All Consuming : cluricaune

There's nothing about the coffee-shops... (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:48:32 GMT

by Ian McEwan

An ex-photographer and a well known restaurant critic, Molly Lane had been a beautiful, lively and funny lady. Her life had, sadly, been cut short through illness – a condition that had began with something as simple as a tingling in her arm. “Amsterdam” opens in early February, at Molly’s memorial service.

Despite being married to George, Mollie had been a rather prolific lover – she’d had a string of affairs and (apparently) never really cared for her husband. However, for some reason, she’d never actually left him. George is the head of a publishing `empire’, one that operates in the crackpot conspiracy theories sector. His company also own a very small percentage of `The Judge’, a `quality’ newspaper based in London. He appears to be a morose, possessive man – a vaguely ridiculous character, though one who may have genuinely loved his wife. George had cared for Molly himself throughout her illness, rather than installing her in a home.

Among the mourners is Clive Linley, a famous and successful composer who had known Molly from their student days. He had been one of Molly’s former lovers and is possibly a little deluded : he is convinced that he was the only one who had ever truly loved her, and that it should have been him who married her. Clive is currently writing the Millennial Symphony and, although it’s close to completion, it’s something that seems to be causing him a little stress. (A trip to the Lake District may just be the tonic he needs – Clive enjoys hiking, and sometimes visits the area when in need of inspiration). Unfortunately, Clive’s stress levels aren’t helped by vague tingle in his hand…and fears he has the same early symptoms that Molly had shown. Clive feels that Molly’s decline robbed her of her dignity, and – given the opportunity – he believes he would have `helped’ her die. When he decides that he’d want the same thing for himself, there’s only one person he would ask to help him.

Vernon Halliday is Clive’s oldest friend and another of Molly’s ex-lovers. He and Molly had lived together for a year in Paris, though he’s currently based in London. He’s currently the editor of `The Judge’ – a position he’d won by being generally inoffensive, getting wildly lucky with a major scoop and then not being in the wrong place at the wrong time. The previous four editors had been fired for failing to improve the newspaper’s declining sales…Vernon is hoping to avoid their fate, by taking the newspaper towards the tabloid end of the market. Unfortunately, the situation seems to be getting to him a little, and he’s feeling a little stretched. Like Clive, Vernon doesn’t have a very high opinion of George – oddly enough, though, George may be in a position to offer both Vernon and the newspaper a helping hand. When going through Molly’s effects, he’d stumbled across s few tasty photos of Julian Garmony – another on Molly’s ex-lovers, and a high-ranking politician that both Vernon and Clive positively detest…

Garmony is a thoroughly unpleasant individual, a nasty xenophobe who (amazingly) holds the position of Foreign Secretary. (It’s probably the sort of appointment a politician would probably find quite logical. Sadly, and unsurprisingly, he’s also the hot favourite to be the next Prime Minister). He’s strongly in favour of hanging, a punishment he once felt should have been applied to Nelson Mandela. (It’s a position that should make his upcoming trip to South Africa a little spicy). Unfortunately, Clive and Vernon disagree on what should be done with the photos…Vernon is very keen to publishing them, and Garmony could well do with having the rug pulled from under his feet. However, Clive feels that publishing them would be a betrayal of Molly’s trust…

In “Amsterdam”, McEwan presents a collection of characters that aren’t too easy to admire. It’s really very difficult to feel any sympathy for Garmony, given his divisive views. George, Molly’s husband, is the one character we probably should feel sorry for, but – by the book’s end – I was left wondering why she had ever married him to begin with. Clive and Vernon’s friendship fragments as time passes, with Clive (in particular) becoming increasingly deluded as the book progresses. Not great, though a short and easily read book.

A Pair of Resourceful Young Birds (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 22:29:09 GMT

Flight of the Doves

by Walter Macken

Walter Macken, a native of Galway, was born in 1915 and died in his home city at the age of 51. A writer, an actor and a playwright, he is perhaps best known for his novel “Flight of the Doves” – which was adapted for the cinema – and his “Irish Trilogy”. “Flight of the Doves” is one of the two children’s books he wrote, and was first published, posthumously, in 1968.

The Doves of the book’s title are two orphaned children, Finn and Derval Dove. They live in England with their “Uncle” Toby, who is actually their step-father. Toby, once the family’s lodger, married the children’s mother after their father died in an accident. Unfortunately, as the book opens, the children’s mother has been dead for two years – and Toby has not been treating the children at all well. When Toby comes home from work, he expects the house to be clean and tidy and his dinner to be on the table. Once eaten, he’ll head out to the pub and won’t return until the children are in bed. He appears to have a particular dislike for Finn – a twelve year old boy with red hair who regularly gets beaten by his step-father. Derval, the younger of the pair, is a seven year old girl with blonde hair. When Finn becomes afraid that Toby is going to start beating his sister, he decides it’s time to run away. Although he does have a destination in mind – his Granny O’Flaherty’s home in the west of Ireland – he isn’t too sure exactly where she lives. The journey across the sea isn’t made an easier by a notable lack of funds – but the children take off as soon as Toby goes out to the Red Dragon.

When Toby discovers the pair missing the following morning – and realises he’ll have to make his own breakfast – he falls into the depths of despair. Nevertheless, he believes the children will soon return of their own accord and doesn’t notify the police. However, things change when he arrives at work and discovers the children are due to inherit a tidy sum from relatives in America. He realises Finn and Derval may have gone to Ireland, and soon the runaways are being hunted onboth sides of the Irish Sea. Although the children aren’t long in making friends, their journey to Granny O’Flaherty’s isn’t going to be easy – not with the newspaper coverage and a bounty of their heads…

A very easily read and enjoyable children’s book.

To the place where the desert is the ocean... (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 22:28:20 GMT

Void Moon

by Michael Connelly

“Void Moon” is Michael Connelly’s ninth book, and was first published in 2000. It’s only his third book not to feature Harry Bosch, giving a starring role to Cassie Black instead. However, Cassie is a little different to Connelly’s other heroes – instead of a cop, a lawyer, a retired fed or a journalist operating on the ‘right side’ of the law, Cassie is an ex-con currently on parole.

When we meet her, Cassie is working in a car dealership on LA’s Sunset Boulevard. Although she spent time in prison in Nevada, she managed to have her parole transferred to LA and knows she was lucky to get the job. She suspects it’s because the boss – Ray Morales – hopes their relationship will move beyond the professional. Her parole is due to run for two years and, although she’s on minimun supervision and she has a very likeable parole officer in Thelma Kibble, Cassie is starting to get a little twitchy.

