Emma Types Stuff

Believe it or not, despite being a massive chocolate fiend, I don't like chocolate Advent calendars. Nor do I like the over-the-top-ones for adults filled with gin, or jewellery or make-up (usually costing a ridiculous amount of money.) For me, Christmas begins more simply, with either an Advent candle or paper Advent calendar (with the only treat behind each window being a little picture.) But the latter is hard to find these days, and the only space I have to put a candle makes them gutter so badly that burning them evenly becomes a complex act of turning and timing.  As my Christmases are increasingly bleak ( no decorations either at home or work, some unhappy memories, little time for friends, extra work responsibilities, body issues, and the prospect of going home not being appealing ) I wanted something to bring me at least a little Christmas joy. So this year I've decided to do something different.  I own five collections of short stories with a festive theme, all havi...

Hey, want to read something about Roald Dahl that isn't tedious debate about his books being re-written by the 'wokist blob'? You may not be alone!  Maybe you aren't defending the problematic nature of some of Dahl's material, but also still have fondness for books that defined thousands - if not millions - of childhoods? Maybe, as a mature adult, you can admit that while he had some nasty beliefs, his life wasn't always a picnic? Maybe you are crazy enough to hold the simultaneous ideas that children shouldn't be taught that ugly = evil but that the idea of blowing up a mean old lady with household products is hilarious for the average six year old? Maybe you feel like a normal person about it all.  We're all just  tired.  Anyway, if you are one of these crazy fools who see in shades of grey, this is the article for you.  I've put together a book rec list inspired by popular Dahl novels, trying my best to match the themes and tone of those books. S...