So I read Charles Bukowski's Post Office, first published 1971. Until very recently I'd never heard of him but I came across a few quotes online that intrigued me and it made sense to read something of his. Post Office is semi-autobiographical, the story of Henry Chinaski and his life working for the post office, betting, screwing and drinking. The character is a misogynist and if he is any reflection on the author, I should hate him - but there's also a strange charm about him. The book is also pretty badly written, grammatically speaking, and the proofreader in me was dying to take out a red pen - yet perversely, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Will definitely look out for more by Bukowski, and want to read his poetry too.

In a free state - VS Naipaul
Man Booker prize winner in 1971