A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

A brilliant novel, informative and heart rendering. Set in the seventies in a large Indian town which is unknown to the reader, this novel chronicles the story of four individuals from very different sectors of the Indian caste system. Mistry is a spectacular storyteller. He is able to write with great detail of the minutiae of daily life without draining the novel with heavy descriptions, as well as link the narratives of the four characters into the larger picture. 

Each character is described in such a way that you feel as though you have met them in real life. The dialogues that break up the narrative also add to this effect. You cannot help but be drawn to the characters and their plight. In addition to this, the way that the relationships between the characters unfold and develop is natural, with trust being gained slowly through experiences. There is a real warmth to the relationships as the distance that the characters try and preserve due to differences in status or generation become discarded once happiness shines through.

The novel is full of stark contrasts. There are the obvious contrasts between rich and poor, life in the city versus the village and less obvious ones such as differences in attitudes. Even acts of kindness are undercut by inhumanity and cruelty. The contrasts serve as a constant reminder to the reader of the differences in life, especially in India, and how these combine to make a 'fine balance'. Despite it being a rather bleak and depressing novel most of the time, the title serves as a realistic, yet positive reminder of the beauty of life is because of this balance. In Mistry's own words, the 'fine balance' is between hope and despair. The lives of the characters are harsh, full of challenges and injustices. However, there is always perseverance, optimism and even humour. The finale of the novel shows how three of the characters get by and are still smiling. The only character that does not manage to keep up the balance is unable to bear life and its horrors destroy him. 

Mistry writes with such clarity into the political and social state of 1970s India and how deeply embedded the caste system was in society. There is a real sense of injustice shown in the corruption brought about by money and power, which is conveyed in the multiple narratives of turmoil and humiliation, which shock, appall and disgust the reader. Yet, Mistry portrays the beauty of human relationships that endure life through every hurdle. I especially love how he writes with no bias towards any particular religion or caste. Parsis, Muslims and Hindus are all shown to have kindness in their hearts and be able to be swayed by corruption. The same goes for the different castes. Even in the midst of evil and tragedy there is a message of hope because A Fine Balance is pivoted on the unlimited capacity that human beings have to survive and to selflessly care for one another. In his characters, Mistry has recreated the fates of many throughout the world through political unrest, war and other tragedy.

On finishing the novel, the reader may feel a little bit as though they have grown in spirit. Its power makes one appreciate the life a Westerner in modern day is blessed with. The novel is also uplifting in that it highlights how despite all, love, care and kindness prevails all.

Better Half - A Gujarati film by Ashish Kakkad

'Better Half' is a beautiful tale of friendship, marriage and companionship. Although in Gujarati and set in the capital, Ahmedabad, this film speaks many languages and is appreciated by many all over the world. It depicts the discrepancies between traditional and cultural versus modern society's thoughts and values on marriage and married life, in a simple but powerful way.

The film opens with the main character, Manav, as he prepares to move to the city in order to start a new role in his career. Right from the start, we see his family lovingly tease him on thinking about settling down with a wife. Manav is in no rush to get married and believes that meeting someone ought to be natural; he wouldn't dream of marrying just to settle down in a traditional family unit. Manav makes it clear that he would  much rather have a lifetime companion to share his life with.

Love does indeed creep up on Manav, and when he least expects it. We follow Manav's journey in love as he marries the girl he falls for and as the newleyweds marry, each of them learns the harsh reality. Many things get in the way of love: household chores, misunderstandings and the chaotic career life. As well as this, financial difficulties put a strain on their marriage. What both Kamini and Manav soon learn is that love is no bed of roses and that compromises are a must when it comes to happiness.

'Better Half' teaches us the values that should be learned and digested, whether we are from the older generation and living a simple countryside life, or a young professional living a hectic city life. Full of natural city life scenes, customs and surroundings, this film not only kicks you with nostalgia, it brings a touch of realism. There is even some music and dreamy scenes for the romantic film aficionados amongst you. All lyrics are written by Chirag Tripathi . Multi-talented, Kakkad, even features as a voice-over for a few of the characters that feature in the film.

