The following is a list of the books which were read by the East Lothian library book group members in 2004.

Notebooks were sent out with the books, for members to record their comments, a selection of which are posted here. The grading (1* being the least popular, 5* the most) is awarded as a result of the general feedback from group members 

To read the comments, simply click on a title.
Badami, A R Hero’s walk     ****
Beryl Bainbridge According to Queeney  *
Berg, Elizabeth Open house   ***
Bissett, Alan Boyracers ***
Brookmyre, Christopher The sacred art of stealing. ****
Bryson, Bill Notes from a small island****
Buchan, John John Macnab **
Chevalier, Tracy The girl with a pearl earring *****
Dalrymple, William Age of Kali ***
Diamant, Anita The red tent ***
Eidson, Thomas St Agnes Stand *****
Falla, Jonathan Blue poppies ***
Franzen, Jonathan The Corrections *
Gee, Maggie The White family **
Gordimer, Nadine The Pickup **
Graham, Laurie Future homemakers of America****
Greig, Andrew The return of John McNab **
Haslett, Adam You are not a stranger here *
Hemingway, Ernest For whom the bells toll *
Jenkins, Robin Fergus Lamont **
Johnson, Samuel and Boswell, James A journey to the Western Islands of Scotland***
McCarthy, Pete McCarthy’s Bar**
Moggach, Deborah Tulip fever **** (would have been 5 but for Dunbar!)
Munro, Alice The progress of love - Short stories ***
Schlink, Bernhard The Reader  ****
Smith, Alexander McCall The No.1 Ladies detective agency *****
Theissen, Gerd Shadow of the Galilean: the quest of the historical Jesus in narrative form. **
Vickers, Sally Miss Garnet's angel ****
Wells, Rebecca Divine secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood ***

Badami, A R    Hero’s walk    ****
A father at odds with the rest of his family has to come to terms with the death of his daughter, and his new role as his granddaughter’s guardian. Set in India and Canada
Port Seton evening
We liked it. Very sensitive book. The subject matter was interesting and all the characters drawn very well. An in-depth study of the people and the country
North Berwick lunchtime
I agree with Port Seton’s comments as it is very well written and brought modern India to life. Very well described.
East Linton
Overall the majority of the group enjoyed this book. A few of us wished we had read this book second but both books complemented each other
(the group are referring to the book which was partnered with this one – Age of Kali by William Dalrymple)
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Beryl Bainbridge   According to Queeney *
A novel based on the last two decades of Samuel Johnson’s life
East Linton
Very interesting but would benefit from a second reading to pick up some of the finer nuances
Interesting new aspects of Dr Johnson’s life – worth reading
I don’t like any of Beryl Bainbridge’s books and didn’t finish it
Did not enjoy it and did not finish it
Became very bored with Queeney and did not finish the book
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Berg, Elizabeth    Open house  ***
Samantha Morrow and her son Travis have been abandoned by her husband David. She is beset with fear and anxiety over her awesome responsibilities. Sam’s first tentative step to re-arrange her situation is to take in house guests. She welcomes new people she encounters, and despite their issues and demands on her, she eventually becomes able to see the light at the end of the post-matrimonial tunnel.
Port Seton evening
Very light read, well-written, realistic characters. Enjoyable
Ormiston
Mixed feelings about this. Most of us read it quickly. It was a bit predictable and contrived and it didn’t always hang together too well. The quote that “it is somewhere between Anne Tyler and Alice Hoffman” is stretching it a bit!
Knowsley Park
As a group we thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a light read which is not always such a bad thing. Some of us were able to relate to some of the emotions the character of Sam went through. We like her spending sprees in Tiffany’s! Part of the story where Sam loses her baby was very moving. Would recommend this to other women looking for a light holiday read
East Linton
A trivial American novel, in my opinion not worth reading.
I had hoped it would get better, but it didn’t.
Not very interesting.
Did not enjoy this book.
Suitable for an inferior woman’s magazine. Basically boring, of the “so what?” variety.
Should this not be a “Mills & Boon?” Of the “so what?” variety – as stated elsewhere.
Very run of the mill – not inspired book group reading
Eskside
Engaging beginning. It reminded us of situations that friends or family have been through. It was very American but there is always something you can take from a book. However in this one it was very repetitive and the lead character’s behaviour was odd (buying a dinner service etc). Very trivial.
Anonymous
A bit slow to get started – but once the various characters got worked in it was interesting, funny and most enjoyable.
I wasn’t taken by the book at first but stuck with it and thoroughly enjoyed the mix of people and circumstances, also the American dialect.
Didn’t like this book – not really worth reading.
