Roz’s Recent Reads
Blog · Posted September 20, 2023
Here’s what Roz has been reading recently…
Roz gets through a lot of books and is one of the best people to turn to when you need a recommendation. In her recent reads she has tackled a bit of new fiction, hard hitting non-fiction and some magical new children’s books. Read her quick pitches for her choices below to see if she can persuade you to give any of them a go.
Lioness by Emily Perkins
From a modest background, Therese enters a life of protected luxury when, in her early 20s, she marries a charismatic property magnate decades her senior. However, when rumours cast doubts on her husband’s property dealings, life begins to fracture. Therese is drawn to her fierce neighbour Claire, and through this friendship discovers a new sense of freedom. It turns out she does in fact hold opinions of her own… Packed with excellent, scathing take-downs and delicious feminist moments, it’s a treat of a read.
The List by Yomi Adegoke
Instagram golden couple, Ola and Michael, are to be married in a month. They wake one morning (separately) to see The List published online – exposing a list of male abusers, and Michael is named. What follows is a twisty turny, gripping examination of the fall out, told through a dual narration. Highly recommended.
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Four young women, best friends and sisters, live within an intensely close and loving family. Into this warmth comes William, brought up by grief stricken, silent parents. Things quickly unravel with the death of one father and the ending of a marriage. Gorgeously written, intense and affectionate.
Brother of the More Famous Jack Barbara Trapido
Anyone who hasn’t discovered the unmitigated joy that is Barbara Trapido’s writing, should start here. Beautifully written, funny, touching, coming of age story set in England and Italy. You will miss the characters (when you’ve raced through the book) and wish you were in their midst again.
Ultra-Processed People by Chris van Tulleken
Does for ultra processed food knowledge what Empire of Pain did for the opioid crisis. Fascinating, but unsettling.
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell (8-12 years)
This fantastical book marks the beginning of an epic new series for children. Philip Pullman meets JK Rowling and I’d only say that if I really meant it!
Tyger by SF Said (8-12 Years)
A richly imagined alternative London where society is divided into strict geographical areas. Out doing his chores one morning, Adam discovers a mysterious tyger hiding in a rubbish dump in urgent need of help.
