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 Customer Reviews
Maw does it again !, 09 Nov 2008
This was on show at the Good Food Show last week beside the original - Maw Broon's Cookbook. Same kind of nostalgic appeal - days oot ! Cookin' the catch o' the day, some really basic stuff too. Recipes not as old as the first cookbook perhaps, but real Broons humour and great memorabilia tucked in to the pages - a 'must-have' if you got Maw Broon's Cookbook. Compared with other cookbooks on the go this year, this is great value.
Horace writes poetry!, 09 Nov 2008
I gave this book five stars, but the Amazon thing only recorded two for some reason. Anyway, this book has recipes that date to 1940, and use more fresh ingredients than the original Maw Broon Cookbook. I wouldn't say it is 'better' or 'worse' - it is just a very different cookbook, so complements the first one. I use the first one a lot to cook from, as well as just to read, as it is funny and entertaining, and also looks like the cookbooks my mum had from her mother. The design of the second one is equally as strong as the first cookbook, and But an' Ben has poetry from Horace, which is inspirationally funny! But an' Ben has recipes for picnics and barbeques, as well as home made ginger beer. While I might not make ginger beer, it really reminded me of when I used to make it as a kid, with my brother, and the corks exploded off the bottles in the night in our cellar. Very funny. This cookbook is more seasonal, and has the scope to let you use more organic, local produce, than the first one. There is a recipe for perch, which is rather weird, as no one really eats perch anymore - because you can't buy it (fishermen still catch it of course), apart from in the US, but you can substitute salmon or trout for perch. The new cookbook has recipes for whisky marmalade and jams, as well as good soups and some game. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of cookbooks - I currently have over 200 cookbooks and But an' Ben is a strong addition.
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Product Description
The phenomenal acclaim for Alexander McCall Smith's Botswana-set detective series featuring the 'comfortably built' Precious Ramotswe took the publishing world by storm, notably because the gentle, unforced humour of the books was such a contrast with the far grittier fare on offer from most publishers and crime authors. Of course, it's probably true that readers were ready for something a touch more ingratiating --- that's to say, crime books that didn't always end with the walls painted with blood. The latest book in McCall Smith's highly successful career, The Unbearable Lightness of Scones, is, however, not one of his Precious Ramotswe books, but an entry in the pleasing (and undemanding) Scotland Street series, full of the good-natured charm and inventiveness that is the author's hallmark. Bertie, McCall Smith's precocious six-year-old protagonist, is still at odds with his domineering mother, Irene, but enjoying his time as a cub scout. Matthew is struggling with the demands of marriage, while Domenica has her own struggle with the loneliness that accompanies her somewhat arid intellectual lifestyle. The residents of 44 Scotland St offer a kind of Celtic alternative to the humour of Armistead Maupin's delightful San Francisco-set Tales of the City (although unorthodox sexuality has less of a place here!). It's a something of an achievement in the often dark world of the 21st century to deliver lightweight (but intelligent) entertainment such as this. There will always be those who want more uncompromising fare, but those attuned to Alexander McCall Smith's more gentle world view need not hesitate. --Barry Forshaw
Customer Reviews
Maw does it again !, 09 Nov 2008
This was on show at the Good Food Show last week beside the original - Maw Broon's Cookbook. Same kind of nostalgic appeal - days oot ! Cookin' the catch o' the day, some really basic stuff too. Recipes not as old as the first cookbook perhaps, but real Broons humour and great memorabilia tucked in to the pages - a 'must-have' if you got Maw Broon's Cookbook. Compared with other cookbooks on the go this year, this is great value.
Horace writes poetry!, 09 Nov 2008
I gave this book five stars, but the Amazon thing only recorded two for some reason. Anyway, this book has recipes that date to 1940, and use more fresh ingredients than the original Maw Broon Cookbook. I wouldn't say it is 'better' or 'worse' - it is just a very different cookbook, so complements the first one. I use the first one a lot to cook from, as well as just to read, as it is funny and entertaining, and also looks like the cookbooks my mum had from her mother. The design of the second one is equally as strong as the first cookbook, and But an' Ben has poetry from Horace, which is inspirationally funny! But an' Ben has recipes for picnics and barbeques, as well as home made ginger beer. While I might not make ginger beer, it really reminded me of when I used to make it as a kid, with my brother, and the corks exploded off the bottles in the night in our cellar. Very funny. This cookbook is more seasonal, and has the scope to let you use more organic, local produce, than the first one. There is a recipe for perch, which is rather weird, as no one really eats perch anymore - because you can't buy it (fishermen still catch it of course), apart from in the US, but you can substitute salmon or trout for perch. The new cookbook has recipes for whisky marmalade and jams, as well as good soups and some game. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of cookbooks - I currently have over 200 cookbooks and But an' Ben is a strong addition.
weird..., 06 Oct 2008
I've loved 44 scotland street more than any other McCallSmith books but ... After reading that latest/last volume I wondered whether McCallSmith had really written it. Yes, it has some the spirit of the previous books, yet it is totally different. Less witty, less ... something. This one definetly doesn't have it.
There is a huge gap between that volume and the previous (or have I missed something?) and the characters are totally out of character. They're becoming heavy and unreal, which is rather weird for a McCallSmith book.
Of course it is well written (hence the 3*), it still has some and some fantastics chapters (and some very long ones), but something's gone. Maybe it's me...
However I've discussed it with another fan of McCallSmith and she too tought his most recent book-writing was quite different (and it waw not a 44 scotland street novel). So what happened?
The Unberarable lightness of Scones, 29 Sep 2008
I loved the new book of the 44 Scotland series. It is a shame Bertie is still years old. I loved the idea of him bringing Australia into this book as I know Perth Australia well as I lived in the parts that he metnions. I was also brought up in Scotland and I know Edinburgh well so it is home from home for me as I imange myself walking down the streets as well as the chracters. He has an amazing ability to add character to all the characters. My favourites are Bertie Cyril and Angus and although Bruce is a pain he does get his just deserts in this one which he very much deserves. We all know people like the one he metnions and dogs like Cyril it is great how he brings the dog feeling to life as well. Valvona and Crolla of course is a great place in Edinburgh and he brings it to life so well.
It is just as good as the first one how do you do Alexander.
The End of the Street, 04 Sep 2008
May I apologise in advance to the loyal followers? I'm sorry, but I've fallen out of love with Scotland Street. What's changed? After reading all the others, snatching them off the shelves the moment they appeared in hardback, this one crossed a line for me.
I've always found McCall Smith to be fair. If he has a strong view to air, then he will put it in the mind of one of his beautifully developed characters. He'll find a suitable mouthpiece for his opinions. He'll then choose another to give the opposite view, and leave us something to muse upon. So we hear Angus's views on art, balanced by Big Lou's, Dominica's on society, counterpoised by one of her friends', Miss Harmony's and Bertie's mother's opposing ideas on the best way to bring up children, even Cyril the gold-toothed dog's view on ankles, compared with whoever he just bit. Plus we'd get everyone's opinions on Scotland.
The Unbearable Lightness of Scones is a good read because it's more of the same, a few little surprises but no big shocks. Yes, the characters move on a little, but Bertie is still six years old the way that Bart Simpson will always be 10.
Now, I detect more of McCall Smith's own views taking over the pages. Perhaps it's the continuing rant about the Turner Prize, but it's not Angus Lordie who complains about it; it's the writer himself. Yet more punches aimed at the Guardian newspaper; does he never object to The Sun, The Independent or even The Daily Mail?
It reads to me as if Scotland Street has become a bit of a burden to him; perhaps the pressure of continually writing endless instalments about his characters and their little adventures has taken on an unbearable lightness of its own. Alexander McCall Smith books used to be my guilty secret, but I think this will be my last.
More! More! More!, 22 Aug 2008
This latest 44 Scotland Street novel doesn't disappoint except that it is just too difficult to make it last! Once finished, I, as usual, feel bereft - how many months will I have to wait for another in this series or, the equally enjoyable, Sunday Philosophy Club series? If only A McCall-Smith would concentrate on just these two series about wonderful Edinburgh! His subtle social comment and wonderful description of his characters draw the reader into this fascinating city and says a lot about life in the UK (sorry, Scotland) in 2008. Read ALL the books in the series in the order they were written and you will be hooked! MORE! MORE! MORE! soon, please.
Listen to Books on CD, 22 Aug 2008
I have just loved this whole series of books based in Edinburgh. Rather than buy the books, I have been buying them on CD and listening to them when driving along in the car. Narrators with their easy Scottish voices such as Blythe Duff and especially David Rintoul (what a voice!) are so familiar and homely.
The stories are entertaining, interesting and captivating and the characters engaging: young Bertie just can't grow up quickly enough for me: his mother is a pain: Dr Fairbairn makes me cringe: and Bruce is just so awful (Chinos or no Chinos - give me a 'distressed oatmeal sweater' any day!). You find you just can't drag yourself away from the characters, and we all know someone with similar traits.
I can almost taste the Parmesan or Panne Forte from Valvona & Crolla, I would love to spend time in Lou's Coffee Shop, and a drink in the Cumberland Bar with Angus Lordie and Cyril would be 'chust perfecto'.
I do hope when this one comes out on CD that it is once again David Rintoul doing the narration - if you are reading this Alexander McCall Smith - keep them coming!
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Customer Reviews
Maw does it again !, 09 Nov 2008
This was on show at the Good Food Show last week beside the original - Maw Broon's Cookbook. Same kind of nostalgic appeal - days oot ! Cookin' the catch o' the day, some really basic stuff too. Recipes not as old as the first cookbook perhaps, but real Broons humour and great memorabilia tucked in to the pages - a 'must-have' if you got Maw Broon's Cookbook. Compared with other cookbooks on the go this year, this is great value.
