Blackwell's St Andrews

We are a small academic bookshop, located at the heart of the historical town St. Andrews. We are an enthusiastic team of book-lovers, dedicated to meeting the needs of all of the Town and Gown/

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First coffee of the day as we prepare for this weeks blog post! #somethingnew #sneakpeak #3for2 #greatliterature #exciting #semester1 #standrews #freshers #lastdaysofsummer

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Special delivery! #newterm #excited #semester1 #academiclife #delivery #books #hardwork #heretohelp

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With the recent controversy over The Times early review of Bennedict Cumberbatch's Hamlet, Shakespeare has come back to the foreground, but did he ever really leave?

Shakespearean plays have always been a source of sweet-sorrow for most readers, with memories of the Bard being foisted on them in crammed and stuffy classrooms, stumbling through the odd syntax and boring soliloquy to reach an ending that never really made much sense. Right? In fact, the image of Shakespeare as a stuffy and turgid subject is beginning to fade. Many readers adore the classic works, and for those who want something more modern, there is no shortage of re-imaginings, re-workings and adaptations to get you in the poetic mood!

So why has Shakespeare's works survived with relatively abiding favour? There is a wealth of academic research looking at the man behind the works, the plausibility that he was one individual, the economic and social standing of the artist etc., but for the average reader arguably it is something far more dramatic than the mystery behind the author.

Shakespeare is known for having it all; history, violence, love, betrayal, murder, madness and mayhem. So here are our top 5 reasons why we LOVE Shakespeare!

one: History- Although far from unwaveringly accurate, Shakespeare's historical plays and tragedies bring the past to life, quite literally. They give students and readers an insight into the past in an emotive and colourful way, allowing for empathy and greater understanding. Has any Classics class ever been quite as lively as the famous scenes between Antony and Brutus?!

two: Romance - Romeo and Juliet may seem a bit old-hat, but nothing quite compares to your first reading. Or how about Ophelia and Hamlet? Cleopatra and Antony? Shakespeare plays are bursting with angst-ridden romantic souls, willing to die (quite literally) for the love of their life!

three: Speeches - 'If you prick us, do we not bleed?' Every play is bursting with beautiful, eloquent and heart-breaking speeches. You'll come across phrases that have leaked into modern usage and be astounded at their origin. The works of Shakespeare are riddled with some of the most beautiful poetry and we guarantee you will find a passage to move you to tears of joy and sorrow. [fun fact: 'The Fault in our Stars' is in fact a quote from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar]

four: Emotion - From laughter to heart-break, we challenge you to read any Shakespeare play and not feel SOMETHING real!

five: Action - These action-packed dramas have something for everyone. Many readers summarise a play by the main plot, but if you pay attention, there is a whole world and community of characters in each script, just waiting to be discovered. They all have their own motivations, loves and dramas, we know you'll relate to atleast one 'minor' Shakespeare character!

So there it is! The list could go on, but with these lengthy volumes to get through, we don't want to keep you any longer! Shakespeare really does have something for everyone, so don't worry about pretention and give one ago, in ANY medium! From plain-text translations to movie adaptations, we know you'll find one you adore!

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Rapunzel + Books

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Even Disney princess love a good book!

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Reading as a child is a true joy, but this week we want to encourage you to return to a childhood classic with your adult eyes. We guarantee some big smiles and surprises and maybe a tear or two.

Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll

This year is Alice's 150th birthday, and we can guarantee she has gotten no wiser with age! This cult classic has always been great fun but a little on the creepy side, but can your adult sensibilities cope with these wacky characters?

Peter Pan - JM Barrie

Barrie's novel is full of fun and adventure, but there is a definite sadness there that children often overlook. Experience the boy who never grew up as an adult, and learn the meaning of childhood all over again!

The Hunger Games- Suzanne Collins

These novels made a big splash in the teen fiction pool a while ago, and for good reason. Collins' dystopian world is irresistible, revolutionary and full of angst. As an adult reader, however; the lives of Katness, Prim and Peeta are terrifyingly tangible and heart breaking.

