These are the unsung heroes who are constantly on the look out for new and exciting books
and who give so generously of their time ,energy and expertise.
I am delighted to welcome
Kate
from the excellent blog
What makes you want to blog about books?
It sounds trite to say 'because I really love books', but that's the most simple answer I can give. I'd reviewed books on forums such as Read It Swap It for years before starting Books with Bunny, but it reached the point where I wanted my own place where I could share my fascination with stories. It's not always easy finding time to blog around other life commitments, but it is worthwhile when people say they've read something because you recommended it, or when an author says you've made their day.
What type of book makes you happy?
I love a good love story. I'm definitely a romantic at heart, so anything that has a happy ending will leave me with a smile on my face.
Which book have you recommended the most?
This is a tough question! I recommend all books I've enjoyed, although some to specific people who read in that genre. The one that I pass on to any book lover is 84 Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff. It's a real life story of friendship over the miles and the lovely people you can meet through a shared passion of books.
Which is the best book you received as a gift?
I have a beautiful edition of Jane Eyre that my Mum bought me. Since I first read it it's been one of my favourite books, and that particular edition is stunning.
Which book has sent a shiver down your spine?
I find all psychological thrillers set me on edge, but most recently I read How I Lost You by Jenny Blackhurst. It's wonderfully chilling, but there was no way I was putting that book down and going to sleep until I'd finished reading it- I was too scared of having nightmares!
How many books do you have, as yet unread, on your book shelves?
I don't like to say! It's over 200, I know that much. Plus around 400 on kindle.
Tell me about a book you've read more than three times?
When I was a teenager, my favourite book was Forever by Judy Blume. Michael and Katherine, the teenage couple in the book, are so relatable, and of course there are the famous sex scenes which were so controversial. However, it's a book about more than just sex-it's about growing up, society, friendships, heartbreak, family... I can't tell you how many times I've read it, but it must be over 20. I plan to reread it again this summer, for the first time in years, as Judy releases her adult fiction novel In The Unlikely Event.
What’s your idea of book heaven or book hell?
Book heaven for me is a bookshop. Any bookshop really. I love browsing, walking through the aisles and stroking the covers, picking them up and reading the blurbs. I especially love second hand bookshops and in particular finding books with inscriptions. I always want to know the story behind them-it's like a teasing story in itself. Were they given by parents, or lovers, or friends? Were they school set texts? There is something so personal about an inscribed book, and I wish I still had some of the books I wrote my name in when I was younger (especially my copy of the aforementioned 'Forever'- if anyone has one that says 'Kate 4 Howard' in it, it's mine and I'd love it back!)
Where is your favourite reading place?
I prefer reading inside to outside, and love snuggling on the settee with a blanket and a hot chocolate and totally losing myself in a book.
What has been your favourite book of the year...so far ?
I've read quite a diverse selection of books this year, but my favourite has probably been The Reckoning by Edith Wharton. It is one of the Little Black Penguin books, and I picked it up because I'd loved Ethan Frome, a novella by the same author. The reckoning is actually two short stories, both very different looks at life. Both stories have stayed with me and played on my mind, which is always a sign of a good book.
Huge thanks to Kate for giving so generously of her time
Jaffa and I love visiting your blog
Long may it continue.
~***~
Good to meet you through Jo's blog, Kate. I enjoyed Ethan Frome, too, but I've never read The Reckoning. I'll look out for it and check out your blog. Thanks for the recommendation!
ReplyDeleteHi Helena ~ Thanks so much for your lovely comments. Do check out Kate's blog - it's fab !!
Delete