An easy read, shallow, trivial, devoid of real feeling. Not worth discussing except to dismiss it. Don’t believe in the characters.
Very slight – glad it took such a short time to read.
A short, inconsequential read. All the characters are totally forgettable except King – a welcome relief!
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Bissett, Alan   Boyracers ***
Exploits of a group of teenagers based in and around Falkirk.
Ormiston
Only one of us read this – I was pleasantly surprised and actually enjoyed this read. I thought he created a sympathetic character in Alvin and enjoyed the portrayal of the rest of the “gang.” Have lived in Falkirk so could visualise them on their journeys round the town. Did find it amusing too! The rest of us thought it was f*****g awful! (after the style of the author!)
Longniddry
I too enjoyed Boy Racers despite initial reservations. I stopped after a couple of chapters but went back after “Fergus Lamont.” The comparing and contrasting of the two different styles – snobbery and reverse snobbery and how each of the main characters dealt with their issues was fascinating. I thought it was very realistic so all the more shocking and somehow rewarding to know that “the runt” eventually breaks away from the confines of his background and gets to university. Was well worthwhile persevering but not my usual choice of literature!
Port Seton evening
We think that there is a Generation Gap as to who would like this. Did find the language unnecessary. One of us found it quite good.
Knowsley Park
A quick read but a compelling story of “angry young man come good.” Interesting social commentary. As most of us are English we found the trip south of the border interesting as it revealed a reversal of the situation many of our own kids have been put through living up here (to a greater or lesser extent.)
Dunbar
Only one of the group read the book all the way through but as in previous comments found it rewarding at the end. The others (two of us) started but couldn’t be bothered continuing. We had a good discussion over cultural references – music, films, etc. and book comparisons
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Brookmyre, Christopher   The sacred art of stealing. ****
A bank robbery with a difference
Port Seton morning
Only two readers took this book due to the language used. Only one reader finished the book and found it very good and the characters very believable. It was similar in style to the “Thomas Crown Affair.”
Ormiston
Only one of us actually read this. The others found the first chapter to be off-putting but it wasn’t typical of the rest of the book. It was humorous in part. The author would do better if he got on with the story and spent less time pontificating!
North Berwick lunchtime
I nearly gave up because I found the language so offensive – unnecessarily so! But the Glasgow scene is so well used as the background of an amusing bank robbery that I read on and eventually admired the clever weaving of gangsters and police. Can’t say I truly enjoyed it.
North Berwick evening
Very challenging language – but I persevered and thought the plot was very good so I was glad I kept going.
What a marvellous scam – hated the explicit sex but had to read it to the end!
I tried to have an open mind about this book as I’d only managed one chapter of another of his books. This one I managed one paragraph only! I thought “why should I read this if I find it so offensive?”
Musselburgh
We didn’t find the language offensive at all! An amusing slice of Scottish life. Easy read, clever plot. Sympathetic characters. A great read.
Dunbar
I loved this book – enjoyed it so much I have now completed 2 others by him all equally good. Most finished the book and overall, enjoyed by most of the group. Easy read if you discount language. Very believable characters.
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Bryson, Bill   Notes from a small island  ****
An American’s wry and amusing observations about Britain - the country, the culture and the people
Ormiston
Many of us had read and enjoyed this before. We liked reading about places we had visited or knew. Those who had read it previously had been encouraged to read more by the same author.
We found his observations on Britain very accurate, particularly coming from an American. It did cause several of us to laugh aloud.
North Berwick lunchtime
Read some time ago and enjoyed it very much.
Read in 1995 – original in its day
Enjoyed it – very nostalgic for me!
A good and amusing read
A good read in small doses
Enjoyed his observations
Brilliantly funny. Reminded me of coming to this country in 1965.
East Linton
We had all read it before and most of us didn’t want to read it again. Most of us had quite enjoyed it first time but one enjoyed it both times.
North Berwick evening
Third read through, but first time for over 5 years, since when I’ve visited several of the locations myself. Still perceptive, witty and engaging.
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Buchan, John   John Macnab  **
Fishin’ and stalkin’ and hi-jinks in post WW1 Scottish highlands
East Linton
Really for Highland lovers – the manoeuvres are rather complicated. Otherwise very old fashioned by today’s standards.
A bit dated but enjoyable. A bit “boys own adventures.”
Three main characters rather similar and the book is, on the whole, devoid of insights into their thoughts and feelings. But, as an adventure story it works, the reader gets caught up in the action.
I read this first and found it disappointing. Rather tame adventure of the 1920’s and then I read “The return of John Macnab” (by Andrew Greig) which I found more readable and exciting.
