#insightful and timely debut single from Classic Twist – the fresh | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

askamydaily · 3 years

Text

This year -- put a Book on EVERY Bed

This year: put a Book on EVERY Bed

By “Ask Amy” advice columnist Amy Dickinson

10 December, 2020

Dear Readers: Every year at Christmastime, I delight in promoting a Book on Every Bed. I do so in memory of my mother, Jane, who raised her children to understand that if you have a book, you are never alone.

The idea originally came from historian David McCollough, who recounted the Christmas mornings of his youth, when the very first thing he woke up to was a wrapped book at the base of his bed, left there by Santa.

The most important part is what happens next: Family members reading together.

That’s it! That’s the whole idea!

Over the last ten years, working with my local literacy partner Children’s Reading Connection (childrensreadingconnection.org), this campaign has grown to include schools, libraries and bookstores, who have donated scores of books to families that might not have access to them. The goal – and our dream – is that families will experience the intimate and personal connection of diving into and sharing stories, the way my mother and I did throughout her life.

Over the years, important literacy advocates, such as the Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden and LeVar Burton, and bestselling children’s authors Brad Meltzer and Peter Reynolds, have endorsed and helped to spread the good word.

This year is different. So many of us are alone, hurting, and separated from family and familiar holiday routines.

All of us – not just children – need a good book on our beds.

I have broadened the scope to include specific recommendations for books spanning all ages. I’ve reached out to some of my favorite writers, literacy advocates, and independent booksellers across the country for their special picks.

Whether you purchase a book or share an old favorite, I hope you will be inspired to put A Book on Every Bed this year. It is not necessary to make a Christmas deadline – this idea is one to sustain people throughout what might shape up to be a very long winter.

Following are recommendations for all age groups.

Baby and Toddlers: From Brigid Hubberman, Children’s Reading Connection, Ithaca, NY (childrensreadingconnection.org):

“Words are the language of love for babies. The best books for infants should be about the world they know. Parents should choose books to surround babies with an abundance of loving and delightful words.”

Baby Cakes, by Karma Wilson and Sam Williams

Haiku Baby, by Betsy E. Snyder

Shine Baby Shine, by Leslie Staub and Lori Nichols

Ages 3-5: From Lisa Swaze, Buffalo Street Books, Ithaca, NY (Buffalostreetbooks.com)

“If You Come to Earth,” by Sophie Blackall is one of my favorite picture books of 2020. This book is beautiful both visually and lyrically, and it will feel like a warm hug to any child or family who receives it.

“You Matter,” by Christian Robinson is a bright and elegant book that takes children on a journey around the world to make it clear that everyone matters, and perhaps more importantly, reassure them that they matter, no matter what they look like or where they are from.

Early Readers: From Sandra Dear, owner of The Little Boho Bookshop, in Bayonne, NJ (thelittlebohobookshop.com)

“The Suitcase,” by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros: This beautiful story about immigration, is full of heart and humanity as it teaches our littlest ones about hope, tolerance and kindness.

“Home in the Woods,” by Eliza Wheeler: This stunningly beautiful picture book has fast become a customer favorite. A story about starting over, of overcoming! A story of family, love and joy of being and growing together.

Middle Grade Readers: From Becky Anderson, co-owner of Anderson’s Bookshop, in Naperville, Illinois (andersonsbookshops.com):

“Ways to Make Sunshine,” by Renee Watson: Watson writes her own version of Ramona Quimby, one starring a Black girl and her family, in this start to a charming new middle grade series about spirit, kindness, and sunshine. Ryan, a fourth grader, finds the positive in difficult situations and when trouble strikes. She is that character to love and bring in the sunshine! Grades 3-6

Skunk and Badger by Amy Timberlake, illustrated by Jon Klassen: Winnie-the-Pooh and Frog and Toad meet in a fresh take on a classic odd-couple friendship. Klassen’s illustrations add much to a story of an unlikely friendship that proves that opposites can see the good in one another. The first in a series. Grades 3-7

“The Silver Arrow,” by Lev Grossman: Kate’s humdrum life is transformed when her eccentric Uncle Herbert brings her a colossal locomotive train, the Silver Arrow, as her eleventh birthday gift, leading her and her younger brother on a mysterious journey. The train will remind readers of the Hogwart’s Express. A story that is environmentally aware and calls readers to action. Perfect for fans of Roald Dahl and The Chronicles of Narnia. Grades 3-7

YA Readers: Danielle Kreger, Blue Bunny Books, Dedham, MA (bluebunnybooks.com): "One of Us is Lying" by Karen M McManus: An edge of your seat mystery that takes place in Bayview High school during detention. Simon, a so-called "outcast," never makes it out of detention alive. What follows is a tale of twists and turns that has the reader questioning the reliability of the characters, and the secrets they keep.

