new year new books

With many of us setting resolutions for the new year, and sometimes falling short, Burkeman shifts the conversation away from ‘positive thinking’ and relentless optimism, and encourages a re-thinking of our attitudes towards failure and uncertainty. Both practical and funny, this book is perfect to read in January.

This thrilling account tells the true story of Joe Simpson and his climbing partner Simon in 1995 in the Peruvian Andes. After both leaving for the summit of Siula Grande in June 1995, only Simon returned with news that Joe was dead. One of the classics of mountaineering, it is perfect to start the year off.

Set in a small rural Norwegian community, this 1963 novella is a classic of Norwegian literature that can be read in one sitting. Following the story of the inexplicable disappearance of Siss’ new friend Unn, it is mysterious and captivating, with the frozen waterfall, known as the ice palace, at the heart of it all. Its backdrop of ice and snow makes it perfect to read in the frosty cold months of the year.

For readers that would prefer to read tales set in a hot and sunny climate while in the depth of winter this book is a great option. Set in Nigeria, it follows Ayoola, as she is enlisted to help her chaotic younger sister clean up the crime scenes after she starts murdering men. Full of thrills and dark humour it’s the perfect book to escape the midwinter chill.

Perfect for fans of science fiction and fantasy, this novel follows the character of Genly Ai, an envoy sent to the planet of Gethen in order to persuade their nations to join a confederation of planets, called the Ekumen. Set in a world where it is perpetual winter, and including a journey across a vast wasteland of ice, it is not only an exciting tale but also comments on themes of politics, gender and psychology. This novel is set in the fictional Hainish universe as part of the the Hainish Cycle, so for those that couldn’t put it down, there’s plenty more to read.