Brutal

With the pending release of ‘The Brutalist’ film at the cinema, my son and I decided to head upto London, after dusting down one of my archived Brutalist photowalks, from Google My Maps.

Our trip into town was tailored, as the train from Brighton was delayed at Croydon, due to the perennial, ‘essential weekend engineering works’. So we jumped in the car, drove to Hounslow West Tube station, and headed in on the Piccadilly line. The was as awkward and unsightly, as Brutalist architectiture is to some…….?

We didn’t get into town too early and could only visit a couple of locations.

It's a word that often evokes strong reactions, conjuring images of imposing concrete structures, stark lines, and a sense of utilitarian severity. For some, it's an eyesore; for others, a raw and honest expression of architectural ambition. As a photographer, I find myself drawn to its dramatic forms, its sheer scale, and the stories etched into its weathered surfaces. And nowhere is this fascination more potent than in London's Trellick Tower and the nearby Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate.

Brutalism is an architectural movement that emerged in the mid-20th century and is characterized by its stark, rugged forms and raw concrete construction. Love it or loathe it, Brutalism stands as a testament to a bold architectural vision that sought to redefine urban living. Two iconic examples of this movement in London are Trellick Tower and the Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate.

Trellick Tower: A Vertical City

Designed by the Hungarian architect Ernő Goldfinger, Trellick Tower is one of the most recognizable Brutalist structures in London. Completed in 1972, this 31-storey residential building looms over West London, its distinctive silhouette visible for miles.

Goldfinger envisioned Trellick Tower as a vertical city, with communal spaces such as laundries, nurseries, and shops integrated into the design. The tower's bold, unapologetic use of raw concrete and its imposing height make it a striking subject for photography. From the sharp angles of its balconies to the play of light and shadow on its rough surfaces, Trellick Tower offers endless opportunities for capturing the essence of Brutalism.

The Nerdy Bit

One of the main reasons for my interest in film photography, is the allure of the process. I enjoy the sedate pace. I also hate the clinical aspect of ‘modern’ lens and the digital effeciency.

I started using my 28mm Rokkor Minolta lens on my Sony A7iii, with the K&F adaptor, I have full (slow) manual focus on the camera. I love the tone of the images it creates. There is a mild preset edit in LrC.

Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate: A Concrete Symphony

In stark contrast to the verticality of Trellick Tower, the Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate, designed by Neave Brown, sprawls horizontally across Camden. Completed in 1978, the estate is renowned for its sweeping, terraced design that follows the natural contours of the land.

The estate's curvilinear forms and stepped terraces are a testament to Brown's vision of creating a sense of community within an urban environment. The rough concrete exteriors and geometric lines provide a unique canvas for photographers. Capturing the repetitive patterns of the terraces, the interplay of light and shadow, and the way the estate integrates with its surroundings can yield compelling images that speak to the heart of Brutalist architecture.

This is most definately a work in progress project, hopefully the journey will be alot easier in the future.

Until next time, keep snapping.

Camber Sands: A Seaside Story of Shifting Sands

While the summer months bring the majority of visitors to British seaside destinations, a beach possesses a unique charm during the off-season.

I decided to visit Camber Sands, and carry on some more new film photography in 2025, tim really enjoying this new vein of enthusiasm.

I decided on taking my Leica M6, loaded with my trusted Kodak 5222 / Double X and my large format 4x5 camera, The Chamonix 45n2 with some Fomapan 400. Both of these films are my trusted film choices. I buy the former in 400 ft bulk reels that I pre-load onto 30 exposure rolls. The latter constitutes the best value for 4x5 film, where 50 sheet boxes can be bought off the interweb for around £40. This coupled with my chosen black and white developer - Kodak hc110 - at dilution b (1:31), is about the best and most prudent and cost effective workflow that there is.

I’m at a crossroads as to what I'll actually shoot in the spring and summer of 2025, having not bought any colour film since my Kodak 250d 400 ft bulk reels purchase in 2023. Not only the cost of the film but the cost of the c41 developer kit. I may decide to just stick with black and white workflow above, let's see.

Camber’s vast expanse of sand feels even more expansive when devoid of crowds, and the winter storms can create dramatic landscapes.

This is a location that I regularly pass through, on my jaunts to Dungeness.

The dunes, often overlooked in summer, become a haven for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The crisp air and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore offer a sense of tranquility and peace that is hard to find elsewhere.

