Stephen Fry

Nordic Tales

This collection of 16 traditional tales transports readers to the enchanting world of Nordic folklore. Translated and transcribed by folklorists in the 19th century, and presented here unabridged, the stories are by turns magical, hilarious, cozy, and chilling. They offer a fascinating view into Nordic culture and a comforting wintertime read. Ulla Thynell's glowing contemporary illustrations accompany each tale, conjuring dragons, princesses, and the northern lights.

1. Charlotte Higgins

Greek Myths

Higgins is a wonderful scholar, and a great story teller. I've been loving these retellings, cleverly centered around the theme of myths told in tapestry.

1. Rachel , Shabi

Off-White

What is and isn't antisemitism? 'I cannot wait for Off-White to be read, debated and put into practice.' Naomi Klein, author of Doppelganger As claims of antisemitism continue to distort our politics at home and abroad, it has become almost impossible to talk about constructively, even in private. Instead, we find ourselves in a storm of misinformation, political mudslinging and bad-faith accusations. There is, however, a way to deliberate more honestly. Looking beyond our polarising headlines and interrogating the reasons racism takes hold, Off-White offers urgent analysis of one of the most divisive issues of our time. Taking in the contingency of whiteness, Judeo-Christian mythmaking, pro-Israel antisemitism, and the Palestinian struggle against colonialism, Rachel Shabi lights a hopeful way forward. *** 'Timely and valuable... [Shabi's] key message is a vital one - that the fight against antisemitism is an essential part of the fight against all injustice and dehumanisation.' Observer, Book of the Week 'A masterpiece defined by moral clarity, humanity and insight.' Owen Jones 'An invaluable guide for anyone who seeks to understand issues over which we stumble far too often.' George Monbiot 'With a generous spirit and a humane compass, Rachel Shabi guides us through a minefield.' Gary Younge

1. Claire Heywood

The Shadow of Perseus

The myth of Perseus, told through the story of the three women who knew him best - his mother Danae, his wife Andromeda, and his victim, Medusa.

1. William , MacAskill

What We Owe The Future

The challenges we face are enormous. But we can still secure a positive future for our planet, and for everyone on it. In What We Owe The Future, philosopher William MacAskill persuasively argues for longtermism, the idea that positively influencing the distant future is a moral priority of our time. It isn't enough to mitigate climate change or avert the next pandemic. We can ensure that civilization would rebound if it collapsed; cultivate value pluralism; and prepare for a planet where the most sophisticated beings are digital and not human. 'Unapologetically optimistic and bracingly realistic, this is the most inspiring book on 'ethical living' I've ever read.' Oliver Burkeman, Guardian 'A monumental event.' Rutger Bregman, author of Humankind 'A book of great daring, clarity, insight and imagination. To be simultaneously so realistic and so optimistic, and always so damn readable... well that is a miracle for which he should be greatly applauded.' Stephen Fry

1. Emma , Southon

Eine Geschichte des Römischen Reiches in 21 Frauen

Schluss mit Brüdermördern und Kriegsspektakel - Roms Geschichte ist größer! Emma Sou-thon erzählt von 21 Frauen, die das Reich prägten: von der Sexarbeiterin Hispala Faecenia, die eine Verschwörung aufdeckt, über die cleverste Geschäftsfrau Pompejis bis zu Septimia Zenobia, die nach inkompetenten Kaisern das einzig Logische tut: sich selbst zur Kaiserin erklären. Verbotene Liebe, Naturkatastrophen und Orgie inklusive - Rom, wie wir es noch nie gesehen haben.