Cassie’s past is only given away gradually : exactly what she was convicted for, who Max was and what happened to him and why a five year old girl called Jodie Shaw is so important. Cassie has been keeping a close eye on the Shaw family, and it’s their proposed move to Paris that (apparently) causes Cassie’s twitchiness. She’s maybe a little too honest with Thelma in a parole meeting, even (foolishly) asking about the possibility if seeing out her parole in France. When it’s made clear that isn’t going to happen, her decision is made : one last job, with a big enough dividend to disappear on. She’s barely out of her meeting with Thelma before she’s on the phone to her old contact DH Reilly. DH (as in Dog House) is actually the Leo Renfro’s alias and is someone she had worked closely with in the past. He had also practically raised his step-brother, Max. Roughly two weeks after Cassie makes contact with Leo, he gets back in touch with her : he’s managed a identify a job that matches her requirements. Unfortunately, it sees her return to a place she’d never have wanted to see again : Las Vegas. Her problems with Vegas aren’t limited to personal, however – her new assignment throws up quite a few professional difficulties also.

A very enjoyable book, and – with both Cassie and Thelma Kibble – two very likeable characters. (In fact, both have been given very small cameos in subsequent Harry Bosch books). Cassie presents two mysteries, in a way – her current job and her past life…in particular, why the Shaw family is so important to her. Connelly has been one of the best mystery writers of recent years, and “Void Moon” is no disappointment – very much recommended.

Myron Bolitar, Crimebustin' Sports Agent

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 22:22:00 GMT

Deal Breaker (Myron Bolitar Mysteries)

by Harlan Coben

Coben saw his first book published in 1990. “Deal Breaker” is his third and was first published in 1995. However, it is his first to feature Myron Bolitar.

Myron Bolitar has been a sports agent for lny two years and has only a few clients to his name. Among them are Ricky Lane, a running back for the Jets, and Christian Steele – a footballer fresh out of college and the hottest prospect in years. There is, unfortunately, a touch of tragedy in Steele’s background : eighteen months before the book opens Steele’s fiancee – Kathy Culver – disappeared without a trace from the grounds of Reston University. The story was big news and not just because of Christian’s status as an up-and-coming footballer : Kathy’s sister, Jessica, is also a very famous author. The only clue to the mystery came when Kathy’s underwear was found in a dumpster, apparently covered in blood and semen. However, Kathy is still missing and no-one even knows if she is living or dead…in fact no-body has evem been charged with her disappearance. There had been a certain amount of insinuation that Steele had been involved, but that’s just not a situation Bolitar can take even remotely seriously. The tragedy hasn’t ended there for the Culver family, though. Three nights before the book’s opening, Kathy and Jessica’s father had also been killed – in what the police believe to have been a botched robbery. As if Myron wasn’t involved enough, via his client, it turns out that Jessica is an ex-girlfriend. Things had apparently ended on a sour note, though. As a result, Esperanza Diaz – formerly Little Pocahontas of the Fabulous Ladies of Wrestling circuit and currently Bolitar’s PA – positively despises her.

Things are about to take a slightly difficult turn though : somebody mails a saucy magazine to Christian, with a particular advertisement highlighted. The advert, for a rather risque chatline ($3:99 a minute), features Kathy Culver in the picture. Furthermore, the handwriting on the envelope – which was posted on-campus – is an apparent match for Kathy’s.When Jessica stops by asking for help, the multi-talented young sports agent is dragged even further into the mystery. Jessica thinks there is some connection between Kathy’s disappearance and her father’s death. The cop’s disagree – even her father’s closest friend, “Uncle” Paul Duncan. Naturally, Myron decides to help her out anyway.

An enjoyable enough book overall, though there is quite a bit of daftness to it. Bolitar was a hugely promising basketball player, until his career was destroyed by injury. Despite taking 16 months to walk again, he promptly joined the FBI and reported only to the very highest levels. Furthermore, he is now (amazingly) a third degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Our hero’s ever-faithful sidekick is called Windsor Horne Lockword III, a gentleman who proves to be the deadliest nerd alive. He is also an ex-Fed, and now helps Bolitar out in his new career as an all-action Sports Agent. An easy read, though no classic.

A review of "Last Seen Wearing" (rated 3 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:35:13 GMT

Last Seen Wearing

by Colin Dexter

Colin Dexter was born in 1930 and, over the course of his writing career, has won CWA Gold Dagger and Silver Dagger awards. “Last Seen Wearing” was first published in 1976 and is the second book to feature the famous Inspector Morse.

“Last Seen Wearing” sees Morse and his sidekick, Lewis, assigned to a missing persons case. Just over two years previously, Valerie Taylor – a seventeen year old pupil at a local comprehensive school, had disappeared. The case had been investigated by one of Morse’s colleagues, Chief Inspector Ainley, but was never closed. Morse has now inherited the case following Ainley’s death in a car accident. Although technically a “cold case”, it was one that Ainley had never stopped investigating – albeit unofficially and in his own time, in the latter stages. Ainley was returning from London when he had his car accident – Morse believes he discovered something important there.

The day she disappeared, Valerie had come home for her lunch – although she left to return to school for her afternoon lessons, it seems she never arrived there. However, a letter has now arrived home – apparently from Valerie, saying she’s fine but doesn’t want to be found. According to the postmark, it was posted in London the day after Ainley’s death. Morse, for no clear reason, decides that Valerie is actually dead and the letter is a forgery.

Since Valerie disappeared on the way back to school, Morse and Lewis naturally look into her school-life. Three staff-members, as it turns out, crop up regularly in the investigation. One is the school’s headmaster – who had only been appointed to the position three years previously. (From the book’s prologue, there’s a suspicion he may have had a quick roll in the hay with Valerie on the day of his interview. Naturally, he wouldn’t have known she was one of his prospective pupils at the time). Phillipson is still relatively young – he’s only in his mid-thirties and is married with two young children. The school’s vice-principal, on the other hand, is a single man in his fifties called Baines. He’d been passed over by the school’s Board of Governors for the headmaster’s position, and it’s clear that he and Phillipson don’t get on well together. The final staff member is David Acum, who had only taught in the school for one year – leaving shortly after Valerie had disappeared to take up a teaching position in Wales. Acum had taken Valerie’s last class before she went missing.

