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 →
It's cold. It's winter finally! Hence a little more reading got done – no way am I moving once I'm warm! (And why the photo was taken very quickly). Croc Country by Kerry McGinnis (available 2nd July) arrived from Penguin. finds young widow Tilly caring for injured wildlife. But when the police appear asking questions... Continue Reading →