The Decline of a British Seaside Icon

Camber Sands, with its vast expanse of golden sand and rolling dunes, has long been a beloved destination for British holidaymakers. Generations of families have flocked to this East Sussex gem, seeking sun, sea, and traditional seaside fun. However, the recent closure of the Pontins holiday park has cast a shadow over the area, raising questions about the future of this once-vibrant coastal resort.

A History of Holidaymaking

Camber Sands' history as a tourist destination dates back to the Victorian era, when the arrival of the railway made coastal getaways more accessible. The beach's natural beauty and expansive sands drew visitors in search of relaxation and recreation. In the mid-20th century, holiday camps like Butlins and Pontins emerged, offering affordable package holidays that catered to working-class families. These camps became synonymous with the British seaside experience, providing entertainment, activities, and self-catering accommodation.

This is a complete contrast to the scenes broadcast from Barcelona, with local squirting water at tourists, with a populous movement of tourists go home, as a action towards over tourism, the shortage of housing (with Airbnb rentals sitting unoccupied for the majority of the year).

The Rise and Fall of Pontins

The Pontins holiday park at Camber Sands was a mainstay of the resort for decades. Its chalets, amusement arcades, and entertainment venues provided countless holiday memories for families. However, as travel trends changed and competition from overseas destinations increased, the park began to decline. In recent years, it faced criticism for its outdated facilities and lack of investment. The closure of the park in 2023 marked a significant turning point for Camber Sands, leaving a void in the local economy and raising concerns about the area's future.

I would love to take a work around the Interior of the site, it has an eerie atmosphere to it, akin to The Overlook Hotel in The Shining.

Whilst it was bitterly cold last Saturday, I thoroughly enjoyed the break to Camber and the visit to this part of the quirky Kent coast.

Until next time, keep snapping.

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Back to the Grind: Embracing the Commute with Street Photography

After months (or perhaps years) of the freedom of working from home, the siren call of the office is once again beckoning and on most if not all of us.

Photography isn’t my full time job, it’s my sanity check, to inject a form of creativity into my brain, after spending the working week crunching and counting numbers.

It was back in 2011, when I purchased the iPhone 4, that I discovered the genre of iphoneography over on Flickr, which cultivated into street photography, as an activity to break up the banality of the daily commute into London.  This has piqued my curiosity ever since and blossomed into what is now a fully involved side hustle of managing this website and Etsy store, selling my wares.

As we enter 2025, Labour are seated in Westminster with their pledge to grow the economy, we are all (re)starting the weekly pilgrimage back to the office.  Alas, this means a return to the daily grind of the commute. But what if, instead of dreading that train journey or bus ride, we could embrace it as an opportunity for creativity and self-discovery.

Enter: street photography.

The daily commute, often seen as a monotonous and time-consuming chore, can be transformed into a unique and rewarding experience. Armed with a camera, a curious mind, and a keen eye for the unexpected, the journey to the office becomes a daily expedition.

Here's how to turn your commute into a street photography adventure:

• Embrace the Unexpected: The beauty of street photography lies in its spontaneity. Be prepared for anything – a fleeting glance, a quirky outfit, a vibrant mural, an unexpected interaction.

• Find Your Angle: Experiment with different perspectives. Shoot from the hip, capture reflections in windows, or try a high vantage point.

• Tell a Story: Look for patterns and narratives in the everyday. What do the faces of your fellow commuters reveal? What stories do the objects they carry tell?

• Respect Your Subjects: Always be mindful and respectful of others. Avoid intrusive photography and prioritize the safety and comfort of those around you.

• Edit and Share: After your journey, take some time to review your photos. Select your favorites, edit them to enhance their impact, and share them with the world.

Benefits Beyond the Frame:

Street photography on the commute offers more than just stunning images. It provides:

• A Creative Outlet: A welcome distraction from the pressures of work and a way to express your unique perspective.

• Increased Mindfulness: Paying attention to the details of your surroundings can help you become more present and appreciate the world around you.

• A Sense of Adventure: The daily commute becomes an exciting journey, filled with the anticipation of discovering the unexpected.

• Improved Observation Skills: Street photography sharpens your awareness of your surroundings, making you a more observant and engaged individual.

So, the next time you find yourself facing the dreaded commute, grab your camera and embrace the adventure. Transform the journey from a mundane obligation into a creative pursuit. You might be surprised at the beauty and inspiration you discover along the way.