Horace writes poetry!, 09 Nov 2008
I gave this book five stars, but the Amazon thing only recorded two for some reason. Anyway, this book has recipes that date to 1940, and use more fresh ingredients than the original Maw Broon Cookbook. I wouldn't say it is 'better' or 'worse' - it is just a very different cookbook, so complements the first one. I use the first one a lot to cook from, as well as just to read, as it is funny and entertaining, and also looks like the cookbooks my mum had from her mother. The design of the second one is equally as strong as the first cookbook, and But an' Ben has poetry from Horace, which is inspirationally funny! But an' Ben has recipes for picnics and barbeques, as well as home made ginger beer. While I might not make ginger beer, it really reminded me of when I used to make it as a kid, with my brother, and the corks exploded off the bottles in the night in our cellar. Very funny. This cookbook is more seasonal, and has the scope to let you use more organic, local produce, than the first one. There is a recipe for perch, which is rather weird, as no one really eats perch anymore - because you can't buy it (fishermen still catch it of course), apart from in the US, but you can substitute salmon or trout for perch. The new cookbook has recipes for whisky marmalade and jams, as well as good soups and some game. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of cookbooks - I currently have over 200 cookbooks and But an' Ben is a strong addition.
weird..., 06 Oct 2008
I've loved 44 scotland street more than any other McCallSmith books but ... After reading that latest/last volume I wondered whether McCallSmith had really written it. Yes, it has some the spirit of the previous books, yet it is totally different. Less witty, less ... something. This one definetly doesn't have it.
There is a huge gap between that volume and the previous (or have I missed something?) and the characters are totally out of character. They're becoming heavy and unreal, which is rather weird for a McCallSmith book.
Of course it is well written (hence the 3*), it still has some and some fantastics chapters (and some very long ones), but something's gone. Maybe it's me...
However I've discussed it with another fan of McCallSmith and she too tought his most recent book-writing was quite different (and it waw not a 44 scotland street novel). So what happened?
The Unberarable lightness of Scones, 29 Sep 2008
I loved the new book of the 44 Scotland series. It is a shame Bertie is still years old. I loved the idea of him bringing Australia into this book as I know Perth Australia well as I lived in the parts that he metnions. I was also brought up in Scotland and I know Edinburgh well so it is home from home for me as I imange myself walking down the streets as well as the chracters. He has an amazing ability to add character to all the characters. My favourites are Bertie Cyril and Angus and although Bruce is a pain he does get his just deserts in this one which he very much deserves. We all know people like the one he metnions and dogs like Cyril it is great how he brings the dog feeling to life as well. Valvona and Crolla of course is a great place in Edinburgh and he brings it to life so well.
It is just as good as the first one how do you do Alexander.
The End of the Street, 04 Sep 2008
May I apologise in advance to the loyal followers? I'm sorry, but I've fallen out of love with Scotland Street. What's changed? After reading all the others, snatching them off the shelves the moment they appeared in hardback, this one crossed a line for me.
I've always found McCall Smith to be fair. If he has a strong view to air, then he will put it in the mind of one of his beautifully developed characters. He'll find a suitable mouthpiece for his opinions. He'll then choose another to give the opposite view, and leave us something to muse upon. So we hear Angus's views on art, balanced by Big Lou's, Dominica's on society, counterpoised by one of her friends', Miss Harmony's and Bertie's mother's opposing ideas on the best way to bring up children, even Cyril the gold-toothed dog's view on ankles, compared with whoever he just bit. Plus we'd get everyone's opinions on Scotland.
The Unbearable Lightness of Scones is a good read because it's more of the same, a few little surprises but no big shocks. Yes, the characters move on a little, but Bertie is still six years old the way that Bart Simpson will always be 10.
Now, I detect more of McCall Smith's own views taking over the pages. Perhaps it's the continuing rant about the Turner Prize, but it's not Angus Lordie who complains about it; it's the writer himself. Yet more punches aimed at the Guardian newspaper; does he never object to The Sun, The Independent or even The Daily Mail?
It reads to me as if Scotland Street has become a bit of a burden to him; perhaps the pressure of continually writing endless instalments about his characters and their little adventures has taken on an unbearable lightness of its own. Alexander McCall Smith books used to be my guilty secret, but I think this will be my last.
More! More! More!, 22 Aug 2008
This latest 44 Scotland Street novel doesn't disappoint except that it is just too difficult to make it last! Once finished, I, as usual, feel bereft - how many months will I have to wait for another in this series or, the equally enjoyable, Sunday Philosophy Club series? If only A McCall-Smith would concentrate on just these two series about wonderful Edinburgh! His subtle social comment and wonderful description of his characters draw the reader into this fascinating city and says a lot about life in the UK (sorry, Scotland) in 2008. Read ALL the books in the series in the order they were written and you will be hooked! MORE! MORE! MORE! soon, please.
Listen to Books on CD, 22 Aug 2008
I have just loved this whole series of books based in Edinburgh. Rather than buy the books, I have been buying them on CD and listening to them when driving along in the car. Narrators with their easy Scottish voices such as Blythe Duff and especially David Rintoul (what a voice!) are so familiar and homely.
The stories are entertaining, interesting and captivating and the characters engaging: young Bertie just can't grow up quickly enough for me: his mother is a pain: Dr Fairbairn makes me cringe: and Bruce is just so awful (Chinos or no Chinos - give me a 'distressed oatmeal sweater' any day!). You find you just can't drag yourself away from the characters, and we all know someone with similar traits.
I can almost taste the Parmesan or Panne Forte from Valvona & Crolla, I would love to spend time in Lou's Coffee Shop, and a drink in the Cumberland Bar with Angus Lordie and Cyril would be 'chust perfecto'.
I do hope when this one comes out on CD that it is once again David Rintoul doing the narration - if you are reading this Alexander McCall Smith - keep them coming!
Perpetually Six, Bertie Shows More Maturity Than the Adults , 23 Nov 2008
Please, if you haven't read any of the novels in the 44 Scotland Street series, you should immediately go order and read 44 Scotland Street and then move on to Espresso Tales and Love Over Scotland before reading The World According to Bertie. Before making that decision, let me explain a little about the series. It began as a serial novel in The Scotsman newspaper. As a result, the writing is broken up into little vignettes that are loosely tied to each other by the relations the characters have with each other.
There's no doubt about it, Bertie Pollock makes this series work. He is the young (perpetually six so far), and blameless, example of what we all aspire to be . . . honest, fair, serious, humble, and considerate. Bertie has a problem (and we have a source of humor) in Bertie's mum, Irene, who wishes to make Bertie into a PC version of what a 21st century boy should be . . . despite Bertie's preferences and instincts to the contrary. As a result, Bertie's bedroom is painted pink, his mother encourages him to play with girls rather than boys, he takes Italian, saxophone, and yoga lessons, and he sees a psychotherapist. Irene also organizes his life . . . over much.
In this book, Irene decides that she wants to encourage Bertie to play with Olive, his nemesis at school. The consequences reverberate throughout the book.
In addition, Bertie's little brother, Ulysses, is someone Irene wants Bertie to have a close relationships with. Bertie finds an unexpected surprise while changing Ulysses' diapers that reveal fundamental flaws in his parents.
Bertie also has questions about the birds and the bees . . . but not the ones you expect.
Another major theme in the book is the genuine concern that the painter Angus Lordie has for his dog, Cyril, who faces legal proceedings for biting. You'll notice that no one in the novel cares for another human being nearly as much.
Big Lou's boyfriend is tied up in a Jacobite group and is devoted to Bonnie Prince Charlie.
After flaming out in London, Bruce is back and quickly puts the touch on an adoring young woman. Pat notices him . . . and finds she still feels excited.
Domenica is finding it very annoying to have her friend Antonia living across the hall. Antonia learns to communicate with her Polish builder in ways she hadn't expected.
Matthew still drinks a lot of coffee and feels like he needs to make changes in his romantic life. He also develops a bit of whimsy when it comes to modern art.
For me, the parts where neither Bertie nor Angus were present didn't work nearly as well. Without a lot of those two, this would have been a four-star book. The humor was aimed in more directions than usual . . . and touched on some very sensitive (and thus, very funny) topics that I didn't expect to find in the book. Two of the scenes involving Irene are ones that I'll laugh about for the rest of my life.
Enjoy!
"Bertie wanted...to be the average boy, but he knew that this would forever be beyond his reach--[because of] his mother.", 11 Nov 2008
(4.5 stars) Alexander McCall Smith always succeeds in charming his readers with warm and humorous tales of almost normal life, lived by people who care about each other and share the values that make life worth living. Like the other novels in this series, the "plot" here consists of episodes in the lives of several loosely connected characters from 44 Scotland Street as they face separate problems in their everyday lives. In real life, real people live their own lives and deal with their own problems, and for McCall Smith and his millions of devoted readers, that is plot enough.
Little Bertie Pollock, six years old, "just wants to be normal." Forced by his domineering mother Irene to go to advanced music classes, yoga, and psychotherapy once a week, he cannot be a rough-and-tumble boy. Irene has even enlisted his help when she pumps breast milk for the baby. In the past Bertie has found some comfort from Cyril, a dog with one gold tooth, who belongs to Angus Lordie, a painter who lives in the building, but Cyril is in the pound, and Angus is in the midst of legal proceedings to reclaim him.
Other characters at 44 Scotland Street and its neighborhood are also dealing with problems. Matthew, a quiet young man who runs an art gallery, hopes that Pat, who works in his gallery, may become fond of him--and he with her--given enough time. Bruce, a devastatingly handsome narcissist with few financial resources, takes advantage of Julia by moving in with her. Big Lou Brown, who runs the local coffee shop, falls in love with a construction worker who wants to return the Stuarts to the throne, and Antonia, who has previously rented Dominica's flat, buys her own place in the building and finds new "love."
McCall Smith's "ordinary" characters with almost-ordinary problems are just absurd enough to keep the reader interested in their lives while remaining just "normal" enough that the reader can smile in recognition at their folly. Far too gentle to be considered a satirist, McCall Smith nevertheless pokes fun at Edinburgh life--the clubs, intellectual pretensions, and social activities--placing his characters in the context of the city and using irony to give their problems perspective and humor. Occasionally, he shares wry asides with the reader so subtly they feel like "throwaways." A guest at the home of an art "connoisseur" suggests, for example, that "Perhaps there are minimalist things here already--it's just that we can't see them."
