Cracking

There's something particularly satisfying about a book that (a) has a terrific first paragraph and (b) fulfils all the expectations of that high-octane opening.

Mr Gnome and I agree that the text pictured is a tip-top example of a smashing start.

From that first warning 'If' we know we're contemplating potential transgression. We're invited to cross a boundary from the safe world of 'being told' to the altogether more alluring possibilities of finding out for yourself.

Temptation has rarely seemed more irresistible.

I've read these words aloud to umpteen groups of children over the years, and they 'work' every time. Like a spell.

No prizes for the title of the book. But Mr G and I would welcome news of similarly sensational starts.

Monday morning boost

Some like to be soothed into the start of a new working week. But not Mr Gnome. He relishes some cerebral stimulation.

Hence his enjoyment of AN Wilson's weekly World of Books column in the Daily Telegraph.

It's the equivalent of a brisk tutorial with this interesting, provocative writer.

This week, for instance, Mr W recommended four worth-reading titles on the much-discussed topic of fundamentalism.

As a result, Mr Gnome is urging the HB to read The Islamist, by Ed Husain.

Discursive Mr Wilson also managed to comment on the popular telly series Cranford, casually dropping in a daringly incendiary remark, particularly so given the fact that he's writing in the DT.

Did he make a controversial statement about Islam?

Nope. Far, far more shocking.

He outed himself as a shameless non-fan of Cranford's star turn, actress Judi Dench.

In fact, he was really rather rude about the semi-divine Dame.

Rude about Dame Jude? And in the Telegraph?

What next?