from the library

Finished Amanda Eyre Ward's how to be lost last night. Frustrated. Not because it wasn't good. Oh no. It was a lovely read, but Ward was crafty enough to stop the story just as it reached its crescendo. We do know what happens, but unfortunately, we aren't invited for the final pay-off. Which is frustrating considering how involved I got over the course of the book. And then to be denied that last reward - very clever indeed. Will definitely be picking up more books by this pretty woman. (yes, of course, I googled her)

Am now officially booker updated. If of course, you don't count the large chunks from the 80s, 90s and 00s - well every decade - that i've missed. What I mean is I've at least gotten around to reading the last two. 08 and 07. Arvind Adiga's The White Tiger and Anne Enright's The gathering. The White Tiger was an interesting tale at least, marred by two things - I thought the writing pedestrian and the concept very pandering. Although there is a very true and resounding note struck with the incident of the accident - for lack of a better way to put it. Sounds like that would really happen and it's a powerful moment in the book.

As I've mentioned elsewhere I love most things Irish. Here the story didnt feel new. Dysfunctional family - gathering at a time of crises - opening a can of worms - the abuse angle... her style however is a redeeming feature and the blurring of fact and fiction is nicely done. How many people, if at all, did the abuser mess with - this little ambiguity tucked away at the end that makes the story a lot more piquant.

Now on to Sea of Poppies - Amitav Ghosh. Read the opening page this morning, and thankfully, it doesnt seem as daunting as I thought.

We moved to our own home a few months back. And this has brought me of my biggest pleasures: to sit in my beautiful living room (or so I think) or well lit balcony on a saturday afternoon, with a cup of tea and a bowl of something crunchy, while my children are either asleep or playing below. What bliss.

Update: Amanda Eyre Ward has written for Salon. As always, amazed.