The Piano Teacher

I have just finished my latest book club book recommended by my friend Diane - The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee.



The book is set in 2 time periods, wartime and post war Hong Hong and is a compelling mix of love, war and betrayal. Claire, the piano teacher of the title, is newly arrived in Hong Hong in 1952 with her husband Martin and gets involved with the ex pat community, some of whom survived the wartime occupation by the Japanese. She meets Will, who has had a love affair with an intriging Eurasian woman Trudy, before and during the occupation. As the book evolves, Claire finds out more about Will's background and the tragic events which took place during the occupation.

I found the book exceptionally easy reading but the subject is moving and traumatic at times.

Definitely worth a read.

Book Club

Tomorrow night is the first night of the Book Club I have set up. I was in a book club when we lived in Scotland and since we moved 2 years ago I have been thinking of starting one. One thing I learned was there are 2 essentials for a successful book club - plenty of wine and plenty of food. I suppose I should say 3 essentials and add a good book!

My dilemma is which book to pick as the inaugural book the club shall read?

My favourite book of all time is Ken Folletts The Pillars of the Earth but at 1076 pages it may be unfair to ask the working mums that are coming along to read it within the 4 weeks until the next Book Club meeting.

My next favourite book is Stephen Kings The Stand but again at 1000+ pages it may not be the best choice.

I'm currently reading Philippa Gregorys The Other Queen about Mary Queen of Scots. Although I really enjoying it I'm not sure if historical novels are everyones cup of tea.

So I think I've narrowed it down to 2 of my favourite reads of the past year. The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton


and The Island by Victoria Hislop.


Both are compelling stories, not over long and hard to put down. So I'd like some input from anyone who has read either or both of these books, to help me decide! Leave your comments and I'll get back to you about what I chose and how the night went.