I preferred this one – found the map too small in scale. I liked the characters, especially Janet. A good, strong, very intriguing character. Lovely scenic descriptions.
Enjoyed the plot and characters – traditional reading
John Macnab is a particular favourite of mine and I quite enjoyed the “John Macnab” up to date, quite a good story but characters were a bit confused.
Enjoyed them both
Found both books “quite” enjoyable
North Berwick evening
Some of the group found this a good read once they were into the story but superficial characters and very dated. Some had read it before and did not consider it worth re-reading. Very little to discuss
Ormiston
Enjoyed by the majority – easy to read. Descriptions good. A well-written adventure story. Good to read it again. Could smell the wet tweeds!
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Chevalier, Tracy   The girl with a pearl earring  *****
The mysterious portrait of the anonymous Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer is the inspiration for this second novel
Port Seton evening
We all liked it very much and agreed it had been very well researched and very well written. Would recommend it to friends.
Ormiston
Enjoyed by all. An easy read yet managed to convey a lot of information about the period. Perhaps the library should organise a group tour to see the paintings!
Eskside
Enjoyed by all. Very moving. Felt as if you were a part of the story. The reader was given a wealth of information about the period. Looking forward to seeing the film
Knowsley Park
A beautiful novel of a young girl’s innocent, romantic notions. The historical aspects of Dutch life in the 17th century was fascinating. The novel centred on a portrait had me wondering if the facts were true!
Not the right book group

We all enjoyed the book – simply descriptive, atmospheric, disturbing in places. Very visual – like the paintings at the heart of the story.
East Linton
Pleasing story – interesting facts about mixing paint.
Good insight into life in Delft – if true? Ending a little contrived.
A bit lightweight, however interesting historical detail.
Enjoyable story – found the “superstition” about showing her hair interesting.
Interesting picture of 17th century Holland including “life below the stairs,” the makers of the famous Dutch tiles etc. Intriguing story to explain Vermeer’s painting of the girl although occasionally a few clichés e.g. the maid having a “crush” on Vermeer, one of his children being really nasty to Griet.
Fascinating insight into the times and interesting detail of how Vermeer worked.
Well research re. Vermeer’s methods and the background seemed authentic. I don’t know whether the family details were correct – they see too detailed and I suspect they were made up to make the story more interesting.
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Dalrymple, William   Age of Kali  ***
Observations on India from the acclaimed travel writer
East Linton
Would have wished this to be fiction not fact as reality in India as seen by William Dalrymple seems horrendous.
Started this book a long time ago and put it down as I was depressed by the situation. This time I did finish it and felt it was worth reading.
The thought of so little progress in 50 years independence amazed me – a most revealing and interesting account.
Really a re-hash of Dalrymple’s pieces written for British journals over 10-12 years. A gloomy picture overall.
Very interesting – I did not realise that India was still so corrupt and not in the 20th century.
Very closely observed but unlikely to draw tourists to India
A series of essays that build up an interesting and eye-opening picture of India during the last decade of last century – I was quite shocked at the extent of suffering, brutality and poverty that exists in what is obviously a fascinating country.
Ormiston
Only one of us actually read this book. She thought it improved as the book went on. It was depressing to find out how things had changed since independence and difficult to see how and when things will improve
Port Seton evening
Did not appeal to everybody although some of us thought it was wonderful. Very well written and informative. Non-judgemental.
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Diamant, Anita  The red tent ***
A beautifully written, fascinating tale of the day-to-day life of women, family and love. It just happens to be set in Biblical times
Ormiston
Thoroughly enjoyable – a fascinating account of midwifery and the way women were treated.
I enjoyed this novel very much, liked the style of writing and thought the whole book fascinating. It certainly sent me back to reading Genesis just to check some of the family ramifications.
East Linton
Irritating and repetitive, too feminist and pedestrian in style.
Half hated it, half were neutral.
Longniddry
Very enjoyable story. Makes the characters in the Bible come alive. Demonstrates the closeness of females in a male dominated world. A colourful saga, rich in human emotions. A fascinating tale.
Sheds light on the life of women in that time. A warm, touching story
A wonderful celebration of the unspoken history of women
Interesting to know how women in Biblical times lived and worked together, helped each other, fought and supported each other. Bit much detail to wade through until Dinah’s family circle is complete but her story, set in biblical context, is  fascinating
Haddington
This was too graphic for me in lots of ways – it’s just not the kind of subject matter I like – definitely a ‘woman’s book’ in all the worst ways. The biblical facts were blurred and for all her research I didn’t see many references
An easier read than it would seem from the cover. I was surprised to have enjoyed it so much
Thought this was a most unsatisfactory book – unreal, 2 dimensional characters and no development. It was one woman’s idea of how women lived in Biblical times and I do not know how well researched it really is
Eskside
I found this very enjoyable and fascinating. I thought the background was well researched.
