I read a lot of non-fiction and I buy even more – I aim for 25% of what I read to be non-fiction and most years I come within sight of that target. I have ever growing piles of factual books waiting for my attention and it may be some years before I get around to reading some of them. This is possibly because non-fiction books take longer to read than fiction and because I read most of them in paper form, in case I have to refer to maps and family trees, etc. – heavy books cause me pain in my arthritic fingers so a paperback novel or a Kindle book is easier on the joints.
I most read history and memoir but am partial to a good true crime narrative. This year I have read quite a few books about conspiracy theories and some about nature and the environment.
I have read many but not yet reviewed them all, so in the list below, which gives my seven favourites of the year, I will indicate what I have reviewed and I will attempt to get up to date early in the New Year, although I make no promises !
In a field of many fascinating books I recommend these.
Books I have reviewed (click on title)
The Quick and the Dead by Janine Di Giovanni. This is a true and often disturbing account of what it was like in Bosnia during the war with Serbia written by a journalist who was there.
Nathaniel’s Nutmeg by Giles Milton. This is about trade, war and the East India Company made interesting by tales of the people who were there and the issues they faced.
Irena’s Gift by Karen Kirstin. A sad story of the war and the choices that people made or were forced into which affect their families even today.
Underworld by Robert Macfarlane. A fascinating exploration of places that lie below ground but which have been used by people for many different purposes.
Books which I have not yet reviewed – look out for them
Voodoo Histories by David Aaronovitch. This is an exploration of some popular conspiracy stories and an attempt to understand why they are so widely believed and the danger that can be caused by them. I found it illuminating.
The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre. This is an exciting account of a Russian who spied for Britain during the Cold War. It talks about how and why he did it and also about he was rescued from the country when it looked like he would be arrested.
Women and Power by Mary Beard. This slight but interesting book looks at the history of women in power, how they are treated and how they often have to meet a male template to be successful.
Story of a Murder by Hallie Rubenhold. An excellent retelling of the events surrounding the Crippen murder which seeks to tell the story of the women involved, who are often overlooked.
Anne Is Reading 