Here are some of my favourite things – books, films and TV – from 2014. These I have enjoyed more than the time invested, enjoyment or education or inspiration being paramount. My own personal criterion by which I judge (TV especially) is “Is my life worth more than this?” by which I mean would I be best off switching off and just sitting quietly instead. The following is my shortlist where I was able to answer “No!” and note that I am not recommending those where I feel I have wasted my vital life force.
I simply remember my favourite things and then I don’t feel so bad – Rodgers & Hammerstein
This piece is dedicated to those who recommended any in this list. Here they are, in no particular order.
BOOKS
Top three:
- Outrageous Openness by Tosha Silver
- E-Cubed by Pam Grout
- The Prosperous Coach by Steve Chandler and Rich Litvin
Close run second choices: Personal by Lee Child and Apple Tree Yard by Louise Doughty
FILMS
Top three:
- The Imitation Game
- Pride
- The Hundred Foot Journey
Close run second choices: Chef and The Judge (that’s two separate films!)
TV
Top three:
- The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies
- The Good Wife season 6
- Strictly Come Dancing 2014*
Close run second choices: The Newsroom season 3 and Happy Valley
What has enlivened, entertained and/or informed you this year?
*If only allowed one choice.