Musselburgh
The Bible according to ‘Cosmopolitan.’ An attempt to redress the balance fo an otherwise male dominated history. We (all women) liked the idea of the red tent – resting for a few days a month
Knowsley Park
Interesting insight into the life of women in that time. An easy read – really well researched. Definitely a woman’s book. A most enjoyable, interesting and feminine story
Gullane
Epic novel, gripping.
Enjoyed this despite all the women’s cycle stuff.
Rattling good read – biblical midwifery
Not the right book group
We all really enjoyed this. We took different things from it depending on our perspectives. Good challenge to Christian and Jewish teaching of the Old Testament.
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Eidson, Thomas   St Agnes Stand  *****
Contains elements of the classic western – a standoff between the Apache Indians and the ambushed white folk in the wagons. What is unusual is that the occupants of the wagons are nuns and orphaned children, who have been praying to God for a saviour to rescue them.
East Linton
Wonderful story. I shall buy copies to give as presents
Great story – read it twice!
Couldn’t put it down
Really enjoyed this “western.” Well written and interesting
Port Seton evening
Easy read. Totally unbelievable hero had more lives than a cat. Totally unrealistic characters.
Longniddry
Unusual tale that keeps the reader wondering what on earth will happen next. Written in a deceptively simple style it is both interesting and thought provoking.
Musselburgh
Incredible what people endured in those days. Again heroism and stoicism. Beautifully written
Knowsley Park
A compelling story though the brutality of the Apaches made for disturbing reading. Interesting characters of Nat Swanson, Sister Agnes and the boy. Some of the physical and human endurance and the miraculous events were a little unbelievable. As a group we thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would try other novels by this author.
Dunbar
Generally enjoyed as a light-ish read: descriptive, fluid, fable-like with good mythical elements. Some thought it too unbelievable and uninteresting but most were gripped and couldn’t wait to find out what happens next.
Really enjoyed this book although have never read a “western” before. Loved the writing and the plot
Really enjoyed the book but wondered if the central message is that Christianity is a “stronger religion” than that of the Indians – the “black robe” beats everyone!”
Gullane
Really enjoyed this one, which took me by surprise. Although it was slow, it kept me interested. I wanted the nuns to win!
Riveting! I enjoyed this book lots – no meals cooked that day!
Highly readable, thoroughly enjoyed it. Not a book I would normally have chosen to read.
I really enjoyed this, contrary to my expectations. Found the grisly bits a bit hard to read though.
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Falla, Jonathan   Blue poppies ***
A young Scot working in Tibet forms a relationship with a young, crippled widow; both are lonely and isolated. A vivid picture of Tibetan life in the late 1940’s and early 50’s.
North Berwick evening
Puppet characters, unbelievable incidents, no atmosphere, no feeling of place. Do not understand why it was published, let alone being pushed by the Scottish Book Trust.
Why did the Scot abandon the poor lass without a backward glance? Why was he so gormless? Why was this book published?
Not worth writing about
Ormiston
Slow start, good descriptions, enjoyable (mostly) read. The memory of it stays, unlike some, and I thought it well written.
Found it an enjoyable read and liked the descriptions of Tibet. I was a bit dubious about reading this but found it surprisingly easy to get into. It did however fall away at the end.
North Berwick lunchtime
Really enjoyed this book. A well-written story and a sad ending but really felt for the characters.
Thoroughly enjoyable. Wonderful description of Tibet (people and century) and a story that totally engages.
This is a very good book. It held my attention and I felt I was there! The blue poppy is my favourite flower, which I used to grow in my garden and so now know where they grow profusely – not like my struggling little patch!
Longniddry
All 9 members of the group present at the meeting enjoyed this book. We all felt he had given an interesting account of the Tibetan life and the Chinese take-over. The country was well described.
Not a book I would have chosen for myself, I did feel the writing style was similar to “St Agnes Stand.” In places I found it slow and was disappointed in the ending. Would not tempt me to read another from this author, however I did enjoy the geographical content.
A fascinating book: billed as an ‘epic love story’ but maybe even more, an enthralling picture of Tibet at the time the Chinese were invading in the 50’s, and the life of Tibetan villagers at that time.
Knowsley Park
General opinion was book was good – all liked insight into Tibetan life and also Chinese invasion. Love story – touching and different to usual.