Disclaimer: Please be mindful of your surroundings and ensure your photography does not disrupt or inconvenience others. Always prioritize safety and respect the privacy of individuals.

Note: This blog post focuses on commuting in London, where public transport is widely used. However, the principles of street photography on the commute can be applied to any mode of transportation in any city.

I hope this blog post inspires you to embrace the commute and discover the creative potential within your daily journey. Happy shooting!

Until next time, keep shooting.

Say something: The book, the documentary or the photo archive?

This post is a break from the norm and relates to my other main relaxation outlet, books.

If I’m too tired to grab a camera and pop out for a photowalk, my next chill, is getting into a book. I’m not one to sit in front of the TV and vegitate, I’m bookish.

Its been 12 months today, since my dear mum passed away on 8th December 2023, which to me will bring a more solemn meaning to xmas now. Ahead of the family scattering the ashes tomorrow, I have reflected on the last 12 months and realised that I have spent the best part of this year, reminisicsing, laughing and crying. I have also made a concerted effort to get closer to my mums irish heritage.

This leads me to Patrick Radden Keefe's "Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland" is a masterclass in storytelling, taking readers on a harrowing journey through the heart of the Troubles, a book that I finished reading last week.

This 2019 publication has been such a overwhelming success, it's been lauded by everyone. To such an extent, its now been made into a 9 part documentary, which can be viewed here in the UK on Disney+.

I’ve not avoided it per se, but I stayed away, for nothing else but not to be carried away in the sweeping public opinion of this being an excellent read, how foolish was I?

It's aimed at both the novice and also those well informed, requiring a brush up on salient points in history.

I’m not one to self profess being an ‘expert’ on Northern Ireland or indeed 'The Troubles’. But I do consider myself well informed as I've read a variety of books on this period of history, since my mid teens, to get a better understanding on what is also known as the ‘Dirty War’. Relating to the tactics used both by the British army / intelligence services and the terrorist organisations on both side of the divide. I thought it was time to belatedly see what all the fuss was about.

In this interview with the author, Radden Keefe,

explains the inspiration for the book title, bring this Seamus Heaney poem.

This most certainly isn't a party political broadcast, nor is it intended to offend any readers who are directly or indirectly affected by this period of time. It's just something that I have great interest in.

My interest is now not only the written form but also the photographic form, having recently discovered the Belfast Archive Project.

This is an excellent representation of all sides of the community and something that I think the reader would enjoy, its an excellent reportage photo archive.

The question is, is the book better than the documentary? How does this powerful narrative translate across different mediums? Is the book superior to the TV adaptation, or does the photography archive offer a unique perspective? Let's explore.

The Book: A Deep Dive into the Shadows

The book format allows Keefe to delve deep into the complexities of the conflict, weaving together the personal stories of victims and perpetrators. His meticulous research and engaging prose bring the characters to life, painting a vivid picture of a society torn apart by violence. The book format offers the reader time and space to contemplate the moral ambiguities and lingering questions raised by the Troubles.

The TV Series: A Visual Spectacle

The TV adaptation of "Say Nothing" is a visually stunning production, bringing the story to life with gripping performances and atmospheric cinematography. The series format allows for a more expansive narrative, exploring additional subplots and characters. However, some viewers may find the pacing slower than the book, and the adaptation may sacrifice some of the book's nuance for dramatic effect.

The Photography Archive: A Glimpse into History

The photography archive offers a unique perspective on the Troubles, capturing the raw emotion and brutality of the conflict. The images, often taken by amateur photographers, provide a powerful and unfiltered record of the events. However, the archive lacks the narrative structure and context provided by the book and the TV series.

The Verdict: Which Medium Reigns Supreme?

Ultimately, the best medium for experiencing "Say Nothing" depends on your individual preferences. If you prefer a deep, immersive reading experience, the book is the way to go. If you enjoy the visual spectacle of a well-crafted TV series, the adaptation is a compelling choice. And if you're interested in a raw and unfiltered look at the Troubles, the photography archive offers a unique perspective.

No matter which medium you choose, "Say Nothing" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most complex and tragic periods in modern history.

Until next time, keep reading and watching.

Barcelona, is it over?

Barcelona, is a vibrant Spanish metropolis, which has been a magnet for tourists for decades.

The kids and I undertook our visit to this tourist hotspot in August 2022, as part of my 50th birthday celebrations.

The city's love affair with tourism may be facing a turning point. Local authorities are actively seeking to curb visitor numbers, with news this week that the plan is a cessation of ‘Airbnb style’ short term rentals in the city, by 2028.

