Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

I missed the film while it was out at the cinemas, so I thought I'd read the book instead.

I'm not sure what to make of it. It was enjoyable in parts (and I suspect the ending was rewritten for the film) but what is it meant to be? Love story? Political satire? Commentary on middle-eastern affairs? I'm confused.

Glenrowan

The siege of Glenrowan is one of the better known episodes in Australian bushranging history, having been part of the history curriculum in Australian schools ever since the event happened. But it's usually one episode in the broader history.

Ian W. Shaw's very readable book goes into the detail of the story. He begins at the end, the hanging of Ned Kelly (well, we all how it ends!), he then goes back to the beginning and explores the events leading up to, during and after the siege. It was a fascinating read, far better than anything I was taught in school.

Defending Jacob

This was a surprise. Very well written and intriguing. It had me hooked right to the end (just what you want in a thriller). And the twist at the end was not what I thought coming (which is why I'm keeping quiet on the plot details).