Several notable readers have taken to social media to share their latest literary discoveries and favorite reads from the past month. Noted author Alan Hollinghurst has spent the last month re-reading poets John Fuller and Seamus Heaney, among others. His admiration for Fuller's collection 'Marston Meadows' is evident, particularly as it explores themes of aging with "amazing wit, agility, and deep feeling."
Meanwhile, Guardian reader Kelly has been thoroughly enthralled by Claire Keegan's novel "Small Things Like These". The story, set at Christmas time in Dublin during the 1980s, tells the tale of a young girl who seeks help from Bill Furlong, a character whose quiet determination and empathy leave readers questioning their own ethics. Keegan's prose has captivated Kelly, with her delicate yet powerful writing style leaving an indelible mark.
Acclaimed author Samantha Harvey has recently finished reading Neel Mukherjee's novel "Choice". The story weaves together three narratives that blur the lines between reality and moral uncertainty. Harvey found the writing to be both elegant and shattering, capturing a reader's attention and refusing to let go.
Harvey has also been working through Helen Garner's debut collection, "The Spare Room", which promises to reveal her unique writing style. Garner's ability to conjure vivid images is on full display in this work, as described by one reviewer who finds herself enthralled by the author's talent.
Finally, Guardian reader Stuart has made an interesting discovery in Jacek Dukaj's novel "Ice". The nearly 1,200-page-long story follows Benedykt Gieroslawski on a mission to uncover his father's alleged connections with an alien invasion force. With its incredible world-building and deep character development, this novel promises to be an immersive experience for those willing to commit the time.
Their diverse reading experiences showcase the rich literary landscape that readers can explore during the holiday season.
Meanwhile, Guardian reader Kelly has been thoroughly enthralled by Claire Keegan's novel "Small Things Like These". The story, set at Christmas time in Dublin during the 1980s, tells the tale of a young girl who seeks help from Bill Furlong, a character whose quiet determination and empathy leave readers questioning their own ethics. Keegan's prose has captivated Kelly, with her delicate yet powerful writing style leaving an indelible mark.
Acclaimed author Samantha Harvey has recently finished reading Neel Mukherjee's novel "Choice". The story weaves together three narratives that blur the lines between reality and moral uncertainty. Harvey found the writing to be both elegant and shattering, capturing a reader's attention and refusing to let go.
Harvey has also been working through Helen Garner's debut collection, "The Spare Room", which promises to reveal her unique writing style. Garner's ability to conjure vivid images is on full display in this work, as described by one reviewer who finds herself enthralled by the author's talent.
Finally, Guardian reader Stuart has made an interesting discovery in Jacek Dukaj's novel "Ice". The nearly 1,200-page-long story follows Benedykt Gieroslawski on a mission to uncover his father's alleged connections with an alien invasion force. With its incredible world-building and deep character development, this novel promises to be an immersive experience for those willing to commit the time.
Their diverse reading experiences showcase the rich literary landscape that readers can explore during the holiday season.
The data on what people are actually reading is so eye-opening. Did you know that 75% of book clubs in the UK have read a work by Claire Keegan this year? 
And it's no wonder, her writing style has been praised for its emotional depth and complexity.
I mean, 1k page book about aliens? Sounds like a real blast...for your social life, anyway 
. But seriously, it's awesome that Stuart found something that kept him hooked. I'm more of a "get to the plot" kinda guy, but hey, if you're gonna spend 1000 pages on something, you might as well have fun with it 
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i mean, i'm glad samantha harvey is getting excited about books, but this sounds like a marathon session in the library... or a never-ending fantasy novel 
maybe someone can tell me what's so special about it?
think about all the sick new books comin out every month lol, like what's the point of revisitin some dusty ol' poet or novel from 20 yrs ago? 
just call em by their name, like samantha harvey wrote that book not "the acclaimed author samantha harvey" lol 
That's like, a whole summer of reading in one book! I mean, I'm all for getting lost in a good story, but that's a huge commitment. Has anyone actually read this entire thing or is it just a wild exaggeration from the author? 
and I'm still reeling from it. Her writing is like a slow burn, it starts off gentle but builds up to this emotional intensity that leaves you breathless 
. The way she explores the complexities of human relationships during that dark time in Dublin's history is really thought-provoking. I love how Keegan's prose is both delicate and powerful - it's like she's speaking directly to your heart 
. Have any of you guys read this one? What did you think? 
just read about these amazing reads from the past month 
especially alan hollinghurst's admiration for john fuller's 'marston meadows' 
it's like his words are speaking straight to my soul 
meanwhile, claire keegan's 'small things like these' is giving me all the feels 
yeah, i'm in 
.
. I've been really enjoying books like "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides – have you guys read it? It's a psychological thriller that's hard to put down! The way the author weaves together mystery and suspense is just masterful. I also appreciate how some authors are pushing boundaries with their writing styles, like Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah who writes about contemporary issues in a unique, thought-provoking way 
and I'm loving Claire Keegan's writing style, so delicate yet powerful 
Stuart just found the perfect sci-fi novel, 1,200 pages?! 
anyway, can't wait for more holiday reads! 