01: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey
This was an impeccably written novel. I had seen the film prior to reading, so I had a fair idea of what to expect as far as the storyline went, but I found that the novel delved much deeper into the mind of the characters. The ending didn’t shock me as much as it probably should have (again, because I had previously seen the film) but it did leave me unsettled. My best friend borrowed the book soon after and she said it “reinstated her faith in good quality writing”. So there you go.
02: White Teeth by Zadie Smith
Two of my girlfriends had suggested I read this book before I embarked on the challenge, and when I saw it on the list I was more than eager to get stuck into it. I really loved this book. I loved the characters, I loved the twists and turns of the storyline and I loved Zadie’s style of writing. I am looking forward to reading more of her work once I’ve made my way through the book list.
03: The Crying of Lot 49 by Thomas Pynchon
I couldn’t get into this book at all. I found the style of writing distracting, and felt no connection or empathy for any of the characters. Thankfully it was a quick read. In my honest opinion, don’t bother!
I am halfway through Atonement by Ian McEwan and loving it so far… I have a few other books from the list sitting on my shelf waiting to be read, so hopefully with Mr B travelling for work again soon I will have some time to get stuck in to some more reading.
