Dilworth School

136,421 pages read and 4,495 team points

Team members

Mike Fenwick

3,480 pts

(3,192 pages read)

Richard III

By William Shakespeare

4 stars

Shakespeare’s Richard III is a masterful exploration of ambition, manipulation, and ruthless cunning. Richard, one of the Bard’s most compelling villains, orchestrates his rise to the throne with chilling charm and deception. His wooing of Lady Anne—persuading her to marry him despite his role in her husband’s death—is a brilliant display of psychological mastery. The play’s sharp wit and dark humor make Richard both repulsive and irresistible. Re-reading it before watching the PumpHouse performance deepened my appreciation for its rich language and gripping drama. A must-read (and watch) for lovers of Shakespeare’s most captivating antihero.
In the Lake of the Woods

By Tim O'Brien

3 stars

In the Lake of the Woods by Tim O’Brien is a psychological thriller that plays with memory, trauma, and the unreliability of truth. The story follows John Wade, a politician whose life unravels after a scandal, leading to the mysterious disappearance of his wife. The novel’s fragmented narrative and shifting perspectives create an eerie, suspenseful atmosphere, and the uncertainty of the truth keeps you hooked—at least for a while. But as the novel progresses, the thriller element starts to feel repetitive, and the mystery becomes predictable. A well-written, unsettling read, but it loses its edge. 3/5 Stars
All the Broken Places

By John Boyne

3 stars

All the Broken Places by John Boyne is an interesting follow-up to The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, but it didn’t quite hit the same emotional highs for me. The story follows Gretel, Bruno’s sister, now in her 90s, grappling with guilt and her past. It’s a mix of historical reflection and modern-day drama, with Boyne’s usual easy-to-read prose. While it raises important moral questions, some parts felt a bit forced, and Gretel wasn’t the most compelling protagonist. It had its moments, but it didn’t leave the same lasting impact. A decent read, but not a standout. 3/5 stars
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

By By John Boyne

4 stars

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is one of those books that sticks with you, and re-reading it after years made it feel even more haunting. The story follows Bruno, a naive boy whose father is a Nazi officer, as he befriends Shmuel, a Jewish boy in a concentration camp. Their innocent bond makes the inevitable ending hit even harder. Boyne’s writing is simple but powerful, and the book really drives home the dangers of ignorance. While some debate its historical accuracy, the emotional impact is undeniable. A heartbreaking, thought-provoking read that still packs a punch. 4/5 stars
One Hundred Years of Solitude

By Gabriel Garcia Marquez

3 stars

Rating: 3/5 Tough. Complex narrative structure had me re-reading parts too often to find it a good holiday read.
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow

By Gabrielle Zevin

4 stars

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a well-crafted, emotionally resonant story that offers a deep dive into the complexities of human connection. While Sam’s struggles might feel under-appreciated at times, the book’s exploration of friendship and creativity makes it a rewarding read. 4/5
The Lovely Bones

By Alice Sebold

5 stars

5/5 The Lovely Bones is a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching read that lingers long after the final page. Its unique perspective and exploration of life, death, and the ties that bind make it a memorable and compelling story.
A life Less Punishing

By Matthew Heath

4 stars

4/5 I found the book’s guidance on developing mental resilience especially useful. Heath offers practical exercises and reflections that help build the stoic mindset, making it easier to face setbacks and challenges with a calm and measured approach. The book doesn’t promise a quick fix but rather a gradual shift towards a more grounded and less reactive way of living. Overall, A Life Less Punishing is a valuable resource for anyone looking to incorporate Stoic philosophy into their daily lives. It’s a book that not only teaches but also inspires readers to live with greater intention and composure. For those seeking to cultivate a more resilient and serene approach to life, Heath’s practical wisdom is both a guide and a companion.
A Fine Balance

By Rohinton Mistry

5 stars

A Fine Balance is a thoughtful and moving story about hope, resilience, and the connections we make with others. Mistry’s writing draws you into the characters’ lives, making their experiences feel vivid and relatable. It’s a powerful book that stays with you long after you finish reading, offering a deep look at the challenges of life in a changing world. I gave it a 5/5 although it does get quite grim.

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Dilworth School

136,421 pages read and 4,495 team points

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