Riots, Rage & Ruin.

I wanted to pause for a second and take a time out from my regular posts, to reflect and offer my ruminations instead on something that is more important: the horrific unrest and riots that have taken place principally in London, but which are spreading across the country even as I type.

Quite frankly, it is disgusting to sit and watch thousands of people loot, burn buildings, and fight with police, destroying everything that they see fit, without a semblance of care or remorse for their actions. People's homes are being destroyed, along with their businesses; even their very livelihoods. Yet it continues, as more and more people join in with what can only be described as mob mentality. It's sickening to see the true capabilities of human nature; the very violence, unrest and turmoil that Great Britain has become embroiled in.

Fire rages through the Carpetright store on Tottenham High Road

I may be young and naive, but even I can recognise that these people are deluded. They may convince themselves that their is drive to their actions, talk themselves into fighting. They may complain that they are making their voices heard by making a stand; but this is surely not the way to do it.

Alas, the media make things no better. The images of buildings in flames, of smashed glass and of fighting littering the streets, are one's that you would expect. Does this mean they make the situation better? No. It's obvious that they must inform the public of events, but although it will fill most viewers with bitterness and resentment for those that are causing the problems, it also riles the spirits of those that want to get involved for no reason. As such, the riots have transpired into something out of control; a complete civil unrest.

A police car burns in the night

In just two days the situation has become more frightening than anyone could have possibly imagined; a realisation that within such a short period of time, a completely manic attitude has swept the country. I pray for the families and the people that have lost their businesses and homes over attitudes and actions so preposterous, pathetic and unnecessary that it makes my blood boil, as I'm sure it does many others.

I guess all we can do now is wait and hope that our country has enough good to calm the situation and bring it to peace before this can be allowed to continue onwards and spread even further. It needs to be stopped.

The Interpretation of Murder. - Jed Rubenfeld

Synopsis: Manhattan, 1909. On the morning after Sigmund Freud arrives in New York on his first - and only - visit to the United States, a stunning débutante is found bound and struggled in her penthouse apartment, high above Broadway. The following night, another beautiful heiress, Nora Acton, is discovered tired to a chandelier in her parents' home, viciously wounded and unable to speak or to recall her ordeal. Soon Freud and his American disciple Stratham Younger, are enlisted to help Miss Acton recover her memory, and to piece together the killer's identity. It is a riddle that will test their skills to the limit, and lead them on a thrilling journey - into the darkest places of the city, and of the human mind.


Review

Well, where on earth do I start with this one? I picked this up on the recommendation of several members on a forum I regularly frequent, and I certainly haven't been disappointed; The Interpretation of Murder is a captivating novel filled with love, deception and murder. Sigmund Freud's only ever trip to the United States is one that has always confused biographers, as for the rest of his life he referred to American's as 'savages.' What happened to the genius on his travels? Rubenfeld in this novel delightfully weaves the threads of history and fiction together, to create us a clever answer.

From the moment that Freud steps down in the United States with his two companions Carl Jung and Sandor Ferenczi, to deliver a series of lectures at a prestigious university, in the hope his psychoanalytical ideas will propel across the country, mysterious forces work against him to stop him doing so. As Freud battles to dispel the rumours that threaten his work and his credibility, his disciple Dr Stratham Younger, has other problems. A stunning débutante is found whipped and bound in her home, with no recollection of the event, or no voice. Miss Acton must work with Younger to unravel the mystery of her lost voice, and as she does so, Stratham begins to realise that not everything is quite as it seems.

The Interpretation of Murder is a novel which is fiendishly clever, as the reader's suspicions are led one way, then another. The author creates a tension through all his characters; as accusations fly between them, we no longer know who to trust. It seems everyone has a secret to hide, as the plot unravels and the reader turns the pages in anticipation.

In addition, the novel tackles brilliantly, the way in which Sigmund Freud transformed our ideas of psychology and of the mind. As an A Level psychology student who has studied Freud, I found this to be enlightening in the way in which some of his techniques and ideas were explored and analysed. Of course, not everyone agrees with the great man's ideas; and as the divisions and cracks within Freud's personal camp begun to show throughout the novel, maybe the answers are closer than the psychoanalysts believe.

All in all a fantastic, engaging novel that holds the reader in suspense and anticipation, trying to second-guess Rubenfeld's plot twists and turns. It is a tribute to the way in which the book is written to know that when the reader feels like they have stumbled upon the answer, they must not be so sure, as the rug is swept from under our feet once more. Allow yourself to be taken on a journey into the darkest depths of New York city, and into the human mind.

5/5.

Club Dead. - Charlaine Harris

Synopsis: There's only one vampire Sookie Stackhouse is involved with - at least voluntarily - and that's Bill. But recently he's been a little distant - in another state distant. His sinister and sexy boss Eric has an idea where to find him, and next thing Sookie knows she's off to Jackson, Mississippi, to mingle with the underworld at Club Dead. It's a dangerous little haunt where the elusive vampire society can go to chill out and suck down some Type O - but when Sookie finally finds Bill caught in an act of serious betrayal she's not sure whether to save him, or to sharpen some stakes. The Sookie Stackhouse books are delightful Southern Gothic supernatural mysteries, starring Sookie, the telepathic cocktail waitress, and a cast of increasingly colourful characters, including vampires, werewolves and things that really do go bump in the night.

Review

Well, I'm certainly flying through this series, as the third book in the Sookie Stackhouse comes to an end, and I think this has been my favourite so far. I'm unsure why, but the action was even higher, the danger even greater, and the tension throughout was so strong it just poured through the pages.

This time Sookie faces a different dilemma to her previous excursions, as this time she doesn't have Bill. In the past weeks he's been cold and distant, and he finally leaves without really telling her why; a betrayal that hits hard when she is told by Eric. Next minute Sookie is travelling again, this time to Mississippi and to the kingdom of vampire Russel Edgington. The danger is high, and vampire bar Club Dead holds more dangers than she's ever faced before. Despite the moral dilemma, Sookie knows she needs to talk to Bill no matter what; she must save him, even if he has betrayed her.

