The short story collection I’m reading is Lore Segal’s Ladies’ Lunch and Other Stories of which I’ve only read the titular piece about a group of friends in their 80s and 90s who meet for lunch every week, setting an agenda for discussion after airing their decrepitude. A dryly witty, poignant account of ageing and decline, it’s empathetic and funny, raising hopes for the shorter 
The non-fiction book I’m reading is Peter Carpenter’s Bowieland which sees the author, a longtime David Bowie fan, deciding to explore on foot the many places his hero lived after receiving a ‘get out and walk’ prescription when a heart condition lands him in hospital. I’m about halfway through what is really a labour of love, stuffed full of Bowie anecdotes and trivia. Definitely one for the tbr for hardcore Bowie fans, although it’s bit too long for me.
The novel I’m reading is Regina Porter’s The Rich People Have Gone Away in which a couple in a complicated marriage leaves Brooklyn during lockdown, heading to the Catskills. After they row on a hike, Darla stomps off while Theo makes desultory attempts to find her, leaving her behind, pregnant, on a freezing cold day. Told through a variety of characters linked to the couple, who all have stories to tell, it felt a little disjointed at first but clicked for me after a few chapters. Porter’s take on race, class and privilege is interesting,
What about you? What are you reading?
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I recently read Bowieland and thought it was brilliant…but then I am a huge Bowie fan.
Tailor made for you, then! It’s brought back lots of memories, musical and otherwise.
I like the sound of the rich people have gone away and love the idea behind the Bowie!
Definitely glad I stuck with the Porter. Bowieland is certainly worth a look if you’re a fan.
I like Lore Segal’s writing so this one really appeals.
The opening piece was excellent, Cathy. I’m keen to read more by her.
Lucinella is great fun, really strange and experimental
I’ll add it to my list. Thanks, Cathy.
I’m reading Once the Deed Is Done by Rachel Seiffert which will complete my reading of the shortlist fot the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fition. Set in Northern Germany in 1945.
I’ve not read anything by her for a while but I remember enjoying her early books particularly The Dark Room.
I loved Seiffert’s book. I am a big fan of her books having read a few. I wonder if it will win the WS prize.
I had to take the Regina Porter back to the library before I’d even started it. But I’ve just finished Emma Donoghue’s Paris Express and Megan Hunter’s Days of Light – both recommended. And my very first graphic novel, Barbara Yelin’s Irmina, proved to be an eye-opening treat.
I loved Days of Light. She developed Ivy’s character so well. I’ll check out Paris Express which might well appeal given my recent trip! I’ve read just one graphic novel, well over a decade ago.
Paris Express is an interesting look at social history as much as anything. It’s not strong on plot – it’s not meant to be. But recommended nevertheless. Yes, Ivy was a thoroughly interesting character. A good read.
I like the sound of that. Thanks, Margaret.
I’m not familiar with these books, enjoy!
Last #book I finished: Arsène #Lupin, Gentleman-Thief, by #MauriceLeblanc
#Amreading: The Chinese Bell Murders (#JudgeDee), by #RobertvanGulik
#Amlistening to: Le Crime du paradis, by #GuillaumeMusso
#TBR Reading next: The Blind Woman of Sorrento, by
#FrancescoMastriani
Thank you. Likewise for me with your list although I’m familiar with Arsene Lupin from the Netflix series. Not sure how true to the books that is.
I am heading to Paris in early June, you inspired me Susan, ha ha. So I am currently reading Gertrude Stein’s The Autobiography of Alice B Toklas. An interesting insight into Stein’s writing style, bit heavy on detail and name dropping! Have a few French themed books lined up to read. Still working my way through Anne Enright’s book of essays and Seamus Heaney’s 100 Poems book.
Lovely time to visit, Lucy. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. I keen to read the Levy although I don’t always get on well with her writing. Good to take your time with essays and poetry.
I intend buying Levy’s book next week in Dublin. Heading to the International Literature Festival.
That sounds great. Have fun!
These all sound appealing! I especially like the sound of Ladies Lunch.
Segal’s writing is very appealing. I’ll certainly be reading more of her.
I adored Bowieland – but then I’m an ardent fan and come from his bit of South London!
That must add a lot to reading it, Annabel!
Yes, the other stories in Ladies Lunch are also very good.
Good to know. Thanks, Davida.
Glad to hear you’re enjoying Ladies’ Lunch so far. As you say, Segal’s observations are flecked with dry wit.
Thanks, Jacqui. She’s a sharp observer, isn’t she. I’d like to read more by her.