Top class novel on which the film Kes was based. Story of a young boy growing up in a tough northern english town with little hope of escape.

Thanks to Karina for that.

 

Excellent uplifting book. Highly recommended.

 

Once was Bombay by Pinki Virani

 

Damning non fiction account of the corruption in modern day Mumbai as described through the experiences of five of its residents. Story brought together by the brave female journalist, Pinki Virani.

 

Very good book although being in Bombay whist reading it gives it an extra element.

 

The Painted House by John Grisham

 

Easy to read book about a young boy growing up on a cotton farm in the Arkansas, and the hardships he and his family has to endure.

 

No brainer, but entertaining nonetheless.

 

Behind the scenes at the museum by Kate Atkinson

 

Tremendous, multi layered book about three generations of family growing up in an evolving England. Booker or Whitbread prize winner, can't remember which.

 

Highly recommended.

 

The russian debutante's handbook by Gary Shteyngart

 

Very good book about a twentysomething russian immigrant trying to make his way in modern day America, before becoming involved in racketeering. 

 

Funny book in parts. Recommended 

 

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy.

 

Great evocative story set in Kerala, South India. Booker prize winner. Recommended

 

The Age of Kali By William Dalrymple

 

Top class journalistic study of various aspects of Indian life over his many years of Indian travel. And the author is Scottish. Highly, Highly recommended.

 

Holy Cow By Sarah MacDonald 

 

Very funny account of the Australian authors love hate relationship with India. Excellent.

 

India in Slow Motion By Mark Tully

 

A little bit dry an political for my tastes but informative nonetheless.

 

The Da Vinci Code By Dan Brown

 

Finally I've succumb to it. Excellent read. A rip roaring yarn. But not to be taken too seriously I think.

 

Papillon by Henri Charriere

 

Top class. True account of Henri Charriere's fight to escape from penal servitude in French Guiana. Go and get this now!

 

Voices from S21 by David Chandler

 

Depressing account of the Khmer Rouge's secret prison in Pnom Penh. I'd give it a miss unless you need to know about Cambodia's history. Reads like a dissertation with no real human interest stories. All very dry and academic. And depressing.

 

Cosa Nostra by John Dickie

 

A fascinating history of the Sicilian mafia. Not sensationalist at all. Charts the rise of the criminal organisation from the 1800's. A good, informative read.

 

The best short works of Mark Twain by Mark Twain (who else?)

 

Great stuff, as you would expect but some of the more satirical pieces were lost on me since american politics of the late 19th century are not exactly my strong point. A master storyteller.