26ish books 2026

21 - Good People by Patmeena Sabit
I think I just read my best book of the year so far. Incredibly unique book told in a unique structure from multiple viewpoints. All the way through you keep changing your mind about the truth, and it is an incredible exploration of Islamophobia, media circuses and immigrant communities. I just got up early today to finish it! Highly recommended

29 The Disappearing Act of Esme Lennox - Maggie O’Farrell

picked this up in oxfam when I realised it’s one I haven’t read and it didn’t disappoint. Iris gets a call from a mental institution saying she is next of kin for a great-aunt she didn’t know she had, who has been institutionalised for 60 odd years. The story moves between several perspectives, Iris, Esme herself and the dementia ridden mind of her sister Kirsty as the unravelling of their childhoods and subsequent consequences take place

as ever brilliantly written, I boshed through it very quickly but didn’t want it to end. Does Maggie O’Farrell ever write anything not brilliant?!

14. A prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving I was feeling a bit uninspired with books to read so went for a re read and it didn’t disappoint! I first read this maybe 25 years ago and it has always held a place in my heart. But re reading it, it was even better. A very unique book set in New Hampshire in the 1950’s to late 60’s with some parts in the 80’s. It’s about 2 friends growing up together and basically explores fate, belief and if your life is already mapped out and all you do throughout your life has some kind of purpose. Or are you are in control of your own destiny? It’s not a quick read though, at 600+ pages which doesn’t seem too bad but it’s an intense read sprinkled with humour and loveliness too.

I don’t re read many books but i found i really had forgotten most of this one. So glad i went back to it.

@Citygirlrurallife love The disappearing act of Esme Lennox! Have you read Land yet?