A clever and insightful read, 31 Aug 2008
Although this is the first Patrick Gale book I've ever read it certainly won't be my last. The story focuses on the inter-woven lives and experiences of a family held together by a parents' bi-polar disorder. Each of the characters are very individual, however the mental illness that they live with runs through them all and becomes more evident the further you read on. Gale manages to write about the emotive topic of mental illness without mushy sentimentality or judgements being evident. Excellant!!!

Good book, 01 Aug 2008
Notes From An Exhibition synopsis from Amazon:

Renowned Canadian artist Rachel Kelly -- now of Penzance -- has buried her past and married a gentle and loving Cornish man. Her life has been a sacrifice to both her extraordinary art and her debilitating manic depression. When troubled artist Rachel Kelly dies painting obsessively in her attic studio in Penzance, her saintly husband and adult children have more than the usual mess to clear up. She leaves behind an extraordinary and acclaimed body of work -- but she also leaves a legacy of secrets and emotional damage it will take months to unravel. A wondrous, monstrous creature, she exerts a power that outlives her. To her children she is both curse and blessing, though they all in one way or another reap her whirlwind, inheriting her waywardness, her power of loving -- and her demons. Only their father's Quaker gifts of stillness and resilience give them any chance of withstanding her destructive influence and the suspicion that they came a poor second to the creation of her art.The reader becomes a detective, piecing together the clues of a life -- as artist, lover, mother, wife and patient -- which takes them from contemporary Penzance to 1960s Toronto to St Ives in the 1970s. What emerges is a story of enduring love, and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius. Patrick Gale's latest novel shines with intelligence, humour and tenderness.


What a lovely book. Only 374 pages, and well worth the read.

Throughout the book, Gale deals with the issues of the illness of bipolar, death, faith and family. His description of the art work was beautiful and I could easily picture the work. He began each chapter with a descriptive plaque like you would find beside an artefact in a museum, which helped connect you to Rachel Kelly.

I loved the character of Antony, how he took in Rachel and looked after her, and gave her a family. He seemed the strong, silent type and I just adored him.

As someone who is intimate with depression I found Gale wrote extremely sensitively and well. The story was not in chronological order however and did jump between characters and times. I liked the story that unfolded however and the twists and turns that came with it.

However, I have found myself wanting more. I would have liked more character depth and to learn consequences of actions that we read about.

Overall, this was a good book, I recommend it!

8/10

disappointing, 22 Jul 2008
Very disappointed with this book which was recommended by Uncle Richard and Auntie Judy. I rushed out to buy it to take on holiday and started reading it, enthusiastically reading each page with vigour. Admittedly, Patrick Gayle's use of language describes Rachel, her family and relationships beautifully. Having a professional background in Mental Health Nursing, it was reassuring to see that Mr Gayle has researched the subject of Bipolar Affect Disorder with accuracy, sympathy and above all empathy, in what is a seriously debilitating condition, for the individual and their families. However, I found the ending of the book to be a major anti-climax and found myself looking for more answers than I had found. Maybe I've been unlucky, but I have to say I can't see me reading another of Patrick Gayle's books based upon my experience of Notes From an Exhibition.

An absolute gem, 17 Jul 2008
This book is beautifully written. Its an absolute joy and is without doubt worth its 5 stars.

Disappointing, 10 Jul 2008
Patrick Gale writes well and I enjoyed the insights into life as a quaker. I also liked many of the descriptions of interactions between the characters but on the whole I found the book boring and disappointing.

Lord of the Flies , William Golding's classic tale about a group of English schoolboys who are plane-wrecked on a deserted island, is just as chilling and relevant today as when it was first published in 1954. At first, the stranded boys cooperate, attempting to gather food, make shelters, and maintain signal fires. Overseeing their efforts are Ralph, "the boy with fair hair," and Piggy, Ralph's chubby, wisdom-dispensing sidekick whose thick spectacles come in handy for lighting fires. Although Ralph tries to impose order and delegate responsibility, there are many in their number who would rather swim, play, or hunt the island's wild pig population. Soon Ralph's rules are being ignored or challenged outright. His fiercest antagonist is Jack, the redheaded leader of the pig hunters, who manages to lure away many of the boys to join his band of painted savages. The situation deteriorates as the trappings of civilization continue to fall away, until Ralph discovers that instead of being hunters, he and Piggy have become the hunted: "He forgot his words, his hunger and thirst, and became fear; hopeless fear on flying feet." Golding's gripping novel explores the boundary between human reason and animal instinct, all on the brutal playing field of adolescent competition. --Jennifer Hubert

A clever and insightful read, 31 Aug 2008
Although this is the first Patrick Gale book I've ever read it certainly won't be my last. The story focuses on the inter-woven lives and experiences of a family held together by a parents' bi-polar disorder. Each of the characters are very individual, however the mental illness that they live with runs through them all and becomes more evident the further you read on. Gale manages to write about the emotive topic of mental illness without mushy sentimentality or judgements being evident. Excellant!!!

Good book, 01 Aug 2008
Notes From An Exhibition synopsis from Amazon:

Renowned Canadian artist Rachel Kelly -- now of Penzance -- has buried her past and married a gentle and loving Cornish man. Her life has been a sacrifice to both her extraordinary art and her debilitating manic depression. When troubled artist Rachel Kelly dies painting obsessively in her attic studio in Penzance, her saintly husband and adult children have more than the usual mess to clear up. She leaves behind an extraordinary and acclaimed body of work -- but she also leaves a legacy of secrets and emotional damage it will take months to unravel. A wondrous, monstrous creature, she exerts a power that outlives her. To her children she is both curse and blessing, though they all in one way or another reap her whirlwind, inheriting her waywardness, her power of loving -- and her demons. Only their father's Quaker gifts of stillness and resilience give them any chance of withstanding her destructive influence and the suspicion that they came a poor second to the creation of her art.The reader becomes a detective, piecing together the clues of a life -- as artist, lover, mother, wife and patient -- which takes them from contemporary Penzance to 1960s Toronto to St Ives in the 1970s. What emerges is a story of enduring love, and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius. Patrick Gale's latest novel shines with intelligence, humour and tenderness.


What a lovely book. Only 374 pages, and well worth the read.

Throughout the book, Gale deals with the issues of the illness of bipolar, death, faith and family. His description of the art work was beautiful and I could easily picture the work. He began each chapter with a descriptive plaque like you would find beside an artefact in a museum, which helped connect you to Rachel Kelly.

I loved the character of Antony, how he took in Rachel and looked after her, and gave her a family. He seemed the strong, silent type and I just adored him.

As someone who is intimate with depression I found Gale wrote extremely sensitively and well. The story was not in chronological order however and did jump between characters and times. I liked the story that unfolded however and the twists and turns that came with it.

However, I have found myself wanting more. I would have liked more character depth and to learn consequences of actions that we read about.

Overall, this was a good book, I recommend it!

8/10

disappointing, 22 Jul 2008
Very disappointed with this book which was recommended by Uncle Richard and Auntie Judy. I rushed out to buy it to take on holiday and started reading it, enthusiastically reading each page with vigour. Admittedly, Patrick Gayle's use of language describes Rachel, her family and relationships beautifully. Having a professional background in Mental Health Nursing, it was reassuring to see that Mr Gayle has researched the subject of Bipolar Affect Disorder with accuracy, sympathy and above all empathy, in what is a seriously debilitating condition, for the individual and their families. However, I found the ending of the book to be a major anti-climax and found myself looking for more answers than I had found. Maybe I've been unlucky, but I have to say I can't see me reading another of Patrick Gayle's books based upon my experience of Notes From an Exhibition.

An absolute gem, 17 Jul 2008
This book is beautifully written. Its an absolute joy and is without doubt worth its 5 stars.

Disappointing, 10 Jul 2008
Patrick Gale writes well and I enjoyed the insights into life as a quaker. I also liked many of the descriptions of interactions between the characters but on the whole I found the book boring and disappointing.

Loved it, 05 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to not have to read this novel at school. It meant I could read it at my own pace and not have to write 10,000 words on the symbolism of blah, blah, blah. Lord of the Flies has become one of those tales that is a stereotype of itself. But I still enjoyed reading it. I think this book holds up well and it has stood the test of time. But as we move deeper into the Blu-ray generation, however, time can only tell?

It's a slow book that doesn't really go anywhere, 01 Sep 2008
For years this has been on my list of books to read, when I bought it I got ten other books as well. I started reading three or four to begin with. This was the first one I left reading. When I got some of the other books read I went back to it, still no, I picked up a different book. After another while I went back to it but started a few chapters into it. This time I finished it.

The plot I felt didn't go far. The psychological aspect only got interesting towards the end of the book and could've continued into the boys during the aftermath of what had happened. That is what I would be more interested in.

I know that that wasn't really his message but I just think it would have made for a better book.

A good education , 20 Jul 2008
I found the 14 year olds perspective really interesting. I read this book for G.C.S.E. and loved it! admittedly I had read it several years before and found it O.K. Looking back I think I missed some of the finer points and the more gory bits put me off (I was about 10 and more interested in ponies at the time).

