|
BOOKS we have
recently read and discussed.
A MORBID TASTE OF BONES - the
first of the Caedfael Chronicles by Ellis Peters. Several of us had read most of
these books years ago but found ourselves back with an 'old friend'. We were
reminded what a 'rattling good read' these are and what marvellous insights into
medieval religious thinking and practice they convey through the vivid character
sketches. The mix of religion and superstition interpreted for us by Caedfael
himself fuelled a most interesting discussion on present monasticism (also aided
by the recent TV series about ordinary lay people spending time in a monastery
or convent.)
General opinion:- It is really
enjoyable and beneficial to one's thinking to revisit old favourites!
WHY FORGIVE? by
Johann Christoph Arnold.
A difficult read
for most, because of the harrowing examples of crimes committed to those who
found they could forgive. Some just couldn't cope with the enormous implications
of such cruel crimes. Others felt it should be read - so that we try to
understand the new thinking behind "Restorative Justice".
The title page
quotes Alan Paton - There is a hard law - "when an injury is done to us, we
never recover until we forgive". Each chapter unfolds an act of forgiveness eg:-
Gordon Wilson's story whose daughter was killed in the Enniskillen bombing in
Northern Ireland. He said " I do my best in human terms to show forgiveness -
the Last Word rests with God".
Another victim,
now paralysed, shows how anger is a destructive emotion - he quotes an old
Chinese Proverb - " Whoever opts for bitterness should dig two graves"
Then of course
among the 14 stories there is the teaching and example of Jesus - "Father
forgive them -------" A difficult read - yes - but a very good reminder of our
Christian thinking.
TEARS OF THE
GIRAFFE by Alexander McCall Following on from the "No 1 Ladies Detective Agency,
it was felt that this would be a wonderful, humorous light relief!
Mma Ramotswe
continues to solve the cases brought to her with such a delicate, understanding
and caring touch, as well as putting over the "good old Botswana ways". You
can't help but be charmed and agree with her and her worthy surrounding
characters. What's more, if you are in need of a lift and a smile, there are 4
more books to go!
I also discovered
that some of these books come in CD or cassette form at 60p to book and 75p to
hire. Enquire at you local Library. And above all ENJOY!
Shirley Hallums
| 