Tortured and alone, Bill suffers with regret and pain; the betrayer betrayed. Sookie is on her way though, however, and although it costs her greatly she finds information that leads the vampires to Bill. Penetrating the compound, Sookie must use every talent she's used so far, and a little more, to try save the first person she's truly loved; no matter what. She's had the help of werewolf Alicide throughout, but this time she's alone; but she's dangerous, and always down for the fight.

Throughout this novel, I felt the character development from the previous two novels. We found out more about Bill's past, and I feel Sookie had finally learned to deal a little with her telepathy, exploring it more than ever to help her investigations. The book was just as engaging as the last two in the series, perhaps even more so, and the action didn't let up for even a moment, despite the underlying questions of morality that played such an important part in the book.

Overall, a strong addition to the series and I'll certainly be attacking the rest with gusto; these novels really are great, fast-paced reads which pass away the hours quickly without complaint. Enjoyable to both young adults and adults alike, if you haven't snapped them up (no vampire puns intended) yet, do so; you're missing out.

5/5.

Living Dead In Dallas. - Charlaine Harris

Synopsis: Sookie Stackhouse is living in Bon Temps, Louisiana, and she likes working as a cocktail waitress at Merlotte's. But she's having a streak of bad luck. First her co-worker is killed, and no one seems to care. Then she comes face-to-face with a beastly creature which gives her a painful and poisonous lashing. Enter the vampires, who graciously suck the poison from her veins (like they didn't enjoy it).

The point is the vampires saved her life. So when one of the bloodsuckers asks for a favour, she obliges - and soon Sookie's in Dallas, using her telepathic skills to search for a missing vampire. She's supposed to interview certain humans involved, but she makes one condition: the vampires must promise to behave, and let the humans go unharmed. But that's easier said than done, and all it takes is one delicious blonde and one small mistake for things to turn deadly.

Review

The second book in the Sookie Stackhouse series, then, and certainly just as enjoyable as the first. Sookie owes the vampires a debt, and she isn't one to let down a promise, as she travels to Dallas to help out in their investigations. Things don't run quite as smoothly as she wishes, however, and she soon finds herself way out of her depth.

The Fellowship lurk around every corner, and wait resolutely to harm vampires, or those that have associated with them; believing that they deserve to atone for their sins. They are at the centre of Sookie's discoveries and she travels to their headquarters in order to help her investigations, and save the person the vampires want returned. Soon though, she finds herself captured, betrayed, and ultimately alone; with only her skills to help her.

Danger fast approaching, Sookie faces her toughest and most stern test yet; she must escape, and she must help those she can. It's easier said than done, however, as the reader turns the pages in anticipation, and feels the anxiety of the characters. The novel is engaging, gripping, whilst at the same time a fast-paced read; a tribute to how easy it is to lose yourself in the pages.

I recommend this series so far to anyone that enjoys a novel that has a bit of everything; plenty of action, littered with humour and wit that had me laughing out loud at some points. It mixes tension and odd moments of romance nicely; a fantastic read.

4/5.

Dead Until Dark. - Charlaine Harris

Synopsis: Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of 'disability.' She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then comes along Bill: he's tall, dark and handsome - and Sookie can't 'hear' a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life. But Bill has a disability of his own: he's a vampire. Worse than that, he hands around with a seriously creepy crowd, with a reputation for trouble - of the murderous kind. And when one of Sookie's colleagues is killed, she begins to fear she'll be next.

Review

Now the Sookie Stackhouse series is one I've been meaning to get around too for years now, especially after hearing from friends how good it is, and after seeing it made into television hit show True Blood. In any case, Dead Until Dark is the first in the series, and I enjoyed it immensely.

Dead Until Dark is one of those fast-paced, easy reads, that you can sit back with, enjoying a brew; passing the hours by without really knowing where they have gone. The action is plentiful, the writing engaging, and the characters believable enough to feel involved with what they are going through.

The novel centres around young Sookie Stackhouse, the cocktail waitress from Bon Temps, Louisiana, who has the often horrible talent of being able to read people's minds. Not a moment of peace is granted to her; it's an affliction she has to put up with all day long. That all changes when she meets Bill the vampire; handsome, mysterious, and a breath of fresh air, since she all she meets is wonderful silence when she tries to reach his mind.

Despite this though, falling for a vampire looks like it has its consequences. Nobody approves, everyone's weary of him, and it helps not that all around the town woman are being brutally murdered; those who have an association with vampires. It's frightening; Sookie fears she is next, and doesn't know who to trust. The darkness and the murder close in, the danger piles up; someone or something stalks the night, with the attention of causing her harm.

4/5.

Deal Breaker. - Harlan Coben

Synopsis: When a woman who everyone, including the police, believes is dead makes a phone call to a young sportsman about to hit the big time, it seems that more than just his career is on the line.

Myron Bolitar investigates and is plunged into a baffling mystery of sex and blackmail. Trying to unravel the truth about a family's tragedy, a woman's secret and a man's lies, Myron soon reveals that image and talent might make you rich, but the truth can get you killed.



Review

Earlier in the year I read Caught by Harlan Coben, and was impressed with how fast-paced and well-written the novel was, prompting me to pick up another of his. I settled with Deal Breaker. This time not a stand-alone novel, but the first in the Myron Bolitar series; something I admittedly didn't know when I picked it at random from the author's shelf of novels in the book-store.

I haven't been disappointed. The novel tells the story of a mysterious disappearance of a young woman who has gone missing, believed to be dead. Her family and her boyfriend are left hysterical, and just a year after tragedy strikes the family again: the father dies in an apparently unrelated mugging. For Jessica, coincidences are too good to be true, and she believes there is a connection between her sister's disappearance and her father's death.

