Long Island by Colm Tóibín
Twenty years on from ‘Brooklyn’ and we find Eilis Lacey in Long Island, settled in her life. But a knock on the door changes everything, in the long awaited follow up to ‘Brooklyn’. Is the past a foreign country, and what of Jim and Eilis?
The Snakehead -Patrick Radden Keefe
‘The Snakehead’ by Patrick Radden Keefe is an incredibly researched and compelling book about Chinese migrants chasing the American dream, and the snakeheads who help them achieve it. Narrative non-fiction at it’s best.
The Heart in Winter by Kevin Barry
With ‘The Heart in Winter’, Kevin Barry creates a sort of Irish Western set in Montana in 1881, about two lovers fleeing across country, pursued by bounty hunters, in an engrossing and vivid novel that crackles with life.
I Am That by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaja
‘I am that’ is considered to be a spiritual classic. But how relevant are the dialogues between Nisargadatta and his visitors for the modern day nonduality seeker?
Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle
More condensed than ‘The Power of Now’ but Eckhart Tolle’s teachings are just as potent in this short follow up to the the best seller.
The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley
At an exclusive wellness retreat on the Dorset coastline, pampered guests are in for a surprise at the midnight feast in Lucy Foley’s darkly enjoyable thriller.
Earth by John Boyne
‘Earth’ is the story of a young professional footballer who is on trial in a sexual assault case, in another concise and engaging story from master storyteller John Boyne.
Saltblood by Francesca De Tores
‘Saltblood’ is a rip roaring nautical epic based on the real life historical figure of Mary Read. Lyrical and wise, it explores freedom and and identity, all the while remaining a page turner.
Effortless Being by David Bingham
David Bingham writes with clarity about effortless being.
Poor by Kationa O’Sullivan
‘Poor’ by Katriona O’Sullivan is a riveting and powerdful memoir about her upbringing from abject poverty and homelessness to the heights of academia.
North Woods by Daniel Mason
North Woods is the story of a plot of land in rural masachussets, told over 400 years and via 12 interconnected stories, ranging from painters to panthers.
Book Review - This is Natto by Daniel Erichsen
Insomnia is a circular problem, where you can’t sleep because you are trying to sleep. I wake up at 2:18 am because I’m afraid of waking up at 2:18 am and see if Daniel Erichnsens book will help my insomnia.
Book Review - Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton
‘Boy Swallows universe’ by Trent Dalton is an exuberant, wild ride of a book that grips you from the start and doesn’t let go.
Perfect Brilliant Stillness -Beyond the Individual Self by David Carse
‘Perfect Brilliant Stillness’ by David Carse is a classic in the nonduality genre, beautiful, uncompromising and profound. Even if the writer recommends you don’t read it.
Mala's Cat: A Memoir of Survival in World War II by Mala Kacenberg
This is the story of Mala and her escape from the Nazis in Poland, where she is befriended by a stray cat, in a harrowing tale of survival.
Book Review - Wild Houses by Colin Barrett
In a small Irish town, this gripping tale takes place against a backdrop of isolation and desperation. Compelling, real and with moments of humour, this is a cracking read.
Book Review -Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
This is the story that follows two friends who form a games company across the decades in an engaging, nostalgic read.
Audiobook Review - Big Beacon: A Lighthouse Rebuilt, A Broadcaster Reborn
Using an innovative dual narrative structure, ‘Big Beacon’ tells the story of how Norwich’s best broadcaster rebuilt both his broadcasting career and an old lighthouse.
Quickly, While They Still Have Horses by Jan Carson
This collection of 16 short stories are sometimes dark, quirky, moving, occasionally absurd, and always inventive and readable. A fine book from one of my favourite modern Irish writers.
Who Am I?/Be As You Are by Ramana Maharshi and David Godman
Sri Ramana Maharshi is one of the most famous Indian gurus. I’ve read two books about him recently - how relevant is his message?
