I don’t think I need to bother reflecting on the kind of year 2021 turned out to be overall. It happened; let’s move on, shall we?
In bookish terms, I felt like much of my year was defined by a lingering reading slump, meaning it came as a very pleasant surprise when I surpassed my goal for the year (by 1), reading 101 books in total. That’s the lowest figure since I started tracking my reading, but objectively, I’m aware it’s still a lot of books, and considering the backdrop we’ve all been living against, I can make my peace with it! I talked a little about my 10 favourites here.
My average rating was 3.6 stars. That’s .1 up on last year’s average, and it means I’m still enjoying the majority of the books I pick up, so I’ll take that as a win!
Though I always pick up books based purely on what appeals to me at the time, as the year comes to a close, I like to look back and break them down based on a few key areas. It’s clear to see I’m still drawn to the works of women far more than I am men, and I’m also pleased to see that my intake of non-binary authors has gone up a little – though this could certainly still be higher.
In terms of authorship, I’m pleased to see it’s not a terrible balance, but I could always stand to read more from authors of colour. I’d be much happier if it could move closer towards a 50/50 split, at least.
As per the trend of the last few years, more than half of my reading is given over to novels/novellas, and the proportion of my reading dedicated to poetry has edged up slightly again, which I’m perfectly happy with!
It also seems that around a quarter of my reading is made up of works in translation, which is pretty consistent with last year. I’d like to maintain or even boost that proportion moving forward, if possible.
I’m still going to set myself some goals for the year ahead, but in the spirit of not wanting to pile the pressure on when we’re still going through the wringer, I’m going to keep them simple:
Read 90 books: This is lower than I usually set my target, but I want to respect the fact my reading slowed down for much of last year. While it’s good to motivate myself with an ambitious end goal, reading is something I love, and so I never want it to feel like a daunting chore. Life is rough at the moment; it’s okay to ease the pace a little when we need to.
Commit to WITmonth: I love joining in with Women in Translation Month, which takes place every August. For the last few years, I’ve committed to reading exclusively women in translation during that month, and I’d like to do so again.
Re-read Saga: I read and loved the first 7 volumes of Saga as they came out, but I fell out of the loop and haven’t picked any up for ages. I believe the series is coming to the end of a hiatus soon, so I’d like to refresh my mind and get caught up.
As always, I’ll finish this little retrospective by bringing together every title I read throughout the last 12 months (followed, this time, by all the embroidery projects I completed). If anything catches your eye, feel free to drop me a comment. Thanks for stopping by – Happy reading, and all the best for 2022!
It’s that time again! It goes without saying that 2021 has been another strange year, and sadly for me, much of it was defined by a lingering reading slump. It boggles my mind therefore that I somehow managed to get through 101 books, with my favourites listed below.
As always, I chose from the books I read for the first time throughout the past 12 months, and not strictly books that were published within that time. I always take into account how much I enjoyed the book at the time, and how well it has stayed with me since. But without further ado, let’s talk about some books!
Sealed by Naomi Booth
At once both highly allegorical and frighteningly plausible, this claustrophobic novel follows the perspective of a pregnant woman during the spread of a strange skin-sealing disease, born of climate change and an increasingly toxic atmosphere. Using body horror to explore the fear and potential terror of pregnancy/birth, the book also offers shrewd commentary on the narrative of female “hysteria” and the fight for body autonomy. This wasn’t the knock-out favourite I hoped it would be at the time, but certain moments continue to haunt me, strengthening my appreciation of its smart, understated power.
The Butterfly Lampshade by Aimee Bender
A quiet exploration of family, trauma, and mental health, The Butterfly Lampshade follows Francie as she reflects on a particularly upsetting and unusual string of events that took place in her childhood. Though it flirts with an otherworldly tone and elements of magical realism, it offers very real, poignant commentary on a complex mother-daughter dynamic, looking at just how closely fear, guilt, and love can intertwine when it comes to family. Deliberately fragmented and skilfully underplayed, Bender’s unique approach makes the book all the more impactful.
Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro
His first release since winning the Nobel Prize for Literature, Ishiguro’s latest novel blends the appeal of commercial fiction (thanks to an enticing setup and immense readability) with the author’s signature exploration of the human condition. Concerned primarily with the moral complexities of artificial intelligence, the book explores well-worn themes of speculative sci-fi, but Ishiguro’s subtle emotional delivery gets to the heart of the best and worst traits of humanity. His brilliantly well-handled point-of-view and worldbuilding ensure it’s a fresh, worthwhile offering.
Hotel Iris by Yoko Ogawa, translated by Stephen Snyder
Though not always easy to stomach, Ogawa’s signature hypnotic atmosphere makes it almost impossible to look away from this fascinating, offbeat little novel. The story Follows a 17-year-old who willingly subjects herself to a series of physical, emotional, and sexual humiliations at the hands of a much older man. Exploring misplaced grief and toxic relationships as a means of self-punishment, the book highlights the often fine lines between pleasure and pain, passion and torture, excitement and fear. In pin-sharp prose, Ogawa has written a novel that is as shocking as it is tender.
