Solar

Ian McEwan (2010)

Dissatisfying. Although crafted with occasional moments of situational humour and insights into the human condition, I was unable to sympathise or relate with the protagonist. Purely coincidence, as I was finishing up the book, I came across a news article promoting the same product as the central characters!

★★★★★ Enduring

★★★★★ Engaging

★★★★★ Rewarding

Moonwalking with Einstein

Joshua Foer (2011)

Insightful. Having livid vicariously through the author for one year was an unforgettable journey, expertly peppered with some solid science and delightful history. Wouldn't recommend it to anyone, but in the right hands, this book will undoubtedly prove useful. I shall take the lessons learned to heart.

★★★★★ Enduring

★★★★★ Engaging

★★★★★ Rewarding

Guns, Germs & Steel

Jered Diamond (1997)

Enlightening. It had been on my wish-list for a few years, and I am very glad that it made its way into my hands. At times, I found it to be a little too long in making a point, but it carries the reader very well. I, for one, felt a deep sense of understanding by the time I finished the book; suspect many of the underlying themes will stay with me for a long time. By no means a brief read, but it is the kind of book that once you've put it down, you cannot wait to pick back up.

★★★★★ Enduring

★★★★★ Engaging

★★★★★ Rewarding

Brave New World

Aldous Huxley (1932)

Reverberating. Felt a sense of accomplishment in reading this one. Not only was it regularly engaging, but very thought provoking. Have already recommended the novel to my wife and will not be dissuading any friends from investing the four or five hours needed to traverse dystopia! An excellent companion is Melvyn Bragg's In Our Time broadcast.
★★★★★ Enduring

★★★★★ Engaging
★★★★★ Rewarding