Book project update #6

Here's what I've been reading this fortnight. It's an eclectic list, to say the least...

Eats, shoots and leaves by Lynne Truss
Who would have a thought a book about punctuation and its correct usage would be so amusing? If I didn’t hate “text-speak” I’d say LOL.

Monday Mourning by Kathy Reichs
‘dem bones, ‘dem bones, ‘dem dry bones... Are the bones discovered in a pizza parlour basement as old as they appear at first glance or is there something sinister going on in the here and now? Forensic anthropologist Tempe Brennan investigates in the face of opposition from her male colleagues. These books are meticulously researched and always enjoyable.

The arsonists guide to writers’ homes in New England by Brock Clarke
This is a delightfully screwball and unpredictable romp that had me giggling on the train. Anti-hero Sam Pulsifer, having served several years in prison for accidentally burning down Emily Dickinson’s house, is a “bumbler”, lurching from one disaster after another after his release, with hilarious results.

Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr
Personally I think spelling fairy “faerie” should be a punishable offence (The defendant has been found guilty of first degree pretentiousness, m’lud) but I enjoyed this tale of shadowy and sinister fairies and the mortals drawn into their world, temptation and unexpected consequences. Anyone expecting Tinkerbell and fairy dust will be disappointed.

The President’s Wife by Thea Welsh
This was one of a bag full of “airport reads” my frequent traveller friend Annabel gave me before my recent trip to Beijing and it fulfilled the brief admirably. I’m hesitant to use the words light and fluffy, because I enjoyed this so much, so let’s say it was light, fluffy and enjoyable.


Gone Tomorrow by Lee Child
Another from my donated airport reading bag, I read this mostly on the flight back from Beijing. Light and fluffy however is not the vibe here; this is a dark and disturbing ride. I’ve read a Jack Reacher novel previously but this one makes me think I should hunt out the other nine or 10 in the series. (Only about eight more airport-appropriate reads to go – I need more trips!)

The men who stare at goats by Jon Ronson
After seeing the trailer for the movie based on this book I got the idea it was a comedy; after reading this book I’m convinced the real life US military operation its based on was an absolute farce. The story goes that in 1979 a secret unit was established by the US army to train a force of psychic “super” soldiers, believing men could pass through walls, adopt a cloak of invisibility and kill goats by steering at them. What’s more, investigative reporter Ronson says the same core philosophy behind the program is being used in the War on Terror. Ahem... An interesting, if totally wacky “true” story!