NetGalley provided me with the following uncorrected proofs for review. The first, The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave, is a good read. Unfortunately, the other two books are extremely disappointing. Miranda Rijks’ The Other Mother follows others I have read by this author. They have been fairly good beach reads, and for GoodReads I have rated them 3*. This time I was unable to do that, and this book is amongst the few I have allocated 2*. Valerie Keogh’s The Librarian has a very concerning section related to the rape of the main character. It sits badly with the efforts, herculean at times, that have been made to give women’s accounts credibility. So many novels deal with issues such as this astutely, it is disappointing to read what seems like a throwback to the past. People who have read my articles on Agatha Christie, in particular the ideas about rape in Nemesis, will be aware of the problems with such material in past novels.
Victoria Scott The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave Aria & Aries, 2023.
Once again Victoria Scott deftly combines sympathetic and appealing characters, some heart-warming conclusions, and social commentary. Such a combination provides an enjoyable read, while raising questions that are worth pondering. The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave is a book that, while raising such questions, does not lose sight of the need to develop characters who are attractive at the same time as identifying their failures, and story lines that are absorbing.
The ‘women who wouldn’t leave’ are tenants on a council estate. Their homes become the focus of a fight between residents and the local council. A decision is to be made on whether the land should be sold to a real estate company which will demolish the council houses and substitute expensive housing. The women and their neighbours determine to bring the council to account, by ensuring that their arguments against the changes become part of the debate. At the same time as this political venture takes place, the personal changes that need to be made to ensure success, are pursued. At the heart of both processes, the political endeavour and the personal, are Constance and Matilda. Both women have suffered, made egregious mistakes, and as a consequence are wounded. Their damaged lives impact on the people around them. See Books: Reviews for the complete review.
Miranda Rijks The Other Mother Inkubator Books, 2023.
The Other Mother is an awkward read, predominantly because while a child has been abducted, there is little sense of urgency about solving the crime. Rijks tells several women’s stories, including that of the mother of the missing child. While these stories revolve around four year old Florrie and interactions with her parents, the police and friends, at times they detract from the enormity of the kidnap.
The two main characters are Nala, Florrie’s mother, and Jane, her friend and the woman who should have collected Florrie. In her interactions with her friends, husband and the police Nala’s feelings seem relatively unengaged with the horror of Florrie’s disappearance for several days. Jane, who has been impersonated by the kidnapper when she is late to collect Florrie, while distressed, is also engrossed by her other responsibilities. Other characters’ stories are woven throughout and seem to vie with the main narrative for precedence. See Books: Reviews for the complete review.
Valerie Keogh The Librarian Boldwood Books 2023.
The librarian, Ava Warrington, works at the fictional Tate Modern Library, has a pleasant home with an alarm system, in the suburbs, loving parents in the country, a sister for whom she babysits, and a good friend Poppy, whom she met at university. She also has a past that haunts her, and as the anniversary of that event nears, her fragile state of satisfaction with herself and her life, teeters. Her distress is augmented by sounds in her home, a dead bird on her back patio, meeting an overbearing man at a nearby bistro, and a disaster at work.
These are the elements of a psychological drama, and Keogh manages at times to achieve this. Ava is a people pleaser and makes efforts to deal with her inability to say no; she rebuffs the overbearing man with determination; and she finds the courage to take on the detective role when her friend’s enthusiasm for yet another ‘love of her life’ leads to her possible disappearance. See Books: Reviews for the complete review.
After the Covid update: Barbie – the film, some comments, Feminist films, London Library Bars, Cindy Lou, Publishing, featuring a new release – Hunted by Gordon d’Venables.
Covid Update, ACT to 14 April
There were 558 new cases, with 46 people with covid in hospital. One person is in ICU. There were no deaths recorded.
Barbie – the film, some comments
Also see the review of Doll in Week Beginning November 30, 2022, or on Good Reads.
The New Daily 10:00pm, Apr 14, 2023 Updated: , Louise Talbot , Entertainment Reporter.
Margot Robbie’s teasing quip about her Barbie movie inspires some unreal theories
On the surface, actress and screenwriter Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated Barbie movie looks like a peaches-and-cream, pro-feminist, good vibe flick marketed to woke teenagers.
Dig a little deeper and discover the Hollywood mantra – that nothing is as it seems – or so Australian actress Margot Robbie teased in a recent interview ahead of the July 30 premiere.
“The first time I read the Barbie script, my reaction was, ‘Ah! This is so good. What a shame it will never see the light of day … because they are never going to let us make this movie’,” she told BAFTA (via Indiewire).
