There seems to be a rule that if I like something it is doomed to failure! Now the Booker Prize reverses this: once I have gone off an author he is eligible for all sorts of fame, best sellers and prizes. I have loved Howard Jacobson for years and read every word of his, but the current novel I didn’t enjoy. So it is fitting and ironic that it wins the Booker and will go on to garnish millions in sales in the US. I’m happy for him. I honestly am, but please read some of his earlier ones, he is very good, and very very funny.