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
Set in the run up to Christmas in 1980s Ireland, this understated yet powerful little novel looks at the ideas of compassion and secrets; those we cannot see and those we choose not to. Capturing a very specific time and place within Irish history, Keegan embraces the power of implication, commenting on heavy topics without resorting to sensationalism. Sad yet full of hope, it captures the feelings of charm, nostalgia, melancholy, and longing that so often go hand-in-hand during the festive period. It’s a sensitive ode to the resilience of the working classes, and the quiet yet vital heroism of those who choose not to turn a blind eye when faced with injustice.
Endless Night by Agatha Christie
Though one of Christie’s lesser-known works, this quickly became one of my favourites. Hugely compelling, it has many of the hallmarks you’d expect from a classic Christie novel, including a central element of mystery, well-drawn characters, fantastic dialogue, and an intricate tapestry of clues that leads to a startling truth. What marks this out among her work, however, is how heavily she leans into the conventions of gothic literature – complete with a grand, imposing house, and whispers of the supernatural. Brooding and expertly paced, I loved its seamless blend of crime fiction and psychological horror – bolstered by excellent commentary on the freedoms and trappings of money.
Tonight We Rule the World by Zack Smedley
This is a powerful look at navigating trauma on your own terms. We follow Owen, who is sexually assaulted during a visit to a prospective university. When the crime is anonymously reported to his school, he is forced to deal with the fallout. The novel delves into issues as wide-ranging as loyalty, abuse, gender, PTSD, gaslighting, sexuality, toxic masculinity, and warped plays for power. It’s a tangled web, but the narrative never feels bloated, thanks to how well-realised Smedley’s protagonist is.
The Butcher’s Blessing by Ruth Gilligan
Set amidst the devastating outbreak of “Mad Cow Disease” in the 1990s, this is an achingly real portrayal of rural life in Ireland, and an ode to the country’s fraught history with its own folklore. Opening with the image of a body suspended from a hook, the narrative jumps back to explore the events that would lead to this man’s grotesque end. Instantly compelling, the stakes are consistently raised as we attempt to identify both the victim and the perpetrator from a cast of complex, morally ambiguous characters. Though ostensibly a literary thriller, the focus is placed firmly on its characters, all of whom are wrestling with their own inner demons. This allows for nuanced commentary on the fight for autonomy in a culture ruled by tradition, and the bravery required to defy society’s expectations in search of happiness.
Love and Fury by Samantha Silva
This stunning novel serves as a love letter to the genius of pioneering feminist and writer, Mary Wollstonecraft, while also painting a picture of the very real, sensitive woman behind the legend. Silva does an excellent job of celebrating her subject’s sharp intellect and early push for equality, exploring issues of gender, class, and sexuality with nuance and grace. That said, the book never feels like an academic text or a dot-to-dot biography. Wollstonecraft was a pioneer in many respects, but she was also a human being, susceptible to the same flaws and heartache as the rest of us. I think Silva handled the balance of reverence and honesty in portraying her heroine with aplomb. Whether familiar with Wollstonecraft yet or not, this is a gorgeous, evocative read; a character study that is equal turns inspiring, captivating, and moving.
Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy
McConaghy blends powerful eco-fiction with the intrigue of a thriller in this arresting look at human nature. Our heroine is Inti Flynn, an environmental biologist leading a controversial rewinding project that aims to bring wolves back to rural Scotland. The surrounding community are immediately hostile; their resistance reaching a fever pitch when the mutilated body of a man is discovered. Inti is determined to absolve the wolves of blame — and thus spare them from a brutal culling — but to do so means proving there’s a killer in their midst. At once a page-turner and a deep dive into the psyche of its characters, McConaghy’s prose paints vivid pictures of Scotland’s rugged beauty. Almost every character is shown to be capable of both great compassion and immense cruelty, prompting us to consider which of these (if not both) is the true nature of man. And yet, nothing is ever presented as straightforward; McConaghy always mining the moral complexities of the situation. Even Inti is regularly forced to question the validity of her project, and where the line falls between vital conservation and unethical interference with nature. Burning with passion, Once There Were Wolves is an ode to the land as it once was, and how it could be.
Before I highlight my favourite reads of the year, and take stock of my reading year as a whole, there’s just time for one last monthly wrap up. Let’s just jump right into it, shall we?
Since December always seems to end up being a bit of a hectic month, I didn’t get through a huge number of embroidery projects, but the ones I did work on, I loved. These included a couple of larger pieces – a pair of blue tits, and some Van Gogh inspired sunflowers – and a couple of mini pieces – personalised reindeer decorations for my niece and nephew.
There we have it! What was your favourite read in December?
