Hi everyone! I’m back after a long summer holiday break. We are fully settled into the swing of things; school started back just about 2 weeks ago and our routine is back to normal again. Not that we had much of a summer in the first place, a handful of nice sunny days but mainly a lot of rain. Autumn is definitely on its way. I just checked Zaragoza on my weather app and can’t believe the difference!
I have lots to share with you about books and tv. I must start with the big one. Game of Thrones. Who has been watching it? How amazing was this series? Don’t worry, I won’t post any spoilers here, although I’d love to go into more detail about it! If you haven’t watched an episode you have plenty of time to catch up as the final season isn’t out until 2019. I don’t know how we are expected to wait until then, I am desperate to know what happens next! I had forgotten just how good it was but I am hooked again, so I’m planning to start all the DVDs from the beginning to fill the gap. I’m used to having Jon Snow on my screen again.
My book of the summer was “The Innocent Man” by John Grisham. This was different from Grisham’s usual stories as this is non-fiction. I am fascinated with anything to do with crime, especially death row in America. I have watched hundreds of documentaries and this book didn’t disappoint. What a story it was! At times, I had to remind myself this isn’t fiction. I read it in one sitting and stayed up until 3am because I couldn’t put it down. Yes, my eyes stung a bit the next morning when my girls woke up bright and early, but it was so worth it. I cannot recommend it highly enough. My next read is Corpus by Rory Clements, a spy thriller set in 1930s. Once I’m finished I’ll let you know how I get on.
As you all know I am obsessed with all things Harry Potter. Here in the UK Primark have started selling a full Harry Potter range (PJs and home wear!) I’ve started texting my husband pictures of the PJs I like and hope he takes the hint for my birthday in October! In addition to this magical range, JK Rowling’s other book series written under her pseudonym (her false name; Robert Galbraith) has started on BBC as a drama series. I’m sure you will be able to catch up on BBC iPlayer and watch it. It is based on the book The Cuckoo’s Calling. Usually I hate tv shows and movies adapted from my favourite books because they never live up to my high expectations, I can’t even watch the Harry Potter movies without feeling annoyed about changed bits or bits that have been left out. However, I must admit this has been great. If you are unable to watch it then you should read the book, it’s an easy book to follow and has a fantastic story.
I am also looking for some book advice from you. My dad loves reading in Spanish and everything about Spain. He lived there for a year when he was younger. I’d like to get him a book to read in Spanish, something quite simple as he hasn’t spoken Spanish properly for a long time! Have a think and please send me any recommendations you have!
And finally, I could write this blog without mentioning the terrible attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils. I felt incredibly sad hearing the news, as I have every time one of these attacks take place. The Cambrils one shocked me. Cambrils and Tarragona are my favourite places to go on holiday and I cannot imagine that sadness and horror people went through, somewhere that holds so many happy memories. I hope you and your families are all safe and well.
Lots of love
Gemma xoxo