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Who can complaining about working this weekend when the company is this good? Rachel Joyce will raise a smile this Saturday afternoon whether you're on your lunch break or under the duvet! #3for2 #rainyday #smile #fun #racheljoyce #fantasticfiction #somethingnew

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Can't choose just one? That's okay! #3for2 #treatyourself #imaginationvacation #somethingnew #summerreading #summer2015

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Back in stock!

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Classics

Classical literature has had a complex past and as such is often avoided by non-academic readers. The beauty of Classical literature, however, is its appeal for all. From romance and battles, to philosophy and divinity, these texts span many genres.

The Aeneid - Virgil Aeneas is to be the founder of Rome, the one to save the survivors of the Trojan war and start the new race, favoured by the divine. The problem is, nothing in the ancient world was simple, and with monsters, trials and divine interference, Aeneas' path is anything but smooth.

The complete poems - Catallus

Do you enjoy a little Byron or Pope? Do you fine satire witty and amusing? Then Catallus  is your dream Roman poet. From romantic fragments to the down right rude, Carallus' works have been so infamous throughout history that it was the 1970s before a complete translated edition was made available!

Confronting the Classics- Mary Beard

Still not sure if the Classics are for you? Why not give the marvellous Mary Beard a go. Beard looks at the concept of 'classics', its history and prestige as well as modern usage to question whether classical studies are still relevant and what possible place they can play in the modern world.

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Some light summer picks

  The Woman who went to bed for a year - Sue Townsend

The Beaver twins have gone to university, and their mother has taken to bed. Everyone is convinced that Mrs Beaver is suffering from empty-nest syndrome, or maybe she's just mad, or selfish, or lazy... In a witty, funny and at times poignant novel, Townsend follows the lives of four neurotic family members, who have lost their way and are trying to discover who they are as individuals outside of the family unit.

Where'd you go Bernadette?  - Maria Semple

Bernadette has ran from one place to the next. She has found herself in Seattle, with a genius husband and straight A daughter, Bee. Despite her anxiety, Bernadette wants to be off again, this time, to Antarctica. A brilliant but neurotic woman, Bernadette is baffled and frustrated by the modern world. In a hilarious novel of self-discovery, Semple brings to light important issues of the self and relationships though an imaginative array of letters, journals, emails, invoices and monologues.

The truth about the Harry Quebert Affair - Joel Dicker

This well received novel was slow to start, but very quickly gripped me. The relationship between Harry and the author was tempestuous at times. The plot was well structured and twists and turns really surprised me. While the end was not what I expected, it did bring closure. I would highly recommend it!

Personal - Lee Child

19th in the Jack Reacher series, this follows his usual pattern of being very pacey and Reacher being put in unusual places and having to use his military skills to solve the crime. As normal, with this series there is some love interest but as always remains unfulfilled. The twist in this one is that there was no crime originally, one of his old sparring partners who is being cast out of the CIA, manufactures this crime to enhance his own standing within the intelligence world. Finally Reacher comes to the correct conclusion.

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Creepy Crime

Crime mysterious have become a staple of evening television, and we all have our favourites. From the quirky Agatha Christie's and 'Murder she wrote' to the more hard-hitting Broadchurch, there is a whole world of murder dramas out there. If this sounds like your weekly viewing, why not enter into the world of Crime Fiction? Bringing in millions of readers every year, crime fiction is fast becoming as popular as its visual counterpart. With just as many sub-genres, styles and settings as the cinematic world, we're sure you'll find the perfect murder (mystery).

Jack-in-the-Box - Hania Allen

Following the cult hit 'The girl with the Dragon Tattoo', Scandinavian crime novels have earned themselves a bit of a reputation for being chilling, violent and sensational. Allen is a local author with a Scandinavian background, brining together the London crime scene with the gritty, gratuitous Scandinavian flare. Jack-in-the-box follows the chilling mystery of the death of Max Quincey. The police are startled by the likeness to an old series of murders that were never solved.

Finders keepers- Stephen King

Oh yes, even King has gotten wise to the wonderful world of crime fiction, and no wonder. Finders Keepers demonstrates King's flare for storytelling and characterisation, as well as his ability to weave the delicacies of a complex plot. The second in the series, King's newest novel focuses on a crazed fan, whose love for an author has serious consequences.

