Best reads 2007

Peter Hoeg

Quiet girl

“If you enjoy a bit of intrigue pick up a copy of this book, find a quiet spot and ensure that you have a bit of time to enjoy. The setting is Denmark, a circus clown, a group of children living in a convent and one little girl and they all have something special in common.”

-- Doreen Walden, Central

Irvine Welsh

If you liked school, you'll love this

“Irvine Welsh's return to short stories makes for a simultaneously hilarious, moving and disturbing read. If you are already a fan of Welsh or like to step out of your comfort zone, you won't be disappointed.”

 -- Nick Daunt, Central

                    Dick Francis

                    Dead heat

                    “Dick Francis, now writing with his son Felix, is adept at viewing the racing world from many different points of view. A young chef, fighting to protect his reputation after a case of food poisoning, is the protagonist of their latest, engrossing crime thriller.”

-- Helen Beckingsale, Central

Paul Torday

Salmon fishing in the Yemen

“A quirky tale set in London, Scotland and the Yemen with thought provoking slants on relationships and the environment.”

-- Carol Griffiths, Parnell

Alison Bechdel

Fun home: a family tragicomic

“I read it in one sitting, accelerating like a diver in freefall, making my way slowly back to the surface after I closed the book. The honesty is tough, the imagery fantastic, the emotions real.” 

   -- Karen Craig, Central

Anita Shreve

Body surfing

“Whilst reading this novel, expect to feel a roller coaster of emotions as the main character Sydney comes to terms with her life after a divorce and widowhood leave her once again a single woman. More than just a love story“

  --Lin Kaiser, Central

Peter Wells

Lucky bastard

-- Gail Dailey, Central

Hilma Wolitzer

Summer reading

-- Jill Taylor, Epsom

Larry Doyle

I love you beth cooper

-- Kim Austin, Central

                   Nicola Barker

                   Darkmans

                  -- Julie Sargisson, Leys Institute