"Burn" by Patrick Ness: A fast-paced young adult fantasy that begins with fifteen-year-old Sarah, who meets Kazimir – a dragon who has been hired to help on her family's farm. Still reeling from the death of her mother, Sarah finds herself feeling an intense and unusual connection with Kazimir. As the story unfolds secrets, dangers and Kazimir's true purpose are revealed.

"The New Kid" by Jerry Craft: A spot-on graphic novel about navigating a new school, new friends and identity. Jordan Banks is in seventh grade when he is sent to a rigorous private school and grapples with staying true to himself- his love for creating cartoons, how to maintain his old friends and how he fits in in a less than diverse new school. A totally lovable and relatable character!

Adult Non-fiction: From Alex George, the author, most recently, of The Paris Hours, founder and director of the Unbound Book Festival, and the owner of Skylark Bookshop, in Columbia, MO (skylarkbookshop.com)

“Wintering,” by Katherine May: This is a deeply personal, quietly beautiful book, written with grace and immense thoughtfulness. We all go through difficult times; by mulling over her responses to her own misfortunes, the author offers insight as to how we might think differently about low points in our lives. Instructive, inspiring, and ultimately profoundly hopeful.

“The Book of Delights,” by Ross Gay: This utterly charming book of micro-essays by Ross Gay, a beloved and renowned poet, is a perfect gift for – well, just about anyone. Gay set himself the challenge of finding one thing that delighted him each day for a year, and then writing about it. The result is a quirky, brilliant book that you can dip in and out of, always finding something to make you smile, and think. A guaranteed lifter of spirits.

“Intimations: Six Essays,” by Zadie Smith: I’ve always loved Zadie Smith’s nonfiction work, and this small but powerful book shows her talents at their finest. Written during the pandemic, these six pieces are sharp, and funny, and thought-provoking. Smith’s deeply personal reflections on this strangest of years is essential reading. If ever there was a book for these strange times, it’s this one.

Adult Fiction: Mark LaFramboise, Senior Book Buyer at Politics and Prose in Washington, DC (politics-prose.com)

“The Butterfly Lampshade,” by Aimee Bender: This is a beautiful story of mental illness, the bonds of sisterhood, and the liveliness of a child's imagination. Francie is 8 years old when the book begins, the daughter of a single mom. This is the story of her odyssey after her mother is committed to a mental hospital, and she is sent to be raised by an aunt and uncle.

“Luster,” by Raven Leilani: Edie, the young protagonist in Luster, Raven Leilani's debut novel, is daring, sexy, hilarious, super smart, and drop dead beautiful. Her affair with a married man takes a turn for the strange when she meets and befriends the man's wife and daughter. Edie is whip smart because Raven Leilani is whip smart and her voice propels this beguiling novel.

“What Are You Going Through,” by Sigrid Nunez: Sigrid Nunez writes so beautifully that plot feels irrelevant. The writer's confidence and authority are apparent from the first page. Ultimately, it's the story of a woman who is asked by an old college acquaintance to be with her when she takes her life, after a cancer diagnosis. But, like her previous book The Friend (about a woman who inherits a large Great Dane), it doesn't matter what story she tells because her words bristle with life.

Elders: Gayle Shanks, Changing Hands Bookstore, in Tempe and Phoenix, AZ

(changinghands.com)

“Apeirogon,” by Colum McCann: Two fathers, one Palestinian and one Israeli have both lost their young daughters to violence but have decided that reconciliation, not revenge, is what they needed to seek. In the process, they became best friends. McCann describes the insanity and senseless violence bred in the Middle East, the Occupation under which the Palestinians are forced to live, but also the beauty of the country, the migration of birds, the many ways humans overcome adversity and find solace in the natural world and each other. In a series of 1001 fragments, McCann walks us through his imaginary polygon, the Apeirogon of the title, containing an infinite number of sides, an infinite number of gorgeous sentences, and ultimately an infinite number of ways to view the human condition.

“All the Way to the Tigers,” by Mary Morris: Travel writer Mary Morris’ book, written in small chapters, was in some ways similar to reading Colum McCann's, Aperagon, also written in small bits (in his case 1001, in Mary's -- 112 chapters). Morris travels to India in search of the elusive Bengal tiger, but in so many ways she is searching for herself and her place in the world as she recovers from a serious ankle injury that leaves her debilitated but determined.

In her short vignettes, she quotes Rilke, Wendell Berry, other writers she admires and reminds us how important it is to listen intently to others as in active listening we are rewarded with deeper understanding.