Ultimately, the characters' domestic problems are resolved--for now--and the reader is left to reflect on the comfortable "old-shoeness" of McCall Smith's novels with their gentle good humor. As one resident of 44 Scotland Street says, "Every so often, in a moment of insight that can be very nearly mystical in its intensity, we see others...in a way which makes us want to cherish them as joint pilgrims on a perilous journey." McCall Smith's characters feel like joint pilgrims with the reader. n Mary Whipple
The Miracle at Speedy Motors (No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency), 2008.
Portuguese Irregular Verbs, first of the Dr. von Igelfeld Entertainments, 2003
The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday: An Isabel Dalhousie Novel, 2008
Love Over Scotland (44 Scotland Street), 2006
Wonderful book - buy the series and enjoy, 26 Oct 2008
This is a delightful book. Alexander McCall Smiths writing is wonderfully observant and you feel that he genuinely cares about his characters. If you are familiar with the No 1 ladies detective series novels and enjoy his writing and obvious love for Botwswana, then you will enjoy his thoughts on his home town of Edinburgh and the superb characters he has created. Start at the first novel 44 Scotland street and work forward to the latest. The characters are all recognisable for those familiar with Edinburgh society. I love the way in which the author can portray what Bertie is thinking as he tries to make sense of his mother Irene with her desire to treat Bertie as a project. From painting his room pink to avoid gender stereotyping, his visits to the psychologist Dr Fairbairn and Irene's attempts to explain his behaviour in Klenian terms, and his friends at the Rudolph Steiner school; the naughty Tofu, Bossy Olive and Larch and Hiawatha. All Bertie wants is to join the cubs and own a penknife!
Bertie and Irene are just two finely drawn characters in this series - whether it is Cyril the dog, Bruce the surveyor or the Glasgow Gangster Lard, all are perfect observations. Read and enjoy!
Gentle satire on self-absorption, 01 Oct 2008
This series has been criticised elsewhere for the characters being too self-absorbed, but for me that is half the pleasure. A lot of people are self-absorbed, and it is fascinating to see that people are often really thinking about themselves and their own concerns when they appear to be thinking something completely different - perhaps most clearly seen in the clash of egos of Bruce and Julia, where Bruce is so caught up in his own self-centred plans that it doesn't occur to him that Julia, in pursuit of 'good stock', is just as single-minded.
My only criticism is that although this is called 'The World According to Bertie' there isn't quite enough of Bertie in it for me, though his essay, from which the title is taken, is well worth waiting for. I would have liked more of Irene and Bertie because Irene is so awful that reading about her always makes me feel that maybe I'm not doing such a bad job as a mother after all!
Better than any soap opera!, 14 Jul 2008
This is the first book I have read of the series, and I found it did not matter that I had not read the others (although it has left me very eager to do so!) It is easy to be drawn into the lives of the characters who are thoroughly believable and far more entertaining than any soap opera!Some of the remarks little Bertie comes out with are absolutely priceless and made me laugh out loud!!
You will enjoy this wherever you come from, but if you have ever lived in or known Edinburgh well (I grew up there) this is a delightful bonus and makes it all the more entertaining and amusing, it captures the 'essence' of Edinburgh life superbly well,and in a gently amusing way.
I would highly recommend this book for its' ability to portray characters and its' pure entertainment value, we all need a bit of light relief these days, and this book certainly gives us that!
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44 Scotland Street
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Alexander McCall Smith;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
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*Amazon: £0.94
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Customer Reviews
Maw does it again !, 09 Nov 2008
This was on show at the Good Food Show last week beside the original - Maw Broon's Cookbook. Same kind of nostalgic appeal - days oot ! Cookin' the catch o' the day, some really basic stuff too. Recipes not as old as the first cookbook perhaps, but real Broons humour and great memorabilia tucked in to the pages - a 'must-have' if you got Maw Broon's Cookbook. Compared with other cookbooks on the go this year, this is great value.
Horace writes poetry!, 09 Nov 2008
I gave this book five stars, but the Amazon thing only recorded two for some reason. Anyway, this book has recipes that date to 1940, and use more fresh ingredients than the original Maw Broon Cookbook. I wouldn't say it is 'better' or 'worse' - it is just a very different cookbook, so complements the first one. I use the first one a lot to cook from, as well as just to read, as it is funny and entertaining, and also looks like the cookbooks my mum had from her mother. The design of the second one is equally as strong as the first cookbook, and But an' Ben has poetry from Horace, which is inspirationally funny! But an' Ben has recipes for picnics and barbeques, as well as home made ginger beer. While I might not make ginger beer, it really reminded me of when I used to make it as a kid, with my brother, and the corks exploded off the bottles in the night in our cellar. Very funny. This cookbook is more seasonal, and has the scope to let you use more organic, local produce, than the first one. There is a recipe for perch, which is rather weird, as no one really eats perch anymore - because you can't buy it (fishermen still catch it of course), apart from in the US, but you can substitute salmon or trout for perch. The new cookbook has recipes for whisky marmalade and jams, as well as good soups and some game. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of cookbooks - I currently have over 200 cookbooks and But an' Ben is a strong addition.
weird..., 06 Oct 2008
I've loved 44 scotland street more than any other McCallSmith books but ... After reading that latest/last volume I wondered whether McCallSmith had really written it. Yes, it has some the spirit of the previous books, yet it is totally different. Less witty, less ... something. This one definetly doesn't have it.
There is a huge gap between that volume and the previous (or have I missed something?) and the characters are totally out of character. They're becoming heavy and unreal, which is rather weird for a McCallSmith book.
Of course it is well written (hence the 3*), it still has some and some fantastics chapters (and some very long ones), but something's gone. Maybe it's me...
However I've discussed it with another fan of McCallSmith and she too tought his most recent book-writing was quite different (and it waw not a 44 scotland street novel). So what happened?
The Unberarable lightness of Scones, 29 Sep 2008
I loved the new book of the 44 Scotland series. It is a shame Bertie is still years old. I loved the idea of him bringing Australia into this book as I know Perth Australia well as I lived in the parts that he metnions. I was also brought up in Scotland and I know Edinburgh well so it is home from home for me as I imange myself walking down the streets as well as the chracters. He has an amazing ability to add character to all the characters. My favourites are Bertie Cyril and Angus and although Bruce is a pain he does get his just deserts in this one which he very much deserves. We all know people like the one he metnions and dogs like Cyril it is great how he brings the dog feeling to life as well. Valvona and Crolla of course is a great place in Edinburgh and he brings it to life so well.
It is just as good as the first one how do you do Alexander.
The End of the Street, 04 Sep 2008
May I apologise in advance to the loyal followers? I'm sorry, but I've fallen out of love with Scotland Street. What's changed? After reading all the others, snatching them off the shelves the moment they appeared in hardback, this one crossed a line for me.
I've always found McCall Smith to be fair. If he has a strong view to air, then he will put it in the mind of one of his beautifully developed characters. He'll find a suitable mouthpiece for his opinions. He'll then choose another to give the opposite view, and leave us something to muse upon. So we hear Angus's views on art, balanced by Big Lou's, Dominica's on society, counterpoised by one of her friends', Miss Harmony's and Bertie's mother's opposing ideas on the best way to bring up children, even Cyril the gold-toothed dog's view on ankles, compared with whoever he just bit. Plus we'd get everyone's opinions on Scotland.
The Unbearable Lightness of Scones is a good read because it's more of the same, a few little surprises but no big shocks. Yes, the characters move on a little, but Bertie is still six years old the way that Bart Simpson will always be 10.
Now, I detect more of McCall Smith's own views taking over the pages. Perhaps it's the continuing rant about the Turner Prize, but it's not Angus Lordie who complains about it; it's the writer himself. Yet more punches aimed at the Guardian newspaper; does he never object to The Sun, The Independent or even The Daily Mail?
It reads to me as if Scotland Street has become a bit of a burden to him; perhaps the pressure of continually writing endless instalments about his characters and their little adventures has taken on an unbearable lightness of its own. Alexander McCall Smith books used to be my guilty secret, but I think this will be my last.
More! More! More!, 22 Aug 2008
This latest 44 Scotland Street novel doesn't disappoint except that it is just too difficult to make it last! Once finished, I, as usual, feel bereft - how many months will I have to wait for another in this series or, the equally enjoyable, Sunday Philosophy Club series? If only A McCall-Smith would concentrate on just these two series about wonderful Edinburgh! His subtle social comment and wonderful description of his characters draw the reader into this fascinating city and says a lot about life in the UK (sorry, Scotland) in 2008. Read ALL the books in the series in the order they were written and you will be hooked! MORE! MORE! MORE! soon, please.
Listen to Books on CD, 22 Aug 2008
I have just loved this whole series of books based in Edinburgh. Rather than buy the books, I have been buying them on CD and listening to them when driving along in the car. Narrators with their easy Scottish voices such as Blythe Duff and especially David Rintoul (what a voice!) are so familiar and homely.
The stories are entertaining, interesting and captivating and the characters engaging: young Bertie just can't grow up quickly enough for me: his mother is a pain: Dr Fairbairn makes me cringe: and Bruce is just so awful (Chinos or no Chinos - give me a 'distressed oatmeal sweater' any day!). You find you just can't drag yourself away from the characters, and we all know someone with similar traits.
I can almost taste the Parmesan or Panne Forte from Valvona & Crolla, I would love to spend time in Lou's Coffee Shop, and a drink in the Cumberland Bar with Angus Lordie and Cyril would be 'chust perfecto'.
I do hope when this one comes out on CD that it is once again David Rintoul doing the narration - if you are reading this Alexander McCall Smith - keep them coming!
Perpetually Six, Bertie Shows More Maturity Than the Adults , 23 Nov 2008
Please, if you haven't read any of the novels in the 44 Scotland Street series, you should immediately go order and read 44 Scotland Street and then move on to Espresso Tales and Love Over Scotland before reading The World According to Bertie. Before making that decision, let me explain a little about the series. It began as a serial novel in The Scotsman newspaper. As a result, the writing is broken up into little vignettes that are loosely tied to each other by the relations the characters have with each other.
There's no doubt about it, Bertie Pollock makes this series work. He is the young (perpetually six so far), and blameless, example of what we all aspire to be . . . honest, fair, serious, humble, and considerate. Bertie has a problem (and we have a source of humor) in Bertie's mum, Irene, who wishes to make Bertie into a PC version of what a 21st century boy should be . . . despite Bertie's preferences and instincts to the contrary. As a result, Bertie's bedroom is painted pink, his mother encourages him to play with girls rather than boys, he takes Italian, saxophone, and yoga lessons, and he sees a psychotherapist. Irene also organizes his life . . . over much.
