My January reading - done & dusted

My January reads

January is nearly over, thankfully I've managed to finish certain reading books this month. I know many people dislike January after the lively buzz of December but personally, I love it. For me, January is a time of new beginnings and goal setting. This year, one goal is to share my reading books with my readers.

David Copperfield - Charles `Dickens 
This book has taken me a couple of months to read given that I've only dedicated a small portion of reading time each day. I do love Dickens so, tend to read him aloud to enjoy the syntax, rhythms and assonance of his written word. Thankfully, my dog simply curls up and listens to me chuntering away page after page. This book had been on my TBR pile for years. I'd avoided it due to the mixed option of others. I admit, I was wrong. I loved it. And, should have read it before now. Typical Dickens, with a huge cast of characters, lengthy descriptions and entwining conflicts, holds your interest throughout.

Dumb Witness & The Mysterious Affair At Styles - Agatha Christie
Those who have followed me for numerous years know I adore Agatha Christie. Her crime books transport me back to quiet Saturday afternoons when I'd lie on my bed as a teenager and read all day. Dumb Witness was my first read of hers and so, I reread it on New year's day to begin my challenge. I'd remembered who the murder was but not the method or means so, it was lovely to immerse myself for the day.

The Mysterious Affair At Styles - was first published in 1920 so, it seemed apt to choose it. Not my favourite Christie book but entertaining with the introduction of Hasting's narrative and Poirot's 'little grey cells'. I have been tweeting whilst reading the crime books as part of the #ReadingChristie 2020 challenge organised by @AgathaChristie group on Twitter.

The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald
My paternal grandmother would have celebrated her 100th birthday this month so, I decided to reread her favourite book. She gave me her actual copy during my twenties so, I felt it was a fitting tribute. It has been many years since my initial read  and I'd forgotten how suave and sophisticated Jay Gatsby's parties were.

You've probably realised that I have several books on the go at the same time. I'd started another book Victoria: a life by A. N Wilson but I didn't manage to finish it this month - it'll overflow into my February's reads.

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