The Homemade Heart

Cookery Calendar Challenge- October

Welcome to the Cookery Calendar Challenge for October. If you would like to join the challenge this month, please take a quick look at the Cookery Calendar Challenge page, which will tell you everything you need to know.

My chosen recipe book for September was 'Stirring Slowly', by Georgina Hayden. I loved the title of this book; stirring slowly is just what I want to do in the kitchen, and when I reached this paragraph in the introduction......

"The current trend for healthy eating is great, and I'm sure it has made many of us more aware of what we put in our bodies.
But for me any meal that is made from scratch, lovingly, is good and clean"

..I mentally jumped for joy!  Georgina divides her book into chapters such as 'A Sunny Start to The Day'; 'Bowl Food', 'Quick and Light', 'Long, Slow and Hearty'. There are lots of modern tasting recipes here, and a good mixture of very quick snacks and meals, and dishes that take longer to make. The recipes are well written, and I am convinced that Georgina has cooked every one of these recipes in her kitchen before putting them in her book. This book reeks of integrity.

For this month's challenge I made Georgina's 'Chicken soup for the Soul' This involved poaching a whole chicken with fresh herbs and aromatics, then making a broth with the strained cooking liquid, and meat shredded off the chicken carcase, then returning everything to the pan to cook through. Fresh dumplings are poached in the broth during the last five minutes of the cooking time. This recipe felt quite involved, and as the resident vegetarian I had to steel myself to shred the chicken off the hot chicken bones, but my highland resolve and a pair of disposable gloves helped. The carnivores reported that the soup was truly delicious, it had a depth of flavour that the simple 'thrown together' soups I usually make don't have (thanks guys). 
Although the recipe was simple, it did take a while to cook (I seemed to spend a lot of time hovering over the poaching chicken), but it was perfect for a Sunday morning pottering about in the kitchen, and I would definitely make it again. Next time I would poach the dumplings separately in a little of the broth, as they broke up slightly and made the broth somewhat cloudy.

My second selected dish was Wholemeal Nasi Goreng with Spinach. A simple but very full flavoured savoury rice with chilli, ginger, turmeric and various other spices, topped off with a fried egg. Georgina recommends this for breakfast, but we had it on a weeknight teatime. I did make a slight adaptation; Jacob was so aghast at the thought of a vegetarian dinner that I relented and stirred some prawns in to the rice. A very quick, easy, spicy, nicey weeknight dinner.

Overall, I loved this book, and Georgina's writing is very sincere;  she has a light touch with prose, but you feel that her life is rooted in family and food, which for me is perfect. In a world of glossy celebrity volumes with as much soul as a white sliced supermarket loaf, it is reassuring to find a book full of good, tasty, cookable, but exciting food. I am so glad I found this book.

My book choice for October is 'Simple' by Diana Henry.

 I have never owned a Diana Henry recipe book before, and know very little about her. I had pre-ordered this book and then forgotten all about it, so it was a delightful surprise when it dropped through the letterbox a couple of weeks ago.

If you joined me last month, thank you. If you would like to join the challenge this month, this is what to do:

The challenge is simple: the first week of every month, select a cookery book from your shelf, and cook two new recipes from it. The recipes can be for any meal. Cakes and bakes are excluded, but puddings are included. At the beginning of the following month, blog about the recipes you have used, and announce your chosen cookery book for the month ahead. This is an ongoing project, it's never too late to get involved, and everyone is very welcome. Don't worry about photographs; if you haven't taken a photograph of the dish, post a photograph of the recipe book you used. Similarly, you are welcome to share a recipe if you wish, but there is no pressure to do so. This project is more about the process of reconnecting with your cookery book collection, than about recipe sharing or food photography.

I would appreciate a link back to this Cookery Calendar Challenge post in your post. Grab the Cookery Calendar Challenge badge to display on your blog too, if you like (just copy and paste the code on to your dashboard to display). You can also join via Instagram using hashtag #cookerycalendarchallenge (you will find me on Instagram @penny.homemadeheart ).

An InLinkz Link-up

 

a pile of new books: 2

There are few things in this world that make me happier than a pile of new books.   

I like to own books, rather than borrow them from the library. A borrowed book never has the same feel as an owned book. I worry about library books being somehow damaged, or having tea spilled on them, or simply disappearing under a pile of laundry in our (often untidy) house. I keep the library books in a quarantine, in a neat pile on the sideboard;  they can never go on to the bookcase in case they disappear for ever. Even when the boys were young, and I felt a parental obligation to initiate them into the mysteries of library membership, I never enjoyed reading them library books as much as I enjoyed reading them books that we owned. An owned book has the potential to become part of the fabric of home; a library book is only ever passing through.

One thing I do rather like though, is buying second hand library books, either from the library, when they have an occasional sale of withdrawn books, or from Amazon Marketplace. The slightly sticky, translucent, plastic covers, mildly unpleasant to the touch when reading borrowed books, once removed by the new owner, reveal an almost perfect book cover, something of a bonus in a second hand book. I also rather like the thought of the book finally having a permanent home, and becoming part of the general ebb and flow of family life.

The physical presence of books comforts me. I re-read favourite books many times, and get to know specific editions so well that I can picture in my mind's eye exactly where favourite phrases fall on the page. I can't imagine a life, or a home, without books.

The pile of books pictured is a mixture of second-hand, and new.
New is Emma Bridgewater's latest book, 'Pattern' a hop, skip and jump through some of the patterns she and her husband, Mathew Rice, have designed for their pottery business over the last thirty years . I read 'Toast and Marmalade' last year, also by Emma Bridgewater, which was a fully developed autobiography. This latest book also has a lot of autobiographical detail in it, relating to how various patterns were developed, and has a back catalogue of many of the patterns, which makes for interesting reading.

Second-hand is 'Childhood Treasures by Caroline Zoob'. An ex-library book (now denuded if its plastic cover), with lots of beautiful, inspirational photographs and clear instructions for how to recreate the embroidered, painted and patchworked treasures within. Caroline champions the idea that children should be given beautiful, tactile objects to own and play with, proposing that by being trusted with beautiful things, they will learn to love and respect them. A high risk strategy in reality, but a nice idea in print, and I (broadly) applaud the sentiment, with a few caveats. 
Another Caroline Zoob book, 'Hand Stitched Home'', new this time, full of her trademark delicate but simple stitching ideas for the home.  A book to sigh over.

A recent purchase, 'Hexa Go-Go'. The title makes me wince a little, but I was looking for some inspiration for hand quilting, and this book has some really appealing ideas, one of which I am using currently in slightly adapted form, for a very slow-growing hand stitched quilt which I started just after Christmas, when my fingers were almost physically itching to start some English Paper Piecing.

'About A Village'. This is a curious book, and one that appeals to me very much. It is a photographic essay of a village in England, called Firle. I bought it for photographic inspiration, I like the photographer's style.

My pile of new books for spring time.

 

the Famous Five

Enid Blyton books will always hold a place in my heart. As I child I loved her nature stories, mysteries and adventures, but even as a very young child I also noticed her distinctive signature, which I thought, then, as now, beautiful, with its boldly inked, evenly spaced letters, lovely rounded 'E', and most enchanting of all, the short, double line under the 'd' of Enid. 
The first Enid Blyton book I clearly remember reading myself, was 'The Adventures of Pip', a series of short stories about a mischevious elf interacting with the natural world. I read and re-read my copy,  the cover of which showed Pip dressed in a red tunic. (The first edition, from 1948, is even more charming, showing Pip airborne on a swallow's back.) Looking now at the list of contents, some 45- plus years later,  I can still clearly remember what some of the stories were about; quite a testament to Enid Blyton's story telling powers.
I remember making a concious decision to move on to her more 'grown up' stories when I was about eight, when started the enduring love affair with the Famous Five series in particular, which I read over and over. I adored them; the exciting plots, the freedom the characters enjoyed, and the presence of Timmy, the dog, who was as big a character as Julien, Dick, George and Anne, hence 'the Five' (four humans, one dog).
I was not alone in greedily reading Enid Blyton's books. Many have never been out of print, and as recently as 2012, Enid was the second most popular 'classic' childrens' author to be borrowed from libraries (second only to Roald Dahl).