In this book, Irene decides that she wants to encourage Bertie to play with Olive, his nemesis at school. The consequences reverberate throughout the book.
In addition, Bertie's little brother, Ulysses, is someone Irene wants Bertie to have a close relationships with. Bertie finds an unexpected surprise while changing Ulysses' diapers that reveal fundamental flaws in his parents.
Bertie also has questions about the birds and the bees . . . but not the ones you expect.
Another major theme in the book is the genuine concern that the painter Angus Lordie has for his dog, Cyril, who faces legal proceedings for biting. You'll notice that no one in the novel cares for another human being nearly as much.
Big Lou's boyfriend is tied up in a Jacobite group and is devoted to Bonnie Prince Charlie.
After flaming out in London, Bruce is back and quickly puts the touch on an adoring young woman. Pat notices him . . . and finds she still feels excited.
Domenica is finding it very annoying to have her friend Antonia living across the hall. Antonia learns to communicate with her Polish builder in ways she hadn't expected.
Matthew still drinks a lot of coffee and feels like he needs to make changes in his romantic life. He also develops a bit of whimsy when it comes to modern art.
For me, the parts where neither Bertie nor Angus were present didn't work nearly as well. Without a lot of those two, this would have been a four-star book. The humor was aimed in more directions than usual . . . and touched on some very sensitive (and thus, very funny) topics that I didn't expect to find in the book. Two of the scenes involving Irene are ones that I'll laugh about for the rest of my life.
Enjoy!
"Bertie wanted...to be the average boy, but he knew that this would forever be beyond his reach--[because of] his mother.", 11 Nov 2008
(4.5 stars) Alexander McCall Smith always succeeds in charming his readers with warm and humorous tales of almost normal life, lived by people who care about each other and share the values that make life worth living. Like the other novels in this series, the "plot" here consists of episodes in the lives of several loosely connected characters from 44 Scotland Street as they face separate problems in their everyday lives. In real life, real people live their own lives and deal with their own problems, and for McCall Smith and his millions of devoted readers, that is plot enough.
Little Bertie Pollock, six years old, "just wants to be normal." Forced by his domineering mother Irene to go to advanced music classes, yoga, and psychotherapy once a week, he cannot be a rough-and-tumble boy. Irene has even enlisted his help when she pumps breast milk for the baby. In the past Bertie has found some comfort from Cyril, a dog with one gold tooth, who belongs to Angus Lordie, a painter who lives in the building, but Cyril is in the pound, and Angus is in the midst of legal proceedings to reclaim him.
Other characters at 44 Scotland Street and its neighborhood are also dealing with problems. Matthew, a quiet young man who runs an art gallery, hopes that Pat, who works in his gallery, may become fond of him--and he with her--given enough time. Bruce, a devastatingly handsome narcissist with few financial resources, takes advantage of Julia by moving in with her. Big Lou Brown, who runs the local coffee shop, falls in love with a construction worker who wants to return the Stuarts to the throne, and Antonia, who has previously rented Dominica's flat, buys her own place in the building and finds new "love."
McCall Smith's "ordinary" characters with almost-ordinary problems are just absurd enough to keep the reader interested in their lives while remaining just "normal" enough that the reader can smile in recognition at their folly. Far too gentle to be considered a satirist, McCall Smith nevertheless pokes fun at Edinburgh life--the clubs, intellectual pretensions, and social activities--placing his characters in the context of the city and using irony to give their problems perspective and humor. Occasionally, he shares wry asides with the reader so subtly they feel like "throwaways." A guest at the home of an art "connoisseur" suggests, for example, that "Perhaps there are minimalist things here already--it's just that we can't see them."
Ultimately, the characters' domestic problems are resolved--for now--and the reader is left to reflect on the comfortable "old-shoeness" of McCall Smith's novels with their gentle good humor. As one resident of 44 Scotland Street says, "Every so often, in a moment of insight that can be very nearly mystical in its intensity, we see others...in a way which makes us want to cherish them as joint pilgrims on a perilous journey." McCall Smith's characters feel like joint pilgrims with the reader. n Mary Whipple
The Miracle at Speedy Motors (No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency), 2008.
Portuguese Irregular Verbs, first of the Dr. von Igelfeld Entertainments, 2003
The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday: An Isabel Dalhousie Novel, 2008
Love Over Scotland (44 Scotland Street), 2006
Wonderful book - buy the series and enjoy, 26 Oct 2008
This is a delightful book. Alexander McCall Smiths writing is wonderfully observant and you feel that he genuinely cares about his characters. If you are familiar with the No 1 ladies detective series novels and enjoy his writing and obvious love for Botwswana, then you will enjoy his thoughts on his home town of Edinburgh and the superb characters he has created. Start at the first novel 44 Scotland street and work forward to the latest. The characters are all recognisable for those familiar with Edinburgh society. I love the way in which the author can portray what Bertie is thinking as he tries to make sense of his mother Irene with her desire to treat Bertie as a project. From painting his room pink to avoid gender stereotyping, his visits to the psychologist Dr Fairbairn and Irene's attempts to explain his behaviour in Klenian terms, and his friends at the Rudolph Steiner school; the naughty Tofu, Bossy Olive and Larch and Hiawatha. All Bertie wants is to join the cubs and own a penknife!
Bertie and Irene are just two finely drawn characters in this series - whether it is Cyril the dog, Bruce the surveyor or the Glasgow Gangster Lard, all are perfect observations. Read and enjoy!
Gentle satire on self-absorption, 01 Oct 2008
This series has been criticised elsewhere for the characters being too self-absorbed, but for me that is half the pleasure. A lot of people are self-absorbed, and it is fascinating to see that people are often really thinking about themselves and their own concerns when they appear to be thinking something completely different - perhaps most clearly seen in the clash of egos of Bruce and Julia, where Bruce is so caught up in his own self-centred plans that it doesn't occur to him that Julia, in pursuit of 'good stock', is just as single-minded.
My only criticism is that although this is called 'The World According to Bertie' there isn't quite enough of Bertie in it for me, though his essay, from which the title is taken, is well worth waiting for. I would have liked more of Irene and Bertie because Irene is so awful that reading about her always makes me feel that maybe I'm not doing such a bad job as a mother after all!
Better than any soap opera!, 14 Jul 2008
This is the first book I have read of the series, and I found it did not matter that I had not read the others (although it has left me very eager to do so!) It is easy to be drawn into the lives of the characters who are thoroughly believable and far more entertaining than any soap opera!Some of the remarks little Bertie comes out with are absolutely priceless and made me laugh out loud!!
You will enjoy this wherever you come from, but if you have ever lived in or known Edinburgh well (I grew up there) this is a delightful bonus and makes it all the more entertaining and amusing, it captures the 'essence' of Edinburgh life superbly well,and in a gently amusing way.
I would highly recommend this book for its' ability to portray characters and its' pure entertainment value, we all need a bit of light relief these days, and this book certainly gives us that!
Scotland Street stretto, 16 Nov 2008
The writing in this book is often beautiful, perceptive and amusing, for example Domenica's exchange with Pat regarding Bruce and aesthetics. The insistence on the legal phrase (like "Peploe?") so charming in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series (like "Mr J.L.B. Maketoni") palls after a few chapters. The device of the Scotland Street tunnel (real enough) with its side tunnel (so real?) leads to embarrassment for the Conservative Party. Nothing wrong there either, I suppose. But from what point of view does the author view his characters? Are they warm, human and important to him? Or do they move in the precise niceness of a traditional satire? Which characters in Edinburgh meet with the approval of the author? Are readers to understand that all characters in the book, or types in Edinburgh, are slightly suspect? I seem to recall from some Scots I have known a sardonic streak. The characters in the book all seem to have a legal edge that fits with a legal approach in the writing and requires special handling.
Life as we know it?, 31 Aug 2008
Alexander McCall Smith has the happy knack of writing novels which are light and fun without being trashy - and the short chapters of the Scotland Street novels make them perfect for the daily commute. It's refreshing to read a novel which doesn't depend upon Big Dramatic Events to keep things moving. Instead we just get the minutiae of day-to-day middle-class life in Edinburgh and the everyday thoughts, feelings, doubts and joys of some if its inhabitants. Especially amusing is pushy mother Irene and her unfortunate 'project child' Bertie.
Delightful slice of Edinburgh middle class life, 21 Aug 2008
This is gentle satire of Edinburgh middle-class Edinburgh life and being born and bred in the city I really enjoyed all the familiar landmarks and streets as well as the depictions of the foibles and prejudices of residents. The characters really come to life in the interweaving of the events that bring them together. There are some very funny scenes, especially concerning the child prodigy, Bertie. I'm looking forward to reading the follow-up books in the series to see what happens to them all.
The Emperor's New Clothes...., 22 Jul 2008
More and more I find that the hype for films and books way, way exceed the actual product - and this book is yet another example of this.
Admittedly some sections were entertaining but, on the whole, the writing is dreary and concentrates on a bunch of self-absorbed people. Perhaps a matter of personal taste. I found the characters annoying and trite - a narcissistic former tenant of 44 Scotland Street, daddy's little rich girl, a feeble art gallery owner etc etc. The most interesting character is probably Cyril the dog. Probably would have been more interesting if Cyril had contracted rabies and bitten them all.
My personal opinion and I doubt I will be reading another McCall Smith book.
snooze-fest., 29 Jun 2008
this book was bought for me so i thought i'd better read it, but i wish i hadn't bothered! i very rarely give up on books ut i came close with this one several times. after giving it several "last chances" i wish i'd gone with my first thoughts and not bothered! the only parts i came close to enjoying were the bits about "the child genius" which were mildly amusing, but otherwise a load of rubbish!
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Customer Reviews
Maw does it again !, 09 Nov 2008
This was on show at the Good Food Show last week beside the original - Maw Broon's Cookbook. Same kind of nostalgic appeal - days oot ! Cookin' the catch o' the day, some really basic stuff too. Recipes not as old as the first cookbook perhaps, but real Broons humour and great memorabilia tucked in to the pages - a 'must-have' if you got Maw Broon's Cookbook. Compared with other cookbooks on the go this year, this is great value.
