Curated reads – Top Recommendations

Whether it’s a thriller, a thought-provoking romance, or a non-fiction read you’re after, there’ll be something here for anyone!

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Despite being better known for Gone Girl, it’s my opinion that Sharp Objects is Flynn’s best novel by a country mile. It’s dark and visceral, and one of the only books to ever make my skin crawl. Troubled reporter Camille returns to her hometown in humid Midwest America to investigate the disappearances of two young girls. Full of self-destructive, violent women – from Camille’s hypochondriac mother to her promiscuous half-sister – it’s deliciously disturbing. The sticky heat of small-town Missouri emanates from the pages, making it the perfect thriller to devour this December.

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

Best known for her role as Sam in iCarly and Sam and Cat on Nickelodeon, McCurdy’s autobiography is a fascinating insight into the world of child acting and fame, underpinned by her domineering mother. It’s excellently written, heartbreaking, and hilarious, spanning her life from her first acting role at the age of six, to her decision to leave acting. McCurdy details how her mother’s obsession with her fame and success led to anxiety and self-loathing, which manifested in addiction and eating disorders. What makes this book stand out is its narrative style – it’s written as if it were penned from the age McCurdy was during the events. The audiobook (read by McCurdy herself) feels like listening to eight-year-old Jennette recounting her auditions. While it’s a great read for those that grew up watching Nickelodeon, its unflinching commentary on the child acting industry makes it a compelling read for anyone.

The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

The premise of this book is, you guessed it, a centenarian who leaves his retirement home through a window, in order to avoid his 100th birthday party. As the story unfolds, escapee Allan gets embroiled in a cat and mouse (or rather hare and tortoise) chase involving a suitcase of money and a criminal gang. However, this is not even close to the most exciting event in Allan’s long life. The reader learns how this unassuming old man was one of the most influential characters of the 20th century, with ‘cameos’ from famous historical figures. It’s light-hearted and well-paced, and bizarre enough to keep you turning the pages.

Bad Luck and Trouble by Lee Child

This is the eleventh book in the Jack Reacher series, but can easily be read as a standalone. Reacher, an ex-military man, now spends his time wandering the States with nothing but the clothes on his back. After receiving a cryptic message from a member of his former Military Police unit, he, along with three other ex-members, investigate the disappearance of the rest of their former squad. This is one of the best Reacher novels, and the way Child writes action will have you eager to finish one page so you can get to the next.

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

I love the concept for this! Sally is a writer for a SNL-style late-night show, no longer looking for love. After her fellow (male) writer starts dating a gorgeous celebrity guest host, Sally pens a sketch underscoring how the reverse would never happen between a female comedian and a gorgeous male celeb. Enter Noah Brewster: a famous, attractive singer who guest hosts the show. What follows is a Notting Hill-esque romance, that cleverly subverts common romance tropes. The result is a beautifully human love story that transcends the average rom-com.

The Haunted Wood: A History of Childhood Reading by Sam Leith

This book delves into the history of children’s literature, detailing how well-loved stories have shaped entire generations. It explores how children’s books intersect aspects of theology, science, history, and the author’s own experiences to create the stories we read as children and carry on into adulthood. For people who don’t tend to read non-fiction, Leith’s passion for this topic is apparent, making it an engrossing read. It covers everything from Where the Wild Things Are to Alice in Wonderland to Harry Potter, yet the only criticism I’ve found of it is that it isn’t long enough!

Whether you’re craving a dark thriller or a whimsical adventure with an unconventional old man, I hope these curated picks prove that December doesn’t have to be all tinsel and baubles. Instead, it can be the perfect time to dive into something new. I think this is the perfect time to try a genre you don’t usually read. And who knows, you may discover a new favourite author or style of book.