ARTS & CULTURE
This gem of an idea is a new take on a book subscription service, which is ideal if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the possibilities on offer. Every month, Rare Birds subscribers select one of two books based on a synopsis. That mystery read then arrives at your door, beautifully wrapped, with an accompanying bookmark depicting another classic. Once your read is revealed, you can dive straight in or take part in online discussions about each novel on the website. A subscription to Rare Birds is great for a reader who’s lost heart, or someone in need of a little literary encouragement. You can also browse the website and treat yourself to a lucky dip book. As we went to press, news broke that founder Rachel Wood is establishing an actual Rare Birds bookshop in Edinburgh that will only stock women writers. Though located at the other end of the UK, it’s well worth pointing out to any readers you know in Scotland’s capital – or adding to your own wish list for future adventures! Rare Birds Book Club
SLUG BY HOLLIE MCNISH Reading local writer Holly McNish’s books is like sitting down with your closest friend, and her latest is no exception. Subtitled ‘and other things I’ve been told to hate’, Slug is hilarious, reassuring, vengeful and empathetic all at once, with a mix of poetry and essayistic prose that’s perfect for either dipping in and out of or devouring in one go. McNish signposts the best ways to read the book in the foreword – but be warned: if you only planned a quick sesh, you might look up hours later wondering where the time went. Exquisitely relatable and staggeringly open, McNish is one of the best we have – this book would be the perfect gift for your very dearest pal.
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK AUGUST 2021 25
Powered by FlippingBook