Reading Shaun Tan, The Arrival, Daniel Pennac, Eye of the Wolf, Philip Reeve – Mortal Engine

Listening to Vaults – Caught in Still life

I’ve felt like the Lunchtime read has made me look at things differently. There have been flashes of recognition whilst browsing Dave’s Comics in Brighton – Blackcat, noir cat detective; the front splash of incredible perspectives and suave felines. Whilst at the Brighton Graphic Novel Symposium 2016, I listened and watched in awe as Bryan Talbot gave a masterclass, talking us through the construction individual panels. He shared a vast list of graphic novelists, and then he paused for a second as he said the name Shaun Tan – does anyone know him? My hand nearly shot up. Then there was the time I was in Waterstones and it seemed extra busy with lots of children and parents – I enquired what was happening and found out that Chris Riddell was due to visit. I was lucky enough to get his newest book signed. So there is this intertwining of reading and real life.

Also, when you see that book you read, or mention it and someone else’s face lights up, it’s a bit like the feeling you get when you see an old friend. There are a number of books on the list that I’ve read since my last post, and I’ve found the books I carry around with me are no longer just luggage but an instant insight into imagination; one which helps tire an overactive mind, or pass time in a waiting room. Reading concentrates the spirit. That sounds a bit nineteenth century, but what I probably mean is it helps me notice the world around me.

I’m back to a familiar pattern of reading a number of books at the same time, – really reading them, not with the half-hopeful expectation of finishing them. Since my last post I’ve worked my way through several Roald Dahl books. I’m stuck on The Great Glass Elevator… I’ve enjoyed Philip Reeve’s books and the weighty-tome The invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick. Daniel Pennac also delivered with the Eye of the Wolf.

It feels like time to reach for some more substantial classics. So I’m beginning Ursula Le Guin’s Earthsea Trilogy.