Winner of the Man Booker Prize

By the author of The Handmaid's Tale and Alias Grace

Laura Chase's older sister Iris, married at eighteen to a politically prominent industrialist but now poor and eighty-two, is living in Port Ticonderoga, a town dominated by their once-prosperous family before the First War. While coping with her unreliable body, Iris reflects on her far from exemplary life, in particular the events surrounding her sister's tragic death. Chief among these was the publication of The Blind Assassin, a novel which earned the dead Laura Chase not only notoriety but also a devoted cult following.
Sexually explicit for its time, The Blind Assassin describes a risky affair in the turbulent thirties between a wealthy young woman and a man on the run. During their secret meetings in rented rooms, the lovers concoct a pulp fantasy set on Planet Zycron. As the invented story twists through love and sacrifice and betrayal, so does the real one; while events in both move closer to war and catastrophe. By turns lyrical, outrageous, formidable, compelling and funny, this is a novel filled with deep humour and dark drama.

Author: Margaret Atwood
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 656
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group
Publication Date: 06 Aug 2009

Breasts and Eggs delves into the complexities of female relationships and identities in modern-day Japan, with a focus on the mother-daughter dynamic. Readers seeking a thought-provoking and feminist read will find Kawakami's English language debut to be stirring, particularly in how it challenges beauty norms and explores female bodies over time.

Daniel is a century old. Elisabeth, born in 1984, has her eye on the future. The United Kingdom is in pieces, divided by a historic once-in-a-generation summer.Love is won, love is lost. Hope is hand in hand with hopelessness. The seasons roll round, as ever . . .

Spring by Ali Smith could be a good read for those who appreciate multi-layered storytelling blended with historical and modern-day references. The book combines various elements such as love, time, art, politics with the idea of hope, which flows throughout the book. Smith's writing is poetic and thought-provoking, making the reader contemplate the current state of the world. The book could appeal to those seeking a unique and reflective reading experience.

The Namesake could be a good read for those interested in exploring the conflicts and experiences of cultural identity, immigration, and assimilation in America. Jhumpa Lahiri's descriptive writing skillfully weaves together Gogol's experiences of fitting in with his American peers while facing challenges from his Indian upbringing. It's a poignant and introspective coming-of-age story that will leave you feeling a sense of empathy towards those who are forced to straddle two worlds at once.

This book is a heart-wrenching exploration of the American justice system and its devastating consequences on a young black couple's relationship. It takes the reader on an emotional journey through the intimate struggles of the characters as they grapple with love, betrayal, and loyalty. The book's unique and powerful voice offers an unflinching perspective on a deeply important topic, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring issues of race, love, and justice in America.

This book would be a good read for someone who is struggling with finding their true identity and a sense of belonging. Jeanette Winterson's memoir is a raw and honest portrayal of her journey to overcome a painful past, find reconciliation with her adoptive mother and search for her biological mother. Her writing is both fierce and funny, showing how literature can provide a beacon of hope in times of struggle.

Mrs Dalloway is a classic novel that showcases the inner lives and thoughts of its characters in a unique stream-of-consciousness style. It provides insights into the complex social structure of the time through its portrayal of characters like Clarissa and her relationships. Woolf also highlights the effects of trauma and its stigma in post-World War I times through Septimus's story. Fans of literary fiction and thoughtful character studies will enjoy this book.

"I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" is a poignant and moving memoir that chronicles Maya Angelou's journey from abandonment to empowerment. Her lyrical prose allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in her story, and her resilience and strength in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to all who read it."

Swing Time is an excellent read for anyone interested in exploring the themes of race and class, as well as the complexities of friendship. Zadie Smith excels at capturing the nuances of human interactions and the impact of societal expectations on people's lives. The novel's unique feature is its exploration of the role of music in shaping identity and the intersectionality of race and class in the world of dance. The prose is rich and evocative, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the story and the characters. Overall, Swing Time is a must-read for anyone looking for an engaging and thought-provoking novel.

Fifteen-year-old Kambili and her older brother Jaja lead a privileged life in Enugu, Nigeria. They live in a beautiful house, with a caring family, and attend an exclusive missionary school. They're completely shielded from the troubles of the world. Yet, as Kambili reveals in her tender-voiced account, things are less perfect than they appear. Although her Papa is generous and well respected, he is fanatically religious and tyrannical at home—a home that is silent and suffocating.As the country begins to fall apart under a military coup, Kambili and Jaja are sent to their aunt, a university professor outside the city, where they discover a life beyond the confines of their father’s authority. Books cram the shelves, curry and nutmeg permeate the air, and their cousins’ laughter rings throughout the house. When they return home, tensions within the family escalate, and Kambili must find the strength to keep her loved ones together.Purple Hibiscus is an exquisite novel about the emotional turmoil of adolescence, the powerful bonds of family, and the bright promise of freedom.

