If you’re wondering why this wrap up is such a mismatch it’s because I read one book in July and then didn’t finish a single other book til October! If you’re wondering why you’re only just getting this wrap up, well, I’m lazy. This can’t be news to you. Okay, let’s go!

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine – Gail Honeyman

Totally worth the hype. I took ages to get into this book to be honest. The voice of Eleanor was just annoying me a bit, I didn’t care much for her attitude. But slowly and then all at once you’re sucked into her world and find yourself defending her to other characters. Endearing yet sometimes uncomfortable. Read it.

Little Fires Everywhere – Celeste Ng

My first Celeste Ng and I won’t be going back. Mysterious and intoxicating, this book had me sneaking pages whenever I could. A brilliant story of family and responsibility and privilege and drama. Another book that is worth the hype.

The Year of Magical Thinking – Joan Didion

A wonderful yet unapologetic look at grief. Sometimes I found Didion was downgrading other types of grief for the loss of a partner but I don’t know if this was her intention. If it’s not been your experience you can’t be expected to feel it. Aside from that, very honest, raw and interesting to delve into the endearing stories of her past.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas – John Boyne

A much darker ending than I ever imagined even knowing it was a book about the Holocaust. I guess it shocks you into remembering and honouring everyone who lost their life in the concentration camps. A beautiful, innocent friendship between two boys set in a world arena too harsh for their eyes.

A Caribbean Mystery – Agatha Christie

My first Marple! How is that even possible? I much preferred it to the Poirot I read, please don’t come for me. I enjoyed Miss Marple’s voice and how she can read people even when they think themselves so above her. Of course I didn’t guess the end but I had a great time conspiring throughout.

Dark Days – James Baldwin

Everything I read by James Baldwin I end up loving. Part of the new Penguin Moderns collection, it’s a small book with three of his essays. A great intro to Baldwin’s non-fiction writing. Presents race in America in a very matter-of-fact, no bullshit kind of way. His ideas on race and education I found particularly fascinating. 

The Robber Bridegroom – Brothers Grimm

A little collection of short stories, a quick read and some unsettling characters. Too many stories ended in marriage though, who are we, a Shakespeare comedy? I’d have preferred something more fulfilling but maybe that’s asking too much of its time.

Seashore – The Regrettes