It is true to say that often studying a book can ruin it, destroying the magic of the story. but in my case study enriched the experience and helped me to understand some of the finer points. at the time I loved the way that understanding added new depths to the text.

I have just read it again and I still love it. one of the greatest things about LOTF is its ability to appeal to both a young and mature audience, and I was delighted to find that, like teaching, age also offers new angles of approach and fresh perspectives.

Having sung its praises I do feel that William Golding had an axe to grind when he was writing LOTF and there is an ever-present religious undertone that can get a bit monotonus. I think for this reason the book is better suited to younger readers and will be especially appreciated by those with a bit of nouse, who are able to see but not be dragged in by some of the books (arguably) outdated moral ideals that seem a little un-realistic. Similarly some of the more obvious analytical gems, such as the island as a microcosm of the world and the boys as representations of humanity get a bit dull and repetitive, but a bit of reading around will see you well rewarded.

For me LOTF remains a good story and an excellent introduction to textual analysis that is very rewarding no matter when you read it.

Another classic that lives up to its billing, 14 Jul 2008
I always find it a little daunting finally getting round to reading a book that you've previously read and heard so much about. Obviously 'Lord of the Flies' has had a lot said about it, and I cannot but agree with most of it. It's psychologically on the button, delving into and really immersing you in the minds of a group of stranded young boys, and its political allegories are just as striking as Orwell's.
As such, there's not really much to add that hasn't already been said. It's a simple read, but it strikes deep. Golding says as little as possible with his words, but the thoughts he provokes are important ones, and ones that still sound true with us today, in this era of political bandstanding.

Great Book, 19 Jun 2008
I have just finished my GCSEs and I had to study this book. This is a novel not to be missed. The plot, you'd think, is simple enough. Some young boys are stranded on an island in the middle of the war. But there are many hidden meanings within the story, those of dictatorship, savagery and the true but terrible understanding of the "Beast". I think Golding does a wonderful job in portraying each of the characters; Ralph, Jack, Piggy etc. This book was written as a response to "Corral Island" and Golding wished to show what he thought would happen if young boys were put on a tropical island, without adults to enforce law and order. Throughout the novel, you are able to witness the change the boys go through at being left to their own devices. There is constant rivalry between Jack and Ralph, which becomes more brutal and prominant.
This is a classic read and not to be missed!

A clever and insightful read, 31 Aug 2008
Although this is the first Patrick Gale book I've ever read it certainly won't be my last. The story focuses on the inter-woven lives and experiences of a family held together by a parents' bi-polar disorder. Each of the characters are very individual, however the mental illness that they live with runs through them all and becomes more evident the further you read on. Gale manages to write about the emotive topic of mental illness without mushy sentimentality or judgements being evident. Excellant!!!

Good book, 01 Aug 2008
Notes From An Exhibition synopsis from Amazon:

Renowned Canadian artist Rachel Kelly -- now of Penzance -- has buried her past and married a gentle and loving Cornish man. Her life has been a sacrifice to both her extraordinary art and her debilitating manic depression. When troubled artist Rachel Kelly dies painting obsessively in her attic studio in Penzance, her saintly husband and adult children have more than the usual mess to clear up. She leaves behind an extraordinary and acclaimed body of work -- but she also leaves a legacy of secrets and emotional damage it will take months to unravel. A wondrous, monstrous creature, she exerts a power that outlives her. To her children she is both curse and blessing, though they all in one way or another reap her whirlwind, inheriting her waywardness, her power of loving -- and her demons. Only their father's Quaker gifts of stillness and resilience give them any chance of withstanding her destructive influence and the suspicion that they came a poor second to the creation of her art.The reader becomes a detective, piecing together the clues of a life -- as artist, lover, mother, wife and patient -- which takes them from contemporary Penzance to 1960s Toronto to St Ives in the 1970s. What emerges is a story of enduring love, and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius. Patrick Gale's latest novel shines with intelligence, humour and tenderness.


What a lovely book. Only 374 pages, and well worth the read.

Throughout the book, Gale deals with the issues of the illness of bipolar, death, faith and family. His description of the art work was beautiful and I could easily picture the work. He began each chapter with a descriptive plaque like you would find beside an artefact in a museum, which helped connect you to Rachel Kelly.

I loved the character of Antony, how he took in Rachel and looked after her, and gave her a family. He seemed the strong, silent type and I just adored him.

As someone who is intimate with depression I found Gale wrote extremely sensitively and well. The story was not in chronological order however and did jump between characters and times. I liked the story that unfolded however and the twists and turns that came with it.

However, I have found myself wanting more. I would have liked more character depth and to learn consequences of actions that we read about.

Overall, this was a good book, I recommend it!

8/10

disappointing, 22 Jul 2008
Very disappointed with this book which was recommended by Uncle Richard and Auntie Judy. I rushed out to buy it to take on holiday and started reading it, enthusiastically reading each page with vigour. Admittedly, Patrick Gayle's use of language describes Rachel, her family and relationships beautifully. Having a professional background in Mental Health Nursing, it was reassuring to see that Mr Gayle has researched the subject of Bipolar Affect Disorder with accuracy, sympathy and above all empathy, in what is a seriously debilitating condition, for the individual and their families. However, I found the ending of the book to be a major anti-climax and found myself looking for more answers than I had found. Maybe I've been unlucky, but I have to say I can't see me reading another of Patrick Gayle's books based upon my experience of Notes From an Exhibition.

An absolute gem, 17 Jul 2008
This book is beautifully written. Its an absolute joy and is without doubt worth its 5 stars.

Disappointing, 10 Jul 2008
Patrick Gale writes well and I enjoyed the insights into life as a quaker. I also liked many of the descriptions of interactions between the characters but on the whole I found the book boring and disappointing.

Loved it, 05 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to not have to read this novel at school. It meant I could read it at my own pace and not have to write 10,000 words on the symbolism of blah, blah, blah. Lord of the Flies has become one of those tales that is a stereotype of itself. But I still enjoyed reading it. I think this book holds up well and it has stood the test of time. But as we move deeper into the Blu-ray generation, however, time can only tell?

It's a slow book that doesn't really go anywhere, 01 Sep 2008
For years this has been on my list of books to read, when I bought it I got ten other books as well. I started reading three or four to begin with. This was the first one I left reading. When I got some of the other books read I went back to it, still no, I picked up a different book. After another while I went back to it but started a few chapters into it. This time I finished it.

The plot I felt didn't go far. The psychological aspect only got interesting towards the end of the book and could've continued into the boys during the aftermath of what had happened. That is what I would be more interested in.

I know that that wasn't really his message but I just think it would have made for a better book.

A good education , 20 Jul 2008
I found the 14 year olds perspective really interesting. I read this book for G.C.S.E. and loved it! admittedly I had read it several years before and found it O.K. Looking back I think I missed some of the finer points and the more gory bits put me off (I was about 10 and more interested in ponies at the time).

It is true to say that often studying a book can ruin it, destroying the magic of the story. but in my case study enriched the experience and helped me to understand some of the finer points. at the time I loved the way that understanding added new depths to the text.

I have just read it again and I still love it. one of the greatest things about LOTF is its ability to appeal to both a young and mature audience, and I was delighted to find that, like teaching, age also offers new angles of approach and fresh perspectives.

Having sung its praises I do feel that William Golding had an axe to grind when he was writing LOTF and there is an ever-present religious undertone that can get a bit monotonus. I think for this reason the book is better suited to younger readers and will be especially appreciated by those with a bit of nouse, who are able to see but not be dragged in by some of the books (arguably) outdated moral ideals that seem a little un-realistic. Similarly some of the more obvious analytical gems, such as the island as a microcosm of the world and the boys as representations of humanity get a bit dull and repetitive, but a bit of reading around will see you well rewarded.

For me LOTF remains a good story and an excellent introduction to textual analysis that is very rewarding no matter when you read it.

Another classic that lives up to its billing, 14 Jul 2008
I always find it a little daunting finally getting round to reading a book that you've previously read and heard so much about. Obviously 'Lord of the Flies' has had a lot said about it, and I cannot but agree with most of it. It's psychologically on the button, delving into and really immersing you in the minds of a group of stranded young boys, and its political allegories are just as striking as Orwell's.
As such, there's not really much to add that hasn't already been said. It's a simple read, but it strikes deep. Golding says as little as possible with his words, but the thoughts he provokes are important ones, and ones that still sound true with us today, in this era of political bandstanding.

Great Book, 19 Jun 2008
I have just finished my GCSEs and I had to study this book. This is a novel not to be missed. The plot, you'd think, is simple enough. Some young boys are stranded on an island in the middle of the war. But there are many hidden meanings within the story, those of dictatorship, savagery and the true but terrible understanding of the "Beast". I think Golding does a wonderful job in portraying each of the characters; Ralph, Jack, Piggy etc. This book was written as a response to "Corral Island" and Golding wished to show what he thought would happen if young boys were put on a tropical island, without adults to enforce law and order. Throughout the novel, you are able to witness the change the boys go through at being left to their own devices. There is constant rivalry between Jack and Ralph, which becomes more brutal and prominant.
This is a classic read and not to be missed!