What I most like about this film, is watching how the characters grow and develop. There isn't a particular siding or focus on any one character, as each of them plays an important role and have a voice in the film's message. This reflects how every individual, whether in society, family or in the workplace, has a distinct role and importance, and without one individual, the unit would crumble. One scene I particularly liked that highlights just this, is where Manav's mother is consoling her daughter in law and supporting her rather than taking the side of her son. Her character breaks the norm of the stereotypical unsupportive mother-in-law in the Indian family unit. 'Better Half' also reminds us about challenges and compromises one should learn to make in life in order to live harmoniously  Furthermore, the notion that everyone must work together to be happier and improved is also evoked. There is plenty of food for thought in this film.

An absolute delight of a film that can be enjoyed by all, young or old. A hearty congratulations to Ashish Kakkad for bringing a fresh breath of air to the Indian film industry, may there be many more ahead.

"Marriage has some thorns, but celibacy has no roses." - Vernon K McLellan.

"Unbroken happiness is a bore. It should have its ups and downs." - Moliere.

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Based in the sixties during the Nigerian Civil War, this is one of those few books that leave you staring at the final page, not wanting to believe that it's all over. I was completely consumed by this novel and have been taking every opportunity to discuss it with others since finishing it. 

The novel tackles a delicate subject, the lead up to and the course of Nigeria's Biafra War in the 1960's. It is told in a very readable and accessible way. The events unfold through the eyes of three central characters, who are swept along in the chaos of civil war. They are forced together and separated in unexpected ways throughout the war, each witnessing events that affect them deeply. 

Adichie writes beautifully, with strong imagery and fitting words. At times you are given the character's most intimate and private thoughts, and the way these are described makes the reader feel a part of the drama. The characters are so well rounded and realistic, that you can relate and sympathise with every single one of them at some point in the novel. The relationships between Olanna and Odenigbo; Olanna and Kainene; Kainene and Richard; Odenigbo and his group of intellectuals all develop or deteriorate throughout the events that shape the novel. Ugwu's loyalty remains throughout his dabble with base brutality. The strong contrasts in their lives are shown through these events, the ease with which life was lived before the war, the fear, panic and inhumane responses that ensued amongst both the rich and the poor. Furthermore, the inaction of the international community is something that is treated delicately yet commented on. 

Interwoven in the main plot are other important themes such as the necessity and ineffectiveness of emergency relief aid, for the innocent people displaced by war and through corruption and misappropriation. The use of child soldiers and the horrors they are forced to endure is also treated in the novel, making it particularly realistic yet raw. The role of religion in a war, wartime propaganda, how tribal loyalties and the political elite can tear a country apart are subjects all written about with care. Something that particularly stood out for me, was how the way in which the Western world perceives Africa and the realities of war. There is a particular scene that stands out, where two American reporters are more interested in the death of one white journalist than they are of one thousand local, black civilians. This irony comments on how all the aid and media coverage that the Western world use to show their sympathies are just political statements rather than genuine heartfelt, and how at the end of the day we are all human, yet across borders, divides and governments, we are all divided.

The structure of the novel worked well, creating intrigue and suspense throughout. It was gripping from start to finish and even though it is quite a harrowing and distressing account of war, it speaks volumes. The author's passion and dedication for her country is shown throughout, through the vivid descriptions as well as through the use of authorial intrusion. The way that traditional food and traditions are described, as well as how people are portrayed as resilient and loyal, leave you with a feeling that you have been to Nigeria yourself.

‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ is the symbol of the short-lived Biafran state. Adichie has created a masterpiece in this novel. Storytelling at its best, it is a major contribution to African literature and highly recommended.

Coconut Unlimited by Nikesh Shukla

'Coconut Unlimited' is set in the nineties within an immigrant community. The focus is on adolescence and the trials and tribulations of growing up. Our narrator and main character, Amit, is a first generation British Gujarati. 

