Books
Most of the books have generally been well received and we would especially like to recommend: ' The Day of the Triffids' (scarily understated which could easily be transposed to a contemporary setting); 'Maus' (which, despite its "comic book" lay-out, is a harrowing and poignant tale); 'Old Filth' (charming, funny and sad in equal measure); and 'The Inheritance of Loss' (which is so beautifully written).
The Uncommon Reader
A recent book read and discussed was 'The Uncommon Reader' by Alan Bennett. The premise of the story is that, whilst out walking the corgis in the grounds of Buckingham Palace, the Queen unexpectedly comes across the local Mobile Library van. From this point she is 'hooked on' reading, a past-time she has never previously given much thought to.
The broad range of books she reads begins to change her view of the world, which up 'til now she has never questioned, much to the consternation of her Pime Minister and his advisors, and her own Courtiers and family. We loved this book!! It is funny, gentle and respectful, with a lovely twist in the tale at its finale.