Bookworms – Summer 2021

Bookworms are invited to read the following books over the next 3 months, sharing their reviews by email, during the last week of each month. We decided to write as briefly or extensively as we felt able, also sharing other books we had read recently. The emphasis is on an informal, relaxed approach, during such a difficult time.

May 27th – ‘The Elegance of the Hedgehog‘ by Muriel Barbery,  a highly regarded portrayal of a Parisienne concierge, who, despite all appearances, is a cultured, intelligent woman, who secretly despises the wealthy inhabitants of the apartments. Intriguing and insightful, perhaps controversial too.

June 24th – I offer a choice this month, both Italian authors; either ‘My Brilliant Friend‘ by Elena Ferrante, the first of her Neopolitan Quartet, again, very well regarded. This is the portrayal of the intense friendship between two girls, set in post-war Naples, and covers a wide spectrum of social issues, recommended by Irene. Alternatively, ‘The Path to the Spiders’ Nest‘ by Italo Calvino. This is an unusual story set in World War II, and concerns the Italian resistance movement, but so much more too, again with reference to relationships and issues around loyalty.

July 29th – Hopefully, we should be able to meet in person this month, for our first, celebratory meeting.

The book for this month will be ‘The Whistling Season‘ by Ivan Doig. It has been described as a ‘heart warming story’ set in the 20th century in Montana, and it is another coming of age description of three boys, growing up without their mother, and the struggles of their Father to cope, with the help of an amazing housekeeper! The story has some very unexpected twists, and the references to a passing way of life are poignant. It really is an enriching book, and one that many state they are sad to finish.

So, I do hope that if you choose to join with us, you will enjoy this next selection of books.

Jenny Pestridge