This story in part, has started with local squirting tourists, with water pistols filled with water.

Biting the hand that feeds you? Or is this a drastic measure a necessary step for a city struggling to breathe?

Strains on the City:

Spain sees some 85.1m visitors pa, of which 12.4m visiting Barcelona.  The proposed plan on holiday rentals, would return c. 10,000 properties to the indigenous population for primary resident use.

Barcelona's immense popularity has undeniable downsides. Residents complain of overcrowded streets, rising rents fueled by short-term rentals, and a strain on local infrastructure. The city's unique character can be lost as tourist shops and restaurants replace local businesses.

Taking Back Control:

Discussions include limiting cruise ships, restricting hotel development, and promoting alternative destinations within Catalonia. This shift in focus aims to improve the quality of life for residents and ensure a more sustainable future for the city.

Tourism, Redefined:

Barcelona's move doesn't signal the end of tourism. Instead, it's a call for a different kind of tourism. The focus might shift towards attracting visitors who appreciate Barcelona's cultural heritage and architectural beauty, and who contribute positively to the local economy.

The Road Ahead:

While some hail Barcelona's initiative, others fear economic repercussions. Striking the right balance between tourism and livability is crucial. Barcelona's experiment will be closely watched, with the potential to reshape the conversation around tourism in popular destinations worldwide.

Whilst its clear that the tourism pilgrimage to Barcelona is generally bottlenecked into the 2, if not 1 season (Summer or Spring / Summer), here are some interesting numbers comparing Barcelona with London: 

Tourist Tale of Two Cities: Barcelona vs. London

While both Barcelona and London are major tourist hubs, their stories differ in scale and recent trends. Here's a comparison based on available statistics:

Visitor Numbers:

• London: As of 2023, London held the title of the most searched-for global tourist destination [most searched for global tourist destination ON standard.co.uk]. Though exact visitor numbers can be tricky to pin down due to different methodologies, estimates suggest London attracts well over 20 million visitors annually.

• Barcelona: Pre-pandemic figures show Barcelona receiving around 12.4 million visitors a year [STATISTA tourism barcelona ON statista.com]. While this is a substantial number, it falls short of London's massive tourist influx.

Length of Stay:

• London: Data suggests shorter stays are becoming more common in London, with a third of trips lasting only 3-4 days [most searched for global tourist destination ON standard.co.uk]. This trend aligns with "city break" style tourism, focused on short, action-packed visits.

• Barcelona: Barcelona might see slightly longer stays on average. While specific data is harder to find, the city's focus on cultural experiences and beach getaways could encourage visitors to linger a bit longer.

Tourist Spending:

• London: London benefits from a diverse tourist base, with visitors coming from all corners of the globe. This can lead to a wider range of spending habits.

• Barcelona: Recent reports show a promising trend for Barcelona. While visitor numbers might be dipping slightly, the average tourist spends more (€1,263 in May 2024). This suggests a shift towards a higher-value tourism model in Barcelona.

Local Impact:

• Both Cities: Both London and Barcelona grapple with the impact of tourism on residents. Housing affordability is a major concern, with rising rents due in part to short-term rentals.

• Key Differences: However, the scale of the issue might be more pronounced in Barcelona due to its smaller size. The sheer volume of tourists in a more compact city center can put a strain on infrastructure and contribute to a feeling of inauthenticity.

Barcelona could potentially strike a balance that promotes responsible tourism while safeguarding the city's well-being for the years ahead.

Lets hope so, as it’s a city I would very much like to visit in the future.

Until next time, keep snapping.

Tons of Folks, AKA Folkestone

Had a lovely start to the weekend yesterday, up nice and early at 07:00 having a lovely morning coffee and editing photos, giving the website a minor refresh adding some new products to the store.

My daughter - having surpassed my expectations in approach and preparation to her GCSE’s - is starting her summer holiday, with a camping trip to wales, with her friends.

We decided to jump in the car and head over to Folkestone, for a dad / daughter day, photowalk, shoppping and some seafood at in the harbour.

Folkestone is a little gem of a spot and somewhere, with its charming harbor and vibrant streets, is the perfect destination for a day trip.

Both my kids are audiophiles, where my sons tastes are as broad I as have known, but my daughter possibly takes the edge, with her lust for live performance and festivals. I was given a sample of Declan McKenna and ‘Brazil’. This is a protest song, regarding the awarding of the 2014 World Cup to Brazil.

