The Atom Station, Halldor Laxnuss (Nobel, 1955)

We have almost scheduled this author a few times and been indecisive on which book, based mainly on length and plot. Step in our resident expert on the author (PhD no less) who recommended this one both on length and plot. Sometimes it's tough to get a book up in this club! The Guardian (hacks) think we may be disappointed compared to Independent People, but then go on to say there's a lot to like in this satire. A drunken Icelandic PM allows the Yanks to build a nuclear power station. Enter Ugla, a country girl now working in an MP's house, the family turns out to be drunken, demented, self-destructive. The author's "rich" humour and humanism shines, but frankly you had me at "satire". I look forward to a robust discussion. And we may also need to read Independent People another time to compare.

Since starting this book club a few years ago we have formed a nice core membership. If you haven't come yet, please look out for the books on the table, pull up a chair, order a wine and join us. We like to hear what everyone has to say and enjoy the conversation, we're not cliquey at all! Oh, and to defray the Meetup monthly bill I will accept gold coin contributions or wine if you want to pay for multiple in one hit. I hope to see everyone again at this one with some new faces.