As the nights draw in, curling up with a good book appears particularly appealing this November, which is marked by the release of significant titles from bestselling authors, reports BritPanorama. This month features a notable selection in the non-fiction genre, with celebrated figures such as Margaret Atwood, Patti Smith, Sir Gareth Southgate, Sir Anthony Hopkins, and Sir Paul McCartney all releasing works that delve into their pasts for literary inspiration.
In fiction, Sir Salman Rushdie’s new collection of five interlinked stories is anticipated to be a popular choice as Christmas approaches. His work includes thematic explorations of mortality and legacy, alongside John Irving’s return to the familiar setting of St Cloud’s orphanage, originally featured in his acclaimed 1985 novel The Cider House Rules. Just as notable are contributions from authors like Derek Owusu, Karl Ove Knausgaard, and Naomi Alderman, ensuring a diverse array of reading options this November.
Book of lives by Margaret Atwood
This extensive autobiography encapsulates Atwood’s childhood, ascent to literary prominence, and her engagement in political activism. It is characterised by her characteristic dry wit and meticulous detail.
Chatto & Windus, £30
The eleventh hour by Salman Rushdie
Spanning India, England, and America, this collection features five interlinked narratives that examine themes of loss, legacy, and the inevitability of death, from quarrelsome elders to undead professors, creating a profound meditation on mortality.
Jonathan Cape, £18.99
We did ok, kid by Anthony Hopkins
In this surprisingly articulate account, the 87-year-old actor recounts his life story, from a challenging upbringing in South Wales to an illustrious career, addressing topics such as addiction and artistry.
Simon & Schuster, £25
The school of night by Karl Ove Knausgaard
This provocative narrative follows a photography student drawn into a complicated relationship with an older artist in London during the 1980s, exploring the consequences of artistic ambition.
Harvill, £25
Dear England by Gareth Southgate
Part memoir and part leadership manual, Southgate’s account of his time managing the England football team provides insights into decision-making under pressure and the ethical responsibilities of leadership.
Century, £25
Don’t burn anyone at the stake today by Naomi Alderman
Alderman’s foray into non-fiction offers a critical examination of the modern information crisis, drawing parallels with historical events and challenging readers to reflect on contemporary thought.
Fig Tree, £16.99
Wings by Paul McCartney
Built from extensive interviews, this account of McCartney’s post-Beatles band explores themes of reinvention and resilience, accompanied by previously unseen photography.
Allen Lane, £35
In love with love by Ella Risbridger
Risbridger argues for the essential nature of love stories in literature, addressing snobbery and celebrating romantic fiction from Austen to modern works.
Sceptre, £16.99
One Aladdin two lamps by Jeanette Winterson
This work intertwines fiction, memoir, and philosophy, using stories from One Thousand and One Nights to highlight the significance of storytelling itself.
Jonathan Cape, £18.99
Borderline fiction by Derek Owusu
Told through dual narratives, this novel provides a raw exploration of identity and trauma through the eyes of Marcus, a young black man navigating life in Britain.
Canongate, £18.99
Muslim Europe by Tharik Hussain
This counter-history positions Islam at the centre of European cultural heritage, incorporating historical figures and events to underscore the Muslim community’s impact on Europe’s narrative.
Viking, £25
Queen Esther by John Irving
Returning to St Cloud’s orphanage, Irving follows Esther, a Jewish girl exploring themes of survival and identity in 20th-century America, reflecting the sweeping style of The Cider House Rules.
Scribner, £22
Bread of angels by Patti Smith
In her most intimate memoir thus far, Smith vividly recounts her post-war childhood and creative awakening, drawing on her experiences to explore loss and resilience.
Bloomsbury, £25
The silver book by Olivia Laing
This noir-influenced novel examines queer desire and creativity against the backdrop of the 1970s art world, reflecting on real events and the complexities of that era.
Hamish Hamilton, £20