Ok granted, a fine tune.

Not only does my daughter and I share a (very) similar music taste and political stance, I considered my counter, the lure of Billy Bragg was to obvious, so I countered with Flag Day, the 1985 debut of The Housemartins. I loved this band was I was younger, never thought the bass player - Norman Cook - would go far?

Folkestone's harbor buzzed with activity. We opted for a seafood lunch, savoring fresh fish and chips while watching bobbing boats and colorful lifebuoys. Refueled and ready to explore, we ventured into the heart of the town.

Folkestone is a haven for independent shops. We browsed unique boutiques, stopping to admire everything from handcrafted jewelry to vintage clothing. My daughter, a budding fashionista, found a one-of-a-kind dress that she absolutely loved.

By the end of the day, we were both happy and exhausted and our arms laden with shopping bags. Folkestone's delightful blend of seaside charm, fresh flavors, and quirky shops makes it a perfect destination for a memorable Dad / daughter outing.

Modern Masters - Alex Webb - Capturing the World in Vibrant Layers

Alex Webb is my favourite photographer. His eye and vision to tell a story in one frame, is mesmerising.

Alex Webb is a legend in the world of street photography. Renowned for his richly colored, complex compositions, Webb's work transcends mere documentation, weaving narratives of social tension and cultural vibrancy into every frame.

Born in Atlanta in 1952, Webb's artistic journey began with poetry. However, his travels to Cuba in the 1970s sparked a lifelong passion for photography. There, inspired by the works of Henri Cartier-Bresson and William Klein, he honed his signature style.

Webb's "big break" wasn't a singular moment, but rather a dedication to his craft. He spent years traversing the globe, capturing the essence of life on the streets of Mexico, Haiti, Istanbul, and his native America. His masterful use of color, light, and shadow creates a sense of dynamism and ambiguity, leaving viewers to ponder the stories unfolding within the frame.

Filling the Frame: A Masterful Technique

Webb's ability to fill the frame is a cornerstone of his style. He doesn't shy away from including background elements, using them to create a sense of narrative and visual depth. This technique adds a layer of complexity, forcing the viewer to explore the entire frame, rather than just the central subject.

Alex Webb's work is a testament to the power of observation and the beauty that lies hidden in the everyday. So, grab your camera, hit the streets, and see if you can capture your own slice of urban poetry.

A review of this excellent youtube video by the all inspiring Jamie Windsor, is an excellent resource:

Webb's meticulous attention to detail extends to filling the corners of his compositions. He often utilizes negative space to create tension and lead the viewer's eye through the scene.

Equipment-wise, Webb is known to favor 35mm film cameras, allowing him to remain agile and capture fleeting moments on the street, choosing the visual pleasing Kodachrome as a route for his early photography.

While Webb's photography is widely celebrated, he isn't a fan of labels. He dislikes being confined to the category of "street photographer," preferring to see his work as a broader exploration of human experience.

Webb's illustrious career has garnered praise from his peers. Photographer Bruce Gilden has said of Webb's work: "There's a real depth to his photographs… They're not just about what you see, but what you feel."

To delve deeper into Webb's visual poetry, check out these resources:

• A curated gallery of Webb's photos can be found on the Magnum Photos website: Magnum Photos Alex Webb or his personal website with his wife: Alex Webb & Rebecca Norris

• For a visual exploration of his work, consider these YouTube documentaries:

• Alex Webb: The Suffering of Light

• Webb's photography is beautifully presented in several acclaimed books, including:

• The Suffering of Light

• La Calle: Photographs from Mexico

• Memory City (with Rebecca Norris Webb)

• Brooklyn: The City Within (with Rebecca Norris Webb)

See for Yourself: A Visual Inspiration

• While this blog post can only describe Webb's work, nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. A quick web search for "Alex Webb photography" will bring up a treasure trove of images.

Webb's enduring legacy lies in his ability to transform the ordinary into extraordinary. He reminds us that the beauty and complexity of the world lie waiting to be captured, one vibrant frame at a time.

2023 - A year of reflection, personal, work, photography, books.

Well, 2023 is nearing its end and it’s a year that’s finished as it’s begun, with family being the case in point.

My dear mum passed away on 8th December 2023, after being admitted into Hospital in December 2022 with an infection and whilst this was being treated, she received the full diagnosed her dementia. Since her admission into a care home in January 2023, this last year has provided me with a reminder of being present. Bless you Mum xx.