‘Can’t tell ya’
Grinning from ear to ear, she smugly says: “But they did!”
Then she made a ‘my lips are sealed’ gesture when asked to elaborate.
“Can’t tell ya,” Robbie said.
So if the script was so “good”, why did Gerwig’s live-action storyline get green-lit and what’s it about?
The doll was created by US businesswoman Ruth Handler and released by Mattel, Inc. in 1959, with the wholesome brand making billions of dollars over the decades with merchandise.
Barbie has appeared in 40 computer-animated films since 2001, “integrated into fairy tales, literary favourites, original stories, royal kingdoms, high-school classrooms, and … New York City”.
“These films, despite variances in animation quality that range from very good to near-uncanny CGI, have been wildly popular,” writes Collider, adding that a live-action has been in the works since 2009 with various writers and big-name stars.
Gerwig (White Noise, Little Women) is not giving anything away, except a few vague comments on a recent episode of Dua Lipa’s At Your Service podcast.
See Television and Film: Comments for the complete article.
Feminist films
As is usually the case with lists such as the one below there will be different films that people believe should be included – and that some should be excluded. See Books: Reviews 9 June 2022 for a review of Erin Brockovich’s book, Superman’s Not Coming, for further information about the content of Erin Brockovich.
The new classics: 10 of the best feminist films you need to watch in your lifetime
WORDS Elyssa Kostopoulos PHOTOGRAPHY Pinterest PUBLISHED Sun, 27 Jun 2021 – 9:14 am
There are simply some films out there that are undisputedly necessary watching. While our heart still hurts for the classics, we’ve begun working through a new watchlist that is equally as important. Following on from International Women’s Day earlier this week, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the momentous success and lives of real women whose tales have made it to the big screen. And for good reason. Below, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best feminist films you definitely have to watch.
On the Basis of Sex, 2018
Image credit: Pinterest
The formidable Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a major icon for team RUSSH. Naturally, the 2018 film On the Basis of Sex, which follows RBG in her early life and career is at the top of our list for best feminist films. The film follows the late Supreme Court Justice through the landmark case that would set a precedent for sex discrimination; confirming Ginsburg’s place as one of the most prolific gender rights lawyers of her generation.
Set throughout the 50s, 60s and 70s, Felicity Jones takes on the role of RBG; portraying a fiercely determined lawyer who with her husband, Marty, take on Moritz v. Commissioner, the first federal case to declare discrimination on the basis of sex unconstitutional.
See Television and Film: Comments for the complete article featuring Frida, Erin Brockavich, Suffragette, Hidden Figures, A Private War, Lady Sings the Blues, The Glorias, North Country and Confirmation.
London Library Bars
Some wonderful places to visit in London. I have been in the library at The Cinnamon Club where dessert was served to our group after a delicious meal.
9 Lovely Library Bars In London For Perfectly Cosy Drinks
London’s library bars make for a classy and cosy night. Here are some of the best literary-focused places for a drink or two. SECRET LONDON • 22 MARCH, 2023
Nothing screams sophistication like tucking into a good book with a dram in hand – so we’ve rounded up the best of London’s library bars for a classy and cosy night out. (Going out can now be classed as educational – you’re welcome).
1. Scarfes Bar, Holborn
Named after British caricaturist, Gerald Scarfe, this bar is filled with Scarfe’s own collection of amusing paintings – making it an educational trip for art fans. Cocktail names draw from contemporary events and pop culture figures, and bring the namesake artist’s caricatures off the wall and into your glass. You can be sure that you’re in good hands, too, given that their Arturo Burzio was recently crowned the ‘elit Vodka Martini Master 2022‘. Oh, and there’s books. Lots of them. To fill the shelves, an antique dealer from Portobello Market hand-selected over 1,000 antique tomes. Be still my beating heart!
Keep an eye out for their all-new menu, coming soon, to celebrate ten years of Scarfe’s!
2. Library Bar at The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner
The outstanding mixology, “liquid museum” of spirits, and warm, vibrant atmosphere make The Library Bar at The Lanesborough a popular choice with Knightsbridge and Belgravia’s locals, as well as hotel guests. While bartenders often hesitate to tamper with classic cocktails, the team at this library bar have re-imagined some old favourites with fantastic results. They also have their own house gin, The Lanesborough London Dry Gin, and an absolute plethora of spirits.
Throughout March they’re running a special pop-up in collaboration with “the world’s leading publisher of the highest quality illustrated books”, Rizzoli. They’ll be displaying their titles throughout the bar, with the chance to sip on special Rizzoli cocktails and even meet some of the featured authors! Find out more here.
