As part of Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, we are asking every councillor to tell us about one of their favourite books.
And this week Councillor Sue Abood told us about the tome which currently has her gripped - The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley.
She said; “I love a historical novel, and I particularly love books on the Arthurian legends and the myths of Avalon and Glastonbury that have endured for centuries.
“This particular novel is part of a series of books on the on legend of Avalon.
“The American author tells the story of Arthur and Camelot from the perspective of Morgaine, Arthur’s half-sister and a priestess from Avalon. It is interesting to read a story of Arthur from the perspective of a woman whose life was both intertwined with his and yet separate.
“All the main well-known characters are in the story - Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, Gawaine, Igraine, Merlin, Nimue… the list goes on. There is magic woven throughout the story along with ancient and secret rites culminating in an event that begins the quest for the Holy Grail. Intrigue and enchantment abound in this book and I’ve found it a real page-turner.”
Councillor Abood shared her 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.
She added; “There are so many good authors whose books I enjoy reading, each with a different gift when it comes to their writing. Some can set a scene so descriptively that you feel you are present in the story. Some can describe a character so well that you feel you know them.
“I love to grab a good novel when I have some free time and the recent good weather has been a great excuse to read in the garden during my work lunch breaks. For me, reading is something I do to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and transport myself to another time or place.”
To find out more or to get involved visit www.bedford.gov.uk/yearofreading or email yearofreading@bedford.gov.uk
And remember - if you want to read a copy of The Mists of Avalon 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.