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Franzen, Jonathan   The Corrections *
Enid Lambert attempts to gather her three grown children back home for Christmas. As the novel unfolds their lives are examined - Enid’s husband Alfred, sinking into dementia; her sons, banker Gary and writer Chip (now in Lithuania) and daughter Denise, a chef, busily re-evaluating her sexual identity. A sprawling American family saga.
North Berwick evening
A thoroughly unsympathetic family. I did not enjoy it.
Found this very hard to get into therefore didn’t pursue it beyond page 90.
A cruel book – the writer revelled in the degradation and humiliation of the old man- all the characters thoroughly unlikeable. Read a third of the book and gave up because the characters were so unpleasant.
Port Seton evening
Two of us read it all the way through. Two fell at the first fence. Nobody really enjoyed it and all of us thought it was a hard read. Too americanised and very unfeeling.
Eskside
Impenetrable!!!!! (see p.4, first sentence!)

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Gee, Maggie   The White family **
Uses the study of an ordinary British family as a backdrop to examine values, racial hatred, violence and homophobia in society today
North Berwick evening
A worthy book, but with a flavour of someone who decided to write about social problems – “I’ll do racism and family violence and homophobia” – and contrived to attach them all, however improbably to the obviously named White family. Readable but uninspired.
I enjoyed this book – it opened up more than just inherent racism – so many other prejudices came to the surface. What an awful sad person Alf was – and so unaware of his failings! Worth reading.
Although this book seemed slightly contrived (to bring in racism, homophobia and the emptiness of fame and fortune) I still enjoyed it and especially like Shirley and Winston.
Knowsley Park
Most of the group chose this book to read. Generally people enjoyed the read but found the issues presented disturbing and unsettling. We did feel that at times the plot was a bit contrived and predictable. The way the book was organised into short chapters – each one focussing on one of the characters was a different and interesting way of writing. We did feel that you got to “know” the characters.
Anonymous
A very moving and poignant novel. A family destroyed by a bigoted father who loves his family but whose idea of discipline and behaviour is so wrong and out of date.
Effect of multi-ethnic immigration on British suburban life. It exposes the White family to the love, hatred and fear of non-white people. A disturbing book.
Dunbar
Bleak, dark book, but couldn’t put it down.
Did not continue beyond the first few chapters. Felt it was a theme better written by others.
Did not enjoy this very much. Rather depressing.
Did not enjoy this book, found it very badly written, no depth and quite pretentious.
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Gordimer, Nadine   The Pickup **
The penetrating story of a love affair that begins as a casual encounter between a rich South African and a young Arab illegal alien
North Berwick evening
She can’t write a bad book but this is not one of her best. She does, however, avoid clichés, i.e. her South African character stands by her choice and doesn’t bolt back to South Africa or follow her lover to the USA.
A jerky, clumsy style but a good story with believable characters and situations. A good read.
I liked both Julie and Abdu and wanted to know how the book ended, but wished they’d understood each other better.
I enjoyed the book after a very slow start – having worked in an Arab country I understood the feeling on both sides.
Ormiston
I finished this one but didn’t really enjoy it. Difficult to get to know the characters – felt they had no real depth. Strange ending.
North Berwick lunchtime
I didn’t manage to finish this (because of time) but felt the edgy, cool/distant style suited the characters well.
Longniddry
We all enjoyed it – after getting used to the style of writing! A good insight into the problems of displaced people trying to move on. Interesting way in which Julie accepted the desert and the culture.
Port Seton evening
Didn’t care for the style of writing. Did not find it had much of a story. Strange book.
Knowsley Park
All agreed it was a difficult book to get into and not an easy style to read but those of us who finished it found it interesting and different. Would agree that it isn’t one of her best books.
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Graham, Laurie   Future homemakers of America ****
The story of six women who meet on a US air force base in Norfolk in the 1950’s, and the lifelong bond they share.
Haddington
Felt like I’d made 6 best friends. Really didn’t want to leave them at the end of the book.
North Berwick
A great fun book. The continuing relationships between the characters was really interesting and I enjoyed the book immensely.
Longniddry
Wonderful characterisations and development/aging of these people. Enjoyed the dynamics of their relationships over the years.
Okay. Found it slightly frustrating that each chapter was quite short and each episode didn’t really get a chance to develop. By the end I felt that I did know the characters quite well.
Puzzled by the fact that there were American wives here as my experience was that the American bases had no wives and they called on British WAAFS and ATS to supply the female interest in dances. I found the book amusing but not memorable.
Eskside
The group appreciated this novel with a few reservations – perhaps a bit predictable as to John Pharoah’s involvement in the child. Ending a bit trite with all too tidily resolved. On the positive side, we enjoyed the high level of character development.