Black and Blue- Ian Rankin

Scotland has its own special place in the crime fiction wall of fame, and Rankin is one of the brightest Jewels. Black and Blue is the 8th in the series but can easily be read alone. Rebeus is trying to track down the 'Bible John Killer' while also fighting a battle with the British Media. Taking a grand tour of Scotland including; Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Shetland, Rankin brings to life the atmospheric cities of Scotland in a chilling thriller.

Headhunters - Jo Nesbo

Nesbo has become renowned for his chilling tales of murder and mystery, and this is by far one of his best yet. Made into a film in 2011, Headhunters is an elusive text that is sure to put your head in a spin. Ever fancied yourself as a Sherlock Holms, then give this case a go.... if you dare...

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Books are #beautiful #art #covers #collect #colourful

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Father's Day sorted #something new #challenge #puzzle #keepingbusy #art

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Beautiful books, beautiful knowledge #selfhelp #academicsupport #colourful

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Life after the silver screen

Sometimes fantastic fiction has a spectacular moment in the sun, with media attention, reviews and sometimes even a blockbuster rendition. But very often, as the hype dies away, the text falls out of favour somewhat. This week, we want to turn our attention to these once starlet texts, and tell you exactly why you should read them, even if they passed you by the first time around.

The Life of Pi- Yann Martel

This is a surprising novel with a fantastic and captivating narrative shift. Pi makes for an eloquent, thought-provoking and fiercely intelligent narrator, whose life is as absorbing as his wealth of knowledge about humanity and the animal kingdom. A beautiful text of reflection and contemplation, this is a fantastic read for all this summer, with mirth, laughter, pain and courage.

The Great Gatsby- F. Scott Fitzgerald

Brought back into the public focus with the opulent and visually stunning 2013 blockbuster, Gatsby has been beloved by many generations. Narrated by the perplexing Nick, a quiet and confidential man, Fitzgerald brings to life a cast of strangely dislikeable characters caught up in an age old romance and a very old identity cover-up. The Great Gatsby is dripping with charisma, decadence and 1920s glamour.

Chocolat- Joanne Harris

The 2001 movie rendition is simply darling, with an all star cast and gentle humour and kindness. The novel, however, is something a little bit different. Harris' tale of Vianne and her daughter, the non-Christian chocolatiers who set up shop in a small, pious village during Lent, is full of corruption, fear and distaste. It is far darker than the movie, but don't let that put you off! This is a stunning text, full of love and romance, but with a little extra kick- just like Vianne's hot chocolate!

My Sister's Keeper- Jodi Piccoult

This is an odd novel, and really stands out as one of the important modern texts for young adults and mature readers a-like. The major movie provided a tale based on this novel, but a little bit sanitised. Piccoult's novel shies away from nothing, taking on the troubling issue of donor children, consent and disability. A novel full of love, mirth and heartwarming memories, it is also heartwrenching, tell-all and shocking. This is definitely a novel to be experienced as you hear from each member of the family, excluding Kate, the 16 year old Leukaemia patient.

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Another week has passed and the weather is gradually getting warmer! It seems that there are hundreds of thousands of books in the world, and just not enough time to read them all! Expanding your literary horizons is definitely an important goal but when you're busy reading should be a real pleasure and there's no time to waste on something you don't enjoy. Trying something new is equally important, however! This week, we're recommending texts that took us out of our comfort zone or were a little bit different from our usual choices, but that we simply adored upon reading. Remember, there's no such thing as a 'guilty pleasure' when it comes to literature; all books are beautiful!

Carrie- Stephen King

Carrie was King's first novel. Before starting this classic thriller, it is interesting to read King's brief introduction which offers a unique insight into the author, his life and inspiration. This is a harrowing tale of an outcast, bullied and set upon. But simple, quite, meek Carrie White has a truly extraordinary strength that no one could have suspected. A unique narrative formed by reports, interviews and narrative, King's Carrie is an addictive read.

Umbrella - Will Self

This is a trying narrative, formed of fragmented thoughts and changing focus. This is a novel that is definitely worth your time, however. Set in a mental hospital, Self's novel tracks the different lives of a schizophrenic patient and the journey of humanity and understand that her treatment evokes in her doctor. A unique and perplexing read, that while emotive is not entirely devoid of fun.

