Shy creatures – Clare Chambers
Several people recommended this to me in short succession. And how right they were!
A beautifully written novel with richly drawn characters. The book flits with ease between war-time 1940s Croydon and in the early 60s. The main character is Helen, an art therapist whose conscience is torn by the affair she is conducting with her married colleague. Things really get going when a mute man is discovered in a dilapidated house with a beard down to his waist. Family secrets are unearthed and relationships shift. Hugely enjoyable and superbly written.
When the Cranes Fly South – Lisa Ridzén
A superbly crafted book which focusses on elderly grandfather Bo as he struggles to keep looking after himself and his dog in rural Sweden. Family and carers do their best but Bo feels he is losing his autonomy. Portrays the difficulty men have in sharing their feelings and truths in such a poignant way. The flashes of memories, the reflections on life, this is a book rich in empathy.
Small Pleasures – Clare Chambers
1950s London – a 39 year old journalist who lives at home with her mother is tasked with investigating a woman’s claim that she had a virgin birth of her daughter. A beautifully observed novel, rich with carefully researched touches from the era, explores love and family through an intriguing plot. No spoilers but I’m not sure the ending was quite to my taste. I’m still ruminating on that. A good read, but I think Shy Creatures is the better book.
The Rest of Our Lives – Ben Markovits
A family prepares for their youngest child to leave for university. This was the moment when the narrator swore he would leave his unfaithful wife some 12 years before. The narrator departs on a road trip and we learn more about him and his family, how and why midlife has shaped the family to what they are today. A light read with poignant, well observed moments.
Jason Kitcat 