Books, books, books.

I thought people might be vaguely interested in what I: a) have read recently  b) am reading at the moment c) am planning to read in the near future.

 a)  I’ve read a few books recently, and they’ve all been most enjoyable.  I’ll mention the most recent 3 - Red Tears by Jo Kenrick ,  Hunky Dory by Jean Ure and The Falconer’s Knot by Mary Hoffman

 Red Tears is a modern day story of a young girl beset by the many pressures of teenage life as she approaches her GCSEs.  Poor relationships at home and at school lead her in a downward spiral into depression and ultimately to begin a disturbing pattern of self-harming.  If I stopped my description there, the book would sound all gloom and doom, but this would be far from the truth.  I found this a disturbing read, but a positive one with a realistic message.  Jo Kenrick does not dish the reader up with a sickly sweet ‘happily ever after’ ending, but neither does she leave the reader feeling without hope for those who have fallen into this behaviour pattern.  The book left me feeling ‘There but for the grace of God went I …’ as I identified with many of the pressures that the main character underwent, but also with a far greater understanding and sympathy for those who are led down this path.  Suitable for age 14+

 Hunky Dory was a light, fluffy read for pre-adolescent girls that gave me more than a few reasons to smile.  Jean Ure is a great observer of character, with a gentle wit and a writing style that has your eyes all but dancing across the pages.  I did feel a little self-conscious reading this book as I sat in the local kebab shop waiting to be served.  At one point I was on the phone to someone as a couple came into the shop.  The lady looked at the book on my lap and gave me a big grin as she mouthed the title at me.  I wish I could have explained why I was reading it, but alas I was not given the opportunity!  I had lunch with Jean yesterday and felt I should go armed with the knowledge of at least one of her many titles.  It wasn’t my usual choice of reading material, but I won’t deny enjoying it before passing it on to my daughter.  Suitable for 9+

 The Falconer’s Knot was without doubt one of the best books written for the young adult market that I’ve read in many years.  I’ve already reviewed the book on Chronicles Network, so you can see what I thought of it here.  A great read for 12+.

 What I’m reading now:  The Stone Testament by Celia Rees.

I have now finished The Stone Testament - you can see my review here: The Stone Testament  Another great read for 12+.

What I’m reading next: Piper by Meg Harper

The Stravaganza Books by Mary Hoffman - Having discovered her work by reading The Falconer’s Knot I’m now going to overdose!!!

The Black Tattoo by Sam Enthoven