Horace writes poetry!, 09 Nov 2008
I gave this book five stars, but the Amazon thing only recorded two for some reason. Anyway, this book has recipes that date to 1940, and use more fresh ingredients than the original Maw Broon Cookbook. I wouldn't say it is 'better' or 'worse' - it is just a very different cookbook, so complements the first one. I use the first one a lot to cook from, as well as just to read, as it is funny and entertaining, and also looks like the cookbooks my mum had from her mother. The design of the second one is equally as strong as the first cookbook, and But an' Ben has poetry from Horace, which is inspirationally funny! But an' Ben has recipes for picnics and barbeques, as well as home made ginger beer. While I might not make ginger beer, it really reminded me of when I used to make it as a kid, with my brother, and the corks exploded off the bottles in the night in our cellar. Very funny. This cookbook is more seasonal, and has the scope to let you use more organic, local produce, than the first one. There is a recipe for perch, which is rather weird, as no one really eats perch anymore - because you can't buy it (fishermen still catch it of course), apart from in the US, but you can substitute salmon or trout for perch. The new cookbook has recipes for whisky marmalade and jams, as well as good soups and some game. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of cookbooks - I currently have over 200 cookbooks and But an' Ben is a strong addition.
weird..., 06 Oct 2008
I've loved 44 scotland street more than any other McCallSmith books but ... After reading that latest/last volume I wondered whether McCallSmith had really written it. Yes, it has some the spirit of the previous books, yet it is totally different. Less witty, less ... something. This one definetly doesn't have it.
There is a huge gap between that volume and the previous (or have I missed something?) and the characters are totally out of character. They're becoming heavy and unreal, which is rather weird for a McCallSmith book.
Of course it is well written (hence the 3*), it still has some and some fantastics chapters (and some very long ones), but something's gone. Maybe it's me...
However I've discussed it with another fan of McCallSmith and she too tought his most recent book-writing was quite different (and it waw not a 44 scotland street novel). So what happened?
The Unberarable lightness of Scones, 29 Sep 2008
I loved the new book of the 44 Scotland series. It is a shame Bertie is still years old. I loved the idea of him bringing Australia into this book as I know Perth Australia well as I lived in the parts that he metnions. I was also brought up in Scotland and I know Edinburgh well so it is home from home for me as I imange myself walking down the streets as well as the chracters. He has an amazing ability to add character to all the characters. My favourites are Bertie Cyril and Angus and although Bruce is a pain he does get his just deserts in this one which he very much deserves. We all know people like the one he metnions and dogs like Cyril it is great how he brings the dog feeling to life as well. Valvona and Crolla of course is a great place in Edinburgh and he brings it to life so well.
It is just as good as the first one how do you do Alexander.
The End of the Street, 04 Sep 2008
May I apologise in advance to the loyal followers? I'm sorry, but I've fallen out of love with Scotland Street. What's changed? After reading all the others, snatching them off the shelves the moment they appeared in hardback, this one crossed a line for me.
I've always found McCall Smith to be fair. If he has a strong view to air, then he will put it in the mind of one of his beautifully developed characters. He'll find a suitable mouthpiece for his opinions. He'll then choose another to give the opposite view, and leave us something to muse upon. So we hear Angus's views on art, balanced by Big Lou's, Dominica's on society, counterpoised by one of her friends', Miss Harmony's and Bertie's mother's opposing ideas on the best way to bring up children, even Cyril the gold-toothed dog's view on ankles, compared with whoever he just bit. Plus we'd get everyone's opinions on Scotland.
The Unbearable Lightness of Scones is a good read because it's more of the same, a few little surprises but no big shocks. Yes, the characters move on a little, but Bertie is still six years old the way that Bart Simpson will always be 10.
Now, I detect more of McCall Smith's own views taking over the pages. Perhaps it's the continuing rant about the Turner Prize, but it's not Angus Lordie who complains about it; it's the writer himself. Yet more punches aimed at the Guardian newspaper; does he never object to The Sun, The Independent or even The Daily Mail?
It reads to me as if Scotland Street has become a bit of a burden to him; perhaps the pressure of continually writing endless instalments about his characters and their little adventures has taken on an unbearable lightness of its own. Alexander McCall Smith books used to be my guilty secret, but I think this will be my last.
More! More! More!, 22 Aug 2008
This latest 44 Scotland Street novel doesn't disappoint except that it is just too difficult to make it last! Once finished, I, as usual, feel bereft - how many months will I have to wait for another in this series or, the equally enjoyable, Sunday Philosophy Club series? If only A McCall-Smith would concentrate on just these two series about wonderful Edinburgh! His subtle social comment and wonderful description of his characters draw the reader into this fascinating city and says a lot about life in the UK (sorry, Scotland) in 2008. Read ALL the books in the series in the order they were written and you will be hooked! MORE! MORE! MORE! soon, please.
Listen to Books on CD, 22 Aug 2008
I have just loved this whole series of books based in Edinburgh. Rather than buy the books, I have been buying them on CD and listening to them when driving along in the car. Narrators with their easy Scottish voices such as Blythe Duff and especially David Rintoul (what a voice!) are so familiar and homely.
The stories are entertaining, interesting and captivating and the characters engaging: young Bertie just can't grow up quickly enough for me: his mother is a pain: Dr Fairbairn makes me cringe: and Bruce is just so awful (Chinos or no Chinos - give me a 'distressed oatmeal sweater' any day!). You find you just can't drag yourself away from the characters, and we all know someone with similar traits.
I can almost taste the Parmesan or Panne Forte from Valvona & Crolla, I would love to spend time in Lou's Coffee Shop, and a drink in the Cumberland Bar with Angus Lordie and Cyril would be 'chust perfecto'.
I do hope when this one comes out on CD that it is once again David Rintoul doing the narration - if you are reading this Alexander McCall Smith - keep them coming!
Perpetually Six, Bertie Shows More Maturity Than the Adults , 23 Nov 2008
Please, if you haven't read any of the novels in the 44 Scotland Street series, you should immediately go order and read 44 Scotland Street and then move on to Espresso Tales and Love Over Scotland before reading The World According to Bertie. Before making that decision, let me explain a little about the series. It began as a serial novel in The Scotsman newspaper. As a result, the writing is broken up into little vignettes that are loosely tied to each other by the relations the characters have with each other.
There's no doubt about it, Bertie Pollock makes this series work. He is the young (perpetually six so far), and blameless, example of what we all aspire to be . . . honest, fair, serious, humble, and considerate. Bertie has a problem (and we have a source of humor) in Bertie's mum, Irene, who wishes to make Bertie into a PC version of what a 21st century boy should be . . . despite Bertie's preferences and instincts to the contrary. As a result, Bertie's bedroom is painted pink, his mother encourages him to play with girls rather than boys, he takes Italian, saxophone, and yoga lessons, and he sees a psychotherapist. Irene also organizes his life . . . over much.
In this book, Irene decides that she wants to encourage Bertie to play with Olive, his nemesis at school. The consequences reverberate throughout the book.
In addition, Bertie's little brother, Ulysses, is someone Irene wants Bertie to have a close relationships with. Bertie finds an unexpected surprise while changing Ulysses' diapers that reveal fundamental flaws in his parents.
Bertie also has questions about the birds and the bees . . . but not the ones you expect.
Another major theme in the book is the genuine concern that the painter Angus Lordie has for his dog, Cyril, who faces legal proceedings for biting. You'll notice that no one in the novel cares for another human being nearly as much.
Big Lou's boyfriend is tied up in a Jacobite group and is devoted to Bonnie Prince Charlie.
After flaming out in London, Bruce is back and quickly puts the touch on an adoring young woman. Pat notices him . . . and finds she still feels excited.
Domenica is finding it very annoying to have her friend Antonia living across the hall. Antonia learns to communicate with her Polish builder in ways she hadn't expected.
Matthew still drinks a lot of coffee and feels like he needs to make changes in his romantic life. He also develops a bit of whimsy when it comes to modern art.
For me, the parts where neither Bertie nor Angus were present didn't work nearly as well. Without a lot of those two, this would have been a four-star book. The humor was aimed in more directions than usual . . . and touched on some very sensitive (and thus, very funny) topics that I didn't expect to find in the book. Two of the scenes involving Irene are ones that I'll laugh about for the rest of my life.
Enjoy!
"Bertie wanted...to be the average boy, but he knew that this would forever be beyond his reach--[because of] his mother.", 11 Nov 2008
(4.5 stars) Alexander McCall Smith always succeeds in charming his readers with warm and humorous tales of almost normal life, lived by people who care about each other and share the values that make life worth living. Like the other novels in this series, the "plot" here consists of episodes in the lives of several loosely connected characters from 44 Scotland Street as they face separate problems in their everyday lives. In real life, real people live their own lives and deal with their own problems, and for McCall Smith and his millions of devoted readers, that is plot enough.
Little Bertie Pollock, six years old, "just wants to be normal." Forced by his domineering mother Irene to go to advanced music classes, yoga, and psychotherapy once a week, he cannot be a rough-and-tumble boy. Irene has even enlisted his help when she pumps breast milk for the baby. In the past Bertie has found some comfort from Cyril, a dog with one gold tooth, who belongs to Angus Lordie, a painter who lives in the building, but Cyril is in the pound, and Angus is in the midst of legal proceedings to reclaim him.
Other characters at 44 Scotland Street and its neighborhood are also dealing with problems. Matthew, a quiet young man who runs an art gallery, hopes that Pat, who works in his gallery, may become fond of him--and he with her--given enough time. Bruce, a devastatingly handsome narcissist with few financial resources, takes advantage of Julia by moving in with her. Big Lou Brown, who runs the local coffee shop, falls in love with a construction worker who wants to return the Stuarts to the throne, and Antonia, who has previously rented Dominica's flat, buys her own place in the building and finds new "love."