The novel open with the three characters, Amit, Anand and Nishant who have reunited since their school days for Amit's stag night. After this introductory chapter you are taken back to Harrow in the 1990s where they grow up. Amit has a lot of expectation and pressure from his parents who have high ambitions for him. At school, he and his two friends are marked out as the only Asians in an exclusively white private school. Here, they are subjected to tirades of racial abuse from not only their peers, but also their teachers. Amit also feels estranged from his Asian community. From all this teenage angst, he begins to follow his creativity and create a hip-hop group called 'Coconut Unlimited' with his two pals. 'Coconut' is what he is nicknamed by his sister, as he is considered white inside his racial colouring exterior. 

What makes this novel  special is that you are able to get to know the characters as real life personalities. Shukla does well to not over describe, making it light and able to relate to. The novel tackles the themes of teenage angst and coming of age as well as cultural differences and finding your identity. As a result, most readers will be able to relate to the characters, regardless of whether they like hip hop music or are brought up in a mixed cultured society. There are many laugh out loud moments where you are reminded of the exuberance of youth and the fashion faux-pas. 

I would say that the only way in which this novel disappoints me slightly is that there are several controversial issues are touched upon, but not explored later on. The ending also feels rather abrupt where the characters are rounded off quickly. However, I think this may be the author’s way of showing how teenage friendships wear away through life. 

Full of compassion and nostalgia, a great first novel and worthy runner up for the Costa First Novel Award.

The Lion in Winter directed by Trevor Nunn at The Theatre Royal, Haymarket

A great theatrical piece. I think this play works well for stage because the subject matter and themes covered allow for theatrical interpretation and props. Gender wars and the strong presence of sexual politics keep the play alive yet entertaining. These themes are outlined well using props and theatrical tricks. 

The set designs are elegant and well placed to set the period of time perfectly, working well with the costumes and lighting. Traditional theatical methods to heighten the drama are used, for example, the way that the characters hide and are discovered behind curtains, is a classic stage ploy and creates that element of farce. There is also a monologue or two. 

It must be added that the play is well cast with Joanna Lumley and Robert Lindsay. Lindsay plays the role of Henry II beautifully. A strong character, he is emotive and able and to use his voice portray determination as well as emotion. Lumley plays the role of the demanding and determined Eleanor of Aquitaine finely. She is strIiking and ever present. Together they make a perfect duelling pair for stage.

What I particularly like about this play is how it manages to use history to portray a theme that is forever current: dysfunctional famielies. At the very core of the drama lays characters’ ambitions, desires and drive. One of Shakespeare's less-known plays, but one that is versatile for present day.

A fine balance of traditional themes and current, incorporated together well, making this play humorous yet gripping.  One to watch, especially recommended to current students of acting and stage design.

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

What a inspirational read. In fact, so much so that I feel strongly about it being recommended as prescription reading for those in need of it.

The novel is biographical yet spiritual. It teaches many lessons and provides plenty of food for thought. Although it is a simple read with many parts narrated in direct speech, this is the beauty of the novel, making it accessible to everyone. Regardless of your age, reading level or concentration level, you will be able to read this and appreciate it. Furthermore, it is small enough also to digest for those who are not regular readers.

There are quotations and words of wisdom, as well as points of view on the art of living life to its fullest. Truly wonderful reading: it will warm the heart, it will make you reflect and renew your thoughts and it will make you smile. I strongly feel that it should be added to everyone's reading lists. May Mitch and Morrie continue to inspire all over the globes for years to come.

The Playboy of the Western World at The Old Vic by JM Synge

When this play was first on stage, back in 1907, it was received badly, causing riots in Dublin. Although hard to believe today, such are the issues raised by the playwright. The Old Vic’s version is a commendable performance, with plausible accents and gripping scenes. The themes and social context is positioned well with the performance with well placed nuances.
The folk singers and musicians heighten the atmosphere and create the right blend to accompany the storyline. Furthermore, this emphasises the roots of the original. Viweers need not know the historical or political background to appreciate the dark comedy or situations in order to appreciate and enjoy the play. In additon to this, the way that the stage design rotates are different points in the play adds a three dimensional quality to it. Although most of the action takes place in Pegeen Mike’s inn, the aura of the outside world is made more alluring by the stage design. We are given a glimpse of untouched countryside with the cleverly designed window scene.
It must be added that this play is wonderfully creative in the use of language. Not only does it preserve the original script, it keeps is fresh and quirky. Viewers are able to appreciate the quips and action. The language does not weigh down the humour or storyline, which can often prove a challenge with a new production.

