Bedford Borough’s Year of Reading is continuing to spread a love of books across the area – and we’re asking all our councillors to tell us about their favourite books.
This week it’s Councillor James Valentine, who has picked out A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks.
And Councillor Valentine highlighted how, like the very best books, it reveal new layers upon re-reading.
He said; “Set in London during the week leading up to Christmas 2007, A Week in December follows the intersecting lives of seven vividly-drawn characters.
“There is a ruthless hedge fund manager chasing the biggest deal of his career, a newly-arrived Polish footballer, a junior lawyer with too little to do, a student swayed by radical Islamist ideology, a jaded literary critic, a teenage boy lost in a haze of skunk and reality TV, and a woman Tube driver whose daily Circle Line journey connects their worlds.
“Nearly 20 years on, the book remains strikingly relevant. Its sharp observations on the excesses of capitalism, the absurdity of reality television, and the ongoing struggles with addiction feel just as timely today. Faulks delivers biting satire with a deft touch, balancing cynicism with warmth and flashes of hope, especially in moments where unexpected characters connect and find love.”
Councillor Valentine shared his choice as part of Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, a Borough-wide initiative taking place throughout 2025. It features a wide range of events and initiatives to celebrate and promote reading, including town centre performances, literary trails, and author readings.
Most recently it included a Literary Tent at the Kite and Motoring Festival, where the likes of the likes of Olaf Falafel, Michelle Robinson, David Litchfield and Julia Jarman all gave performances for the whole family.
Councillor Valentine added; “A Week in December is a true page-turner, rich with detail and insight. On rereading it years after my first encounter, I discovered new layers and reflections that deepened my appreciation.
“I highly recommend A Week in December - and indeed all of Faulks’ novels - for their compelling mix of humanity, originality, and vivid storytelling. These are books that lift you out of the everyday while urging you to think more deeply about the world around you.”
To find out more or to get involved in Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/yearofreading or email yearofreading@bedford.gov.uk
And remember - if you want to read a copy of A Week in December or any other book recommended by our councillors, you can always see if it's available in one of our libraries!
Visit or call any of our libraries during staffed hours and staff will help you to request titles, remembering to have your library card with you. You can also search the catalogue and request books on the library app or online catalogue using your library card number and PIN. If you’re not sure of your PIN, you can request a reminder. There is a charge for requesting books, but it’s free for children.
Library opening hours, PIN requests, and online catalogue is all accessible on the dedicated page on our website, and the app is called Bedfordshire Libraries in the App Store.