While it’s a better book that “Last Bus to Woodstock” – the first in the Morse series – there are still plenty of flaws in “Last Seen Wearing”. Despite working on what was officially a missing persons case, it seemed strange that Morse had no clear photo of Valerie’s face – the clearest shot mentioned appeared alongside a newspaper article. I was a little puzzled how Morse was supposed to recognise Valerie if he found her. I also found it strange that Morse didn’t spend more time talking to Valerie’s school-friends – only one of them, an ex-boyfriend, is even mentioned. Later on, when a murder is actually committed, Morse removes the weapon from the corpse and tosses it aside – taking no interest in fingerprints or forensics. (At this point, I was wondering how he still had a job). Dexter’s style of writing didn’t do much for me either – “I wish we could be naughty together, don’t you ?” and “Watch out you miserable sinner, whoever you are, who did poor Valerie in !” are just a couple of samples. Largely an easy read, though it’s no classic.

The Jinmoti of Bozlen Two (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:18:55 GMT

Consider Phlebas

by Iain M. Banks

Iain Banks was born in Scotland in 1954 and published his first book – “The Wasp Factory” – in 1984. In the years since, he’s won critical acclaim, topped best-seller lists and has even written Science Fiction books under the cunning nom-de-plume ‘Iain M. Banks’. “Consider Phlebas” was first published in 1987, and is the first of his sci-fi novels.

The majority of Banks’ sci-fi novels to date feature the Culture – a symbiotic society, part humanoid and part artificial intelligence. The artificial intelligence element to the Culture can be sub-divided into two parts – Drones and Minds. For the most part, the a Drone’s intelligence will be roughly similar to a humanoids. However, while some drones will be significantly more intelligent, the Culture’s essential work is carried out largely by non-sentient machines. Minds, on the other hand, are significantly more powerful than both humanoids and drones. They tend to act as the controlling intelligence behind, for example, the Culture’s ships and Hubs (artificial habitats). Minds are also largely responsible for making decisions at the very highest levels of society – only a very small number of humanoid Referrers would be intelligent enough to join the process. In “Consider Phlebas”, the Culture is at war with the Idiran Empire. Physically, Idirans are very imposing : they’re about about three metres tall, fully grown, have three legs and are protected by a natural body-armour. They can also survive a great deal of damage, what would be more than enough to kill another species. They are also a deeply religious people and believe in converting as many as possible to the faith – preferably by conquest.

A little strangely, though, the book’s hero isn’t a Culture operative – or even a significant player in the war. Bora Horza Gobuchul is a Changer and works for the Idirans as a spy and a killer. Changers are shapeshifters, and have a couple of very impressive natural defences – including the ability to sweat acid and spit poison. The Changers’ homeworld is an asteroid called Heibohre, which is located within Idiran space . However, he’s not fighting because he’s pro-Idiran – it’s because he’s anti-Culture. In “Consider Phlebas”, Horza is sent to Schar’s World – a Planet of the Dead – to retrieve a Culture Mind. Naturally, the Culture won’t want a Mind to fall into enemy hands – though it won’t be easy for them to retrieve it. Schar’s World is ‘protected’ by the Dra’Azon – an exceptionally powerful race, who won’t allow anyone other than Changers onto the planet. Nevertheless, it won’t be too easy for Horza to complete his mission either. Shortly after receiving his orders from Xoralundra, his Idiran contact,the spaceship on which they are traveling is attacked by a Culture vessel. Xoralundra promptly throws Horza out of an airlock and essentially tells him to hope for a lift. Luckily, the Clear Air Turbulance is passing – a ship that’s staffed neither by Idirans nor Culture, but by spacefaring pirates.

It’s been a long time since I read any sci-fi, and the main reason I picked this up was of how highly I rate Banks’ ‘standard’ fiction. I was slightly taken by surprise that the Culture were (technically) cast as the book’s ‘bad guys. (In a ‘normal’ book, the Idirans would’ve been the ‘bad guys’ – though things don’t always have to be that straightforward when Iain Banks writes a book). Furthermore, while Horza is the book’s hero, there’s nothing villainous about the Culture’s operatives who appear in the book – both Perosteck Balveda and Fal N’geestra are actually very likeable. The book’s only flaw, for me, was the section that featured the Eaters – it really didn’t add to much, and I couldn’t see the point of including it. However, an enjoyable story overall and certainly good enough for me to try a few other Culture books.

A review of "Norwegian Wood"

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 22:45:36 GMT

Norwegian Wood

by Haruki Murakami

Haruki Murakami was born in Kyoto in 1949 but spent most of his youth in Kobe. “Norwegian Wood” was first published in Japan in 1987, and first translated into English in 2000.

Toru Watanabe tells the story, looking back on his days as university student living in Tokyo. His circle of friends was very small, and he appears to have always been a fairly solitary type. Originally from Kobe, Toru only had one real friend at school – Kizuki, who committed suicide at seventeen. He went on to university in Tokyo, where he largely appeared to keep to himself. There, he did – briefly – have a roommate at his dormitary – though the pair had very little in common. (Toru’s roommate is known only as “Storm Trooper” in the book, a nickname gained through his obsession with sanitation). Nagasawa, a diplomacy student at the university, was more an acquaintance than a real friend. He was very intelligent, and came from an influential family – he took Toru under his wing after the pair discovered a common love of “The Great Gatsby”. (No-one else in the dorm had any interest had any interest in the classics). Nevertheless, they did little together other than drink and chase women.

Toru’s two key relationships, however, were both with women. One was Naoko – a Beatles fan and the very delicate one-time girlfriend of Kizuki.The pair meet up again in Tokyo, roughly a year after Kizuki’s death and start spending more and more time together. Eventually, Toru falls for Naoko and, on the evening of Naoko’s twentieth birthday, things get intimate. Unfortunately, the evening proves a little difficult for Naoko to deal with and she takes off – booking herself into a sanitorium in an attempt to deal with her difficulties. The pair keep in touch write to each other, though, and Toru is keen to see her again.

In Naoko’s absence, however, the arrival of Midori Kobayashi complicates things. Like Toru, she studies drama at the university – but she’s very different sort of person to Naoko. Lively and outgoing, she combines her studies with helping her father in his bookshop. Gradually, she and Toru spend more and more times together – and it leaves Toru a little unsure which direction to travel in.