Ormiston
Those of us that read it enjoyed it. An easy read which covered a lot of ground but no lasting impression
Knowsley Park
All but one of us loved this book. One of our group grew up on Airforce bases and could really relate to the characters. Also, one of our group is from the Norfolk area so likewise was able to identify with the area. The characters were very likeable and it was interesting to se them develop over the years. This book is a great girlie read – one that we could not put down and did not want to finish!
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Greig, Andrew   The return of John McNab **
The same flavour of the original novel by John Buchan, but taking place in modern day Scotland. Wonderful characters and descriptions of the hills.
East Linton
I am glad I read Buchan’s “John McNab” first, otherwise I would not have understood this at all!
I found this book fascinating – the characters, the dialogue, the humour – much more interesting than the Buchan.
Sparkling banter, imaginative characters. I felt he truly enjoyed writing this – almost as much as I enjoyed the reading.
An interesting read. This is John Buchan’s book fleshed out with interesting, funny, real people while retaining the sense of fast moving adventures.
I enjoyed the modern John McNab much more than the Buchan 1920’s story. Entertaining characters and scenery descriptions every bit as good as Buchan’s.
Readable but not as interesting as the original.
I thought the three main (men) characters were not well defined. I preferred the original, possibly because I read it many years ago when I was young!
Enjoyed the “racier” style of writing and up to date version
North Berwick evening
Disjointed, improbable characters but quite a good adventure story. Hardly worth discussing.
Ormiston
Enjoyed by majority – same story but padded out with modern concerns. Bit doubtful about the ending. Very descriptive. He made the points about landowners and access well and in an enjoyable fashion.
Dunbar
Mixed views – either staid and contrived with undeveloped characters or sparkling language with clever poetic structures to the plot. The disjointed style was appealing and reminiscent of memory or not very well done!
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Haslett, Adam   You are not a stranger here *
Nine short stories set in Los Angeles, the Midwest, New England and England, add dealing with raw, powerful human emotions
Longniddry
Found the first story disturbing and this put me off the others but I did go back and I liked “Devotion.” The second story was also disturbing. I am not really fond of short stories in book form.
These are all stories at the “cutting edge” and some are very disturbing. He seems to be into mental illness, which, on the whole, does not make pleasant reading.
Ormiston
I read three quarters of the book. Cannot say I really enjoyed it very much but I thought it was well written. A bit too depressing to be enjoyable and short stories are not my favourite form of writing.
Others found it too disturbing to try more than a couple of the stories. Please can we have more upbeat stories next year!
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Hemingway, Ernest   For whom the bells toll **
An American, who in “normal life” teaches Spanish, finds himself planning to blow up a key bridge for the republicans during the Spanish Civil War.
North Berwick lunchtime
Wonderful
Very exciting
Not interested in the subject
Couldn’t get into it – a real struggle
East Linton
Never got into it – partly because I disliked “Thee & Thou”
Bored half way through so did not finish it
Dated style – made me think of school readers!
Atmospheric, but it did drag!
Port Seton evening
Well enough written for its day. Found it hard going, seemed to drag out. Characters quite believable, but would probably have to be re-read to enjoy
Longniddry
Four days of a man’s thoughts and actions give us a wide-ranging view of what life was like in Spain during the Civil War
Musselburgh
Found it very dry and uncomfortable. Totally agree about the old style of writing being difficult to follow.
· Extremely moving account
· Insight into humanity
· Beautifully written
· Heroic and tragic
A challenging read – the style is quite complicated, a mix of Spanish words, internal monologues and witty dialogues. A beautiful but sad book
Knowsley Park Book Group
Only one member of the group persevered beyond chapter 2! They found it to be beautifully written and very moving. An interesting insight into the Spanish Civil War
Dunbar
Again unable to finish this book despite several attempts. Found the style far too involved and boring.
Determined to finish it this time – but did not feel engaged nor did it involve me in the story
Hard going but very worthwhile. It certainly beats “Homage to Catalonia” as an exciting read
Gullane
Brilliant, masterly, I was totally convinced by every character, could not stop reading and had to make myself slow down! A really inspiring and brave “hero” in Robert Jordan.