Refreshing, lyrical and engaging. The Old Vic puts on a great cast and performance. One to be preserved and brought back to stage.

Gwendolen Chatfield
Karen Cogan
John Cormack
Niamh Cusack
Drew Dillon
Christopher Doyle
Diarmuid de Faoite
James Greene
Gráinne Keenan
Frank Laverty
Gary Lydon
Ruth Negga
Robert Sheehan
Bronagh Taggart
Kevin Trainor

Director
John Crowley
Designer
Scott Pask
Lighting
Howard Harrison
Music
Philip Chevron
Sound
Christopher Shutt
Casting
Maggie Lunn

Snowdrops by A.D. Miller

(Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2011)

A poignant tale which takes a twist on the classic crime novel. The descriptions of Moscow as a city, Moscow as a victim and its people too are surreal. A.D.Miller is able to describe in a way that does not rely on adjectives alone. The juxtaposition of what he describes and the backdrops used provide clear visions of a post-war Moscow.

The novel is narrated in the first-person almost throughout, with small snippets of direct speech to break it up. This works well in that it provides the reader with an outsider's viewpoint of Russia. Characters in this novel are described mostly through Nicholas's viewpoint. However, there is clear authorial intrusion in the way that Masha and Katya are described. Their clothing, their behaviour and their words which we get through direct speech, all indicate to the reader to take an immediate cold approach to them. The depiction of Russia, from its customs to the weather is very detailed, yet done in a subtle minimalist manner, again without the over use of adjectives. All this builds up a picture with which we are able to see strong contrasts to English culture and life in London.

 

As an outsider, we feel frustration at Nicholas’ lack of vision. Yet, at the same time, small actions and sentences throughout make us believe that he knows he is being taken for a fool, but he would rather withstand it is it means a life of excitement, danger and sexual satisfaction. Does Nicholas put up with it for a small price as money is disposable and it is worth the small excitement, danger and better than being alone? We get a sense of a lack of satisfaction of his life in London and Luton from what we are told about his pre-Moscow life and also from his Christmas visit back home to Luton. There is also the ambiguity of Tatiana’s innocence. How involved is she? Does she get her stake of the money and is on the scheme with the girls or is she also made a fool and left homeless on the streets? There is a strong sense of Russia and how the country’s politics have made up its people. Snowdrops not only describes the buried dead but also the lack of feeling, warmth and humanity in the country as a whole; how they have become so due to circumstance and instability – almost as a fight to survive on an autopilot mode. We are given a small sense of sympathy from the way that Masha and Katya describe the lack of opportunity and even the way that Nicholas's suggestion that Masha is less guilty due to her natural mother's instinct to protect her son. 

It is fair to say that there is a sort of anti-climax once the reader finally discovers the fate of the events that the story builds up on. As we are given an indication of ominous endings from the very beginning we await the result with baited breath and as the story reveals itself, expect the worst outcomes. As a result, the very ordinary revelation almost baffles the reader: are we being told the whole story? Paradoxically, this is the beauty of the A.D. Miller's writing. With very few words, he is able to highlight the cold nature, corruption and crime. Furthermore, the multiple narratives that encompass Nicholas's life, from his neighbour's missing friend, to the deadlings of his corporation, we are naturally expected to believe that the stories are loosely linked in some way. These anecdotes also heighten our anticipation. As a result, the effect is twofold: we question and compare between unfeeling and remoteness, morals and corruption.

 

Some may argue that characters are rather two-dimensional in this novel and that the prose is rather linear. I would argue that this actually highlights the writer's strength. Even though there is a lack of direct speech and just the single narrative viewpoint throughout, it is clearly more than the protagonist's viewpoint. In fact, by the reverting back to storytelling mode to his fiance, the readers is reminded that the events are told partly on reflection too. I would say that this is an extremely unique writing style to adopt, which A.D.Miller does skillfully.