A little frustratingly, the book left me with a couple of questions about some of the characters. Despite only being a minor character, I couldn’t help wondering what happened to Storm Trooper…Similarly, I found myself feeling concerned for Reika, Naoko’s closest friend at the sanitorium – and hoping that things worked out for her. Most of all, there’s no indication of how Toru’s life progressed, between the book’s final page and the flight to Germany that sparked his memories. However, it’s an excellent book overall, and well worth reading.

A review of "Very Good, Jeeves! (Collector's Wodehouse)" (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 22:15:03 GMT

Very Good, Jeeves! (Collector's Wodehouse)

by P.G. Wodehouse

“Very Good Jeeves” is the third book to be ‘completely’ dedicated to PG Wodehouse’s famous duo – Bertie Wooster and his valet, Jeeves. The book, first published in 1930, is a collection of eleven short stories that had previously been published in Strand Magazine.

The book features Wodehouse’s best known creations : Bertie Wooster and his valet, Jeeves. Bertie is the book’s wealthy, good-natured and rather dim narrator. He’s a member of the “idle rich” and, rather than having to work for a living, lives off an allowance provided by his uncle. He spends much of his time in the bar-room of the Drones Club, is fond of the occasional wager and has an appalling dress sense. Luckily, Bertie has Jeeves, to look after him. Without Jeeves, Bertie’s life would be a mess : he makes an excellent hangover cure, his bets usually win and is intelligent enough to rescue Bertie from nearly any situation. He disapproves of Bertie’s more garish items of clothing, and will – occasionally – take it upon himself to deal with the offending item.

Bertie’s fearsome Aunt Agatha plays a small part in some of the stories, but the consequences tend to be immense. Agatha, who regularly takes it upon herself to decide what’s best for Bertie, holds her dog, Macintosh, in higher esteem than her nephew. It’s not only Bertie’s life she interferes with, though. Te story I enjoyed most centred on Bertie’s Uncle George – who’d been prevented from marrying the love of his life (a barmaid) by Agatha many years earlier. Now, George has set his sights on marrying a waitress – and Agatha, once again, has decided this must be stopped. Needless to say, she decides to drag Bertie into it.

Tuppy Glossop also turns up in a few stories – Tuppy and Bertie were at school together, though following a prank at the Drones Club, Bertie is in the mood for a spot of revenge. However, Bertie’s cousin Angela is very taken with Tuppy and, when the course of true loves doesn’t run running smooth, Aunt Dahlia drafts Bertie and Jeeves to help. Tuppy is also a nephew of Sir Roderick Glossop, who holds the view that Bertie is insane – largely thanks to Bingo Little, it has to be said. Unfortunately, Sir Roderick turns up again in this book, and Bertie doesn’t do much to improve Sir Roderick’s opinion of him. (Bingo, now married, also appears in a couple of stories).

There are also a couple of appearances for Bobbie Wickham. Where Bertie regularly finds himself accidentally engaged, Bobbie is – very unusually – someone Bertie actually wants to marry. However, Jeeves doesn’t approve – while she is a little free-spirited and something of a practical joker, I’m not entirely sure Jeeves was being entirely altruistic in ‘rescuing’ Bertie from her womanly snares. (There’s also a brief appearance of another girlfriend – an artist called Gwladys Pendlebury. In this case, Aunt Dahlia joins Jeeves in disapproving. Luckily, Bertie also has to deal with a rival by the name of Pim).

A very easy and enjoyable read, certainly recommended.

Today's Chips Today (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 22:13:19 GMT

The van

by Roddy Doyle

Roddy Doyle was born in Dublin in 1958 and saw his first novel, “The Commitments”, published in 1987. It was later adapted for the big screen, a version that saw Star Trek’s Colm Meaney and a very young Andrea Corr among the cast. “The Van” was first published in 1991 and is the final book in his “Barrytown Trilogy”. It was also nominated for that year’s Booker Prize.

The book opens in late 1989, and there have been a few changes in the Rabbite house since “The Snapper”. Jimmy Jr has now moved out, and is living with his girlfriend Aoife, in Clontarf. (He took his video recorder with him, but still calls round regularly to get his washing done). Leslie, on the other hand, has disappeared – to England, Jimmy Senior suspects – having fairly consistently got himself into trouble. The remainder of the family still live at home – including Sharon and her daughter, Gina. Darren is currently studying for his Leaving Cert and should do well, while the twins are rather sneakily learning how to smoke. Veronica, the mother of the family, is taking a couple of Leaving Cert subjects at night class. Jimmy Senior, on the other hand, has lost his job – and he isn’t coping too well with being unemployed.

Jimmy has, more or less, learnt to put the day in – he spends quite a bit of time in the library (he doesn’t think much of Alexandre Dumas) and the pitch and putt course (his game has improved dramatically). He has, understandably, had to cut back on his time in the pub…however, he misses the company of his friends more than the beer. With his self-esteem tumbling, there’s an occasional flash of anger and he even starts eying up the younger ladies. Jimmy’s best friend, Bimbo, then loses his job at the bakery. It’s not something Jimmy is exactly happy about – or, at least, so he tells himself – but Bimbo’s company brightens up Jimmy’s day. However, when Bimbo uses part of his redundancy payment to buy a fish and chip van, Jimmy is brought in as a partner. It could just bring back Jimmy’s self respect – though they do say its a mistake to mix business and pleasure.

A very enjoyable, easily read book – and one that generated a touch of nostalgia. The chip van made a fortune for the partnership during the 1990 World Cup – ah, the memories ! – and thirtsomething still on television. While the language is (authentically) ‘colourful’, it’s generally a good-natured book and (despite Jimmy’s troubles) there’s plenty of humour. Well worth reading.

Sally, Sailors and Sparkling Stones

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:30:19 GMT

The Ruby in the Smoke

by Philip Pullman

“The Ruby in the Smoke” was first published in 1985, and was the first of Philip Pullman’s books to feature Sally Lockhart. It was adapted for television in 2006 by the BBC, with Billie Piper – formerly of Dr Who – playing Sally.

The book opens in October 1872, when Sally Lockhart is only sixteen years old and has recently been orphaned. She never knew her mother, and her father – a former officer in the British Army and co-owner of the shipping firm Lockhart & Selby – has drowned in Singapore on company business. Naturally, she had been very close to her father, who had also taken personal responsibility for her education . (As a result, she knew little of French, English Literature, Art and Music though few other young ladies would have matched her in military tactic, the affairs of the Stock Market , military tactics and book-keeping. His most useful advice, however, was probably “keep your powder dry”). Sally, who also suffers from an unpleasant recurring nightmare, now lives with Caroline Rees, a thoroughly dislikable aunt.