“The Chair Rocks,” by Ashton Applewhite: From childhood on, we’re barraged by messages that it’s sad to be old. That wrinkles are embarrassing, and old people useless. Author and activist Ashton Applewhite believed them too—until she realized where this prejudice comes from and the damage it does. Lively, funny, and deeply researched, This Chair Rocks traces Applewhite’s journey from apprehensive boomer to pro-aging radical, and in the process debunks myth after myth about late life. The book explains the roots of ageism—in history and in our own age denial. Whether you’re older or hoping to get there, this book will shake you by the shoulders, cheer you up, make you mad, and change the way you see the rest of your life. Age pride!

#Ask Amy #Amy Dickinson #Book on Every Bed #literacy #books #independent bookshop #book recommendations #changing hands bookstore #politics and prose #skylark bookshop #Blue Bunny Books #Childrens Reading Connection #Buffalo Street Books

7 notes · View notes

paul-tudor-owen · 5 years

Text

The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen – reviews

My novel The Weighing of the Heart was nominated for the Guardian Not the Booker Prize. Here are some of the reviews from people who kindly voted for it.

You can buy the book here.

Beth Parry

Vote 1: Paul Tudor Owen, The Weighing of the Heart

Funny, moving and captivating all at once; a beautiful enactment of the unusual adventures that materialise from seemingly ordinary twists and turns in life. Owen is a brilliant observer of people and their deepest instincts.

Lualabear

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen

- This story of obsession, crime and mystery pulls you along with its fast-paced plot and unexpected twists and clever ending. The book has sparked an ongoing debate between me and my partner, which is a good sign of a successful book. Is the protagonist Nick a reliable narrator? Is it Nick who is leading Lydia or the other way round? Do people in the Big Apple really eat out so much?

Tudor Owen has a distinctive voice and throughout he conjours up a compelling vision of New York. He is clearly a writer who knows and loves the city and it shines through in this confident debut.

Plus it has characters called the Peacock sisters. What's not to like?

Christina456

VOTE 1:

Paul Tudor Owen: The Weighing of the Heart

A love story with a twist, set in NYC, beautifully written. Wonderful debut novel, real page turner, that I thoroughly enjoyed. I learned a lot about ancient Egyptian mythology and loved the mood, the characters and the New York feeling the book conveys.

davegat

Vote 1 - Paul Tudor Owen - The Weighing of the Heart

I read TWOTH in a single sitting - I found the plot so intriguing and the central character so engaging that, clichéd as this sounds, I couldn't put it down. As this Auster-esque tale unfolded, I began to question a lot of what I’d initially taken for granted about Nick Braeburn, the aptly (and appley) named Englishman struggling for success in the Big Apple, and needed to read parts of it twice. This stunning debut novel has much to recommend it, but something I particularly liked was the research the author had done into ancient Egyptian art, which took me back to childhood visits to the museum in Manchester - the hometown that Nick, Paul and I all left behind.

ID9836338

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart, by Paul Tudor Owen

A great debut novel by an author who's managed to bring a lot of different threads in to one short but gripping story. New York comes to life in a way I've not experienced before and the readers relationship with the protagonist is as curious as the plot he leads. A wonderful read.

Carolinechatwin

VOTE 1: Paul Tudor Owen: the weighing of the heart.

Owen’s debut novel pushes all the right buttons. The characters are well drawn and the author makes effective use of anecdotes from the protagonist’s life to draw the reader in and keep them interested. What begins as a light hearted romance set against the backdrop of NYC, ends as something darker and more troubling. I stumbled across it my accident in an Islington local bookshop and read it in one sitting. Recommended!

Wutheredangel

1. The weighing of the heart by Paul Tudor Owen is a haunting and unusual exploration of the psyche of a young man in New York. It’s a psychological love story with a dark side. But at the same time it’s funny, engagingly readable, and brimming with enthusiasm for the New York lifestyle.

MariCarmen89

Vote 1 - The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen. The plot was so gripping that I read the whole book in 2 days. Bringing together the art world, ancient mythology, a deep love and admiration for New York City and all it represents, complex literary techniques and engaging dialogue, this debut novel is a must-read!

Metropolitan247

Vote 2- Weighing of the Heart - Paul Tudor Owen - great insight into New York!

Ankahu

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen. Fabulous debut novel! Was immersed in the intriguing storyline. Loved the ancient Egyptian mythology which interweaves with the modern day New York the characters inhabit. You walk the streets of New York with the protagonist and really want things to work out for him. Excited to read more by this author.

