A Man and Two Women - Doris Lessing

Advantages: Beautifully written, intriguing and unusual
Disadvantages: Told in two volumes, which may not be of equal appeal to all

...Although this book is, in fact, by the distinguished and versatile novelist Doris Lessing (author of, among much else, “The Golden Notebook”, “The Grass is Singing” and the Canopus in Argos series) it was originally published under a pseudonym – that of the eponymous Jane Somers. In fact, it was initially published as two novels: “The Diary of a Good Neighbour” (1983) and “If the Old Could…” (1984). In her interesting introduction to this edition, Doris Lessing explains why she decided to write under a pseudonym and what subsequently happened. (Lessing’s publishers rejected “Jane Somers”’ first novel out of hand, although it was subsequently accepted by another publisher who commented perceptively that it “reminded them of Doris Lessing”. Few... Read review

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Advantages: Compelling story, beautifully written
Disadvantages: Ending slightly disappointing

...Doris Lessing is an author that I have heard of, but until I read this book, I had no idea what sort of books she wrote. She has certainly had a fascinating life; born to English parents, she lived in Iran until she was five, before moving to Zimbabwe, where she spent her formative years growing up on a farm. The Grass is Singing, first published in 1950, was an international success and her work continues to be reprinted. I was deeply impressed by this book and am only sorry that I did not discover her work before. The story focuses on Mary Turner, the wife of a farmer, who is found murdered on the porch of her home. No-one is really surprised or particularly upset; she is well-known in the area for keeping herself to herself and for treating the local staff badly. After her body is found, we are taken back to her younger days... Read review

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Advantages: Easy to read, compelling
Disadvantages: Dull ending

...Harriet and David Lovatt know that they are made for each other the moment their eyes meet - both want a big house, lots of children and family all around them. And for a time, it seems as if they are going to get exactly that. Their first four children are a delight to raise, and relatives are more than happy to spend time at the Lovatts' house. Then Harriet becomes pregnant for the fifth time - an unexpected pregnancy that is far more difficult than any of her former ones. When the baby is born, it is clear that he is very different from the others - large and clumsy, impossible to please and violent towards others. What exactly has Harriet given birth to? And will their family life ever be the same again? I have read two books by Doris Lessing before, both of which were set in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) where the author was brought... Read review

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