The Clarkes have written a very concise and helpful little book as “a practical guide to honeymoon sex and beyond”. They describe the book as deliberately brief and introductory … it certainly is that! … but their reason is so that people will read it, rather than leave it amongst the many other things to do, in the busy-ness of preparing for marriage. And it is eminently readable, interspersed with stories of either real or imagined people, to illustrate the point under discussion, and providing helpful issues for a couple to discuss together, under the “Pillow Talk” symbol. For couples in a hurry, and with much to do, this book is a gem, as it can be completely read in a matter of a couple of hours.

In each generation aspects of biblical truth come under attack. We should therefore be profoundly grateful to those who take the time not only to address these criticisms but also to restate biblical truth with power and clarity.

As is the case with other great English detectives of fiction, such as Sherlock Holmes or Lord Peter Whimsy, Christopher Banks solves his cases with the ease and aplomb befitting proper English gentlemen. But perhaps unlike other detective stories, which often feature an omniscient narrator, When We Were Orphans is told solely from Banks’ point of view. Ishiguro uses the first-person point of view of a very limited narrator who speaks very highly of his own accomplishments. We become aware through the course of the novel that despite Banks’ illustrious reputation, Banks is anything but a stalwart bastion of wisdom and circumspection. Instead, he is a man full of cloudy memories and rabbit-trail thoughts.

Ross Saunders led a series of studies at Christ Church, Lavender Bay during Lent in 1999. His insights into the people and events of Jesus’ time in Palestine brought a dramatically enlightening approach to the New Testament accounts of the crucifixion. Following each presentation there was opportunity for discussion and elucidation.

It should not surprise us to read a book about Christian institutions by the General Secretary of one of Australia’s largest religious institutions Bruce Kaye’s examination of "Who are we and where did we come from?" is thoroughly committed to the value of institutions. There is a need for ongoing re-examination, discussion and development. But the value of and need for an overall institution of collective churches governance is never in question.

The True History of the Kelly Gang is Peter Carey’s masterpiece. It represents the apex of his career-long concern to explode Australians’ self-identity.

Athough John Grisham’s reputation for suspenseful legal drama is solid, I was one of the uninitiated until I read The Testament. The experience proved to be less onerous than expected.

The Secret of Saint Nicholas deals with an issue that many parents, not just Christians, find very difficult – what to do about Santa?