Ahh6356

VOTE 1 - The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen (Obliterati Press)

Review of the Weighing of the Heart

This book draws in the reader from the start and keeps the pace throughout. The author cleverly reveals more about his main character as the story progresses, while keeping you guessing until the end. Characters are very well drawn and the descriptions of New York make it easy to picture the surroundings. The story combines crime, mystery and humour and is a great read.

JenniferJuan

Vote 1

The Weighing Of The Heart by Paul Tudor Owen

It's difficult to believe that this is the author's first novel sometimes. He does a great job of bringing New York to wherever the reader is, and helping them to fall in love with it, the way that he has. There is clearly a lot of passion that has gone into this book, and it is a fresh take on the clasdic New Yorker novel.

LyndseyR23

My vote is for Paul Tudor Owen – The Weighing of the Heart (Obliterati Press) I was captivated by the authors rich descriptions of New York, the tenuous relationship between the two main characters and the Ancient Egyptian motifs that occur throughout. Owen does a brilliant job of, little by little, offering deeper glimpses into the mind of the protagonist - Nick Braeburn - and effortlessly distorts reality as Braeburn begins to unravel. Compelling and original writing from a truly promising author.

KevRichardson

Vote 1. The Weighing Of The Heart by Paul Tudor Owen

A unique, New York set thriller-cum-romance-cum-art heist novel about a young Englishman who rents a room from elderly, wealthy New Yorker sisters ,and persuades a Portuguese woman who is renting another room to help him steal a priceless piece of art from them. Very much in the traditional of classic New Yorker novels and highly recommended.

Anna Helen Pickering

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart, Paul Tudor Owen

The Weighing of the Heart is a love story and a mystery. Lightly comical in parts its grip increases as the story progresses and the lives of the initially-aloof characters become more and more entwined. The descriptions of place and people are evocative and sweep you into the New York world of the characters, making us wonder if we would do the same thing if the opportunity presented itself.

NotJohnWayne

VOTE #1: "The Weighing of the Heart."

A classy, stylish novel about love, crime, art and madness. Gripped me from the first sentence and I honestly couldn't put it down.

2raggedclaws

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen.

The story of deviant artist Nick Braeburn and his pursuit of his desires amidst the old money of New York's Upper East Side had me gripped instantly. This is a shockingly assured first novel; funny, thrilling and hallucinatory, with echoes of the most enjoyable elements of Highsmith and Dostoyevsky. I didn't come away trusting Nick, or wanting him anywhere near my life, but I deeply missed inhabiting his world. I couldn't ask for more in a book.

RachelELane

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart, by Paul Tudor Owen.

Review of The Weighing of the Heart: Set in New York, and told through the narration of main character Nick Braeburn, Paul Tudor Owen weaves an impressive tale of New York possibilities, Ancient Egyptian art, and a passionate but fragile love affair. Emboldened by a seemingly straightforward opportunity to improve their lot, Nick and artist, Lydia, commit a crime that all at once realises their desires and triggers the steady crumbling of everything, including their relationship and perception of what's real.

This book is written so authentically, and pulls you in so completely, that it becomes almost oppressive, and despite it being a compelling page-turner, I had to put it down and walk away at one point because I was too stressed with how things were unfolding. To elicit that response from a reader in a debut novel is talent indeed, and I eagerly await the next offering from Paul Tudor Owen. A fabulous read.

Ellelong1

My first vote is for The Weighing of the Heart.

I loved being swept away to New York, its excitement and thrill and darker undercurrents. The narrator is a brilliant addition to the literary strand of outsiders who’ve told their tales of life in the City. As Nick Braeburn’s story unfolds, the author conjures that feeling of never quite being able to own New York, to make it yours and know it completely; and in a neat parallel the reader begins to wonder whether Nick is telling the truth, or whether he is as inscrutable as the city he loves.

I also really enjoyed the use of Ancient Egyptian imagery, which ushered in vague memories of primary school history and seems to tie in neatly with periods of New York’s architectural history, with so many key buildings built on classical and monumental lines. The painting at the heart of the book became so real to me that I sneakily searched for the artist on the internet – I love being convinced that a real-world element has found its way into a book.

The twists and turns of the plot make it a compelling and fast-paced read – highly recommended.

passionaria

My first vote goes toThe Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen (Obliterati Press), the story of a young English man in New York, his first relationship and how it ends and the move to rent an apartment from two elderly ladies who seem to be a bit “Grey Gardens” and slightly sinister. He meets and falls in love with a beautiful fellow lodger who is an artist. He works in a gallery and we learn a lot about the NY art world, and about the Egyptology that has always been Nick’ passion, and which he finds his landladies share. They hatch a wicked plot that ultimately leads to their downfall and brushes with NY’s seamy underbelly. There are hints throughout the book, but the ending came as a complete shock to me and took my breath away. I don’t want to say anything that might be a spoiler, so please read it for yourself.

