Notebook and Journal

On the count down to 1st - this book came 8th and only scored 3 stars. I honestly can't remember it so on that basis, I am not recommending it. I dare say that this book was too clever for its own good.

The book, while receiving only three stars from the book club, is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts, covering a captivating era of English history. Specifically, the period surrounding Charles I's beheading and England's subsequent republican phase under Oliver Cromwell, followed by the restoration of the monarchy with Charles II. Under the Act of Oblivion, the 59 individuals who signed Charles I's death warrant are sought for treason, which forms the basis of this story. Despite its length and intricate details that contributed to its lower rating during the book club meeting, I highly recommend it, especially for fans of historical fiction. Most book club members shared this sentiment upon reflection...

Reflecting on the 11 books that our book club went through last year, I've realised that it's more exciting to disclose them from the least favourite to the most. Over the next few posts, I'll gradually reveal the remaining 10 books, counting down in reverse order...

Coming in last, we have "Lincoln in the Bardo" which we read back in May. Regrettably, a significant portion of our group found it quite dull and bewildering. The numerous narrators and overlapping narrative seemed to be a common source of frustration, despite recognition for its cleverness and literary acclaim. It didn't resonate well with most of us, unfortunately.........

I found this book to be more appealing than most in my book club. Some readers took issue with the talking dog character, and not everyone was a fan of Elizabeth Zott. However, its straightforward narrative makes it a great book recommendation...

I only just realised I haven’t reviewed last months book club book ! It was Summer by Ali Smith. I have to admit no one in book group liked it. I did not understand what was happening most of the time, it didn’t flow or make sense to me. Maybe you have to read the other 3 books in the quartet first. Forgetting to review it here sort of says all !! But I did record and score it in my Book Club Journal. If you are in a book club and want a great gift for you or your friends (and like supporting small businesses) you can find a link to my website in my bio 😃 Thank you 🙏.

Do you have a hobby that has developed into a business? Creating these notebooks is a hobby for me, they are all notebooks I wanted so I thought others might too. Some I created and used but they have not been as ‘life changing’ as intended. So I have removed them from the range. Now I have refined it to 6 core ranges which have evolved into the best versions possible !! I’m so happy these are selling well so I know it’s not just me who thinks so !! I’m not going to create many more (I have a 2 others on the horizon). My motto for 2021 is quality over quantity.

As you can see … we have a theme going here. I can say my desk is now complete. I feel so organised!! Log-in, no problem 😊 Lots to do, no problem it’s on the list 😊 When will it get done? no problem it’s in the diary 😊 I hope you like the matching covers, inspired to create a calm natural feel 😁

NEW NOTEBOOK…. I am so excited to announce my latest edition. To-do List notebook. I have been using mine and it has revolutionised my life. Each spread can be labelled or themed. So I have one for each of my various work projects, cleaning, social media and I did have one list labelled ‘Portugal Holiday’ until that was cancelled!! And I am slowly ticking them off. I love knowing I won’t forget anything because it’s ‘on the list’. If you only buy one of my notebooks this is the one…..you will say “it changed my life” 😄 SPECIAL OFFER £3.99 notebookandjournal.com (posted free via Amazon) 💭

My book club book this month was Small Island by Andrea Levy - which tuned out to be a big hit with all members. In short the story is told through 4 main characters first person narration. A Jamaican couple and a white British couple. Which makes it very distinct as you see each persons point of view. If you want to understand what life was like for the Windrush generation and life in post war London- this book expertly touches on so many issues. Very thought provoking and beautifully written. Our club scored this book scored 37. Just 1 point behind Shuggie Bain this years favourite so far.

Are you a dog or cat person - or both? (I love both). They say dogs come when they’re called, cats take a message and get back to you later 😊 This cute little book is the perfect place to keep track of your pets health and general diary of observations. It’s useful to make note of general well-being or behaviors you may later want to discuss with an expert. Besides vaccinations, dates of flea, tick and worm treatments it’s useful for keeping an eye on puppies all the way through to senior pets. Also a nice gift at just £4.99. See notebookansjournal.com to purchase your copy.

Sunday 20th June is Father’s Day in the UK. I’m not that into gift giving or for that matter gift receiving on these sort of ‘days’. Although I do appreciate a day off cooking on Mother’s Day. So for this reason I think this ‘Dads Recipes’ is the perfect Father’s Day gift. It’s called mental conditioning !! And before you know it Daddy has a few dishes he can pull out the bag next time you’re entertaining or mummy wants a long bath. It’s the gift that keeps on giving (or at least it gives him the hint). 🤣