2nd January 2023
More of a collection of shorter experiments than his other books, which focus on a single (mis)adventure. This still contains all Mr Jacobs' usual self-deprecating wit and heart. He seems like he would be a lovely person to know, but I'm not sure his wife would always agree.
I didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would, but it's possible I just over-hyped it in my own mind. Mr Grohl still comes across as "the nicest guy in rock" and it offers great insight into a couple of the biggest rock bands of all time.
Until this point, the only Murakami I had read was his memoir, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running. As one of his most popular novels, this seemed like a good entry point. I really enjoyed it and will definitely look to try others of his in the future.
If you enjoyed Ready Player One then you'll probably enjoy this, but there's nothing new here. If you haven't read RP1, then read that instead. Whatever you do though; DON'T WATCH THE FILM.
This was a delight from beginning to end. A gentle, heart-warming story based in an interesting historical period. The image of the Gentleman in my head was Kenneth Branagh in the recent Hercule Poirot films. Highly recommended.
In the same vein as 1984 and Brave New World this is a classical look at potential dystopian futures. While I don't think the hound provides as visceral a fear as Room 101, I can definitely see why this is held in such high regard.
Do you have any recommendations of books I should add to my list for next year? Let me know via the contact form.