Enid Blyton's books have, however, been criticised almost since she started writing; as early as the 1930's her books were considered 'bland'. In  later years, they were heavily criticised as being racist, sexist and xenophobic, and were extensively edited in the '80's and '90's by Chorion, the publishers, to reflect current mores and attitudes. Few would disagree with the removal of 'gollies', and similar characters which now jar uncomfortably. However the fact remains that children love them, albeit modern editions have some characters  removed or altered, and certain wince-making phrases re-written to make them acceptable in today's society (some think with perhaps an over zealous red pen, see here for comment) .

I had no hesitation in reading Isaac all twenty one Famous Five books a few years back. We read the series in order, and in its entirety (a luxury not available to me as a child). We both thoroughly enjoyed the plots, the characters, and the straightforward assurance that good would win out over bad, and of course the many mentions of food, which Enid Blyton describes with regularity, and enthusiasm, never allowing her characters to feel hungry in pursuit of adventure. 
When not tracking down dangerous criminals; escaping from underground caves, or seeking solutions to mysterious happenings, the Five enjoy many mouth watering meals, and in every Famous Five book there are appetising descriptions of farmhouse tables groaning with crusty bread straight from the oven, gleaming pink joints of ham, freshly made sticky buns, home made cakes, and delicious puddings with plenty of custard. Picnics also feature frequently, with an abundance of tasty sandwiches, tomatoes eaten in the hand, and hard boiled eggs, with a twist of salt in a little paper alongside, and of course, bars of chocolate to finish off the feast.

It is unlikely that many current authors would write a character like Anne, the gentle youngest sister, who delights in home making, and spreads cheer and comfort through her kindly domesticity whenever 'the Five' go camping, or  caravanning, or find themselves setting up home on an abandoned island, or in a cave. I stoutly applaud Anne's right to play to her strengths as a domestic goddess in the making. She is also clever, often working out clues first, and bravely faces her fears many times throughout the series.

Enid Blyton's writing is in and of her era, and could not be otherwise, but there is such affection for her creations that she is likely to be read for many generations to come. Isaac's 'Famous Five' books are still on his bedroom shelf, I am sure in the next big 'room tidy' they will be relegated to the loft. I do hope though, that if a time comes when he is looking for an exciting story to read to children in his care, he will remember about his old books, dust them off  and enjoy reading them aloud, perhaps also remembering when a loving mother read them to him.                                                                

Mum, listen to this

We are a music loving family. Derek and I both love music (our tastes differ in this, as in so many things, but it never seems to matter) and so do the boys. When they were babies, and toddlers, I had no idea of the particular joy I would experience when their adult personalities and tastes started to develop, and they would share their musical discoveries with me. Neither did I anticipate that peculiar sensation of nostalgia ( combined with a wry inward smile) when they 'discover' a song that instantly transports me back to my own youth.  One of my favourite phrases is 'Mum, listen to this'. So many of my own musical memories are now overlaid with the happiness of seeing my boys enjoy the same music.

Jacob's tastes range from Frank Sinatra, to Pink Floyd and Bruce Springsteen. One of his highlights of last year was seeing The Who live.  He even manages to study with earphones in, absorbing music along with his revision notes. One of his favourite bands is Walk Off The Earth. Significant for him as they were the first (and thus far the only) band he has seen with a friend, rather than a parent, when they played recently in Glasgow. (That was a long evening, even though we drove them there, and home). I have to agree with Jacob though, they are an amazing band; inventive, theatrical, musical.

Here they are singing their mesmerising version of Adele's 'Hello' (I always prefer Adele's songs performed by other people).

Isaac, who's guitar lesson a Saturday morning is the highlight of his week, sucks music up like a dry sponge, constantly finding new artists that he loves, and learning how to play their songs on the guitar. He favours singer songwriters; idolises Passenger (he looks daily for UK tour tickets), and loves Imagine Dragons, who he saw live last year in Newcastle. He's also partial to an '80's power ballad when the mood takes him. 

One of his recent discoveries is Jesse Daniel Smith Here is Jesse singing one of his own songs 'Simple Friday Night' It's beautiful.

The August Break '15: Reading

Continuing with the August Break, posting a photograph every day in August, helped along by a list of prompts from Susannah Conway, who is hosting the project.

The prompt for day seventeen is 'reading'

Reading? Yes, always, though this summer I have been absorbed in other activities and my reading habit has slipped. I am not worried, I have a life long love of books;  the occasional surface ripple does not disturb the deep waters below. I will return to reading again when summer slows into  autumn, and the longer nights return.

 

as regular readers will know.....

As regular readers will know (and if you are one, thank you!) I am more than a little in love with James Taylor. I have listened to and loved his music since my early teens; there will always will be a tiny garden in my heart that blossoms for him.

 (image from here)

I hold him in high regard, because apart from making (soulful, melodic, sometimes haunting, sometimes powerful) music, he is open, honest and humble about his struggles with depression, alcoholism, heroin addiction, and his ongoing recovery.I am also grateful to him, for making music that has sustained me through times of change and challenge. 

(image from here)

I have mentioned before that I listened to his music when I was at boarding school, on the beautiful but remote island of Lewis. I was doubly removed from my previous life; our family had moved from mainland UK to the Western Isles, and I then had to move again to Lewis to attend senior secondary school, staying in a fairly inhospitable school hostel, sharing a small room with two other girls.I had a different accent, different clothes, a different attitude to the girls who had been brought up on the islands; these differences made me something of a curiosity. I was both lonely and conspicuous, a very uncomfortable combination. James Taylor's music, which I played in the evenings, and on weekends, really kept me grounded in this unfamiliar world, and helped me hold on to my sense of self (incidentally so did listening to Dr Hook, I really am a hippie at heart).

(image from here)

A few years later, I was in my early 20's, living and working in Edinburgh. I was happy, busy and sociable. However, as with many people in similar situations, I often suspected that everyone else was having a much better, more successful life than I. James Taylor's music was again my solace; every night I played his 'Greatest Hits' album before I went to bed. I drifted off to sleep with James' soothing voice in my ears.

 

(image from here)

When, around the same time, I spent six months travelling in Australia, I took my precious Greatest Hits cassette tape with me, playing it whenever I could borrow a cassette player. It was a talisman for stability; I loved my time in Australia, but was often homesick.Once more, James Taylor's music provided a small but vital anchor. Listening to his voice, pondering his lyrics, I would feel my heartbeat slow down, and take some time out to just dream and reflect.

(image from here)

James Taylor's music is also associated with many happy times too. Not long after I met Derek, I saw James Taylor live for the first time, from way up in the Gods at the Edinburgh Playhouse. I also treasure a memory from August 1999, when he  played a small outdoor gig at Lennoxlove House, near Edinburgh. Derek and I went along, and took a picnic. I was heavily pregnant with Jacob. When James sang 'You've Got A Friend', I sang along, wanting this baby to hear, to know that all he ever had to do was 'call out my name, and you know wherever I am, I'll come running.....'

(image from here)

I have been reflecting recently on James Taylor's music more than usual, partly due to seeing him recently in Florence, and partly because he has just released a new album 'B4 This World', his first album of new songs since 2002.  This has meant some media coverage, and lots of interviews etc, which has been a great pleasure for me. Here is a video interview; here is an interview from a weekend newspaper magazine and, if your appetite is really whetted, here is an uncut interview from a recent Howard Stern show. 

Having shared my love of James Taylor's music, I would love to know,are there any musicians whose music you have loved over many years, whose music has comforted and sustained you through good times and bad?

a pile of new books:1

There are few things in this world that make me happier than a pile of new books.

