01.Obviously Sinéad O’Connor’s death does not fit with the title of this post, but I’m using this space to remember her.
Sinéad’s music was a big part of my youth, and her bravery and defiance was remarkable to 19yo me. Her incredible memoir, Rememberings, revealed another side to her anguish, and I read that book through tears and laughter (she had a wicked sense of humour). I hope she has found her peace. Continue reading
I did away with ‘top tens’ a few years ago, and instead I finish the reading year with a recap of the books that are still speaking to me (less about four and five-star ratings, more about what has stuck). Continue reading
It’s Week 2 of Nonfiction November, this week hosted by What’s Nonfiction. The task? Pair up a nonfiction book with a fiction title. Continue reading
It’s time for Nonfiction November, starting with my ‘Year in Nonfiction’, hosted by Doing Dewey. Continue reading
It’s time for #6degrees. Start at the same place as other wonderful readers, add six books, and see where you end up. Continue reading
I clearly remember the first time I saw the film clip for Sinéad O’Connor’s 1990 breakout hit, Nothing Compares To You. With her shaved head, those eyes, and the tears, it was as if she’d landed from another world, totally different to the one dominated by the bubblegum pop, layered synths and fluoro fashion that we’d inhabited for years. And her voice… pure, rich, no tricks.
Rememberings by Sinéad O’Connor was my first five-star read for 2022. Actually, since I read it back in February, I’ve read it once more, and I’ve also listened to the audio (Sinéad reads it herself, so if you are considering this book and can access the audio, choose that). So, why does a book warrant three readings in six months? Continue reading
01. I’m devastated about the death of Olivia but thankful for her wonderful music – truly part of the soundtrack of my youth. A childhood watching Grease on loop with my cousins; modelling my outfit and hairstyle for my Yr 8 social on her Xanadu look; having her songs in pretty much every mixtape / playlist I’ve ever created; and picking her for the all important ‘last song of the night’ at my 50th. Particularly thankful for this gem that has surfaced (all my favourites in one place – imagine being there!): Continue reading
Cathy at 746 Books is hosting the 20 Books of Summer reading challenge again this year. As Cathy explains, it’s the most relaxed reading challenge you’ll participate in (swap books out, change your target, do whatever). The challenge is straightforward – read twenty books between June 1st and September 1st. Continue reading
01. Spectacular day at one of our favourite spots on the Yarra (in Lower Templestowe, where the platypus play). Continue reading
01. Another superb walk along the Yarra. And yes, it’s an algal bloom, but doesn’t it look incredible?! (at a billabong in Ivanhoe) Continue reading