Reviews by Andrea (28)

Andrea 2024-04-06 The Limits of Genius

The Dumb things Smart People Do

The Limits of Genius

Reading the introduction is essential to enjoying this book. As the author points out, the only reason why we aren't lambasted for own follies is that we're not recognised geniuses! I found some of the stories to be about lesser-known geniuses, and that was interesting in itself: things like the guy who first noticed a supernova being besotted with a drunken moose and incorrect theory of how the universe works. I will look forward to finishing it - I didn't have time to when I first had it.

Andrea 2024-04-06 The Gallows Pole

Based on fact. Very gritty. Excellent read

The Gallows Pole

I absolutely loved reading this book. It was only after completing it that I discovered that its roots in reality extend beyond the mere fact that coin clipping was once a crime carrying the death penalty. The author worked with a descendant of the main character in this book who, in turn, has published a non-fiction account of the Yorkshire coin clippers. The result is, I believe, very realistic. These were people who didn't understand the consequences of debasing a currency that relied on the weight of gold in each coin to determine its worth. To a certain extent they were able to improve the fortunes of the local people who supported their enterprise. But inevitably, a degree of mobster mentality began to creep in, and with the "business" affecting entire communities, it got out of control. Given the scale it ultimately achieved, it attracted the attention of law enforcement officials. Its downfall was inevitable. Equally inevitable, the "civilizing" influence of looming industrialisation and land grabs paint a stark picture. Superb historical novel!

Andrea 2024-03-27 The Reindeer Hunters

Very "Norwegian"

The Reindeer Hunters

This book is the second in a series and may be better if you read the preceding one. It stands alone quite well, but can be confusing. I say it's "Norwegian" based on the rather bleak stereotype that nation has earned. It was well-written, but I found it a little slow in places. Nevertheless, it delivered a fascinating insight into rural life in a challenging environment during a time of global change. Richard's thorough review explains the plot and its setting nicely, so there's no real need to say more.

Andrea 2024-03-27 The Black Dress

Entertaining Read

The Black Dress

I enjoyed this book and found it quite amusing in places. The characters were well-drawn and there was a twist to the tale. Although it would be easy to categorise as "women's fiction," I think the story is strong enough to entertain just about anyone.

Andrea 2024-03-09 How to be good

Funny and rather thought provoking

How to be good

Can anyone really be "all good?" In this story, a "good" woman with a grumpy husband is about to leave him when he undergoes a transformation at the hands of a hippie guru of sorts. Suddenly, he's "all good." The result is some truly hilarious scenarios that would make for a great comedy movie. And the truth it exposes is that we need to be at least a little bit selfish or "bad." Loved this book! I also found it interesting that a male author can write from a woman's perspective and still be absolutely convincing. It's a pet theory of mine that only really good authors can develop characters of the opposite sex believably. Hats off! This isn't great literature, but its a brilliant read!

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