Well… November happened. On a personal level, it was far from a great month, I’m afraid. Sadly, I had to say goodbye to my beloved pupper, Barney. He was the sweetest, gentlest bundle of scruff, and I’ll miss him every day, but I know he had a long and happy life.
I felt I had to acknowledge his loss, but in the spirit of normality, here’s a quick wrap up of the reading and embroidery projects I managed throughout the month during happier moments.
Aside from a distinctly summery beach hut scene (which was a commissioned piece), most of my embroidery and weaving projects for November had a distinctly cosy and Christmassy feel. I particularly enjoyed working on the little robins, which I have a real soft spot for. Some of these pieces are still available to buy over on my Etsy shop if you’d like to snag one in time for the holidays!
There we have it! What was your favourite read in November? Are you on track to hit your goals before the end of the year?
October was definitely another month where quality took precedence over quantity when it came to my reader, but I can certainly live with that! Here’s a quick roundup of my month in books, followed by a look at the embroidery (and weaving) projects I’ve been working on.
6. The Book of Mother by Violaine Huisman, tr. by Leslie Camhi
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | Review to come
7. Women & Power by Mary Beard
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | Review to come
Favourite of the month: Tonight We Rule the World
Thankfully, October was much more productive for me when it came to embroidery. This included getting a head start on some festive bits and pieces – It’s early, I know, but I wanted to make sure I factored in plenty of time for international shipping, and for those who like to get organized ahead of the game! I’ve also been trying out (and loving!) hand weaving, which led to a few mini wall hangings. Here’s a look at the projects I completed throughout the month, some of which are still available over on my little Etsy shop.
September was definitely a month of quality over quantity, as though I picked up fewer books overall than usual, two of them are real contenders for my reads of the year list. Links to reviews of each book can be found below, followed as usual by a little look at the embroidery projects I’ve been working on recently.
Favourite of the Month: Once There Were Wolves & Love and Fury
As for embroidery projects, I completed a landscape and a custom necklace, both of which are off to their new homes. I also worked on a couple of mini Halloween themed pieces and a floral design, which can be found over on my Etsy.
Did you have a good month? What was your favourite read in September?
In terms of reading, August was easily the most productive and enjoyable month I’ve had so far this year. That was thanks in large part to it being Women in Translation Month, which I always love getting stuck into! All of my reads throughout August fit into the WIT category, with my 12 picks representing 9 languages across 12 countries. Below are links to my full thoughts on each, followed by a look at the embroidery projects I’ve been working on recently.
The books I read in August
Books Read: 12
Yearly total: 71
1. The Dangers of Smoking in Bed by Mariana Enriquez – Argentina – Translated from the Spanish by Megan McDowell
I had a lot of fun with embroidery projects this month too, including trying out some embroidered bookmarks for the first time. I also hit 30 sales over on my little Etsy shop; a small but lovely milestone! Here’s a quick look at the pieces I worked on throughout August.
What was your favourite read in August? Did you pick up anything for WIT month?
It definitely felt like I started to break out of my reading slump somewhat throughout July. Though the number of books I finished remained on the low side (compared to my usual pace), there were definitely more full length works in the mix this time, which is a decent step in the right direction.
The overall quality of what I picked up was also pretty good, so let’s hope this upturn continues into August! I’m feeling optimistic that it will, given that it’s Women in Translation Month – which I love! But without further ado, here’s a quick glimpse at what I read this month (with links to full reviews if you’d like to know more), followed by a look at some recent embroidery projects.
8. Frida by Sébastien Pérez & Benjamin Lacombe, tr. by Alison Anderson
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | Review to come
Favourite of the month: The Butterfly Lampshade & Frida
In terms of embroidery, I really enjoyed working on some more original designs throughout the month, which resulted in a couple of landscapes, a seascape, and a tribute piece to Frida Kahlo. I also tried out some embroidered jewellery for the first time, which was a lot of fun! As before, you can find available pieces over on my Etsy.
Thanks for stopping by! What’s the best thing you read or did in July?
It’s fair to say I’m in the grips of a slump at the moment, and my June reading definitely suffered as a result. At a glance, I did still get through a decent number of books, but there wasn’t a huge amount of reading in most of them. I’m hopeful I’ll have more success in July, but equally, I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself, as a bit of burnout was inevitably going to catch up with us all eventually. But without further ado, let’s wrap up June!
In contrast to my lackluster reading month, June was great in terms of embroidery. I made some more sales through my little Etsy shop, including a couple of custom pieces, which was lovely. Here’s a look at the projects I completed throughout the month.
The big update on the embroidery front is that I opened an Etsy shop! With finished pieces stacking up and more than a little persuasion from kind people, I decided to give it a shot. A huge thank you to everyone who has bought something or shared the shop; it’s been so lovely! There are still some pieces available if anyone is at all interested (click here), but as for the projects I completed this month, here’s a little look:
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Callum McLaughlin 