When we first meet her, Sally has recently received a cryptic letter. It warns her of something called the Seven Blessings, and that somebody called Marchbanks will help her. She first visits Lockhart & Selby’s offices – there, she hopes to find out not only who Marchbanks is, but also what the Seven Blessings are. Unfortunately, the the firm’s secretary – Mr Higgs – can’t help her : he suffers a heart attack and dies the moment she asks the question. She doesn’t have to wait too long for help, though : Marchbanks, a former army officer, and an ex-sailor called Bedwell are both looking for her – and they both have useful information. This information puts Sally on a collision course with a dangerous villain called Mrs Holland . Thankfully she will have help – most notably from Frederick Garland, his sister Rosa and Jim Taylor – a very resourceful office-boy at Lockhart & Selby’s.

A short, easy and enjoyable read – though, given the constant references to opium use, it mightn’t be to everyone’s tastes.

The Guarding Dark

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 23:06:34 GMT

Thud!

by Terry Pratchett

“Thud” is thirty-fourth novel in Terry Pratchett’s hugely popular Discworld series, was first published in 2005 and is the seventh to focus on Sam Vimes and Ankh-Morpork’s City Watch.

Sam is the Commander of the City Guard, and – having married Lady Ramkin – a member of the nobility. He’s also recently become a father and has made reading “Where’s My Cow” to his son every evening at six o’clock his top priority. Despite being a devoted father, however, he mightn’t necessarily be considered a typical hero : he doesn’t like Assassins (they keep trying to kill him), Kings (it’s an old family traditions : even in chess, he supports the pawns) and the Undead (particularly vampires).

For the most part, Ankh-Morpork’s ethnic groupings are already well-represented in the Watch. Sam’s most capable officer is Captain Carrot – who was born human, although raised as a dwarf. Carrot is an incredibly innocent and very honest character and is widely believed to be Ankh-Morpork’s rightful King. (Sam has – to date – refrained from beheading him). Carrot’s girlfriend, Angua, is also a member of the City Guard – though, being a werewolf, she also shares Sam’s misgivings about vampires. Sergeant Detritus, a troll who deals roughly with troll drug-dealers, seems a natural – not to mention likable – cop, though Sergeant Colon and Corporal Nobbs (a confirmed slacker and probably human) are the most experienced officers. Cheery Littlebottom is an ex-alchemist dwarf, who more or less founded forensics department. (Cheery left the Guild of Alchemists after, accidentally, blowing up the Guild Council). However, for the first time, “Thud” sees a vampire apply to join the Watch. The vampire in question, Sally von Humpeding, is fortunately a Black Ribboner – meaning she abstains from drinking blood. However, her presence naturally makes a few people uncomfortable – most notably Sam and Angua.

The Battle of Koom Valley was fought many years ago between trolls and dwarves and is quite possibly unique – in that both sides were ambushed by the other. Although there is always a certain amount of tension between the two species throughout the year, things tend tend to become a little worse as the battle’s anniversary comes around. Things have been even worse recently, though with the arrival of several Grags the previous month. A Grag is a deep-downer and a master of dwarfish lore – naturally, they are very influential in Ankhh-Morpork’s dwarfish community. One of them – Grag Hamcrusher – has naturally been stirring up a great deal of trouble. Naturally, when Hamcrusher is murdered, Sam feels it’s the City Watch’s responsibility to investigate. The dwarves, who are quite happy to blame a troll, don’t agree.

As is things weren’t difficult enough, “The Battle of Koom Valley” by Methodia Rascal is also stolen from the Royal Art Museum. The (incredibly detailed) painting itself is priceless, despite the fact that Rascal was somewhat insane. (He believed he was being relentlessly pursued by a chicken). There are also rumours of a mysterious Mr Shine amongst the trolls – a diamond geezer, if the graffiti is to be believed. Worst of all, the Patrician has unleashed a government inspector – Mr A.E. Pessimal – on the Watch.

Another cracking book from Pratchett – as usual there’s plenty of humour and with a great storyline ‘underneath’ it all. Excellent stuff, highly recommended !

It's Not About The Drugs (rated 5 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 00:41:17 GMT

The Official Tour De France: Centennial 1903-2003

2003 saw the 100th birthday of the Tour de France, the world’s most famous bike race. This book was released at the beginning of the centenary year as part of the race’s birthday celebrations.

The race was created by a newspaper called L’Auto, the forerunner of today’s sports newspaper L’Equipe. The race’s organisers worked closely with L’Equipe in the production of this book. Thanks to L’Equipe’s involvement, the book had the pick of a huge amount of material dating back to the Tour’s inception. The collection of photographs used is incredible and is the main strength of the book. The Tour is a tough enough race today, but being able to see what sort of conditions and equipment the cyclists had to endure in the early days…..well, phrases like ‘seeing is believing’ and ‘every picture tells a thousand stories’ could’ve been formed with these pages in mind. It was also nice being able to finally put a face to some of the famous names – the likes of Coppi, Bobet and Anquetil.

Essentially, the book begins in 1903, and has something similar to a chapter for each edition of the race. The level of detail varies from year to year – the years where there was a ‘big’ story are generally given the luxury of an extra couple of pages. These would include, for example, 1998’s Festina Affair, Merckx’s and Hinault’s first wins (1969 and 1978 respectively), the deaths of Tom Simpson (1967) and Fabio Casartelli (1995) and the completion of the race’s first hat-trick by Philippe Thys in 1920. Inevitably, some races are comparatively skimmed over. It would’ve been nice if, for example, the 1960 race had been given some extended coverage also, when Roger Reviere crashed in the mountains and broke his back.

For the most part, the writing centres on the battle for the yellow jersey. L’Auto was responsible for the creation of the famous yellow jersey. In 1919, it arranged for a special jersey to be presented to the race leader so spectators could easily identify him. As the newspaper was printed on yellow paper, they chose yellow as the colour for the jersey. Of course, this would’ve done no harm to the newspaper sales either.