Not everything is how it seems, and everyone has something to hide. Jessica enlists the help of Myron, agent of Christian Steele, upcoming NBA star and the boyfriend of Jessica's missing sister Kathy. With his best friend Win in tow, he's got his back covered, as he starts delving into a strange investigation that ground to a halt two years ago. Win is the character that makes this novel so engaging for me; a handsome, golf-playing nerd, Win holds all the contacts, all the finances and all the means at Myron's disposal. Oh, and he's quite handy at taekwondo also; his protection something that Myron will need.

In some senses, the plot is a typical one; girl goes missing presumed dead, multiple suspects, personal agendas, secrets kept; the reader knows not who to trust. That's what makes it so engaging, as the threads weaved between the characters' lives continue to be revealed one by one; each twist and turn presenting new revelations to shock and surprise the reader. In essence, a fact-paced, action-packed read that left me wanting the next in the series.

4/5.

The Shadow of the Wind. - Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Synopsis: Hidden in the heart of the old city of Barcelona is the 'Cemetery of Forgotten Books', a labyrinthine library of obscure and forgotten titles. To this library, a man brings his ten-year-old son Daniel, one cold morning in 1945. Daniel is allowed to chose one book and from the dusty shelves pulls The Shadow of the Wind by Julián Carax. But as Daniel grows up, several people seem inordinately interested in his find. What begins as a case of literary curiosity turns into a race to find out the truth behind the life and death of Julián Carax and to save those he left behind.

Review

First of all I must mention that I will remain forever thankful to a friend that plucked this out of hundreds of choices for me to read, otherwise it would have been left gathering dust on my shelves; a tragic waste for certain.

The novel piqued my interest immediately when I discovered it were to be a novel about novels, but it should be noted that it works on so many more different levels. From the moment Daniel stumbles upon one of Carax's books, he becomes caught up in a world more terrible than he could have ever imagined. His instant connection with the book draws him in, and from then on he is captured and entangled by the author's story, which won't let him go; he feels the need to discover the truth behind the mysterious Julián Carax.

On his journey he suffers unrequited love, pain and misery, as he begins to grow up and see the world in a different light. From the loss of his best friend, who begins to hate him; the love of Bea, of Clara, the discovery of passion and of lust, Daniel in a sense becomes out of his depths. He finds hope and inspiration in a beggar he finds on the streets; a beggar that becomes an acquaintance, a friend, and who has his own story to tell.

Yet it is not just he that searches endlessly for the truth surrounding Carax. A mysterious, dark figure stalks the shadows, questioning book-stores and collectors alike for information on Julián's novels. He seeks them not to read, but to destroy; he longs to burn and eradicate the stories of Carax forever, and it is unclear why. The past holds the answers to all, and for all the efforts of some, it struggles to remain buried.

Those that were once friends, now turned evil; death, destruction and murder litters the streets. Daniel is in more danger than he could possibly ever know; for every person that works with him, another more sinister conspires against. And yet it is a connection that can't be broken; Daniel must search onwards. Will he discover the truth behind the eerie Julián Carax?

In essence, this novel was fantastic; a wonderfully written plot integrated with brilliant characters that each stood out individually for me. The story is an ambiguous one; unanswered questions lead to sub-plots, which lead to further seemingly endless mysterious that have the readers guessing and wondering throughout. The way Zafón weaves the parallels into the different characters' journeys is clever, and often I found myself surprised at revelations that I was definitely not expecting.

The observant readers may guess some twists, but it seems that these turns will not stop right until the very last page, and the fast-paced action will carry you to that destination before you even realise the hours have past. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a good fast-paced mystery novel that ultimately has you questioning everything, and everyone.

5/5.

Love In The Time Of Cholera. - Gabriel García Márquez

Synopsis: Florentino Ariza has never forgotten his first love. He has waited nearly a lifetime in silence since his beloved Fermina married another man. No woman can replace her in his heart. But now her husband is dead. Finally - after fifty-one years, nine months and four days - Florentino has another chance to declare his eternal passion and win her back. Will love that has survived half a century remain unrequited?

Review

Well, where do I start with what has been such a wonderfully charming read? I picked this once up on whim from the classics section of a bookstore a couple of months back now, and I certainly haven't been disappointed. It seemed like from the onset something special and poignant was in store, when I discovered that I was to start this novel in the shadows thrown up by candlelight, after my electric had cut out.

From the very first page I was gripped by the imagery thrown up; Márquez writes with such simple but beautiful elegance, and this style continues throughout. For some, the story of a love-stricken man waiting over half a century just to tell his teenage love that his feelings have never changed, could be considered desperate; for others like me, it is a heart-breaking story of love, and I found myself the most sympathetic towards the character of Florentino throughout.

As a young, apprentice telegrapher, immersed in novels and the poetry of love, Florentino Ariza falls hopelessly and irrevocably in love with the haughty teenager Fermina Daza. Although the two barely meet, they manage to continue a passionate correspondence via love-letters and telegrams, until one day, Fermina Daza, realising in a mere heart-stopping moment, that Florentino is more but a 'shadow than a substance,' tragically rejects him and eventually marries the wealthy Dr. Juvenal Urbino instead.

Florentino, who has sworn his undying love to Fermina, is, of course, stricken to the core, but Fermina's marriage is nothing that the young man can't handle. As one century closes and another begins, Florentino Ariza rises through the ranks of the River Company of the Caribbean and sets off on a series of erotic encounters, both 'long term liaisons and countless fleeting adventures', all of which he chronicles. Despite this, his real love is for Fermina Daza, and although many women come and go, he maintains the belief that his destiny is to be with his teenage sweetheart, no matter how long it takes.

Fifty-one years, nine months and four days after Fermina Daza's wedding, on Pentecoast Sunday, fate intervenes and Fermina becomes a free woman yet again. When he finally gets the opportunity to declare his love once more, the reader holds its breath in anticipation for what she will say. It is in vain, however, as although we have an initial answer, all is not revealed, as the story back-tracks and sends us on the spiralling journey the two have taken to reach the place of that very meeting; we are left waiting another couple of hundred pages before we get some actual finality in our answers. This is a story of monumental proportions: Florentino's love for Fermina is endless: she is the one he wishes to be with after all this time. Will he get the chance, when old age has crept upon them both, or will he be rebuffed once more and left to suffer with the fact his wait was for nothing?