AMichaelKay

Vote 1. The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen (Obliterati Press).

A beautifully written debut novel about a young Englishman, Nick, living in an Upper East Side apartment in New York. His mysterious landladies, the Peacock sisters and the other tenant, Lydia, have an increasing effect on his life as things take a sinister turn. I particularly liked the way Nick's state of mind took on a dream like quality as things started to unravel for him. The intrigue and suspense continue right to the end. I also liked the Egyptology references throughout the book. Highly recommended.

GGID2080179

First vote - Paul Tudor Owen – The Weighing of the Heart (Obliterati Press)

I loved reading this fantastically paced novel. The main character begins to unravel as the novel develops and the stakes continually increase. The plot is beautifully linked with Egyptology that adds a fascinating dimension and I loved the portrayal of the New York that Nick and Lydia inhabit. I was totally gripped and loved every minute of reading this. I particularly enjoyed the final third of the book as things really start to unravel for Nick and his grip loosens on his world. I’m really looking forward to reading more from the author in the future.

allen twyning

Vote 1 - Paul Tudor Owen - the weighing of the heart. A heartfelt tribute to the Big Apple. Owen in his debut novel gives us a touching almost palpable account of his times in New York. Emotions are raw as we explore the city through his eyes. The relationships explored throughout the book feel genuine and any reader can tell this is a true labour of love for the author. It’s an incredible piece of work and leaves the reader eager to see what this promising young author does next. Truly incredible.

jjsmclaughlin

VOTE 1: The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen (Obliterati Press)

The Weighing of the Heart is so compulsively readable that everyone I lent it to, like me, read it in no more than a day and a half. The story rattles along at a feverish pace, which sort of mirrors the narrator's thoughtless way of living. It's also very funny. It's supposed to be a mystery, but the reader is duped as much as the characters. Kinda reminded me of Bret Easton Ellis; Funny, absurd and mischievous.

Susi51

Vote 1, Paul Tudor Owen, The Weighing of the Heart.

Wow a fabulous debut novel, I loved it. It is definitely a page turner, I read it in two days! It is an intriguing and tense mystery with characters that really draw you in. Set in modern day New York with ancient Egyptian mythology, there are twists and turns and some humour. The main character is a young English man, Nick, who soon becomes obsessed with a The Weighing of the Heart piece of art work and wants it at any cost!!!! I can't say anymore without giving the whole story away. After the introduction of the art work in the book I checked to see if it was really ancient Egyptian mythology. Oh my, it is, obsession is not good!!!

Isobellong

Vote 1: Paul Tudor Owen - The Weighing of the Heart.

A pleasure to read from cover to cover - at once thrilling and thought-provoking. What appears to be an already intriguing love story becomes a cinematic journey through New York, the representation of which perfectly describes its timelessness.

A must read.

MrHandsomeBWonderful

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen (Obliterati)

Really enjoyed this book - very accomplished for a first-time novelist. Difficult to review without giving too much away, but the central character, Nick, is very well drawn and convincing as a narrator, with just enough glimpses beyond what he's saying to give you pause, and lead you on in the story. I think it would merit a re-read just to pick up on the clues once you've finished the book. I enjoyed the author's ear for dialogue, and particularly, given Nick's 'Englishman in New York' remove from a stable set of peers, overheard phrases that he chooses to write down - I've not seen this done before and it's very effective. There's a wry sense of humour that permeates the book, which makes the change in tone as the book goes on more jarringly effective. There's also a slightly dreamy, ethereal quality that's reminiscent of Jeffrey Eugenides or Emma Cline, and the pacing is very Patricia Highsmith in terms of propelling the reader to the end.

alexbuxton

Vote 1 - The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen

A tour de force of a book. Paul Tudor Owen not only has an excellent middle name, but also a gift for storytelling that makes this a real joy to read. As he's the writer, not me, I won't make this too long, but would simply urge you to read this now. Your summer will thank you for it. Evoking a stylish, at times menacing, New York, and bringing to mind all sorts of crime noir books but with an oh so original take, this gripped me from start to finish. As sexy and otherworldly as a book rooted in the very real world can be. No mean feat.

ArabellaFT

VOTE 1 - 'The Weighing of the Heart' by Paul Tudor Owen

I very much enjoyed this excellent debut novel. It's not a standard crime story, and it develops into an engrossing mystery as the reader begins to question the motivations of the characters and whether all is really as it seems. It has a slightly dreamlike quality, which works well with the references to Ancient Egyptian mythology. This is a book that can be read and re-read, there's so much attention to detail and the characters are each fascinating in their own way.

Tudor Owen

(1) The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen.