In the spirit of new year's resolutions in January, I committed to not buying any new books until my 'to read' shelf had been thoroughly explored, and I have stuck to it pretty well. I have resisted the lure of Amazon's 'Recommended for You' page, and bought books only from charity shops or borrowed them from the library, with the exception of books for my book group, though I very conscientiously selected a book from my 'to read' shelf when it was my turn to choose.

However, I did have a 'get out of jail card' in my possession, in the form of a book token, which I had been hoarding  for some months. Derek had very kindly gifted me a quilting course for my birthday earlier this month, to start in August, and this presented the perfect excuse for a trip to Waterstones to look for a quilting book. Derek had already given me 'Homemade and Happy' by Tone Finnanger, (he really is an excellent gift-chooser!) so after a delightfully lengthy browse I chose 'Quilt Me' by Jane Brocket; full of inspirational ideas for quilt making, and fearless in the choice of fabrics used. I thought this would be a very helpful counterpoint to the rigid 'rules' of quilting I will be exposed to during my course!

I have recently become fascinated by the Bloomsbury Group, and when I saw  'The Bloomsbury Cookbook' by Jans Ondantje Rolls I swooped on it like a merlin; I love a cook book that combines recipes with background information, and this book is a rich resource. It has hundreds of recipes, some sourced directly from members of the Bloomsbury Group (or more accurately from their cooks), some from 'Good Things In England' by Florence White, some from the author. It also contains drawings and paintings by the Bloomsbury Group; excerpts from their letters and diaries and lots of other biographical information. I find 'straight' biographies deadly to read; making food and recipes the focal point appeals much more.

 

I have since sourced 'Charleston' and 'Bloomsbury at Home' from Amazon marketplace for the purposes of cross-reference, which purchases I thought acceptable within the 'no new books' rule as they were second hand. In that peculiar way that sometimes happens, when your interest is piqued, you see references to the subject everywhere. In the back of a weekend magazine supplement, I found an article about Vanessa Nicolson, granddaughter of Vita Sackville-West , member of the Bloomsbury Group, now cut out and tucked away for future reference. Mary Addison also mentioned the Bloomsbury Group recently on her excellent blog, which appears prima facie to be about embroidery; but is also about botany, baking, religious festivals, books, fashion, paintings, history and so much more. Finally, reading recently about Caroline Zoob's embroidery, I learned that she lived in Monks House, Virginia Woolf's Sussex home, and in that delightfully cyclical manner that the universe loves to provide, has written a book about it.

 

Year in books- May

Thanks as always to Laura at Circle of Pine Trees for hosting the Year in Books project, where bloggers post their book of the month.

Last month, I read Anne Tyler's latest book 'A Spool of Blue Thread', which I was also reading for my non-virtual book group.

In this novel, we are introduced to the Whitshank family, at the point where ageing parents Abby and Red are starting to cause their children some concern. Abby is becoming slightly disorientated, and Red is very deaf, and can no longer maintain their home as he once used to.

Adult son Stem and family move in with Abby and Red, at the same time as prodigal son Denny makes one of his sporadic reappearances. This causes conflict, and the first half of the book reveals decisions made in their childhood, by Abby, which have ultimately led to their simmering sibling rivalry.

The second half of the book explores the family history of their immediate antecedents, and tells the story of how Abby and Red met, which is slightly different to Abby's telling of the story over the years.

The telling, re-telling, and interpretation of family stories is one of the main themes of the novel; how family history morphs into family folk lore and becomes altered and romanticised over generations.

How families are viewed from within, and from without, is another theme. Family celebrations, events, or holidays that may be judged by the outside world as being happy and  harmonious, may feel very different when viewed from within.

I have read many of Anne Tyler's book over the years, and always enjoy her clear-eyed depictions of people struggling with the enormity, or the minutiae, of life. Her characters are always drawn with a tender regard for human frailty. 'A Spool of Blue Thread', however, was not my favourite novel of hers. Although some passages were an absolute joy to read, and Abby's character, in particular, was warm and eccentric, some sections did not hold my interest as much. Perhaps my expectations were unfairly high, as I usually love her work so much. Having said that, I would still recommend this book to others, and it will be staying on my bookshelf.

 

My book choice this month is 'The Aftermath' by Rhidian Brook.

This is also my book choice for my non-virtual book group. As I have explained before, I am fortunate to be a member of a very committed, long running book group, and this month it is my turn to choose our book.

When selecting a book for the book group, I try to choose one that looks well written; seems to have an interesting story, and has broad moral, social or ethical themes that will encourage wide ranging discussion. Additionally, it should be one that is new to all readers, including me.

'The Aftermath', described as 'Profoundly moving, beautifully written' ('Independent'), tells the story of Rachael Morgan, who is reunited with her British husband in the ruins of post war Hamburg, in 1946. He has been charged with overseeing the rebuilding of the city, and Rachael is stunned to discover that they will be sharing their new home with the previous German owners, a German widower, and his troubled daughter.

Issues of grief, forgiveness, guilt and love are explored, so I am hoping that this will be not only an excellent read, but will also provide good fodder for discussion.

Whilst looking for potential questions for the forthcoming discussion of 'The Aftermath', I found this page, on the Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group site, which gives excellent suggestions for book group questions; tips on meetings, and suggestions of how to start a book group, for anyone who is thinking of setting up a group but is not quite sure how to take the plunge.

James and the Uffizi

Leaving the house at 5.30am last Monday, I was..

....excited (three days in Florence, two dear friends, tickets for a James Taylor concert.)

...a bit anxious (would everyone really be ok without me?)

...tired (I had spent the preceding days cooking, cleaning, ironing, organising, writing lists..)

...in a quiet state of disbelief that the trip was happening at all.

However, after all the dreaming, wishing, hoping and planning, here I was, leaving the boys still in bed, Derek waving me off sleepily at the door. I took a taxi through quiet, early morning streets to the ceaseless activity of the airport, and I was on my way.

Florence may have grey rainy days, and sleety days, and cold, miserable days, but not so the April days we spent there. The sky was azure; the river Arno flowing voluptuously through the city, lazily reflecting the light back onto the facades of riverside buildings, like a beautiful woman kissing her hand to innumerable, smitten admirers.

It was beautifully warm, and being able to wear just a linen dress and sandals, after a long Scottish winter of woollies and wellies, was bliss.

The centre of Florence is small, and easy to navigate. Every corner you turn there are beautiful things to see; buildings, churches, flowers, fountains, statues.

 
 
 

On Tuesday we visited the Uffizi Gallery in the morning, offset by a little retail therapy afterwards, a lingering lunch outdoors, followed by James Taylor concert in the evening. There are not many days so perfect in a lifetime.

The Uffizi Gallery was a revelation. I could have spent days there, impressing the paintings, colours, light and beauty on my inner eye, to be recalled at will. I have never studied art, and know nothing about the technical aspects, but to stand in front of paintings that I had seen in books and prints, and see the brush strokes, realise the vividness of the colours, the tender sweep of an eyelash, the detail of a foot, or a lock of hair, the light and shadow in the fold of a gown, was so absorbing, so rewarding, my soul soared.

 

Of course, we weren't the only people enjoying the Uffizi that morning, and a little patience was required to see some of the more famous works on display.

In the evening, James Taylor. This was hugely exciting for me, particularly as we realised when we arrived that the theatre was small, and that our seats were in row B. I do love James Taylor, and have seen him many times, but Florence was absolutely fantastic. James was as gracious and gentle as ever, the music was outstanding. Here he is singing 'You've Got  Friend' at the end, and yes, I was standing right in front of the stage (you might as well know the truth about me now, so you can decide if you want to abandon this blog for ever).

The next day was time to come home; sad to say goodbye to Florence, and to my friends; but so immensely happy to have been there. I have dreamed about being in Florence every night since my return, I hope the dreams are prophetic. The highlights? James and the Uffizi.

Year in books: April

Once again joining Laura and her  Year In Books link up, which has introduced me to lots of excellent book recommendations, and lots of excellent bloggers who love to read. I strongly recommend you make yourself a nice cup of tea and go for a browse if you haven't visited before.

