6 of the best books

The ex-Blue Peter presenter, author of Cookie! And The Most Annoying Boy In The World, is backing The Reading Agency’s Winter Challenge. readingagency.org.uk Hangover Square by Patrick Hamilton I read this in my 20s. It captures the dynamics between the characters in a brilliantly observed way. It’s set in Earl’s Court in the late 30s and although it’s quite dark, it’s captivating.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee An important classic for young people to read and a real eye-opener. It shows the racism that prevailed in middle America of the 30s. It’s the first book I read that made me think about situations from other people’s perspective.

The Road by Cormac McCarthy Although nothing much happens, the jeopardy is so intense, the book is totally gripping. A father and son try to stay alive in a post-apocalyptic world.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

I read this just before going to university – apt as it’s set on a uni campus where five students of Ancient Greek seal themselves off from their peers and become akin to a cult. Truly unique and a total page turner.

Microserfs by Douglas Coupland

I read this book in my late teens when the internet bubble was just beginning to happen. It is about workers in the tech industry in Silicon Valley and it made me want to work in that environment.

Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

A story of love, friendship and mental health set in Japan from the 70s onwards. It’s a gentle but complex story.