It's been a while since we last wrote you a book recommendation list, since the introduction of our Staff Picks area in the shop. Our staff have been choosing books to recommend our visitors for the last few months, and we're loving sharing the books that we've enjoyed with all of you.
But! A long weekend means lots of time to delve into a new book or an old favourite. So, with that in mind, we've put together a big list of recommendations - some taken from our Staff Picks in store - that we think will make the perfect reads this Easter weekend.
'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' by Jeff Kinney
This series is an absolute favourite in young readers. It's witty, entertaining and filled with endearing doodles. We have a few of the titles in stock, get in touch with our team to find out more.
'Kid Normal' by Greg James, Chris Smith
Kid Normal is a series (currently at three books) written by Radio One's Chris Smith and Greg James. Very much like Diary of a Wimpy Kid in it's humour and easy reading.
'Alice in Wonderland' by Lewis Carroll
Recommended by Diane, Shop & Darwin Bookseller:
"A huge classic full of wonder and imagination, and my absolute favourite book as a child. It explodes with charm, fantasy, and the unexpected, and laced with witty poems, puzzles and hilarious satire, it's even more of a delight to read as an adult!"
'Matilda' by Roald Dahl
Another Children's classic just like the last, and a reminder to your little ones that being a book lover is pretty cool, after all.
'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Translated into a massive 300 different languages and dialects, The Little Prince is one of those Children's books that just must be read. Brilliant, heart-warming and full of imagination.
'How to Train Your Dragon' series by Cressida Cowell
If you've ever desperately wanted a dragon of your own, this series is for you. These stories are so filled with life and laughter, and are just as fun to read as an adult as they are for kids.
'Harry Potter' series by J K Rowling
The Harry Potter books are always a must on our recommendation lists.
'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' by Stephen Chbosky
Recommended by Emma, Shop & Darwin Bookseller:
"Having recently reread this one, I had to choose it as one of my staff picks. It is insightful, heart wrenching and intelligent, and I never fail to shed a few tears whilst reading. Charlie (the protagonist) is such a special character to me."
'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeleine L'Engle
Another classic of Children's literature which does wonders for the imagination.
'Inkheart' Trilogy by Cornelia Funke
The ultimate story for book lovers. Fantastical, humorous and inspiring.
'Artemis Fowl' series by Eoin Colfer
Recommended by Lauren, Customer Care Team
'The Danish Girl' by David Ebershoff
Recommended by Emma, Shop and Darwin Bookseller
"A truly beautiful book. Both heart-warming and heart-wrenching. The story of self-discovery in its purest form."
'The Psychopath Test' by Jon Ronson
Recommended by Jana, H&S Officer and Darwin Bookseller
"Brilliant and so funny. A must read!"
'Heat and Dust' by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala
Recommended by David, BBI Director
"Set in India before air-conditioning! Reminded me of the Kenyan-based book White Mischief. Any lovers of colonial history and the preposterous-ness of its code of etiquette will enjoy this little cracker. A worthy Booker prize winner. I'm now going in search of the film adaptation."
'39 Steps' by John Buchan
Recommended by Nick, CEO
"A great (and short) classic - start here and then read everything by John Buchan."
'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson
Recommended by Rowen, Shop Bookseller
"If you like strong, multi-faceted female characters, this book is for you. It's one of those well known books where the hype is actually deserved."
'Anna Karenina' by Tolstoy
Recommended by Diane, Shop and Darwin Bookseller
"As Tolstoy himself hoped, you will definitely love life in all its' glory after reading this. Add this huge classic to your bookshelf now."
'I Am Malala' by Malala Yousafzai
Recommended by Emma, Shop and Darwin Bookseller
"Malala is a total inspiration to girls everywhere. Her story is a must-read."
