and Guy. Kit is Guy's son and is somewhere along the Asperger's syndrome. Guy has brought Kit up from the time he was left on his doorstep as a baby. He has never told Kit who his mother is, or he has told him many times but each time he is given a different story. Guy is in the latter stages of cancer.
The story is told by Kit and takes place over a winter weekend, when a number of Guy's old university friends have come to visit, with the purpose of trying to find a compromising video tape they made when they were media students at the nearby university, and lived together in this same house.
On this simple plot Ian Bank's crafts a very funny, poignant novel. The characters are few but are brought to life wonderfully in a way that left me wanting the story to continue beyond the ending of the novel. The book is given more edge by the fact that the author died of cancer before publication.
A word of warning. The book makes liberal use of the F-word and C-word, so don't read if this will put you off. Otherwise enjoy! 9/10
This is the story of Kit and Guy. Kit is Guy's son and is somewhere along the Asperger's syndrome. Guy has brought Kit up from the time he was left on his doorstep as a baby. He has never told Kit who his mother is, or he has told him many times but each time he is given a different story. Guy is in the latter stages of cancer.
The story is told by Kit and takes place over a winter weekend, when a number of Guy's old university friends have come to visit, with the purpose of trying to find a compromising video tape they made when they were media students at the nearby university, and lived together in this same house.
On this simple plot Ian Bank's crafts a very funny, poignant novel. The characters are few but are brought to life wonderfully in a way that left me wanting the story to continue beyond the ending of the novel. The book is given more edge by the fact that the author died of cancer before publication.
A word of warning. The book makes liberal use of the F-word and C-word, so don't read if this will put you off. Otherwise enjoy! 9/10
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
The Testament of Mary
by Colm Toibin
I read this as it is on the Booker longlist. It is by far the shortest book at barely a hundred pages.
It is a retelling of the gospel story from Mary's point of view and it borrows so heavily from those works I am surprised it made it to the list. It is written well but I was not very impressed 4/10
I read this as it is on the Booker longlist. It is by far the shortest book at barely a hundred pages.
It is a retelling of the gospel story from Mary's point of view and it borrows so heavily from those works I am surprised it made it to the list. It is written well but I was not very impressed 4/10
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Gone Girl
by Gillian Flynn
A thriller about a woman's disappearance where the clear suspect is the husband. His position is made more untenable by the fact that he tells the readers early on that he is lying to the police.
The story is told in alternate chapters by the husband Nick on the one hand and his wife Amy on the other. The story is further broken up by the fact that the two protagonists tell there story on different timelines so Nicks first chapter is on the day she disappears wheras Amy's first chapter starts 7 years earlier.
The timeframes get closer and closer as the book unfolds and adds to the mounting tension.
It is a pageturner and uses some great devices to arrest the readers attention, but I think the central device has been done better by Sarah Waters.
I enjoyed reading this book but I did feel a little dissatisfied with the ending. 7/10
A thriller about a woman's disappearance where the clear suspect is the husband. His position is made more untenable by the fact that he tells the readers early on that he is lying to the police.
The story is told in alternate chapters by the husband Nick on the one hand and his wife Amy on the other. The story is further broken up by the fact that the two protagonists tell there story on different timelines so Nicks first chapter is on the day she disappears wheras Amy's first chapter starts 7 years earlier.
The timeframes get closer and closer as the book unfolds and adds to the mounting tension.
It is a pageturner and uses some great devices to arrest the readers attention, but I think the central device has been done better by Sarah Waters.
I enjoyed reading this book but I did feel a little dissatisfied with the ending. 7/10
Sunday, July 14, 2013
May we be forgiven
by A. M. Homes
I enjoyed this. If you like Dicken's I think you would like this book. It is peopled with marvellous characters, some more comic than others. It has a young heroine character, a baddy or two and a happy ending. Perfect Dickens territory but set very much in 21st century America.
The narrator is Harold Silver and the story unfolds over a very eventful and wild year from one thanksgiving to the next. The story starts with his sister in law kissing him at the annual thanksgiving dinner, followed closely by his younger and somewhat bullying youger brother being at the wheel of his car when two people are killed. Harold ends up picking up the pieces that leads to further disaster.
There is always something happening which keeps you turning the pages. I felt the last quarter of the book rather coasted to a soft landing but that aside it was a fun read 8/10
I enjoyed this. If you like Dicken's I think you would like this book. It is peopled with marvellous characters, some more comic than others. It has a young heroine character, a baddy or two and a happy ending. Perfect Dickens territory but set very much in 21st century America.
The narrator is Harold Silver and the story unfolds over a very eventful and wild year from one thanksgiving to the next. The story starts with his sister in law kissing him at the annual thanksgiving dinner, followed closely by his younger and somewhat bullying youger brother being at the wheel of his car when two people are killed. Harold ends up picking up the pieces that leads to further disaster.
There is always something happening which keeps you turning the pages. I felt the last quarter of the book rather coasted to a soft landing but that aside it was a fun read 8/10
Tuesday, July 09, 2013
The Third Industrial Revolution
by Jeremy Rifkin
This is a thought provoking book. It maps out a vision for a way through the current climate change problems facing the human race. It does not shy away from the enormity of this challenge and neither does it descent into a doomsday mentality. It is founded in practical case studies that Rifkin is involved with around the globe and the five pillars that he sets out as the bedrock of the third revolution are practical and in many cases well on the way to fruition.
I did have problems with a couple of issues. The first was in chapter eight where Rifkin examines education and changes that need to be made. He suggests that there needs to be a change to collaborative thinking and a working for the common good(my interpretation). There seems to be a belief (hope) that the younger generations will adopt this as a normal way of working. I have trouble reconciling this with my experience which is that there will always be somebody who will see a chance to maximise personal return, albeit at the expense of the majority. I readily accept this may be due to a dose of Calvin in my youth tempered by later Darwin!
Secondly, Rifkin alludes to but did not deal with the problem of the North-South divide. It is a great aspiration to state that the developing countries may leapfrog the developed nations in the roll out of renewable energies etc. but it is hard to see the developed nations letting that happen without a fight. The step back from committment to a green agenda-see recent cuts by the UK and French governments in these areas-suggests that GDP growth will remain the driving force of these nations at any cost.
I applaud the ideas of this book but find it hard to share Mr. Rifkin's optimism for the future of our species. I hope to attend the World forum in Lille later this year and will be interested to hear an update from Jeremy Rifkin on the current state of our planet. I would thoroughly recommend reading this book. 9/10
This is a thought provoking book. It maps out a vision for a way through the current climate change problems facing the human race. It does not shy away from the enormity of this challenge and neither does it descent into a doomsday mentality. It is founded in practical case studies that Rifkin is involved with around the globe and the five pillars that he sets out as the bedrock of the third revolution are practical and in many cases well on the way to fruition.
I did have problems with a couple of issues. The first was in chapter eight where Rifkin examines education and changes that need to be made. He suggests that there needs to be a change to collaborative thinking and a working for the common good(my interpretation). There seems to be a belief (hope) that the younger generations will adopt this as a normal way of working. I have trouble reconciling this with my experience which is that there will always be somebody who will see a chance to maximise personal return, albeit at the expense of the majority. I readily accept this may be due to a dose of Calvin in my youth tempered by later Darwin!
Secondly, Rifkin alludes to but did not deal with the problem of the North-South divide. It is a great aspiration to state that the developing countries may leapfrog the developed nations in the roll out of renewable energies etc. but it is hard to see the developed nations letting that happen without a fight. The step back from committment to a green agenda-see recent cuts by the UK and French governments in these areas-suggests that GDP growth will remain the driving force of these nations at any cost.
I applaud the ideas of this book but find it hard to share Mr. Rifkin's optimism for the future of our species. I hope to attend the World forum in Lille later this year and will be interested to hear an update from Jeremy Rifkin on the current state of our planet. I would thoroughly recommend reading this book. 9/10
Monday, July 08, 2013
Felix Holt-The Radical
by Geaorge Eliot
I listened to this book after thoroughly enjoying Middlemarch and I am not so enthusiastic about this. There is still Eliot's enjoyable humour and her fantastic descriptions of nineteenth century life.
However, my main problem was that I did not like Felix Holt or Harold Transome. Part of me is glad about this but at other times I found it hard to engage with these characters. We were promised so much mystery surrounding Harold that was never delivered upon.
The story is set around the Reform Act of 1832 and the book is a great way of looking at social tensions around at that time however, some, like me, may find that there is a little too much detail on this front. 7/10
I listened to this book after thoroughly enjoying Middlemarch and I am not so enthusiastic about this. There is still Eliot's enjoyable humour and her fantastic descriptions of nineteenth century life.
However, my main problem was that I did not like Felix Holt or Harold Transome. Part of me is glad about this but at other times I found it hard to engage with these characters. We were promised so much mystery surrounding Harold that was never delivered upon.