Gargarin Way - Gregory Burke

Few people read a play for fun; however, if you're strapped for time and fancy an escape, a play can be a powerful but snappy read. The beauty of reading a script is that you have all the characterisation without the description, giving you free reign to create the voice, faces and details for yourself. Gargarin Way is set in an abandoned warehouse in Fife. It is the story of two haphazard, communist 'freedom fighters'. This is a gritty tale with many explicit topics, scenes and word choice! But if you appreciate fast and witty commentary, verbal humour and poignant reflection, then this is a text you're guaranteed to enjoy! 

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Something old, something new

This week's recommendations are all personal books that we simply adore. We believe that books are like places, they hold memories, experiences and should be returned to time and again! Great literature always has something new to lend itself to your understanding,  appreciation or perspective on the novel.  Discover something new to love about an old favourite. 

Interview with the Vampire - Anne Rice

Even if 'vampire fiction' isn't your cup of tea, this book is a decadent, thought-provoking look at the human psyche. Louis is the affluent son of a Plantation owner, and soon takes over the family estate. But after the tragic death of his wife and child, and the terrible accident with his beloved and highly religious brother, Louis begins to question the sanctity of life. Found by the decadent, wicked and ever charismatic Lestate, Louis is brought into a second life, one of darkness and animal survival. Louis cannot become the monster he sees in himself, however and struggles for survival in a world that changes around him, the unseen. A moving, exciting and heart-breaking look at human nature, self perception and survival in a changing world, Rice's novel is a beautiful piece of luxury and degradation.

All quiet on the Western Front- Eric Maria Remarque

As the 100 year commemorations of the Great War continue around the world, this is the best time to pick up this classic novel. Paul is a young private. Like the thousands who fought in the war, he has left behind his family and friends, the home he knew and the life he never quite got to live. He makes new friends, new heroes and discovers there are no such thing as enemies. Paul lives in the trenches with a motley crew of characters, they laugh, they eat, they worry, and they fight. Paul is an ordinary soldier; except he is German. Remarque's remarkable, stunning novel brings to life the other side of the trenches in graphic, heart-wrenching detail. As the war progresses, Private Baumer and his battalion question the point of war and bring to life the horrors of life on the front. A truly beautiful novel that brings to life the humanity of war.

The Hobbit- JRR Tolkien

Tolkien's world began as a night time tale for his children, however, thanks to the stunning blockbusters The Lord of the Rings has become a massive cult classic. Even if the world of fantasy isn't your usual forte, the Hobbit is a novel that must be experienced. Bilbo Baggins is a quiet little Hobbit. He enjoys his world of plenty, self-sufficiency and comfort. That is, until an old acquaintance returns to the Shire. Gandalf the Grey is shocked to discover that Bilbo barely remembers him, and has grown accustomed to a quiet life. With the noisy entrance of 13 dwarves, Bilbo finds himself swept along on an amazing and terrible adventure to the lonely mountain, to rescue the seat and treasure from the awful Smaug. A world of fun for those whose lives are jam-packed with responsibilities and errands. Tolkien's novel is visually beautiful and eloquently portrayed. Experience these magical characters coming to life, and watch as they learn about courage, comradeship and success in the face of adversity.

North and South- Elizabeth Gaskell

There is nothing quite as cosy and comforting as returning to a familiar classic! The women of the Hale family experience a true shocked when a change of circumstances results in a  move to the Northern industrial town of Milton. The genteel family find themselves surround by rough characters, hardworking people and poverty. While their sensibilities are shocked, and their past mocked by those around them, Margaret Hale discovers that she does have a place in this world, and it is a place of action, justice and making a voice for herself. An unlikely love story that highlights the germination of feminism building in 1850s industrial Britain. A funny, romantic and at times harrowing read, if you have never tried Gaskell, this is the best place to start!

 This week we're (re)discovering the comfort of an old favourite. All of the selected texts have a little adventure about them, and guaranteed to bring delight and thrills, along side heart-warming and heart-breaking!