Nicholas as a narrator makes it known to the reader about what a flawed character he is. This is refreshing to read not only as a storyteller but as an observer. His insights into Russian culture and society and his observations are well-balanced so that this is not too much of a shocking read.All in all, a strong contender for the 2011 Man Booker Prize and a worthy read.

Journey's End at The Duke of York's Theatre

RC Sherrif's World War I play is a classic, covering the messages and emotions of wartime and trenchlife.

The focus of the narrative is the relationship between idealistic and innocent Lieutenant Raleigh and the gallant and wearied Captain Stanhope. While many may see the play as old-fashioned, not only so in dialogue but in issues covered, this production lifts RC Sherriff's play to another level so that the emotions are conveyed in a very human like dimension.

Tear-jerkingly moving, funny, accurate and gripping. Skillfull acting, the kind which is able to transform and engulf you in what seems can be the only way imaginable so by the playwright. Particularly notable is the visibility of the characters' transformation through war and trenchlife. The endless waiting, the power of the mind and the horrors of trenchlife are all portrayed flawlessy. 

 

The final scenes leave you feeling overwhelmed with emotions. Powerful sounds, lighting and accurate stage design heighten all sensations. RC Sherriff's aim to convey the futility of war and the irony of patriotism is vivid.

Exemplary theatre at its finest. Highly commended and recommended.

Staring: Dominic Mafham, Graham Butler, James Norton, Tim Chipping and Christian Patterson.

Director: David Grindley

Designer: Jonathan Fensom

Lighting and Sound: Jason Taylor and Gregory Clarke

General Manager: Gareth Johnson

500 Days of Summer directed by Marc Webb

The title of this film creates much intrigue. Before the film even begins there is suggestion that there is more than meets to the eye to what may seem like just another rom-com. As the narrator tells us "this is not a love story".

The narrator plays an important role in the film. He guides the viewer to follow the story in the correct manner, as an outsider looking in. Much like authorial intrusion in a good novel, the narrator give a voiceover that is ever so slightly biased. Yet, the narrator's presence is not overpowering. Viewers are still able to intererpret and explore scenes in their own manner. In addition to this, the way in which the film plays in flashbacks, with the small help of flashcards with figures to help viewers keep on track, is brilliant. This gives the film a reality edge that makes it so unique. In real life, memories are non-linear and some memories are stronger than others, especially where love and romance are concerned. The film portrays this spot-on and outlines the underlying theme: the relationship between our consciousness and blurred reality when love takes a front seat.

I loved Rachel's role in this film- she is Tom's wise, younger sister who he turns to for advice. The way in which Rachel's character is portrayed: as Tom's consciousness and voice of reason, is excellent. Although the way the film is rolled out in flashbacks mean that we see events in memory form that are replayed in Tom's brain, Rachel's character and the narrator's subtle words remind the viewer that we are meant to look on as outsiders rather than through Tom's eyes.

A beautifully written and acted film. Creative, funny and thought-provoking. Almost everyone will be able to relate to it in some way or another. Finally, the ending is perfect as it suits every type of viewer, not too soppy nor hard-hitting.

"And remember, there is always another season ... maybe Autumn?"

Cause Célèbre at The Old Vic

Based on the true story of Alma Rattenbury who went on trial with her 18-year-old lover for the murder of her husband, Cause Célèbre is an intriguing tale of love, betrayal, loyalty and obsession.

The Old Vic's version of Terence Rattigan's final play Cause Célèbre is a theatre at its very best. I believe it works so well because the of how timeless it is. Themes of class, scandal and passion with the overlap of loyalty, morality and vice make for a perfect stage drama appealing to a wide audience. 

A compelling story, emotional and gripping; it will keep you guessing until the very end. Impressive costume and set design, especially so for the final courtroom act. Future productions will be hard pushed to match this spectacular performance by the winning combination of cast and production.