The story is set around the Reform Act of 1832 and the book is a great way of looking at social tensions around at that time however, some, like me, may find that there is a little too much detail on this front. 7/10
Friday, May 31, 2013
Flight Behaviour
by Barbara Kingsolver
I listened to this as an audio book read by Barbara Kingsolver herself.
The plot revolves around a "small town America" society, and one family in particular that is jolted out of its day to day routine by a natural event triggered by global warming.
It examines one woman's awakening to both her own plight and the larger issues arising from environmental change. I loved the characters and the ending was close to perfect as far I was concerned. This is a thought provoking book that I would read again. 9/10
I listened to this as an audio book read by Barbara Kingsolver herself.
The plot revolves around a "small town America" society, and one family in particular that is jolted out of its day to day routine by a natural event triggered by global warming.
It examines one woman's awakening to both her own plight and the larger issues arising from environmental change. I loved the characters and the ending was close to perfect as far I was concerned. This is a thought provoking book that I would read again. 9/10
Thursday, May 30, 2013
A Delicate Truth
By John le Carre
I really enjoyed this book. It involves the British intelligence services and Cornwall and much in between. As ever you are never quite sure who the good guys are. It moves at a cracking pace and ended too soon 9/10
Saturday, May 04, 2013
The Blind Man's Garden
by Nadeem Aslam
I loved this book. The use of language is gorgeous in places evoking smells, sounds and a sense of place. The story of two brothers in a small Pakistani town near the Afghanistan just after 9/11 is both moving and unnerving as the pain and hopelessness of the individual caught up in a global struggle unfolds. Having said that it is not a book without hope, and as such, is well worth reading 9/10
I loved this book. The use of language is gorgeous in places evoking smells, sounds and a sense of place. The story of two brothers in a small Pakistani town near the Afghanistan just after 9/11 is both moving and unnerving as the pain and hopelessness of the individual caught up in a global struggle unfolds. Having said that it is not a book without hope, and as such, is well worth reading 9/10
Monday, April 29, 2013
Manuscript Found in Accra
by Paul Coelho
I was dissapointed with this book. It read like a book of biblical proverbs-and indeed quotes liberally from the bible. The plot is very thin if existing at all. Like all of his books that I have read the language is beautiful at times and did save the book for me from a premature end. 4/10
I was dissapointed with this book. It read like a book of biblical proverbs-and indeed quotes liberally from the bible. The plot is very thin if existing at all. Like all of his books that I have read the language is beautiful at times and did save the book for me from a premature end. 4/10
The Ghost riders of Ordebec
by Fred Vargas
Another good read featuring Inspector Adamsberg. I like these novels because they are full of quirky characters. This novel is no exception and if anything swings too far into the quirky nature of the Inspector and his team rather than concentrating on the crime that needed solving. It was not the best of Fred Vargas but enjoyable all the same. 7/10
Another good read featuring Inspector Adamsberg. I like these novels because they are full of quirky characters. This novel is no exception and if anything swings too far into the quirky nature of the Inspector and his team rather than concentrating on the crime that needed solving. It was not the best of Fred Vargas but enjoyable all the same. 7/10
A dance to the Music of Time-Spring
by Anthony Powell
This is the first volume of the four part version of Powell's story of 20th century England, consisting of three of the twelve novels in the series. I found myself drifting from wrapt enjoyment to wishing he would just get on with it throughout the story. Some of the characters are really enjoyable. The alcoholic Stringham, the arrogant Widmerpool and the crazy left winger Gypsy Jones spring to mind among others. The narrator, Nicholas Jenkins I found tedious in the way he was so detatched from the story he was intimately involved in.
We move from his schooldays-just after the Great War-to the 1930's, and it is a well drawn picture of a very narrow section of British society during this period. It is comical in places but overall it left me with a feeling of melancholy. Will I read the rest of the series? I think I probably will, but need a break first. 6/10
This is the first volume of the four part version of Powell's story of 20th century England, consisting of three of the twelve novels in the series. I found myself drifting from wrapt enjoyment to wishing he would just get on with it throughout the story. Some of the characters are really enjoyable. The alcoholic Stringham, the arrogant Widmerpool and the crazy left winger Gypsy Jones spring to mind among others. The narrator, Nicholas Jenkins I found tedious in the way he was so detatched from the story he was intimately involved in.
We move from his schooldays-just after the Great War-to the 1930's, and it is a well drawn picture of a very narrow section of British society during this period. It is comical in places but overall it left me with a feeling of melancholy. Will I read the rest of the series? I think I probably will, but need a break first. 6/10
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Hard Times
by Charles Dickens
The only major novel by Dickens I had not read previously. I thoroughly enjoyed this as Dickens lays into nineteenth century capitalism with all guns blazing.
Yes its full of melodrama, and cartoon characters but it is also full of comedy (read the first few chapters to see where Monty Python got there "shoebox in the middle of the road"sketch), and great characters like Gradgrind and Bounderby, Stephen and Rachel.
If you have never read any Dickens, this is not his best novel, but it is short and would be a good place to start. I am biased because I love Dickens so don't be swayed by my score. 9/10
The only major novel by Dickens I had not read previously. I thoroughly enjoyed this as Dickens lays into nineteenth century capitalism with all guns blazing.
Yes its full of melodrama, and cartoon characters but it is also full of comedy (read the first few chapters to see where Monty Python got there "shoebox in the middle of the road"sketch), and great characters like Gradgrind and Bounderby, Stephen and Rachel.
If you have never read any Dickens, this is not his best novel, but it is short and would be a good place to start. I am biased because I love Dickens so don't be swayed by my score. 9/10
The Second World War
by Antony Beevor
I covered this book through a combination of audio book and print. If I am honest, I may not have finished this in print as I am not a big follower of military history, and inevitably there is a lot of description of battles. However, this book covers a lot of the politics and social history as well, and is an excellent overview of a war that changed the face of the world.
The numbers become incomprehensible and the depths of savagery that man can fall too are made very apparrent. I think everyone should make themselves aware of this conflict in the hope that we may never go there again. History is written by the victors and this book is no exception (so for instance bomber Harris is treated far more leniently than he would have been if German), but for all that it tries to be as objective as possible. A chilling book, a depressing book, but with this subject matter, it should be. 9/10
I covered this book through a combination of audio book and print. If I am honest, I may not have finished this in print as I am not a big follower of military history, and inevitably there is a lot of description of battles. However, this book covers a lot of the politics and social history as well, and is an excellent overview of a war that changed the face of the world.
The numbers become incomprehensible and the depths of savagery that man can fall too are made very apparrent. I think everyone should make themselves aware of this conflict in the hope that we may never go there again. History is written by the victors and this book is no exception (so for instance bomber Harris is treated far more leniently than he would have been if German), but for all that it tries to be as objective as possible. A chilling book, a depressing book, but with this subject matter, it should be. 9/10
Friday, February 22, 2013
Waiting for Sunrise
by William Boyd
When your lead character has a name like Lysander Rief, and the book opens in 1913 Vienna with him visiting a contemporary of Freud to deal with a complaint called Anorgasmia (you will have to look it up or read the book), then you know you are in for another great tale from William Boyd.
Lysander is an actor by profession, the son of a famous actor, and we follow him from Vienna to London to avoid a scrape, and into the First World War, espionage and more to boot. Anything I have read by William Boyd is always enjoyable. I enjoyed the twists and turns in the latter stages of the novel but found myself a little disappointed with the ending. 7/10
When your lead character has a name like Lysander Rief, and the book opens in 1913 Vienna with him visiting a contemporary of Freud to deal with a complaint called Anorgasmia (you will have to look it up or read the book), then you know you are in for another great tale from William Boyd.
Lysander is an actor by profession, the son of a famous actor, and we follow him from Vienna to London to avoid a scrape, and into the First World War, espionage and more to boot. Anything I have read by William Boyd is always enjoyable. I enjoyed the twists and turns in the latter stages of the novel but found myself a little disappointed with the ending. 7/10
The Rise and Fall of the Second Empire, 1852-1871
by Alain Plessis
This is a book in the Cambridge History of Modern France series. I enjoyed it because I have an interest in all things to do with the Second Empire in France, and this book is a good backgrounder to the social and political events of that time. Having said that, it could be a bit dry at times and may be better to dip into than read cover to cover. Mind you, it is not that long at 212 pages.
It gives some fascinating insights into a period of significant change in France resulting from the railways and changes in industrial and commercial practices. It also approaches the topic of Napoleon III's reputation and whether he was a force for good or bad, and I think concludes that the jury is still out! 7/10
This is a book in the Cambridge History of Modern France series. I enjoyed it because I have an interest in all things to do with the Second Empire in France, and this book is a good backgrounder to the social and political events of that time. Having said that, it could be a bit dry at times and may be better to dip into than read cover to cover. Mind you, it is not that long at 212 pages.
