A last look at the latest new arrivals, and there are some famous names beside less familiar ones.
Michael Ondaatje needs no introduction, but I have yet to read him so I have his best known book, The English Patient, with which to remedy that.
Next, "Finnish wit as sharp as the Arctic weather", a long-time bestseller in its native country and in France, this is Arto Paasilinna's The Year of the Hare. A disillusioned journalist runs into a young hare on a country road; he goes in search of the creature and "this small incident becomes a life-changing experience as he decides to break free from the world's constraints ...and travels in the wilds of Finland with his new-found friend".
Another Nordic book, and one which has been on my wishlist for a while, is Tarjei Vesaas' award-winning The Ice Palace. A young girl disappears on a visit to the 'ice palace', a strange and beautiful frozen waterfall. This story, told in prose of "lyrical economy ... ranks among the most memorable achievements of modern literature."
Back to Britain and another writer I'll be reading for the first time, Justin Cartwright. His novel To Heaven By Water is just out and it is the "touching and hilarious" story of the Cross family as they come to terms with loss and secrets. Cartwright's writing has been described as beautifully observed, perceptive and dramatic - that's good enough for me!
Like you, I have not read any Justin Cartwright yet though I have his previous work, A Song Before It Is Sung, waiting for me.
Posted by: Samantha | 24 July 2009 at 07:46 AM
The Ice Palace is a great book, one that stays with you very long. I've never heard of The Year of the Hare but it sounds intriguing, I will look for it!
Posted by: padma | 24 July 2009 at 08:24 AM
The Ondaatje is quite excellent, just as good as the film it's based on (!). The Paasalinna is intriguing; I read it when I was in love with a Finnish beauty, and I did enjoy it, but it is rather unusual and conceptually challenging.
Enjoy; I look forward to your reports!
Posted by: Lindsay | 24 July 2009 at 06:37 PM
To Heaven By Water is on my list. Just came across your blog; it's great!
Posted by: diane | 25 July 2009 at 03:05 AM
I haven't seen the film, either - I think I live in a different world from the rest of you!
Posted by: Cornflower | 25 July 2009 at 10:42 AM
Thankyou, Diane!
Posted by: Cornflower | 25 July 2009 at 10:42 AM