Homage to Mr Ironmonger for a well produced book...
We won't forget the whale in a hurry but we will certainly try and forget the pub we dined in!
... Not Forgetting the Whale is a quirky, intriguing read which initially seemed a bit far fetched. But as the story of 'the not psychologically up to the job' Joe unfolds, it becomes more and more credible. The first page sees Joe being saved by the Whale. Joe, in turn, with the villagers, then saves the beached Whale and, thus, he is taken into the hearts of the remote Cornish village people of St Piran.
The story then unfolds, switching between the dog eat dog world of The City and the larger than life characters of a small village without the trappings of the outside world.
A world descending in to chaos due to economic collapse and world-wide epidemic is not hard to imagine. But, despite the 'we are doomed' attitude the positive side of human nature shines through
to give us, on the whole, an uplifting and enjoyable read whilst lurking in the background is the unforgettable whale ...
This book was recommended by our local book shop, The Forum in Corbridge. Mr Ironmonger was described as a readers writer and we were not to be put off by the cover which, in their opinion, didn't seem to be marketing the book well. This book really struck a chord with 3 out of 4 in our book group. Not bad going considering we have been very hard to please as of late, so well done Mr Ironmonger. You have restored our faith in human nature!
Although it was agreed it wasn't a real page turner, it was enjoyed because it was so very different to most of our recent book choices. It was engaging and interesting. Well balanced and thought provoking. Simplistic and unsophisticated making it an easy read. Our cake baker was particularly moved by the human nature side of the story and the supply chain of our sophisticated world. Another member thought it would make a delightful film. Rather like 'Local Hero' remarked another member who, although enjoyed the book, felt it lacked a bit more humour and came to a rather abrupt end.
So. All in All. A good read. One for the Summer Holiday Suitcase ....
Don't forget to read this book
.... INSERT! A question and answer session between one of our members and Mr Ironmonger.
... Our venue of choice to discuss this month's book was The Traveller's Rest, Slaley, Northumberland.
Unfortunately, this pub failed to reach the mark. Although it appeared to be open plan they seem to have marked areas where you are waited on and others where you are not. The menu seemed very extensive for a small country pub and our fears were realised when huge portions of bland, unseasonal, frozen and microwaved meals were served in a cold back room by frosty staff and an aroma of old chip fat in the air. It could have been so much better. We were very disappointed and really don't feel inclined to give it another go!
The Traveller's Rest. Slaley. Northumberland.
... Next month's book choice is back in history to the last wife of Henry VIII
The Taming of the Queen by Philippa Gregory
.... Join us at the beginning of June to air your thoughts about the last wife of Henry VIII.
17 May 2016