It gives some fascinating insights into a period of significant change in France resulting from the railways and changes in industrial and commercial practices. It also approaches the topic of Napoleon III's reputation and whether he was a force for good or bad, and I think concludes that the jury is still out! 7/10
A Cold Day for Murder
by Dana Stabenow
This is the first in a series of 20 novels featuring Kate Shugak. She is an ex police officer who lives in the middle of a cold Alaska, where crime is rife and racism is not far under the surface. This case involves an investigation of two missing persons. It is a quick read but I liked the characters and the description of an unknown landscape. Not sure she will be boosting the local tourism economy though. Good relaxing reading if you like crime novels 7/10
This is the first in a series of 20 novels featuring Kate Shugak. She is an ex police officer who lives in the middle of a cold Alaska, where crime is rife and racism is not far under the surface. This case involves an investigation of two missing persons. It is a quick read but I liked the characters and the description of an unknown landscape. Not sure she will be boosting the local tourism economy though. Good relaxing reading if you like crime novels 7/10
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
The Cleaner of Chartres
by Sally Vickers
This was not my normal choice of read but I enjoyed it. The descriptions of Chartres and the Cathedral are very good and the plot-while not exactly complex-moves along at an engaging pace. The cleaner of the title has a mysterious past that is unveiled as the story progresses and has a good upbeat ending.
Some of the story line seems a bit unnecessary-do we really need a mother superior running off with a monk in Rome? Still apart from some monor irritations along this line it was still agreeable. 6/10
This was not my normal choice of read but I enjoyed it. The descriptions of Chartres and the Cathedral are very good and the plot-while not exactly complex-moves along at an engaging pace. The cleaner of the title has a mysterious past that is unveiled as the story progresses and has a good upbeat ending.
Some of the story line seems a bit unnecessary-do we really need a mother superior running off with a monk in Rome? Still apart from some monor irritations along this line it was still agreeable. 6/10
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
The One Hundred Year Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared
by Jonas Jonasson
This is a book that lives up to the promise of the wacky title.
It follows the fortune of its hero, Allan Karlsson, following his climb out of the said window as well as going back over his remarkable life.
It follows the fortune of its hero, Allan Karlsson, following his climb out of the said window as well as going back over his remarkable life.
The book is very funny in places but falls into the tallest of tall story categories and is ultimately a feel good story that I was more than ready for by my Christmas break. Apart from the real life historical figures there are a great array of support characters that you cannot help cheering on as the book progresses. 7/10
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Bring up the Bodies
by Hilary Mantel
This is the sequel to Wolf Hall and once again won the Booker prize. I enjoyed this so much more than Wolf Hall. The story of Thomas Cromwell continues and he is given a central role in the demise of Anne Boleyn. He is a great character and if little is known about him historically these books create a character that you both love and hate in equal measure. He is ruthless and yet loyal and has a cast of characters around him who bring the court alive. I still find the writing style hard at times but the plot of this book kept me going even though I knew the ending! 8/10
This is the sequel to Wolf Hall and once again won the Booker prize. I enjoyed this so much more than Wolf Hall. The story of Thomas Cromwell continues and he is given a central role in the demise of Anne Boleyn. He is a great character and if little is known about him historically these books create a character that you both love and hate in equal measure. He is ruthless and yet loyal and has a cast of characters around him who bring the court alive. I still find the writing style hard at times but the plot of this book kept me going even though I knew the ending! 8/10
The Great Gatsby
by F Scott Fitzgerald
Listened to this as audiobook and got a bit frustrated with the narrator. However, the story is good. It is a short novel and yet, somehow, Fitzgerald summons up a sense of place which is breathtaking. The narrator is placed in the centre of the action and yet is totally detached from it, which works incredibly well. Definitely recommend 8/10
Listened to this as audiobook and got a bit frustrated with the narrator. However, the story is good. It is a short novel and yet, somehow, Fitzgerald summons up a sense of place which is breathtaking. The narrator is placed in the centre of the action and yet is totally detached from it, which works incredibly well. Definitely recommend 8/10
Our Man in Havana
by Graham Greene
The story of an English colonial vacuum salesman in Cuba who inadvertently gets caught up in the secret service. Wormold is a great creation, together with his daughter Milly and his friend Dr. Hasselbacher I enjoyed every minute of this book. Probably should be read with a Cuban soundtrack playing in the background and a glass of whiskey by your side.
It is humorous throughout and even in its darker passages(It is Graham Greene after all) it seems to tread lightly. I think the novel works because as the book concludes, Wormold is crazy but "... never quite mad enough." 9/10
The story of an English colonial vacuum salesman in Cuba who inadvertently gets caught up in the secret service. Wormold is a great creation, together with his daughter Milly and his friend Dr. Hasselbacher I enjoyed every minute of this book. Probably should be read with a Cuban soundtrack playing in the background and a glass of whiskey by your side.
It is humorous throughout and even in its darker passages(It is Graham Greene after all) it seems to tread lightly. I think the novel works because as the book concludes, Wormold is crazy but "... never quite mad enough." 9/10
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
The Dinner
by Herman Koch
A very enjoyable book that looks at 4 people out for dinner and how they react. Gradually we start to understand why they are there and the dark secret they all know about but aren't revealing to each other. It builds the tension very well and keeps you asking what you would do in their position.
I found the ending a bit implausible and so would mark it down for that 6/10
A very enjoyable book that looks at 4 people out for dinner and how they react. Gradually we start to understand why they are there and the dark secret they all know about but aren't revealing to each other. It builds the tension very well and keeps you asking what you would do in their position.
I found the ending a bit implausible and so would mark it down for that 6/10
The Prague Cemetery
by Umberto Eco
This is a mad romp through the second half of the nineteenth century with a narrator, one Simomini and possibly a priest called Dalla Piccola. All the other characters in the book are, we are told, real characters from history and certainly many of them are.
We learn very early on that Simonini is in some sort of trouble and, having at some point met with Freud and obtained some cocaine for him, he has locked himself away and is using some Freudian technique to find out what has happened to him.
This allows us to discover Simonini's life story. His only love is food-and maybe money and he seems to hate everybody-the Germans, the Italians, the French, women, Jews(although he has never met any), Freemasons and Jesuits all come in for torrents of abuse in this book.
The story takes us to Italy and the wars of Garibaldi, to France and Germany in a rapid race through various historical episodes. I particularly liked Simonini's involvement in the Dreyfus affair. The book is at once very amusing and slightly disturbing with a great finale. As with other Umberto Eco books he can get bogged down in detail at times but this bbok-which I listened to as an audiobook was very enjoyable. 8/10
This is a mad romp through the second half of the nineteenth century with a narrator, one Simomini and possibly a priest called Dalla Piccola. All the other characters in the book are, we are told, real characters from history and certainly many of them are.
We learn very early on that Simonini is in some sort of trouble and, having at some point met with Freud and obtained some cocaine for him, he has locked himself away and is using some Freudian technique to find out what has happened to him.
This allows us to discover Simonini's life story. His only love is food-and maybe money and he seems to hate everybody-the Germans, the Italians, the French, women, Jews(although he has never met any), Freemasons and Jesuits all come in for torrents of abuse in this book.
The story takes us to Italy and the wars of Garibaldi, to France and Germany in a rapid race through various historical episodes. I particularly liked Simonini's involvement in the Dreyfus affair. The book is at once very amusing and slightly disturbing with a great finale. As with other Umberto Eco books he can get bogged down in detail at times but this bbok-which I listened to as an audiobook was very enjoyable. 8/10
Tales of the New Babylon
by Rupert Christiansen
This book looks at Paris in the years 1869 to 1875.
This is a fascinating time covering the fall of the second empire, the franco-prussian war, the four month seige of Paris and the time of the Commune followed by the birth of the Third Republic.
I bought the book as a reference book to dip into now and then but once I had read the first chapter-a fascinating mix of contemorary travel guides-I was hooked and found it hard to put down until I had finished. The style is very easy and draws heavily on first hand accounts including many foreign observers who were caught up in events of the seige and the commune. There is a very good bibliography and two picture sections. This is most definitely a book I would revisit. 8/10
This book looks at Paris in the years 1869 to 1875.
This is a fascinating time covering the fall of the second empire, the franco-prussian war, the four month seige of Paris and the time of the Commune followed by the birth of the Third Republic.
I bought the book as a reference book to dip into now and then but once I had read the first chapter-a fascinating mix of contemorary travel guides-I was hooked and found it hard to put down until I had finished. The style is very easy and draws heavily on first hand accounts including many foreign observers who were caught up in events of the seige and the commune. There is a very good bibliography and two picture sections. This is most definitely a book I would revisit. 8/10
Tuesday, November 06, 2012
Snowdrops
by AD Miller
My second audiobook!
This book is the tale of a British lawyer in Russia in the early 21st century. Nick, the lawyer tells his story by writing to his fiancee about his time there and what went wrong and how it happened.
From early on you know something disastrous happened, and with the introduction of a stunning blonde and her supposed cousin, you know it must involve them.
It is a very compelling read, and whether or not based in reality, is not very flattering of the emergent Russian society. To the end I was still wanting to know what happened.