Little is said, however, about the battles for the race’s other jerseys. The King of the Mountains (polka dot) jersey was introduced in 1933, while the Sprinter’s (green) jersey was introduced 20 years later, in 1953. They are given some coverage in the stats section at the back of the book, but really only mentioned in passing throughout the book. The combined and red jerseys that were formerly a part of the Tour don’t even get a mention in the stats section – though the combined jersey, at least, does make an appearance in one or two photographs. These are only minor quibbles, it has to be said. These omissions are understandable, given all that has happened in this race over the years, and that there was always going to be a limited amount of space available ! This is an incredible book, one that should be owned by anyone who is even vaguely interested in sport.

Fail to Prepare - Prepare to Fail (rated 5 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 00:26:00 GMT

Red Mist

by Conor O'Callaghan

n 2002, soccer’s World Cup Finals were played in Japan and South Korea. Following a two-year qualifying campaign, thirty-two countries were involved. While countries such as Brazil and France were among the pre-tournament favorites, the Republic of Ireland had qualified for only the third time in their history.

Ireland’s team captain leading up to the finals was Roy Keane, considered by many to be the country’s greatest ever player. While soccer is a team sport, Ireland simply wouldn’t have been capable of qualifying for the Finals without him. Keane, like all the other members of Ireland’s squad, has spent the bulk of his playing career in England – where he has won the Premiership and the F.A. Cup (English soccer’s top competitions) several times. He also has a winners medal from the Champions League (Europe’s top competition) in his collection. A very focused and determined player, he believes it is necessary to train, eat and rest properly to perform at the highest level.

The events that led up to the World Cup Finals that year, however, must have left him feeling disillusioned with the international set-up. The FAI (the organisation in charge of Irish soccer) had decided that Saipan would be used as the pre-tournament base. After all, it had a very nice hotel. Unfortunately, the team arrived to discover the FAI had brought no soccer balls or training gear – which made training a little difficult. Furthermore, Keane, as captain, wasn’t too impressed with the attitude of some of his team-mates; there have been suggestions of late nights and heavy drinking (and I don’t mean isotonic fluids). Furthermore, when the training equipment finally arrived, he was unhappy that some were allowed to skip the scheduled training sessions. Keane’s anger at what was happening around him led to a huge argument with the squad’s coach, Mick McCarthy. It seems that McCarthy found Keane’s attitude unacceptable and reservations without foundation; as a result, he dismissed Keane from the squad and sent him home.

The story was huge, and Ireland was divided. A large part of the Irish population bizarrely agreed with McCarthy. Vilified by many in the media, Keane was labelled a traitor. Some made claims about what he’d said to McCarthy. He denied making the most controversial remark, a denial supported by Niall Quinn – another player who’d actually backed McCarthy’s position. Keane, however, did have his supporters – among them, the population of Cork City and Conor O’Callaghan. In this book, O’Callaghan looks back to the events of Saipan, the reaction of the Irish people and its effect on him. He was involved in any number of arguments defending Keane – his barber was one of his favorite sparring partners – while the situation left his seven-year-old son thoroughly confused. Like Steve Staunton – who was appointed Ireland’s captain after Keane was dismissed – O’Callaghan was brought up in Dundalk. Staunton, who is now the Ireland manager and an unmitigated disaster in the role, was another player who’d backed McCarthy at a press conference. One of the funniest incidents takes place at a street party after his neighbour returned home – O’Callaghan made sure his neighbour knew not everyone was happy with his role.

I enjoyed this book quite a bit, but I’d imagine it has a limited appeal. There’d need to be some interest in soccer, and it will mean more if the reader followed the 2002 World Cup. (Having said that, it probably won’t be enjoyed so much by those who supported Mick McCarthy). If you’re interested, other books that cover the events of Saipan include “Laptop Dancing and the Nanny Goat Mambo: A Sports Writer’s Year” by Tom Humphries and the autobiographies of Niall Quinn and Roy Keane.

A story about "Super Bock"

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 22:58:04 GMT

Super Bock

If Nelly Furtado were a beer, she’d be Super Bock. (Portuguese and tasty).

It is also , apparently, Wayne Rooney’s favourite beer.

Why I want to consume "Glorious-the Singles 1997-2007-Special Edition"

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 22:51:07 GMT

Glorious-the Singles 1997-2007-Special Edition

10 years of hits from the very gorgeous Australian.

Even better, the version I picked up came with a bonus DVD of her videos. Oooooooooooohhhhhhhhh, yesssssssssssssss.

The Very Maws of Doom (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:31:27 GMT

The Rotters' Club

by Jonathan Coe

“The Rotters’ Club” was first published in 2001, and went on to win Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize. It’s set in 1970s Birmingham, and incorporates a number of real-life people, places and events into the back-story – including the Birmingham Pub Bombing (which led to the imprisonment of the Birmingham Six), the infamous British Leyland plant, the Unions and the inevitable strikes, Enoch Powell, the National Front and various other similar factions and the changes in musical fashion – most notably, from prog to punk rock.

The book tells the story of Ben Trotter’s life at secondary achool, and opens in 1973. Ben has one older sister, Lois, and a younger brother, Paul and all three attend King Williams School – quite a prestigious establishment, though seen as a school for “toffs” by the city’s working class. Of Ben’s two siblings, Lois is much more likeable – and, as it turns out, a great deal more unfortunate. She starts dating Malcolm – generally just referred to as ‘Hairy Guy’ – shortly after the book opens. (Hairy Guy proves to be a big influence on Ben’s musical taste). Paul, Ben’s younger brother, generally tends to be a poisonous, spiteful brat. Among Ben’s friends at school are Philip Chase, Duggie Anderton and Sean Harding. Like Ben’s father, Duggie’s father also works at British Leyland. However, where Ben’s father is management, Duggie’s father is a shop steward for the Union and a committed socialist. Ben, like every other boy at school, is hopelessly in love with Cicely Boyd. It’s a pity, really, as he would have been much better off with the very likeable Claire Newman. (Meanwhile, Claire’s sister – Miriam – is having an affair with Duggie’s dad as the book opens).

The story is mostly told by Sophie – Ben’s niece and Lois’ daughter – looking back to the 1970s. Occasionally, some of the characters tell part of the story in their own words – a short story by Ben himself, a speech given by Duggie, sections of Lois’ diary, the editorials of the school newspaper – even, at one point, a letter written to Ben by another character. On the whole it is a very readable, very enjoyable book – the only sections that didn’t work for me were the introduction and the conclusion – featuring Sophie and Patrick. (In fact, the introduction was so bad I nearly didn’t bother with the rest of the book). The book also, apparently holds the record for the longest sentence in English literature – Coe would’ve been better off just using punctuation, and forgetting about the record books, but it’s not really that big a deal. Good enough for me to keep an eye out for its sequel – “The Closed Circle”, which was released in 2004 and picks up the story in 1990s.

Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum (rated 5 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:08:51 GMT

Treasure Island (Penguin Classics)

by Robert Louis Stevenson

RL Stevenson was born in 1850, and died in 1894. “Treasure Island” was first published in 1883, though was originally written for the amusement of Stevenson’s stepson, Lloyd Osbourne.

Set in the 1700s, the book’s hero is Jim Hawkins. Jim is, apparently, an only child whose parents run the Admiral Benbow – a quiet inn, though with a good reputation, not far from Bristol. His troubles begin with the arrival of a mysterious sailor – a rather intimidating, poorly dressed and generally filthy character, though not one who was short of money. He’s reluctant to give his name, though claims to hold the rank of captain, and he generally says little. However, occasionally his tongue is loosened a little by his fondness for rum – upon which he would either burst into song or tell the most terrifying stories. At the mysterious sailor’s request, meanwhile, Jim keeps an eye out for another salty old sea dog the nameless captain seems keen to avoid : the unwanted visitor’s most notable feature is his one leg.

Things change with the arrival of an even nastier sailor named Black Dog. He’s obviously acquainted with the Admiral Benbow’s resident sailor – whose name, Billy Bones, is soon revealed – though they’re not on the best of terms. Things turn nasty, one thing leads to another and before you can say “oh, arrr”, Billy has died of a stroke. Jim and his mother quickly rifle Billy’s sea chest – he’d left a substantial bar bill, and Mrs Hawkins meant to collect payment – though among his possessions they also find a mysterious sealed packet. When eventually opened, the packet proves to hold treasure map of a notorious pirate called Captain Flint. Shortly afterwards, Jim joins Squire Trelawney and Dr Livesey on a mission to retrieve the treasure. Unfortunately, their ship proves to be manned by a crew of treacherous pirates – including the one-legged Long John Silver…

A very easily read, enjoyable book and one that (presumably) has had a huge impact on how we still see pirates : treasure maps where X marks the spot, one-legged salty old sea dogs with parrots that scream “pieces of eight”. Highly recommended.

A netsuke monkey and a twelve sided thruppeny bit (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 16:00:49 GMT

The Business

by Iain Banks

Iain Banks was born in Scotland in 1954 and published his first book – “The Wasp Factory” – in 1984. In the years since, he’s won critical acclaim, topped best-seller lists and has even written Science Fiction books under the cunning nom-de-plume ‘Iain M. Banks’. “The Business” was first published in 1999, and is his tenth non sci-fi book.

The origins of the Business predate Christianity, and it – technically – owned the Roman Empire for an exceptionally short spell. (It turned out to be something of a mistake, and is considered to be the Business’ most public mistake). The world headquarters re at Chateau d’Oex, in Switzerland, where there are – allegedly – some rather interesting items in their vaults. (These are rumoured to include a book that might just have made it into the Bible and some rather erotic doodlings sketched by Michelangelo). Although the Business has ‘understandings’ with several states and regimes, it is now planning to ‘buy’ its own country – allowing for a seat on the United Nations and diplomatic immunity for its senior executives. Officially, the country being considered if Fenua Uans, a small island in the Pacific.

Kate Telman is senior executive officer, third level with the Business. She started with Security, though has been keeping an eye on technology trends in recent years – luckily, her suggestions on where to invest have been paying off significantly. (As a result, she reached Level Three a good deal more quickly than she had dared hope). Kate is thirty eight years old and was born in Scotland, but holds joint British – US citizenship. Although she is currently on sabbatical, she has been with the organisation since she left school. She had been effectively groomed for the Business by Elizabeth Telman since childhood, following a chance meeting on the roadside in 1968. Elizabeth adopted Kate after her natural mother died, four years later. Now, with Elizabeth also dead, Freddy Ferrindonald is the closest thing to family she has left. Freddy, a step-brother of Elizabeth’s, is also a high-ranking Business employee, not to mention exceptionally rich and just a little odd. He lives at Blysecrag House, which might just qualify as a stately home. (It has three hundred rooms and its cellars extend for two miles). The pair certainly get on very well together, and Kate admits to being very fond of Freddy.

Blysecrag is soon to be playing host to a very high-level meeting and some general hedonism – Kate is rather excited (and relieved) to have been invited. Unffortunately, Prince Suvinder Dzung from Thulan will also be among the other guests. Suvinder is a noted admirer of Kate’s, but the admiration is entirely one way. Kate prefers Stephen Buzetski, another Business executive – unfortunately, he is proving to be stubbornly loyal to his wife. Events at Blysecrag lead to Kate doing a little more travelling and attending a few more meetings – leading to an offer she never seriously expected and didn’t necessarily want. However, as time goes by, she becomes increasingly suspicious that the more senior executives are not being entirely straight about things…

Generally, I’ve found if a book has the name “Iain Banks” on the cover it’s well worth reading. “The Crow Road” and “Whit” would both safely be included in my “10 Favourite Books of All Time”, while “Canal Dreams” and “The Wasp Factory” would probably be knocking loudly on the door. In all those books, Banks has developed a strong ‘lead’ character whose past has contributed as much to the book as the ‘current’ events of the story. In comparison, “The Business” is a little weak : Kate’s past isn’t developed in the way Prentice McHoan’s or Frank Cauldhame’s are developed, while the story’s ‘current’ events – meetings, parties and sightseeing – aren’t quite as absorbing as the events of “Whit” and “Canal Dreams”. However, “The Business” is still an Iain Banks book : even on an off-day, he’ll tell a story a good deal more readable and a great deal more enjoyable than your average writer is capable of producing.

Bad Medicine

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 00:13:58 GMT

Roadkill (Kinky Friedman Novels (Paperback))

by Kinky Friedman

“Roadkill” is Kinky Friedman’s tenth novel and and was first published in 1997. As with his other books, Kinky has cast himself as the amateur-PI hero – though he doesn’t take too many liberties. The book’s Kinky (unsurprisingly) is a cigar-smoking, cat-loving, espresso-guzzling, whiskey-drinking, ex-country and western performer. As usual, Kinky isn’t the only ‘real’ person to appear in the book : Rambam, Ratso and McGovern – Kinky’s ‘Village Irregulars’ – have all been based on actual friends. While the Village Irregulars turn up in most of Kinky’s books, “Roadkill” provides one very notable, non-recurring guest star : Willie Nelson.