BRILLIANT, 01 Sep 2008
This is such an enjoyable book and I must recommed any chick lit fan in need of a decent summer read buys it now.

About half way through, the book was starting to get a little obvious with who was going to end up with who but then a few twists appear along the way, which just kept me glued. The characters are so well described and you really feel part of them when the story starts to unravel.

I have only read one other Jane Green book (Bookends)and would truly recommed both. I will certainly be reading more of her books in the future.

An excellent book and well done Green. You truly are amazing.

Nice easy summer read, 28 Aug 2008
Nice easy summer read,with a few twists and turns thrown in at the end that i didn't see coming at all.Not her best but enjoyable all the same.

Enjoy!!!, 06 Aug 2008
If you have never read Jane Green...now is the time to start!!!
All her books are enjoyable and i guarantee you will be keen to read all her books ..
Perfect for Summer holidays!! I read this in 3 days and didn't want it to end...

One to leave in your holiday cottage, 29 Jul 2008
I'd say 'The Beach House' is a good choice for a holiday read - as in a book that doesn't keep you from sightseeing on your summer holiday because it's just not interesting enough to want to lie around reading.

Not the kind of book I tend to normally choose, but I was hoping to enjoy it all the same. It reminded me very much of magazine fiction...those short stories that I only used to read when I'd read everything else and done the word search!

Actually, it wasn't really awful, just not very challenging. It's very light, lacking in intrigue, and is full of people with relationship problems of varying kinds that predictably all end happily in a blissful location...with everyone becoming bosom buddies.

Just a bit airy fairy for my taste I think. 2.5 stars

Beach house foam, 17 Jul 2008
Jane Green tends to write write fluffy beach reads, the sort of books that get turned into equally fluffy TV movies.

And in "The Beach House," she links together a series of storylines that could have easily made up their own books, with a warm'n'fuzzy sentimental core in an ancient Nantucket house. Unfortunately it begins to come unravelled about halfway through, and some of those storylines simply rush to the finish line without bothering to spin up a satisfactory conclusion.

Eccentric widow Nan Powell is faced with selling her beloved old house Windermere, with its memories of her beloved albeit gambling-addicted hubby. The alternative: take in boarders for money, and fend off the developers who want to tear down Windermere for McMansions.

At about this time, her son Michael returns home after an ill-fated affair with his boss's clingy wife, who now wants a commitment from him. And among the boarders are Daff, a newly-divorced wife and mother who is seeking "herself," and Daniel, a nervy young man who has just realized that he is gay, and is struggling to deal with this. His young wife Bee, who is understandably upset by her husband's distance, is still ignorant of this.

As time winds on -- and the developers circle around Nan's run-down mansion -- the various people begin to relax and open up to each other, like members of a family. But then a series of crises hit -- Bee's father is badly injured, Daff's daughter is arrested, and Michael's desperate former lover shows up with some shocking news for him (yes, you can probably guess what). And even Nan is faced with an old face from her past, who she thought was gone forever....

"The Beach House" has more than enough plot -- any of its subplots would make a decent novel, and Green winds together a series of them with some tenuous links. Jewelry stores, yuppie marriage counseling, and an empty house post-divorce are all explored in detail, as the characters' lives start spinning out of control. And she tackles some of the nastier aspects of adultery and moving on, such as disaster dates and a tantrum-throwing teenager.

But when all the characters get to Nantucket, Green seems to lose some of her inspiration. She rushes through the last quarter of the book after a leisurely build-up. And she seems vaguely embarrassed by the prospect of a big emotional scene -- big shattering events are dealt with via a phone call, a horrifying betrayal is handled by a few sniping comments and general shunning. One character even conveniently expires to avoid dealing with the general baggage.

This is particularly troublesome in Daniel's story -- his coming-out and tentative explorations into the gay subculture is both wrenching and intriguing, as you wonder what this loving father will do to avoid hurting his wife and kids. But once he's out'n'proud, then Green shies away from actually dealing with it, or with his attraction to the conveniently hunky Matt. The drippy "let's not have sex because I want a commitment" scene is simply absurd.

As for the characters, they're a mixed bag. Nan is the biggest problem -- she's not really eccentric, and she's not really nurturing. Yet Green has her randomly flip-flop between being an eccentric old free spirit, and being an earth mother-type. Not that it's very plausible that her tomato garden could instantly turn a spoiled, shrieking, shoplifting regressed teenager into a little angel overnight.

On the other hand, Daniel and Bee are explored with painful, beautiful detail, as he struggles to deal with his homosexuality and she struggles with the revelations about what their marriage was, and where this leaves her as a desirable woman. Too bad Michael is an insensitive and self-absorbed jerk who strings along a married woman until she ditches her hubby, and Daff loses her tragic wronged-woman dimensions as soon as she shrugs off Michael's adulterous liaison. Who cares if that's the sort of thing that broke up her marriage? He's hot and has tight abs!

"The Beach House" has potential and plot to burn, but the rushed final lap and a couple puttered-out storylines leave you frustrated. Here's hoping the next try is longer and more passionate.

A clever and insightful read, 31 Aug 2008
Although this is the first Patrick Gale book I've ever read it certainly won't be my last. The story focuses on the inter-woven lives and experiences of a family held together by a parents' bi-polar disorder. Each of the characters are very individual, however the mental illness that they live with runs through them all and becomes more evident the further you read on. Gale manages to write about the emotive topic of mental illness without mushy sentimentality or judgements being evident. Excellant!!!

Good book, 01 Aug 2008
Notes From An Exhibition synopsis from Amazon:

Renowned Canadian artist Rachel Kelly -- now of Penzance -- has buried her past and married a gentle and loving Cornish man. Her life has been a sacrifice to both her extraordinary art and her debilitating manic depression. When troubled artist Rachel Kelly dies painting obsessively in her attic studio in Penzance, her saintly husband and adult children have more than the usual mess to clear up. She leaves behind an extraordinary and acclaimed body of work -- but she also leaves a legacy of secrets and emotional damage it will take months to unravel. A wondrous, monstrous creature, she exerts a power that outlives her. To her children she is both curse and blessing, though they all in one way or another reap her whirlwind, inheriting her waywardness, her power of loving -- and her demons. Only their father's Quaker gifts of stillness and resilience give them any chance of withstanding her destructive influence and the suspicion that they came a poor second to the creation of her art.The reader becomes a detective, piecing together the clues of a life -- as artist, lover, mother, wife and patient -- which takes them from contemporary Penzance to 1960s Toronto to St Ives in the 1970s. What emerges is a story of enduring love, and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius. Patrick Gale's latest novel shines with intelligence, humour and tenderness.


What a lovely book. Only 374 pages, and well worth the read.

Throughout the book, Gale deals with the issues of the illness of bipolar, death, faith and family. His description of the art work was beautiful and I could easily picture the work. He began each chapter with a descriptive plaque like you would find beside an artefact in a museum, which helped connect you to Rachel Kelly.

I loved the character of Antony, how he took in Rachel and looked after her, and gave her a family. He seemed the strong, silent type and I just adored him.

As someone who is intimate with depression I found Gale wrote extremely sensitively and well. The story was not in chronological order however and did jump between characters and times. I liked the story that unfolded however and the twists and turns that came with it.

However, I have found myself wanting more. I would have liked more character depth and to learn consequences of actions that we read about.

Overall, this was a good book, I recommend it!

8/10

disappointing, 22 Jul 2008
Very disappointed with this book which was recommended by Uncle Richard and Auntie Judy. I rushed out to buy it to take on holiday and started reading it, enthusiastically reading each page with vigour. Admittedly, Patrick Gayle's use of language describes Rachel, her family and relationships beautifully. Having a professional background in Mental Health Nursing, it was reassuring to see that Mr Gayle has researched the subject of Bipolar Affect Disorder with accuracy, sympathy and above all empathy, in what is a seriously debilitating condition, for the individual and their families. However, I found the ending of the book to be a major anti-climax and found myself looking for more answers than I had found. Maybe I've been unlucky, but I have to say I can't see me reading another of Patrick Gayle's books based upon my experience of Notes From an Exhibition.

An absolute gem, 17 Jul 2008
This book is beautifully written. Its an absolute joy and is without doubt worth its 5 stars.

Disappointing, 10 Jul 2008
Patrick Gale writes well and I enjoyed the insights into life as a quaker. I also liked many of the descriptions of interactions between the characters but on the whole I found the book boring and disappointing.

Loved it, 05 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to not have to read this novel at school. It meant I could read it at my own pace and not have to write 10,000 words on the symbolism of blah, blah, blah. Lord of the Flies has become one of those tales that is a stereotype of itself. But I still enjoyed reading it. I think this book holds up well and it has stood the test of time. But as we move deeper into the Blu-ray generation, however, time can only tell?

