Read then Write - 14/5/26

Well since last week I have finished Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg. I did enjoy it but I found some of the historical parts of the book a little bit confusing to follow as they weren't always in a chronological order. However following Faith's recommendation I watched the film which I really enjoyed and it helped make more sense of the book.

I've now moved on to Penitence by Kristin Koval which is about what happens after teenager Nora shoots her brother dead.

Yes I know it sounds a bit grim but it was recommended in a magazine I read and yes, it ticks a 52 Book club prompt - the Kindle edition was released in 2026.

We had a good meet up with my afternoon book group yesterday where we discussed Hotel Du Lac. Most of us didn't enjoy it that much and found it quite slow. Good to be in the majority.

And now for something a bit different which I'm copying from Faith, who copied it from Barbara who got it from Paula at Between the Bookends.

1. Bookmarks or dog-ears?

Absolutely has to be Bookmarks. I have a lot of them. Quite a few are promotional ones from when I had a book club subscription and there aren't any really fancy ones but turning corners down is a big no for me.

2. Book accessories?

I have a reading light somewhere but I hardly use it. What I need to get is something my husband has that keeps the book open. His is a really simple version of this:

IF Charcoal Gimble Traveler hands free reading tool.,Urban grey,20 cm : Amazon.co.uk: Home & Kitchen

(This one folds when not in use, my Husband's doesn't.

3. Are you a fast or slow reader?

I'm definitely not slow but I wouldn't say I'm exceptionally fast. And it depends on what's meant by this. As in do you read quite quickly when reading. Or do you get through books quickly because you're consistent with your reading? For me that would depend on how engaging the book is. Some books I might get through in a few days, others might take me a week or longer.

4. Have you ever written to an author?

Not exactly but I did follow an author's blog for a while and we'd exchange comments.

5. Have you ever met an author in person?

No

6. Do you have a favourite character who is not the main character?

It's too late in the day to think of an answer for that.

7. Do you have any bookish merchandise?

No - well apart from some bookends on my shelves.

8. Favourite book from childhood?

Little Women, the What Katy Did series, lots by Enid Blyton.

9. Do you read one book at a time, or several?

One at a time usually.

10. Favourite genre?

Crime Thrillers

11. Genres you don’t care for?

Gothic, Science Fiction, Westerns

12. Best movie based on a book? Worst?

It took me a long time to get through Lord of the Rings and then I binge watched the films which I loved. I've enjoyed all the Harry Potter films too.

I can't remember watching a film and thinking it wasn't as good as the book or that the film didn't follow the book.

What are you currently reading?