Books of Interest

'Wires and Shadows' Painting by Donna Marsh

I am keeping my local librarian busy searching for Graham Greene books. The latest one is a little different. Mr Greene worked for MGM under contract for a couple of years as a screenwriter. The Tenth Man was a story idea that he wrote for MGM; it wasn't made into a film but in the 1980s the story was published with some additions and background by Greene himself. I don't think he enjoyed the arrangement but he needed the money in the 1940s. I've allways liked the films that Greene was involved with like The Third Man and Our Man of Havana.

Another book that I enjoyed re-reading is 'Staying On' by Paul Scott. He won the Booker prize for his efforts in 1977. Philip Larkin gave it high praise and recommended it highly, especially for those who have served in the military and their partners. I am even buying used books by Larkin for my own bookcase.

For late night reading we have collection of mysteries, some by PD James who is still writing books in her late eighties. Her books are rich in background and characters. I have always had trouble solving any of the murder cases. I have requested a DVD set from the library that features Adam Dalgleish, the intrepid detective who keeps on working for New Scotland Yard.

The Power and glory by Graham Greene

Dog portrait above in memory of our favourite terrier, Jason.

The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene


I just finished reading this book with an introduction by John Updike in large print. Both Greene and Updike are great writers in my book. At the same time I was reading The Go-Between by L. P. Hartley; quite a different kettle of fish. The first book written in 1940 and the second in 1953. I recommend them both highly. John Updike who recently died caught the atmosphere of the Greene book in just a few pages.

The books are morality tales; the Greene book presenting a world in Mexico at its worst and the Hartley book set in most comfortable surroundings in a large house in Norfolk. However, both books end in death for the priest before a firing squad and the tenant farmer by his own hand.

If you enjoy good writing these two books will perk your interest despite some of the events that unfold. Some characters you won't easily forget like the whisky priest, Mr Tench the dentist, the banana plantation manager, the police chief and the lieutenant, and in the other book the schoolboy Leo, Marian, Lord Trimingham and Ted Burgess.

Good reading to you all...

Sunday Reflections

Our home was bathed in sunshine today with a cooling wind after rain and snow overnight. I was inspired to try my new camera outside and try to capture views of birds and pets in the wild.

See above for four examples.

Now for three images from inside the house. (For some reason the pictures were loaded at the top of the page; given time I will figure out the right sequence of entry).

Enjoy the great outdoors thanks to a great camera...

After a dull start to the day we are bathed in sunlight and watching a beautiful sunset over a sea of snow. It has even warmed up as well. I have kept reading Kurt Vonnegut's books. I have finished Bluebeard about the Abstract Expressionism art movement in New York. This is a book that isn't as black as some of his other efforts. I am struggling with Welcome to the Monkey House which are collection of stories he wrote for magazines in the 1950s and 60s. Some don't hit the mark but others make you smile. He is very good about social interactions and how they can go awry. Dorothy went to Kingston and collected her Mom yesterday and brought her to the farm for a change of scene. I hope the weather stays mild and sunny.