Last month I read 'Bellman and Black' by Diane Setterfield.

A young boy, William Bellman, throws a stone which kills a rook, almost by accident. His life ever after is monitored and (possibly) influenced by the clever, pitiless spirit of this ancient breed of bird.

The book is really a psychological study of William, whom we follow from childhood to death. He is an intelligent, highly motivated man, though a melancholy streak runs through him. After tragedy strikes his family, he turns the energy of grief into a business venture by building and running a huge department store, devoted to the accoutrements of mourning. Everything from full mourning garb to black edged correspondence cards is stocked, and he runs the business with an almost feverish energy.

He seems to have a business partner, the mysterious Mr Black, who exerts a significant and unnatural influence on William, though nobody else ever as much as catches a glimpse of him. William's life follows the same trajectory as the stone he aimed at the rook on that fateful day in his childhood, a steady rise, followed by an equally steady decline. As readers, we don't know if this is due to the malignant influence of Mr Black, the vengeful spirit of the rooks, or simply inherent weakness in William.

I greatly enjoyed this book, it was gripping, slightly creepy, and intriguing. I have already recommended it to several friends, and will be finding a place for it on my bookshelf, rather than dropping it discreetly into the bag destined for the charity shop.

This month I am going to read 'A Spool of Blue Thread' by Ann Tyler.

This is the story of Red and Abby Whitshank, and their family. As the blurb explains:

'Red and Abby are getting older, and decisions must be made about how best to look after them and their beloved family home'. A lengthy review here summarises the plot and gives measured praise to Anne Tyler's writing skills.

I chose this book partly because I have read and enjoyed many of her novels in the past, and my non-virtual book group is reading this book for our next meeting in May, so it seemed a good idea to keep things simple for Spring and have the same book for both groups.

The Year in books; March

Joining Laura at Circle of Pine Trees again this month, for her ongoing Year in Books project. If you haven't had a look at the link-up yet, may I suggest a visit, you will find lots of interesting book recommendations from other bloggers, and  lots of blogs to visit.

Last month, I read 'The Rosie Effect' by Graeme Simsion.

This is the sequel to 'The Rosie Project', and follows the further adventures of Don Tillman; scientist, cocktail maker, square peg in round hole, husband, and now, prospective father. I was a massive fan of 'The Rosie Project' and took a lot of residual goodwill into this read. 'The Rosie Effect' was loveable and charming, but perhaps not quite as razor sharp as the first book. Having said that, it was enormously enjoyable, and is a film just waiting to happen. Don Tillman is irresistible.

My book choice this month is 'Bellman and Black', by Diane Setterfield. I read her debut novel 'The Thirteenth Tale' a few years ago for my earth-bound book group, and enjoyed it. 'Bellman and Black' is described as:

'..a rags to riches tale with a spooky twist'

'..much, much more than a simple ghost story'

'..an original take on the gothic novel' 

As I get older I rather enjoy a gothic ghost story, especially in the colder months, so I will read this whilst there is still an early dusk, and I can toast my toes comfortably in front of the fire whilst reading in the evenings. 

we read the books and talk about them

My book group is 10 years old this year. I have been a member for 9 years, and have read 80+ book group books in that time.  The book group has been a constant source of pleasure for me; both for the books and authors it has introduced me to, and because of the members, most of whom have been there since the beginning. Many book groups founder before they have read a dozen books. Why has our group lasted so long?

There are a couple of reasons why our group is still going strong, apart from the minimum requirements which are of course a love of books and reading, and a free evening once a month. Firstly, the group is well organised. Secondly, and most importantly, we read the books and talk about them. I could also add that the other members are delightful women whose company, insights, opinions, and love of reading have brought great richness to my inner life.

I was terribly flattered to be asked to join at all. I worked with one of the original members, and we often talked about books and reading. When someone left the bookgroup, I was invited to take her place. I instantly accepted.

My boys were very young at the time, and the book group became a lifeline to the outside world. I rarely missed a meeting, and the feeling of freedom and relaxation during those hours talking about books sustained me through many a trying day.

Our structure is well tried and tested and it works, as the longevity of the group testifies. We meet once a month, from 8pm-10pm. Hosting the group is rotational; everyone does it about once a year. The host offers tea, coffee, soft drinks, red or white wine, and snacks. We're not talking about home made petit fours here, just a few crisps and a packet of biscuits. Shop bought is fine. The reason I mention this is that I have heard horror stories of book groups where the host provides a cooked meal for the group. Cooking dinner for friends is a lovely thing to do, but I would have no desire to combine it with a book group meeting.

The previous month's host leads the discussion, as her choice of book will have been read in the preceding weeks. This isn't as intimidating as it sounds. Often books will include guidance questions for book groups, the internet is awash with helpful questions for book groups, and anyone can say 'What did you think of the book?'

At the end of the evening, this month's host reveals her choice of book for the coming month. It should ideally be one that is new to the whole group. We read a wide range of books, almost invariably fiction, rarely biography or autobiography, and infrequently crime. There's no getting round it, choosing a book that you hope will entertain the group and be sufficiently thought provoking, is not easy, but it's all part of the fun of being a book group member. We all buy our own copies of the book for the coming month, or borrow them from the library.

The following month, the person who hosted last month's meeting, and chose the book, leads the discussion. The person hosting the evening reveals their book choice for the following month at the end of the evening, and so the cycle continues.

We have a break in July and August, and in December our meeting follows a slightly different format, where we all bring a book, and all receive a book, read those books over the Christmas period, and informally discuss them during our annual book group dinner, held in January. The host for February's meeting reveals her choice of book at the end of the meal, and off we go again.

Though the structure of the book group is quite formal, the meetings are very informal, with lots of laughs and always time for a chat before we settle down to discuss the book. However, we do discuss the book we have read for that month; we are all committed to that. Occasionally of course, someone wont have managed to finish it, but on the whole we do try our hardest. I mention this because I suspect that failing to read the books is why many book groups stop being book groups and instead become social groups. Which is also lovely, but not a book group.

I am fascinated by book groups in general, how they work, what books are read, who chooses the books, if the chosen books are read, if the members get on well. I know of at least one book group which fell apart because some members were so adversarial that harmonious discussion was not possible. We are fortunate in our group, not because we all agree, but because we can disagree courteously. 

I hope our book group keeps going for another 10 years, and then 10 more. Why stop, unless our love of reading diminishes, and I sincerely hope that never happens.

(For sheer style and longevity, you may like to read about the ladies in  this book group.)

Year in books: February

Joining the Year in Books link up over at Circle of Pine Trees hosted by Laura. If you haven't yet visited or joined the Year in Books it is well worth a visit. Many good books, lovely blogs to find, and Laura welcomes everyone and anyone who wants to join.

For my January read I chose 'The Miniaturist' by Jessie Burton. Set in 17c Amsterdam, it concerns 18 year old Nella Oortman, who has married an older, wealthy, merchant Johannes Brandt. She doesn't know him well; but though nervous, she is committed to the idea of married life. The Brandt household is grand, imposing, but suffocating with secrets. It soon becomes clear that Nella has been selected for her youth and supposed malleability, rather than for any notion of love. The servants seem insolent, with more power than Nella is used to. Her husband's domineering sister, Marin, controls the household, and makes Nella's life difficult. The Miniaturist of the title is a will-o'-the-wisp, a woman who lives nearby and predicts Nella's future via miniature dolls and household objects delivered to the house in mysterious circumstances.  

On the whole this book was a disappointment. The opening chapters were intriguing, if slightly confusing in places, but after the 'big reveal'  the story lost some momentum.  Nella came over as a girl of very modern sensibilities; she didn't have the 'feel' of a period character. The Miniaturist of the title is not, in the end, a catalyst, merely a commentator, albeit with a magical or supernatural bent. Lots of descriptions of food, feasting and cooking, which I enjoyed. I would have liked to find out how the characters coped with their changed circumstances by the end of the book, but the ending was abrupt, leaving many questions unanswered. Not my particular cup of tea, but it was a huge best seller last year, so perhaps I am missing something.

