October Recommendations
Looking for some reading/ viewing/ listening and seasonal cooking recommendations.
I’ve been enjoying these- for mind, body and soul.
Reading:
The magnificent, exquisite ‘The Marriage Portrait’ by Maggie O’Farrell, followed by ‘The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox . I’ll be making my way through her back catalog. Next stop, Hamnet. I’m clearly late to Maggie O’Farrell game
Homelands, by Chitra Ramaswamy. I wrote these words just after reading it. The memory of the book has lingered months on. ‘‘This is a ‘strange’ (in Ramaswamy’s own words) read, criss-crossing histories, continents, time, memory, identity, place and that ever evolving question of belonging. Touching on the past, it brings to life the pertinence and presence of colonialism and post-colonialism, identity politics, mis-placed nationalism, the abiding scars and continuing legacy of fascism, and, importantly, how friendship can be both a revelation and a balm.
The Crane’s Wife. Following on from her remarkable essay in The Paris Review, author CJ Hauser, has brought out a book of memoir essays, some in particular are a finely crafted tale of coming of age in America and the complexities of dating life. A bit of a mix bag , but in the main, worth a read.
Listen to the Land Speak by Manchan Magan. I’ve been diving into this new publication from land-lover, Irish speaker, curious being that is Manchan Magan. He has a way of bringing land and ancient language to life, explaining the current relevance of myth and legend with ethereal sensibility and a generous nod to the importance of reclaiming our connection to Ireland’s ancient and at time mystical becomings. Beauty-fulll.
And I love the audio narration of ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ by Bonnie Garmus - a gem of a first novel, published when she was in her mid-60s. I find this exceptionally reassuring. I just adored the way Bonnie conjured her characters in this story and looking forward to reading more from her. I know she has a second novel in the works.
Listening:
I’m enjoying the current season on The Women’s Prize for Fiction podcast’, (particularly the episode with Ali Smith in particular),
On a long return drive up and down the country, I listened to back episodes of Desert Island discs (this is their full catalogue) ! Robert MacFarlane, Desmond Tutu, Mary Robinson, and the singular voice of Maya Angelou, collectively made me cry, laugh and open my heart to possibility.
Learning:
I’m currently taking part in Emergence Magazine’s ‘Writing from the Roots II ‘course. More courses on offer soon. Plus if you are not familiar with Emergence Magazine, I HIGHLY recommend- some of the finest writing out there.
Watching:
I had a subscription to Mubi for a few months and totally loved these two cinematic gems. - Nest and Limbo
Seasonal Cooking:
There has been an abundance of apples. And when life gives you apples, it’s time for … Chutney. Plus this amazing apple and olive oil cake with maple icing from Yotam Ottolenghi (a cake which was delightfully shared among neighbours), and baked apples (with almonds),
Hope you enjoy some of these.