Recently read books

I have found myself running out of books a few times and having to pick up a book from a charity shop or bookshop or even the supermarket. As a result I have ended up with a couple maintream titles.

The Book of Lost Things - that one had a huge buzz but left me cold. It’s a good book, in the magical realism vein, but I have read lots of books of this genre and this one isnt quite as compelling as others. I think the buzz comes from people not used to reading that genre. Still, it is not a bad book at all, and the tone is at times delightful.

Half of a Yellow Sun - will make you pause and think - after you have devoured it. I picked it up from Asda and boy am I glad. Well written, and a glimpse at the awful drama of Africa. This book follows a group of characters through the Biafra conflict, which I am too young to remember. It should makes you think a lot, as well, about what part europeans had in creating the messes in Africa.

The Kite Runner - that is a few years old and an intriguing book happening in Afganistan. A good book, although I did feel a bit manipulated by the drama, it was a bit over the top. It could very well be that the reality of Afganistan was over the top, though. A good read.

Anansi Boys - Neil gaiman tackles a trickster theme. Top notch light entertainment

A shepherd’s watch & the dogs of windcutter down - I picked those up from a National Trust store and they are a great read - a chronicle about sheep farming and a delightful read. Made me think, too, as I really think people should be able to make a decent living farming.