My book this month is 'The Rosie Effect' by Graeme Simsion.

 It is a follow up to 'The Rosie Project', which I read last year for my terrestrial book group. The lead character, Don Tillman, is an 'innocent abroad'  who sees the world from his singular point of view; missing many of the more subtle nuances of everyday social interactions and relationships, and unwittingly causing havoc. However this is no slapstick comedy. Although there are laugh-out-loud moments on almost every page, Don Tillman is highly intelligent; kind, honest, well intentioned, and keen to find love. The way he goes about the latter provides the plot for 'The Rosie Project' . 'The Rosie Effect' is his further adventures as, now married, he navigates the tricky business of everyday life with the added complication of a wife. I am so looking forward to reading this book.

Incidentally 'The Rosie Project' is a fine example of the power of book groups to open your eyes to books you would never usually select yourself. I was well aware of 'The Rosie Project' but I wouldn't have read it, partly because of the gaudy cover, and partly because it was on every supermarket shelf. (Which I accept is literary snobbishness. Which I deplore. Officially.) However; it was selected by another book group member for discussion, so had to be read, et voila, a firm favourite and one which goes on my list of books to read when you are down/unwell/otherwise requiring a bit of comfort and good cheer.

Year in books: January.

I am delighted to report that Laura over at Circle of Pine Trees blog has decided to keep going with her Year In Books project.If you have not yet visited her blog and this particular project, I recommend a visit to pick up some great book reviews and find a diverse group of blogs to visit.

In the spirit of New Year Resolutions, I have decided not to buy any new books until my 'To Read' shelf has been thoroughly gone through and the forty two unread books on it have been tackled. There are a couple of caveats: books for my non virtual book group; books from charity shops or book stalls, and if I visit the Edinburgh Book Festival again this year, I may be wholly unable to help myself.....

On with this month's book choice:

This was published last year, and has had a mixed reception but I will read it this month and am looking forward to it. (Coincidentally, Deborah Moggach is quoted on the back cover; I am currently reading her book Tulip Fever, )

On the topic of books, here is the pile of gorgeous books that came my way over Christmas:

Thrilled with them all. Did you receive any longed for books at Christmas this year?

 

 

Year in books; November

Joining in once again with Laura, who kindly hosts the Year in Books link-up at her beautiful, inspirational blog, Circle of Pine Trees. There are lots of interesting book recommendations, and new blogs to discover, so well worth a visit if you haven't found your way there before.

I would normally recap my previous month's read here, and give a brief review, but I haven't yet finished October's book, 'Written in my Own Heart's Blood', the latest in the 'Outlander' series by Diana Gabaldon. Every work of fiction requires suspension of disbelief, and that is perhaps even more necessary for this (so far) eight book series, but take the leap and join those of us who have abandoned reality at the first page-it's fun! 'Written in my Own Heart's Blood' is a hefty 814 pages, though in fairness a light read and an addictive page turner, and every bit as bodice rippingly melodramatic as its title suggests. I am confident that I will have completed it soon, and will be looking forward to book nine...

I have selected my book for next month; 'We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves' by Karen Joy Fowler. This is also the book my non-virtual book group is reading this month, and as I still have some catching up to do I thought it would be sensible to have this as my 'Year in Books' choice too.

It has an 'inducement to read' quote by Barbara Kingsolver on the back cover. I am sensitive to cover quotes and can be put off a book if the quote is by an author I dislike, however Barbara Kindsolver is a brilliant and clever author. I have read and enjoyed several of her books, particularly the one pictured above, 'Animal, Vegetable, Miracle', which is a fascinating account of her family's year of eating only food grown or raised in their neighbourhood, or grown by themselves. If a foodstuff didn't meet these criteria, they didn't eat it. It is a thought provoking read, and in our current food culture of 'everything available everywhere all the time' it is encouraging to read about a family who put principles well beyond convenience, and learned to love it.

There is a tenuous link betwee the three books, then, which I include here for fun. Karen Joy Fowler's book has a quote by Barbara Kingsolver on the cover, Barbara Kingslover has a degree in Biology from the University of Arizona, Diana Gabaldon lives in Arizona. It's the little things....

 

Year in books; October

Joining Laura again at her beautiful blog Circle of Pine Trees, and her Year In Books project. If you haven't yet looked at the book recommendations, and the many lovely blogs involved, I recommend you do.

My book choice last month was Sarah Waters' 'Paying Guests'.

 

Set in the 1920's, it concerns a genteel but impoverished mother and daughter. They live in a large suburban house, in a respectable suburb of London.

The mother is worn down and emotionally vulnerable, having been left badly provided for by her husband, and having lost two sons in the Great War. Frances, the daughter, is frustrated and deeply unhappy with her lot, but is committed to caring for her mother, and their large, ill-maintained house. The house itself is almost like another character, it is so vividly described, and its maintenance such a burden to Frances, who spends her days scrubbing floors, emptying pails and laying fires, as they can no longer afford any domestic help. Becoming desperate for money, they reluctantly decide to take in lodgers, the 'paying guests' of the title.

Len and Lil Barber are brash, noisy and slack. Len is overly familiar, Lil has garish taste and slatternly habits, yet they seem to enjoy life, and are sociable and friendly. However Frances and her mother find it a physical and psychological strain having the Barbers share their home.

As the weeks go by, however, Frances becomes intrigued as to the nature of Len and Lils' marriage, and is slowly drawn in to a friendship with Lil. From that point in the story, events begin to gather momentum and the tension mounts. Relationships are forged, a murder is committed, and the plot gathers pace towards a murder trial at the Old Bailey.

The book is dark, and in places very explicit, so if you are put off by that, this is not the book for you. However, it is hugely atmospheric, very pacey and a page turner. A very good autumn read.

My book choice for October is 'Written in My Own Heart's Blood' by Diana Gabaldon.

This is the eighth book in the 'Outlander' series by Diana Gabaldon. I really shouldn't like these books; I usually loathe historical bodice rippers, but here I must come clean and admit without shame that I have read and loved every single one in the series, and have been eagerly awaiting the release of this latest installment.

I was loaned the first five books when Isaac was a baby, and used to read them during his feeds. I devoured them in record time; the heady mixture of love, time travel, inexplicable phenomena, physical hardship and uncomfortable domestic arrangements made perfect sense to me as the sleep deprived, slightly crazed mother of two tiny children. By the time I'd finished the books, Isaac was weaned and I was a committed 'Outlander' fan.

Diana Gabaldon's website explains the books, and her writing methods, and the whole juggernaut that is the Outlander phenomenon, and is worth a look if you are curious. I am really looking forward to diving back in to the story, especially as each book in the series starts, satisfyingly, almost at the exact point the previous one left off, with no frustrating gaps or mysterious literary devices. They are just rollickingly good stories, perfect for chilly autumn evenings by the fire.

 

 

 

Related articles

 

 

 

 

My heart beat just a little faster.

Last night I saw James Taylor at the Hydro in Glasgow.

Though this morning I couldn't quite believe this had happened, I actually had a brief conversation with him at the interval, when, instead of going off, he sat on the edge of the stage, long legs dangling, and patiently signed tickets, and posed for hundreds of selfies.

I had nothing for him to sign, having left my ticket in my purse in my haste to reach the front of the stage, and in truth I didn't want an autograph, or a selfie. I just wanted to say hi. The crush was phenomenal, but I held my nerve, and eventually reached James. Our conversation went something like this;

Me: (touching his arm) Hi James. Just wanted to thank you for singing 'Millworker'. It's one of my favourites.

James:(signing tickets, looks up, smiles) Glad you enjoyed it.

That was enough for me, I was happy, and turned to start squeezing my way out through the crowd, but then another smile from James, and 

James: How's the sound out there? We were kind of worried about this venue.

Me: (palpitating) Oh? No, it's wonderful, everyone is loving it. Thanks again so much.

