Each week we bring you a sample of the books we’re reading, the films we’re watching, the television shows we’re hooked on or the music we’re loving.

Deb is reading Astragal by Albertine Sarrazin

If Patti Smith recommends a book I tend to take note. A chance encounter with a glossy magazine with Smith espousing the life-changing charms of Astragal found me jotting down the name Albertine Sarrazin, and searching Readings’ shelves for my target. ‘Oh, it’s THAT book. Of course it is.’

I’d already clocked the book on the shelf: Sarrazin’s ‘striking, remote face’ on the sixties-styled cover had drawn me to it. I’d not found the chance to dip into this newly-released ‘lost classic of 60s French literature’, but with its inevitable introduction by Patti Smith and its Genet and Godard comparisons this slim volume seemed the perfect companion to my recent trip to France. Sarrazin was twenty-nine when she died.

Abandoning her studies for a life of crime and prostitution, the semi-autobiographical Astragal was written from her prison cell and tells the story of Anne, a young woman who crushes her ankle escaping from prison. She is found by Julien, another crim on the run, who spirits her away on his motorcycle. This is a tale of rebellion, romance and survival. Sarrazin is equal parts tough and poetic, her writing style strange, perceptive and hypnotic. Unfailingly cool, this astonishing and enigmatic novel has become my new favourite.

Mark is reading Amnesia by Peter Carey

I’m reading Amnesia by Peter Carey (available in October). It’s a fabulous rant against the US alliance clothed in a marvellous crazy story about hackers, media barons, Carlton and Coburg. I want to go home and finish it right now!

Ed note: Carey will be in Australia briefly later this year to promote the book so watch this space.

Emily is reading Plenty by Ananda Braxton-Smith

On the recommendation of Athina, my colleague at the Malvern store, I’m reading Plenty by Ananda Braxton-Smith (you can read Athina’s review here).

Plenty is the story of a ten-year-old girl who feels very bitter about her parent’s sudden decision to move to the countryside, and of a reviving friendship with a girl who was born in a refugee camp. Although it’s an emotional journey and touches on some serious issues, I’m admiring the author’s light touch and the pace of the story. Maddy, the main character, isn’t a particularly sassy ten-year-old and is in that typical tween stage that can involve the slow, reluctant letting-go of childhood fancies, such as fairies and magic. It’s very well-written with some beautiful imagery. Plenty isn’t a hefty tome but it is for a confident reader of around 8 to 11, though it would also be a lovely book for a parent and child to share.