Sunday 4 September 2011

Sound the Trumpets (Part Two)

Last month I shared my UK reviews (see post) with you so today I’m thanking my ‘.com’ readers and publishing a selection of their thoughts on ‘Diary of a Mummy Misfit’.

I’ve never been one to brag, but needs must!

Kimmidoll - Captivating page turner!
Congratulations to the author on writing the first book in a long time that I was hesitant to put down (although unfortunately my Mummy Misfit life required that I sneak bits in here and there whenever I could). Diary of a Mummy Misfit is a ‘must read’ book that draws you in by it's colourful characters and entertaining scenarios. This is a story that on more than one occasion had me likening particular events to my own life. The characters are relatable and you will often feel yourself getting caught up in the emotions that they are experiencing - be it anxiety, fear, joy or relief. Reading this book on a Kindle meant that I never really knew how many pages I had left in the book and whilst I wanted to read ahead and find the resolution to each hilarious issue that Libby encountered, I didn't want to reach the end of the book. I quickly felt enveloped into Libby's misfit life and have often found myself wondering what she is up to now. I can highly recommend this book as an entertaining and captivating read.

Jane - Laughs mixed in with real life pen portraits!
I loved ‘Diary of a Mummy Misfit’ and read it practically in one sitting. I was completely transported into Libby's world - the worries of not fitting in; trying to work out who are the real people and who are the fakes; watching the people around tackle with their own life journeys. The organising of the Christmas fete and associated commands from those on high brought back memories of being involved in committees with useless figureheads. I felt Libby's pain and Fenella's rage. Amanda accurately creates the world of private education where the "haves" often consider everyone else to be beneath them and the "have nots", who more often than not are just like us - normal people tackling real world challenges. Yes money does make life a lot easier, but most of us are making ends meet on average incomes and struggling to fit in and look right. (Even if we deny it). Being a complete chick lit addict I can't wait for Amanda's next book! BTW I'm not a mum so will never get to experience the wait at the gate or the boring social evenings. Can't say I'm too upset about that based on ‘Diary of a Mummy Misfit’!

Mike - The crazy world of British Private Education
I came to this after enjoying the frantic ‘May contain nuts’ by John O’Farrell. I polished this off during a pleasant flight to the Sun - Thank you my lovely little Kindle! ‘Diary of a Mummy Misfit’ is a much more anchored, realistic tale of life amongst the Battersea / Fulham set. Lot's of modern cameos - someone will have fun putting this on the screen - all the usual Mumsnet suspects : LK Bennett, Guardian readers, Bankers, Ac-tors, Cath Kidston, Alpha Mummies, Range Rover drivers. Those irreproachably, irredeemably middle class ‘Social Stereotypes’ from the Telegraph.  As a book, it certainly makes you think - why have literally millions given up on Blair's Bog Standard State Schools and Academies in London? Why are more nearly a fifth of all Six formers in Private Education? And what is it about affluence that makes people even more insecure?  Curious that it's only on Kindle - you'd think it would have been a Blog which turned into a Paperback. Maybe there's a ‘Julie and Julia’ style blog somewhere that I don't know about.  Going back to John O’Farrell's book - ‘May contain Nuts’ was an amusing read, and an entertaining TV play, but would have been better without the exam substitution and ultimate conclusion.  ‘Diary of a Mummy Misfit’ is the better book -realistic characters, and better social commentary on those terrifying Schoolgate Mothers. Could have done with some more polishing - think of it as the Yummy Mummy's version of the ‘Manchild’ BBC TV series, but I enjoyed it, and I'm looking forward to Amanda Egan's next book. Conclusion: Ideal holiday or commuter read - for Mumsnet Alpha Mummies and their, almost, patient husbands.

Tara L. - A Kindle Store Gem
I discovered this book while browsing for a holiday read and wasn't disappointed. I hadn't heard of the author, but the storyline appealed and the free download sample was as good as any chick lit I'd read in diary format.  Brought plenty of laughs and the author perceptively sums up some very recognisable types you meet in the vulgar monied set. This isn't wealth bashing, but it makes you question who is richer. Something for everyone - chaotic family life, school gate competitiveness, gays, a cultural mix - all wrapped up in witty and well captured observations.  A definite recommend!! If you like a diary, it's a grown-up Bridget Jones without the snobbery of Rachel Johnson. Should be in paperback.

Laurel Mayer - Funny, Bright & Witty! Loved it!
The diary format of this book serves it so well! Libby's diary reads with such humor and sharp wit that it is impossible to not laugh at her candid remarks about her daily interactions. Libby's diary reflects all the things that one thinks, but doesn't say. There is so much to love about Libby. She doesn't take herself too seriously and her easy personality makes it completely natural to cheer her on as she takes on some rather cold and callous characters. Love the British humor as well as the universal themes that Amanda Egan explores. Overall this is an extremely witty novel from a debut author. Can't wait for the next book!

So there you go - a few more happy readers and a few more reasons why you should buy my book.

‘Diary of a Mummy Misfit’ is available on Amazon UK or Com for Kindle, PC or Smartphone   (you can download a free viewing App for these at the Kindle store).  Now also in paperback at Lulu.

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