James: (smile) Thanks.

As conversations go, it wasn't scintillating; I have probably been more scintillating to the milkman, but when I did return to my seat, and my two bemused friends, my heart beat just a little faster. I know nobody swoons these days (shame) but if they still did, I would have; Sal Volatile would have had to be administered. 

I have been fortunate enough to see James live about eight times.  The first song I ever heard him sing was 'Handyman' (1977), and it was love at first listen. Since then, his music has been with me at every stage of my life.

                  

When I was at boarding school in Stornoway, I listened endlessly to his music in the evenings, his achingly lovely voice transporting my mind to places other than the cramped room I shared with two other girls.

When I lived alone (and sometimes lonely) in Edinburgh, I would play his music every night as I fell asleep, his voice mingled with my dreams.

When I was in Australia, and everything I carried had to earn its place in my rucksack, I took a casette (remember those?) of his music with me, and played it whenever I could.

                                     

When I was (very) pregnant with Jacob, Derek and I saw him at Lennoxlove House in the summer of 1999, and I sang 'You've Got A Friend' to Jacob as James sang it on stage.

It's not as the long haired, dark eyed, young performer that I know James, but as a mature man, supremely comfortable on stage, his mellow voice and characteristic guitar playing filling the hearts and souls of the listeners with joy. 

Last night's show was wonderful, with James' voice and relaxed, intellegent presence filling the venue, many familiar songs, and some new.

Many of the songs are already known by heart,and loved by the audience, but nothing can compare with hearing them played live; each acquiring a new polish and freshness in the performing, like an old treasure taken from a box or pocket and rinsed in clear, sparkling water.

At the end,  he must have felt the love; he returned  for  three encores. Three. The last of which was his version of 'Wild Mountain Thyme', a traditional scottish song, taken to America, I imagine, by emigrating Scots, many of whom would never see Scotland again. James brought it home last night. I was not the only person in tears as the crowd softly sang along to the familiar words, 'Will ye go, lassie, go?/ An' we'll all go together/to pull wild mountain thyme/all around the bloomin' heather/ will ye go, lassie, go?'

 

 

 

Related articles

 

 

 

 

The Year in books; September

Joining in Laura's wonderful The Year In Books project, which she kindly hosts. A wealth of book reviews and reccomendations there every month, and some lovely blogs to visit too. 

Last month's book choice was 'The Bachelor' by Stella Gibbons.

'The Bachelor' was written some years after the better known 'Cold Comfort Farm', and was praised by critics for its portrayal of domestic life during World War Two. It was probably this aspect of the book that I enjoyed best; the contemporary detail is is fascinating, and Stella Gibbon's sharp, though not unkind, characterisation of the personalities thrown together by the circumstance of war is highly entertaining.

The clunky characterisation of the young, Eastern European refugee, Varthouhi sits less easily on a 21st Century reader's sensibilities, but it is of its time, and is a kindly, if now outmoded depiction. 

This month my book choice is 'The paying Guests' by Sarah Waters. 

I have previously read 'Fingersmith', 'The Night Watch' and 'The Little Stranger by the same author. I have always found her books saturated with atmosphere, with plots so finely crafted you can't see the stitches, and with intriguing, flawed, weathered characters who are so convincing it feels as though you are reading a true story.

Her books seem to suit the longer evenings and the chill, somehow  I cannot imagine reading any of them on a warm summer's day. I am looking forward to settling down with this book as the autumn weather arrives.

Related articles

 

 

 

The August Break: Soft

The penultimate photo prompt from The August Break project is 'soft'.

There are lots of soft things in our house; feather duvets, fluffy towels, squishy sofas, cuddly cushions, comfy chairs, and soft toys that are still very loved despite the boys' advancing ages. (For the best soft toy story ever, can I recommend 'Dogger' by Shirley Hughes. We almost knew it by heart when the boys were small). 

However, the biggest, daftest, most loveable, affectionate and softest thing in our house has to be our yellow labrador, Meg.

 

Related articles

 

 

 

The August Break: Nature

The finishing line is in sight now with The August Break photography challenge. Today's prompt is 'nature'

When I was at primary school, there was usually a Nature Table at the back of the classroom, where seasonal finds and treasures were displayed. Acorns, old birds' nests, autumn leaves, conkers, jam jars of spring flowers, all were carefully arranged, with cardboard signs in wobbly handwriting identifying each item. 

Too old now for Nature Tables, I find my daily walks with Meg, our yellow labrador, helps me take note of the changing colours, smells, plants, foliage, birds and animals as the seasons progress. For seasonal reading about the natural world, viewed through the domestic prism, I can strongly recommend 'The Magic Apple Tree' by Susan Hill. If you can find a few minutes to sit down with a cup of tea, and read the relevent section at the beginning of each season, you will feel connected to nature and the seasons through her beautiful writing. It is worth putting a reminder in your diary, truly. Whilst we are on the topic of Susan Hill, can I also recommend another of her books  'Through The Garden Gate' where she talks evocatively about seasonal gardening.

On to today's photograph, taken a couple of days ago whilst out with Meg. Much of the summer foliage is dying back, the seed heads are blowing now in cooler winds, the brambles are ripening, Autumn is on its way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Related articles

 

 

The August Break: Memory

The next prompt from Susannah Conway for the August Break project is 'memory'.

I took this photograph of Allan Ramsay's fine statue, and the Castle, when I attended the Edinburgh Book Festival in Charlotte Square in Edinburgh.

The annual Book Festival is delightful; small, intimate and manageable, a self contained Festival within the enormous event that is the annual Edinburgh Festival and Fringe.

I had a ticket for a reading and book signing by the very talented and, as it turns out, funny and likable Nina Stibbe, who wrote 'Love, Nina'; letters written to her sister circa 1982 when she worked as a Nanny*.

I also worked as a Nanny in the early 1980's, so her book brought back lots of good memories. My memory must have failed me recently though, because I had forgotten how utterley beautiful Edinburgh can be, very early on a cool Sunday morning at the end of August.

*She also read exerpts from her new book, 'Man at the Helm', which were so funny I laughed my mascara off.

The August Break: Bookshelf

Continuing to work my way through the one-photo-per-day August Break challenge set by Susannah Conway. Today's prompt is 'bookshelf'.

This is my cookery book shelf. This is where I turn to for inspiration, advice and comfort. I particularly love cookery books with lengthy introductions to each recipe, written in a friendly tone, advising, but not hectoring. Some I have owned for many years, some are comparatively new, all are loved. I have no compunction about writing all over them, making notes on any changes I have made; the exact timings for my oven, or halving, doubling or in some other way altering the recipes.  

I also have an unwritten merit system for my cookery books, where, if I haven't consulted a recipe book for over a year or so, it is demoted to a distant bookshelf elsewhere in the house. If it languishes there for any length of time, it is quietly dispatched to the charity shop. 

Some cookery books are kept, however, not because they are frequently consulted, but for other reasons. Perhaps because they contain one much loved recipe,e.g. 'French Leave' , bought some years ago in Oxfam, and kept for the cauliflower soup recipe. Others are kept because they have been received as gifts, e.g. 'Home Cooking' by Rachel Allen, given to me by Jacob, with a treasured message from him written on the fly leaf. I will keep it for ever.

The Readers' Digest 'Cookery Year' is the grand old man of the collection; kept because it was given as a gift from my family when Derek and I became engaged. I still turn to it regularly for no nonsense advice and classic recipes.

One of my favourites cookery books is the Roald Dahl's Cook Book, many of the recipes have introductions and explanations by Roald, which add charm and give an insight into his life with his family.

My christmas cookery books live on the shelf all year round. Opening them 'out of season' gives a pinprick of nostalgia for christmases past, and getting them down from the shelf in November for my christmas cake, or christmas pudding recipe, is one of the most enjoyable parts of the festive season.

I still remember the pleasure of saving up for and buying Delia's  'Summer Collection' and 'Winter Collection' books when Derek and I were quite newly married, and a new recipe book was a big purchase.