alternate cover for this ISBN can be found hereMore than fifteen years after the events of The Handmaid’s Tale, the theocratic regime of the Republic of Gilead maintains its grip on power, but there are signs it is beginning to rot from within. At this crucial moment, the lives of three radically different women converge, with potentially explosive results.Two have grown up as part of the first generation to come of age in the new order. The testimonies of these two young women are joined by a third voice: a woman who wields power through the ruthless accumulation and deployment of secrets.As Atwood unfolds The Testaments, she opens up the innermost workings of Gilead as each woman is forced to come to terms with who she is, and how far she will go for what she believes.‘Dear Readers: Everything you’ve ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we’ve been living in.'--Margaret Atwood

Once upon a time fairy tales weren't meant just for children, and neither is Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales. This collection contains lyrical tales, bloody tales and hilariously funny and ripely bawdy stories from countries all around the world - from the Arctic to Asia - and no dippy princesses or soppy fairies. Instead, we have pretty maids and old crones; crafty women and bad girls; enchantresses and midwives; rascal aunts and odd sisters.

Mules and Men is a must-read for those interested in black American folklore and cultural heritage. Zora Neale Hurston provides an intimate portrayal of life for African Americans in the South through tales, songs, customs, and superstitions. Her humorous and wise storytelling is sure to capture the reader's imagination and leave a lasting impression.

The Frangipani Tree Mystery offers a unique blend of historical fiction and crime, transporting readers to a fascinating time and place with its vivid descriptions of 1930s Singapore. Featuring an intelligent and resourceful local heroine in Chen Su Lin, the book offers an intriguing puzzle plot and a glimpse into a different culture and time. Fans of historical fiction and cozy mysteries will enjoy this charming debut novel.

"Saving Fish from Drowning" would be a great read for someone who enjoys a blend of adventure and moral responsibility. The story takes you on a journey through the twists of fate, curses, and human error as the characters find themselves deep in the Burma jungle, encountering a tribe that is waiting for the return of their leader and mythical book of wisdom. It is filled with idiosyncratic, sympathetic characters, haunting images, and historical complexity, making it a truly captivating read that will have you reflecting on the shared responsibility individuals have for the actions of others.

Carol Ann Duffy's "Selected Poems" is a great choice for someone looking for a diverse collection of poetry. Her writing is accessible and easily relatable, making it a good option for both poetry lovers and beginners. The collection includes some of her most famous works, including "The World's Wife", which reimagines the stories of famous women throughout history. Overall, this book is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the world of poetry in an approachable way.

The Book of Other People is just that: a book of other people. Open its covers and you'll make a whole host of new acquaintances. Nick Hornby and Posy Simmonds present the ever-diverging writing life of Jamie Johnson; Hari Kunzru twitches open his net curtains to reveal the irrepressible Magda Mandela (at 4:30a.m., in her lime-green thong); Jonathan Safran Foer's Grandmother offers cookies to sweeten the tale of her heart scan; and Dave Eggers, George Saunders, David Mitchell, Colm Toibin, A.M. Homes, Chris Ware and many more each have someone to introduce to you, too.

With an introduction by Zadie Smith and brand-new stories from over twenty of the best writers of their generation from both sides of the Atlantic, The Book of Other People is as dazzling and inventive as its authors, and as vivid and wide-ranging as its characters.

Author: Zadie Smith
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 304
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Publication Date: 28 Aug 2008

This book could be a good read for drama students who want to explore the realm of myth and fantasy in a modern context. The plays are rooted in reality, but offer imaginative twists that will keep readers engaged. Verena Tay's work is award-winning and has been specifically selected for its educational value, making it a perfect fit for teachers and students alike.

Little Women is one of the best loved books of all time. Lovely Meg, talented Jo, frail Beth, spoiled these are hard lessons of poverty and of growing up in New England during the Civil War. Through their dreams, plays, pranks, letters, illnesses, and courtships, women of all ages have become a part of this remarkable family and have felt the deep sadness when Meg leaves the circle of sisters to be married at the end of Part I. Part II, chronicles Meg's joys and mishaps as a young wife and mother, Jo's struggle to become a writer, Beth's tragedy, and Amy's artistic pursuits and unexpected romance. Based on Louise May Alcott's childhood, this lively portrait of nineteenth-century family life possesses a lasting vitality that has endeared it to generations of readers.From the Paperback edition.

"Women of Algiers in Their Apartment" is an impactful read for those interested in exploring the lived experiences of oppressed women, particularly those in postcolonial societies. Assia Djebar's writing style is both innovative and lyrical as it illuminates the struggles faced by Algerian women - from being cloistered to grappling with the implications of reticence, the connection of language to oppression and the impact of war on both women and men. This book's strength lies in its unapologetic portrayal of the plight of urban Algerian women as they navigate a postcolonial society that has denied and subjugated them even as it celebrates the liberation of men. Highly recommended for those interested in women's stories of struggle and victory.

"Jane Eyre" is a classic love story that is both timeless and gripping. Charlotte Bronte's vivid depiction of life in 19th-century England brings to light the harsh realities faced by women during this time. The book's most distinctive feature is the protagonist, Jane Eyre, who despite her plain appearance, possesses an indomitable spirit, sharp wit, and great courage. This is a great read for anyone looking for a classic, romantic novel with a strong female lead.