It's a slow book that doesn't really go anywhere, 01 Sep 2008
For years this has been on my list of books to read, when I bought it I got ten other books as well. I started reading three or four to begin with. This was the first one I left reading. When I got some of the other books read I went back to it, still no, I picked up a different book. After another while I went back to it but started a few chapters into it. This time I finished it.

The plot I felt didn't go far. The psychological aspect only got interesting towards the end of the book and could've continued into the boys during the aftermath of what had happened. That is what I would be more interested in.

I know that that wasn't really his message but I just think it would have made for a better book.

A good education , 20 Jul 2008
I found the 14 year olds perspective really interesting. I read this book for G.C.S.E. and loved it! admittedly I had read it several years before and found it O.K. Looking back I think I missed some of the finer points and the more gory bits put me off (I was about 10 and more interested in ponies at the time).

It is true to say that often studying a book can ruin it, destroying the magic of the story. but in my case study enriched the experience and helped me to understand some of the finer points. at the time I loved the way that understanding added new depths to the text.

I have just read it again and I still love it. one of the greatest things about LOTF is its ability to appeal to both a young and mature audience, and I was delighted to find that, like teaching, age also offers new angles of approach and fresh perspectives.

Having sung its praises I do feel that William Golding had an axe to grind when he was writing LOTF and there is an ever-present religious undertone that can get a bit monotonus. I think for this reason the book is better suited to younger readers and will be especially appreciated by those with a bit of nouse, who are able to see but not be dragged in by some of the books (arguably) outdated moral ideals that seem a little un-realistic. Similarly some of the more obvious analytical gems, such as the island as a microcosm of the world and the boys as representations of humanity get a bit dull and repetitive, but a bit of reading around will see you well rewarded.

For me LOTF remains a good story and an excellent introduction to textual analysis that is very rewarding no matter when you read it.

Another classic that lives up to its billing, 14 Jul 2008
I always find it a little daunting finally getting round to reading a book that you've previously read and heard so much about. Obviously 'Lord of the Flies' has had a lot said about it, and I cannot but agree with most of it. It's psychologically on the button, delving into and really immersing you in the minds of a group of stranded young boys, and its political allegories are just as striking as Orwell's.
As such, there's not really much to add that hasn't already been said. It's a simple read, but it strikes deep. Golding says as little as possible with his words, but the thoughts he provokes are important ones, and ones that still sound true with us today, in this era of political bandstanding.

Great Book, 19 Jun 2008
I have just finished my GCSEs and I had to study this book. This is a novel not to be missed. The plot, you'd think, is simple enough. Some young boys are stranded on an island in the middle of the war. But there are many hidden meanings within the story, those of dictatorship, savagery and the true but terrible understanding of the "Beast". I think Golding does a wonderful job in portraying each of the characters; Ralph, Jack, Piggy etc. This book was written as a response to "Corral Island" and Golding wished to show what he thought would happen if young boys were put on a tropical island, without adults to enforce law and order. Throughout the novel, you are able to witness the change the boys go through at being left to their own devices. There is constant rivalry between Jack and Ralph, which becomes more brutal and prominant.
This is a classic read and not to be missed!

BRILLIANT, 01 Sep 2008
This is such an enjoyable book and I must recommed any chick lit fan in need of a decent summer read buys it now.

About half way through, the book was starting to get a little obvious with who was going to end up with who but then a few twists appear along the way, which just kept me glued. The characters are so well described and you really feel part of them when the story starts to unravel.

I have only read one other Jane Green book (Bookends)and would truly recommed both. I will certainly be reading more of her books in the future.

An excellent book and well done Green. You truly are amazing.

Nice easy summer read, 28 Aug 2008
Nice easy summer read,with a few twists and turns thrown in at the end that i didn't see coming at all.Not her best but enjoyable all the same.

Enjoy!!!, 06 Aug 2008
If you have never read Jane Green...now is the time to start!!!
All her books are enjoyable and i guarantee you will be keen to read all her books ..
Perfect for Summer holidays!! I read this in 3 days and didn't want it to end...

One to leave in your holiday cottage, 29 Jul 2008
I'd say 'The Beach House' is a good choice for a holiday read - as in a book that doesn't keep you from sightseeing on your summer holiday because it's just not interesting enough to want to lie around reading.

Not the kind of book I tend to normally choose, but I was hoping to enjoy it all the same. It reminded me very much of magazine fiction...those short stories that I only used to read when I'd read everything else and done the word search!

Actually, it wasn't really awful, just not very challenging. It's very light, lacking in intrigue, and is full of people with relationship problems of varying kinds that predictably all end happily in a blissful location...with everyone becoming bosom buddies.

Just a bit airy fairy for my taste I think. 2.5 stars

Beach house foam, 17 Jul 2008
Jane Green tends to write write fluffy beach reads, the sort of books that get turned into equally fluffy TV movies.

And in "The Beach House," she links together a series of storylines that could have easily made up their own books, with a warm'n'fuzzy sentimental core in an ancient Nantucket house. Unfortunately it begins to come unravelled about halfway through, and some of those storylines simply rush to the finish line without bothering to spin up a satisfactory conclusion.

Eccentric widow Nan Powell is faced with selling her beloved old house Windermere, with its memories of her beloved albeit gambling-addicted hubby. The alternative: take in boarders for money, and fend off the developers who want to tear down Windermere for McMansions.

At about this time, her son Michael returns home after an ill-fated affair with his boss's clingy wife, who now wants a commitment from him. And among the boarders are Daff, a newly-divorced wife and mother who is seeking "herself," and Daniel, a nervy young man who has just realized that he is gay, and is struggling to deal with this. His young wife Bee, who is understandably upset by her husband's distance, is still ignorant of this.

As time winds on -- and the developers circle around Nan's run-down mansion -- the various people begin to relax and open up to each other, like members of a family. But then a series of crises hit -- Bee's father is badly injured, Daff's daughter is arrested, and Michael's desperate former lover shows up with some shocking news for him (yes, you can probably guess what). And even Nan is faced with an old face from her past, who she thought was gone forever....

"The Beach House" has more than enough plot -- any of its subplots would make a decent novel, and Green winds together a series of them with some tenuous links. Jewelry stores, yuppie marriage counseling, and an empty house post-divorce are all explored in detail, as the characters' lives start spinning out of control. And she tackles some of the nastier aspects of adultery and moving on, such as disaster dates and a tantrum-throwing teenager.

But when all the characters get to Nantucket, Green seems to lose some of her inspiration. She rushes through the last quarter of the book after a leisurely build-up. And she seems vaguely embarrassed by the prospect of a big emotional scene -- big shattering events are dealt with via a phone call, a horrifying betrayal is handled by a few sniping comments and general shunning. One character even conveniently expires to avoid dealing with the general baggage.

This is particularly troublesome in Daniel's story -- his coming-out and tentative explorations into the gay subculture is both wrenching and intriguing, as you wonder what this loving father will do to avoid hurting his wife and kids. But once he's out'n'proud, then Green shies away from actually dealing with it, or with his attraction to the conveniently hunky Matt. The drippy "let's not have sex because I want a commitment" scene is simply absurd.

As for the characters, they're a mixed bag. Nan is the biggest problem -- she's not really eccentric, and she's not really nurturing. Yet Green has her randomly flip-flop between being an eccentric old free spirit, and being an earth mother-type. Not that it's very plausible that her tomato garden could instantly turn a spoiled, shrieking, shoplifting regressed teenager into a little angel overnight.

On the other hand, Daniel and Bee are explored with painful, beautiful detail, as he struggles to deal with his homosexuality and she struggles with the revelations about what their marriage was, and where this leaves her as a desirable woman. Too bad Michael is an insensitive and self-absorbed jerk who strings along a married woman until she ditches her hubby, and Daff loses her tragic wronged-woman dimensions as soon as she shrugs off Michael's adulterous liaison. Who cares if that's the sort of thing that broke up her marriage? He's hot and has tight abs!

"The Beach House" has potential and plot to burn, but the rushed final lap and a couple puttered-out storylines leave you frustrated. Here's hoping the next try is longer and more passionate.

Awful, 03 Sep 2008
Oh, dear. Mike Gayle's books used to be comfort reading on holidays but with The Life & Soul Of The Party, he has not done himself any favours. Where to start? The book starts off with the death of one of the characters, so this is not a spoiler but the problem is that during the book the character is not really developed. He appears to be the soulmate of his ex (who cannot let go) but during the book he behaves in a way that does not really explain as to why his ex finds it so hard to let go or why we should be sorry for his death (other than that it is obviously terrible if somebody in their thirties dies in a car accident). Whilst I did not expect any great depth, all the characters are somewhat shallow and most of them unfaithful without any reason or explanation. I am not saying that there needs to be a reason why somebody cheats on the somebody else but in order to like any character featured in a book, an explanation would help. For the time being Mike Gayle is off my holiday reading list.