I love Mary Berry too, her down to earth approach with recipes, as well as her strength of character, humour, and sense of style. I have several of her books, and they are well used.

I can't talk about my cookery book shelf without mentioning the fabulous 'Home Cook' by Alistair Hendy. Written with a quick wit and sly wink, Alistair is the man to turn to when you can't quite remember how to make recipes you feel you should know. I love this book so much I bought an extra copy incase anything happened to the first one I had.

In the same way that each of our friends brings a different joy or richness to our lives, so each of my recipe books gives me pleasure. Like friends, they too have their foibles and quirks, and they are not without their flaws, but my kitchen, and home, would be poorer without them.

What cookery books you treasure, and turn to often? 

 

The August Break: Guilty Pleasure

The August Break prompt 'Guilty Pleasure' gave me some pause for thought. After a bit of head scratching I came to the conclusion that I really don't have a guity pleasure. Sometimes I feel guilty, and it is such an unpleasant sensation that no pleasure could ever be derived from it, and those things that give me pleasure are nothing to feel guilty about. So a Venn diagram of my guilty pleasures would have virtually no overlap.

However, in the spirit of the August Break, I eventually concluded that one area of slight overlap is my baking book collection. I could probably manage with 4 or 5, but instead I have many. I find the lure of a new baking book almost irresistable, and am strongly influenced by the writing style and book design as well as the actual recipes. My baking book shelf is testament to this (fairly harmless) guilty pleasure, though in my defence, they are well used, and well loved.

Do I feel guilty when I look at this shelf?...no, but I do feel lots of pleasure.

Related articles

 

The August Break: Today Is...

Continuing with Susannah Conway's August Break project.

Commitment is an interesting concept; I have been taking part in this project now for 7 days, and though the rules (such as they are) are very loose, the driving principle is that you post a photograph every day, related to the list of prompts supplied by Susannah, who also sends a daily email expanding on the prompt, giving pointers etc. 

However, I am already missing my regular posting pattern. Cakes have been baked, books have been read, flowers have been planted, places have been visited, and doggy walks taken; I would like to be writing about these things; not that they are hugely interesting, but they are my topics and I feel comfortable with them. I have, though, committed to this project, so I am going to see it through, and hope that those kind enough to visit me here will stick with it too. 

So, onto today's prompt, which is 'today is.....'

In Susannah's accompnying email, she explained that today is the day to show an 'uncurated' moment of your life. I never have a moment that is curated (and am fascinated by the thought of those who do....) however, I couldn't bring myself to post a photo of the uncurated pile of ironing awaiting attention, or the uncurated dirty dishes piled haphazardly beside the kitchen sink. Looking round the house, I thought my bookcase represented the 'uncurated' theme quite well. I love my books so much, love reading, find it almost impossible to resist buying books, but don't have unlimited storage (does anyone?) The flip side of this is that a very stringent sorting and tidying session is regularly required. I don't really 'do' stringent (or curated) So....

'Today is.... the day I realised that the August Break Project is quite a big committment, and that I really need to tidy my bookcase'

Before I go, a book recommendation for bibliophiles; 'Howard's End Is On The Landing' by Susan Hill, which describes her year (yes a whole year) of not buying any new books, but instead re-reading those long forgotten, or never-read books from her many bookcases and bookshelves (hence the title). It is fascinating, personal and of course, as one would expect, beautifully written. And here is another really nice piece on books (and some very tidy bookshelves!)

 

The August Break: Window (and Year in Books)

Day three of the August Break , and today's prompt is 'window'

Question: Why did this window catch my eye?

Answers:

1) The quirky window within the window.

2) Contrasting vertical lines of the surround with horizontal lines of the blind.

3) Slight bow shape of the window bringing a curved edge to all those straight lines.

4) Gorgeous pale blue paint job.

 

I am bending the rules of the August Break today, as I am posting more than one photograph; the reason being it is time for The Year in Books  link up. I have found some lovely blogs through The Year in Books, as well as some excellent book recommendations. If you haven't done so already, pop over to Laura's lovely blog Circle of Pine Trees and read all about it.

My book choice this month is Stella Gibbon's The Bachelor .

I chose this book because I have read (and re-read!)  'Cold Comfort Farm'  by the same author, and never fail to be amused by the maneuvres of cool headed, shrewd heroine Flora Post, as she drags her rural, inbred cousins from the clutches of the manipulative Aunt Ada Doom, tidying up their sex education, their farm, and their marriage prospects in the process. 

'The Bachelor' was published some years later. It is set during WWII and concerns siblings Kenneth and Constance Fielding, whose quiet lives are turned upside down by the arrival of several unexpected guests.  

My book choice last month was The Great American Bus Ride by Irma Kurtz.

I read this whilst on holiday and found it utterly absorbing. It is funny; pithy, touching, realistic, and very well written. Irma Kurtz describes travelling across America on Greyhound buses, sitting beside (and sometimes trying to avoid sitting beside) her variously unwashed; verbose, friendly, silent, troubled, dull, charming, insane, extraordinary fellow passengers. It is the true account of an acutely observant middle aged woman travelling alone on Greyhound buses; and it is totally fab.

A quick note on my other July reads: 

The Days of Anna Madrigal; the last in the Tales of the City series, a quick, enjoyable, pacey read, with Armistead Maupin's trademark unabashed approach to the more intimate side of his characters' lives.

Mrs Sinclair's Suitcase ; a gentle read from Louise Walters, but don't choose this if you are looking for a suspensful plot...

Life After Life ;  by Kate Atkinson. Technically brilliant, intricate novel about Ursula, whose life ends many times throughout the novel; several times on the day she is born;  throughout her childhood and into adulthood. Each life throws a glimmering shadow into the next life, or shines a ghostly light on an episode in a previous life. I read this during a long, solitary train journey last month, and can happily report that it is absolutely brilliant; one of the best books I have read in recent years. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

Back tomorrow for Day Four of the August Break.

 

Related articles

 

 

Year in books; July

Once again, thanks to Laura at Circle of Pine Trees , for hosting the Year In Books project, and this month my choice is 'The Great American Bus Ride' by Irma Kurtz.

I read a warmly written review of this book in the Summer edition of Slightly Foxed , and was intrigued. Anyone who subscribed, as I did, to 'Cosmopolitan' magazine in the '80's will remember Irma Kurtz as the straight talking Agony Aunt from that most illuminating publication. In this book, first published in 1993, Irma takes a journey across America by Greyhound bus, ostensibly to investigate her American roots, and, 'taking only the barest necessities for travel, entered the vast network of America's bus routes and a seething, fleeting world of brief encounters and changing landscapes' . I am very much looking forward to reading this book.

A word about last month's book, 'The Secret Life of Bees' by Sue Monk Kidd.

This book was a wonderful read! It is narrated by  sassy 14 year old Lily,who is badly treated by her embittered father, and runs away from home after local racial violence affects Rosaleen, the black woman who is the only person in her life who is kind to her. Their journey together to escape persecution, and to try in their bungling way to discover more about Lily's late mother is funny, moving, and unpredictable. They find sanctuary with 3 sisters who keep bees, and the book is peppered with information about bees and their behaviour, which adds an extra dimension to an already absorbing story. 

Related articles

 

 

I've been nominated......

Heartfelt thanks to Tracey at Yarn and Pencil who has very kindly nominated The Homemade Heart for the Liebster Award.

                                                            

The Liebster award is a blogger- to- blogger nomination system which promotes blogs with less than 200 followers. There is no statuette or cup to display on your mantepiece, but you do get a lovely warm glow inside from being nominated, and can add a pretty banner to your sidebar as I have done, and pepper your Liebster Award posts with Liebster Award Badges.

                                                             

A brief explanation of the Liebster Award posts:

In Part One I link back to Tracey to thank her, and then post 11 facts about myself.

Next I answer the 11 questions Tracey has asked me.

In Part Two I compose 11 questions I would like to ask other bloggers.

