The book was well written, the characters were really strong, I tried to enjoy it; however, I don’t think it was 100% able. The problem was I hated Wilberforce. He was so empty, so horrible. He never took, or had to take responsibility for himself—and I don’t like that in people real or imaginary.

Without question, this is one of the best novels of the 20th century. The devil and his crew come to Moscow for their annual ball and play with the citizens of the town—all deserving of their rewards—rewarding some, punishing others.

Its funny, timeless, political, questions the nature of good and evil all at once. If you can, read this book!

This book is the story of a young teenage boy, Sam, who has a terminal disease. Its written as a diary and the voice is incredibly authentic. You really understand the final months of this boys life.

I really recommend it.

p.s. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this book.

Very cleverly written as a series of journal entries, letters and newspaper articles, this is the story of a man’s journey towards faith and love wrapped up in the tale of building a salmon fishery in the Yemen desert tied up in the UK’s middle eastern politics.

I loved this book, but I have to say, I don’t completely understand the influence that John had on his parents, at least from his narrow view. Also, what exactly his psychological issues are?

Having read nearly all of Bryson’s works, this is one of his biopics, looking at his early childhood in Des Monies, Iowa in the 1950’s and 60’s. He moves easily about from describing people and places to give you a real sense of the town to laugh out loud funny stories.

The short coming of the book would have to be the lack of narrative about the Thunderbolt Kid theme and in general narrative through the book. Its really a collection of stories, not a path. The end just sort of ends. He rushed through his high school years, reminisces over the changing of the community fixtures and bomb, the story is over. Much like the fading in the book Walk in the Woods.

But if you like Bryson’s style and humour, you will like this too.

I think Giorgio is a superb chef with a real understanding of what is important about ingredients (key), creativity (less important than good) and eating (social).

We were lucky enough to hear him speak at the Richmond (London, UK) Book Festival and meet him. He was raised in a family that ran a hotel (1 star Michelin) with a restaurant and where family was important and simple and local was best. He is funny, absurd and irreverent.

The book has some of these stories, but the passion for the recipes is what really matters. If you are a foodie… this is a great book.

If you like Modest Mouse even a little bit, I would say this is by far their best album. Its a live album and you can really hear the creativity and musicianship of the band.

Amazing.