Reading on the road #6

I read a lot in San Pancho, stretched out on the beach, toes in the sand. Then we slowly made our way home and 4 flights later I'm finally working my way through all the unread books on my kindle.

Here are a few of my favourites:

A Little Life

This book blew me away. It's 700 pages that I read over a weekend and could not put it down. What starts as a tale about four college friends in New York quickly becomes the story of childhood trauma and the lasting consequences of abuse. It's gripping and emotional, full of pain and love. I still think about it a couple of months later.

Saint Mazie

Based on the real life of Mazie Philips, this book reveals itself through fictionalised diary entries and interviews with her friends and neighbours. We slowly get a picture of this 1930s New York broad, working in a movie theatre, spending her nights walking the streets of the Bowery helping the men made homeless during the Great Depression. She opened up her theatre to them, gave them food and listened to their stories – an ordinary life made extraordinary through generosity.

Year of the Runaways

Year of the Runaways tells the story of three migrant workers from India and one British-Indian woman whose lives intertwine in Sheffield. We learn why they left India and their journeys to England, living in a house with 13 people, working 2 or 3 jobs to save money to take back home. It's a topical book, bringing humanity to the issue of immigration. But above all it's a brilliant story, the kind that will make you laugh and cry.

The Life and Death of Sophie Stark

Sophie Stark is a talented young director. She grows up an feeling like an outsider, different from everyone else. And as an adult she turns that feeling into beautiful movies, using those around her to fulfil her creative vision. It's a gripping read, told through her friends, family and reviewers, about a life lived in the pursuit of art.

Catch up on more book recommendations and let me know if you've read anything good lately!