I have been reading, as promised, the first book of the Cazalet Chronicles by Elizabeth Jane Howard. If you haven’t read it, it’s terrific, I really recommend it. I especially like how accurately and sympathetically Howard renders children, their inner thoughts and feelings. I also enjoy with almost a physical lust sensation all the housekeeping detail. “Mrs Cripps poached the salmon, made a mayonnaise, two Victoria Sponges and a pint of custard…” etc. The Second World War does come along, alas, at the end of this first book but I trust Howard to cast a rosy gloss over it, the same way she does with everything else.
Porcelain is a memoir by the DJ Moby and it is surprisingly brilliant, honest and very funny. You don’t have to like his – or any – music to enjoy it.
I’ve just finished the fourth of the five Cazalet Chronicles, Casting Off, and can’t wait to start the fifth. They have quite possibly been my favourite ever books. Agree with you about her ability to portray children so accurately. Am saying NOTHING about her treatment of WW2.
I am SO envious that you still have the other books to read. I loved the Cazalet Chronicles.
I loved the Cazalet Chronicles too. They are all great, except the last one which was only good.
Omg Esther I am on holiday and have been unable to put down my book, The Impossibility of Love by Hannah Rothschild. I don’t want to say anything else as its full of twists and excitement, but do put it on your reading list!
Loved the Cazelets. TV adaptation was not bad either
Apologies Esther in my excitement to tell you about the book I made a mistake with the name! It’s the Improbability not impossibility of love. Hope you get the chance to read it.
Thanks Charlotte, it’s on my list x
Robbie Williams Feel biography sounds similar – I’m not particularly a fan, but it was a cracking read. It’s a bit old now but good for a charity shop find.
I like your recommendations but I am really not sure about the Cazelets. Is it twee? I think I am in more of a thrillery place. I might poach Charlotte’s recommendation.
I started the first Cazalet book on your recommendation, and a few chapters in thought it was a bit dull and slow. Three weeks later and I’m absolutely devouring book 5, already grieving because I’m going to run out of that world soon. Thank you: it’s been a tough few weeks, but at least my commute has been blissful.