Subtley tugs the heartstrings..., 21 Aug 2008
This is Mike Gayle at his best... a writing style that is humorous without trying too hard, always touching (I can't count how many times I got goosebumps or had tears in my eyes) and very easy to relate to, especially if you have a mixed group of friends.

It is written in first person but from the point of view of every character, which works well, and will therefore appeal to both sexes even more than is usually the case with Mike's novels.

Overall, a more serious mood throughout the book - and a more mature version of his previous work.

Wanted to savour this book, but I really couldn't put it down. You are gripped from the very first page. Definitely a new competitor for my favourite Mike Gayle book!

Mike Gayle- Life and Soul of the Party, 30 Jul 2008
I love Mike Gayle - as a woman i naturally enjoy a good romance but, not really being one of these smushy over the top with affection women i sometimes struggle to appreciate the writing style of some of the more popular female authors out there. Mike Gayle, writing with a male viewpoint gets straight to the point and doesn't waste precious page space inflitrating every conversation with twenty sweethearts and darlings which can bog down a plot and make it seem unrealistic. This book is really really well written and as it tells you on the first page how it ends the whole sense of foreboding made me cry more than once. The party setting throughout is brilliant as it really makes you want to go and crash a house party just to steal there most expensive bottle of wine!. Whilst it remains mostly upbeat i did cry several times as, the situation lead character melissa is in is incredibly similar to my own that the reading fell a little close to the bone sometimes. otherwise a must read!!! not as good as my all time favourite gayle novel brand new friend but very very good all the same !!

A clever and insightful read, 31 Aug 2008
Although this is the first Patrick Gale book I've ever read it certainly won't be my last. The story focuses on the inter-woven lives and experiences of a family held together by a parents' bi-polar disorder. Each of the characters are very individual, however the mental illness that they live with runs through them all and becomes more evident the further you read on. Gale manages to write about the emotive topic of mental illness without mushy sentimentality or judgements being evident. Excellant!!!

Good book, 01 Aug 2008
Notes From An Exhibition synopsis from Amazon:

Renowned Canadian artist Rachel Kelly -- now of Penzance -- has buried her past and married a gentle and loving Cornish man. Her life has been a sacrifice to both her extraordinary art and her debilitating manic depression. When troubled artist Rachel Kelly dies painting obsessively in her attic studio in Penzance, her saintly husband and adult children have more than the usual mess to clear up. She leaves behind an extraordinary and acclaimed body of work -- but she also leaves a legacy of secrets and emotional damage it will take months to unravel. A wondrous, monstrous creature, she exerts a power that outlives her. To her children she is both curse and blessing, though they all in one way or another reap her whirlwind, inheriting her waywardness, her power of loving -- and her demons. Only their father's Quaker gifts of stillness and resilience give them any chance of withstanding her destructive influence and the suspicion that they came a poor second to the creation of her art.The reader becomes a detective, piecing together the clues of a life -- as artist, lover, mother, wife and patient -- which takes them from contemporary Penzance to 1960s Toronto to St Ives in the 1970s. What emerges is a story of enduring love, and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius. Patrick Gale's latest novel shines with intelligence, humour and tenderness.


What a lovely book. Only 374 pages, and well worth the read.

Throughout the book, Gale deals with the issues of the illness of bipolar, death, faith and family. His description of the art work was beautiful and I could easily picture the work. He began each chapter with a descriptive plaque like you would find beside an artefact in a museum, which helped connect you to Rachel Kelly.

I loved the character of Antony, how he took in Rachel and looked after her, and gave her a family. He seemed the strong, silent type and I just adored him.

As someone who is intimate with depression I found Gale wrote extremely sensitively and well. The story was not in chronological order however and did jump between characters and times. I liked the story that unfolded however and the twists and turns that came with it.

However, I have found myself wanting more. I would have liked more character depth and to learn consequences of actions that we read about.

Overall, this was a good book, I recommend it!

8/10

disappointing, 22 Jul 2008
Very disappointed with this book which was recommended by Uncle Richard and Auntie Judy. I rushed out to buy it to take on holiday and started reading it, enthusiastically reading each page with vigour. Admittedly, Patrick Gayle's use of language describes Rachel, her family and relationships beautifully. Having a professional background in Mental Health Nursing, it was reassuring to see that Mr Gayle has researched the subject of Bipolar Affect Disorder with accuracy, sympathy and above all empathy, in what is a seriously debilitating condition, for the individual and their families. However, I found the ending of the book to be a major anti-climax and found myself looking for more answers than I had found. Maybe I've been unlucky, but I have to say I can't see me reading another of Patrick Gayle's books based upon my experience of Notes From an Exhibition.

An absolute gem, 17 Jul 2008
This book is beautifully written. Its an absolute joy and is without doubt worth its 5 stars.

Disappointing, 10 Jul 2008
Patrick Gale writes well and I enjoyed the insights into life as a quaker. I also liked many of the descriptions of interactions between the characters but on the whole I found the book boring and disappointing.

Loved it, 05 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to not have to read this novel at school. It meant I could read it at my own pace and not have to write 10,000 words on the symbolism of blah, blah, blah. Lord of the Flies has become one of those tales that is a stereotype of itself. But I still enjoyed reading it. I think this book holds up well and it has stood the test of time. But as we move deeper into the Blu-ray generation, however, time can only tell?

It's a slow book that doesn't really go anywhere, 01 Sep 2008
For years this has been on my list of books to read, when I bought it I got ten other books as well. I started reading three or four to begin with. This was the first one I left reading. When I got some of the other books read I went back to it, still no, I picked up a different book. After another while I went back to it but started a few chapters into it. This time I finished it.

The plot I felt didn't go far. The psychological aspect only got interesting towards the end of the book and could've continued into the boys during the aftermath of what had happened. That is what I would be more interested in.

I know that that wasn't really his message but I just think it would have made for a better book.

A good education , 20 Jul 2008
I found the 14 year olds perspective really interesting. I read this book for G.C.S.E. and loved it! admittedly I had read it several years before and found it O.K. Looking back I think I missed some of the finer points and the more gory bits put me off (I was about 10 and more interested in ponies at the time).

It is true to say that often studying a book can ruin it, destroying the magic of the story. but in my case study enriched the experience and helped me to understand some of the finer points. at the time I loved the way that understanding added new depths to the text.

I have just read it again and I still love it. one of the greatest things about LOTF is its ability to appeal to both a young and mature audience, and I was delighted to find that, like teaching, age also offers new angles of approach and fresh perspectives.

Having sung its praises I do feel that William Golding had an axe to grind when he was writing LOTF and there is an ever-present religious undertone that can get a bit monotonus. I think for this reason the book is better suited to younger readers and will be especially appreciated by those with a bit of nouse, who are able to see but not be dragged in by some of the books (arguably) outdated moral ideals that seem a little un-realistic. Similarly some of the more obvious analytical gems, such as the island as a microcosm of the world and the boys as representations of humanity get a bit dull and repetitive, but a bit of reading around will see you well rewarded.

For me LOTF remains a good story and an excellent introduction to textual analysis that is very rewarding no matter when you read it.

Another classic that lives up to its billing, 14 Jul 2008
I always find it a little daunting finally getting round to reading a book that you've previously read and heard so much about. Obviously 'Lord of the Flies' has had a lot said about it, and I cannot but agree with most of it. It's psychologically on the button, delving into and really immersing you in the minds of a group of stranded young boys, and its political allegories are just as striking as Orwell's.
As such, there's not really much to add that hasn't already been said. It's a simple read, but it strikes deep. Golding says as little as possible with his words, but the thoughts he provokes are important ones, and ones that still sound true with us today, in this era of political bandstanding.

Great Book, 19 Jun 2008
I have just finished my GCSEs and I had to study this book. This is a novel not to be missed. The plot, you'd think, is simple enough. Some young boys are stranded on an island in the middle of the war. But there are many hidden meanings within the story, those of dictatorship, savagery and the true but terrible understanding of the "Beast". I think Golding does a wonderful job in portraying each of the characters; Ralph, Jack, Piggy etc. This book was written as a response to "Corral Island" and Golding wished to show what he thought would happen if young boys were put on a tropical island, without adults to enforce law and order. Throughout the novel, you are able to witness the change the boys go through at being left to their own devices. There is constant rivalry between Jack and Ralph, which becomes more brutal and prominant.
This is a classic read and not to be missed!

BRILLIANT, 01 Sep 2008
This is such an enjoyable book and I must recommed any chick lit fan in need of a decent summer read buys it now.

About half way through, the book was starting to get a little obvious with who was going to end up with who but then a few twists appear along the way, which just kept me glued. The characters are so well described and you really feel part of them when the story starts to unravel.

I have only read one other Jane Green book (Bookends)and would truly recommed both. I will certainly be reading more of her books in the future.

An excellent book and well done Green. You truly are amazing.

Nice easy summer read, 28 Aug 2008
Nice easy summer read,with a few twists and turns thrown in at the end that i didn't see coming at all.Not her best but enjoyable all the same.

