'Laurie Graham will make you laugh out loud'

Talking books with Charlotte Endres, office manager, MLA, Dubai

What are you reading now?
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, which is one of our book club summer reads. I'm enjoying this psychological thriller so far, although it's quite confronting, as it deals with mental health issues. I am also re-reading a favourite book of mine Atonement by Ian McEwan. This is a poignant love story, a somewhat sad coming-of-age tale that delves into themes of regret and guilt, with many plot twists along the way. The author's descriptive narrative is startling; he sets the scene brilliantly, and the reader gets a real sense of being there with the character and feeling what they are feeling.

A book that changed your life.
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood. I know this is topical due to the TV series; however, I first read this book when I was at university in the mid-80's. I actually met the author at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and she signed my old, very well-read copy of the book. I was starstruck, to be honest. It was life-changing in the sense that I realised all was not well in the world, in terms of the way women are treated and their role in society. In this dystopian future, women have been stripped of their freedom, while being valued only for their child-bearing capabilities. I felt somewhat fearful for the future to think that humanity can go down these dark paths at times.

Name one underrated book.
The Unfortunates by Laurie Graham - here's an author who will make you laugh out loud. Her turn of phrase is nothing short of brilliant, and you get to know her unusual characters like old friends. The dialogues are snappy and witty, and the storyline is highly entertaining without being too light on substance.

Most memorable book quote.
'When we think of the past, it's the beautiful things we pick out. We want to believe it was all like that' - The Handmaid's Tale. I'm very nostalgic and have learnt to value the positives. I believe there's nothing wrong with looking through rose-coloured glasses!
- Staff reporter