Cast:

Lucy Black Timothy Carlton Simon Chandler Richard Clifford Oliver Coopersmith Niamh Cusack Anne-Marie Duff Rory Fleck-Byrne Freddie Fox Jenny Galloway Patrick Godfrey Nicholas Jones Tommy McDonnell Lucy Robinson Tristan Shepherd Richard Teverson Sarah Waddell Michael Webber Tristram Wymark Production

Director: Thea Sharrock Designer: Hildegard Bechtler Lighting: Bruno Poet Music: Adrian Johnston Sound: Ian Dickinson Casting: Sarah Bird

Another Year - written and directed by Mike Leigh

Another Year is a beautifully original and endearing film. Jim Broadbent and Mary Sheen team together and play the characters Tom and Gerry perfectly. Funny at times, sad a lot of the time yet heartwarming and thought-provoking too.

What makes this film powerful is the characterisation and subtlety of plot. The way that events unfold softly and the capturing of this through clever camerawork gives the viewer the upper hand: we are given the power to see through the characters not only neutrally, but through the eyes of Tom and Gerry too. Particularly impressive is the way that characters are uncovered through the film's progression. We see development and deterioration in some, yet there are others that remain unchaged. Furthermore, while on the one hand we learn more about Mary as the film goes on, we learn very little about Tom and Gerry: If we compare how much we learn about the couple from the beginning to the end, it is little. Yet, despite of this, we feel closer to the pair and more aligned to their way of thinking than we ever do to Mary. 

The characterisation, subtelties and camerawork give Another Year the edge of realism that puts it head and shoulders above other modern dramas. Theway in which it captures life makes it wholesome: how we all cope with what is trown at us and in turn how that makes or breaks us. Incredible acting worthy of many more awards.

A Farewell to Arms: Ernest Hemingway

Keeping on the theme of war literature, this novel touches on the issues of war, mortality and love. What makes it stand out from other war literature is the way in which it is written. It is vacant and bare yet emotive and spells out the picture clearly.

The chaotic nature of war and how it drives nations and individuals is delicately explored. The well known way in which an idealistic, patriotic attitude disintegrates through time is highlighted in the main character. Other characters are also crippled emotionally. The war has changed them.

The underlying theme evoked in the novel is that moral progress in humanity can only be achieved through suffering.

One Day by David Nicholls

A novel about life, love, friendship and relationships that would appeal to both men and women. Not soppy romantic novelesque in the way the theme of love is treated, nor does it have lengthy descriptive passages; yet it manages to be utterly compelling. Situations, feelings and experiences felt in real life are those we have all felt in our own lives and can relate to.

Several narration techniques are used in the novel. It is told through the viewpoints of both main characters, Emma and Dexter, with authorial intrusion in parts throughout. The chapters switch from Emma and Dexter's life and from past to present, giving it the effect of living through memories and present day as the characters do themselves.  This also helps retain the readers' interest and raise many questions which we read on avidly in hope to have answers for. Even though the reader has the advantage of seeing the events unfold through both characters, Nicholls skillfully writes so that the reader is divided equally in sympathies and loyalties to Dex and Em.

What I most loved about One Day was how realistic it is and easy to relate to, whilst taking over your everyday life as you read it. The characters and their situations find themselves in your thoughts when you are not reading the book. It is also laugh out loud funny and full of literary goodness. Easy to read and great for those who love taking a trip down memory lane, it is nostalgic and warm. Highly recommended. 

Memorable quotations:

"Live each day as if it's your last', that was the conventional advice, but really, who had the energy for that? What if it rained or you felt a bit glandy? It just wasn't practical. Better by far to simply try and be good and courageous and bold and to make a difference. Not change the world exactly, but the bit around you. Go out there with your passion and your electric typewriter and work hard at ... something. Change lives through art maybe. Cherish your friends, stay true to your principles, live passionately and fully and well. Experience new things. Love and be loved, if you ever get the chance." - p.433 of the paperback version.

