With the Easter holidays just around the corner, why not celebrate with these cracking book choices from our librarian Elaine? There are egg-citing adventures, and egg-cellent love stories to enjoy. The best bit? You can get them all from the library, so you won’t have to shell out for them!
Top non-fiction: Horses, Heifers And Hairy Pigs: The Life Of A Yorkshire Vet by Julian Norton
A fascinating look at the modern-day work of the veterinary practice made famous in the books of James Herriot. Julian’s story is told with warmth and humour but highlights the long hours and dedication needed to become a vet.
There are many funny stories and anecdotes, but the book also covers more serious issues such as the terrible foot and mouth outbreak at the beginning of this century. The perfect read for lovers of animals and Yorkshire.
Top fiction: The Lost Letters Of William Woolf by Helen Cullen
William Woolf is a letter detective at the Dead Letters Depot. He works in the lost letters department where his job is to ensure that letters and parcels wrongly addressed, or with the address missing, find their way.
When William finds lost letters addressed to “My Great Love”, his discovery sets him on an investigative trail and, inadvertently, a path of self-discovery.
This is an engaging story about what happens when letters don’t reach their destination, and the hopes desires and ambitions that remain unfulfilled as a result. It explores how one man tries to take on the task of ensuring these letters fulfil their purpose in a beautiful tale of love, relationships, hopes and heartache.
Top audio book: Daisy’s Vintage Cornish Camper Van by Ali McNamara
Ana is left a camper van when her close friend dies. She travels to St Felix in Cornwall to collect the van but finds that it is less than roadworthy. While restoring the van, Ana discovers unsent postcards in the upholstery and she becomes determined to find the person they were intended for.
Her investigations introduce her to many fascinating local characters. An uplifting romantic read/listen. Perfect for listening to during the upcoming summer holidays.
Top children’s book: A Place Called Perfect by Helena Duggan
There’s something strange going on in a town called Perfect. Why are all the residents blind? Why is Mum acting so weird? Where’s Dad? Violet and her friend Boy investigate. They discover a creepy graveyard, the Watchers and a place called No Man’s Land.
A spooky and atmospheric adventure that carries you along from the start. It has wonderfully wicked villains, brave heroes and very strange tea!
Librarian’s choice: The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart
This is the story of the young Merlin from his early childhood to when he becomes embroiled in Uther Pendragon’s plot to seduce Ygraine leading to the birth of Arthur. Mary Stewart writes beautifully and evocatively and her characters seem real and human.
She skilfully weaves together history and mythology resulting in a more believable version of the legends of Merlin and Arthur. If you enjoy this book, the story of Merlin and Arthur continues in ‘The Hollow Hills’ and ‘The Last Enchantment’.
Have you read any of the books featured this month? We’d love to hear what you thought! Leave your reviews in the comments below. Missed last month’s top five? Catch up on them here.
You can find out more about libraries in East Sussex by visiting the East Sussex County Council website.
