Sunday, January 12, 2014

good books

Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, 2013 is a really good book. Interesting to hear a Nigerian person's perspective on the US, and the UK and on Nigeria. Two main characters are really convincing. Really liked this book and want to read more by her. Liked the blog posts that were part of the story.

Am half way through The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt and am enjoying it a lot. Interesting story about Theo, lost boy, with his stolen painting. It's long but it does not feel too long. Well written, interesting characters. The painting is by Dutch master Carel Fabritius, and Theo's traumatic life begins on the day he acquires it.

Listened to about a third of Elizabeth George's new mystery and gave up; Just One Evil Act, 2013. Way too long and not interesting enough to keep going. Why doesn't she get an editor?

Also quit half way through Devoured by D E Meredith, although I may go back to it. Just not interested in histroical mystery right now.

Am nearly finished The Lost Carving by David Esterly, 2013. Very well written book about carving, about Gibbons, about working on the restoration after the disastrous fire at Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace which burnt some of the Gibbon's carving. The book meanders off into philisphical and literary and artistic thoughts (Esterley's area of study) but it is good.