read any good books lately?

[Candy]

Hi everyone!
I was wondering what you are currently reading or have read recently and enjoyed? Having just read several by Joanne Harris (Chocolat and Blackberry Wine) and two history books by Giles Milton (Nathaniel's Nutmeg and Big Chief Elizabeth) I'm stuck for what to read next. Any suggestions much appreciated!

A friend has just started a book club in our village, she invited about 12 friends & we have only had one meeting so far, when we discussed what titles we would like to read - the majority vote went for Harry Potter for the first one (not my choice but willing to give it a go as so many adults do seem to like it).

We intend to meet once a month at each other's houses, sharing a glass of wine/coffee etc.

I enjoyed the opportunity to meet a completely new circle of women, I only knew three of them already so it is a good way to widen your friendships.

Pamina, I read Ruth Picardie's book while I was pregnant. Not a wise move. Like Robinw said about John Diamond, not a book to take pleasure in, but so admirable and brave and moving.
Xanthe, that sounds like a lot of fun. Good luck with setting it up. I think the local library is an excellent place to start.

Hi Girls

Thanks for all your suggestions about setting up a book club. I have now been through the whole of this thread and made a list of recommended books and authors to take with me to the library, so that I don't end up reading books by the same authors all the time.

I have read the John Diamond book and also Ruth Picardie - made me very sad as her children were so young. Without wishing to appear morbid I would really like to recommend a book called "Shadow in Tiger Country" by Louise and Tim Arthur. It's based on an internet diary that Louise kept after she was diagnosed with a brain tumour. The website is called shadowdiary.com. She writes so eloquently and honestly and the diary is a real testament to her courage. She too had a young daughter. The book is based on the diary and is co-authored by her husband. It was published after her death and although it is painful to read, it is a true love story. I found the book so moving and it is one that will make a lasting impression on me.

The Radio 4 website has details of how to set up a book club, I can't remember the address, but go to bbc.co.uk and do a search, we found it very useful.

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Ruth Picardies columns were amazing and would make one laugh an dcry in the same sentence. Her sister Justine has recently published 'if the spirit moves you' which is all about her search for understanding in the face of bereavement.

Another book that is heartbreaking but compelling is 'the diving bell and the butterfly' by jean-dominique bauby. Stunning...

Over xmas I read Billy by Pamela Stephenson about Billy Connolly of course, very funny a bit graphic at first, but very funny. I've also read the Harry Potter books which are an excellent read when you just want to relax. Terry Pratchet Discworld books are very good as well again very funny.

Am currently reading 'Charlotte Gray' which is about a woman who goes into France during the war as a secret agent and lives as another woman while she carries out secret activities. Also trying to find her pilot lover, missing presumed dead. Very good read and I hear that the film is coming out this month too.

Rozzy, the Archer book was a treat, even if you're not interested in politics. I kept grinning every time I was sitting on the bus reading it.

sounds good...I'm still trying to get into White Teeth by Zadie Smith, which everyone raves about...maybe I'm not in the mood for it.

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white teeth - hmm, it seems to me zadie smith owes salman rushdie a whole heap of royalties! not as good as everyone says IMO as highly derivative and the numerous period touches for historical authenticity seem to me very heavy handed... would be interesting to know what others think!

Have just read Ben Elton's 'Dead Famous' which I enjoyed despite never having watched any Big Brother (it's about reality TV). About to Start Rachel Cusk's A Life's work and Jenny Eclair's novel, thanks to the recommendation from someone here.

Bossykate, I read White Teeth and although I really enjoyed it, I realise it was mainly because of two characters I liked, and the fact that I grew up in the area its written around. I must admit that I found alot of the mousey/scientific bit deeply dull and sped read those sections. I am slightly amazed that they are making it into a film too! I recently read The Seige by Helen Dunmore. Its a really good read although a little disturbing, especially about the hardships suffered by the children of Lenningrad during the war. Also read 'The Dark Room' recently by Rachel Seiffert, really thought provoking stuff as it's about the war from the german perspective ( ie ; how families who were affiliated with the SS coped with the stigma and shame) very heart rending read. On a lighter note I also recently read (been doing alot of reading recently!) a new mum type novel by Jane Green, can't remember the title, but was good fun.

My book group read (and finished!) White Teeth. No one commented about a Salman Rushdie comparison, even though we had read, or tried to read one of his, just before. I'm now reading Ian McEwan's Atonement. So far, it's just brilliant - that feeling when you read the first page of a book and know you've made a discovery!

Have just come to the end of Peter Carey's 'True History of the Kelly Gang'. After I got used to the style of the prose, I found it fascinating. I love books which make you rethink your received wisdom on a subject. Also gave an insight into the tensions and inequalities affecting immigrants to Australia in the late 1700's.

Bossykate, White Teeth is one of the few books I've never finished. I enjoyed what I read OK but it ran out of steam, really. It might make a groovy TV series - a bit like Buddha of Suburbia maybe?
Jessi, I have just started and am really enjoying the Rachel Seiffert.
Winnie, I had forgotten about the Diving Bell and the Butterfly, meant to read it then forgot. Thanks for the reminder.
Anyone else feel like ringing up Jonathan Coe and subjecting him to a harrassment campaign until he finishes the follow-up to The Rotters' Club? I love that man so much.

I really enjoyed reading White Teeth - although I agree that the beginning was the best bit.

Has anyone else read "Welcome to the world, baby Girl" - can't remember author but it is a great book.

skim read "A Life's Work" last night and wasn't that impressed. I found the excerpts from books she was reading at the time tedious and the whole thing completely put me off having another baby (my ds is now 4 and I am thinking about it).

It was Fannie Flagg, sis. I have it but am yet to read it.

SueDonim, go on, read it, you won't regret it - it is very good. Not hard going on the braincells (I am just not into reading for intellectual stimulation - it is too much for my poor brain!) but with a really fascinating story to tell.