"You're gorgeous, you old hag, and if I could give you just one gift ever for the rest of your life it would be this. Confidence. It would be the gift of confidence. Either that or a scented candle" 

"Sometimes, when it's going badly, she wonders if what she believes to be a love of the written word is really just a fetish for stationary. The true writer, the born writer, will scribble words on scraps of litter, the back of a bus tickets, on the wall of a cell. Emma is lost on anything less than 120gsm."

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind - directed by Michel Gondry

A wonderful art film. I would say it is somewhat overlooked for the classic cinema techniques used. The storylines coils back on itself which means that events are redefined in several layers. This is a creative way of keeping the viewer's interest. 

For those who are able to relate to the feelings explored, from giving and receiving love and lost love, will appreciate the film for its subtelties. Very beautifully made so that the underlying messages are evoked without being spoken out too obviously. Finally, a feel good film for all, albeit in a complex way.

Praiseworthy performances by Kate Winslet and Jim Carey, showcasing their versatility as actors. 

Favourite quotations from the film: 

"Random thoughts for Valentine's day, 2004. Today is a holiday invented by greeting card companies to make people feel like crap" - Joel (voice over)

"How happy is the blameless vestal's lot! / The world forgetting, by the world forgot / Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind! / Each pray'r accepted, and each wish resign'd."- Mary, while reading to Dr. Mierzwiak out of Bartlett's Familiar Quotations, the lines are from Alexander Pope's poem Eloisa to Abelard.

"Sand is overrated. It's just tiny, little rocks."- Joel

On Green Dolphin Street by Sebastian Faulks

If you are a fan of Sebastian Faulks's writing then this one is another winner. The careful way in which he unfolds his characters and develops them using a backdrop in history is fascinating. I particularly love the way that he uses authorial intrusion and the way in which his characters inner feelings are explored.

On the other hand, not one for those who are searching for a deep war novel having read 'Birdsong'. Read with this in mind and appreciating the exploration of characters and words and you will not be disappointed.

A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka

Laugh out loud funny, a good light read. The story is an insight into the difficulties faced by many families and the struggles that come with age. 

Mostly told through direct speech and little authorial intrusion. Marina Lewycka introduces her characters slowly, unraveling mysteries and flaws with stories of the past. Description is not what makes it unusual. Although the novel is mostly seen through the eyes of one character, actions and decisions taken by other characters and how they are revealed make up a large part in how the reader judges the characters.

I particularly enjoyed the way the plot breaks with snippets of detail and history about tractors in Ukraine, a book that one of the characters writes. The novel within a novel, mise-en-abime, technique works really well with the main plot. The differences of the two stories highlighting the vast differences in society and between the two cultures: Ukrainian and British.

The plot would make for an excellent script of a play as I think there is strengh in the story and characters to entertain and educate an audience.

A good novel if you are looking for something different. Not your average classic love story or war history novel.

Favourite quotation:

"Weddings like funerals, provide the perfect arena for family drama: there are the rituals, symbolic costumes, and every opportunity for snobbery in its many guises."

Birdsong by Rachel Wagstaff at The Comedy Theatre

Passion, forbidden love and brutality of the battleground

 

Ben Barnes says: "It's amazing how many people have tapped into this book as something that feels very personal to them, even though it's fictional." in BBC News interview. This stage version of Sebastian Faulk’s best-loving novel, is able to convey this very feeling.  The love-war tale against a war backdrop is epic. Gripping scenes transport the viewer, between the tearful love story and the tragedies of war.

The use of juxtaposition from one scene to another adds to the vulnerable state of the characters and delicate situations they face. The acting is successful in conveying the journeys of love and war faced and how in turn, these mature them. 

Costumes add to the beautiful simplicity: Lisette’s white garments contrasting with Isabella’s splashes of red. Battleground and trench scene attire bring forward to uniform-like nature of the situation, with little difference between the men: They all face the same daily living nightmare. 

Depictions of life on the trenches and the battles are recreated through outstanding set designs. The juxtaposition of clear daylight, fresh air and laughter of previous scenes with Isabella and Stephen with those of cramp and dimly lit underground trenches is a stark reminder of the life thousands of soldiers lived through. In addition to this, the birdsong that is heard and echoed on the empty, silent battlefield is chilling to the bones and reminiscent of Faulk’s harrowing descriptions of the scenes at the Somme. 

