What I’ve Been Reading – May’21 Edition

During my time of self-isolation, I watched a lot of OTT programs as one might expect, but I also picked up and finished a few books. To maintain a positive frame of mind, I searched for and read light-hearted novels including those I’d read before.

Asmara’s Summer by Andaleeb Wajid

This book takes us on a fun ride with a 17-year-old girl who is compelled to spend an entire summer vacation with her maternal grandparents at the (in her opinion) unfashionable Tannery Road. A very enjoyable read that doesn’t shy away from tackling some serious topics while maintaining a light tone.

Daddy Come Lately by Rupa Gulab

13-year-old Priya believes her dad is dead, until her mother reveals that he is very much not. He comes back into their lives and wants to actually get involved. Priya vows to take control of the situation before things worsen quickly. I found it quite funny and relatable even for adults.

A Long Way Down by Nick Hornby

Trigger alert – this is actually a book about suicide. I didn’t know one could write funny books centered on sensitive subjects. I won’t say more – but you will have to read it to believe it.

The Unknown Ajax by Georgette Heyer

No grand balls and scenes of London in this masterpiece by one of the world’s most favourite Regency authors, it is set entirely in Darracott Place in Sussex. Lord Darracott’s heirs, his son and grandson, have died. The new heir is a weaver’s son and a Major in the army, Hugo Darracott. The family expects him to be witless and he, on the spur of the moment, throws on a Yorkshire accent. But things are not what they seem – neither Darracott Place nor Hugo himself.

Apart from the above books, I watched an endless stream of programs that helped me stay positive:

1. Downton Abbey – a largely peaceful program though it does feature the occasional shocking death of a favourite character. However, I had seen it before and knew which episodes to avoid.
2. Pride and Prejudice – 1980 series – this is available in entirety on Youtube
3. Emily in Paris
4. Silicon Valley
5. Pitch Perfect
6. The Devil Wears Prada
7. The Big Short

Have you read any new books or watched any new shows that you would like to recommend? Let me know in the comments!