Hardback by Yale University Press, £12.99 (ebook £8.64)
Unlike Nick Hornby’s Stuff I’ve Been Reading, Clive James’ collection of essays exploring the literature he’s devoured since being diagnosed with leukaemia, lacks pace and punch. Well written yes, but not addictive, and it relies far too heavily on the reader having read as much as James. It should come with a jacket caveat stating: ‘Please read all of Joseph Conrad’s work before opening’.
Intriguing as much as it is indulgent, James cannot help repeatedly referencing his impending – but not-quite-imminent – death. Understandable, of course, but it becomes almost blase.
James fans will no doubt be enamoured, but otherwise, stick to your own reading list.