I hated it! Especially the Maria character. It seemed so dated and it made me angry the way in which Robert treated her. I am afraid I skipped the last 300 pages
Didn’t enjoy this, in fact, didn’t even finish it. Rare for me. Didn’t engage with the character at all
Oh dear! Only managed to read a few chapters and won’t be reading any more

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Jenkins, Robin   Fergus Lamont **
From his origins as an illegitimate child in the slums of Glasgow, Fergus Lamont sets out to reclaim his inheritance and to remake his identity as soldier, poet and would-be aristocrat. Spanning the turn of the century to World War II
Port Seton evening
For most of the group, it was a hard read. Only two of us liked it. One felt the style (1979) rather off-putting; it was “heavy going.” All agreed that Lamont was a snob and a con man. Agreed that it’s social history. The introduction was very helpful. This book provided material for a very lively, 30-minute discussion!
Ormiston
We all enjoyed this and found it an easy read. It was evocative, thought provoking and sparked off memories and an interesting discussion. His use of language was good and much more effective than in “Boy racers” (Alan Bisset). We agreed we would be willing to read another book by him
Longniddry
I thought the author’s exploration of social and personal issues through an unlikeable character absorbing. Found the beginning “hard” but once I got the hang of what was going on couldn’t put it down. So many lives ruined for a hollow dream.
Haddington
In this novel Robin Jenkins ranges over time, place and social class within Scotland. Whilst making profound comment he manages to keep the central character (Fergus) believable and the central narrative readable and very amusing
Knowsley Park
We all enjoyed this story. It proves you don’t have to empathise or like the central character to enjoy the novel. The language was rich and evocative if a little pompous at times. One favourite quote was
“The Scots are not a demonstrative or ostentatiously philoprogenitive race”
Great stuff!
Dunbar
Only three people here on a beautiful, hot, sunny evening and only one had completed Fergus Lamont. One other read first two chapters and then gave up. Compared with “Boy racers” it seemed a much harder read and rather dated
After a couple of chapters I didn’t like him enough to read on
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Johnson, Samuel and Boswell, James    A journey to the Western Islands of Scotland***
Separate accounts, published together, of their tour of the Highlands and the Western Islands of Scotland in 1773
East Linton
An interesting re-read. The style of prose has to be re-acquired to be appreciated – but worthwhile. The two reports of the journey, side-by-side, are useful, especially when (as I did) they could be compared with personal journeys. A book to have permanently on the bookshelf.
Found the comments on contemporary life so interesting
Haddington
Found the information on life in the Hebrides in the 18th century very interesting. Also Boswell’s comments on other contemporary figures. Needed a lot of concentration and re-reading would be worthwhile. I am now interested in reading Boswell’s life of Johnson
North Berwick evening
Found the prose style of Johnson hard work but worth it. Would have preferred the footnotes at the bottom of the page and not at the back. Couldn’t get into the Boswell at all.
I enjoyed Boswell’s account enormously – Johnson too ponderous. It was Boswell’s self-revelations that were so entertaining
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McCarthy, Pete    McCarthy’s Bar**
An amusing account of the author’s travels through rural Ireland, discovering his roots, and many bars!
Ormiston
We found it amusing and even made us laugh out loud. Some found it rather unbelievable that so many things could happen in one trip!
North Berwick lunchtime
Good fun book! Found his storytelling very readable and amusing.
Funniest book I have read for ages. As well as funny he is a very descriptive writer and made me want to visit Ireland. The climbing of St Michael’s purgatory and description of the various bare feet made me cry with laughter!
East Linton
Became a bit boring after a while
Not as good as Bill Bryson nor as funny as the author would have us believe
Enjoyed getting to know Ireland but it could have moved more quickly
Having never visited Ireland would like to do so after reading this, but not the pubs!
North Berwick evening
Most of us gave up part way through, one found it funny. One found it reminded her of the aspects of Ireland she no longer likes!
Eskside
OK and occasionally made me snigger, but generally, he seems to think that he’s funnier than he actually is
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Moggach, Deborah   Tulip fever **** (would have been 5 but for Dunbar!)
Set in 1630’s Amsterdam, a fascinating story of intrigue, love, painting and bulbs.
Knowsley Park
Quite a “racy” novel, despite the historical setting! Interesting characters and a good few twists in the plot. Highly enjoyable.
Not the right book group

We all enjoyed the book – beautifully descriptive, atmospheric, disturbing in places. Very visual – like the paintings at the heart of the story.
Port Seton evening
We all agreed that this was an easy, enjoyable read. Fascinating – the value people put on tulip bulbs. We did find the characters slightly artificial – Maria reminded us of a pantomime character.
