Read Before You See
If you have spent a bit of time watching films over the holidays then perhaps this post should be titled ‘see before you read’…. but there are lots of serial and film adaptations of books out at the moment and we have lots of them in the shop
"Poor Things" is a novel that reimagines Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" in a Victorian Glasgow setting. The story is presented as the memoir of Archibald McCandless, a doctor who recounts the life of Bella Baxter, a woman brought back to life through a scientific experiment. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of identity, power, and societal expectations. The novel is a complex and layered exploration of the consequences of scientific experimentation and the ethical implications of playing with life.
This contemporary ghost story is now a major film starring Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott! Strangers by Taichi Yamada is a haunting and atmospheric novel that intricately weaves together elements of mystery, supernatural occurrences, and human relationships. Set in modern-day Tokyo, the story follows Harada, a middle-aged script writer who moves into a new apartment after his marriage ends. He meets a likeable man who looks exactly like his long-dead father. From here, Harada is thrust into a reality where his parents are seemingly alive, at the same age as when they died.
In an alternate world, women develop the power to generate electrical power, giving them a physical advantage over men. The story unfolds through multiple narrators whose lives are affected by this newfound power, exploring the societal implications, power dynamics, and the consequences of such a radical shift. Alderman's novel delves into thought-provoking themes related to gender, politics, and human nature, offering a compelling and provocative narrative that challenges traditional notions of power and authority.
All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
A beautifully written historical novel that weaves together the lives of two characters during World War II. Marie-Laure LeBlanc, a blind French girl, and Werner Pfennig, a German orphan with a talent for radio technology, are brought together by the war. The novel unfolds in a non-linear narrative, shifting between their perspectives and timelines. As they navigate the challenges of the war, the story explores themes of survival, humanity, and the enduring power of hope.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
This prequel to the original Hunger Games trilogy follows a young President Coriolanus Snow as he navigates the challenges of a society reeling from war and hunger. Selected as a mentor for the 10th Hunger Games, Coriolanus is assigned the District 12 tribute, Lucy Gray Baird, a talented and enigmatic singer. As Coriolanus navigates the political machinations and personal dilemmas, the novel explores the moral complexities of survival, power, and the human spirit. Through its intricate narrative, Collins masterfully crafts a tale that questions the very essence of right and wrong, showcasing the blurred lines between heroism and villainy
