Adult Fiction
Mere – Danielle Giles
Set in 990AD in Norfolk, this story revolves around a convent that is situated in the fens and surrounded by a vast and treacherous Mere (a very large boggy lake). The holy sisters go quietly about their lives tending to their duties which include the small village nearby. Sister Hilda offers an infirmary and provides what care she can, using local herbs and, a little knowledge from the “old” pagan ways. However, this contentment is shattered when a local boy disappears into the Mere. The Abbess, Sister Sigeburg, fears her grip on the convent wanning. When Sister Wulfrun arrives, she brings even more secrets. Sister Wulfrun has a vision and says a curse is about to befall the convent – is she saint or serpent! Hilda is drawn to Wulfrun and her mysterious past – there are stories that she was once married to a rich Lord and to stop the curse will they both have to enter the Mere!
This is a beautiful historical novel. Very atmospheric. The story really captures the nuns isolated lives and their fear of the unknown. It is also a tender love story.
Is she really going out with him – Sophie Cousens, as reviewed from B&NES virtual library
This is a bright, bubbly modern romance story, based in Bath. There are some great descriptions of local landmarks like the Roman Baths, the Guildhall and even the Jane Austen Centre. With the 250th Anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth last year the story even concludes with everyone dressed in Regency finery in the ballroom of the Guildhall. We meet Anna, divorced and trying to navigate her single life with her two children and family cat! Anna works for a local Bath Magazine and is told that she needs to find a new direction for her back cover column. Enter her office nemesis Will, who seems quick to suggest a joint enterprise. Is he trying to push her out of the business with his dapper clothes,good looks, and enviable swagger? In a fun twist, Anna’s children pick seven possible suitors for her to go on dates with, all in the name of research for her new column. Will these dates be enough to save her career? Could she possibly find love in amongst an eclectic mix of single men? With the backdrop of the annual Austen Festival in Bath, this light-hearted read is perfect for Austen fans and anyone who loves a happy ending.
Graphic Novel
Hamlet – Manga Shakespeare, illustrated by Emma Vieceli
There are several Manga and Graphic novels in Bath Library. This book is an imaginative interpretation of the classic Hamlet tale. Set in a war-torn cyberworld, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark sees the ghost of his late father. He reveals who murdered him – his own brother. This news devastates Hamlet and he spirals into paranoia and treachery.
This format is a great way, particularly for 15–16-year-olds to read Shakespeare as the book uses Shakespeare’s original text., along with Japanese Manga style drawing.
Children’s Fiction
The Tales of Olga da Polga – Michael Bond
A real Children’s classic read – in fact I used to read this as a child and who does not like guinea pigs! In fact Olga is no ordinary guinea pig – she is very special. When she arrives at her new hutch – in the home of Mr & Mrs Sawdust (the name Olga gives her new family), she knows that everything is fine, in fact very fine indeed and Olga loves telling everyone her stories – from the Cat to all the other animals she meets in her adventures. This book was written by Michael Bond, who wrote Paddington and all the Olga stories are delightful, especially if you have your very own Olga da Polga.
The Famous Five: Five go off in a Caravan – Enid Blyton
Meet Julian, Dick, Anne, George and of course Timmy the dog – the famous five who always get up to some great adventures. The long summer holidays are starting, and the gang would like to go somewhere different for their holidays. They usually go to George’s house in Kirran but her scientist father is knee deep in experiments! They vote to go on a caravan holiday. Off they go, in two caravans, pulled by horses. They come across a circus and hope there will be lots of entertainment with animals and clowns. But of course, two of the performers are acting very oddly. There is treasure, caves and poor Timmy in danger. Can they get help in time.
Library News
Look out for the BookTrust storytimes this month for our younger readers. We will be showcasing a selection of books in our Storytime sessions, along with crafts and you will get a chance to vote on your favourite, from Five Enormous Dinosaurs to The Jellyfish Jiggle.
As always there is so much going on in all our libraries, and it’s all free. So drop in and see what’s on offer. Tuesday 9.30-10am & 10.30-11.00am term time only 0-5 years, for families with children, sing along at Baby Bounce and Rhyme, or get comfy whilst listening to stories at our ever-popular Storytime. Thursday at 10.30am at Keynsham Library – term time only and for 0-4 years.
Come along, with a cushion and listen to some fantastic new stories. For adults, we’ve got book clubs, writing classes, and much more throughout the year. Joining the library costs nothing, so pop in or visit www.librarieswest.org.uk to also access thousands of eBooks, eMagazines, Audiobooks, and a wealth of other resources! Our ‘Virtual Library’ has loads going on, including the latest library news, competitions, book reviews and, all our digital offers. Search ‘Bath and North East Somerset Libraries’ on social media or visit bathneslibraries.wordpress.com
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