In essence, this is a novel that tackles the issue of love in all its forms, and although reading it on the surface as a simple story between the two young lovers Florentino and Fermina can be rewarding, to look beyond the realms of surface meaning is where the reader can truly recognise Marquez's brilliance. Unrequited love, jealous love, angry love, and adulterous love: the author mediates a discussion on all the different forms love can take, in what is such a remarkable and fantastically written novel.

5/5.

Freedom

It's a strange word freedom, but one which has taken on a whole new meaning for me in the past few days; with my exams over with, school officially done forever, summer has more or less begun.

The past couple of months have been exhausting for me, both mentally and physically, but at last I can now allow myself to relax and take a break; something I haven't had much chance to do recently.

So I know I posted around a month ago on what would be coming to the blog, but I have changed my mind ever so slightly on that front. I said in the aforementioned post that I would be following the 1001 series' Albums To Listen To Before You Die, but I have changed my mind. I only really listen to one genre of music nowadays, and that is hip hop, so I have instead decided that my music posts will follow this. I may deviate once in a while, but most of my album reviews will be from there or new releases.

As for the bookish side of things, I am certainly eager to offer my recommendations and reviews on both classic and contemporary novels. The first review that will be coming after this weekend, perhaps tomorrow, is that of Gabriel García Márquez's fantastic novel Love In The Time Of Cholera. The first of many to come, I am sure.

Aside from this I have a whole host of different posts lined up; reviews of film, music, television and sport. Now I have this sense of freedom I do hope to bring something to the blog, and of course if anyone does read it and has any requests, please feel free to email me or leave me a comment anywhere on the blog.

Ben.

Freedom

Here's another, three guesses for what this is about.

Freedom

Finality is fast approaching now,
That prevailing sense of relief,
The tension ebbs, the stress released,
There shall be no more grief.

We struggled through and onwards,
Past all that would distract,
In the end remains one shock,
How is our sanity still intact?

Still even when you're finished,
You sit and ponder how you did,
Wondering, will it be quite enough?
These thoughts you should forbid.

Don't look over your shoulders,
Ignore the future yet to come,
Bask in the summer sunshine,
It's over now, you're done.

Leave it left forgotten,
Until there is but no other choice,
Go enjoy yourself, that's freedom,
Live life and just rejoice.

© Ben Johnson 2011.

Breaking Out

Writers-block will be the death of us all

Breaking Out

The light fades slowly, to the depths of darkness

As the sun wavers, it melts into the night sky

Daring dreams of hope plague my mind;

I sit here wondering, pondering why

My words describe my feelings so true,

Pouring my heart through this pen it bleeds,

And as the time arrives I become weary;

Rhymes scream out, can anyone hear me?

A stream of unified consciousness,

Prompting daggers, my splatters paper

Ideas of ambition break free, gone, so fleeting,

Eyes filled with sadness as thoughts turn to vapour

It was once so enjoyable, now conflict arises,

In every syllable I struggle to breath life too,

Confidence significant in absence, so dreadful;

The strain appears so obvious, so painful and undue

Recognition equates to merely infinite hope,

A dream yet a nightmare, I am still to wake from;

Tragic conflict ends in mere moments from now,

Letting go, my words I eradicate, they are gone

© Ben Johnson 2011.

CJ de Mooi

Okay, so I know I said I wouldn't be posting for while, but I couldn't pass up on the opportunity to interview CJ de Mooi; a fantastic quizzer, and soon to be famous actor I'm sure. In any case, the questions and answers are below, enjoy.

Q. I'll start with the basics; how did you realise your enthusiasm for knowledge and love for quizzing? Were you the typical academic type who loved to learn at school, and just carried that forward in later life?

I hated school and standardised methods of learning. An academic education doesn't provide an education, it merely provides basic tools to pass the exams and once a pupil has passed from that system, he or she is somebody else's problem (usually no-one's) I was lucky in that I had a very good memory so I was able to just remember anything I wanted but there was still the feeling with a couple of the teachers that they themselves were simply one lesson ahead of those they were supposed to be preparing for adult life.

Q. What advice would you give to those looking to build up a base of facts quickly and effectively: is there certain techniques that you find helpful when reading around a subject?

Although it's tedious, the one thing you can't escape from is the learning of lists. There are so many basics such as UK Monarchs, US Presidents, Capital Cities and Olympic Games years but I can't emphasise the importance of dates too. A problem for me when starting out at the top level of quizzing was that I could only see history as a collection of disparate facts but once I learnt the dates, the story came together as a linear strand and it was much easier to relate events when I understood quite simply how they followed or preceded each other.

Q. Being an avid viewer of Eggheads, I enjoy watching the quiz battles that you take part in. Is your time with your team-mates always spent quizzing, or do you get the opportunity to spend time with them outside of the studio? If so, do you all get on well? (I can imagine debates get quite serious in such an intellectual group)

I spend a little social time with Kevin outside of the studio as I've pretty much given up full time quizzing, this tends to be just social. When I went to the formal quiz events, I would see Pat and Barry there regularly, and occasionally Daphne and Chris.

Q. Anyone that pays any attention to either your tweets or your comments on the television will note that you do enjoy your tennis and snooker. Have you always enjoyed them sports or did you have different preferences when you were younger? (PS: I'm very jealous of the pictures you put up from the World Championships this year)

I've never been into sport at all, having virtually never watched it and certainly never playing. However, snooker and tennis have always held my fascination with the former being a lifelong love and the latter being something in which my interest has waxed and waned over the years (when I was younger I found men's tennis tedious and would generally only watch women's but that situation has now reversed)

Q. From your twitter account I have also gathered that you have an interest in performing and of course for the West End. Are you a big fan of going to theatre as well? If so what are some of your favourite things that you have seen over the years?

