Magnus Mills

no problem! I'm on a London bus right now as it happens. we are not early

also earlier my other bus raced past some stops even though people signalled and I thought of the book and how there really are drivers like that

Just finished A Cruel Bird Came To The Nest And Looked In. While the internet might be a bit more lukewarm about this one, take it from me: it's a major work, with some of his strongest characterisation and a brilliant, sly resolution. Above all, it's just really charming. So much, he writes about language-choices made in the everyday realm, and how much these choices can signify

I read Restraint of Beasts about ten years ago and I still think about it. It's glib to say 'ooh, Kafka' but it has that same sense of the characters being trapped in some cosmic trap beyond their ken. And, like Kafka, it's very funny. I've, stupidly, not read anything of his since. I shall rectify this.

So much, he writes about language-choices made in the everyday realm, and how much these choices can signify

This sounds interesting, as does this thread (love enthused imago ILB threads!). Will order some for the upcoming holiday! :)