As the book opens, it’s clear that Kinky is just not going to have a good day. The fact that his career as a PI has taken a slight downturn, not to mention the continuing absence of Stephanie Dupont (she’s on silent running in Florida), is causing the Kinster a certain amount of misery. However, it’s the conversation he has with Antonio the Indian that adds a healthy dose of panic to his misery. Antonio, who is looking out of the mirror that Kinky is looking into, suggests that now is perhaps the right time for taking a little trip. (Given that Kinky’s talking to a figment of his imagination, this isn’t necessarily bad advice…even if it’s the figment of his imagination who’s providing the advice). Not long afterwards, Kinky receives a phone call from his old friend Willie Nelson. Spookily, Willie is phoning from his tour bus and wants the Kinkster to join him on his travels. Naturally, Kinky packs his bags and hits the road…though it soon becomes clear that Willie’s life is in danger and he might just need the services of a skilled PI.

“Roadkill” is a very enjoyable, easily read book. Like everything else I’ve read by Kinky, it’s not an entirely serious ‘whodunnit’ and it includes plenty of the trademark one-liners. However, he does occasionally wander off-topic and it’s maybe a little more introspective in places than usual. Nevertheless, the book is anything other than a disappointment – if you’ve enjoyed any of Kinky’s other books, you should also enjoy this one.

The Commoners Strikes Back ! (rated 5 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 18:14:58 GMT

The Golem's Eye (The Bartimaeus Trilogy, Book 2)

by Jonathan Stroud

The second part of The Bartimaeus Trilogy, “The Golem’s Eye” continues the story began in “The Amulet of Samarkand”. Like the first instalment, the majority of the action is set in a mostly recognisable London – admittedly, with a few noticeable changes. The Empire (which still exists), having already defeated the Czech Republic, is now considering war with the North American colonies. All the same, some Czech spies are still operating in England, and the Czech immigrant community is viewed with suspicion. Magicians have been the ruling class since Gladstone’s time, holding all positions of power. Rather than wands and potions, these magicians derive their power from their ability to summon and control a variety of demons – for example, afrits, djinn and imps. Meanwhile the non-magical human masses are referred to as commoners – some of whom have formed a very troublesome resistance.

Nearly three years have passed since the events of “The Amulet of Samarkand”. Nathaniel (more widely known as John Mandrake) is now apprenticed to Jessica Whitwell, the Security Minister, and works at the Department of Internal Affairs. His boss, Julius Tallow, is a typical magician : cruel, arrogant and self-serving, he would happily throw another (such as Nathaniel) to the wolves if it meant saving his own hide. (These same qualities, with extra ambition, have also become more pronounced in Nathaniel). However, since Tallow has more problems than he’s aware of, Nathaniel’s main rivals are the Chief of Police (Henry Duvall) and his assistant (Jane Farrar).

Nathaniel has been put in charge of pursuing the Resistance, a group of commoners who oppose the Magicians’ Rule. Generally, their attacks have been limited to small-scale thefts, nothing that would’ve left Nathaniel under any great pressure. However, the night before Founder’s Day (Gladstone’s Birthday), a number of shops are attacked and practically destroyed. Policemen were killed, while a number of demons and search spheres used in investigate are missing. However, there are no indications the attack involved the use of magic – although Nathaniel is far from convinced, the Resistance are the most obvious culprits. Under no illusion that results are required, he realises he has to summon Bartimaeus again.

Bartimaeus (the fourth-level djinn summoned by Nathaniel) is caustic, irreverent and hopelessly vain – he boasts about the walls he built at Uruk and Karnak, but never mentions his work at Jericho. While he wasn’t too fond of Nathaniel when they first met, he is even less impressed with his master in this book : in fact, he is determined to let Nathaniel down whenever and wherever possible. The last time the duo worked together, they briefly stumbled across three of the Resistance’s members – a small group, led by a girl called Kitty. In this instalment, they share the spotlight with Kitty – a commoner with a limited natural resistance to magic.

While Kitty’s introduction reduces the amount of time Bartimaeus features, it gives some indication of how the commoners are treated and why there is a Resistance. It means fewer wisecracks (Bartimaeus is the book’s funniest character), but it adds to the story and action significantly. The focus from one chapter to another switches between the characters, though the story never stalls. Stroud writes Nathaniel’s and Kitty’s stories (“Kitty and her parents watched him in silence”), while the djinni tells his own (“I could tell it was Prague as soon as I materialised”). “The Golem’s Eye” is very easily read and very enjoyable – but I would recommend starting with “The Amulet of Samarkand”.

A review of "Hard Station" (rated 4 stars)

nobody@allconsuming.net (cluricaune) — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 18:04:56 GMT

Hard Station

by Paul Brady

Born and raised in Strabane, Northern Ireland, Paul Brady is one of Ireland’s most highly regarded singer-songwriters. His songs have been covered by artists such as Santana, Bonnie Riatt and Tina Turner, while he has recorded with the likes of Eric Clapton, Loudon Wainwright III and Larry Mullen Jr. Brady is probably best known as an Irish folk / trad artist. His recording career began in the 1960s as a member of the Johnstons, before joining Planxty in the 1970s – a group whose members also included Christy Moore and Andy Irvine. Between 1976 and 1978, he worked with Irvine, producing an album that is still regarded as a folk classic.

“Hard Station” was released in 1981, three years after his solo folk album “Welcome Here Kind Stranger”. It has eight tracks, all self-penned, and was Brady’s first non-trad release. It has also been referred to, in some quarters, as a classic in Irish rock. The opening track, “Crazy Dreams”, is one of the album’s better songs – a cheerful, up-tempo song that was released as a single. (You might also want to check out Maura O’Connell’s version, on her “Just In Time” album). For me, the album’s other standout tracks are “Hard Station” and “Nothing But The Same Old Story” – these songs aren’t quite so cheery though. “Hard Station” tells the story of someone totally out of luck. “Nothing But The Same Old Story”, meanwhile, deals with an Irish immigrant’s experiences in London.

“Hard Station” would sit comfortably in my all-time list of favourite albums and it showcases Brady’s songwriting abilities superbly. However, it is probably something of an acquired taste and his other albums probably give a better indication of his playing abilities. My advice ? Take a chance on it – I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.