Being an actor is the only thing I've ever really wanted to do. Before Eggheads there was no such thing as a professional quizzer and although I've enjoyed my time on the show, when one has a burning desire to do something else, that has to be quenched. Musical theatre is where my passion and abilities lie so I'm trying everything at the moment to get into the West End and won't rest until I've succeeded. My favourite musical is Priscilla Queen of the Desert and that would indeed be my dream job but there are several others I would be utterly delighted to be considered for. Outside of the genre though, one of the nest nights out I ever had was going to see the stage version of Frost/Nixon (I actually went with Kevin) starring Michael Sheen and Frank Langella before the film was made. An utterly superb production and much funnier and satirical than its later incarnation. However, this wouldn't be for me and my humble talents and musicals are my direction and where my career is heading.


CJ in the middle on the set of popular quiz show, Eggheads.

Q. Best of luck with the marathon(s) that I believe you have coming up soon. What times are you looking to rack up? Also, which charity will you be supporting? (I have a lot of admiration for people that put the hard-work and effort in before-hand with these races, like your good self)

The one 'sport' I actively take part in is running. Although I find the training extremely boring, I do have a talent for it and have several half and full marathons booked, and will be aiming for a sub 3 hour time when I run in London next April and well under 90 minutes for the halves. At the Great North Run I'm supporting Stonewall, The Cardiff Half is for Barnardos, The Brighton Half for The Sussex Beacon and the London Marathon is for my personally favourite charity The Albert Kennedy Trust.

Q. Lastly, I'd like to ask where you see yourself in ten years time? Do you feel that your performing breakthrough is just around the corner? (Lord knows, if anyone deserves the breakthrough for hard-work and persistence, you do)

I'm working very hard on my singing and especially my fitness and body appearance (both for vanity and West End expectations!) as performing is the only place I want to be and the only place I can see myself. I imagine Eggheads will be long finished by then (although who could have dreamed we'd already have lasted 8 years with another 2 at least and pass 1000 episodes with successful spin offs and merchandising?) There's always the option of retiring to a quiet island somewhere but I'm an applause junkie and think the draw would be too much!

I'd like to thank CJ for taking out the time to answer these questions and for giving me this chance to ask him a few questions.

Hiatus.

Okay, so the fact that I haven't posted in over a month now, explains in a self-explanatory fashion how frantically busy I have been. I will make a promise to you now that I do have plans for this blog, but unfortunately they have been put on hold for the time being, until we near the end of next month.

When I return to posting frequently, I want nothing more than to start taking this blog to new heights, and I have numerous ways in which I am planning on doing that. Firstly, over the past few weeks I have noticed that my film knowledge is, to my shame, completely lacking. As a result I am making the promise right here that once I regain some freedom, I will be producing many film reviews; both classic and contemporary. In doing this, I will be taking advice from film lists and friends, in order to make the films I do watch, worthwhile.

Following in the same vein, I will be also undertaking another challenge, but this time with a list to guide me. I have decided that from now on, I am going to follow the '1001 albums you should listen to before you die' series. I will post a few comments on each album as I go: not strictly a review, as I don't claim to be an expert on music, and I'm quite sure there are enough music critics to go around on the web, but a few of my humble thoughts. I'm quite exited for this as it will hopefully allow me to develop a wider, more diverse taste in music.

Last but not certainly not least, I also intend to read a fair few books over this summer. As I will hopefully be partaking in an English Literature and Creative Writing course come September, I feel it is my duty to become more widely-read; this will be mostly in terms of classics, books I 'should read', but I will also follow new, contemporary releases as well.

As you can see, I have a busy summer ahead, but they are just the plans for the blog. I also intend to write a lot this summer, which will mean there may be extra posts with poems and novel extracts appearing also; please forgive the self-indulgence. I hope that I can provide this blog with a real push of quality posts in approaching times, and build a following of readers that will enjoy what I write. Bare with me for now; the posts are coming.

Ben.

Caught. - Harlan Coben

Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Haley McWaid never gave her parents a moment's worry. Until one morning her mother wakes to find that Haley didn't come home the night before. Three months quickly pass without a word, and everyone assumes the worst. Wendy Tynes is a reporter on a mission: to identify and bring down sexual predators via televised sting operations. Her latest target is Dan Mercer, a social worker known as a friend to troubled teens. But his story soon becomes more complicated than Wendy could have imagined. Caught tells the story of a missing girl, the community stunned by her loss, the predator who may have taken her, and the reporter who suddenly realises she can't trust her own instincts about this story - or the motives of the people around her..

Thoughts

This was another first; my first Coben, and I'm certainly impressed by what I've read. The mere fact that I read this one sitting is tribute to the pace of the novel, and the hold it has over a reader; captivating and exhilarating.

A young girl gone missing without a trace; a man accused of paedophilia, forced into hiding; a television reporter caught up in something she could have never imagined. Coben writes with such brilliance; twists and turns that just when you think they have stopped, continue to shock and surprise as you flick the pages.

His language doesn't just capture the reader, it's thought-provoking as well. Not everything is as it seems, and it's difficult to know who can be trusted. Everyone has their motives, and someone wants to see those around them crash and burn. If you enjoy a cracking thriller that has you questioning throughout, grab this when you can.

5/5.

Spirited

Here it is, only my second ever non-rhymed poem. There's something about it I like, even if it's just an experiment more than anything.

Spirited

Innocence deemed so pure, yet still we suffer
From the mistakes which plague us when we rest
A broken, shattered heart so consumed by anguish;
Breaking the barrier of emotion, flowing tears of blood

Light dazzles on, powering through the bounds of evil;
Victorious in struggling free; an unstoppable energy
So powerful and so blinding; a transcendence
Which forces enlightenment into impossibility

The sun settles softly, a shimmer in the summer sky,
Shining down on all as a single ray of hope
Sweeping troubles and struggles straight away;
Spirits soaring; a sudden, sweet surprise

Look beyond the restraints of life; gaze beyond,
The world is your oyster; limitless opportunity waits,
If you escape the shackles, the shadows of lies
The words will write themselves, the freedom found.

