Norse mythology

In his introduction to Norse Mythology, Neil Gaiman says that many Norse myths have been lost. By the time these stories were transmitted in folktales, retellings, poems and prose, Christianity had already displaced the worship of the Norse gods. Prior to reading Neil Gaiman’s version of the Norse myths, my only knowledge came from reading … Continue reading Norse mythology

Battle Cry of Freedom

When I was in the USA, I was exposed to parts of American history. It was mostly odd facts like California was once part of Mexico or the history of independence in Boston. I became curious, especially about the American Civil War, a pivotal event in American history. I’ve just finished reading Battle Cry of … Continue reading Battle Cry of Freedom

Steve Jobs, Pixar and Disney

I’ve just finished reading The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger, the recently retired CEO of Disney. Part of his story with Disney is his relationship with Steve Jobs. Today, nine years ago in 2011, Steve Jobs passed away. Probably the most well-known book on Steve Jobs, with its white cover, is Steve Jobs … Continue reading Steve Jobs, Pixar and Disney

The Rosie novels

I was a bit sad last night to finish The Rosie Result, the final book in the Don Tillman trilogy. I slowed down as much as I could. Bill Gates recommended the first in the series – not personally but on his website. He normally recommends non-fiction. So I thought I’d give it a go. … Continue reading The Rosie novels

Much More Veg

If you’ve seen me lately, I’ve almost certainly bored you to death about a book that has revolutionised my life! Much More Veg by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall is that book. It’s by far the best cookbook I’ve had. I have many cookbooks but most of them are unsatisfactory in some way. The recipes are too complicated; … Continue reading Much More Veg

Running with Kenyans

The Kenyan runner Kipchoge won his third London Marathon yesterday. Coincidentally, I just finished reading Running with Kenyans. I found the book inspiring and the Kenyan love of running infectious. The author of the book went looking for the secret of why Kenyan runners are so good: “For six months I’ve been piecing together the … Continue reading Running with Kenyans

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine

This is a delightful, humorous story of a lonely, quirky woman who overcomes traumatic childhood loss, with the help of newfound friends, and makes us look afresh at societal norms.