Enjoy!!!, 06 Aug 2008
If you have never read Jane Green...now is the time to start!!!
All her books are enjoyable and i guarantee you will be keen to read all her books ..
Perfect for Summer holidays!! I read this in 3 days and didn't want it to end...

One to leave in your holiday cottage, 29 Jul 2008
I'd say 'The Beach House' is a good choice for a holiday read - as in a book that doesn't keep you from sightseeing on your summer holiday because it's just not interesting enough to want to lie around reading.

Not the kind of book I tend to normally choose, but I was hoping to enjoy it all the same. It reminded me very much of magazine fiction...those short stories that I only used to read when I'd read everything else and done the word search!

Actually, it wasn't really awful, just not very challenging. It's very light, lacking in intrigue, and is full of people with relationship problems of varying kinds that predictably all end happily in a blissful location...with everyone becoming bosom buddies.

Just a bit airy fairy for my taste I think. 2.5 stars

Beach house foam, 17 Jul 2008
Jane Green tends to write write fluffy beach reads, the sort of books that get turned into equally fluffy TV movies.

And in "The Beach House," she links together a series of storylines that could have easily made up their own books, with a warm'n'fuzzy sentimental core in an ancient Nantucket house. Unfortunately it begins to come unravelled about halfway through, and some of those storylines simply rush to the finish line without bothering to spin up a satisfactory conclusion.

Eccentric widow Nan Powell is faced with selling her beloved old house Windermere, with its memories of her beloved albeit gambling-addicted hubby. The alternative: take in boarders for money, and fend off the developers who want to tear down Windermere for McMansions.

At about this time, her son Michael returns home after an ill-fated affair with his boss's clingy wife, who now wants a commitment from him. And among the boarders are Daff, a newly-divorced wife and mother who is seeking "herself," and Daniel, a nervy young man who has just realized that he is gay, and is struggling to deal with this. His young wife Bee, who is understandably upset by her husband's distance, is still ignorant of this.

As time winds on -- and the developers circle around Nan's run-down mansion -- the various people begin to relax and open up to each other, like members of a family. But then a series of crises hit -- Bee's father is badly injured, Daff's daughter is arrested, and Michael's desperate former lover shows up with some shocking news for him (yes, you can probably guess what). And even Nan is faced with an old face from her past, who she thought was gone forever....

"The Beach House" has more than enough plot -- any of its subplots would make a decent novel, and Green winds together a series of them with some tenuous links. Jewelry stores, yuppie marriage counseling, and an empty house post-divorce are all explored in detail, as the characters' lives start spinning out of control. And she tackles some of the nastier aspects of adultery and moving on, such as disaster dates and a tantrum-throwing teenager.

But when all the characters get to Nantucket, Green seems to lose some of her inspiration. She rushes through the last quarter of the book after a leisurely build-up. And she seems vaguely embarrassed by the prospect of a big emotional scene -- big shattering events are dealt with via a phone call, a horrifying betrayal is handled by a few sniping comments and general shunning. One character even conveniently expires to avoid dealing with the general baggage.

This is particularly troublesome in Daniel's story -- his coming-out and tentative explorations into the gay subculture is both wrenching and intriguing, as you wonder what this loving father will do to avoid hurting his wife and kids. But once he's out'n'proud, then Green shies away from actually dealing with it, or with his attraction to the conveniently hunky Matt. The drippy "let's not have sex because I want a commitment" scene is simply absurd.

As for the characters, they're a mixed bag. Nan is the biggest problem -- she's not really eccentric, and she's not really nurturing. Yet Green has her randomly flip-flop between being an eccentric old free spirit, and being an earth mother-type. Not that it's very plausible that her tomato garden could instantly turn a spoiled, shrieking, shoplifting regressed teenager into a little angel overnight.

On the other hand, Daniel and Bee are explored with painful, beautiful detail, as he struggles to deal with his homosexuality and she struggles with the revelations about what their marriage was, and where this leaves her as a desirable woman. Too bad Michael is an insensitive and self-absorbed jerk who strings along a married woman until she ditches her hubby, and Daff loses her tragic wronged-woman dimensions as soon as she shrugs off Michael's adulterous liaison. Who cares if that's the sort of thing that broke up her marriage? He's hot and has tight abs!

"The Beach House" has potential and plot to burn, but the rushed final lap and a couple puttered-out storylines leave you frustrated. Here's hoping the next try is longer and more passionate.

Awful, 03 Sep 2008
Oh, dear. Mike Gayle's books used to be comfort reading on holidays but with The Life & Soul Of The Party, he has not done himself any favours. Where to start? The book starts off with the death of one of the characters, so this is not a spoiler but the problem is that during the book the character is not really developed. He appears to be the soulmate of his ex (who cannot let go) but during the book he behaves in a way that does not really explain as to why his ex finds it so hard to let go or why we should be sorry for his death (other than that it is obviously terrible if somebody in their thirties dies in a car accident). Whilst I did not expect any great depth, all the characters are somewhat shallow and most of them unfaithful without any reason or explanation. I am not saying that there needs to be a reason why somebody cheats on the somebody else but in order to like any character featured in a book, an explanation would help. For the time being Mike Gayle is off my holiday reading list.

Subtley tugs the heartstrings..., 21 Aug 2008
This is Mike Gayle at his best... a writing style that is humorous without trying too hard, always touching (I can't count how many times I got goosebumps or had tears in my eyes) and very easy to relate to, especially if you have a mixed group of friends.

It is written in first person but from the point of view of every character, which works well, and will therefore appeal to both sexes even more than is usually the case with Mike's novels.

Overall, a more serious mood throughout the book - and a more mature version of his previous work.

Wanted to savour this book, but I really couldn't put it down. You are gripped from the very first page. Definitely a new competitor for my favourite Mike Gayle book!

Mike Gayle- Life and Soul of the Party, 30 Jul 2008
I love Mike Gayle - as a woman i naturally enjoy a good romance but, not really being one of these smushy over the top with affection women i sometimes struggle to appreciate the writing style of some of the more popular female authors out there. Mike Gayle, writing with a male viewpoint gets straight to the point and doesn't waste precious page space inflitrating every conversation with twenty sweethearts and darlings which can bog down a plot and make it seem unrealistic. This book is really really well written and as it tells you on the first page how it ends the whole sense of foreboding made me cry more than once. The party setting throughout is brilliant as it really makes you want to go and crash a house party just to steal there most expensive bottle of wine!. Whilst it remains mostly upbeat i did cry several times as, the situation lead character melissa is in is incredibly similar to my own that the reading fell a little close to the bone sometimes. otherwise a must read!!! not as good as my all time favourite gayle novel brand new friend but very very good all the same !!

Familiar Grisham - just not that great, 30 Aug 2008
The last year or so have been troublesome as I haven't had a 'generic' John Grisham to read on my holidays. I fell into this routine a decade ago and it became a habit although not last year as I read reviews of the Pizza book and decided I'd avoid. Imagine my utter joy this year when I discover a new 'proper' Grisham book to chill me out in my first few days of holiday - it was a paperback too so that was good! I'm back from holiday now and have finished 'The Appeal'. It is OK but just didn't satisfy in the way all, well I'm pretty sure all, previous Grisham legalpap books have. I associate Grisham books with multiple plot layers that weave, intrigue and conclude well. This is written around an interersting issue but not in a particulaly interesting or attention keeping way. It just isn't as good and at times seems to insult my intelligence in a way I never felt before.

So to all the others in the Grisham holiday reading club I'd suggest you get your expectations tuned down a bit: if you are expecting more of the same super lealpap then you'll be left a little empty come the (poor but timely) ending.

A clever and insightful read, 31 Aug 2008
Although this is the first Patrick Gale book I've ever read it certainly won't be my last. The story focuses on the inter-woven lives and experiences of a family held together by a parents' bi-polar disorder. Each of the characters are very individual, however the mental illness that they live with runs through them all and becomes more evident the further you read on. Gale manages to write about the emotive topic of mental illness without mushy sentimentality or judgements being evident. Excellant!!!

Good book, 01 Aug 2008
Notes From An Exhibition synopsis from Amazon:

Renowned Canadian artist Rachel Kelly -- now of Penzance -- has buried her past and married a gentle and loving Cornish man. Her life has been a sacrifice to both her extraordinary art and her debilitating manic depression. When troubled artist Rachel Kelly dies painting obsessively in her attic studio in Penzance, her saintly husband and adult children have more than the usual mess to clear up. She leaves behind an extraordinary and acclaimed body of work -- but she also leaves a legacy of secrets and emotional damage it will take months to unravel. A wondrous, monstrous creature, she exerts a power that outlives her. To her children she is both curse and blessing, though they all in one way or another reap her whirlwind, inheriting her waywardness, her power of loving -- and her demons. Only their father's Quaker gifts of stillness and resilience give them any chance of withstanding her destructive influence and the suspicion that they came a poor second to the creation of her art.The reader becomes a detective, piecing together the clues of a life -- as artist, lover, mother, wife and patient -- which takes them from contemporary Penzance to 1960s Toronto to St Ives in the 1970s. What emerges is a story of enduring love, and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius. Patrick Gale's latest novel shines with intelligence, humour and tenderness.