Then I nominate up to 11 blogs with less than 200 followers.

You can read more about the Leibster Award here and here, and this is also a neat little summary:

                                                                   

Here are my 11 random facts:

1.) When I was around 4, I planned to call any boys I might have 'Lion' and 'Tiger'. Jacob and Isaac have got off pretty lightly, considering.

2.) My husband commissioned a painting for my 50th birthday last month. It is of my childhood home and has instantly become my most treasured possession. 

3.) I taught myself to crochet last summer. I'm not very good at it.

4.) I went to 4 different Primary schools, and 3 different Secondary schools. You could say my education was a bit disjointed.

5.) I sing in a choir; we rehearse from August to November and put on a show to which long-suffering family members are invited. (It's no threat to the Military Wives.) I am a Soprano.

6.) I have a dreadful weakness for recipe books. I would have to live several lifetimes to make every recipe in every book I own, but that statistic doesn't prevent me adding to my collection...

7.) I fall asleep dreaming not of George Clooney or Colin Firth, but of powder blue Agas and Mark Wilkinson kitchens (well, okay, sometimes Colin Firth does feature a bit....)

8.) I am a big fan of Emma Bridgewater crockery, and have been collecting and using it for many years.

9.) I am absolutely hopeless with numbers; can barely copy down a phone number correctly, and have to use my fingers to add and subtract.

10.) I love Country music, but I never wear cowboy boots.....

11.) I love to read the books I enjoyed as a child, and still love them as much now as I ever did.

                                                                      

 

To be continued.........

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year in books: June

When Jacob was in Primary 5 his teacher taught the class how to identify whether they might enjoy reading a particular book by following three simple steps, namely:

1) Look at the cover: does it appeal to you, does the title look like the sort of story you would enjoy?

2)  Turn the book over and read the blurb on the back: are you interested in what it describes? Would you like to know more?

3) Open the book somewhere in the middle, read about half a page: does the style of writing appeal to you. Does it look funny/exciting/thought provoking etc. Repeat this step a couple of times. By now you will know if you would like to read this book.

I thought then and still do, that this was a wonderful way to help everyone, not just children, choose a book. 

So, joining in with Laura's The Year in Books project at Circle of Pine Trees, my book choice this month is The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. Using Mrs C's  Three Step method, I chose it because:

*The cover is a beautiful golden yellow colour, and the recommendations on the front were bearable. Sometimes I take a (possibly irrational) dislike to a book depending on what is said and by whom on the front cover. I have undoubtedly missed out on many wonderful reading opportunities over the years due to this judgemental attitude.

*I was intrigued by the first line of the blurb on the back, 'Lily has grown up believing she accidentally killed her mother when she was just four years old'.

*Glancing through before buying it seemed to have a good mix of dialogue and descriptive writing.

*It is set in the American South; I like american fiction.

*I like bees, and honey.

Last months read was The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

Not too much to say about this book; I loved the title, perhaps the book does not quite live up to it, but it was a gentle read and touching in places, a good summer or holiday read.

 

 

 

In and Out.

In...... the post this week

Two of my favourite magazines; a book I had forgotten I ordered, and my Summer issue of the perenially entertaining and beautifully written Slightly Foxed .

In....a lovely late birthday parcel from my darling brother, a beautiful soft leather purse wrapped in layers of crisp tissue.

In....my In-Box, a nomination from Tracey at Yarn and Pencil to take part in the Leibster Award; I have accepted with pleasure and shall be working on my random facts, answers to her questions, and my nominations this week.

Out...walking with Meg every day. One of the great joys of having a dog is the daily walk. I am fortunate to live in a village surrounded by easily accessible fields; a small pretty woodland, muddy paths and good splashy burns. 

Out...last night to the Glasgow's new Hydro indoor arena to see The Eagles in concert. Hard to pick a highlight from what was a fantastic evening, but I did melt into a heap of slush when Timothy B. Schmidt (who's beautiful cheeckbones are so high they cast their own shadow) sang 'Love Will Keep Us Alive'

Out...this evening to my Bookgroup meeting to discuss this book, which was my suggestion for this month's read, so my turn to lead the discussion. 

 

 

nicely chocolatey.

There are lots of chocolate cakes in the world; each with its own characteristics. This particular example is not perfect for every occasion in life; it is not hugely rich, or sophisticated, or unusual...but it is easy to make, nicely chocolatey, economical, keeps well, and is suitable as a weekday cake, or even, as Isaac proved recently, as a birthday cake. 

 

When made into cupcakes it bakes helpfully to a flat finish, making it easy to ice. It's safe to say this cake currently makes a regular appearance in our house justnow.

 

The original recipe came from the much maligned 'Celebrate' by Pippa Middleton. I have switched the margarine for butter, considerably reduced the amount of water (yes, water), increased the oven temp, and changed the method. I leave you to decide if it's still Pippa's recipe.

I also always double the quantities, so I end up with either a large double layer cake (made in 2 deep 8" tins) or several loaf-tins worth/ cupcakes and a big cake, and permutations thereof. Once fully cold, the cake/s freeze well, wrapped well, uniced, so I always like to make a big batch. Quantities given below are those that I use. Of course half them if you wish.

Ingredients

170g butter at room temp. 

570g caster sugar 

4 L. eggs 

110g cocoa powder 

340g self-raising flour

300ml cold water 

 

Method 

Preheat oven to Gas 4/180c. Grease and line 2x 20cm round cake tins.

Cream butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.

Add the eggs one by one, ensuring they are thoroughly blended.

Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa together.

Add the sifted ingredients and the water alternately until all fully incorporated, and the mixture is smooth and creamy. (If using stand mixer, take a spatula round the bottom of the bowl to ensure all is fully mixed.)

Divide the mixture between the tins and bake for 50-60 minutes, checking at 45 minutes, until nicely risen, and a cocktail stick insterted into the centre comes out clean.

Cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and allow to cool completely before covering with the icing of your choice, or dusting with a mixture of cocoa and icing  sugar. Or plain.

 

 

 

Year in books: April

Joining in Laura's 'The Year in Books' project over at 'Circle of Pine Trees', my book this month is 'The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake' by Aimee Bender.

Written in 2011, it concerns Rose Edelstein, who, on the eve of her 9th birthday,

" bites into her mother's homemade lemon-chocolate cake and discovers that she can taste her mother's emotions in the slice"

I found it whilst browsing in a local charity shop last week, and was immediately intrigued. I like books with a magical feel, and I think baking is an emotional touchstone (in some hippy-non-specific-flawed-logic way that wouldn't stand up to questioning by Jeremy Paxman). The idea of bringing these together in one slim volume had me heading to the cashpoint (and passing, with a sigh of regret, a 'Midwinter' dinner service in blue and aqua). 

This is my first month joining in with Laura's book project. It is easy to join, and I have already visited some of the other participating blogs, so it is well worth a visit of you have never looked. Some great book recommendations too, which I will be following up.

 

 

 

purple prose (I do hope not!)

I have been feeling strongly drawn towards the colour purple since coming home.

On my first outing since leaving hospital I bought pansies.

Mentioned in this charming book (and here) as being 'for thought', or meaning 'loving thoughts', and with Shakespeare's dramatic intentions via Ophelia's impassioned floral outpourings jauntily described here, there are indications that the pansy has long been associated with thoughtfullness.

A quick internet search on some appealingly eccentric sites (like this one) also suggest that the colour purple is associated with healing; sleep, and soothing of mental and emotional distress.

All very appropriate for the convalescing patient.

Incidentally, the very beautiful books in the above photograph, from the bottom up, are as follows:

Sue Lawrence's 'Scots Cooking' , a wonderful collection of traditional Scottish recipes, in Sue's bright and informative prose.

'A Cake Lover's Recipe Notebook' by the inimitable Jane Brocket, which is extremely pretty, inside and out, and genuinely user-friendly.

My 2014 Leuchtturm1917 diary. I am ridiculously picky about my annual diary, this format is perfect.