Transporting you emotionally, the sounds and lighting augment the reality. The roll of names of officers killed during the Battle of the Somme, with the simplicity of the stage is harrowing. The manner in which the names are called out in subsequent order, with a distinct lack of emotion highlights the futility of war and disturbing realism of the number of lives lost.

The entrapment scene with Stephen and Jack is particularly commendable. The acting is magnificent, showcasing the camaraderie between soldiers in situations of life and death. This followed by a striking field of red poppies on a bed of grass. A perfect ending to a remarkable show.   

Poignant, enthralling and beautifully acted. Not to be missed.

 

Sources: 

BBC Interview with Ben Barnes- http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-11288511

 http://www.birdsongtheplay.com/ 

Cast: The stage version has been penned by Rachel Wagstaff, with Trevor Nunn directing. Alongside Barnes, the cast includes Nicholas Farrell (Chariots of Fire), Iain Mitchell (La Cage Aux Folles), Genevieve O'Reilly (Spooks) Lee Ross (EastEnders) and Zoe Waites (The Other Boleyn Girl).

The Time Traveller's Wife- novel by Audrey Niffenegger and film directed by Robert Schwentke

This was a publishing sensation. Could it be due to the fact that the novel combines two of the most loved types of genre, romance/love and fantasy/sci-fi? One thing is for certain, it definately has a page-turner quality about it. 

Having read the book and then watched the film adaptation, I believe the novel would have been better translated into a mini series on television rather than a film, because a series could have celebrated the page-turner quality to build up suspense and create further interest. For example, it is clear from early on that Henry is a time-traveller in the film, whereas the build-up to the explanation leaves the reader speculating while reading the novel. This could have been used to heighten curiosity in a television series format. I am not convinced that viewers of the film who had not previously read the novel got the same sense of urgency that comes across in Niffenegger's novel, particularly in the earlier time travelling scenes.

Niffenegger writes most of the novel using direct speech. The flicking back and forth from past, present and future works well as a way for the reader to appreciate the urgency and sense of time that Henry experiences. The narration splits also, at times being told through Claire's eyes whilst other times through Henry's. While I appreciate this literary technique in other works- namely Margaret Atwood's novels, in this it did not work as well. There was something missing for me: a lack of description and authorial intrusion made it feel almost like a script at some points in the novel. However, one thing is clear: the novel is called The Time Traveller's Wife, not 'The Time Traveller' and the reader is able to feel more sensitivity towards Claire than Henry. It is fair to say that it is not as evident in the film and at times almost feels as if the novel centres around Henry. 

Overall I would say that the mixture of themes used and the way in which the novel opens and finishes are its more stronger qualities. However, I did not feel the urge to immediately recommend it or reading further on the work and author upon completion. Whilst it would appeal to many readers, it did not tick the boxes of things I seek in a work of fiction. Finally, one thing I would suggest is for readers to watch the film adaptation and compare the differences.

Small Island by Andrea Levy

Another magnificent piece of literature using war as a backdrop. Andrea Levy tells the story of prejudice, hardships, circumstance and passion.  The story is narrated from the perspective of four different characters. The way in which the voice of narration is shifted as well as the time space, draws in the reader drawn as individual stories unfold. Furthermore, Levy writes uses direct speech and local dialects, interemingling Jamaican style with Cockney style. This gives each character a uniqueness and personalisation which in turn make them come alive as people jumping off the page, rather than two-dimensional characters.

Skillfully written, the narration is not in any way judgemental or demeaning and the themes of racism and cultutral differences are tackled delicately. Levy uses juxtaposition creatively, both in showing attitudes between the English and Jamaicans as well as writing of different situations. There is force in the writing, creating tension for the reader. In addition to this, the use of pathetic fallacy is powerful and exemplary.

Funny yet tragic, an absolute must-read.

The BBC adaptation by John Alexander is excellent. Beautifully adapted and superbly acted, it is loyal to the novel and manages to retain the warmth of the story.