Stan’s the man for a bittersweet tale

9:00am Monday 9th August 2010 in

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Stan Cattermole – Sexy Beast (Collins, £7.99 ) ****
Weird and outrageous were my first thoughts as I began this book, not one I would choose to read. Stan Cattermole is obese and ugly, bullied throughout his schooldays. He now suffers panic attacks and a has severe lack of confidence. Much of the book is based on Stan’s blogging and his desperate, humiliating search for love – or to put it another way, sex. If you can get behind all the explicit language you’ll read a brilliant and cleverly-written story. Hilarious at times and toe-curling, yet sad and bittersweet. A new talent, definitely worth reading.
Patricia Roberts, Brighouse

Paige Toon – Pictures Of Lily (Pocket, £6.99) ****
Lily is only 16 but she falls hopelessly in love with Ben, a man 12 years her senior, who is to be married in a matter of weeks. Although he feels the same about Lily, he never lets on and weds as planned. Ten years pass and Lily still thinks about her lost love every day, but she becomes engaged to Richard. Then one day she meets Ben again and finds out he is divorced. Their love blossoms – but what about Richard? Lily must choose, and it won’t be easy as she loves them both. To find out, read this very charming book.
Betty Williams, 80, retired, Bradford