Kara Mason’s Desert Island Books
Name: Kara Mason
Job role: Chief Finance, Estates and Planning Officer
About: As Chief Finance Officer, I am responsible for the financial stewardship of the Trust, ensuring public resources are used effectively to deliver high-quality patient care and achieve long-term sustainability. I provide strategic leadership across finance, procurement, estates, capital and sustainability, supporting the Board to make informed decisions that improve services for patients and communities.
Book 1: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
I like reading this at Christmas each year!
It’s a snowy winter in London where we meet Ebenezer Scrooge, an old man who has become bitter with life, he is known for being cold and selfish. Scrooge profits off his impoverished community, financially benefitting off their labour whilst paying measly wages to his employees. Scrooge is considered one of the greatest redemption stories of all time. A magical story full of unforgettable moments, larger than life characters, a cautionary tale and a tale full of hope.
Book 2: A Lord Peter Whimsey book by Dorothy L Sayers
I am working my way through the collection – so whichever one comes next when I get stranded. Good old fashioned detective book.
Whose Body? is the first mystery featuring Lord Peter Wimsey, one of the most beloved detectives of the Golden Age of crime fiction. Witty, elegant, and sharply observed, this classic novel introduces a sleuth whose aristocratic charm hides a keen mind, a restless conscience, and a remarkable gift for detection.
When a mysterious corpse is discovered in a London bathtub, wearing nothing but a pair of pince-nez, the case seems bizarre from the start.Â
Book 3: The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
A true story about rags to riches entrepreneurialism in early 1900’s America.
New-money heiress Marjorie Post isn’t content to remain a society bride as she remakes herself into a savvy entrepreneur, a visionary philanthropist, a presidential hostess, and much more.
Book 4: The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins
Apparently widely regarded as the first modern detective novel. A mystery set around a missing diamond.
Book 5: Lady in Waiting by Anne Glenconner
Interesting and shocking memoir!
A Maid of Honour at the Queen’s Coronation and former Lady in Waiting to Princess Margaret, Anne Glenconner has spent her life as a friend of the royal family. In this bestselling memoir, she looks back on an extraordinary life full of glamour, drama and tragedy.
Book 6: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
On my list to read again since reading it as a teenager.
A classic novel originally published in 1868. It tells the story of four sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March, and their coming of age during the American Civil War. With the help of their beloved mother and their beloved neighbor, Mr. Laurence, the girls learn valuable lessons about love, family, and the importance of giving back to the community. Along the way, they learn the importance of resilience and self-determination, as they face various hardships and struggles. This timeless classic is an inspiring and heart-warming story about the power of family, friendship and the importance of chasing your dreams.
Luxury item
My pillow.