The Books That Made Cathy

"I have been a bookseller for about 12 years now and it happened totally by default!  I had just left my job and Sue, who I have known since our children were young,  asked if I could come and help out and I have never left! (well only briefly and I missed it too much) I have spent most of my working life in the public sector and love that this job offers the same opportunities to work face to face with the people. I have always enjoyed reading but have had my horizons completely widened by working in the shop learning so much from my colleagues. Contemporary fiction is probably my favourite genre along with anything vaguely medical, fiction or non-fiction. I have yet to be convinced that magical realism, sci-fi or fantasy will ever be on my to be read pile.  I’m very lucky to have had this opportunity and enjoy every day I’m working, thanks Sue!"

Why I Chose The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C S Lewis

"The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe was a book I remember being read to me by my parents.  I loved the possibility that there could be another world through the back of a wardrobe. I was enchanted by the characters of Mr Tumnus and Mr and Mrs Beaver, frustrated that Edmund could be so easily taken in by the White Witch and slightly terrified by Aslan.  At the time I  was totally unaware of the symbolism of the storyline but the sense of good and evil,  right and wrong made an impression on me."

Why I Chose Malory Towers by Enid Blyton
 
"The Malory Towers books were always a favourite once I could read independently.  The fun of being at boarding school, the friendships, the escapades I really engaged with.  I think the Last Term stayed with me because all the characters were about to embark on their adult lives, with all the excitement and apprehension that brought.  I love that adult customers buy this series because of their fond memories of it as children."

Why I Chose All Passion Spent by Vita Sackville West 

"All Passion Spent is a book I read in later life.  I just love the premise that whatever age you are, you can change your life and surprise everyone.  Lady Slane has spent all her married life pleasing other people, behaving as expected but when her husband dies she astounds her family by announcing she wishes to become a painter. It is a much more entertaining read than it may first appear, give it a go."  

Why I Chose This Too Shall Pass by Julia Samuel 

"This Too Shall Pass I read because, as my colleagues will tell you, most books medical and psychological reads are my thing! At a book event several years ago now I heard Julia Samuel talk about her work and life and immediately was taken by her warmth, insightfulness and great sense of humour.  The book deals with the various changes that many people will experience in their life and despite how challenging this will be there is a way through.  It is a very hopeful and positive read about human frailty,  resilience and the realisation all things do pass."

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