And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini

If you liked ‘The Kite Runner’ and ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns’, then this latest novel from Khaled Hosseini will have you wishing it were morning commute time so you can catch more reading time.

A more modern edge to his previous writing style, this story spans over generations and features an array of characters from different countries. Poverty, families torn apart and the after-effects of war are the main themes in this novel. Each of the characters is affected by the war, whether it is directly or second-hand. They are a rich tapestry of people who are affected in life by their experiences, both good and bad. It is not only this, but how those experiences affect those around them that gives this novel that stimulating extra. The way that their interlinking tales is written about is skilful. Hosseini shows us how it is much like the way life is.

Although challenging to get your head around all the characters, it is worth reading slowly to see how they are all linked together. The narrative changes often which can leave you wondering if you are reading the same book at times. Some characters narrate in the first person, while others through letters or interviews, thus providing a real variety of reading styles to enjoy. The evocative writing is guaranteed to transport you and your heart will be wishing and hoping for their dreams.

Thought-provoking and captivating; an incomparable read. You will find yourself remembering fragments of it days after.

NW by Zadie Smith

The story follows four different individuals who have grown up in North West London in the Caldwell estate. Each of the characters struggles to get ahead in their life; be it due to social repression, acceptance or addiction. The parts dedicated to each character are not equal and the reader may feel denied from getting to know certain characters further. This is a clever technique that Smith uses highlighting how uncaring society can be.

Smith is a very talented writer, writing with humor and conviction about everyday topics as well as the taboo topics of modern London. The writing is versatile and non-confirmative. There is an interesting mix of description and direct speech and Smith breathes life into each of her characters. It is rewarding to be able to get to know the characters on such an intimate level, having a window into their thoughts. What I particularly love about Zadie Smith’s writing is the way in which she is able to write about her characters in a way that the reader is non-judging. There is the perfect balance of sympathy yet frustration for each of them that it keeps you gripped wanting to learn of their progress.

Smith ought to be commended for her sharp observations. She shows her real knowledge of the inner flows of society and is not afraid to focus on the issues surrounding ethnic minorities and the pursuit to rise above their own class. There are some delicate themes that pop up in NW. One of which is the role of the wife as a mother. The idea that society is unable to accept a marriage as a union between two, without children is played with. Leah feels this pressure from society to perform her duty as a woman to bear children. Another is the struggle that individuals face when they try to live a clean life and want to move on from the past. Society will constantly remind them of their past downfall.

Absolutely fascinating piece by Zadie Smith and an excellent addition to modern literature. Definitely recommend to all those brought up or living in London. It would make an excellent piece for literature students focused on topics of culture and race in ethnically diverse cities. 

Saraswati Park by Anjali Joseph

Set in Mumbai, Saraswati Park tells the story of a middle-class family. The complexities in their everyday lives and how they go through their journeys, sets this novel apart with a real edge and warm glow.

Mohun and Lakshmi take in their nephew, Ashish for a year while he studies for his degree. Each of them begins to think about their lives and what they yearn for, which inevitably brings about change. The pace is steady throughout, making it a natural and enjoyable read.

The narration is unbiased and we are given the opportunity to see life through the eyes of each character. In addition to this, they are written about with depth. As a result, we are filled with a real sense of satisfaction as they grow during the course of the novel. With Mumbai written about with such elegance, the surroundings tie together wonderfully with the characters.

A stunning debut novel by Anjali Joseph. It will leave echoes in your imagination.

Clover’s Child by Amanda Prowse

The kind of book that will leave you planning your next reading moment! Clover’s Child is set in 60's London.  Dot Simpson is a fun-loving 18 year old girl who loves nothing more than having a laugh with her best friend Barb and enjoying her part-time job in a haberdashery at a well-known department store. One day, she meets Sol, the most exotic person she has ever laid eyes upon and here is where this story begins.

1960's Britain wasn’t the most forgiving. One could even say that it was a crime to fall in love. Dot’s experience and losses leave her aching and lifeless. How will she regain her old self, move on from the past and love the one she is with?

