BOOKISH FINDS:

I’ve been on a teeny book buying spree this month, which I probably shouldn’t have. To be fair they have been spontaneous, spur of the moment purchases so I don’t think I can be entirely to blame. Surprisingly, I’ve picked up quite a lot of non-fiction books. It’s a bit unusual for me but I’m trying to read more outside my comfort zone, and I’ve been surprised how much I’ve enjoyed the books I have read recently.

Women & Power by Mary Beard

This is a book I’ve been wanting to read for a while. The history between women and power, gender and misogyny. Strong women have endured mistreatment throughout the ages, and I’m really interested to read how Mary combines, personal experience, myth and the current culture. I really enjoyed Mary’s enthusiasm and knowledge in her television programmes, so I think this will be a compelling read.

The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper by Hallie Rubenhold

I say this was an impulse buy, but that implies I bought it on a whim. My mum actually told me about this book a few weeks ago. She often hears about books and writers that might have slipped my notice because it’s hard to keep track sometimes. I thought it sounded interesting, but hadn’t as yet decided whether or not to buy it. Then I saw on Twitter that the author had her first book event and someone had told her she was wrong without actually reading the book. That made my mind up for me. Re-framing these infamous murders to focus on the women is important, and makes their voices heard.

How To Give up Plastic by Will McCallum

The environment isn’t something we should take for granted, and yet we do. It’s so easy to when day-to-day life is so hectic and sometimes we don’t feel like we have the energy to think about anything else. I’ve been trying to be a bit more mindful of the impact my decisions have on the environment, and make a little difference where I can. So much of it is habit, and I’m hoping this book can give some practical advice on how to make positive changes.

The Mars Room by Rachel Kushner

This is another book I’ve had my eye on for a while since it was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize last year and I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in!