An exciting read this, as we ponder the reliability of the narrator, the tension of the crime and whether we (the parents of the author) appear in any thinly disguised form in the narrative. We don't and so we VOTE for this book. David and Sue Owen

simplicitydrifter

Tudor Owen

Have a recommend for your refreshing honesty.

MrKelly2u

VOTE 1: THE WEIGHING OF THE HEART by PAUL TUDOR OWEN

Original plot, perfectly pitched atmosphere and a great premise. Excellent read.

gpwigglesworth

Vote 1: Paul Tudor Owen – The Weighing of the Heart (Obliterati Press) I loved this book. A young man moves to New York and fortuitously takes up residence in a stylish apartment with 2 elderly sisters. What follows is a tale of art, love and theft with a touch of madness - all set withing the brilliantly realised bustle of New York City. This is an excellent debut from a very talented writer. There are echoes of Donna Tartt (no bad thing of course) though this is very much it's own book. I like a book that keeps you guessing keeps you enthralled and this certainly does that. I look forward to Mr Tudor Owen's next tome!

kkumaria

My vote goes to Paul Tudor Owen’s The Weighing of the Heart (by Obliterati), which - in addition to being wonderfully evocative of the energy of New York for the twenty-something - brilliantly builds a thrilling tale of obsession and recklessness.

pauldhull

I would like to vote for The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen. I rattled through this debut novel in a few days. A well paced plot and a page-turner in the best sense of the term. The ending also left me satisfied and avoided sentimentalism. Covering modern life in New York and Ancient Egypt there is something for everyone here.

stevetamburello

Vote:

1 The Weighing of the Heart - Paul Tudor Owen

Review:

I've never been to New York but within a few pages I was fully immersed in the city through the eyes of Nick Braeburn, as he finds his place in the New World in the spirit of the great American novels like Catcher in the Rye or On the Road. But before you realise, it all takes a less than ideal turn. The constant presence of the Egyptian gods added an interesting layer to the story and there's plenty to mull over when the book is done. A writer to watch..

Richard Luscombe

Vote 1: The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen

Review of The Weighing of the Heart: This is a brisk-paced modern New York tale spun around an art "heist" with a difference. Two young expat artists trying to find their way in the Big Apple meet and fall in love and chance upon an opportunity to cheat their wealthy landladies... but at least one of the young lovers may not be exactly who they seem and their ingenious scam stands on the edge of discovery. In his debut novel Paul Tudor Owen paints a vivid picture of NYC's art scene blended with a colorful dive into Egyptian mythology.

anna88

Vote: The Weighing of the Heart, Paul Owen

The debut novel from Paul Owen is illustrative and captivating. Set in New York, the reader is immersed in the life of Englishman Nicholas Braeburn. Much of the city is left behind as the novel is largely set in the mysterious setting of the grand yet dilapidated house of the Peacock sisters. Nick's existence appears somewhat simple and romantic on the surface. However, this simplicity is gradually eroded throughout the novel. One action turns Nick's life around, changing the pace and feel of the second half of the book. With echos of Donna Tartt, this page turner is a must read. Really looking forward to seeing more from Paul Owen!

patmayne

Vote 1 - 'The Weighing of the Heart by Paul Tudor Owen (Obliterati Press)' I can't believe this is the Author's first novel. Set in New York, it captures the style and feel of the City as majestically as anything I've read by such literary luminaries as Auster, Tartt and Salinger. Beautifully written, accessible language and a slightly phantasmagorical story line (that taught me more about ancient Egyptian mythology than any school trip to a museum did!) this book deals with love, betrayal, identity and the age old question of the American Dream. I'd certainly recommend that you give it a go and I personally cannot wait to read more!

Bookphace

2nd VOTE for Paul Tudor Owen's The Weighing of the Heart. An impressive debut novel, it's economic prose but the overall sense is one of richness and substance with a finely woven plot and some balanced and contrasting characterisations.

#paul tudor owen #the weighing of the heart #reviews #book reviews #ancient egypt #new york city #novels

1 note · View note

thewickedsound · 3 years

Text

THE BEST JAZZ ALBUMS 2021 (SO FAR)

