Brian Aldiss

After the launch of our new Book Club last week, Waterstones in Oxford and Witney have both reported a significant surge in sales of our first Book of The Month, Getting Rid of Matthew by Jane Fallon.

Oxford Mail Books Editor Andy Ffrench said of this romantic comedy: "Fallon writes her way out of the chick-lit straitjacket in a very sassy way. Both male and female readers will both get a real kick out of this story."

Colin Shone, manager of Waterstones in Broad Street, Oxford, said he was delighted by the success of the book club launch.

"We're delighted to be involved because it highlights the fact that reading IS exciting, and is something anyone can be involved with," he said.

Gareth Alder, manager of the Witney branch in Woolgate added: "It's nice to see that readers of the Oxford Mail share our enthusiasm for a good book and we look forward to welcoming more in the coming weeks. If you haven't got involved yet, there is still plenty of time."

In addition, Brian Aldiss, one of the world's most influential science fiction writers, has given his support. Mr Aldiss, 82, who lives in Headington, said: "I think it's a great idea for the Mail to set up a book club in this learned city. Once people have read a certain title they can all get together and have a very lively conversation."

Mr Aldiss's short story Supertoys Last All Summer Long was adapted and released as the Steven Spielberg film AI in 2001. To give your opinion of Getting Rid of Matthew, go to www.oxfordmail.co.uk/ whatson/book/bookclub And remember, next month, there's a whole new book on offer.

4:25pm Thursday 13th March 2008

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