SODBURY BOOK GARDEN - Opening September 2024!
Stephen King
Sodbury Book Garden is very much a family-run business, and as a family, we have always loved reading - that's one of the big reasons we created the bookshop! Whether it's reading for entertainment, or escapism, or to learn something new, we always have a book or two (or three) on the go at any one time!
Jasmin likes to read romance, fantasy and adventure novels, with the occasional sci-fi adventure thrown in the mix with some late night ancient history to keep things interesting. Matthew prefers things a little darker and reads thrillers and dystopia, but also likes to mix it up with educational and self-development non-fiction.
Reading with our two kids is also a huge priority for us. Their bedrooms are filled (and we literally mean filled!) with books of all types, but our eldest enjoys fantasy and adventure, and our youngest loves anything funny... or anything containing the word 'poop' (parents of boys - I'm sure you know what we mean..!)
Here's the lowdown on what we're reading right now. You never know, you might find your next favourite book down below...!
"I recently picked up ‘You Are Here’ by David Nicholls and he has made another romantic hit again! I found this book relatable and is a story of second chances, adventure and the importance of friendship. Fair warning: by the time you reach the last page, you might find yourself seriously tempted to look up walking holidays or buy a new pair of hiking boots!"
-- Jasmin
Hint: David Nicholls also wrote 'One Day' which became a hit Netflix series and a movie starring Anne Hathaway. Might be worth a read?
"I still remember the first time I picked up this book—it was what first sparked my love for prehistoric history. Most history books I had read before this one were textbooks, but this book is so accessible. As you read it you feel that you are there with Neil as he shows you the artifacts and explains their significance to the era. His passion for the subject really shows and is contagious. Great for fans of Alice Roberts and Dan Snow."
-- Jasmin
"I'm about half way through this as I write and so far, it has all the makings of an unforgettable thriller. Those who know me, know I like my fiction quite dark, and this certainly delivers!"
-- Matthew
For fans of Gone Girl and other character-driven crime thriller fiction.
"This isn't something I'd have immediately picked up because I'm not often attracted to magical fantasy, but SO many customers were recommending this in the store that I had to have a go. It starts with a man getting his head knocked clean off and the only witness is a ghost -- I was hooked from the very beginning. Aaronovitch's writing is visceral and humorous in equal measure, making this an enjoyable read."
-- Matthew
"The Extremely Embarassing Life of Lottie Brooks" by Katie Kirby
"Our 10-year old is positively hooked by the Lottie Brooks series! It captures her pre-teen angst and awkwardness with unrivalled humour and wit. Definite recommendation for anyone with a daughter aged 8-12!"
-- Matthew and Jasmin
Look out for other books in the Lottie Brooks series including 'The Completely Chaotic Chrismas of Lottie Brooks' -- out now!
"Arthur and the Golden Rope" by Joe Todd-Stanton
"This was our 5-year-old's first foray into graphic novels and now he is obsessed! This story is part of a series which gently introduces kids to history and world mythology without ramming it down their throats. With excellent storytelling and intricate, beautiful illustrations, this is a must-read for young readers and reluctant readers alike!"
-- Matthew and Jasmin
"As a family, we are a big fan of Usborne books, and this '100 Things to Know' series is an excellent way to introduce kids to some really important and heavy subjects in a positive and enjoyable way."
-- Matthew & Jasmin
Take a look in-store for other Usborne titles in the 'Very First Questions and Answers' series and other lift-the-flap childrens' books.