This is, undoubtedly, almost a really good book. I think the main clincher for me was that it’s set in the old country – Australia – so everything was familiar: the places I’d lived in and visited, the wildlife, culture, and, of course, the language. You really can’t beat Aussie vernacular for getting straight to... Continue Reading →
Pigeon English, by Stephen Kelman
While the last book I wrote a review for was described as undoubtedly almost a really good book, Stephen Kelman’s debut novel is undoubtedly a fabulous book. If it’s not on the prescribed reading list for schools in the very near future, something has gone entirely awry. Teachers, it’s time to relegate The Great Gatsby,... Continue Reading →
Over-detailed storytelling fatigue and Ashes Ashes by Jo Treggiari
I finished this last night, and my first thought after turning the last page was “At least it’s not a trilogy.” No spoilers - just a rant. Ashes Ashes is another YA dystopia featuring yet another spunky teenaged Katniss wannabe. Lucy has been surviving on her own and living off the land, but that’s about... Continue Reading →
The Independence of Miss Mary Bennet by Colleen McCullough
Few other writers have inspired the devotion of readers as deeply as Jane Austen, and there are a plethora of authors who have taken her novels and reworked them to the enjoyment or rage of her fans. Some are true to the spirit of Miss Austen, such as this year's "Death Comes to Pemblerley" by... Continue Reading →
Thunder Bay Public Library's Book Blog 