McCall Smith's "ordinary" characters with almost-ordinary problems are just absurd enough to keep the reader interested in their lives while remaining just "normal" enough that the reader can smile in recognition at their folly. Far too gentle to be considered a satirist, McCall Smith nevertheless pokes fun at Edinburgh life--the clubs, intellectual pretensions, and social activities--placing his characters in the context of the city and using irony to give their problems perspective and humor. Occasionally, he shares wry asides with the reader so subtly they feel like "throwaways." A guest at the home of an art "connoisseur" suggests, for example, that "Perhaps there are minimalist things here already--it's just that we can't see them."
Ultimately, the characters' domestic problems are resolved--for now--and the reader is left to reflect on the comfortable "old-shoeness" of McCall Smith's novels with their gentle good humor. As one resident of 44 Scotland Street says, "Every so often, in a moment of insight that can be very nearly mystical in its intensity, we see others...in a way which makes us want to cherish them as joint pilgrims on a perilous journey." McCall Smith's characters feel like joint pilgrims with the reader. n Mary Whipple
The Miracle at Speedy Motors (No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency), 2008.
Portuguese Irregular Verbs, first of the Dr. von Igelfeld Entertainments, 2003
The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday: An Isabel Dalhousie Novel, 2008
Love Over Scotland (44 Scotland Street), 2006
Wonderful book - buy the series and enjoy, 26 Oct 2008
This is a delightful book. Alexander McCall Smiths writing is wonderfully observant and you feel that he genuinely cares about his characters. If you are familiar with the No 1 ladies detective series novels and enjoy his writing and obvious love for Botwswana, then you will enjoy his thoughts on his home town of Edinburgh and the superb characters he has created. Start at the first novel 44 Scotland street and work forward to the latest. The characters are all recognisable for those familiar with Edinburgh society. I love the way in which the author can portray what Bertie is thinking as he tries to make sense of his mother Irene with her desire to treat Bertie as a project. From painting his room pink to avoid gender stereotyping, his visits to the psychologist Dr Fairbairn and Irene's attempts to explain his behaviour in Klenian terms, and his friends at the Rudolph Steiner school; the naughty Tofu, Bossy Olive and Larch and Hiawatha. All Bertie wants is to join the cubs and own a penknife!
Bertie and Irene are just two finely drawn characters in this series - whether it is Cyril the dog, Bruce the surveyor or the Glasgow Gangster Lard, all are perfect observations. Read and enjoy!
Gentle satire on self-absorption, 01 Oct 2008
This series has been criticised elsewhere for the characters being too self-absorbed, but for me that is half the pleasure. A lot of people are self-absorbed, and it is fascinating to see that people are often really thinking about themselves and their own concerns when they appear to be thinking something completely different - perhaps most clearly seen in the clash of egos of Bruce and Julia, where Bruce is so caught up in his own self-centred plans that it doesn't occur to him that Julia, in pursuit of 'good stock', is just as single-minded.
My only criticism is that although this is called 'The World According to Bertie' there isn't quite enough of Bertie in it for me, though his essay, from which the title is taken, is well worth waiting for. I would have liked more of Irene and Bertie because Irene is so awful that reading about her always makes me feel that maybe I'm not doing such a bad job as a mother after all!
Better than any soap opera!, 14 Jul 2008
This is the first book I have read of the series, and I found it did not matter that I had not read the others (although it has left me very eager to do so!) It is easy to be drawn into the lives of the characters who are thoroughly believable and far more entertaining than any soap opera!Some of the remarks little Bertie comes out with are absolutely priceless and made me laugh out loud!!
You will enjoy this wherever you come from, but if you have ever lived in or known Edinburgh well (I grew up there) this is a delightful bonus and makes it all the more entertaining and amusing, it captures the 'essence' of Edinburgh life superbly well,and in a gently amusing way.
I would highly recommend this book for its' ability to portray characters and its' pure entertainment value, we all need a bit of light relief these days, and this book certainly gives us that!
Scotland Street stretto, 16 Nov 2008
The writing in this book is often beautiful, perceptive and amusing, for example Domenica's exchange with Pat regarding Bruce and aesthetics. The insistence on the legal phrase (like "Peploe?") so charming in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series (like "Mr J.L.B. Maketoni") palls after a few chapters. The device of the Scotland Street tunnel (real enough) with its side tunnel (so real?) leads to embarrassment for the Conservative Party. Nothing wrong there either, I suppose. But from what point of view does the author view his characters? Are they warm, human and important to him? Or do they move in the precise niceness of a traditional satire? Which characters in Edinburgh meet with the approval of the author? Are readers to understand that all characters in the book, or types in Edinburgh, are slightly suspect? I seem to recall from some Scots I have known a sardonic streak. The characters in the book all seem to have a legal edge that fits with a legal approach in the writing and requires special handling.
Life as we know it?, 31 Aug 2008
Alexander McCall Smith has the happy knack of writing novels which are light and fun without being trashy - and the short chapters of the Scotland Street novels make them perfect for the daily commute. It's refreshing to read a novel which doesn't depend upon Big Dramatic Events to keep things moving. Instead we just get the minutiae of day-to-day middle-class life in Edinburgh and the everyday thoughts, feelings, doubts and joys of some if its inhabitants. Especially amusing is pushy mother Irene and her unfortunate 'project child' Bertie.
Delightful slice of Edinburgh middle class life, 21 Aug 2008
This is gentle satire of Edinburgh middle-class Edinburgh life and being born and bred in the city I really enjoyed all the familiar landmarks and streets as well as the depictions of the foibles and prejudices of residents. The characters really come to life in the interweaving of the events that bring them together. There are some very funny scenes, especially concerning the child prodigy, Bertie. I'm looking forward to reading the follow-up books in the series to see what happens to them all.
The Emperor's New Clothes...., 22 Jul 2008
More and more I find that the hype for films and books way, way exceed the actual product - and this book is yet another example of this.
Admittedly some sections were entertaining but, on the whole, the writing is dreary and concentrates on a bunch of self-absorbed people. Perhaps a matter of personal taste. I found the characters annoying and trite - a narcissistic former tenant of 44 Scotland Street, daddy's little rich girl, a feeble art gallery owner etc etc. The most interesting character is probably Cyril the dog. Probably would have been more interesting if Cyril had contracted rabies and bitten them all.
My personal opinion and I doubt I will be reading another McCall Smith book.
snooze-fest., 29 Jun 2008
this book was bought for me so i thought i'd better read it, but i wish i hadn't bothered! i very rarely give up on books ut i came close with this one several times. after giving it several "last chances" i wish i'd gone with my first thoughts and not bothered! the only parts i came close to enjoying were the bits about "the child genius" which were mildly amusing, but otherwise a load of rubbish!
sometimes it's better not to revisit old friends, 07 Nov 2008
I loved this book, loved it, it was fantastic, the best thing I had ever read, Iain Banks was the greatest living writer........but..............
that was 16 years ago and I was but still a teenager.
Now safely in my thirties and having had my eyes opened to the big, wild, cruel world, I decided to read it again.
Was it as good as I remembered? - Well, sadly no.
Was it as shocking as I remembered? - no.
To be honest, the plot struck me as paper thin, the graphic violence a little dull and the shock ending simply not that shocking (obviously I knew the ending, but my wife read it for the first time before I re read it and she didnt find it particularly shocking either, nor did she flinch at the violence), and why didnt I notice that Banks writing style is....well, a little boring? lacking in a little bit of flair?
It probably says a lot more about the state of the world and society that this book is no longer as shocking and violent as it was once considered, than it does about the book itself.
The fact is that books like Silence of the Lambs and TV programmes like Messiah are a hell of a lot more graphic and shocking than this and have numbed society to such an extent that this book no longer stands out from the crowd of crime/thriller/horror books.
I wish I hadnt re read it, then I would still hold it dear to my heart.
Still a decent book (and probably still a great book if youre a teenager), but now, sadly, a middle of the road horror book rather than the groundbreaking gothic debut it once was.
Bug Sprayed, 19 Oct 2008
This novel apparently caused controversy when first published in 1984. Either reviewers couldn't handle its sadism and gore (because they clearly were not aware of a genre called "horror" until this book landed on their desks) or they thought Banks was a brand new Scottish voice that needed to be heard.
A teenage boy lives on a deserted island with his father, disconnected from the Scottish mainland and civil society. The boy, Frank, has an older brother locked away in a mad house, and a history of mysterious deaths in his family's past. As a narrator, he's a typical teenage boy, with obsessions of all kinds: weapons, violence, punk music and sex (or the lack of it). But can he be believed? None of the reviews I've read seem to have picked up on the general absurdities in Frank's narrative, to the point where it makes it hard to separate what is real and what is exageration, bravado. It's a shame, too, that the main plot twist in the end (and the book's original selling point) is so obvious for any modern reader used to western life. It doesn't help that Frank feels the need to explain the plot twist either, taking away the surprise's intended punch and deflating what could have been a neat slice of horror.
Black comedy at its best , 26 Sep 2008
To enjoy this book you need an appreciation of black comedy. Well written in a tongue in cheek manner and very easy to read. The 'wasp factory' of the title is a very creative invention. Worryingly though, one can easily imagine that somewhere a character like the anti-hero of the story really exists! I can see that this is a book that you either like or loathe, but those who don't like it probably didn't get the joke!
Graphically gory, but good writing, 12 Jul 2008
Full of graphically described and inventive unpleasantness, the Wasp Factory is not a pleasant read and requires a strong stomach. I couldn't bring myself to read all of it as I'm not a fan of pointless gore. However, it is well written and I've given it three stars as it would be a good read for someone who likes this sort of thing.
If you like horror films or the type of shows that feature lots of explicit gore, then you'll probably enjoy this. A reviewer describes it as the 'literary equivalent of a video nasty', which is quite an apt description. I would think it would appeal more to men than women, on the whole, and younger men in particular.
Banks is a good writer and I would read another of his books, but only if it had less of a focus on torturing small animals than this one does.
Drivel. Don't believe the hype., 20 Jun 2008
Since this book was first published I deliberately ignored the hype and didn't buy the book. Having read some of his science fiction books I thought it time to give it a go and on the strength of all the 5 star reviews finally bought it. What a disappointment. A book full of caricatures and stereotypes who meander through a "plot" that is clearly a collection of idle thoughts and drink or drug fuelled "great ideas" supposedly aimed at producing a feeling of horror in us all. From the ridiculous and improbable murders (particularly the one with the kite)to the poor renditions of OCD, autism and Asbergers Syndrome I am amazed the publishers even took it up. It might appeal to a ten year old but even they would feel let down by the pathetic attempt at a twist at the end. Awful. Avoid it unless you enjoy feeling short changed.
