August 26th 2024.
I am Ali Millar, and I have had the pleasure of reading some truly amazing books this year. I've always been an avid reader since a young age, but there are certain books that stand out in my mind. One of the earliest books that left a lasting impression on me was Jane Eyre, which my mother read to me. I still vividly remember the red room and the intense fear that Jane felt. This experience sparked my love for literature and is probably the reason why I am a writer today.
I am always eager to share my love for books and often recommend them to everyone I know. Two books that have left a lasting impact on me are Alexander Trocchi's Young Adam and Jesse Ball's The Divers' Game. They have completely changed the way I think about prose and its possibilities.
In the past year, I have read some exceptional books, and two that stand out are My Heavenly Favourite by Lucus Rijneveld and I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning by Keiran Goddard. Rijneveld's writing is truly special, and I believe they are the next great writer to watch out for. As for Goddard, his background in poetry is evident in his stunningly beautiful prose. Another book that has left me in awe is How to Paint a Dead Man by Sarah Hall. The attention to detail in her writing is remarkable and truly immerses you in the story.
However, not every book I pick up is a hit for me. I have tried multiple times to get into Jane Austen's works, but I just can't seem to connect with them. I have come to realize that I am not a fan of dialogue-heavy books, which may explain my struggle with Austen's works. But perhaps it's just my own quirky taste.
As a writer, I find inspiration in other authors, and one that has had a profound impact on me is Rob Doyle. Every time I read his work, I am filled with envy because I wish I had written it. He constantly challenges me to push myself and strive for excellence. Rachel Cusk has a similar effect on me. Her writing is so clear and deceptively simple, making it both intimidating and motivating.
When it comes to my favorite place to read, I have two: one in the heart of London and the other in a small coastal town in Scotland. In Soho, tucked away in the cozy Dean Street Town House, I love reading on a rainy afternoon, next to a warm fire in a comfortable chair. It's the perfect spot for people-watching and eavesdropping on conversations. Alternatively, in Tighnabruaich on the west coast of Scotland, I love sitting on a window seat overlooking the beautiful Bute, with gannets diving in the distance.
For those who may not know me, I am an author and journalist. Although I was born in Edinburgh and raised in the Scottish Borders, I now call London my home. My debut book, THE LAST DAYS: a memoir of faith, desire, and freedom, was a Guardian Book of the Year, a Bookseller Editor's Choice, and a Scotsman One to Watch. I am also the author of Ava Anna Ada, which is available for purchase. Thank you for taking the time to read about my book recommendations and my love for reading. Happy reading, everyone!
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