Amanda Prowse has a real gift of writing. Her narration is skillfull – she cleverly switches narration and sympathies for characters will switch. Descriptions are so vivid and characters are written with such soul, that your stomach will ache from laughter at some points and eyes bawling with tears at others. I must add also that the era is captured perfectly.

Not just a love story, but a life story. Soppy at times but with plot twists and an unexpected ending. It will definitely leave you with a book hangover. 

The 100 Year Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

A wonderful tale of an old man and his eventful life in which he finds himself in various accidental situations and meeting important world leaders. His humble nature and charming personality mean that he is unable to avoid getting into complicated situations, yet he manages to come out unharmed and making friends along the way. I was blown away by this book and upon finishing the last page, it made me smile to read such a tale and it to end so satisfyingly.

The characters in the novel are very imaginatively thought out. Jonasson gives us a background on the characters’ past histories, meaning that we warm to Allan’s group of oddball friends. I particularly liked this about Jonasson’s style of narration. The individual stories do not eat up too much of the main narrative, yet are easy to glide through.

The message coming through from the book is to not take anything in life too seriously. Whether it is authoritative figures, or disastrous turn of events, everything always has a way of working out just right. Additionally, the way that the characters all complement each other show how life is full of differences, making it interesting and colourful.

Originally written in Russian, the charm of the novel is not lost in this translation. Simple yet effective writing, and a unique style of humour; the translators must be commended.

Witty, informative and enjoyable. A great read for almost any type of reader.

On the Road by Jack Kerouac

On the Road is one of those books that will make you want to get off your backside and do all the adventurous things you've always dreamed of. Set during the Beat movement in the USA, the novel features two main characters that go on a road trip around the USA in search for fulfilment and pleasure.

The two friends encounter many different people and experiences on their journey. The erratic writing style mimics the minds and lifestyles of the characters. Although there is thrill seeking and pleasure, there is also the deep personal quest for meaning and belonging.

Kerouac writes with real exuberance for the good, the bad and the ugly. There is pleasure seeking through vices, yet there are also the squabbles and the exhaustions. The negative as well as the positive add to the experiences. This gives the novel a real edge as it captures the journey that the characters make, searching for more than conventionalities that society offers. The array people that the characters meet along the way and the conversations that they have really highlight this and are some of the best written parts of the novel.

One aspect of the writing that must be commended is how Kerouac manages to heighten the readers’ senses; make you hear the music, feel the sweat and smell the whiskey.

A magnificent mix of autobiography and fiction, this novel kick starts the cult American road trip style movies that have hit Hollywood since. Inspiring and enlightening.

I’ve Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

‘I’ve Got Your Number’ begins straightaway on a mystery and the novel does not stop.  After one is solved there is another, more of a ‘who done it’ which will keep you guessing till the very end.  As well as the mystery however, the novel has humour and of course, romance.

What I most loved about this novel is the way that the characters develop. The way you learn about them gradually, as you would in real life, is natural. I especially enjoyed the way that Kinsella unravels traits in the characters showing her observations of human nature, making it a fascinating read.

This novel is a good balance of verse and direct speech, so you are unlikely to get bored of the pace. The footnotes and text message parts ensure that you are kept entertained and on a reading high throughout.

Excellent storytelling and easy to read, you will be charmed to keep reading past bedtime. Full of both cringe and laugh out loud episodes, this latest Kinsella makes perfect holiday reading.

Poor Things by Alasdair Gray

Poor Things is not like any other novel I have read before. It is not only the storyline, but the characters, illustrations and general writing style that make this piece of work by Gray an imaginative and intelligent masterpiece.

Gray writes in a way which really captures the reader. No matter how much you may shake your head at how unrealistic events are, you still drawn in to the storyline. His imagination and creativity work in such a way that key issues as class divide, power and feminism are written about with real passion beneath the bizarre plot. Further to the key issues raised, Gray shows a side of scientific knowledge and insight into the human psyche in Poor Things.

As for Gray’s characters, they are so real, you can almost taste them. They are quirky and eccentric, yet they manage to warm the reader and there is a real sense of charm in the way that they are described.

There are illustrations in the novel which are also by Alasdair Gray. These may seem exaggerated at times, but really add flavour to the novel. There is also the mocking edge and amusing side to them which make you imagine events with more vibrancy.  