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Customer Reviews
Maw does it again !, 09 Nov 2008
This was on show at the Good Food Show last week beside the original - Maw Broon's Cookbook. Same kind of nostalgic appeal - days oot ! Cookin' the catch o' the day, some really basic stuff too. Recipes not as old as the first cookbook perhaps, but real Broons humour and great memorabilia tucked in to the pages - a 'must-have' if you got Maw Broon's Cookbook. Compared with other cookbooks on the go this year, this is great value.
Horace writes poetry!, 09 Nov 2008
I gave this book five stars, but the Amazon thing only recorded two for some reason. Anyway, this book has recipes that date to 1940, and use more fresh ingredients than the original Maw Broon Cookbook. I wouldn't say it is 'better' or 'worse' - it is just a very different cookbook, so complements the first one. I use the first one a lot to cook from, as well as just to read, as it is funny and entertaining, and also looks like the cookbooks my mum had from her mother. The design of the second one is equally as strong as the first cookbook, and But an' Ben has poetry from Horace, which is inspirationally funny! But an' Ben has recipes for picnics and barbeques, as well as home made ginger beer. While I might not make ginger beer, it really reminded me of when I used to make it as a kid, with my brother, and the corks exploded off the bottles in the night in our cellar. Very funny. This cookbook is more seasonal, and has the scope to let you use more organic, local produce, than the first one. There is a recipe for perch, which is rather weird, as no one really eats perch anymore - because you can't buy it (fishermen still catch it of course), apart from in the US, but you can substitute salmon or trout for perch. The new cookbook has recipes for whisky marmalade and jams, as well as good soups and some game. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of cookbooks - I currently have over 200 cookbooks and But an' Ben is a strong addition.
weird..., 06 Oct 2008
I've loved 44 scotland street more than any other McCallSmith books but ... After reading that latest/last volume I wondered whether McCallSmith had really written it. Yes, it has some the spirit of the previous books, yet it is totally different. Less witty, less ... something. This one definetly doesn't have it.
There is a huge gap between that volume and the previous (or have I missed something?) and the characters are totally out of character. They're becoming heavy and unreal, which is rather weird for a McCallSmith book.
Of course it is well written (hence the 3*), it still has some and some fantastics chapters (and some very long ones), but something's gone. Maybe it's me...
However I've discussed it with another fan of McCallSmith and she too tought his most recent book-writing was quite different (and it waw not a 44 scotland street novel). So what happened?
The Unberarable lightness of Scones, 29 Sep 2008
I loved the new book of the 44 Scotland series. It is a shame Bertie is still years old. I loved the idea of him bringing Australia into this book as I know Perth Australia well as I lived in the parts that he metnions. I was also brought up in Scotland and I know Edinburgh well so it is home from home for me as I imange myself walking down the streets as well as the chracters. He has an amazing ability to add character to all the characters. My favourites are Bertie Cyril and Angus and although Bruce is a pain he does get his just deserts in this one which he very much deserves. We all know people like the one he metnions and dogs like Cyril it is great how he brings the dog feeling to life as well. Valvona and Crolla of course is a great place in Edinburgh and he brings it to life so well.
It is just as good as the first one how do you do Alexander.
The End of the Street, 04 Sep 2008
May I apologise in advance to the loyal followers? I'm sorry, but I've fallen out of love with Scotland Street. What's changed? After reading all the others, snatching them off the shelves the moment they appeared in hardback, this one crossed a line for me.
I've always found McCall Smith to be fair. If he has a strong view to air, then he will put it in the mind of one of his beautifully developed characters. He'll find a suitable mouthpiece for his opinions. He'll then choose another to give the opposite view, and leave us something to muse upon. So we hear Angus's views on art, balanced by Big Lou's, Dominica's on society, counterpoised by one of her friends', Miss Harmony's and Bertie's mother's opposing ideas on the best way to bring up children, even Cyril the gold-toothed dog's view on ankles, compared with whoever he just bit. Plus we'd get everyone's opinions on Scotland.
The Unbearable Lightness of Scones is a good read because it's more of the same, a few little surprises but no big shocks. Yes, the characters move on a little, but Bertie is still six years old the way that Bart Simpson will always be 10.
Now, I detect more of McCall Smith's own views taking over the pages. Perhaps it's the continuing rant about the Turner Prize, but it's not Angus Lordie who complains about it; it's the writer himself. Yet more punches aimed at the Guardian newspaper; does he never object to The Sun, The Independent or even The Daily Mail?
It reads to me as if Scotland Street has become a bit of a burden to him; perhaps the pressure of continually writing endless instalments about his characters and their little adventures has taken on an unbearable lightness of its own. Alexander McCall Smith books used to be my guilty secret, but I think this will be my last.
More! More! More!, 22 Aug 2008
This latest 44 Scotland Street novel doesn't disappoint except that it is just too difficult to make it last! Once finished, I, as usual, feel bereft - how many months will I have to wait for another in this series or, the equally enjoyable, Sunday Philosophy Club series? If only A McCall-Smith would concentrate on just these two series about wonderful Edinburgh! His subtle social comment and wonderful description of his characters draw the reader into this fascinating city and says a lot about life in the UK (sorry, Scotland) in 2008. Read ALL the books in the series in the order they were written and you will be hooked! MORE! MORE! MORE! soon, please.
Listen to Books on CD, 22 Aug 2008
I have just loved this whole series of books based in Edinburgh. Rather than buy the books, I have been buying them on CD and listening to them when driving along in the car. Narrators with their easy Scottish voices such as Blythe Duff and especially David Rintoul (what a voice!) are so familiar and homely.
The stories are entertaining, interesting and captivating and the characters engaging: young Bertie just can't grow up quickly enough for me: his mother is a pain: Dr Fairbairn makes me cringe: and Bruce is just so awful (Chinos or no Chinos - give me a 'distressed oatmeal sweater' any day!). You find you just can't drag yourself away from the characters, and we all know someone with similar traits.
I can almost taste the Parmesan or Panne Forte from Valvona & Crolla, I would love to spend time in Lou's Coffee Shop, and a drink in the Cumberland Bar with Angus Lordie and Cyril would be 'chust perfecto'.
I do hope when this one comes out on CD that it is once again David Rintoul doing the narration - if you are reading this Alexander McCall Smith - keep them coming!
Perpetually Six, Bertie Shows More Maturity Than the Adults , 23 Nov 2008
Please, if you haven't read any of the novels in the 44 Scotland Street series, you should immediately go order and read 44 Scotland Street and then move on to Espresso Tales and Love Over Scotland before reading The World According to Bertie. Before making that decision, let me explain a little about the series. It began as a serial novel in The Scotsman newspaper. As a result, the writing is broken up into little vignettes that are loosely tied to each other by the relations the characters have with each other.
There's no doubt about it, Bertie Pollock makes this series work. He is the young (perpetually six so far), and blameless, example of what we all aspire to be . . . honest, fair, serious, humble, and considerate. Bertie has a problem (and we have a source of humor) in Bertie's mum, Irene, who wishes to make Bertie into a PC version of what a 21st century boy should be . . . despite Bertie's preferences and instincts to the contrary. As a result, Bertie's bedroom is painted pink, his mother encourages him to play with girls rather than boys, he takes Italian, saxophone, and yoga lessons, and he sees a psychotherapist. Irene also organizes his life . . . over much.
In this book, Irene decides that she wants to encourage Bertie to play with Olive, his nemesis at school. The consequences reverberate throughout the book.
In addition, Bertie's little brother, Ulysses, is someone Irene wants Bertie to have a close relationships with. Bertie finds an unexpected surprise while changing Ulysses' diapers that reveal fundamental flaws in his parents.
Bertie also has questions about the birds and the bees . . . but not the ones you expect.
Another major theme in the book is the genuine concern that the painter Angus Lordie has for his dog, Cyril, who faces legal proceedings for biting. You'll notice that no one in the novel cares for another human being nearly as much.
Big Lou's boyfriend is tied up in a Jacobite group and is devoted to Bonnie Prince Charlie.
After flaming out in London, Bruce is back and quickly puts the touch on an adoring young woman. Pat notices him . . . and finds she still feels excited.
Domenica is finding it very annoying to have her friend Antonia living across the hall. Antonia learns to communicate with her Polish builder in ways she hadn't expected.
Matthew still drinks a lot of coffee and feels like he needs to make changes in his romantic life. He also develops a bit of whimsy when it comes to modern art.
For me, the parts where neither Bertie nor Angus were present didn't work nearly as well. Without a lot of those two, this would have been a four-star book. The humor was aimed in more directions than usual . . . and touched on some very sensitive (and thus, very funny) topics that I didn't expect to find in the book. Two of the scenes involving Irene are ones that I'll laugh about for the rest of my life.
Enjoy!
"Bertie wanted...to be the average boy, but he knew that this would forever be beyond his reach--[because of] his mother.", 11 Nov 2008
(4.5 stars) Alexander McCall Smith always succeeds in charming his readers with warm and humorous tales of almost normal life, lived by people who care about each other and share the values that make life worth living. Like the other novels in this series, the "plot" here consists of episodes in the lives of several loosely connected characters from 44 Scotland Street as they face separate problems in their everyday lives. In real life, real people live their own lives and deal with their own problems, and for McCall Smith and his millions of devoted readers, that is plot enough.
Little Bertie Pollock, six years old, "just wants to be normal." Forced by his domineering mother Irene to go to advanced music classes, yoga, and psychotherapy once a week, he cannot be a rough-and-tumble boy. Irene has even enlisted his help when she pumps breast milk for the baby. In the past Bertie has found some comfort from Cyril, a dog with one gold tooth, who belongs to Angus Lordie, a painter who lives in the building, but Cyril is in the pound, and Angus is in the midst of legal proceedings to reclaim him.
