24 May 2021
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
A dramatic and turbulent love story, a wild and wilful heroine and more imagery than you can shake a stick at. Add to that, it inspired Kate Bush’s epic musical tribute of the same name. An absolute classic. No brainer.
Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild
The tale of 3 orphaned children, brought up by their guardian and a nanny - an aspiring actress, a shy adventurer, and a determined ballerina. Essentially a tale of women supporting women and defying the odds. Uplifting and charming; the original girl power. Just as enjoyable now as it was all those decades ago. A favourite in our family, loved by three generations.
The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
The colours. The simplicity. The over-eating. The ultimate tale of triumph. Everyone wants to be a butterfly.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Inspiration on every page and ‘unput-downable.’ As another woman’s story, I know that technically it is impossible for me to have written it, and I wouldn’t be me. But wait a minute… To be successful, stylish and incredibly intelligent as well as being married to Barack Obama? Hmmmm. I’ll take it.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
This story of a dystopian society played havoc with my brain. A deep dive into the human condition and the struggle between conflicting worlds it was revolutionary for its time - and yet uncannily relevant to today’s modern age. I didn’t read it until I was in my 40s. I’m glad I waited.
Anything at all by Caitlin Moran
In terms of writing, Caitlin has it all. Honesty, humour and a brilliant turn of phrase. She keeps you on a tightrope, precariously balanced. On one side there are belly laughs and genuine ‘laugh out louds’ (I can’t bring myself to say LOLs). On the other, there’s a deep chasm of heartbreak and snotty tissues. Writing like that, requires talent. Oscillate at will between the two.
Harry Potter series by JK Rowling
Controversially (and to my daughter’s disgust) I’m not a fan of Harry Potter but there’s no denying that JK Rowling is a brilliant storyteller. Hats off to anyone who can create a world that is so engaging and so compelling that countless cultures across the world are left spellbound. I still think that Hermione, Neville, Luna and Snape are the true heroes – but hey, who am I to argue? 500 million people cannot be wrong. A legion of followers? Yes please.
Hollywood Wives by Jackie Collins
The glitz, the glamour and a cast of archetypal, ‘paint by numbers’ characters that you love and hate in equal measure. I have read and reread this novel so many times I can just pick it up and start it at any point and know what happens before and after. It might not win any literary prizes (sorry Jackie) and the plot isn’t going to make you question your belief system, but it has a gripping story arc and provides you with pure escapism on every page.
Watership Down by Richard Adams
Just so I can change the ending. (Well, come on! No-one needs that trauma).
Thanks to Bookends Carlisle for photo location #shoplocal #readingrocks