New books on display at Hurunui District Library from 29 Dec – 5 Jan

 

 

 

 

 “Beyond the front line” by Mike McRoberts

When news is often confined to sound bites and brief backgrounders, some of the best stories behind the news go largely untold. Here, without those constraints, Mike is able to give full, truthful and honest portrayals of these event. Admired for his credibility and willingness to go to the hot spots, in a reporting career spanning 25 years, Mike is best known for his work in some of the world’s most dangerous places, covering conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Gaza, East Timor and the Solomon Islands. He has also covered some of the world’s worst natural disasters from tsunamis, to wildfires and earthquakes, including the devastating earthquake in Haiti in 2010, and then, close to home, his informative and compassionate coverage of the Christchurch earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. [Cover]

 

 

 

 “The Scottish prisoner” by Diana Gabaldon

In this highly-anticipated new novel, Diana Gabaldon brings back one of her most compelling characters: the unforgettable Lord John Grey – soldier, gentleman, and no mean hand with a blade. Set in the heart of the eighteenth century, Lord John’s world is one of mystery and menace. Diana Gabaldon brilliantly weaves together the strands of Lord John’s secret and public lives. Capturing the lonely, tormented, and courageous career of a man who fights for his crown, his honor, and his own secrets, Diana Gabaldon delivers breathtaking human drama, proving once again that she can bring history to life in a way few novelists ever have. [Cover]

 

 

 

 “Round the bend” by Jeremy Clarkson

What’s it like to drive a car that’s actively trying to kill you? This and many other burning questions trouble Jeremy Clarkson as he sets out to explore the world from the safety of four wheels. Avoiding the legions of power-crazed traffic wombles attempting to block highway and byway, he: shows how the world of performance cars may be likened to Battersea dog’s home; reveals why St Moritz may be the most bonkers town in all of the world; reminds us that Switzerland is so afraid of snow that any flakes falling on the road are immediately arrested; and argues that washing a car is a waste of time, Funny, globe-trotting, irreverent and sometimes downright rude, “Round the Bend” is packed with curious and fascinating but otherwise hopelessly useless stories and facts about everything under the sun (and just occasionally cars). It’s Jeremy Clarkson at his brilliant best. [Cover]

 

 

 

 “My hollywood” by Mona Simpson

A wonderfully provocative and appealing novel, from the much-loved author of “Anywhere But Here”, her first in ten years. It tells the story of two women whose lives entwine and unfold behind the glittery surface of Hollywood. Claire, a composer and a new mother, comes to LA so her husband can follow his passion for writing television comedy. Suddenly the marriage once a genuine 50/50 arrangement changes, with Paul working long hours and Claire left at home with a baby, William, whom she adores but has no idea how to care for. Lola, a fifty-two-year-old mother of five who is working in America to pay for her own children’s higher education back in the Philippines, becomes their nanny. Lola stabilizes the rocky household and soon other parents try to lure her away. What she sacrifices to stay with Claire and William  remains her own closely guarded secret. In a novel at turns satirical and heartbreaking, where mothers’ modern ideas are given practical overhauls by nannies, we meet Lola’s vast network of fellow caregivers, each with her own story to tell. We see the upstairs competition for the best nanny and the downstairs competition for the best deal, and are forced to ask whether it is possible to buy love for our children and what that transaction costs us all. We look into two contemporary marriages one in America and one in the Philippines and witness their endangerment, despite the best of intentions. “My Hollywood” is a tender, witty, and resonant novel that provides the profound pleasures readers have come to expect from Mona Simpson, here writing at the height of her powers. [Cover]

 

 

 

 ”Billy Connolly’s Route 66″ by Billy Connolly

The best-loved comedian in Britain heads off on the most famous highway in the world on an unforgettable journey. Having always dreamed about taking a trip on the legendary Route 66, Billy Connolly is finally heading off on the ride of a lifetime. Travelling all 2,488 miles of this epic road, known as ‘The Main Street ofAmerica’, the Big Yin will share the experiences of the countless travellers who have taken the journey before him. The tales he’ll gather on the way, from the skyscrapers of Chicago through the Wild West badlands of Oklahoma and Texas, and on to the beaches of the Pacific coast, will tell the story of modern America. And they might just inspire a few readers to get on their bikes as well. With his unrivalled instinct for a good story, and the affability that has endeared him to millions of fans, Billy is the ultimate companion for the ultimate road trip. [Cover]

Other titles on display this week :

“The art of Footrot flats” by Murray Ball

“The camera never lies” by Tess Daly

“Explosive eighteen” by Janet Evanovich

“Casper the commuting cat” by Susan Finden

“Knitted fairies” by Fiona McDonald

“Dead centre” by Andy McNabb

“Initiate’s trial” by Janny Wurts

To reserve any of these items please contact your local library or email info@hurunuilibraries.govt.nz

 Avril