Books Read 1st quarter 2013

 

My goal for 2013 is to read 30 books. After failing to reach my goal of 40 books last year, I thought I would choose a more realistic goal {see Good Reads Reading Challenge widget in sidebar}. My reading selection has been very 20th century classic, although that isn't my usual choice:

The Child in Time by Ian McEwan: I started this one in 2012. I am a big fan of Ian McEwan, but I didn't really like this book. It's about a child that gets snatched in a supermarket, but rather than this being the central plot, the book focuses on childhood. For example, periods of Stephen's childhood and the regression back to childhood of his friend, Charles.

Mary Anne by Daphne du Maurier: Mary Anne is based on Daphne du Maurier's great great Grandmother. She is born to a very poor family but is bright and clever and determined not to be like her mother. She marries to escape her humble life, but when this fails, she is forced to find a living to support her and her children. She uses her beauty and guile to become mistress to the Duke, although she is not paid for her services, and is forced into a cycle of debt as she climbs the social ladder.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath: Don't be put off by the fact that this is about Esther, her descent into madness and her journey out of it, as it actually has some comedic moments and is wonderful to read. Many of the key moments in this novel, echo Sylvia's own experiences.

Tender is the Night by F Scott Fitzgerald: When I was a teenager, I was in love with F Scott Fitzgerald, and so this is not my first reading of Tender is the Night. It tells the story of Dr Dick Diver and his former mental patient, now wife, Nicole. Although at times it can be a heavy read, it is worth persevering.

Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh: The story of Charles Ryder and his dealings with Brideshead House and the Marchmain family, initially through Sebastian, a rather eccentric friend at University, and subsequently through Julia whom he is engaged to. This book took me an absolute age to read but I am glad to have read it.

So, five books down so far this year. I am now reading One Day. What are you reading?

Love Mrs Jones x