Wednesday, June 22, 2011

June reading


Have just finished reading The Novel in the Viola, the new book from Mr Rosenblum's List author Natasha Solomons. I'd recommend it as a bed book, winter's equivalent of a beach read; something to curl up and get lost in but whose plot I'll have completely forgotten in a month's time. It was like a great fling: fun while it lasted. (I think my brain is still affected by the WW2-era language. Who says fling?)

Next on my list is Linda Grant's The Thoughtful Dresser, something I've wanted to read for ages. I can't describe the premise any better than the blurb on the back: "...the thinking woman's guide to our relationship with what we wear..." This non-fiction subject has become its own mini genre over the last few years, and, when done well, it's engrossing, insightful, playful and poignant. When its not done well, it's more a superficial romp through someone's wardrobe, which doesn't interest me. Justine Picardie's 2006 My Mother's Wedding Dress was the first such book I picked up and I've been hooked ever since. I have high hopes for The Thoughtful Dresser as Grant is a Man Booker-prize shortlisted author.

Pia Jane Bijkerk's My Heart Wanders arrived in the post a week ago and I haven't got further than flicking through it yet. Looks pretty. Very pretty. Regardless of how the words will sound to my ears, it's a book I could enjoy for its looks alone.

If I could just crawl back into bed right now with a mug of hot chocolate...

5 comments:

  1. I'm always after recommendations for new books. Might have to add these to my list

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  2. Thanks for the book recommendations ...off to check them out.
    xo jana

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  3. All three sound rather tempting. Might need to add them to the list. I saw My Heart Wanders in our local bookstore and it does look very pretty indeed.

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  4. As I read this, I'm just finishing off a cup of hot chocolate with a pink marshmallow....so good!
    You should have one too.
    Ronnie xo

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  5. loved Mr Rosenbaums list, so will have to check out newest book. Love a great ready while curled up in bed

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