7 DECEMBER 1985, Page 34

Eric Christiansen

The only new book I have read this year is one written before the war by Barbara Pym. It is just like the others. That is praise enough. I wish I could remember what it is called. I read another oldish book, reissued before this year, called The Aerodrome, by Rex Warner. It has been so highly praised for the last 40 years that it is difficult not to join in the chorus without feeling defi- cient in team spirit. Perhaps the author's ability to combine originality with dullness pleases everyone to some extent.