I tend to take these moments of quiet, to have a period of self-reflection, to see how things have gone against my set goals, sometimes these are formal and structured, sometimes these are ad hoc.  Goal setting (both professional and personal) is imperative for you to function at a greater depth.

The main areas of personal informal focus this year, was to remain grounded and present, with a focus on my mental health, that will ultimately lead to happiness and fulfilment for me and that of my kids.  Seeing my mums health deteriorate in the course of this last year, has been demonstrable on keeping front and centre for remembering the good memories and laughs I have shared with my mum.

I also set myself some additional goals, 1) exceed 100 sales on the Etsy store, 2) reach 1,000 subs on Instagram, 3) Maintain my focus and standing at work, and achieve by 52 book 2023 reading challenge.

These were all achieved, I have done this through a simple and what I think effective plan. 

Etsy Store, I’m loathed to admit defeat, but due to my profile as a Street Photographer, I am more reliant on Etsy and their store platform to sell my wares, than my website.

I reached 111 sales for 2023, with a total of 30 orders in 2023.  My most popular items were:

Coupled with my excellent professional printing partner, I was able to fulfil orders to 8 different countries this year, namely: UK, Germany, The Netherlands, Australia, Spain, USA, Luxembourg, Switzerland.  I am also holding a 5 star feedback. 

On Instagram, I have two accounts a film account and a digital account.  My main activity is on the film account, with a sufficient archive to post 35mm, 120 and 4x5 images.  Q4 of 2023 has seen a little more activity on the digital account, largely due to the film prices spiralling out of control.  I enjoy shooting both formats.  I am just clutching to the 1k followers on the film account, but the focus for 2024 will be to build the 325 followers in the digital account.

At work, I have built a reputation of coaching and helping some of the younger members of the team, giving back, through an informal process of mentoring and coaching.  I remember vividly when I started, as I naive and inexperienced 20 something, that I didn’t know what the tolerance was to act, behave and perform.  I coach people now, by saying your actions are based on reason and logic, not knowledge and experience, that follows.   I love this role and I do it for the enjoyment I get from seeing the younger folk rise.  Everyone should have and / or be a mentor. 

I also finished the year as top performer (for the third consecutive year) in performance, which is a token gesture based on the position of my mum.

Secondly, I’m not much of a ‘sit in front of the TV’ type of person.  With the exception of watching (informative) YouTube videos, I am much more relaxed reading a decent book.  I generally exceed my yearly challenge of 52 books and I take enormous joy from reading a wide genre of novels.

I have read 61 books this year.

­In no particular order or ranking, these are the standout reads for me for 2023.

Best Memoir:

I don’t take Requests – DJ Fat Tony

Harrowing, honest and funny, this is the candid and outrageous memoir of a life of extremes. It's a story of getting it all and losing it all. Addiction, recovery, and starting again. Drawing a vivid portrait of Britain's street culture from the 1980s to the noughties, DJ Fat Tony describes his childhood on a London estate where he honed his petty criminality, was abused by an older man and became best friends with Boy George. He spent his teenage years parading the Kings Road in his latest (mostly stolen) clobber, worked as a receptionist at a brothel, hung out with Leigh Bowery and Andy Warhol, and created his drag persona, before becoming DJ to the stars (including Prince and Madonna) and spiralling into a life-threatening drug addiction.

This is a story of loss and redemption and living to tell all the tales in glorious, funny and often heart-breaking detail, from one of social media's best-loved meme-thieves and the world-renowned DJ.

American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer

American Prometheus is the first full-scale biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer, "father of the atomic bomb," the brilliant, charismatic physicist who led the effort to capture the awesome fire of the sun for his country in time of war. Immediately after Hiroshima, he became the most famous scientist of his generation-one of the iconic figures of the twentieth century, the embodiment of modern man confronting the consequences of scientific progress.

Political:

How Westminster Works…..and why it doesn’t - Ian Dunt

THE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER British politics is broken.  Anyone sitting down to watch the news will get the sense that something has gone terribly wrong. We have prime ministers who detonate the economy, secretaries of state who are intellectually incapable of doing the job and MPs who seem temperamentally unsuited to the role. Expertise is denigrated. Lies are rewarded. And deep-seated, long-lasting national problems go permanently unresolved. Most of us have a sense that the system doesn't work, but we struggle to articulate exactly why. Our political and financial system is cloaked in secrecy, archaic terminology, ancient custom and impenetrable technical jargon.Lifting the lid on British politics, How Westminster Works . . . and Why It Doesn't exposes every aspect of the system in a way that can be understood and challenged, from the heights of Downing Street to the depths of the nation's newsrooms, from the hallways of the civil service to the green benches of the Commons.Based on interviews with some of the leading voices in politics, from former occupants of No.10 to key figures in Whitehall, Westminster and Fleet Street, Ian Dunt provides exactly what people in power have always tried to a full description of the mechanisms of British government. And a vision of how we can fix it. 

