Cracks in the Ceiling by Dave Cornford

This book comprises a collection of short stories based on the lives of people affected in different ways by the global economic crisis. Some are tales of ordinary people who are faced with losing their jobs and homes, others are about wealthy individuals who have lost millions and are having to drastically rewrite their plans. There is a degree of overlap between some of the stories which adds an additional dimension to the tales as the reader begins to see both sides. It is a very contemporary theme with recession and the possible failure of the Euro still dominating national (and international) headlines.


Although they are short stories the characterisation was well done and the way the relationships between different characters were portrayed made for some touching writing in places. While the author clearly knows his onions when it comes to the financial world and the background to the current turmoil, the content is accessible even to someone like me who is no financial wizard. I found the story about the vulnerability of large organisations thanks to the power of modern technology particularly interesting and enjoyed this as a thoughtful collection that made me stop and think.


Despite the subject matter there were plenty of rays of hope in the book and rather than being slightly depressing the stories of survival and friendship were quite positive. I found it well formatted and don't recall noticing any typos. Overall I really enjoyed this read.


Format: Kindle, review copy
My Rating: 4*