If you are still looking for Christmas present ideas, why not give a book written by an English author that lives locally here in Switzerland?
We have chosen a selection of eight books covering a variety of genres and to suit all tastes. From a non-fiction book ” The Greatest Photography Tips in the World” by Alistair Scott (an author who lives in Gland), to a young adult book, “Untethered” by Katie Hayoz. Katie’s book was a finalist in the Mslexia 2013 novel competition.
Then there is a murder mystery novel “Murder in Paris” written by D-L Nelson who lives in Geneva, to a fascinating biography , “The Banker’s Daughter” written by Caroline Thonger on Eva Steinthal, born in the last decade of the 19th century, the third of seven children of one of the richest Jewish men in Berlin.
Crossing Qalandiya” is an extraordinary true story written by Daniela Norris and Shireen Anabtawi about two women who meet at a party in Geneva – both are mothers, both a similar age. But one is Israeli, the other Palestinian. So divided by fear and hatred are their two countries, they realise they will never be able to visit one another at home, despite living less than 100km apart. So, they begin to exchange letters. See below to find out what happens next and read more about this book.
“Rapeseed” is a multicultural novel about a synesthetic expatriate called, Carolann Cooper. She sees her letters and numbers and her turbulent memories in colour, accompanied by blended senses of smell, music, and texture. This book is by American Nancy Freund who lives in Lausanne.
All the above authors are members of the Geneva Writers’ Group. The group meets monthly, from September to June at the Geneva Press Club, with a programme of writing workshops, critiquing sessions, and master classes. Membership is open to all who wish to develop their creative writing skills. encouragement and support are given to both beginning and published writers.
The founder of the group, Susan Tiberghien has published several books and we have chosen one of these, the excellent “One year to a Writing Life” as a suggested Christmas present, an ideal gift if you know of anyone who is interested in writing fiction or non-fiction.
And finally, don’t forget Living in Nyon’s own book “Living along Lac Léman“. This book is a light hearted look at living along lake Geneva, it’s a selection of columns that have been published in English in La Côte newspaper. From “Fondue Fuddle” to learning French, to observations on Swiss street names it will help you to get to know a bit more about the customs and culture living in this part of Switzerland. The book can be ordered online through this site or can be purchased in Payot Nyon, other local retails outlets and new ! it is now available in Munchkins café in Founex.
Book 1 – “Untethered” by Katie Hayoz -a book for young adults
“Untethered” by Katie Hayoz – Katie is American and lives in Geneva. Katie says, “The age range for this book is 13+ but adults can appreciate it too!” See more of Katie’s writing on her own website, you can order her book on Amazon here. Here is her author page on Amazon.Finalist in the Mslexia novel competition, “Untethered” explores the intoxicating and dangerous world of jealousy and obsession when coupled with paranormal ability. It is a touching, sometimes funny, sometimes heart-breaking novel that speaks to the self-doubt lurking in us all.
Synopsis – Sylvie has been best friends with Cassie forever. But everything is turned around when the boy Sylvie’s loved since fifth grade falls for Cassie. Devastated, Sylvie intends to get Kevin by any means possible, even if it involves treachery, deceit, and the dark side of astral projection. She is positive her plans will give her what she wants, but she doesn’t count on it all spiraling out of control.
Book 2 “Rapeseed” by Nancy Freund
“Rapeseed” by author Nancy Freund – Nancy is American and she lives near Lausanne. Read reviews of Rapeseed here on Goodreads. The book can be ordered through “Off theShelf English Book Shop” in Geneva and is also available on Amazon.
Synopsis – “Rapeseed” is a many-coloured, multicultural novel about a synesthetic expatriate, Carolann Cooper. She sees her letters and numbers and her turbulent memories in colour, accompanied by blended senses of smell, music, and texture. When her family moves from small town Kansas to London, the upheaval cracks open her colourful history and exposes secrets she has kept with her husband — and from him too. At the same time, her teenage son Chip is tempted by risky new freedoms. Carolann has to urgently find out who she really is, to reconcile her past with her fragile family’s future. “Rapeseed” is a sensitive coming-of-age novel about a teenage boy, a remarkable adult coming-of-age novel about Carolann, and a family’s coming-of-age novel… because families evolve and come of age too.
Book 3 “The Banker’s Daughter” by Caroline Thonger – Synopsis of the book, see image below. Caroline lives in the pretty village of Grimentz in the Valais. For a copy of the book email her at cthonger@gmail.com – 20 CHF including all postage+packing.
Book 4 – “Murder in Paris” by D-L Nelson. D-L is American and spends her time between Geneva and Argelès sur Mer in the South of France. This book is part of the “five star” mystery series. You can see more D-L’s writing and other novels on her own website here Her books are available on Amazon
Synopsis – Murder in Paris – Tech writer Annie Young breaks her engagement when her fiancé forbids her to take an assignment documenting a Paris dig at the site of a thirteenth century inn supervised by her old lover archaeologist Luca Martinelli. Amelie, (another dig volunteer) is found shot on the site. Luca, Amelie’s lover is in the process of a divorce and is a prime suspect.
Book 5 “Crossing Qalandiya” by Daniela Norris and Shireen Anabtawi
“Crossing Qalandia” by Daniela Norris and Shireen Anabtawi.
The co- author of this book Daniela Norris. You can find out more about Daniela, her other work and writing on her own website here
Synopsis -Two women meet at a party in Geneva – both mothers, both a similar age. But one is Israeli, the other Palestinian. So divided by fear and hatred are their two countries, they realise they will never be able to visit one another at home, despite living less than 100km apart. So, they begin to exchange letters. As their friendship grows they discuss not only their families, childcare and recipes, but also the wars and ethnic tensions that have shaped their lives. Their exchange is fraught with challenge, but also a sincere desire on each side to understand the thinking and grievances of the other. This is a moving and illuminating exchange of ideas at once accessible and profound, personal and political – and a beacon of hope in the wilderness of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.
Book 6 “One year to a Writing Life” by Susan Tiberghien
This book is “An innovative portable workshop to give readers a solid foundation for their writing careers and to lead them to a writing life”. See Susan’s website here The book is available here or via Off theShelf English book shop in Geneva.
Book 7 ” The Greatest Photography Tips in the world” by Alistair Scott
Content – This fully-illustrated, 200-page hardback book is the perfect guide to using your camera more effectively. Though written with a humorous tone, it gives serious guidance on everything from buying your equipment, through using the camera’s exposure controls, to techniques for portrait, landscape and family photography. There is even a chapter on earning cash from your camera. You can buy personalised, signed copies from the author’s website here.
Book 8 Finally, don’t forget the “Living along Lac Léman” book. Living in Nyon’s own book. Read more about the book and order it here
Just 29 CHF a copy. Free delivery within the Nyon, Prangins, Rolle, and Coppet region For other areas – Postage per book – Courier B CHF – CHF 1.80 Courier A CHF 2.00 or pick up a copy in local retail outlets more details here