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Beach Holiday Recommendations 2018

My Beach Holiday Recommendations 2018

Having had a recent relaxing holiday – an entire week to sit by the pool and read (5 books this year – I don’t know if I was the most sociable companion) it got me thinking about what makes a fantastic book to take in your hand luggage. For myself, I prefer to take “easy read” books, but equally there must be enough interest sustained without predictability. This is what I would see as a happy medium;

How to be Famous by Caitlin Moran. Hilariously funny, Moran writes at a voracious pace, with every phrase loaded with humour and clever observations. We follow our protagonist Dolly, a music journalist through the typical debauched London landscape Moran would have frequented. Unlike previous releases, this one is written to appeal to an adult audience, however it has the trademarks of her style – the poor, council house upbringing with several siblings, journalist elements and social commentary – particularly regarding feminism.

The End We Start From by Megan Hunter. One of the most unusual books I have ever read, and I am unsure to this day whether I have interpreted parts correctly. The book reads more like poetry than a novel and would be an excellent choice for someone who struggles to get through a book on holiday as this one is so short. Set in an apocalyptic Earth, we see a couple’s journey to safety with their child.

The Party by Elizabeth Day. One that I have previously reviewed here. Essentially, a book with a story line so good you will not be able to put it down for the visit to a castle or local ruins you had planned. Written with a furious pace, complex characters and an ending that I never predicted, this is one to make room in your case for.

Everything I know about Love by Dolly Alderton. Very much a book of this year, barely a week goes by without seeing this on my Instagram feed, the light-heartedness of this novel perfectly complements a week lazing in the sun. Realistically, on a sun lounger I don’t wish to be diving into Fyodor Dostoevsky or pondering philosophy – and this book entertains while maintaining an intelligent discourse. See review here.

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