Having said that, I found some of Nick's decisions or ommissions a little unbelievable. But that aside I wouldn't hesitate to reccomend it for a holiday read. 7/10
My second audiobook!
This book is the tale of a British lawyer in Russia in the early 21st century. Nick, the lawyer tells his story by writing to his fiancee about his time there and what went wrong and how it happened.
From early on you know something disastrous happened, and with the introduction of a stunning blonde and her supposed cousin, you know it must involve them.
It is a very compelling read, and whether or not based in reality, is not very flattering of the emergent Russian society. To the end I was still wanting to know what happened.
Having said that, I found some of Nick's decisions or ommissions a little unbelievable. But that aside I wouldn't hesitate to reccomend it for a holiday read. 7/10
Where I Left my Soul
by Jerome Ferrari
This is a short novel translated from the French. It involves alternating reflections by two soldiers who have served in Indo China and Algeria together.
In reflections the main narrator, Capitaine Degorce traces his loss of innocence and moral compass, in what becomes a tragic story of the effect of one nations wars on the individual. It was intensely moving and demonstrates the near impossibility of holding firm values in a relativistic world. 9/10
This is a short novel translated from the French. It involves alternating reflections by two soldiers who have served in Indo China and Algeria together.
In reflections the main narrator, Capitaine Degorce traces his loss of innocence and moral compass, in what becomes a tragic story of the effect of one nations wars on the individual. It was intensely moving and demonstrates the near impossibility of holding firm values in a relativistic world. 9/10
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
The Garden of Evening Mists
by Tan Twan Eng
This story moves between three time periods-the second world war, the early 1950's and today.
The story is that of a Chinese malay woman who survives a Japanese slave camp in the second world war and goes on, in part driven by revenge, to become a high court judge. Her sister-who adored Japanese gardens-died in the camp. Hating the Japanese, but wanting to fulfil a promise made to her sister she sets about making a Japanese garden. The book is the story of how she tries to do this-thrown into direct contact with Aritoma-a man who used to be the Emperor's gardener. They work together on Aritomo's garden and this part of the story is set against the backdrop of the civil war in Malaya that led to independance.
The book is beautiful to read and almost sings of the beauty of the garden while at the same time telling a tale of utter despair and hopelessness. Fantastic 8/10
This story moves between three time periods-the second world war, the early 1950's and today.
The story is that of a Chinese malay woman who survives a Japanese slave camp in the second world war and goes on, in part driven by revenge, to become a high court judge. Her sister-who adored Japanese gardens-died in the camp. Hating the Japanese, but wanting to fulfil a promise made to her sister she sets about making a Japanese garden. The book is the story of how she tries to do this-thrown into direct contact with Aritoma-a man who used to be the Emperor's gardener. They work together on Aritomo's garden and this part of the story is set against the backdrop of the civil war in Malaya that led to independance.
The book is beautiful to read and almost sings of the beauty of the garden while at the same time telling a tale of utter despair and hopelessness. Fantastic 8/10
Middlemarch
by George Eliot
This was my first ever audio bookand I loved it-the story and the format. This is a long book where not a great deal happens but the humour and the drama of small town life against a background of national changes is gripping. It is full of heroes and heroines, villains and crooks, all painted with a reality that allows you to recognise them as people you may have come across.
I listened on my way to work and found myself looking for longer routes so I could squeeze a bit more in on each journey.
Was Dorothea too good? Well maybe, but her sense of humour and her mistakes in marriage make you love her anyway. And I am sure am not the only person willing Mr. Casaubin to die! 9/10
This was my first ever audio bookand I loved it-the story and the format. This is a long book where not a great deal happens but the humour and the drama of small town life against a background of national changes is gripping. It is full of heroes and heroines, villains and crooks, all painted with a reality that allows you to recognise them as people you may have come across.
I listened on my way to work and found myself looking for longer routes so I could squeeze a bit more in on each journey.
Was Dorothea too good? Well maybe, but her sense of humour and her mistakes in marriage make you love her anyway. And I am sure am not the only person willing Mr. Casaubin to die! 9/10
Thursday, September 27, 2012
The Boxer and the Goalkeeper
by Andy Martin
This is a book examining the lives of Sartre and Camus and their renowned friendship and falling out. Knowing very little about these two individuals I found the book very accessible and a good read. Having enjoyed the little Camus that I have read it was a useful book to put some of that writing in context. 8/10
This is a book examining the lives of Sartre and Camus and their renowned friendship and falling out. Knowing very little about these two individuals I found the book very accessible and a good read. Having enjoyed the little Camus that I have read it was a useful book to put some of that writing in context. 8/10
The Lighthouse
by Alison Moore
This was a strange book that I found compelling for a reason that I cannot put my hands on. It follows the walking tour of Futh along the Rhine, following seperation from his wife and is full of flashbacks to his marriage and his childhood. Running alongside this is the story of Ester, the landlady in the hotel in which he stays on his first and last night. Quite how there lives are entwined provides some dark humour to the book. 7/10
This was a strange book that I found compelling for a reason that I cannot put my hands on. It follows the walking tour of Futh along the Rhine, following seperation from his wife and is full of flashbacks to his marriage and his childhood. Running alongside this is the story of Ester, the landlady in the hotel in which he stays on his first and last night. Quite how there lives are entwined provides some dark humour to the book. 7/10
Swimming Home
by Deborah Levy
This is a short novel about an English family-father a poet, mother a war correspondent and daughter a confused teenager-whose holiday in a French Villa near Nice with 2 friends of the wife is disrupted by finding a naked young woman in the swimming pool. She stays and the fallout is examined in this book. The writing was beautiful but the plot I found less gripping 6/10
This is a short novel about an English family-father a poet, mother a war correspondent and daughter a confused teenager-whose holiday in a French Villa near Nice with 2 friends of the wife is disrupted by finding a naked young woman in the swimming pool. She stays and the fallout is examined in this book. The writing was beautiful but the plot I found less gripping 6/10
Sweet Tooth
by Ian McEwan
This was as expected in that he plays with the reader a little by asserting his authorial right to choose an ending and letting us know that he is doing it. He also plays with the Booker prize -from which he was noticeably absent this year! However, the story is about an ex MI5 agent who messed up and was sacked. We know this because the narrator tells us in the first chapter that this is what she did. It is a mark of McEwan's powers of storytelling that, knowing this, he holds the tension throughout the novel. Some lovely reflections on 70's britain to boot. 9/10
This was as expected in that he plays with the reader a little by asserting his authorial right to choose an ending and letting us know that he is doing it. He also plays with the Booker prize -from which he was noticeably absent this year! However, the story is about an ex MI5 agent who messed up and was sacked. We know this because the narrator tells us in the first chapter that this is what she did. It is a mark of McEwan's powers of storytelling that, knowing this, he holds the tension throughout the novel. Some lovely reflections on 70's britain to boot. 9/10
Monday, August 27, 2012
Narcopolis
by Jeet Thayil
This book is based in Bombay in the 80's and 90's and looks at the world of drugs and brothels and lowlifes through the eyes of an opium addict and some rather unattractive characters who I fould myself getting drawn to as the book progressed.
The lives of Rashid, the owner of the opium den and Dimple a very attractive eunuch, who moves from the brothel to the opium den, gradually disintegrate through their opium use and the influx of new drugs onto the market.
It is a book that could do with a glossary as many of the terms went over my head but I did find it moving and strangely engaging 5/10
This book is based in Bombay in the 80's and 90's and looks at the world of drugs and brothels and lowlifes through the eyes of an opium addict and some rather unattractive characters who I fould myself getting drawn to as the book progressed.
The lives of Rashid, the owner of the opium den and Dimple a very attractive eunuch, who moves from the brothel to the opium den, gradually disintegrate through their opium use and the influx of new drugs onto the market.
It is a book that could do with a glossary as many of the terms went over my head but I did find it moving and strangely engaging 5/10
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Skios
by Michael Frayn
This is a very easy read. It is also very amusing, and farce par excellence.
Dr. Norman Wilfred arrives on a Greek island to give an important lecture to a gathering of the rich and famous. Arriving at the same time is the rakish Oliver Fox. With a mix up over a suitcase and an innocent smile, a whole train of mistaken identity and mayhem ensues.
Michael Frayn seems able to take things to where they cannot get worse and then makes them worse in an almost plausible way.
Even when the end looms and you feel that you must be let down, a piece of nimble linguistic footwork brings things to an enjoyable, if improbable ending.
I read it in a weekend during two train journeys and it almost demands to be read in a short time frame. On the beach maybe-but do check your suitcase labels! 9/10
This is a very easy read. It is also very amusing, and farce par excellence.
Dr. Norman Wilfred arrives on a Greek island to give an important lecture to a gathering of the rich and famous. Arriving at the same time is the rakish Oliver Fox. With a mix up over a suitcase and an innocent smile, a whole train of mistaken identity and mayhem ensues.
