Stephen & Evie | Late Show Book Club

The House at Pooh Corner is a 1928 children's book that follows the adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood. The book introduces the character Tigger and includes various humorous adventures involving misunderstandings, mishaps, and happy conclusions. Illustrated by E. H. Shepard, the book is notable for its charming stories and iconic illustrations. It marks the end of the Pooh saga as Christopher Robin was getting older.

Ulysses is a groundbreaking and complex modernist novel that chronicles the experiences of three Dubliners over a single day. The novel is loosely based on Homer's epic poem 'The Odyssey', with Leopold Bloom paralleling Odysseus, Stephen Dedalus paralleling Telemachus, and Molly Bloom paralleling Penelope. It explores themes such as antisemitism, human sexuality, British rule in Ireland, Catholicism, and Irish nationalism. The novel is known for its innovative use of language and narrative techniques, including stream-of-consciousness and multiple literary styles. It captures the essence of early 20th-century Dublin, providing a detailed snapshot of the city's social, political, and cultural landscape.

Moby-Dick is a novel that tells the story of Captain Ahab's maniacal quest for revenge against Moby Dick, the giant white sperm whale that bit off his leg. Narrated by Ishmael, the story follows the crew of the whaling ship Pequod as they embark on a journey that explores themes of obsession, man vs. nature, and the existential questions of good and evil. The novel is rich in detailed descriptions of whale hunting and life aboard a culturally diverse crew, and it has become a cornerstone of American and world literature.

Now We Are Six is a delightful collection of children's poetry by A. A. Milne, following his earlier work 'When We Were Very Young'. The book features whimsical verses that capture the joys and challenges of being six years old, with themes of friendship, adventure, and the innocence of youth. The poems are beautifully illustrated by Ernest H. Shepard, enhancing the childlike wonder and imagination that define this classic work.

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel is a timeless story about love, loyalty, and adaptation in a changing world. Mike Mulligan and his steam shovel Mary Anne, once renowned for their efficiency, struggle to find work as newer technologies emerge. They take on a challenge to dig a cellar for a new town hall in a single day, leading to an unexpected yet heartwarming conclusion. The book explores themes of perseverance and finding new roles in life.

This novel by Niall Williams is a poignant and enchanting portrayal of life in the small village of Faha. The story revolves around Noel Crowe, a 17-year-old former seminary student, and his encounters with Christy, an electrical worker with a long-lost love. The narrative delves into the community's idiosyncrasies, traditions, and the profound changes brought about by the introduction of electricity. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present, recognizing the beauty and joy in everyday moments, and the role of stories in shaping our lives. The book is characterized by its lyrical prose, meandering narrative, and a deep appreciation for the human experience.