This album was recorded 45 years ago but sound so fresh like a recent release from a young band. Previously unreleased Marcos Resende & Index self-titled debut album from 1976, contributing a crucial missing work from the glory days of progressive Brazilian instrumental music. Resende in 76 after touring Europe with his previous band returned home to Brazil as an established highly regarded keyboardist, composer, and innovative electronic musician. Inspired and invigorated by US jazz and British progressive rock he'd experienced while residing in Europe, Resende went all out acquiring a keyboard arsenal to be reckoned with, which included the Prophet 5, Yamaha CP-708 and Mini Moog. Determined to integrate his newfound inspirations with Brazilian rhythms and jazz traditions, he formed a new quartet with Rubão Sabino (bass), Claudio Caribé (drums) and the late great Oberdan Magalhães, of Banda Black Rio and Cry Babies fame. Marcos Resende & Index recorded their self-titled debut at Sonoviso Studios with the legendary sound engineer Toninho Barbosa, known as the 'Brazilian Rudy Van Gelder' whose impressive resumé includes the era defining classics Light As A Feather by Azymuth, Previsão Do Tempo by Marcos Valle, and Quem É Quem by João Donato. Marcos Resende & Index fits perfectly amongst these masterpieces, sharing both the timeless ethereal qualities as well as the progressive and futuristic ideals of Light As A Feather in particular. Marcos Resende & Index by Marcos Resende & Index Mathias Modica's Sonic Rohstoff is the new album on Kryptox Music. Sonic Rohstoff is a journey through abstract downtempo vibes, lofi jazz and futuristic electronica. Most people might know Modica from his earlier works as a producer, keyboard player and founder/ creative mind behind Toy Tonics, Gomma and Kryptox. Over the past two decades he has made a name for himself by discovering and breaking new talent and styles of music. This is Modica's first album under his own name, following three albums under his monikers Kapote and Munk. All instruments are performed by Modica himself, embellished by guest musicians from the new Berlin Jazz scene. Sonic Rohstoff by Mathias Modica Zurich-based musician Arthur Hnatek is one of a new breed of players who see their music as a continuum stretching between genres, always thinking in terms of links rather than boundaries, possibilities rather than limits. His time spent playing drums with similarly adventurous and unclassifiable artists Tigran Hamasyan and Shai Maestro opened his ears to the possibilities of rhythmic variation: his immersion in electronic music production and the motorik tradition of Jaki Liebzeit alerted him the possibilities of repetition. Now, with Static, he presents his first trio record: joined by his equally fearless bandmates Fabien Iannone on bass and Francesco Geminiani on tenor sax, this is music created by classic jazz line-up and steeped in an improvisational facility, yet simultaneously utterly unlike anything in the standard jazz tradition. Static by Arthur Hnatek Trio

Marcelo Monteiro, a saxophonist from Sao Paulo, Brazil, has played with various Brazilian and international artists and at the same time was developing his own authorial work. Has excelled in the jazz scene in São Paulo, currently, he has performed with his group, which may be in trio, quartet or quintet version. With his group plays compositions of his own. His music follows the style of groove, funk and modern jazz, simple but very creative themes, with a hint of Brazilian swing. On his new album, Deyeh, he experimented with arrangements with flutes and saxophones, exploring the sound combining contemporary jazz, Brazilian rhythms, in a modern concept. The album was recorded remotely with each musician recording from their own home studio. Deyeh by Marcelo Monteiro