Johnson at 10 – Athony Seldon

Mindboggling to see what a complete and unmitigated disaster, the Johnson ‘administration’ was.

True Crime:

Shallow Graves: My life as a Forensic Scientist on Britain's Biggest Cases – Ray Fysh

Shortlisted for the True Crime Awards 2023 Best New True Crime Author The murder of Sarah Payne, Adam the Thames Torso, the London bombings, the Night Stalker and the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko... The solving of all these cases can be linked to one Ray Fysh, a beer-swigging Charlton Athletic fan from Woolwich, a natural raconteur and also one of the finest forensic detectives the country has ever seen.Ray began work for the Met Police in the 1970s when forensic investigation was seen as little more than a geeky side show, only in existence to confirm or eliminate evidence. But by the mid 90s Ray and his team had made huge progress in their field, contributing to the UK becoming a world-leading innovator in forensic techniques, with Ray himself being named as Special Adviser to the Forensic Science Service. As the SA, Ray worked alongside Senior Investigating Officers from day one of a case, directing his team to identify forensic opportunities and harvest case-cracking clues.As Ray looks back over his career at the cases he worked on, the reader is given unparalleled insight into the highs and lows of an astonishing career, the historic classist snobbery of the Met and the stunning realities of crime and forensics

Unlawful Killings: Life, Love and Murder: Trials at the Old Bailey – Wendy Joseph

Every day in the UK lives are suddenly, brutally, wickedly taken away. Victims are shot or stabbed. Less often they are strangled or suffocated or beaten to death. Rarely they are poisoned, pushed off high buildings, drowned or set alight. Then there are the many who are killed by dangerous drivers, or corporate gross negligence. There are a lot of ways you can kill someone. I know because I've seen most of them at close quarters.'

Non Fiction:

README.txt – Chelsea Manning

An intimate, revealing memoir from one of the most important activists of our time.

While working as an intelligence analyst in Iraq for the United States Army in 2010, Chelsea Manning disclosed more than seven hundred thousand classified military and diplomatic records that she had smuggled out of the country on the memory card of her digital camera. In 2011 she was charged with twenty-two counts related to the unauthorized possession and distribution of classified military records, and in 2013 she was sentenced to thirty-five years in military prison.

The day after her conviction, Manning declared her gender identity as a woman and began to transition, seeking hormones through the federal court system. In 2017, President Barack Obama commuted her sentence and she was released from prison.

In README .txt, Manning recounts how her pleas for increased institutional transparency and government accountability took place alongside a fight to defend her rights as a trans woman. Manning details the challenges of her childhood and adolescence as a naive, computer-savvy kid, what drew her to the military, and the fierce pride she has about the work she does. This powerful, observant memoir will stand as one of the definitive testaments of our digital, information-driven age.

 Photography:

Portrait of Britain Volume 5 – Hoxton Mini Press

The worst of the pandemic might be behind us, but the crises just keep coming. War is in Europe. Inflation and temperatures are on the rise. This, the fifth volume in the British Journal of Photography and Hoxton Mini Press’ collaborative series, brings together 200 portraits from all over our island that show Britain at a time of resilience and reimagining. It creates both a thoughtful reappraisal of our recent past, and reveals the individuals both loudly and quietly changing the future. It is published in support of 1854 Media’s annual award, Portrait of Britain, which sees the finest portraits taken in the nation in recent years tour the country via JCDecaux digital billboards. The book features an introduction that sets the portraits within their cultural context and the full shortlist of 200 photographs alongside quotes

Fiction:

Demon Copperhead – Barbara Kingsolver

Set in the mountains of southern Appalachia, this is the story of a boy born to a teenaged single mother in a single-wide trailer, with no assets beyond his dead father's good looks and copper-colored hair, a caustic wit, and a fierce talent for survival. In a plot that never pauses for breath, relayed in his own unsparing voice, he braves the modern perils of foster care, child labor, derelict schools, athletic success, addiction, disastrous loves, and crushing losses. Through all of it, he reckons with his own invisibility in a popular culture where even the superheroes have abandoned rural people in favor of cities.

