THE ARTS&LIFESTYLE TEAM PICK THEIR TOP FIVE OF THE YEAR

The Tattooist of Auschwitz Heather Morris Zaffre

Based on the real life story of Lale Sokolov, a Jewish prisoner tasked with tattooing every Auschwitz inmate with their identity number, this is a tale that showcases the best and absolute worst of humanity. When Sokolov tattoos the arm of a young and terrified Gita, it is love at first sight, and so follows a renewed fight for survival, giving him light in the darkest of places.

Sophie Prideaux

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine Gail Honeyman Penguin Random House

The story of Eleanor Oliphant can feel overwhelmingly sad at first, but despite the fact that she has no friends, is socially awkward and harbours a heartbreaking secret, she is fine – even if everyone else doesn’t think so. The endearing unconventional heroine’s tale is an emotional roller coaster, and I liked the fact that Honeyman didn’t give it a convenient happy ending.

Aarti Jhurani

Lullaby Leila Slimani Faber & Faber

Lullaby, published in English earlier this year, tells the story of parents’ worst nightmare: murder at the hands of their kids’ caregiver. Inspired by a true story, the author sets this moment of horror against the interlocking web of the guilts and pleasures of the employing parent. The fact the parents are Moroccan-born and the nanny French, adds a layer of postcolonial tension.

Melissa Gronlund

Berlin 1936: Sixteen Days In August Oliver Hilmes Vintage

The 1936 Olympic Games was perhaps the first time in the modern era that a repressive political regime used a major global sporting event as a propaganda tool to give itself validity. Oliver Hilmes chooses not to focus on the wider political context, offering instead an OK! magazine-style look at the activities of celebrities of the era over those 16 days in August.

Chris Newbould

How to Break Up With Your Phone Catherine Price Trapeze

In today’s social media age, our smartphones have taken over our lives. We’re all hooked on them – snapping and sharing photos, and checking likes. This book provides a 30-day plan to help you get away from “checking in” when there’s no need for it. I would argue that this is the most important read of the year and a break-up is very much recommended.

Samia Badih