Looking for Eliza by Leaf Arbuthnot
I got a pre-published copy of this book from Radio Cumbria’s “The Arty Show” host, Helen – who made us promise to review it on the show. Helen invite Leaf to the show too and we had the pleasure of talking to her. Its nerve wracking speaking to an author. I am always in awe of them and worry about hurting their feelings if you didn’t enjoy their book.
I didn’t have to worry in this case. “Looking for Eliza” was entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable. The two main characters retired widow Ada and university student Eliza are complete opposites. They live on the same street and for different reasons are very lonely. Ada starts her own business, “Rent a Gran” to try and meet new people but it doesn’t stop her from feeling lonely until she meets Eliza and they develop a friendship – and ultimately save each other.
This book made me think about the impact loneliness can have on people and that anyone can be lonely. Its not about having lots of people around you, its having the right people who you can connect with.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Another book for the Radio Cumbria Book Club though I don’t think the author will be joining us this time.
Sally Rooney is in her 20’s and some people have said the narration lacks emotion because young people are so used to communicating by text, but it didn’t feel like this to me at all.
It follows Marianne and Connell and their deep attraction to each other. They get together at school but for various reasons are unable to have an actual relationship, but this makes their experience all the more real. They are together and apart due to miscommunication and a need to work through their personal demons.
I recognised the difficulty in talking to a boy at school, how much easier it is on neutral territory. There are so many rules about being cool and fitting in. It was a relief – and rather sad – to know that some things haven’t changed.
I loved the ending, even if it wasn’t what I wanted.
Pixie Chronicles 