3. Library Bar at The Ned, Bank
This intimate library bar bills itself as a champagne and martini bar. Now that’s the kind of specialisation that can get behind! Hidden behind a jacquard curtain, the venue boasts a menu of thirty different Champagnes, a martini trolley, signature and vintage cocktails, and a healthy selection of vermouth. Create your own Martini using your choice of spirit and garnishes, and get cosy on a velvet sofa – you’ll feel oh-so suave.
4. Swans Bar at Maison Assouline, Piccadilly Circus
196A Piccadilly, W1J 9EY. Closest station: Piccadilly Circus.
In the heart of Piccadilly and housed in the landmark building that was once a former bank, it would be rude not to have a drink or a spot of afternoon tea in what is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful book stores. Have a sip, have a browse, and maybe even learn more about the drink in your hand.
196A Piccadilly, W1J 9EY. Closest station: Piccadilly Circus.
5. The Cinnamon Club, Westminster
Once the reading room of the old Westminster Library, this Grade II listed building is now home to contemporary Indian restaurant, The Cinnamon Club. The beautiful restaurant has, however, honoured its history and retained its literary spirit in the book-filled walls. All food is complemented with carefully sourced wines, and their gin trolley offers an exceptionally curated collection of gins. A cocktail menu in both bars promises an exploration of tastes with signature famous cocktails. Eat, drink, and admire the history of literacy!
30-32 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU. Closest station: St James’s Park or Westminster.
6. The Fable, Holborn
Inspired by the fantasy world of fairy tales and Aesop’s fables, The Fable (looking out onto Holborn Viaduct) offers tranquil calm in the heart of the city. From the leather bound books to the vintage typewriter, every detail tells a story. Whether you’re just popping in for a drink or sitting down for an evening meal, you’ll quickly spot the venue’s enchanting quirks. This (pictured ) is, of course, the best seat in the house.
52 Holborn Viaduct, EC1A 2FD. Closest station: Farringdon or City Thameslink.
7. Electric House, Notting Hill
Now, look, you are going to need to be a member to get in to the library at Electric House. But ask around, you’re sure to be have a friend who has a cousin who knows someone that can get you in. And given how gorgeous the space is, it’s worth the effort. The library also plays host to live music, complementing the library of not just books, but also vinyl records.
191 Portobello Road, W11 2ED. Closest station: Ladbroke Grove
8. The Phene, Chelsea
This iconic Chelsea pub dates its heritage back to the 1800s, and the three-floor clubhouse-style venue hides a whole host of rooms. It’s equally welcoming throughout the year, with a sunny beer garden for the summer and warm cosy rooms for the cooler months. They also boast “the comfiest chairs in all of Chelsea.” A bold claim. Care to put it to the test? Grab one of the antique books from the shelves (carefully, now!) and settle in.
9. Library Bar at the Bush Theatre, Shepherd’s Bush
During the day, the Bush Theatre’s Library Bar is a relaxing workspace and coffee hub. But by night, it serves up craft beers, bespoke cocktails and great wines. Whenever you choose to visit, there are always plentyyyyy of playtexts in the library, if you’re after a bit of inspiration. To read, or not to read — that is the question!
7 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, W12 8LJ. Closest station: Shepherd’s Bush Market.
A far more simple venue than those in London as described above was visited by Cindy Lou recently.
Breakfast at Divine Cafe and Bar
Divine has an interesting menu, and one of the highlights is breakfast. With its indoor and outdoor seating, pleasant and efficient service and delicious meals, Divine Cafe and Bar is an excellent addition to the Jamieson Shopping Centre. The scrambled egg with grilled tomatoes is generous; the eggplant, red onion, olives and sundried tomatoes on toast is more exotic and as generous.
Publishing
This time my contribution to articles on publishing is small, but important. Gordon d’Venables has written his second book. Some readers will recall that I wrote about Gordon’s first book, in the blog some time ago. At that time, the second was in his mind, if not on the page. It was interesting to see how the publication of a first novel made him even more keen to get onto the next. I found this very instructive, as my reaction to completing a huge writing task was to try to find smaller ones that took much less effort. I wonder what other writers’ response is to finishing a book, major paper or thesis? To read more about Gordon’s first publication see Gordon d’Venables, Medusa Image, post for 20 January, 2021. Gordon will write about his publishing experience for the blog.
New Release – Hunted by Gordon d’Venables
Hunted will be released in a fortnight. More about it then.
Robin's Room 