The Island

Victoria Heslip.

Alexis Fielding feels there is something wrong with her life. She just doesn't know what.

When Alexis decides to visit Crete her mother Sofia gives her a letter to give to an old friend in the small village of Plaka. Sofia has always kept her life before moving to London a secret but it is perhaps time to let Alexis know about her past and her family's origins. Origins that are tied into the small island of Spinalonga, a mere stones throw from Plaka. An Island that for many years was one of Greece's largest leper colonies and for a time was home to several of Alexis' ancestors.

This novel is engaging more for its location and history than for the actual story. Through reminiscences we are told the story of Alexis' family line over four generations. Their trials and tribulations. Don't get me wrong the story is very readable it just pales in comparison to the story of the area in which it is set. Add to this the fact that the novel covers the years leading up to the discovery of a cure for leprosy and you have a rich novel which will engage you throughout.

The Island has also been made into a television series. Alas it's only in Greek so far and you might have to be brave to watch all 20 plus episodes with subtitles.

One day

by David Nicholls

There has been a bit of hype about this book recently, and in my view it is well-deserved. Beginning on their university graduation day in 1988, we visit Emma (working class, aspiring writer, bit serious) and Dexter (wealthy background, aspiring TV presenter, bit of a cad) every 15 July for the next two decades, and discover how they (and their friendship) evolve. Their friendship (mostly) survives their personal ups and downs: failed relationships, spectacular career disasters, substance abuse. Very funny in parts, very moving in others, One day is a wonderful romp through the past 20 years (lots of "Oh yeah, I remember that!" moments) as experienced by two great characters, which will appeal particularly to thirty- and forty-somethings. A great will they/won't they?, should they/shouldn't they? story.

(Reviewed by Angela.)