Michael Frayn seems able to take things to where they cannot get worse and then makes them worse in an almost plausible way.
Even when the end looms and you feel that you must be let down, a piece of nimble linguistic footwork brings things to an enjoyable, if improbable ending.
I read it in a weekend during two train journeys and it almost demands to be read in a short time frame. On the beach maybe-but do check your suitcase labels! 9/10
Confessions of a Failed Southern Lady
by Florence King
This is a memoir of Florence Kink's early life. It is very funny in places and sad in others. Some of the American references were lost on me but it did not distract from the enjoyment.
Despite the wacky family she came from-and which of us have families that our nnot weird in the eyes of others-it left me feeling that this was a tribute to her family and the values they instilled in her.
Her descriptions of her sexual awakening and adventures are not for the sqeamish but she manages to handle them with humour, and deals with loss in a way that can only induce empathy. 8/10
This is a memoir of Florence Kink's early life. It is very funny in places and sad in others. Some of the American references were lost on me but it did not distract from the enjoyment.
Despite the wacky family she came from-and which of us have families that our nnot weird in the eyes of others-it left me feeling that this was a tribute to her family and the values they instilled in her.
Her descriptions of her sexual awakening and adventures are not for the sqeamish but she manages to handle them with humour, and deals with loss in a way that can only induce empathy. 8/10
Monday, August 13, 2012
Lourdes
by Emile Zola
A bit of a mixed bag. Zola deals well with the crisis of faith experienced by the hero Pierre, and despite his personal views, lays out the conflicts between faith and rationalism in a realistic way. However, he also wants to tell us the story of Bernadette and point out the problems of Lourdes as an institution. In fact he wants to do a lot of things and in my view spends too long doing them such that it becomes in part repetitive.
There are a host of characters in the book but I could only engage with Pierre and Marie and her father. The other characters were either too similar or too vague to find that interesting. Like all Zola the naturalism is outstanding and the descriptions of some of the sick can induce nausea, but the detail of the train journey was fascinating as was the description of Lourdes itself. However, not one of his best 5/10
A bit of a mixed bag. Zola deals well with the crisis of faith experienced by the hero Pierre, and despite his personal views, lays out the conflicts between faith and rationalism in a realistic way. However, he also wants to tell us the story of Bernadette and point out the problems of Lourdes as an institution. In fact he wants to do a lot of things and in my view spends too long doing them such that it becomes in part repetitive.
There are a host of characters in the book but I could only engage with Pierre and Marie and her father. The other characters were either too similar or too vague to find that interesting. Like all Zola the naturalism is outstanding and the descriptions of some of the sick can induce nausea, but the detail of the train journey was fascinating as was the description of Lourdes itself. However, not one of his best 5/10
Saturday, August 11, 2012
New Finnish Grammar
by Diego Marani
This is a strange, fascinating tale set in the second world war about a man who is suffering from amnesia. The doctor who first treats him patches together various evidence suggesting he is from Finland and sends him to be cared for by a friend in Helsinki. The friend never appears and this story evolves as our central character tries to pick up the pieces of a lost life and lost language. It is beautifully written/translated and I only found a problem with the ending where it felt as though the author had realised a deadline was looming and pushed the resolution of the story into as short an ending as possible.
It is at times sad, at times amusing but always engaging 8/10
This is a strange, fascinating tale set in the second world war about a man who is suffering from amnesia. The doctor who first treats him patches together various evidence suggesting he is from Finland and sends him to be cared for by a friend in Helsinki. The friend never appears and this story evolves as our central character tries to pick up the pieces of a lost life and lost language. It is beautifully written/translated and I only found a problem with the ending where it felt as though the author had realised a deadline was looming and pushed the resolution of the story into as short an ending as possible.
It is at times sad, at times amusing but always engaging 8/10
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Pure
by Andrew Miller
This is a quirky novel telling the story of the demolition of a cemetery in Paris that formed the foundation for the catacombs. It all takes place in a year and all I can say is I loved it. 9/10
This is a quirky novel telling the story of the demolition of a cemetery in Paris that formed the foundation for the catacombs. It all takes place in a year and all I can say is I loved it. 9/10
The Dreyfus Affair
by Piers Paul Read
This is a very readable and informative summary of the Dreyfus case and its impact on contemporary and later France. In the ways many history works are it is a depressing book in that we never seem to learn the lessons that history lays out for us. But don't let my melancholia stop you reading an excellent book. 9/10
This is a very readable and informative summary of the Dreyfus case and its impact on contemporary and later France. In the ways many history works are it is a depressing book in that we never seem to learn the lessons that history lays out for us. But don't let my melancholia stop you reading an excellent book. 9/10
A Shed of One's Own
by Marcus Berkmann
This book will only appeal to those over 45 or those with a disposition to laugh at the misfortunes of others. Being the right (or is that wrong) side of 45 I enjoyed this book immensely, laughing out loud on numerous occasions as I recognised my own woes and troubles were shared by others. Should be prescribed by doctors for all menopausal men 9/10
This book will only appeal to those over 45 or those with a disposition to laugh at the misfortunes of others. Being the right (or is that wrong) side of 45 I enjoyed this book immensely, laughing out loud on numerous occasions as I recognised my own woes and troubles were shared by others. Should be prescribed by doctors for all menopausal men 9/10
The Widow Lerouge
by Emile Gaboriau
Written in the 1800's this is a detective story which is both entertaining and historically interesting being one of the first in this genre.
The characters are interesting and the end maybe predictable but definitely falls into the category of a good yarn 7/10
Written in the 1800's this is a detective story which is both entertaining and historically interesting being one of the first in this genre.
The characters are interesting and the end maybe predictable but definitely falls into the category of a good yarn 7/10
CharlesDickens: A Life
by Claire Tomalin
Claire Tomalin is a great biographer who draws you into an empathy with her subjects while remaining fairly objective about their lives.
Dickens was a literary genius but like most geniuses this did not mean the rest of his life was perfect.
I like this biography because it paints the picture of a man who while a great writer and a man of extaordinary energy we are not spared details of his flaws and lifelong inner turmoils. 9/10
Claire Tomalin is a great biographer who draws you into an empathy with her subjects while remaining fairly objective about their lives.
Dickens was a literary genius but like most geniuses this did not mean the rest of his life was perfect.
I like this biography because it paints the picture of a man who while a great writer and a man of extaordinary energy we are not spared details of his flaws and lifelong inner turmoils. 9/10
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
The Most Beautiful Walk in the World
by John Baxter
Its funny, its an easy read and it has gems of information about Paris and some great pictures. Did we need the Aussie chapter-probably not- but small quibbles like that aside-I really enjoyed this and came away with a number of places added to my list of things I want to do when next in Paris. If I had to pick one I have not done already, it will be a visit to La Rotonde as I have always avoided Montparnasse as just a busy area to be used for the railway only. If Paris are ever looking for an ex pat ambassador they have found their man in John Baxter. 7/10
Its funny, its an easy read and it has gems of information about Paris and some great pictures. Did we need the Aussie chapter-probably not- but small quibbles like that aside-I really enjoyed this and came away with a number of places added to my list of things I want to do when next in Paris. If I had to pick one I have not done already, it will be a visit to La Rotonde as I have always avoided Montparnasse as just a busy area to be used for the railway only. If Paris are ever looking for an ex pat ambassador they have found their man in John Baxter. 7/10
Paris During the Commune
by William Gibson
This book is a collection of letters written by a British Methodist minister who was responsible for a Paris circuit. It is compulsive reading as he outlines what it was like living as an ex-pat during the bloody weeks of the Commune. In many ways it offers an alternative view, suggesting at times it was not as bad as it seemed and suggesting the commune were just a bunch of rabble rousers. Even though the description of Paris burning and the column in place vendome being pulled down are absorbing. For the immediacy and quirky angle this is well worth a read. You will need to get a second hand copy. 8/10
This book is a collection of letters written by a British Methodist minister who was responsible for a Paris circuit. It is compulsive reading as he outlines what it was like living as an ex-pat during the bloody weeks of the Commune. In many ways it offers an alternative view, suggesting at times it was not as bad as it seemed and suggesting the commune were just a bunch of rabble rousers. Even though the description of Paris burning and the column in place vendome being pulled down are absorbing. For the immediacy and quirky angle this is well worth a read. You will need to get a second hand copy. 8/10
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Hard Revolution
by George Pelecanos
I read this book shortly after reading the Turnaround and found that both books were very similar in style and approach so while I enjoyed the first book I enjoyed this less. Having said that the musical references and the depiction of the banality of normal lives during what history will determine as seminal moments is masterful storytelling. 6/10
I read this book shortly after reading the Turnaround and found that both books were very similar in style and approach so while I enjoyed the first book I enjoyed this less. Having said that the musical references and the depiction of the banality of normal lives during what history will determine as seminal moments is masterful storytelling. 6/10
Cain
by José Saramago
Very witty take on the Old Testament but it may get a bit laborious if you do not know the Old Testament in the first place. 7/10
Very witty take on the Old Testament but it may get a bit laborious if you do not know the Old Testament in the first place. 7/10
Thursday, February 02, 2012
The Turnaround
by George Pelecanos
This is an interesting tale of teenagers growing up and racism in 70's Washington and the consequences 3 decades later.It does not turn out like I expected which I enjoyed. It was a good read 6/10
This is an interesting tale of teenagers growing up and racism in 70's Washington and the consequences 3 decades later.It does not turn out like I expected which I enjoyed. It was a good read 6/10
The Map and the Territory
by Michel Houellebecq
This is the story of an artist called Jed Martin and features a character called Michel Houellebecq. I found it very amusing and the first part of the book works extremely well. In the later part of the book things take a rather black turn and without losing its way, I felt it rather petered out. Having said that I enjoyed this book far more than his other books that I have read and find the arguments that have raged over plagiarism of wikipedia part of the amusement factor. 8/10
This is the story of an artist called Jed Martin and features a character called Michel Houellebecq. I found it very amusing and the first part of the book works extremely well. In the later part of the book things take a rather black turn and without losing its way, I felt it rather petered out. Having said that I enjoyed this book far more than his other books that I have read and find the arguments that have raged over plagiarism of wikipedia part of the amusement factor. 8/10
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Life and Fate
by Vasily Grossman
I read this book after a heavy sell on the BBC and by the publisher Vintage in September this year. I have to confess that I found it a bit of a struggle. There were a lot of intertwining stories giving a fantastic picture of how difficult and disjointed living through war can be, both for families and a community as a whole.