What I loved most about this novel is how the plot itself seems to undermine and question itself. Further to this, Bella’s version of events that follow after the novel raise even more interesting questions. You are constantly left speculating on issues. The beauty of it is that whichever way certain facts are depicted, there is no correct version of events.

You’re in for a real rollercoaster of a ride. Not for the light-hearted though.

A Doll's House by The Young Vic

The Young Vic’s version of Henry Ibsen’s classic play is a cleverly creative take, bringing the themes of Ibsen’s original to the forefront of modern day society. The play is a study of the darkness of secrecy and how it can shatter relationships.

Hattie Morahan plays the role of Nora with exuberance and passion. Her ability to switch from doll-like role to her husband, to a very trying mother and wife to her childhood friend, Christine, is remarkable. What strikes me most is how the audience feel rather grated by her childlike and shallow personality; wherein even the mentioning of the word money lights up Nora’ eyes, to feeling rather sympathetic of her by the end of the play.

Scenes which highlight Nora’s role in the house are highlighted by the way in which she dances the tarantella for her husband; the notion of pleasing her husband by looking beautiful on his arm and at parties to show off proudly speaks volumes about their relationship. What’s more, the ban of chocolate imposed in the house further highlights this. The way in which the married couple interact with one another underneath the disguise of domestical bliss, is full of tension and unsaid words. The audience are left gripped and humoured at the same time.

Nora is a trapped, not only by her relationship, but by the financial situation she faces, which in turn acts as a catalyst for her to walk out of her life.

The skilfully designed set is beautiful and plays a large part in creating the mood for the scenes. The revolving set shows times passing and makes the problems that Nora faces ever more real. Parallel to this, the music and sounds heighten to mood and give the audience a real feel of what’s to come.

I especially admire the way that The Young Vic manages to put on stage an old classic revived in a way that it shows its relevance in modern day society. The presence of a baby emphasizes the realities.

Fascinating, wonderfully creative and highly commendable acting. One not to be missed.

Locked On by Tom Clancy

Best described as a political action thriller novel, those who are familiar with Clancy’s style will be pleased to know that ‘Locked On’ is every bit of mystery that his fans know and love.

The novel works with current issues to base the main plot around. There are various sub plots in the novel which will appeal to those who love a challenging read. It has to be said that Clancy’s knowledge of government and international issues are really highlighted in this latest piece; which in turn work well to create intrigue. It manifests itself as a well-researched novel.

Readers of his novels will be familiar with the characters from previous Clancy works. Nevertheless, the characters are described in such depth, that first time readers will also feel that they have known the characters for years. There are also some new heroes and villains in this latest piece which heighten the drama.

Without giving away any of the plots, it should be noted that this book is different than previous ones in that it comments on a different kind of governmental situation and provokes thought.

Full of riveting action and will keep you in suspense throughout. A real gem for Clancy fans.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby has a real charm about it and is one of the kinds of books that you know you ought to add to your book list. The mysterious title gives nothing away. Set in 1920s, New York, the story opens with a young man discovering paths in a new life.

Nick Carraway narrating the novel, immediately draws in the reader as he sets up a new life in as a young trader. There is a sense of mystery from the start regarding his new neighbourhood and in particular his neighbour, who throws lavish parties every weekend. As the story progresses, the reader uncovers little by little of the great unknown, yet you are kept hooked with surprises and plot twists until the very end.

The novel is a commentary on the Jazz Age; the post-war ambience and The American Dream are presented through his characters. The quest for a new life, the preoccupation of the classes and most importantly the hunger for money possess the characters and cause their rise and fall. Scott Fitzgerald creates his characters so that they come alive.  The simple, yet descriptive writing style means that the reader has an advantage. This is through the layering of narrative perspective and use of pathetic fallacy. Tom will make you want to earn millions, Daisy will make you want to love and Gatsby will make you want to dream.

The beauty of this novel for me is how accessible it is today. Although a classic, it is timeless as the notions are all things readers will be able to identify with. The disintegration of the American Dream and the decay of social and moral value draw parallels on capitalism and consumerism of today’s world. One to read.