Ethiopia - a remote land

Dear All,

Just finished a travel book called The Chains of Heaven by Philip Marsden. Very fine writing. Describes a way of life completely alien to us in the West. Like travelling back five hundred years. Lives that revolve round God or Allah much as they used to here. A harsh and unforgiving life - also a simple life lived close to the elements.

Am now reading the book I got from Victoria in the Lucky Dip at Christmas - Just one Look by Harlan Coben

Julian

Emotions!

I guess this book could be described as bitter-sweet - some amusing avoidance of having sex (though honestly, why didn't he talk to Laura about his feelings about having children, silly man?), but heartbreaking to see the ravages of a debilitating illness such as Parkinson's. I did not expect to cry! I had expected to laugh, I remember I found the synopsis quite funny, but to cry, no, that ending came as a shock. Something I look forward to discussing in March...what would you have done? I won't say any more in case any of you haven't finished reading it.

Now on to a Sally Vicker's book - Mr Golightly's Holiday. I read one of her books ages ago, and am enjoying this one, although I think I've guessed the twist.

John Harding

Finished the book tonight and I am mightily impressed. It really is beautifully written. Deeply moving and completely without affectation. I would recommend this novel without reservation.

Thanks to Claire for bringing it to my notice