Having said this, I found the stories too disjointed and struggled throughout remembering who was who. Not as good as I was hoping it would be. 6/10
I read this book after a heavy sell on the BBC and by the publisher Vintage in September this year. I have to confess that I found it a bit of a struggle. There were a lot of intertwining stories giving a fantastic picture of how difficult and disjointed living through war can be, both for families and a community as a whole.
Having said this, I found the stories too disjointed and struggled throughout remembering who was who. Not as good as I was hoping it would be. 6/10
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Bartleby, the Scrivener
by Herman Melville
This short story is fascinating and if asked to review it I think I would have to say "I would prefer not to". The purpose of it I do not know and true to Melville's comments at the beginning there is little to tell of Bartleby's history but it is a great read, if not a little quirky. 8/10
This short story is fascinating and if asked to review it I think I would have to say "I would prefer not to". The purpose of it I do not know and true to Melville's comments at the beginning there is little to tell of Bartleby's history but it is a great read, if not a little quirky. 8/10
Half Blood Blues
by Esi Edugyan.
I enjoyed this book about a group of jazz musicians who get together at the beginning of the second world war in Berlin and Paris. The book moves between then and now and gradually explains why certain things happened and why certain things did not. Along the way it mixes in historical figures who add interest. Would definitely recommend to a friend. 8/10
I enjoyed this book about a group of jazz musicians who get together at the beginning of the second world war in Berlin and Paris. The book moves between then and now and gradually explains why certain things happened and why certain things did not. Along the way it mixes in historical figures who add interest. Would definitely recommend to a friend. 8/10
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Jamrach's Menagerie
by Carol Birch
Amother Booker nominee and an interesting tale based around two factual events. However, the middle section involving lizard hunting and shipwreck was far too long for me and the shipwreck in particular needs a strong stomach to get through!
Having said that it was a gripping tale and an almost upbeat ending! 7/10
The Last 100 Days
by Patrick McGuinness
There was an element of nostalgia reading this book having visited Romania during the disctator's regime and having vivid memories of the TV coverage of his final days in 1989. The story is enthralling and I enjoyed it a lot. Not sure I would read it again but definitely worth reading and I liked the dvice of putting the narrator centre stage but at a late enough time to be an outsider looking in. 8/10
Sunday, September 04, 2011
The Sisters Brothers
by Patrick deWitt
This was a very engaging, black comic book. It was one of those books where I would like to ask the author why he wrote it in the first place. It is basically about two brothers who go out and play cowboys and then go home to mum. Why would you write that book? Why would it make the Booker longlist. I do not know but I am glad he did and glad it did. 8/10
The Sense of an Ending
by Julian Barnes
A short novel of 150 pages but none the less compelling for all that. All the way through the book the narrator was being told he did not understand and even when made clear at the end it took me a while to understand. This was great story telling and I would give it the Booker now so that probably means it won't make the shortlist! Still a good book though 8/10
The Stranger's Child
by Alan Hollinghurst
This is a fascinating book with its wide sweep of twentieth century Britain and the effects of a gay war poets relationships with a Cambridge friend and his sister on their immediate families and those who came after. It works best in the early parts of the book I felt but all in all, and to use a technical term, it was lush! 8/10
Saturday, August 13, 2011
An Uncertain Place
by Fred Vargas
Another enjoyable crime novel with Adamsberg. If I say it involves chasing vampires it would give the wrong idea. It is a search for a serial killer very firmly set in the modern day, but it still has the delightful quirkiness which is so attractive in this series. This one was slightly off the pace of some of the others I have read 7/10
Another enjoyable crime novel with Adamsberg. If I say it involves chasing vampires it would give the wrong idea. It is a search for a serial killer very firmly set in the modern day, but it still has the delightful quirkiness which is so attractive in this series. This one was slightly off the pace of some of the others I have read 7/10
Beyond Suspicion
by Tanguy Viel
A short thriller translated from french. It was very well written and could easily be read at one sitting. Mind you, I hated the ending 7/10
A short thriller translated from french. It was very well written and could easily be read at one sitting. Mind you, I hated the ending 7/10
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Paris Trance
by Geoff Dyer
This is a novel set in Paris and covering the lives of 4 twenty-somethings discovering life and each other. It is amusing in places, but generally covered a way of life I found it hard to connect with and yet still seemed rather predictable. However, I did like Spunky the dog! 6/10
This is a novel set in Paris and covering the lives of 4 twenty-somethings discovering life and each other. It is amusing in places, but generally covered a way of life I found it hard to connect with and yet still seemed rather predictable. However, I did like Spunky the dog! 6/10
The Invention of Paris
by Eric Hazan
Subtitled A history in Footsteps this a great book covering the history of various quarters of Paris and how it has developed into today's city. From the broad sweep to the intricate details this is a great book that makes you want to get back to the city and start exploring immediately. One word of advice. Unless you know the city really well it is useful-and will probably add to your enjoyment-if you have a map/street atlas close by. 8/10
Subtitled A history in Footsteps this a great book covering the history of various quarters of Paris and how it has developed into today's city. From the broad sweep to the intricate details this is a great book that makes you want to get back to the city and start exploring immediately. One word of advice. Unless you know the city really well it is useful-and will probably add to your enjoyment-if you have a map/street atlas close by. 8/10
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
A Visit from the Goon Squad
by Jennifer Egan
The Goon Squad is time and this is a novel about time and its passing and it deals with time in the way that time deals with us. That is, moving at different speeds -sometimes fast sometimes slow. I felt the technical skills in this book outweighed the story at times but a thought provoking book. Didn't enjoy the last chapter. 6/10
The Goon Squad is time and this is a novel about time and its passing and it deals with time in the way that time deals with us. That is, moving at different speeds -sometimes fast sometimes slow. I felt the technical skills in this book outweighed the story at times but a thought provoking book. Didn't enjoy the last chapter. 6/10
Miss Smilla's Feeling for Snow
by Peter Hoeg
I really enjoyed the first two thirds of this book but feel that it then started to lose its way. Probably all that snow! Still an enjoyable read 6/10
I really enjoyed the first two thirds of this book but feel that it then started to lose its way. Probably all that snow! Still an enjoyable read 6/10
Sunday, April 24, 2011
The Invisible Woman
by Clare Tomalin
This was a fascinating biography and commentary on how history can be manipulated. It leaves many questions unanswered, not least being what did Ellen Ternan think of Dickens and her relationship with him, but this in itself is comment on how difficult this book was to write. 8/10
This was a fascinating biography and commentary on how history can be manipulated. It leaves many questions unanswered, not least being what did Ellen Ternan think of Dickens and her relationship with him, but this in itself is comment on how difficult this book was to write. 8/10
Sunday, March 20, 2011
When God was a Rabbit
by Sarah Winman
This is a first novel and it sometimes showed in the lack of character depth and some of the descriptive passages. However, this book made me laugh (out loud belly laughter) and it made me cry and it made me think. What more can you ask of a novel. I really enjoyed it. 8/10
This is a first novel and it sometimes showed in the lack of character depth and some of the descriptive passages. However, this book made me laugh (out loud belly laughter) and it made me cry and it made me think. What more can you ask of a novel. I really enjoyed it. 8/10
The Museum of Innocence
by Orhan Pamuk
What can I say about this most exasperating of books. One it is very long. Two, it focusses on one man's pain following the break up of a relationship, and when I use the word focus I mean with the intensity of a magnifying glass on a hot summers day. This is painful at times and there was more than one occassion I wished our hero narrator dead so we could all move on with our lives.Having said that this is beautifully written and leaves me longing to visit Istanbul. The ending is signalled from page 1 and yet still surprises when you get there. I slated this book for all the time I was reading it and yet I think it will live with me for longer than other books I have read. 7/10
