The God Delusion

I've read The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins and found it a very interesting and intelligent book arguing the case for the non-existence of God. Dawkins, an unapologetic atheist writes that God is an invention of mankind and the Bible was written by men, not God. Similarly for other religious texts. People have been brainwashed from earliest times by the clergy for their own ends, usually to make their own fortunes. Dawkins examines all religions and says religion is responsible for most of the problems in the world, especially wars. The book was a bit ponderous to start with but well worth reading, though not all will be convinced by what he has to say. 4/5

The Unknown Terrorist

I've read the disturbing The Unknown Terrorist by Richard Flanagan which tells the story of Gina (The Doll), a pole dancer who unwittingly gets caught up in a terrorist scare in Sydney. The story reveals society's paranoia regarding terrorism and the laws that govern it which strip citizens of their rights. Also shown are the characters who seek to benefit from creating fear, including the media, politicians and some security services. A great thriller. 41/2/5

The Book Thief

This gem, The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, was a great pleasure to read. The story, set in World War II Germany is narrated by Death. A young girl, Liesel Meminger, comes to live with foster parents, Hans and Rosa Hubermann, after the death of her young brother as her mother is taking her to the Hubermanns. At the boy's funeral, Liesel steals her first book and her foster father (Papa) teaches her to read it. She steals a few more books and is given some as gifts and she develops a passion for books and words. Meanwhile the horrors of the War are going on around her and she and her family meet many challenges. This book is beautifully written - an absolute treasure that will stay in your mind for a long time. 5/5

China Witness - Voices from a Silent Generation

I've read this wonderful book of oral histories, China Witness by Xinran and enjoyed it very much. Xinran spent many years on her research into Chinese history and sought out living (now elderly) witnesses to the historic events that shaped China. Each chapter covers an interview subject, but before the interview text begins, Xinran contextualises the subject's story so the reader understands the significance of the subject's place in that historic moment. Her interview skills are beautifully evident in the transcripts and she gets to the heart of the person. There are so many poignant stories of personal sacrifice as this generation of Chinese people believed it was their duty to build their nation. For many, their relationships with their children suffered as they pursued their "higher cause." This book is one of the best examples of the use of oral history I've read that augments the written history. 5/5