Wednesday 20 February 2013

52 books 14

14. Daddy-long-legs  by Jean Webster

I rediscovered this book first published in 1912, whilst clearing my fathers house. I remembered reading it in my childhood so decided to read it again. The theme of the rich, older dominant male figure and the young innocent girl, (fifty shades of grey) in this case an orphan doesn't seem to have changed much over the years, though this was written in a much more innocent age.The subjugation of women also seems to be a recurring theme (miss chopsticks and fifty shades) . I enjoyed the fact that this is written entirely in the form of letters from Judy to her unknown benefactor, and the liberally scattered literary references throughout the book. As a piece of social history it was also fascinating.

Sunday 17 February 2013

52 books 13

13. Miss Chopsticks by Xinran

Chinese culture and traditions, the transition from a life of hardship in the country to the perils of life in a big city, the low status of women and lack of education, poverty,  naivety and pain and heartwarming friendship and support in difficult times. This is an inspirational, moving and fascinating story of three sisters and the changes in modern China and Chinese views of Westerners.

Saturday 16 February 2013

52 books 12

12.  The Shadow Rising by Robert Jordan

Book four of the Wheel of Time. An epic read! 1001 pages!  Three strands of the pattern woven in three separate stories and interwoven in the struggle against overwhelming odds a heartwarming love story. Great fantasy writing. My next read will be something completely different.

Friday 15 February 2013

52 books 11

11.  The cat in the hat by Dr. Seuss

 For my niece who's seven, I bought this book
and couldn't resist to have a quick look
A classic, totally written in rhyme
enchanting story, a book for all time

Friday 8 February 2013

52 books 10

10.  The Mystical Mirror by Peter Killick

I received a complimentary copy of this authors first novel for young adults. This is great storytelling in the classic tradition of good versus evil. The young heroine Erica was a captivating character, the villains were indeed dastardly. The story was engaging and even made me cry.The editing could have been slightly improved but I really enjoyed reading this and could easily imagine this as a great family film.

Tuesday 5 February 2013

52 books 9

9.  The safe house by Nicci French

I bought this from a charity sale. A psychological thriller with some twists and turns but I didn't feel emotionally involved with the characters. The ending was unexpected ,chilling and disturbing .I'm not quite sure how I feel about this book. Reviews on Amazon ranged right across the ratings.

Friday 1 February 2013

52 books 8

8.  The Dragon Reborn by Robert Jordan

Book three of the wheel of time. As engrossing as the first two books. I now have to wait until I see my sister for the next books in the series so book 9 will be a thriller I think!!