What can I say about this most exasperating of books. One it is very long. Two, it focusses on one man's pain following the break up of a relationship, and when I use the word focus I mean with the intensity of a magnifying glass on a hot summers day. This is painful at times and there was more than one occassion I wished our hero narrator dead so we could all move on with our lives.Having said that this is beautifully written and leaves me longing to visit Istanbul. The ending is signalled from page 1 and yet still surprises when you get there. I slated this book for all the time I was reading it and yet I think it will live with me for longer than other books I have read. 7/10
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Faceless Killers
by Henning Mankell
An early Wallender and a good crime novel. I felt the linking of the two seperate plots was a bit contrived but the Wallender character is deliciously seedy! 7/10
An early Wallender and a good crime novel. I felt the linking of the two seperate plots was a bit contrived but the Wallender character is deliciously seedy! 7/10
Squirrel seeks chipmunk
by David Sedaris
A very mixed bag. Some of these are very funny, some are very dark and ssome are just not very good. It is a great bedside book though. 5/10
A very mixed bag. Some of these are very funny, some are very dark and ssome are just not very good. It is a great bedside book though. 5/10
Out Stealing Horses
by Per Petterson
This is a very gentle book but with an underlying tension. It is a melancholic look back at a man's early life and how it is shaping and impacting his later life. We learn nothing, or very little of the bit in between but it does not matter. I enjoyed it very much 8/10
This is a very gentle book but with an underlying tension. It is a melancholic look back at a man's early life and how it is shaping and impacting his later life. We learn nothing, or very little of the bit in between but it does not matter. I enjoyed it very much 8/10
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Seraphita
bu Honoré de Balzac
If this was the first Balzac novel I had ever read it would be my last. There is no plot to speak of and is actually just a religious pamphlet in praise of Emmanuel Swedenborg. Utter crap 1/10 no make that 0/10
If this was the first Balzac novel I had ever read it would be my last. There is no plot to speak of and is actually just a religious pamphlet in praise of Emmanuel Swedenborg. Utter crap 1/10 no make that 0/10
Freedom
by Jonathan Franzen
This was a great book and one of the few that left me close to tears at the end. It is a story of modern life I guess and how personal lives intrude on our ideologies 9/10
This was a great book and one of the few that left me close to tears at the end. It is a story of modern life I guess and how personal lives intrude on our ideologies 9/10
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The General
by Jonathan Fenby
A very good biography of Charles de Gaulle with a great balance between the personal, private man and the statesman. 8/10
A very good biography of Charles de Gaulle with a great balance between the personal, private man and the statesman. 8/10
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The Finkler Question
by Howard Jacobson
Very amusing in parts, boring in others and fascinating in others. He is as in touch with the human condition as any writer I have come across 8/10
Very amusing in parts, boring in others and fascinating in others. He is as in touch with the human condition as any writer I have come across 8/10
Our Kind of Traitor
by John Le Carre
Le Carre on good form but with an ending that seemed inevitable for a Le Carre hero. Enjoyed it though 7/10
Le Carre on good form but with an ending that seemed inevitable for a Le Carre hero. Enjoyed it though 7/10
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Elephant's Journey
by José Saramago
Written by a nobel prize winning Portuguese writer this is a fantastic story of an elephant's journey from Lisbon to Vienna in the 16th century. I loved it, especially the narrator's quirky asides. 9/10
Written by a nobel prize winning Portuguese writer this is a fantastic story of an elephant's journey from Lisbon to Vienna in the 16th century. I loved it, especially the narrator's quirky asides. 9/10
The Glass Room
by Simon Mawer
The story of a house, based on a real house in Brno, this is a fascinating story of the Czech Republic from the mid 1920's to the 1960's which I found really absorbing. 8/10
The story of a house, based on a real house in Brno, this is a fascinating story of the Czech Republic from the mid 1920's to the 1960's which I found really absorbing. 8/10
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Death in the Latin Quarter
by Raphael Cardetti
Set in Paris this is a fast paced mystery thriller involving book restorers and shady secret service personnel from around the world. A great holiday read that is fun and not too taxing. 6/10
Set in Paris this is a fast paced mystery thriller involving book restorers and shady secret service personnel from around the world. A great holiday read that is fun and not too taxing. 6/10
Ordinary Thunderstorms
by William Boyd
Enjoyed the premise of this book of a man who has his identity taken from him by being in the wrong place at the wrong time,. However it seemed to lose its way and the ending was disappointing. 5/10
Enjoyed the premise of this book of a man who has his identity taken from him by being in the wrong place at the wrong time,. However it seemed to lose its way and the ending was disappointing. 5/10
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Silence
by Shusaka Endo
This story of a missionary priest in the seventeenth century going off to Japan did not do a lot for me. 4/10
This story of a missionary priest in the seventeenth century going off to Japan did not do a lot for me. 4/10
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Oranges are not the only fruit
by Jeanette Winterson
Very funny in places and very reminiscent in parts of my youth. Felt the last 40 pages or so lost their way but 25 years on this is still agood read. 7/10
Very funny in places and very reminiscent in parts of my youth. Felt the last 40 pages or so lost their way but 25 years on this is still agood read. 7/10
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Kindly Ones
by Jonathan Littell
Where do I begin. It was the best of books; it was the worst of books. One thing is certain you cannot be indifferent to this book. It is the fictional autobiography of Max Aue, an intellectual who was a SS officer during the second war. He recounts his experiences from the relative safety of sixty years after the event when he is a respectable owner of a lace factory in France. The narrative is compelling as it recounts not only the history of WWII but the intimate enjoyment and pain of one man's experience. It is hard going though with some very harrowing scenes. I also found the detail of the SS and German heirarchy difficult to follow, even with a glossary at the end of the book. This is a book that will live with me for some time yet. 8/10
Where do I begin. It was the best of books; it was the worst of books. One thing is certain you cannot be indifferent to this book. It is the fictional autobiography of Max Aue, an intellectual who was a SS officer during the second war. He recounts his experiences from the relative safety of sixty years after the event when he is a respectable owner of a lace factory in France. The narrative is compelling as it recounts not only the history of WWII but the intimate enjoyment and pain of one man's experience. It is hard going though with some very harrowing scenes. I also found the detail of the SS and German heirarchy difficult to follow, even with a glossary at the end of the book. This is a book that will live with me for some time yet. 8/10
Sunday, April 04, 2010
Indemnity Only
by Sara Paretsky
This book, first published in 1982, introduces the detective V. I. Warshawski. She is a Chicago based private investigator who has gone on to feature in numerous subsequent investigations set in the city.
This first novel starts with somebody employing Warshawski by pretending to be a wealthy banker and sending her off on a hunt that results in her finding the body of the bankers son. Despite being warned off numerous times, she pursues the case, involving fraud, murder and corruption to an exciting end. As an aside it is fascinating to read a “modern” detective who is set pre mobile phones, pre internet and who is debating whether an IBM desktop computer would be any help in her office.
The character of VI is well built and it is not hard to see why she has continued to attract readers in her subsequent adventures. The plot in this novel stretches credibility to breaking point at times, particularly in the final showdown scene. I also found most of the characters-with the exception of VI –very two dimensional but such is the nature of the genre. If you enjoy a good crime caper this is a fun read.
This book, first published in 1982, introduces the detective V. I. Warshawski. She is a Chicago based private investigator who has gone on to feature in numerous subsequent investigations set in the city.
This first novel starts with somebody employing Warshawski by pretending to be a wealthy banker and sending her off on a hunt that results in her finding the body of the bankers son. Despite being warned off numerous times, she pursues the case, involving fraud, murder and corruption to an exciting end. As an aside it is fascinating to read a “modern” detective who is set pre mobile phones, pre internet and who is debating whether an IBM desktop computer would be any help in her office.
