Hilary Macaskill

This book gives an exhaustive history of the homes that Christie and her family lived in during her lifetime. Keen on decorating and 'flipping' properties, she was also an ardent collector of knickknacks and bric-a-brac (much of it passed down through the generations). The author has given tours of the various properties and sites that were both a part of Christie's life as well as inspiration for many of her most famous works. [There's also a lot of behind the scenes info on her writing process + what she did when she wasn't writing.] This is definitely a coffee table book so if you're interested just be aware that it might be slightly difficult to carry this one around while commuting. ;-)

For fans of Agatha Christie's books as well as those interested in architecture, decorating, and history.… (mehr)

This is a cute book by two middle-aged English ladies (and various friends) who hike the Robert Louis Stevenson trail in France (see "Travels with a Donkey" by RLS) with a donkey. I wanted to read it to get a first-hand account of what the trail is like today. It's really very funny, in that understated British humour sort of way. It's not particularly deep or insightful - there is no journey into the abyss with only yourself starring back - no great personal insights on life (although a few on donkeys) - it's a light-hearted, light-stepped fun and easy read, another piece of the myth created by Stevenson. Thanks ladies I enjoyed the trip.… (mehr)