Waterland by Graham Swift

We were saddened today to hear of the death of Edith, our oldest member. We could usually count on her not agreeing with the majority and valued her perspective having read the books first time round when they were first published . Our discussions won't be half as lively without her input. Our condolences to her family.

Graham Swift's Waterland divided the group with the positives just winning out. For several of us it was both challenging and thought provoking, prompting one of us to google 'why does history matter?' and listen to several interesting talks without resolving the question. Another had been prompted to visit Denver Sluice to breathe in the scent of the fens.

Comments varied from 'I thought he captured Fenland exquisitely and as a setting I thought it was totally central to the book, which wouldn't have succeeded as well, set elsewhere' and 'beautifully written, some parts so interesting, but such horrible events that it was impossible to enjoy' to 'dull', 'monotonous', 'flat', 'pretentious wank', 'lacking a voice' and 'couldn't engage'. If you've read the book, do let us have your reaction.

Haddenham Book Group gives it 3 thumbs down, 4 up.

Next meeting is on 18 July. Bring a book you want to recommend to the group and tell us about it.