We’ve been asking our very own reference pros to do some referencing of their own and we’ve got their recommendations on the perfect springtime read, menu and get-away location.
Recommended Spring-time read – Natalie Weiner
For Spring, as we’re moving away from long, dark nights, I would recommend something light, untaxing, and entertaining to read. Something like “The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared” by Jonas Jonasson. On his 100th birthday, Allan Karlsson climbs out of his bedroom window at his old people’s home to avoid his own birthday party, and ends up involved with criminals, murder, stolen cash and atom bombs. The story alternates between the present day, and Allan’s unlikely past. Each strand zips along and as they start to veer towards each other and the conclusion, I couldn’t put it down. Bonkers but fun.
Your perfect Spring-time menu – Rhian Harrison
It’s got to be the Greek classic Kleftiko made with spring lamb, lemons, garlic and potatoes all washed down with a chilled, crisp white wine, followed by rhubarb crumble – eaten outside of course (if it’s warm enough).
Your ideal Spring UK get-away – Tony Goodwin
Canal Walks and Bluebell Woods in Hertfordshire. Yes – Hertfordshire! Forget preconceptions of the north London suburbs. Hertfordshire has some excellent walks and places to explore. The Grand Union Canal offers good walks, and interesting conversations with people who have opted out of the property ladder and live on narrow boats [and some interesting houseboat conversions]. Tring is a great start point for exploration. In many ways this is the heart of the Grand Union Canal. Try to see some bluebell woods too, particularly in north Herts. Hitch Wood [near Hitchin] has a way-marked walk which winds through the woods and there are several benches where you can relax and admire the sheets of bluebells under the oak trees. Visit Hitchin for some decent pubs and market town atmosphere and see Letchworth Garden City [The world’s first garden city].