The pain lifts, the tunnels of light stretch ahead,
Yet the hesitance stops you from battling onwards.
You know the answer is clear, that much is certain;
It is time to break out from the cage that holds you in

© Ben Johnson 2011.

Lid of Life

Something I wrote in class when I could hardly concentrate. A non-rhyming poem coming soon, as someone has said that I religiously use rhyme and it's time to prove that wrong.

Lid of Life

The dark shapes of life litter the early morning sky,
Eyes scanning across the moors, we gaze up high.

The wind whistles wildly through the bitter school air;
Steps leading nowhere, as we stop and stare.

Contrasting peace with a world full of sound;
No more interruptions, tranquillity found.

Silence stretches onwards, it rolls across the hills;
A gnarled tree deformed; swishing daffodils.

The poets sigh as their pens splatter the page;
They go unrecognised, in such a dying age.

Clouds swirl in the wind; the dreams to cope;
The cold strikes through the heart as you dare to hope.

© Ben Johnson 2011.

The Whole Truth. - David Baldacci

Synopsis: 'I need a war ...' Nicolas Creel, a super-rich arms dealer, decides that the best way to boost his business is to start a new cold war - and he won't let anything or anyone get in his way. As international tensions rise and the superpowers line up against each other, the lives of three very different people will never be the same again. As intelligence agent Shaw, academic Anna Fischer and ambitious journalist Katie James are all drawn into Creel's games, can anything stop the world from spiralling out of control? This terrifying global thriller delivers all the twists and turns, emotional drama, unforgettable characters and can't-put-it-down pacing that Baldacci fans expect - and still goes beyond anything he's written before.

Review

Well this was my first Baldacci, and despite a few people saying it wasn't one of his best, and probably not the most suitable to start with, I thought I'd crack on with it anyway. I wasn't disappointed.

It was a good read; fast-paced, full of action, and the different threads of relationships through the characters, were just great. Agent Shaw is fantastic; strong, resolute, and will do anything to fight for the one he loves. He's learnt the art of survival, how to look after himself with the odds stacked against him, and it stands him in good stead when getting out of a good scrape.

However, his line of work is dangerous and he is unable to retire and concentrate on the love of his life; a hold over him that he can't shake free. Elsewhere a man turns the world against each other; an international disaster and nobody can stop him as the world spirals out of control. Ambitious journalist Katie James is also caught up in events, even if she does have her own demons to wrestle with.

I enjoyed the twists and turns which kept me guessing right until the end. Is it too late for the world on the eve of a new Cold War? Read this fantastic thriller to see for yourself.

4/5.

Oncoming Storm.

Concept idea based on 'the gothic'; including some of the texts I've studied at school. It's littered with references; see if you can spot them all.

Oncoming Storm

Shadows stretch onwards, through the night so dreary;

Nevermore the raven flies, its wings become so weary.

The night draws inwards; silence from all around;

Stolen whispers litter the air; hushed, the only sound.

Within those castle walls, the two lovers dream;

They sky tainted red with blood: the perfect scheme.

When with it comes murder, the king's reign at an end;

Onwards he will lie, the betrayal of a friend.

In a world elsewhere, the end becomes closer;

The final note delivered, like a music composer.

When all of a sudden, the sky shatters with thunder;

The rain lashes down; it makes us all wonder.

How the work has gone wrong, a monster creation;

A horror so breathless; the result of temptation.

The victor left broken, consumed and aggrieved;

The final realisation, of what he's conceived.

One preached to all, the root of all evil;

Money is the cause, the tale so medieval.

Another so vain, so concerned with his own needs

Selling relics with lies, laughing at those he misleads.

All through the lands, the storm rages on through;

A scientist battles onwards, he has work to pursue.

© Ben Johnson 2011.

The Struggle

Something fresh from the press. It's not too bad I suppose; something different about it though.

The Struggle

People often ponder; they pursue your every move,

Always make suggestions, fuelled with something to prove.

Instead they have no idea; they don't hold the final clue,

Nobody understands the frustration, no one really knows you.

Maybe it's just their ignorance, blinding them from sight;

I know they know you suffer; pain shatters through the night.

Silence stretches onwards; the dejection simply endless,

Ever lonely you shall wander; dreaming, forever aimless.

Reaching out for redemption, but it's merely all in vain;

Your sudden resolution: you shall never love again.

Sometimes you'll start to reason, accept that it's all over;

Our luck has but run so dry; I lost her four-leafed clover.

Resolute wistful wishes, that you know just won't come true;

Rejection cuts deep within the heart; a sword that sliced on through.

Our time together was oh so special, so treasured and so kind;

We're over now, that much is certain; but can the past be put behind?

© Ben Johnson 2011.

Frankenstein - National Theatre Live

Hey folks, long time no see. I've been a little busy recently so hence the lack of reviews. However, today I have something a bit different for you few readers that check in every now and again. Last night I was lucky enough to get to see Danny Boyle's adaptation of Frankenstein screened live from the National Theatre in London onto the big screen at Bradford's National Media Museum. The main actors - Jonny Lee Miller & Benedict Cumberbatch - alternate the roles each night, and we got to see Benedict in the role of the Creation. In any case, I'll post a little introductory paragraph from the website to introduce things, before going on to tell you my thoughts.

Benedict Cumberbatch as the Creature.

I followed nature into her lair, and stripped her of her secrets! I brought torrents of light to a darkening world! Is that wrong? 

Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless Creature, increasingly desperate and vengeful, determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Benedict Cumberbatch (The Creature) & Jonny Lee Miller (Victor Frankenstein)

Okay, so where on earth do I begin this one? Once again I feel that any attempt to review such a fantastic production will be in vain; for there is surely not enough superlatives to describe how wonderful this piece really was. It was a piece of theatre that simply had my captivated for two hours; from the moment Cumberbatch entered the stage, naked and writhing with the agony of a new-born, I was entranced; my eyes dared not leave the screen.

From that moment in, an intense silence settled over the audience; a tribute to how ensnared by the performance we all were. This was a silence only broken for the recognition of the many small jokes and jibes that littered the play throughout. For many, this goes somewhat against the feel of the Gothic genre, but I feel that it simply added to the performance; the relationship between the actors upon stage and the audience, sat watching in anticipation. 

The way in which the stage was designed and used for maximum potential, was just simply brilliant. There was sunshine, rain, snow; numerous props and lighting effects used fantastically and emphatically to recapture the significance of nature prominent within Mary Shelley's novel. A moving central platform allowed for quick scene changes; dynamic and infused with the energy and music to build anticipation as the players moved to the next scene.

For me the only negative was that I felt Nick Dear's script let down the piece somewhat. It's simplicity was noticed by many who watched; yet nevertheless I feel that Miller and Cumberbatch delivered their lines with such emotion and energy that the audience could not help but listen to every word. Frankenstein in essence of course, focuses on a consideration of questions: morality, love, hurt and abandonment, and I feel these are just a few of the themes that the players last night managed to deliver with such subtle genius. 

So, in conclusion I feel that this was one of the most exciting, fresh performances that I have seen in a long time; and I'm sure it will go on to be talked about by many for months and years to come. Danny Boyle, Nick Dear and everyone involved should be proud that they managed to bring a nineteenth century novel to the stage so fantastically; with a new, energetic slant and blended with the modern so brilliantly.

All in all, yesterday evening, Victor Frankenstein's Creation, truly came to life.

Black Swan

Synopsis: A ballet dancer wins the lead in "Swan Lake" and is perfect for the role of the delicate White Swan - Princess Odette - but slowly loses her mind as she becomes more and more like Odile, the Black Swan.

Thoughts

Okay so for a long time I debated about whether I should finally sit down and watch this film; I'd heard good things, bad things, and of course it was winning awards aplenty. I like to think I'm not a naive person, but I foolishly led myself to believe that this would be a film solely based on ballet, and therefore I wouldn't enjoy it at all.

I can safely say now that I was wrong. The principle plot within the film is one in which we say a young girl, Nina (Natalie Portman) struggle for her breakthrough into the ballet limelight; something she's worked for, aiming for perfection all her life.

But in this case, perfect is too much. As she fights to win the lead part in Swan Lake, she struggles to let herself go; to let herself be at one with the music. She must play the parts of both the White Swan and the Black; the former she can do gracefully, wonderfully, flawlessly. However, Nina doesn't have the eccentricity or flair needed to become the Black Swan, and she goes home in tears at losing her chance; dejected, defeated and alone.

She doesn't give up, however; the next day she storms into the director's offers and asks for the place. Thomas looks at her, telling her she doesn't have the edge needed to be who he needs. He leans in to try kiss her and receives a bite to the lip in response. This makes him see that Nina has potential, casting her in the lead role and from then on transforming her life entirely.

Mystery and intrigue leave the audience captivated for the rest of the film, as we begin to see Nina consumed by the stress of her role. She becomes confused, believing Lily (Mila Kunis) her under-study, is trying to steal her role away from her. Her mind becomes a mess of incoherent thoughts, dark and disturbing, intense, leaving the audience entranced by what they are seeing on screen.

This film is simply beautifully crafted, and with such careful precision. As the audience becomes drawn in by Nina's sudden loss on reality, the film moves towards a tremendous climax; one which epitomises the entire film's message and direction. If you are interested in films which capture you and never let you go until their very conclusion; films that can be racy and mysterious, captivating yet dark and disturbing, then Black Swan is for you.

5/5.

The Rembrandt Secret - Alex Connor

Synopsis: A serial killer keeping the past's darkest secret hidden. A centuries-old conspiracy is about the explode into the present with devastating consequences. The first victim was forced to swallow stones. The second victim was whipped to death. The third was stabbed in the heart. A deadly serial killer is taking people down across London and New York. What did they all know? Why were they butchered? Who else is in the killer's sights? And how can they be stopped?

Review

Okay, so although I said I was starting this novel a few days back, I only managed to get around to starting yesterday. By the end of the day I had finished; one sitting, four hundred and forty-eight pages. A truly fantastic read.

This novel is one which is written so wonderfully; the story seemingly weaved so effortlessly, but with yet such precision. What makes the novel so intense, such a page-turner, is the pace at which the story flows. From London to New York, from galleries to exhibitions, a tale so gripping; dripping with mystery, intrigue and the blood of those murdered in an effort to keep a secret that will turn the art scene on its head, and ruin the reputation of one of the greatest artists to ever live.

The secrets are never-ending, the characters consistent in their battle for success and power; doing anything and everything to achieve their goals and stop themselves from going under. Someone believes that the papers are important enough to murder, to torture; recreating scenes in such a way that shows in a sadistic manner that he's cultured and recognises the importance of the Rembrandt letters.

Nobody can be trusted, everyone has a motive, and it's impossible to know who to have on your own side. Is it someone trustworthy, believable; someone malicious and manipulative? You'll find yourself engrossed, captivated by events, following the characters' journeys like its conclusions will go so far as to effect even you.

If you enjoy a roller-coaster of a novel; fraught with danger, deception, cunning, remorse and revenge - but at the same time littered with instances of love, affection and heartbreak - then this novel is for you. It has everything to keep you entranced, glued to your seat, for even when you think the surprises have stopped and the end reached, the shocks won't falter; everyone has something to hide, perhaps some people more than others.

5/5.

The Redbreast. - Jo Nesbo

Synopsis: Harry Hole, drunkard, loner and brilliant detective is reassigned to surveillance after a high profile mistake. He's bored by his new job until a report of a rare and unusual gun being fired sparks his interest because of its possible links to Neo Nazi activity. Then a former soldier is found with his throat cut. Next Harry's former partner is murdered. Why had she been trying to reach Harry on the night her head was smashed in? The investigation leads Harry to suspect that the crimes have their roots in the battlefields of Eastern Front during WWII. In a quest that takes him to South Africa and Vienna, Harry finds himself perpetually one step behind the killer. He will be both winner and loser by the novel's nail-biting conclusion. The Redbreast. He's your judge, jury and executioner... And he must be stopped.

Review

Okay, so I have just finished up the last hundred pages or so of The Redbreast and I have to firstly say that for me the conclusion delivered perfectly. I didn't settle into this novel with a blistering pace, even abandoning it for a while to read something fresh. However, once I allowed myself to settle in, the novel got progressively better.

I enjoyed the way Nesbo weaves the different characters' stories into one spectacular story-line which leaves you flipping the pages in anticipation throughout. Those more observant reader will pick up the clever twists and turns, but nevertheless the author delivers them fantastically.

In essence this novel is one of revenge, tragedy, love and heartbreak, as you begin to feel what the different characters are going through. An old man who wants nothing more than to deliver the revenge he feels is necessary; a policeman struggling with the death of a comrade; the strikingly beautiful women he loves but who is also loved by another, a man in a position of high-standing, determined to have her for his own.

The many plots and sub-plots of this novel make for an entertaining read and I think I'll be looking for more of Nesbo's work soon.

4/5.

Midnight Sun

Okay, this is the most recent of my work; there's still something I'm not quite feeling about it, but again needed to get some thoughts down.

Midnight Sun

There will often be moments in life,

When you care far more than it appears;

When you're surely too scared to confess,

And to face up to your sudden fears.

You suffered in painful silence,
You considered, pondered too long;
Then all of a sudden it became too late,
To right the things you did wrong.

You believed that time was on your side,
That those difficult decisions could wait;
Although at heart you knew what was right,
You faltered; acted far too late.

Stop, pause, think back, reflect upon,
Those ridiculous mistakes you so often made;
That fantastic future you always wished for,
Had begun to steadily shimmer and fade.

Never hold back again, don't watch from afar,
Fight for that glimmer of hope; that ever-shining star.
Or then yet be left unhappy; consumed, alone, so cold,
I guess you'll truly never forget, those words remain untold.

That persistent, agonising reminder,
Of what you know you should have done,
The frustration etched deep within your heart,
As you gaze wearily up at the pale, midnight sun.

© Ben Johnson 2011.

Duma Key - Stephen King

Synopsis: When Edgar Freemantle moves to Duma Key to escape his past, he doesn't expect to find much there. But Duma Key and its mysteries have been waiting for him. The shells beneath his house are whispering to him, and something in the view from his window urges him to discover a talent he never knew he had. Edgar Freemantle begins to paint. Even though he has lost an arm. And the hand he uses is the one he lost..

Review

Well, where on earth do I start with this one? Towards the final stretch of this novel, I read over two hundred pages in one sitting, and that alone is surely a tribute to how much I enjoyed it.

It is a lengthy read but in some ways you can't even tell; the pages seem to turn themselves as you read on. I was gripped with humour, tension, mystery and in some cases I even paused for a second to think. Now, I'll be the first to admit that any book that has the power to make a reader pause at the end of a sentence and reflect, is surely a book worth reading.

Duma Key is a novel which in essence questions reality itself: it seems to hint that in essence there is no structure to life, only randomness. Throwing aside the idea of fate, of destiny, we are instead led to believe that life and death are purely the product of unrelated and spontaneous events.

This book is both terrifying and beautiful; a book about friendship and about life. I would recommend this novel to anyone who wants to become involved with a journey; a journey which stretches long into the night and the darkness, struggling to find the light.

5/5.

Timeless Values

A recent experiment, differing from what I normally attempt. Something isn't quite right with this.

Timeless Values

Melancholy voices,

A moonlit serenade

Haunted shadows,

The phoenix flies

Whispers conflict
Darkness replenished

Words glitter the page,
Beautiful shimmering gold

Contrasting colours,
Sweet serendipity

Lights dance brightly,
Wind whistles tunelessly

Thoughts distraught,
Destined forever more

© Ben Johnson 2011.

A Clockwork Orange - Anthony Burgess

Synopsis: In this nightmare vision of a not-too-distant future, fifteen-year-old Alex and his three friends rob, rape, torture and murder - for fun. Alex is jailed for his vicious crimes and the State undertakes to reform him - but how and at what cost?

Review

Well, here it is, the third finished novel of the year, and by far the strangest book I've ever had the - shall we say - pleasure of reading.

Although the book deals with some serious issues such as rape, violence and crime - enough to put some people off - I feel that this is a piece of literature that everyone should read. My reasons for this are simple: the novel is thought-provoking, intriguing, and throughout I felt connected with the main protagonist, Alex; perhaps a strange thing to say about a fifteen year delinquent who enjoys gang-crime and extreme violent acts, but who also enjoys classical music. Particularly Beethoven's Ninth.

Some people who will read this novel, will have no sympathy for a child who shows no remorse and causes so much hurt and violence to perfectly innocent people as he turns them into his victims, but as the novel progressed I'm sure that I wasn't the only one who began to sympathise with the troubles that the government force upon him after he is finally arrested and put in jail for his actions.

Now, I feel it necessary to mention the language used within this novel, as it can be challenging at first to understand. I've even know people cast this book away on the principle that they can not get used to the language used; Burgess uses an experimental teenage-slang language at many points during the book. However, I feel that with a little bit of perseverance you can soon begin to decipher what means what, and it doesn't distract from the plot at all.

Now, in conclusion I imagine that opinion about this novel is divided right down the middle; some will say he got what he deserved, others will disagree. I do know one thing for sure: this novel is one that everyone should read at some point in their lives.

5/5.