I’m not going to lie to you…I’ve been neglecting my BBC Big Read challenge again (bit like the ol’ blog, really). My goal was to finish the remaining books by the end of this year, and I’m starting to think I might not make it, despite having so few left. Time for a library visit, methinks!
The last Top 200 book I read was The Wasp Factory, which was an intriguing, disturbing, compelling read. The main character was likeable and a little horrific, but the story was told in such an interesting way that I couldn’t put it down. It tells the story of Frank, who lives with his father on a Scottish Island; his older brother has escaped from an institution and is making his way home, while Frank reminisces over the three young relatives he has killed.
I’ve just finished The White Masai and Back From Africa, both by Corinne Hofmann. The first was an intriguing true story, and while Hofmann isn’t a particularly talented writer, her story is fascinating and a really interesting read. She tells her story of falling in love with a Masai warrior and her subsequent move to Kenya to be his wife. Her life in Kenya was fraught with illness and adventure, making for a compelling novel. The second is a sequel, and I found it very self-indulgent and not as interesting as the first; I doubt I’ll seek out the other “sequels” she has written since.
Tall, Short, Tiny & a Pickle 
At least you’ve still been able to read! Good luck and I hope you get to meet your goal x
Thanks lovely! x
Have you ever noticed that all characters called Frank in stories are weirdos! (ha ha!- true story! Guess who noticed!?!)
Iain Banks was such an interesting author. He wrote some amazing books. Although there were a few scenes in the Wasp Factory that turned my stomach, I’m glad that I’ve read it. If you enjoyed The Wasp Factory, try “Complicity” also by Iain Banks.
Haha!!
I’ll try Complicity – I did enjoy The Wasp Factory for all its oddness!
I read The White Masai as a teenager and found it fascinating as well!