Genre: Nonfiction
Ms Chan (Cubs Club) recommends Tokyo Noir by Jake Adelstein.
What is it about?
A gripping sequel to "Tokyo Vice," this darkly comic book delves into Jake Adelstein's world in 2008. No longer the sole gaijin crime reporter, Adelstein navigates a post-global economic crisis era, dealing with his own demons while facing the shady underbelly of Japanese organized crime. Through his new role in due-diligence work, he uncovers the unsettling intertwining of corporations and the yakuza, shedding light on hidden power struggles and corruption within Japan. Personal tragedies unfold unexpectedly, blurring the lines between the stories he pursues and the life he leads.
Why should you read it?
It is a fascinating dive into the underbelly of Japanese triads!
Genre: Nonfiction
Ms Lam (Assistant Librarian) recommends The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down by Haenim Sunim.
What is it about?
In this timely guide to mindfulness, Haemin Sunim, a Buddhist monk born in Korea and educated in the United States, offers advice on everything from handling setbacks to dealing with rest and relationships, in a beautiful book combining his teachings with calming full-colour illustrations. Haemin Sunim's simple messages - which he first wrote when he responded to requests for advice on social media - speak directly to the anxieties that have become part of modern life and remind us of the strength and joy that come from slowing down.
Why should you read it?
It is a beautifully written and soothing book with calming illustrations.
Genre: Memoir
Mrs Raj (Mathivanan) recommends Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom.
What is it about?
"Tuesdays with Morrie" is a poignant memoir by Mitch Albom, chronicling his transformative Tuesday meetings with his dying former professor, Morrie Schwartz. Through their heartfelt conversations, Morrie imparts invaluable lessons on love, happiness, and the meaning of life, leaving readers with a profound reminder to cherish every moment and live with purpose.
Why should you read it?
This book resonated with Mrs Raj on a very personal level. According to her, this book teaches some profound lessons on the meaning of life.
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Ms Umesh (ICT Department) recommends Apple and Rain by Sarah Crossnan.
What is it about?
This book is a heartfelt young adult novel about Apple, a thirteen-year-old girl who reunites with her estranged mother after years of separation. As she navigates the complexities of family and self-discovery, Apple finds solace in writing and reconnects with her long-lost sister, Rain, discovering the power of love and resilience along the way.
Why should you read it?
Ms Umesh recommends this book to anyone looking for a light read.
Genre: Autobiography
Mrs Chan recommends I am Malala (Chinese edition) by Malala Yousafzai.
What is it about?
I Am Malala is the story of a young Pakistani girl who stood up for her right to an education in the face of grave danger. Malala refused to be silenced by Taliban rule, yet their brutal tactics seriously threatened her life. She miraculously survived and stands today to tell her story.
Why should you read it?
Malala fought for education for girls in Pakistan. Mrs Chan says she is an incredible role model for all of us.
Genre: Literary Fiction
Mr Sallabank recommends Generation X by Douglas Coupland.
What is it about?
This is a classic novel about about the generation born from 1960 to 1978, told through the dreams of three characters in their 20s who have left undesirable jobs and cut themselves adrift in the Californian desert.
Why should you read it?
Mr Sallabank thinks A-level pupils will enjoy delving into the world of Gen-X young adults, who might have more in common with them than they might think.
Genre: Autobiography
Mr Raj (ICT department) recommends Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah.
What is it about?
The daughter of a wealthy Hong Kong businessman describes her very difficult childhood and the psychological abuse she suffered at the hands of her stepmother.
Why should you read it?
According to Mr Raj, the book is emotionally difficult to read, but it will increase your vocabulary.
Genre: Mystery
Ms Hopkins recommends Jolly Foul Play, by Robin Stevens. It is the fourth book in the famous "A Murder Most Unladylike" series.
What is it about?
It's a brand-new term and everything has changed. School bully Elizabeth Hurst has become Head Girl and, along with her gang of prefects (the 'Big Girls'), is ruling the school. Even Daisy and Hazel aren't getting along, but after Elizabeth is found murdered at the school Bonfire Night celebrations, they are forced to put their differences aside to try and solve the murder. With so many potential enemies to consider, could this be their trickiest crime yet?
Why should you read it?
Ms Hopkins knows it's a good book, because her Year 7s won't stop talking about it!
Genre: Fantasy
Ms Eastaff recommends Wolf Brother, by Michelle Paver. It is the first book in the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series.
What is it about?
Six thousand years ago. Evil stalks the land. Only twelve-year-old Torak and his wolf-cub companion can defeat it. Their journey together takes them through deep forests, across giant glaciers, and into dangers they never imagined.
Why should you read it?
According to Ms Eastaff, Wolf Brother is "an exciting adventure that will take you back in time and all across the world!"
Genre: Fantasy
Mr Tuck borrowed his favourite childbook book to read with his daughter: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis. It is the first book in the Chronicles of Narnia series.
What is it about?
When the Pevensie children - Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy - step through a wardrobe door in the strange country house where they are staying, they find themselves in the land of Narnia. Frozen in eternal winter, Narnia is a land of snow and pine forests, and its creatures are enslaved by the terrible White Witch.
Tempted by the promise of endless Turkish Delight, Edmund becomes the White Witch's servant - and its up to his brother and sisters to release him from his enchantment and to rid Narnia of the witch. But just when it seems that all hope is lost, the Great Lion Aslan returns to help the children to save Narnia.
Why should you read it?