What a lovely book. Only 374 pages, and well worth the read.

Throughout the book, Gale deals with the issues of the illness of bipolar, death, faith and family. His description of the art work was beautiful and I could easily picture the work. He began each chapter with a descriptive plaque like you would find beside an artefact in a museum, which helped connect you to Rachel Kelly.

I loved the character of Antony, how he took in Rachel and looked after her, and gave her a family. He seemed the strong, silent type and I just adored him.

As someone who is intimate with depression I found Gale wrote extremely sensitively and well. The story was not in chronological order however and did jump between characters and times. I liked the story that unfolded however and the twists and turns that came with it.

However, I have found myself wanting more. I would have liked more character depth and to learn consequences of actions that we read about.

Overall, this was a good book, I recommend it!

8/10

disappointing, 22 Jul 2008
Very disappointed with this book which was recommended by Uncle Richard and Auntie Judy. I rushed out to buy it to take on holiday and started reading it, enthusiastically reading each page with vigour. Admittedly, Patrick Gayle's use of language describes Rachel, her family and relationships beautifully. Having a professional background in Mental Health Nursing, it was reassuring to see that Mr Gayle has researched the subject of Bipolar Affect Disorder with accuracy, sympathy and above all empathy, in what is a seriously debilitating condition, for the individual and their families. However, I found the ending of the book to be a major anti-climax and found myself looking for more answers than I had found. Maybe I've been unlucky, but I have to say I can't see me reading another of Patrick Gayle's books based upon my experience of Notes From an Exhibition.

An absolute gem, 17 Jul 2008
This book is beautifully written. Its an absolute joy and is without doubt worth its 5 stars.

Disappointing, 10 Jul 2008
Patrick Gale writes well and I enjoyed the insights into life as a quaker. I also liked many of the descriptions of interactions between the characters but on the whole I found the book boring and disappointing.

Loved it, 05 Sep 2008
I was fortunate enough to not have to read this novel at school. It meant I could read it at my own pace and not have to write 10,000 words on the symbolism of blah, blah, blah. Lord of the Flies has become one of those tales that is a stereotype of itself. But I still enjoyed reading it. I think this book holds up well and it has stood the test of time. But as we move deeper into the Blu-ray generation, however, time can only tell?

It's a slow book that doesn't really go anywhere, 01 Sep 2008
For years this has been on my list of books to read, when I bought it I got ten other books as well. I started reading three or four to begin with. This was the first one I left reading. When I got some of the other books read I went back to it, still no, I picked up a different book. After another while I went back to it but started a few chapters into it. This time I finished it.

The plot I felt didn't go far. The psychological aspect only got interesting towards the end of the book and could've continued into the boys during the aftermath of what had happened. That is what I would be more interested in.

I know that that wasn't really his message but I just think it would have made for a better book.

A good education , 20 Jul 2008
I found the 14 year olds perspective really interesting. I read this book for G.C.S.E. and loved it! admittedly I had read it several years before and found it O.K. Looking back I think I missed some of the finer points and the more gory bits put me off (I was about 10 and more interested in ponies at the time).

It is true to say that often studying a book can ruin it, destroying the magic of the story. but in my case study enriched the experience and helped me to understand some of the finer points. at the time I loved the way that understanding added new depths to the text.

I have just read it again and I still love it. one of the greatest things about LOTF is its ability to appeal to both a young and mature audience, and I was delighted to find that, like teaching, age also offers new angles of approach and fresh perspectives.

Having sung its praises I do feel that William Golding had an axe to grind when he was writing LOTF and there is an ever-present religious undertone that can get a bit monotonus. I think for this reason the book is better suited to younger readers and will be especially appreciated by those with a bit of nouse, who are able to see but not be dragged in by some of the books (arguably) outdated moral ideals that seem a little un-realistic. Similarly some of the more obvious analytical gems, such as the island as a microcosm of the world and the boys as representations of humanity get a bit dull and repetitive, but a bit of reading around will see you well rewarded.

For me LOTF remains a good story and an excellent introduction to textual analysis that is very rewarding no matter when you read it.

Another classic that lives up to its billing, 14 Jul 2008
I always find it a little daunting finally getting round to reading a book that you've previously read and heard so much about. Obviously 'Lord of the Flies' has had a lot said about it, and I cannot but agree with most of it. It's psychologically on the button, delving into and really immersing you in the minds of a group of stranded young boys, and its political allegories are just as striking as Orwell's.
As such, there's not really much to add that hasn't already been said. It's a simple read, but it strikes deep. Golding says as little as possible with his words, but the thoughts he provokes are important ones, and ones that still sound true with us today, in this era of political bandstanding.

Great Book, 19 Jun 2008
I have just finished my GCSEs and I had to study this book. This is a novel not to be missed. The plot, you'd think, is simple enough. Some young boys are stranded on an island in the middle of the war. But there are many hidden meanings within the story, those of dictatorship, savagery and the true but terrible understanding of the "Beast". I think Golding does a wonderful job in portraying each of the characters; Ralph, Jack, Piggy etc. This book was written as a response to "Corral Island" and Golding wished to show what he thought would happen if young boys were put on a tropical island, without adults to enforce law and order. Throughout the novel, you are able to witness the change the boys go through at being left to their own devices. There is constant rivalry between Jack and Ralph, which becomes more brutal and prominant.
This is a classic read and not to be missed!

BRILLIANT, 01 Sep 2008
This is such an enjoyable book and I must recommed any chick lit fan in need of a decent summer read buys it now.

About half way through, the book was starting to get a little obvious with who was going to end up with who but then a few twists appear along the way, which just kept me glued. The characters are so well described and you really feel part of them when the story starts to unravel.

I have only read one other Jane Green book (Bookends)and would truly recommed both. I will certainly be reading more of her books in the future.

An excellent book and well done Green. You truly are amazing.

Nice easy summer read, 28 Aug 2008
Nice easy summer read,with a few twists and turns thrown in at the end that i didn't see coming at all.Not her best but enjoyable all the same.

Enjoy!!!, 06 Aug 2008
If you have never read Jane Green...now is the time to start!!!
All her books are enjoyable and i guarantee you will be keen to read all her books ..
Perfect for Summer holidays!! I read this in 3 days and didn't want it to end...

One to leave in your holiday cottage, 29 Jul 2008
I'd say 'The Beach House' is a good choice for a holiday read - as in a book that doesn't keep you from sightseeing on your summer holiday because it's just not interesting enough to want to lie around reading.

Not the kind of book I tend to normally choose, but I was hoping to enjoy it all the same. It reminded me very much of magazine fiction...those short stories that I only used to read when I'd read everything else and done the word search!

Actually, it wasn't really awful, just not very challenging. It's very light, lacking in intrigue, and is full of people with relationship problems of varying kinds that predictably all end happily in a blissful location...with everyone becoming bosom buddies.

Just a bit airy fairy for my taste I think. 2.5 stars

Beach house foam, 17 Jul 2008
Jane Green tends to write write fluffy beach reads, the sort of books that get turned into equally fluffy TV movies.

And in "The Beach House," she links together a series of storylines that could have easily made up their own books, with a warm'n'fuzzy sentimental core in an ancient Nantucket house. Unfortunately it begins to come unravelled about halfway through, and some of those storylines simply rush to the finish line without bothering to spin up a satisfactory conclusion.

Eccentric widow Nan Powell is faced with selling her beloved old house Windermere, with its memories of her beloved albeit gambling-addicted hubby. The alternative: take in boarders for money, and fend off the developers who want to tear down Windermere for McMansions.

At about this time, her son Michael returns home after an ill-fated affair with his boss's clingy wife, who now wants a commitment from him. And among the boarders are Daff, a newly-divorced wife and mother who is seeking "herself," and Daniel, a nervy young man who has just realized that he is gay, and is struggling to deal with this. His young wife Bee, who is understandably upset by her husband's distance, is still ignorant of this.

As time winds on -- and the developers circle around Nan's run-down mansion -- the various people begin to relax and open up to each other, like members of a family. But then a series of crises hit -- Bee's father is badly injured, Daff's daughter is arrested, and Michael's desperate former lover shows up with some shocking news for him (yes, you can probably guess what). And even Nan is faced with an old face from her past, who she thought was gone forever....

"The Beach House" has more than enough plot -- any of its subplots would make a decent novel, and Green winds together a series of them with some tenuous links. Jewelry stores, yuppie marriage counseling, and an empty house post-divorce are all explored in detail, as the characters' lives start spinning out of control. And she tackles some of the nastier aspects of adultery and moving on, such as disaster dates and a tantrum-throwing teenager.

But when all the characters get to Nantucket, Green seems to lose some of her inspiration. She rushes through the last quarter of the book after a leisurely build-up. And she seems vaguely embarrassed by the prospect of a big emotional scene -- big shattering events are dealt with via a phone call, a horrifying betrayal is handled by a few sniping comments and general shunning. One character even conveniently expires to avoid dealing with the general baggage.

