BOOK OF THE DAY - March 20, 2014 Theres a lovely anecdote about British author Simon Raven. Married and with a young son, Raven was, as was his wont, cavorting in Europe and neglecting to send funds to support his family. In due course, his wife sent him a telegram: Send money Stop Wife baby starving Stop. In reply, Raven sent this jolly note: No money Stop Suggest wife eat baby Stop. Simon Raven could truly be described as a wicked man, as an English book dealer of our acquaintance always refers to him. He was a heavy drinker, a gambler, a philanderer and a writer of rare grace, intelligence and ability. His characters are almost invariably nasty. His books are moving and funny and richly rewarding. He is sadly neglected most places - but not at Sellers & Newel. Here are some of Ravens myriad works. Brother Cain, his second novel, is a darkly intellectual thriller in a stunning jacket from his longtime publisher Anthony Blond. Places Where They Sing, in another evocative Blond jacket, is volume six in Ravens audacious and outstanding Alms For Oblivion series. And the stack of books are paperback editions of many of the titles that comprise that series. Spring is here and you may not have seen a robin yet, but you have seen many Ravens. More on him in a future entry.
Posted on: Thu, 20 Mar 2014 14:52:14 +0000
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