Sankofa by Amaro Freitas World-renowned drummer/composer, & producer/beatmaker, Myele Manzanza, has proved that he's an artist who continues to dissolve the borders between modern jazz and electronic beat production. Having released three solo albums, and racking up tours and collaborations with Jordan Rakei, Theo Parrish, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Recloose and Amp Fiddler amongst others. Myele is already developing a strong live presence in his new London base; his quartet has shared stages with the likes of Hiatus Kaiyote, The Bad Plus, Alfa Mist, and drawing packed houses to top venues such as The Jazz Café and Ronnie Scott's. Crisis & Opportunity Vol.1 - London features a top tier cast of young London based talent including Ashley Henry (piano), James Copus (trumpet), George Crowley (tenor saxophone), Benjamin Muralt (bass) and additional contributions from the legendary Mark de Clive-Lowe (synths), with Myele Manzanza (drums) captaining the ship. Crisis & Opportunity Vol. 1 - London by Myele Manzanza Kaidi Tatham is a legendary multi-instrumentalist. Once dubbed "the UK's Herbie Hancock" by Benji B, he's a virtuoso on the keys and a true innovator in sound production as one of the original creators of the Broken Beat sound. Over the years his musical prowess has blessed numerous projects, initially with the likes of Bugz In The Attic and The Herbaliser, and more recently with DJ Jazzy Jeff (through the PLAYlist projects), Andrew Ashong (on the acclaimed Sankofa Season EP last year) and with a longtime accomplice, Dego. This is in addition to session work for artists such as Mulatu Astatke, Slum Village or Amy Winehouse. An Insight To All Minds is Kaidi's 3rd solo album under his own name, following several EPs and two albums for First Word; 2018's acclaimed It's A World Before You and the re-press of his seminal 2008 sophomore album In Search Of Hope last year. An Insight To All Minds by Kaidi Tatham JAUBI continue the Nafs journey, which commenced with the single Satanic Nafs (featuring the remix by legendary LA producers The Gaslamp Killer & Mophono) released in March 2021. Now JAUBI draw on the elements of North Indian classical music, Hip-Hop and modal/spiritual jazz in their debut LP entitled Nafs At Peace. The journey officially began back in April 2019 when London's multi-instrumentalist and 22a Record label boss Ed "Tenderlonious" Cawthorne and Polish pianist/composer Marek "Latarnik" Pędziwiatr of EABS/Błoto, visited the group to record in Lahore. Together they channeled their personal struggles at that time into the two recording sessions allowing the musicians to find a spiritual path through this musical purge. Nafs at Peace by Jaubi Australian 9-piece Spiritual Jazz group Menagerie announce their highly anticipated third album 'Many Worlds', released 15th January 2021 on esteemed U.K label Freestyle Records. Menagerie is the Melbourne-based Jazz ensemble founded by producer, songwriter, guitarist, DJ and recording artist Lance Ferguson, also the driving force behind The Bamboos, Lanu, Rare Groove Spectrum and Machines Always Win. Recorded at Union Street Studio by award-winning engineer John Castle, 'Many Worlds' features some of Australia's finest musicians, including pianist Mark Fitzgibbon (a regular performer at Gilles Peterson and Patrick Forge's original Dingwalls sessions), drummer Daniel Farrugia and renowned saxophonist Phil Noy (The Bamboos). Inspired by both the post-Coltrane generation of the 70's, labels like Strata-East, Impulse! and Tribe, along with the current 'New Wave Of Jazz', Menagerie aligns with the world of Kamasi Washington, Shabaka Hutchings and Nubya Garcia, whilst also bringing their own unique twist. Many Worlds by Menagerie Astonishing new work from the fertile creative mind of tenor saxophonist-composer James Brandon Lewis. Performed by the Red Lily Quintet (James Brandon Lewis, Kirk Knuffke, William Parker, Chris Hoffman, Chad Taylor), an exceptional & singular inter-generational ensemble, this album speaks to the forever-evolving continuum of the jazz tradition. Voted Rising Star Tenor Saxophonist in the 2020 DownBeat Magazine International Critic's Poll, James Brandon Lewis supercharges his remarkable evolution with Jesup Wagon, a brilliant and evocative appreciation of the life and legacy of turn-of-the-19th century African-American musician-painter-writer-scientist George Washington Carver. Jesup Wagon by James Brandon Lewis / Red Lily Quintet

John Carroll Kirby's Septet album was recorded live in the studio with a range of talents playing keys, vibes, bass, percussion and drums. The composer and keyboardist leads the charge and approached the album wanting to play with the chaos of jazz fashion in the 70's/80's, bands like Weather Report and Miles Davis. He sure does that but there is beauty in the madness, with plenty of lush and golden keys dancing above lithe and ad hoc rhythms. Septet by John Carroll Kirby Matt Carmichael released his debut album on his own label, Porthole Music. He has already developed quite a profile and an impressive list of collaborations; he also reached the finals of BBC Young Jazz Musician 2020. His quartet, formed five years ago, consists of his contemporaries, award-winning Fergus McCreadie on piano, Ali Watson on bass and Tom Potter on drums. Like McCreadie, Carmichael creates music that feels highly personal, fusing an energetic yet sensitive modern jazz into a bedrock of Scottish traditional music. Where Will The River Flow by Matt Carmichael Taking cues from Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane at their most delicate, renowned Welsh harpist Amanda Whiting's mesmerizing Jazzman full-length LP After Dark arrives as soft as moonlight to gladden the soul and delight the ear-without forgetting to bring the swing. Summoning the nocturnal mood suggested by the album's title, Whiting's harp flows and cascades, dances and alights, broods and haunts, informed by a deep understanding of both classical and jazz music, ultimately revealing a top-drawer composer with rare melodic gifts at the top of her game. After Dark by Amanda Whiting JD73's Electrio - Pyramid is a colourful & energetic live recording session presenting 8 incredible pieces of music. Dan 'JD73' Goldman is known the world over for his contributions to the world of Jazz & modern electronic soul music and is backed up on Pyramid by Hamlet Luton (Bass) and Gordon Kilroy (Drums) completing the ElecTrio. Dan's ability to construct these incredible melodic gems centered on the sound of the Rhodes Piano is something to behold. This is a real collectors album and if you're a fan of Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Bob James & George Duke you need this on your record shelf for sure. Pyramid by JD73's ElecTrio Read the full article

0 notes