A brace of new reviews in the Herald today. First up is Steve Jones’ Y: The Descent of Men, an intriguing if slightly alarming guide to the genetics of masculinity. Reviewer David Larsen seems to like it, barring the poor structure. He cautions, “Sorry, lads, but this book will not supply you with an excuse next time you leave the toilet seat up. For all that, it's an amusing read.”

Rosemary Wildblood’s debut novel, Joybird, also comes under the microscope. And it seems like a good buy. According to Geraldine Whiteford, “This novel is neither profound nor brilliant, but like a smooth glass of sauvignon blanc, it is pleasurable and almost serenely carries the reader along to an ending that is clever and rather startling. Despite subtle hints, the end caught me a little unawares. You may be more alert than me. Read it to find out.”

A little more highbrow is J M Coetzee’s latest effort, Elizabeth Costello. This is one of those books where the author plays tricks with the reader and established writing structures: “Coetzee imparts his thoughts on literature, the role of the writer, the nature of belief, and the existence of evil through the device of the main character, Elizabeth Costello.” Reviewer Pat Baskett is relatively taken by the book: “Coetzee is hardly a funny writer, but here he makes fun of writing and the rules of realism. It's a heartening beginning to a challenging read.”