The First Bookshelf of 2020

What better to do when in Corona-Lockdown then to open up a book and have a gander?
Reading enables you to travel to different locations, and embark on adventures without leaving your home, it can also be a source of great comfort for many.
I used to have a poor level of reading, don't get me wrong I could read, but it would take me half a year to finish a book. Last year, I set myself a target of reading 1 book a month the aim was to finish the year having read 12 books (and reviewing them and sharing the experience with you as I go). I'm happy to say I read a total of 18 books last year, (yes the children's book I read in the supermarket queue -pre corona lockdown- did count). Instead of claiming I'm now a book worm, I'm going to set my target to match last year's 18. I would like to improve further on my reading skills and share with you the books that I have chosen to devour in order to achieve my goal, just in case you might enjoy them or want to improve your reading abilities during the lockdown.

Ayoade on Top
by Richard Ayoade

After seeing Ayoade on a chat show sofa (can't remember the exact one but that's not what matters unless of course, you work in the Ayoade Marketing/PR team) I felt compelled to buy his book a literary biopic of the film "View from the Top". I have never seen the film starring Gwenyth Paltrow and Mark Ruffalo -in their pre- marvel acting careers-, nor do I think I ever will. However I did read Ayoade's book and was highly entertained, It transported me from my family Christmas Holidays and gave me an insight into the mind and life of Ayoade. I found myself laughing aloud on more than one occasion, having to search words in the dictionary and storing little factoids that will no doubt later come in handy (when someone says something along the lines of "tell me something I don't know"). Even learning a little about cinematography and directing, and being moved by stories of Ayoade's own childhood. If you are a fan of Richard Ayoade and his comedic tone, you will love this book, If you are a fan of lengthly film reviews you will also enjoy this book. It may not be for everyone but it has made its way into my colour coordinated bookshelf, huzzah.

The Boy, the mole, the fox, and the horse
by Charlie Mackesy

My second book of the year but quite possibly the best read of the year (too premature maybe!? might have to retract this statement later but for now I stand by it ). Never mind your age,  young or old, old or young, this book should be within every household and readily available for anyone who may need it. I wish I had had this book to look upon before but am unbelievably grateful to four characters made out of doodles that came to life in the mind of Charlie Mackesy.
A series of drawings and the heart moving journey the four characters take can be started at any point, on any page, picked up and put down as and when needed. This book will be cherished, re-read and thoroughly thumbed through. I highly recommend you pick this book up, for whatever page you land on will surely make you smile. I believe this will help many struggling with anxiety or depression and could bring great comfort to others.
Without a doubt, this story will always have a place on my bookshelf.

Wilde Women

By Louise Pentland

I pre-ordered this book and went to collect it on its release date in the summer of 2019. I picked it up a couple of times but couldn't really get into it until now. The third installment in Louise's Wilde Trilogy was much like a catch up with some old friends. The themes of women supporting and championing other women and the trials of motherhood followed on from book 1 and 2. This time introducing postpartum struggles and long lost relatives. I enjoyed this book and think if you're looking for a light and heartwarming read, this one is for you. It was a nice little end to the trilogy and has a place on my bookshelf.

Have you read anything interesting, that should be added to the bookshelf?

I also wanted to quickly say, it's ok if you're not able to concentrate on a book right now, there's a lot going on. Information is being thrown at you from left, right and center. Try to limit the Corona talk to an hour or half an hour a day, remember to follow the current guidelines, and hopefully, this will put your mind at ease and help you to relax a little.
I always find reading a brilliant form of escapism, being able to transport myself to different worlds without ever leaving my living room. Stay Home, Stay Safe.