The good news: books will never go out of fashion as holiday gifts. The bad news: the number of shopping days until December 25th insists on dropping by one every 24 hours. If you're planning some printed purchases, here a few Austenesque … [Read more...] about Austenesque books for Christmas
Random musings
Everything from early-morning thoughts to late-night questions, with a small break for afternoon tea and cake.
Introducing “Cake and Courtship”
Imagine Mr Bennet, comfortable at Longbourn surrounded by his books. And the door firmly shut against interruptions. Now imagine him advising a young man on how best to court a lady. You can't? Neither can Mr Bennet. But then the son of an old … [Read more...] about Introducing “Cake and Courtship”
My other favourite books: #3 The Gruffalo
Books often have a time and a place in life. With the Gruffalo, it was winter evenings when our two sons were much younger. (Now they have evolved from the Gruffalo to merely gruff.) Winters in Austria arrive with a capital W. Temperatures below … [Read more...] about My other favourite books: #3 The Gruffalo
My other favourite books: #2 Persuasion
Persuasion? Blasphemy! Stay behind after class, Mark, and write 100 times on the blackboard: I will not disrespect Mr Darcy. I will not disrespect Mr Darcy So, of all the Jane Austen novels, why is this one my favourite? Well, why not? Pride and … [Read more...] about My other favourite books: #2 Persuasion
My other favourite books: #1 The Discworld novels
Terry Pratchett's Discworld books always leave me like an apprentice decorator in the Sistine Chapel. I stare sadly at my paint roller and a bucket of "Daffodil White" emulsion, knowing I will never get close to that level of quality. Wit, wisdom, … [Read more...] about My other favourite books: #1 The Discworld novels
The Darcy Proposal #TheDarcyLook
With thanks to my sons Michael and Patrick for water management and camera operation. And to Mrs B for keeping her laughter under control. Video on Facebook Video on Twitter Visit Chawton House Library to learn about this important literary … [Read more...] about The Darcy Proposal #TheDarcyLook