Many generations ago, Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield from his experience as a survivor of institutional poverty and its damages to children in his society. Those problems have yet to be solved in ours. Dickens is not a prerequisite for readers of this novel, but he provided its inspiration. In transposing a Victorian epic novel to the contemporary American South, Barbara Kingsolver enlists Dickens' anger and compassion, and above all, his faith in the transformative powers of a good story. Demon Copperhead speaks for a new generation of lost boys, and all those born into beautiful, cursed places they can't imagine leaving behind.

Pig Iron – Benjamin Myers

Pig Iron is the story of John-John, a young man wrestling with the legacy of brutality left by his bare-knuckle boxer father, King of the Gypsies, Mac Wisdom. His new job as an ice cream man should offer freedom, but instead pulls John-John into the dark recesses of a north-east town where his family name is mud.

As he attempts to trade prejudice, parole officers and local gangs for his ‘green cathedral’ - the rural landscape in which he seeks solace - Mac’s rise and bloody downfall threatens to engulf John-John’s present.

A far cry from the recent media stereotyping of travellers, Pig Iron is a sensitive portrayal of Britain’s most marginalised and misunderstood ethnic group. More than anything, it is about the redemptive power of nature and the landscape of post-industrial northern England.

Pig Iron is the story of a traveller who hasn’t travelled; a young man fighting for his surname and his very survival. 

Wellbeing:

This Book Will Change Your Mind About Mental Health: A journey into the heartland of psychiatry – Nathan Filer

Presents a balanced summary of the controversy around the biological model of mental ill health, along with the impact this model has had on service design and culture, and society’s understanding of/relationship with its own and others mental health. Coming at a time when the profile of mental health is increasing, this exposure of the counter narrative to the disease model, from an author with his appeal is incredibly important.

History:

Napoleon, a life – Andrew Roberts

The definitive biography of the great soldier-statesman by the New York Times bestselling author of The Storm of War—winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Biography and the Grand Prix of the Fondation Napoleon  

Austerlitz, Borodino, Waterloo: his battles are among the greatest in history, but Napoleon Bonaparte was far more than a military genius and astute leader of men. Like George Washington and his own hero Julius Caesar, he was one of the greatest soldier-statesmen of all times.

Andrew Roberts’s Napoleon is the first one-volume biography to take advantage of the recent publication of Napoleon’s thirty-three thousand letters, which radically transform our understanding of his character and motivation. At last we see him as he was: protean multitasker, decisive, surprisingly willing to forgive his enemies and his errant wife Josephine. Like Churchill, he understood the strategic importance of telling his own story, and his memoirs, dictated from exile on St. Helena, became the single bestselling book of the nineteenth century.

The Fatal Shore – Robert Hughes

 The history of the birth of Australia which came out of the suffering and brutality of England's infamous convict transportation system. With 16 pages of illustrations and 3 maps.

One of the greatest non-fiction books I've ever read . . . Hughes brings us an entire world. --Los Angeles Times

Sport:

Tackled – Ben Tornley

Ben Thornley: The Class of '92 Star Who Never Got to Graduate is the autobiography of a Manchester United player who had the world at his feet, only for a tackle to shatter his knee - and his dreams. Ben tells his story with insights from the likes of Alex Ferguson, David Beckham and Ryan Giggs. It's the Class of '92 as you've never heard it before.

Tome:

The Armour of Light  – Ken Follett

The grand master of gripping fiction is back. International No.1 bestseller Ken Follett returns to Kingsbridge with an epic tale of revolution and a cast of unforgettable characters.

Short Story:

Water – John Boyne

You just cant ignore Boyne’s writing.  When its good, its very good.

Little Gem:

Foster – Claire Keegan

A small girl is sent to live with foster parents on a farm in rural Ireland, without knowing when she will return home. In the strangers' house, she finds a warmth and affection she has not known before and slowly begins to blossom in their care. And then a secret is revealed and suddenly, she realizes how fragile her idyll is.

Foreign / Translation:

The Notebook Trilogy - Agota Kristof

Claus and Lucas remarkable storytelling. 

Biggest Disappointment:

The Year of the Locust – Terry Hayes

That plot twist?!

Well thats me done for 2023, Happy New Year and best wishes for 2024.