Other characters at 44 Scotland Street and its neighborhood are also dealing with problems. Matthew, a quiet young man who runs an art gallery, hopes that Pat, who works in his gallery, may become fond of him--and he with her--given enough time. Bruce, a devastatingly handsome narcissist with few financial resources, takes advantage of Julia by moving in with her. Big Lou Brown, who runs the local coffee shop, falls in love with a construction worker who wants to return the Stuarts to the throne, and Antonia, who has previously rented Dominica's flat, buys her own place in the building and finds new "love."
McCall Smith's "ordinary" characters with almost-ordinary problems are just absurd enough to keep the reader interested in their lives while remaining just "normal" enough that the reader can smile in recognition at their folly. Far too gentle to be considered a satirist, McCall Smith nevertheless pokes fun at Edinburgh life--the clubs, intellectual pretensions, and social activities--placing his characters in the context of the city and using irony to give their problems perspective and humor. Occasionally, he shares wry asides with the reader so subtly they feel like "throwaways." A guest at the home of an art "connoisseur" suggests, for example, that "Perhaps there are minimalist things here already--it's just that we can't see them."
Ultimately, the characters' domestic problems are resolved--for now--and the reader is left to reflect on the comfortable "old-shoeness" of McCall Smith's novels with their gentle good humor. As one resident of 44 Scotland Street says, "Every so often, in a moment of insight that can be very nearly mystical in its intensity, we see others...in a way which makes us want to cherish them as joint pilgrims on a perilous journey." McCall Smith's characters feel like joint pilgrims with the reader. n Mary Whipple
The Miracle at Speedy Motors (No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency), 2008.
Portuguese Irregular Verbs, first of the Dr. von Igelfeld Entertainments, 2003
The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday: An Isabel Dalhousie Novel, 2008
Love Over Scotland (44 Scotland Street), 2006
Wonderful book - buy the series and enjoy, 26 Oct 2008
This is a delightful book. Alexander McCall Smiths writing is wonderfully observant and you feel that he genuinely cares about his characters. If you are familiar with the No 1 ladies detective series novels and enjoy his writing and obvious love for Botwswana, then you will enjoy his thoughts on his home town of Edinburgh and the superb characters he has created. Start at the first novel 44 Scotland street and work forward to the latest. The characters are all recognisable for those familiar with Edinburgh society. I love the way in which the author can portray what Bertie is thinking as he tries to make sense of his mother Irene with her desire to treat Bertie as a project. From painting his room pink to avoid gender stereotyping, his visits to the psychologist Dr Fairbairn and Irene's attempts to explain his behaviour in Klenian terms, and his friends at the Rudolph Steiner school; the naughty Tofu, Bossy Olive and Larch and Hiawatha. All Bertie wants is to join the cubs and own a penknife!
Bertie and Irene are just two finely drawn characters in this series - whether it is Cyril the dog, Bruce the surveyor or the Glasgow Gangster Lard, all are perfect observations. Read and enjoy!
Gentle satire on self-absorption, 01 Oct 2008
This series has been criticised elsewhere for the characters being too self-absorbed, but for me that is half the pleasure. A lot of people are self-absorbed, and it is fascinating to see that people are often really thinking about themselves and their own concerns when they appear to be thinking something completely different - perhaps most clearly seen in the clash of egos of Bruce and Julia, where Bruce is so caught up in his own self-centred plans that it doesn't occur to him that Julia, in pursuit of 'good stock', is just as single-minded.
My only criticism is that although this is called 'The World According to Bertie' there isn't quite enough of Bertie in it for me, though his essay, from which the title is taken, is well worth waiting for. I would have liked more of Irene and Bertie because Irene is so awful that reading about her always makes me feel that maybe I'm not doing such a bad job as a mother after all!
Better than any soap opera!, 14 Jul 2008
This is the first book I have read of the series, and I found it did not matter that I had not read the others (although it has left me very eager to do so!) It is easy to be drawn into the lives of the characters who are thoroughly believable and far more entertaining than any soap opera!Some of the remarks little Bertie comes out with are absolutely priceless and made me laugh out loud!!
You will enjoy this wherever you come from, but if you have ever lived in or known Edinburgh well (I grew up there) this is a delightful bonus and makes it all the more entertaining and amusing, it captures the 'essence' of Edinburgh life superbly well,and in a gently amusing way.
I would highly recommend this book for its' ability to portray characters and its' pure entertainment value, we all need a bit of light relief these days, and this book certainly gives us that!
Scotland Street stretto, 16 Nov 2008
The writing in this book is often beautiful, perceptive and amusing, for example Domenica's exchange with Pat regarding Bruce and aesthetics. The insistence on the legal phrase (like "Peploe?") so charming in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series (like "Mr J.L.B. Maketoni") palls after a few chapters. The device of the Scotland Street tunnel (real enough) with its side tunnel (so real?) leads to embarrassment for the Conservative Party. Nothing wrong there either, I suppose. But from what point of view does the author view his characters? Are they warm, human and important to him? Or do they move in the precise niceness of a traditional satire? Which characters in Edinburgh meet with the approval of the author? Are readers to understand that all characters in the book, or types in Edinburgh, are slightly suspect? I seem to recall from some Scots I have known a sardonic streak. The characters in the book all seem to have a legal edge that fits with a legal approach in the writing and requires special handling.
Life as we know it?, 31 Aug 2008
Alexander McCall Smith has the happy knack of writing novels which are light and fun without being trashy - and the short chapters of the Scotland Street novels make them perfect for the daily commute. It's refreshing to read a novel which doesn't depend upon Big Dramatic Events to keep things moving. Instead we just get the minutiae of day-to-day middle-class life in Edinburgh and the everyday thoughts, feelings, doubts and joys of some if its inhabitants. Especially amusing is pushy mother Irene and her unfortunate 'project child' Bertie.
Delightful slice of Edinburgh middle class life, 21 Aug 2008
This is gentle satire of Edinburgh middle-class Edinburgh life and being born and bred in the city I really enjoyed all the familiar landmarks and streets as well as the depictions of the foibles and prejudices of residents. The characters really come to life in the interweaving of the events that bring them together. There are some very funny scenes, especially concerning the child prodigy, Bertie. I'm looking forward to reading the follow-up books in the series to see what happens to them all.
The Emperor's New Clothes...., 22 Jul 2008
More and more I find that the hype for films and books way, way exceed the actual product - and this book is yet another example of this.
Admittedly some sections were entertaining but, on the whole, the writing is dreary and concentrates on a bunch of self-absorbed people. Perhaps a matter of personal taste. I found the characters annoying and trite - a narcissistic former tenant of 44 Scotland Street, daddy's little rich girl, a feeble art gallery owner etc etc. The most interesting character is probably Cyril the dog. Probably would have been more interesting if Cyril had contracted rabies and bitten them all.
My personal opinion and I doubt I will be reading another McCall Smith book.
snooze-fest., 29 Jun 2008
this book was bought for me so i thought i'd better read it, but i wish i hadn't bothered! i very rarely give up on books ut i came close with this one several times. after giving it several "last chances" i wish i'd gone with my first thoughts and not bothered! the only parts i came close to enjoying were the bits about "the child genius" which were mildly amusing, but otherwise a load of rubbish!
sometimes it's better not to revisit old friends, 07 Nov 2008
I loved this book, loved it, it was fantastic, the best thing I had ever read, Iain Banks was the greatest living writer........but..............
that was 16 years ago and I was but still a teenager.
Now safely in my thirties and having had my eyes opened to the big, wild, cruel world, I decided to read it again.
Was it as good as I remembered? - Well, sadly no.
Was it as shocking as I remembered? - no.
To be honest, the plot struck me as paper thin, the graphic violence a little dull and the shock ending simply not that shocking (obviously I knew the ending, but my wife read it for the first time before I re read it and she didnt find it particularly shocking either, nor did she flinch at the violence), and why didnt I notice that Banks writing style is....well, a little boring? lacking in a little bit of flair?
It probably says a lot more about the state of the world and society that this book is no longer as shocking and violent as it was once considered, than it does about the book itself.
The fact is that books like Silence of the Lambs and TV programmes like Messiah are a hell of a lot more graphic and shocking than this and have numbed society to such an extent that this book no longer stands out from the crowd of crime/thriller/horror books.
I wish I hadnt re read it, then I would still hold it dear to my heart.
Still a decent book (and probably still a great book if youre a teenager), but now, sadly, a middle of the road horror book rather than the groundbreaking gothic debut it once was.
Bug Sprayed, 19 Oct 2008
This novel apparently caused controversy when first published in 1984. Either reviewers couldn't handle its sadism and gore (because they clearly were not aware of a genre called "horror" until this book landed on their desks) or they thought Banks was a brand new Scottish voice that needed to be heard.
A teenage boy lives on a deserted island with his father, disconnected from the Scottish mainland and civil society. The boy, Frank, has an older brother locked away in a mad house, and a history of mysterious deaths in his family's past. As a narrator, he's a typical teenage boy, with obsessions of all kinds: weapons, violence, punk music and sex (or the lack of it). But can he be believed? None of the reviews I've read seem to have picked up on the general absurdities in Frank's narrative, to the point where it makes it hard to separate what is real and what is exageration, bravado. It's a shame, too, that the main plot twist in the end (and the book's original selling point) is so obvious for any modern reader used to western life. It doesn't help that Frank feels the need to explain the plot twist either, taking away the surprise's intended punch and deflating what could have been a neat slice of horror.
Black comedy at its best , 26 Sep 2008
To enjoy this book you need an appreciation of black comedy. Well written in a tongue in cheek manner and very easy to read. The 'wasp factory' of the title is a very creative invention. Worryingly though, one can easily imagine that somewhere a character like the anti-hero of the story really exists! I can see that this is a book that you either like or loathe, but those who don't like it probably didn't get the joke!
Graphically gory, but good writing, 12 Jul 2008
Full of graphically described and inventive unpleasantness, the Wasp Factory is not a pleasant read and requires a strong stomach. I couldn't bring myself to read all of it as I'm not a fan of pointless gore. However, it is well written and I've given it three stars as it would be a good read for someone who likes this sort of thing.
If you like horror films or the type of shows that feature lots of explicit gore, then you'll probably enjoy this. A reviewer describes it as the 'literary equivalent of a | | |