Read whatever, whenever, however.
A busy week where I didn't even realise that I didn't get any book mail! I made some purchases of my own on the weekend though: The Roxy Letters by Mary Pauline Lowry is an epistolary novel between Roxy and her ex-boyfriend/roommate Everett. Roxy's life is generally underwhelming but when gentrification takes over Austin, she... Continue Reading →
In brief: Kino and Juana live a poor but happy life. When Kino finds 'the Pearl of the World', their fortunes change, but not for the better. The good: An enjoyable story that is very visual in its telling. The not-so-good: Somewhat predictable ending. Why I chose it: Enjoying making my way through Steinbeck's works.... Continue Reading →
In brief: A terrorist attack on a train has wide-ranging consequences for three individuals. Who will rise and who will fall? The good: Very well written with some confronting moral dilemmas. The not-so-good: Exposes that life really isn't fair – so much depends on other things. Why I chose it: Sounded like something I would... Continue Reading →
We've been doing our spring cleaning a little early here, despite apparently being in the depths of winter! Stuff is everywhere, including books. That doesn't stop me adding to the pile though – If I Can't Have You by Charlotte Levin (available 14th July) arrived from Pan Macmillan. Constance develops an infatuation with a colleague,... Continue Reading →
In brief: When Lucie meets George in Capri, she dislikes him intensely. Until she doesn't. Years later, George reappears on the scene but Lucie is happily engaged, right? The good: Lovely to indulge in some decadence and armchair travel. The not-so-good: Cecil. I really want to smack him, but I don't think that will help…... Continue Reading →
In brief: Tokunaga is trying to make as a comedian. When he meets Kamiya, he asks Kamiya to mentor him. Over the years, Tokunaga learns from Kamiya but it's not always the lesson intended. The good: In-depth, shocking and sweet. The not-so-good: A fairly short read. Why I chose it: I love Japanese fiction. Year:... Continue Reading →
I've been doing a lot of moving of books around the house due to painting and wow, they can be a great workout. I've rediscovered a lot of fantastic ones to read, but which one first? I received one book in the mail and bought two as this windy picture shows: Stars Over the Southern... Continue Reading →
In brief: Why racism and who leads discussions on racism matter – from history to class and feminism. The good: Very well written with an extensive bibliography to read further. The not-so-good: I felt uncomfortable at times recognising when I have not acted in calling out racism or letting white privilege take over. Why I... Continue Reading →
In brief: Kim Jiyoung is a woman who others think has a problem. But a look at her life suggests that it's society with the problem. The good: Powerful read. The not-so-good: A quick read. Why I chose it: I like reading fiction from Asia. Year: 2020 (originally published 2016 in Korean) Pages: 163 Translator:... Continue Reading →
