With the clocks gone back and the evenings drawing in, book lovers have plenty of reasons to stay indoors this November, reports BritPanorama. New releases by authors such as Jonathan Coe and Bob Mortimer offer diverse literary experiences, while Mary Beth Keane’s sweeping family epic, Whale Harbour, adds to the compelling selection of nonfiction and fiction alike.
Michael by Bob Mortimer
In this novel, the protagonist gains a second chance at life from a mysterious voice, revisiting his childhood marked by his father’s death. Mortimer’s signature surreal humour pervades this engaging narrative.
Gallery, £22
Whale Harbour by Mary Beth Keane
Set in a remote fishing village in 1960s Ireland, this novel explores the lives of eleven brothers navigating the sudden loss of their mother. Keane crafts an intricate family epic that resonates with readers during the long autumn nights.
Phoenix, £20
The Hill by Harriet Clark
This coming-of-age novel, inspired by the author’s own life, follows Suzanna as she visits her mother in prison after a bank robbery. Its tragicomic elements make it a captivating read.
Sceptre, £16.99
Lessons in Harmony by Jonathan Coe
Coe’s fifteenth novel delves into the real-life friendship between composers Maurice Ravel and Ralph Vaughan Williams, weaving a narrative that reflects on national identity and the influence of music during the Second World War.
Viking, £20
Hope House by Joe Bond
Drawing from the author’s childhood experiences in rural Kentucky, this debut novel is set in the 1980s and tells the stories of young men living in a group home. It resonates particularly with fans of Demon Copperhead.
Fig Tree, £16.99
This is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman
Goodman’s eighth novel centers on a multigenerational family dealing with loss. Despite her popularity among notable figures, she remains lesser-known among British readers.
Swift Press, £16.99
Lords of Serendipity by Randy Boyagoda
This novel tells the story of Devi, who aspires to attend Harvard, and Katrina, an American facing her own challenges. The book critically examines academic pressures and parenting styles with humour.
Abacus, £20
Solace in Winter by Mary Lawson
Set in a Canadian village during the winter of 1969, this story follows Jack, whose tranquil life is disrupted by two accidents, leading him to care for both an injured dog and a draft-dodging young man.
Chatto & Windus, £18.99
Hollow Bones by Jodi Picoult
In this novel, Molly reflects on her life shaped by loss after the tragic events of 9/11. It offers insights into the struggles of bereavement.
Michael Joseph, £22
A History of Britain in 21 Paintings by Alice Loxton
Loxton’s book employs famous artworks to narrate Britain’s history, from St Augustine’s arrival in 597 AD to 20th-century depictions of working-class life.
Viking, £25
Alone with a Book by Tessa Hadley
In this nonfiction work, Hadley reflects on her journey through literature and the influence reading has had on her life, creating a poignant tribute to the power of books.
Jonathan Cape, £22
Big Math by Steven Strogatz and Alex Townsend
Strogatz and Townsend explore the pervasive influence of mathematics in daily life, discussing its implications for our future in a manner accessible to all readers.
John Murray, £25
Grief Talking by Greg Wise
Wise’s book addresses personal loss and bereavement, drawing on his experiences to offer comfort and practical advice to those coping with grief.
Bluebird, £18.99
Pay Attention by Laura Kuenssberg
The former BBC Political Editor examines the chaotic landscape of British politics over the last few decades, exploring the implications of significant events such as Brexit.
Corsair, £22
