Classic Review - Boy by Roald Dahl

I don't know how Roald Dahl did it! He made a childhood memoir from the early 20th century suitable for children to read.

Dahl may have grown up privileged but it doesn't mean he didn't suffer. "Boy" is mainly full of the horrible stories of pain that he had to endure throughout his younger years - beatings, surprise operations, loss and homesickness. But, somehow, he has made it light and almost fictional. If I was reading this as a child I probably would have found some of it funny, without the understanding that I have as an adult that these things were real and painful. Don't get me wrong, there are also some lovely memories there of family and, of course, various types of sweets (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory anyone?!)

A lot of the stories really display where he got ideas from for his later publications: terrifying headmasters, Oslo, his grandmother, lolly shops etc. As I was reading along I really enjoyed having little bits flick through my memory of his books and wonder if that was the inspiration. I'm super curious now about his time aboard and his time as a pilot. I might have to pick up the second installation "Going Solo" to find out more.

-@becandthebooks

Sweet Read Review - The Anniversary

"The Anniversary" by Stephanie Bishop is a poignant and emotionally charged novel that explores the complexities of family dynamics, love, loss, and the passage of time. Set against the backdrop of a significant anniversary, the story delves into the lives of its characters, revealing their shared history and individual struggles.

Bishop's prose is elegant and evocative, drawing readers into the intricate web of relationships that form the heart of the narrative. Her keen observations and vivid descriptions create a sense of intimacy with the characters, allowing readers to feel their joys, sorrows, and vulnerabilities.

The novel skillfully alternates between past and present, unraveling the layers of the characters' experiences and emotions. This narrative technique not only adds depth to the story but also captures the way memories can shape and influence one's perception of the present. The author's exploration of memory and its impact on personal identity is a central theme that resonates throughout the book.

The characters themselves are finely crafted, each carrying their own burdens and secrets. Their interactions are laced with tension, affection, and unresolved conflicts, reflecting the complexities of family relationships. As the anniversary approaches, old wounds resurface, leading to moments of confrontation and reflection that drive the emotional core of the novel.

Stephanie Bishop also delves into themes of grief and coping with loss, offering a realistic portrayal of how different characters navigate their pain. The way grief is portrayed is both raw and authentic, making it one of the most compelling aspects of the story. The characters' individual journeys toward healing and acceptance contribute to the overall sense of catharsis.

While "The Anniversary" is undeniably an exploration of human emotions, it also offers a meditation on the passage of time and the impact of significant milestones on our lives. Through its beautifully crafted narrative and well-developed characters, the novel prompts readers to reflect on their own experiences of love, loss, and the complexities of familial bonds.

-Guinevere

Sweet Read Review - Unexpected Serendipity

This is not the sort of book I usually enjoy. I don't really go in for contemporary family drama such as Jodie Picoult, Cecilia Ahearn, etc. However, Kylie Ladd has simply blown me away with this book.

I selected it as the Feb Sweet Read book almost purely for the cover and thinking it would appeal to many of our subscribers but not necessarily me. I read it mainly because we received an extra copy from the publisher.

I could not put it down.

"Three years after the death of their beloved brother, all Daniel's sisters have left of him are their memories. They know he's helped others by donating his organs, but as miracles come true for the recipients, his own family are struggling with their devastating loss.When Clare suggests that they find the people Daniel's death saved, her sisters have their doubts. Will meeting them help to bring the sisters back together, or will old tensions and surfacing secrets splinter the fragile family ties forever?"

I was genuinely involved in every one of the characters' stories from the start. Each sister and even the deceased Daniel are so very different, each has their own unique struggle or tragedy. Each sister misses Daniel equally and he seemed to be the gel that bound their separate orbits together. I actually teared up at the end, which says a lot. 

I designed the bookmark before reading the book and I’m inordinately chuffed that it turned out to be so appropriate: "Sisters are different flowers from the same garden."