Short but plenty of impact

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The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly
by Jean-Dominique Bauby
Paperback, 139 pages, Published 2004 by Harper Perennial
A man trapped in a body that no longer functions but with a brain brimming with memories, creativity and stories. 
Communicating by blinking only with one eye he dictates a remarkable memoir filled with humour, insights and tinged with sadness. 
I don't think anyone could imagine being locked into their body. The thought of spending hours, weeks, months lying in a bed with nothing but your thoughts is unfathomable. Yet Bauby was able to demonstrate a deep love for humanity and place focus on the simple pleasures we take for granted. Just the simple act of being able to ruffle his son's hair is heartbreaking.
A poignant memoir.



Blood Acre
by Peter Landesman
Paperback, 272 pages, Published January 1st 2000 by Penguin Books
Nathan Stein was once a successful lawyer has quickly slid down into the depths of corruption and now finds himself accused of murder. 
Landesman has created a world which is gritty, realistic and it lifts off the page. The characters are flawed, self-interested and ugly. 
There is a lot packed into the pages and a lot of characters. As much as I enjoyed Landesman's writing style, the descriptions and the rhythm of the words. I just did not become consumed by the story and I am not sure why

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