This is particularly troublesome in Daniel's story -- his coming-out and tentative explorations into the gay subculture is both wrenching and intriguing, as you wonder what this loving father will do to avoid hurting his wife and kids. But once he's out'n'proud, then Green shies away from actually dealing with it, or with his attraction to the conveniently hunky Matt. The drippy "let's not have sex because I want a commitment" scene is simply absurd.

As for the characters, they're a mixed bag. Nan is the biggest problem -- she's not really eccentric, and she's not really nurturing. Yet Green has her randomly flip-flop between being an eccentric old free spirit, and being an earth mother-type. Not that it's very plausible that her tomato garden could instantly turn a spoiled, shrieking, shoplifting regressed teenager into a little angel overnight.

On the other hand, Daniel and Bee are explored with painful, beautiful detail, as he struggles to deal with his homosexuality and she struggles with the revelations about what their marriage was, and where this leaves her as a desirable woman. Too bad Michael is an insensitive and self-absorbed jerk who strings along a married woman until she ditches her hubby, and Daff loses her tragic wronged-woman dimensions as soon as she shrugs off Michael's adulterous liaison. Who cares if that's the sort of thing that broke up her marriage? He's hot and has tight abs!

"The Beach House" has potential and plot to burn, but the rushed final lap and a couple puttered-out storylines leave you frustrated. Here's hoping the next try is longer and more passionate.

Awful, 03 Sep 2008
Oh, dear. Mike Gayle's books used to be comfort reading on holidays but with The Life & Soul Of The Party, he has not done himself any favours. Where to start? The book starts off with the death of one of the characters, so this is not a spoiler but the problem is that during the book the character is not really developed. He appears to be the soulmate of his ex (who cannot let go) but during the book he behaves in a way that does not really explain as to why his ex finds it so hard to let go or why we should be sorry for his death (other than that it is obviously terrible if somebody in their thirties dies in a car accident). Whilst I did not expect any great depth, all the characters are somewhat shallow and most of them unfaithful without any reason or explanation. I am not saying that there needs to be a reason why somebody cheats on the somebody else but in order to like any character featured in a book, an explanation would help. For the time being Mike Gayle is off my holiday reading list.

Subtley tugs the heartstrings..., 21 Aug 2008
This is Mike Gayle at his best... a writing style that is humorous without trying too hard, always touching (I can't count how many times I got goosebumps or had tears in my eyes) and very easy to relate to, especially if you have a mixed group of friends.

It is written in first person but from the point of view of every character, which works well, and will therefore appeal to both sexes even more than is usually the case with Mike's novels.

Overall, a more serious mood throughout the book - and a more mature version of his previous work.

Wanted to savour this book, but I really couldn't put it down. You are gripped from the very first page. Definitely a new competitor for my favourite Mike Gayle book!

Mike Gayle- Life and Soul of the Party, 30 Jul 2008
I love Mike Gayle - as a woman i naturally enjoy a good romance but, not really being one of these smushy over the top with affection women i sometimes struggle to appreciate the writing style of some of the more popular female authors out there. Mike Gayle, writing with a male viewpoint gets straight to the point and doesn't waste precious page space inflitrating every conversation with twenty sweethearts and darlings which can bog down a plot and make it seem unrealistic. This book is really really well written and as it tells you on the first page how it ends the whole sense of foreboding made me cry more than once. The party setting throughout is brilliant as it really makes you want to go and crash a house party just to steal there most expensive bottle of wine!. Whilst it remains mostly upbeat i did cry several times as, the situation lead character melissa is in is incredibly similar to my own that the reading fell a little close to the bone sometimes. otherwise a must read!!! not as good as my all time favourite gayle novel brand new friend but very very good all the same !!

Familiar Grisham - just not that great, 30 Aug 2008
The last year or so have been troublesome as I haven't had a 'generic' John Grisham to read on my holidays. I fell into this routine a decade ago and it became a habit although not last year as I read reviews of the Pizza book and decided I'd avoid. Imagine my utter joy this year when I discover a new 'proper' Grisham book to chill me out in my first few days of holiday - it was a paperback too so that was good! I'm back from holiday now and have finished 'The Appeal'. It is OK but just didn't satisfy in the way all, well I'm pretty sure all, previous Grisham legalpap books have. I associate Grisham books with multiple plot layers that weave, intrigue and conclude well. This is written around an interersting issue but not in a particulaly interesting or attention keeping way. It just isn't as good and at times seems to insult my intelligence in a way I never felt before.

So to all the others in the Grisham holiday reading club I'd suggest you get your expectations tuned down a bit: if you are expecting more of the same super lealpap then you'll be left a little empty come the (poor but timely) ending.

Charming and absorbing... , 16 Jul 2008
I found this book lovely, most of all because it engages you so deeply with the characters, especially Florentino. Yes - it does make you wonder how you can feel sympathy for him, since he sleeps with over 500 women (!) while waiting for the love of his life, but I think it's his humanity and romanticism which make you want him to win over Fermina from the start to the end, despite his imperfections. The sweetness of his other habits, such as writing love poems for young sweethearts, and his gentle honesty, made me adore him.

The book will absorb you and give you the feeling you are living under the hot Columbian sun, smelling the smells of the town and walking in the market under the blazing heat, to the extent I almost had culture shock from my bedroom! I read it whilst ill during 1 1/2 days and it was gorgeous. I didn't want it to end, and yet I did, since I had been waiting all that time with Florentino, and found myself holding my breath as his life-changing moment approached.

The language is rich and funny, the story is sometimes surprising (for me, especially when Fermina suddenly decides their youthful madness was all an illusion, and also the very end, which was a bit too perfect, maybe? maybe not.. - don't get me wrong, I was desperate for a happy ending!!) but the book was for me a great read which I couldn't put down, or stop thinking about in between.

If you have a heart, then I defy you not to be moved by this book, especially if you can accept the imperfections of the characters and take the book as a story about love, not the people, but the love between them, which another reviewer described so well. I want to read 100 Years of Solitude now and hope I will enjoy it as much. I'm very happy to have discovered this great author!

A JOYOUS & MOVING MEDITATION ON LOVE, PASSION AND, ABOVE ALL, LIFE, 07 Jul 2008
For some, this is a story in which nothing happens. For me, this is a story in which the only thing that happens is the only thing that happens to us all - life! We are the form and function of our dreams and passions. We live for them, and they for us.

The narrative flows like the river of life mentioned within - the Great Magdalena River as Florentino remembered it - illuminating these passions and dreams, these loves and beliefs, and does so in a non-discriminatory way that humanises all the characters we meet along our way even if their morals are not our own.

We are all human beings who have our own dreams and desires. This book in celebrating the passions that drive the characters we meet within is also a celebration of our own capacity to dream to live and live our dreams, and if that isn't worth recommending it for, then I guess it's time open a can of Carling and stick a Steven Segal movie in the DVD.

Absolutely no connection at all..., 25 Jun 2008
Almost as mystifying as this book itself, is the love many people express for it. Marquez has a glittering reputation and a Nobel Prize on his mantelpiece but, on the basis of this, it is hard to see why. As ever with Marquez, there is a slow pace, characters with similar names, unmentioned time slips, a dash of misogyny, and unrequited lust. Quite why this somehow translates into a masterpiece is beyond me.

The story itself, far from being a tribute to passion, is nonsensical. A young man espies an attractive girl, and becomes besotted with her in a childish, immature way. After initially encouraging him, she spurns him. Contrary to my expectations of the book, it is not a story of unrequited but still-burning passion. He goes around screwing every woman in town (including a 14-year-old), periodically expressing crocodile tears of self-pity. She marries for money and prestige, but doesn't really regret it. Eventually...well, I won't spoil it, but things change at the end of their lives.

Both characters are miserable, self-indulgent, selfish, dull and unable to generate sympathy or empathy from the reader. They have no passion except to fulfil childish whims, conceits and tantrums. This is not love, unrequited or otherwise. This is self-obsessed angst.

The only area where the book succeeds is its' descriptions of the minutiae of a long-lasting marriage - the little accommodations, adjustments and unspoken admirations that keep a relationship on an even keel.

There are characters introduced as if they are important, and never mentioned again. There are whole periods where nothing of consequence happens; these are not compensated by descriptive passages of insight, beauty or exposition - they are just meandering prose. Perhaps it is all lost in translation from the Spanish. Or perhaps it was poor to begin with.

Above all, I resent the implication by many reviewers, that anyone who doesn't like this book is some kind of Dan Brown/John Grisham-loving moron, who is incapable of reading a book where something doesn't blow up every five minutes. For people who love this book, congratulations - but don't belittle those who don't with some kind of pathetic intellectual snobbery. Great writing is writing that connects. This doesn't connect with a vast number of readers, and appears to be written as if the author didn't even try.


Is love worth waiting for?, 10 Apr 2008
Do you ever really get over your first love? Are all