Canongate Book Mail 💌

This week, I was thrilled to receive a special delivery of book mail—all from Canongate!

It's always exciting to get my hands on new reads, and these editions are absolutely stunning.

This Bright Life by Karen Campbell:

This Bright Life by Karen Campbell is a poignant, yet hopeful tale that gives a powerful voice to twelve-year-old Gerard. The story delves deep into his world – a world of mischief, friendship, and unspoken struggles at home.

While Gerard is undeniably bright and full of energy, he is burdened by challenges beyond his years, and the book’s exploration of his journey feels both raw and moving.

Campbell captures Gerard's complexity with remarkable tenderness, bringing to light his mistakes, his growth, and the immense weight he carries on his young shoulders.

The narrative, laced with both humour and heartache, shows how one split-second decision can change everything. As Gerard faces the ripple effects of his actions, the adults around him attempt to piece together the fragments of his life, but it is clear that it takes more than just good intentions to truly help him.

This book is a heart-wrenching reminder of the messiness of life and the importance of second chances. I found it both emotionally powerful and uplifting, with a message of hope that lingers long after the last page.

This Bright Life is a moving exploration of resilience, compassion, and the complex path to understanding. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys stories of personal growth and the strength it takes to rise from adversity.

Buy the book here.

Buy the Kindle book here.

Support a local and independent bookshop and buy the book here.

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Overnight: Journeys, Conversations and Stories After Dark by Dan Richards:

Overnight: Journeys, Conversations and Stories After Dark by Dan Richards is an intriguing and beautifully written exploration of the night.

This book delves into the many facets of darkness, from the comfort and solitude it offers to those seeking refuge, to the fear and mystery it can evoke in others. Richards captures the essence of night in a way that makes the reader pause and reconsider what happens when the world falls quiet.

The book celebrates the unsung heroes who work through the night – from bakers to health workers, and emergency services to couriers.

These stories are both inspiring and humbling, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who keep the world turning while most of us sleep. Richards also beautifully weaves in elements of nature, art and dreams, exploring the nocturnal lives of creatures like bats and the stars above us, making this a truly rich and multifaceted read.

What I found particularly captivating was the way Richards blended personal reflections with the voices of others, creating a tapestry of experiences that are both thought-provoking and enchanting. Whether recounting his own night-time musings or shedding light on fascinating individuals who live in the shadows, the book encourages a deep appreciation for the dark hours.

Overnight is a unique and captivating book that changes the way you view the night. It's a journey through darkness that offers light, beauty, and a new understanding of the nocturnal world. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it to be a refreshing and thought-provoking read, perfect for anyone who has ever wondered about the world after dark.

Buy the book here.

Buy the Kindle book here.

Support a local and independent bookshop and buy the book here.