Star Sand by Roger Pulvers
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
An interesting premise, some interesting insights into Japanese culture, but ending felt rushed & characters not entirely rounded out.
The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country by Helen Russell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed reading this, very journalistic insights, a little bit anthropological mixed with some psychology. Interesting insights into the fact that the state provides so much support that people seem to have a lot more freedom … hence the ‘happiness factor’.
The Sugar Men by Ray Kingfisher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A very engrossing book, dealing with PTSD caused by the Holocaust, and a return to memories. Fairly gentle whilst dealing with a grim topic.
The First City by Joe Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this trilogy – insights into a world when women are a scarce resource, the hope and fear of opening up after years of being enclosed, and a happy, but not soppy happy ending – life is still tough!