BBC4 repeating 1984 TV "The Box of Delights" in run up to Christmas

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, The Box of Delights much loved TV version was first shown in 1984 by the BBC, starring Devin Stanfield and Patrick Troughton. I adore it, and mention it here a lot!

It is getting a remastered new Blu-ray and DVD rerelease next week, including a very lengthy new "making of" documentary. But it's also going to be aired on the telly again, in the weeks running up to Christmas, starting with two episodes on the night of 7th December 2024. More details at the Radio Times article about the repeat. There is also a full page article about the programme's anniversary in next week's Radio Times print issue.

Books finished in 2024: mid November edition

Finished loads more books, and just wrapped up my 50th book of the year. I'd set a very modest Goodreads reading goal of 25 books this year. I knew I was intending to read a lot of lengthy books. But I've more than doubled it.

Among the new books, Steeple Chasing was a fun glimpse into church architecture, history and people. Though probably overlong. It did feel like a slog after a while.

Of course I reread Roger Zelazny's Halloween delight! And enjoyed it as much as every year.

Clanlands, by two Outlander actors (one also a hobbit) was fun, and often really insightful into Scottish history. But overly blokey for me.

Mario's Butt was an entertaining perspective on video game characters and design. Though an easier read for those games I was familiar with, having played myself, or watched Martin play.

The Insomniacs After School manga series continues to be enchanting. I already have the next two volumes in hand, ready to continue reading.

Travis Baldree's followup (well more a prequel) to Legends & Lattes was fun, but didn't quite hit the high spots of his earlier book. But a charming fantasy setting, with added bookshop content.

( earlier books... )
1. Steeple Chasing: Around Britain by Church by Peter Ross
2. A Night in the Lonesome October by Roger Zelazny
3. Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare, and a Scottish Adventure Like No Other by Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish
4. Things I Learned from Mario's Butt by Laura Kate Dale
5. Insomniacs After School (manga) volume 4 by Makoto Ojiro
6. Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree