Our readers at Blacktown QBD have diverse tastes…which means there’s a little something for everyone in this week’s Spotlight!
The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith:
I’m not normally a fan of mystery novels however The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency is a exception as it’s more about friendship, life & love & the mysteries are quite light-hearted. It’s full of wisdom, humour & such a genuine heartfelt love of Africa. Set in Botswana the series centres around main character Mma Precious Ramotswe a gentle woman with a big heart who decides to set up The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency to help those in need in the country she so loves despite it’s problems. She’s hired to solve cases like infidelity, thieves, missing children & witch doctors all while falling in love again with close friend Mr J. L. B. Matekoni. A beautifully written book which provides detailed descriptions of the land & a insight into African culture. I absolutely love the series & highly recommend it. – Wade (Store Manager)
A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess:
A Clockwork Orange, the very title has a history both cinematic and literary all of its own. Published in 1962 it was an attempt for author Anthony Burgess to exorcise the memory of the rape and subsequent death of his wife at the hands of four soldiers on leave duringthe blitz in 1940’s London. Chilling in its accuracy depicting the future where roaming gangs of teenagers commit mayhem and murder, communicating in “nadsat”- a combination of Russian and cockney- Alec and his droogs run riot until they devour one of their own. The Court’s solution takes the form of a synthetic drug, denying the subject free will. The story then becomes an ethical and moralistic debate, anarchy verses order, but at what price? The main character, Alec, has an almost compelling charm given his passion for ultraviolence and Beethoven, his narrative throughout the story is disturbingly intimate and seductive. More than 50 years after it was written, this book still has the power to shock, sicken and move the reader. -Stuart (Assistant Manager)
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman:
“They break the rules and follow their hearts. What happens next will break yours.”
I absolutely loved this book,I couldn’t put it down but didn’t want it to end. With beautiful and engaging characters that will stay with you long after you have finished reading, The Light Between Oceans will tear the characters and you apart. A book that will require a box of tissues by your side. This is M.L Stedman’s 1st novel but I certainly hope it wont be her last.- Mel
The Perfectionists by Sara Shepard:
If you can’t get enough of Sara Shephard’s Pretty Little Liars book and television series then The Perfectionists is the book for you. The story follows five girls who are eager to seek revenge on high school senior, Nolan. Nolan has done terrible things to each of the girls. For the five girls, revenge comes at an extremely high price when Nolan is found dead and secrets come out. A strong friendship is formed when they must come together to hide the truth in order to protect their perfect lives that they’re at risk of losing. – Jessie
Yes Please by Amy Poehler:
Amy Poehler’s Yes Please isn’t your typical celebrity memoir, Poehler’s intentions aren’t to divulge into the details of her marriage or give you the gossip on what she really thinks about her co-stars, but are much more humble. This book is full to the brim with humility and inspiration about the awkward yet wonderful parts of life and what it is like being a female in the comedy industry. Along with this, Yes Please offers some hilarious chapters, ranging from a haiku about plastic surgery to a satirical birthing plan. Whether you’re a lover of her shows like Saturday Night Live and Parks and Recreation or just a general fan of biographies, I guarantee this book will probably make you cringe but definitely make you laugh. – Amy
Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama:
For starters, I am pleased to say “Attack on Titan” is one of the best manga I have ever read. By the title, “Attack on Titan”, one may assume that the story is related to a fantasy/adventure type genre series. Of course, you would be correct with your assumption. However this series marks more of a dark fantasy of horror and tragedy which can be noted from the very first chapters of the manga. The series takes place in an alternate setting of the middle ages, a dark time when mankind is threatened by the appreacne of titans which threaten the existence of the human population. The titans consist of a humanoide type structure, similar facial features and bodies as to humans except they are huge! The titans lack empathy and seemingly exist for the purpose to kill and devour humans.If you love a dark adventure filled with mystery death and struggle, Attack on Titan is perfect for you. – Daniel
The Sacred Lies of Minnow Bly by Stephanie Oakes:
Haunting and captivating, The Sacred Lies of Minnow Bly is the story of a young girl who grew up in a cult community and lost her hands for defiance, and attempting freedom. Endlessly engaging, Oakes writes with the perfect pace to coax out the story and keep the reader fascinated by the sheer terror of Minnow’s past, and the wonder of her present. This novel is the perfect balance of terrifying and hopeful; definitely one of the best stand-alone releases of the year. – Alison