East Linton
Liked the build up of tension in the story
Knowsley Park
We all enjoyed this and found it easy to read. We liked the chapters assigned to a character and the captions at the start of each one. Interesting historical and artistic theme. A fun plot with lots of twists – would make a great film or play
Dunbar
Sadly, we did not rate this book very highly. We found it clichéd and predictable and very thin as an adventure. The quotations at the start of each chapter seemed irrelevant and superfluous as were the paintings illustrated. Why did these not illustrate the paintings of the story? None of us read the book all the way through and gave up or skimmed the plot. The tulip fever episode sounded a fascinating episode but was poorly explored or exploited in the writing
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Schlink, Bernhard  The Reader  ****
Haddington
A beautiful book, particularly on a metaphoric level and particularly at this point in time with the war in Iraq.
I found the father's speech with his onIncredibly moving in explaining rights are not just about happiness but also about dignity and freedom.
Interesting to hear the viewpoints of the "other side of the fence." Also appreciated the spare style of writing.
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Smith, Alexander McCall  The No.1 Ladies detective agency *****
North Berwick lunchtime
A wholly delightful read. Precious Ramatswa is a beguiling and refreshing character.
The whole book has a simplicity that is just right.
Refreshing, quirky and extremely well written.
Precious is unforgettble.
Ormiston
Pleasant to read about someone amply proportioned who was well fancied!
Port Seton evening
So easily descriptive, you could se her white van and dusty roads.
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Theissen, Gerd  Shadow of the Galilean: the quest of the historical Jesus in narrative form. **
Unknown groups
Very interesting and lucid explanations of biblical stories. Made sense of many of the parables which were somewhat mythical.
Fantastic book even though I think I would have to read it at least 3 more time to even begin to understand all the issues it raises which apply to doday,
just as much as during the life of Christ - poverty, wealth, power, politics, religion.
Analogy with present day quite disturbing - nothing changes!
An excellent read - I wouldn't have picked it without the group!
Intersting background but not much action.
Interesting in that it generated a desire to research biblical readings.
I found it too difficult to deal with the book and finally gave it up.
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Vickers, Sally  Miss Garnet's angel ****
Ormiston
Conveyed a good impression of Venice.
Miss Garnet travelled a long way in a short time but it was a believable transformation.
Haddington
I really enjoyed this book as it showed that you can actually teach an old dog new tricks!
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Munro, Alice The progress of love - Short stories  ***
Ormiston
She wrote very well but ultimately we didn't find the short story form as satisfying. Too many unanswered questions!
Longniddry
An interesting collection of short stories about people and the relationships they have with each other - or sometimes
about the relationships they think they have with each other!
I particularly liked 'The progress of love,' 'Miles city Montana,' 'Lichen.'
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Wells, Rebecca   Divine secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood ***
Brilliantly portrayed relationship between a mother and daughter, revealed in flashback as Sidda reads her mother’s secret journal, which has been sent to her by the latter’s friends – the Ya Ya Sisterhood
Ormiston
Very American in style and content. Not particularly thought provoking but an enjoyable and easy read.
There were parts we found interesting like the ‘Gone with the Wind’ episode and the impact of religion on Vivi’s life. Men are very much secondary characters with the women laying a central role. Easy to visualise with skilful descriptions
Haddington
1/6th loved it
3/6th hated it
2/6th tolerated it
I enjoyed this book so much, it was happy, sad and made me both laugh and cry. I’m glad I read it
I loved this book – very moving in places, but also made me laugh
I liked the exploration of the relationships between the women of the same and different generations. Moving in parts, e.g. when Vivi is sent away – religion over reason
Longniddry
An entertaining novel about female friendships. Although moving and interesting it was sometimes a little too sentimental and cloying, almost manufactured at times, and not quite real. But enjoyable because it provided pure escapism
I didn’t think I was going to like this, but once I got into it, I thought it was very good. An interesting insight into the relationship of the different generations.
Another celebration of womanhood in a different but comparable style to the Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
Fascinating study of female friendship and mother/child relationship. Dramatic, strong and enthralling
Port Seton morning
The scrapbook revealed to Sidda the reasons for her mother’s irrational and unpredictable behaviour and so brought clarity and definition to her own life. The book matured gradually throughout
Eskside
An easy but superficial read. Some loved it, others just couldn’t get into it. We couldn’t decide if it was the book or the time of year we were reading it (Christmas)
Musselburgh
Easy read, shallow, characters not particularly sympathetic
Interesting theme of link between the moon and womanhood – also apparent in the ‘Red Tent.’
Knowsley Park
I had a sneaking admiration for the outrageousness of the ‘Ya Ya’s’ though I might not have liked them in ‘real life.’ Two of us who have lived in the USA found the characters very believable
Gullane
I thought this was a brilliant book clearly constructed and it made me cry a lot!
Loved this book, even having previously seen the film. Intend to read the prequel soon!
Wonderful – loved this book and as foreign and exotic as the Red Tent

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