The character of VI is well built and it is not hard to see why she has continued to attract readers in her subsequent adventures. The plot in this novel stretches credibility to breaking point at times, particularly in the final showdown scene. I also found most of the characters-with the exception of VI –very two dimensional but such is the nature of the genre. If you enjoy a good crime caper this is a fun read.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Parrot and Olivier
by Peter Carey
Carey is a fantastic storyteller and this is no exception. This is a crazy tale inspired by Tocqueville but covers Paris and Dartmoor as well as America itself. It is littered with amusing characters and tall story scenes. Good fun 8/10
Carey is a fantastic storyteller and this is no exception. This is a crazy tale inspired by Tocqueville but covers Paris and Dartmoor as well as America itself. It is littered with amusing characters and tall story scenes. Good fun 8/10
Alone in Berlin
by Hans Fallada
This book took me by surprise. The story is in many ways a simple one of a couple whose son is killed at the front during the second world war. They start a campaign of dropping postcards denouncing Hitler. Somehow the inevitable ending is moved towards with tremendous suspense and an engagement with the characters. The best book I have read so far in 2010 9/10
This book took me by surprise. The story is in many ways a simple one of a couple whose son is killed at the front during the second world war. They start a campaign of dropping postcards denouncing Hitler. Somehow the inevitable ending is moved towards with tremendous suspense and an engagement with the characters. The best book I have read so far in 2010 9/10
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Berlin Tales
Edited and translated by Lyn Marven
This is a collection of short stories with Berlin as a unifying theme. They range from excellent-Evenings after six by Kurt Tucholsky- to very poor. The photos at the start of each story are a real treat. 2/10
This is a collection of short stories with Berlin as a unifying theme. They range from excellent-Evenings after six by Kurt Tucholsky- to very poor. The photos at the start of each story are a real treat. 2/10
Saturday, February 13, 2010
The Outsider
by Albert Camus
A fascinating short novel by one of France's most revered writers. Set in his native Algeirs this is a fascinating story that reminds me of a line from Eliot. Humankind cannot face too much reality or words to that effect. It is a fascinating read that left me asking questions about how I would react in similar circumstances-although I cannot envisage killing a man- and what are the things that should provoke a reaction in us. 7/10
A fascinating short novel by one of France's most revered writers. Set in his native Algeirs this is a fascinating story that reminds me of a line from Eliot. Humankind cannot face too much reality or words to that effect. It is a fascinating read that left me asking questions about how I would react in similar circumstances-although I cannot envisage killing a man- and what are the things that should provoke a reaction in us. 7/10
Solea
by Jean-Claude Izzo
This is the final book in the Marseilles trilogy featuring the ex cop Fabio Montale. I can't put my finger on what makes this series so good. It could be the worn down, flawed humanity of the central character, it could be the flawed and yet beautiful city of Marseilles that features as a central character in the book, it could be the thriller that runs as almost secondary story throughout. Whatever it is I found all three of the books really enjoyable as they moved slowly to the ineviatable conclusion. 10/10
This is the final book in the Marseilles trilogy featuring the ex cop Fabio Montale. I can't put my finger on what makes this series so good. It could be the worn down, flawed humanity of the central character, it could be the flawed and yet beautiful city of Marseilles that features as a central character in the book, it could be the thriller that runs as almost secondary story throughout. Whatever it is I found all three of the books really enjoyable as they moved slowly to the ineviatable conclusion. 10/10
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Smile or Die
by Barbara Ehrenreich
A swipe at the positive thinking industry in America with some reference to the rest of us.
I found the book quite heavy on evidence but would have liked more reasoning as to why positive thinking is not a good thing. An interesting thought provoking read all the same. 6/10
A swipe at the positive thinking industry in America with some reference to the rest of us.
I found the book quite heavy on evidence but would have liked more reasoning as to why positive thinking is not a good thing. An interesting thought provoking read all the same. 6/10
Sunday, January 17, 2010
The Girl who kicked the hornet's nest
by Stieg Larsson
The final part of the Salander trilogy and like the previous two ploughs on at an unrelenting rate. As with any series like this there is an element of repitition for those who need a reminder of where we have got to and this makes the book too long. It is a great yarn though!8/10
The final part of the Salander trilogy and like the previous two ploughs on at an unrelenting rate. As with any series like this there is an element of repitition for those who need a reminder of where we have got to and this makes the book too long. It is a great yarn though!8/10
Wolf Hall
by Hilary Mantel
This Booker Prize winning novel plots the life of Thomas Cromwell-an advisor to Henry VIII. Its detail is remarkable but I never got caught up in the story although the characters were remarkably well drawn and the scope extensive. I can see why it won the prize but I would have chosen AS Byatt above this. 7/10
This Booker Prize winning novel plots the life of Thomas Cromwell-an advisor to Henry VIII. Its detail is remarkable but I never got caught up in the story although the characters were remarkably well drawn and the scope extensive. I can see why it won the prize but I would have chosen AS Byatt above this. 7/10
Monday, December 14, 2009
My Days of Adventure
by E A Vizetelly
This is a book written by a well known journalist and publisher of Zola in 1913 and relating his experiences of being in France at the time of the franco-prussian war in 1870-1. The language is rather dated and I found some of the military detail a little too detailed but the book was very interesting when describing the situation and atmosphere in Paris as the war progressed. 6/10
This is a book written by a well known journalist and publisher of Zola in 1913 and relating his experiences of being in France at the time of the franco-prussian war in 1870-1. The language is rather dated and I found some of the military detail a little too detailed but the book was very interesting when describing the situation and atmosphere in Paris as the war progressed. 6/10
Fair Play
by Tove Jansson
This is a short novel that I found totally absorbing about two women living together on an island. Nothing much happens but you are drawn in to their story in a gentle way that made you want to sit down and watch a film with them. 8/10
This is a short novel that I found totally absorbing about two women living together on an island. Nothing much happens but you are drawn in to their story in a gentle way that made you want to sit down and watch a film with them. 8/10
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Any Human Heart
by William Boyd
This life of Logan Mountstuart covers the twentieth century but is less a recap of the history of this period as it is a story of the human condition. The ageing process is movingly handled and as with the whole book shines with life affirming humour. Graet book 9/10
This life of Logan Mountstuart covers the twentieth century but is less a recap of the history of this period as it is a story of the human condition. The ageing process is movingly handled and as with the whole book shines with life affirming humour. Graet book 9/10
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Footprints in Paris
by Gillian Tindall
This is a very readable book covering far more than a few streets in Paris.
You can still feel pain and hurt shouting from some pages but a far louder voice is the connection of memories across family histories and physical space. 7/10
This is a very readable book covering far more than a few streets in Paris.
You can still feel pain and hurt shouting from some pages but a far louder voice is the connection of memories across family histories and physical space. 7/10
Saturday, November 07, 2009
The Quickening Maze
by Adam Foulds
This book is about John Clare and Tennyson and the Doctor who treated John Care during his first period of madness. It is written by a poet and the language is in places, beautifully poetic. I enjoyed it although working out the changes in story narrative took some doing at times but added to the enjoyment. 8/10
This book is about John Clare and Tennyson and the Doctor who treated John Care during his first period of madness. It is written by a poet and the language is in places, beautifully poetic. I enjoyed it although working out the changes in story narrative took some doing at times but added to the enjoyment. 8/10
Saturday, October 31, 2009
The Little Stranger
by Sarah Waters
Set in the period just after the second war this book is a strange mix of ghost story, social history, touch of romance and thriller. I felt it got a bit bogged down about half way through but then picked up the pace again. As ever, the writing is beautiful and a joy to read and the ending was as good as it was -for me-unexpected 8/10
Set in the period just after the second war this book is a strange mix of ghost story, social history, touch of romance and thriller. I felt it got a bit bogged down about half way through but then picked up the pace again. As ever, the writing is beautiful and a joy to read and the ending was as good as it was -for me-unexpected 8/10
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Girl Who Played with Fire
by Stieg Larsson
This has been a very hyped book and is the second in the Millenium trilogy. Much of the hype is driven by the fact we know that this is it as Larsson died soon after completing this trilogy.
This is a thriller that in my view falls into the same camp as The Da Vinci Code. That is it is a highly charged fast moving plot that keeps you up at night just to find out what is going to happen. That said the first 100 pages were dull and floated around recaps of the last book and badly written sketchy details of the characters sexual leanings. However, once the story commences the next 500 pages are non-stop.
The language is not that of a literary masterpiece and I found it grating and a little nausea inducing at times, but putting that aside I enjoy a good easy read like this and will read the final book in the trilogy, which the ending this book definitely makes almost obligatory! 7/10
This has been a very hyped book and is the second in the Millenium trilogy. Much of the hype is driven by the fact we know that this is it as Larsson died soon after completing this trilogy.
This is a thriller that in my view falls into the same camp as The Da Vinci Code. That is it is a highly charged fast moving plot that keeps you up at night just to find out what is going to happen. That said the first 100 pages were dull and floated around recaps of the last book and badly written sketchy details of the characters sexual leanings. However, once the story commences the next 500 pages are non-stop.
The language is not that of a literary masterpiece and I found it grating and a little nausea inducing at times, but putting that aside I enjoy a good easy read like this and will read the final book in the trilogy, which the ending this book definitely makes almost obligatory! 7/10
Sunday, October 04, 2009
The Children's Book
by AS Byatt
A long gentle sweep of english artistic middle class history from late 19th century to the end of the first world war. Interwoven with this is a taut story of a large cast of characters and their triumphs and tragedies. This is not a happy book but it is beautifully written and a joy to read 9/10
A long gentle sweep of english artistic middle class history from late 19th century to the end of the first world war. Interwoven with this is a taut story of a large cast of characters and their triumphs and tragedies. This is not a happy book but it is beautifully written and a joy to read 9/10
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