Each week we bring you a sample of the books we’re reading, the films we’re watching, the television shows we’re hooked on or the music we’re loving.

Megan Wood is reading Good Bones by Margaret Atwood

Good Bones is a fantastic collection of short narratives, speculative fiction, retellings and musings that are classic Margaret Atwood. 27 separate works fill this 153 page book, but each delivers a punch and takes you on its own journey. Whether you’re being greeted from the Planet of the Moths, learning how to build a man (think cloth, gingerbread or dust), or restarting the traditional fairytale beginning, Atwood’s sarcasm and dry wit make this an absolute gem to read.

Julia Jackson is reading The Great Romantic by Duncan Hamilton

Over the last few weeks I’ve been reading this in anticipation of the summer Test series (having spent most of the mid year awake in the wee hours watching the World Cup and Ashes). Ostensibly a biography of Neville Cardus, the granddaddy of cricket-writing, this book also celebrates the golden era, and the emergence of cricket-writing in general. Key players and commentators of the time are richly illuminated, through Cardus’ eyes: Hedley Verity, Clarrie Grimmett, the infamous Douglas Jardine and his henchmen Harold Larwood, The Don, and many more besides. Cardus saw the literary possibilities of cricket, conveying the depth and sense of high drama (yes, cricket can be very dramatic!).

If you’re a cricket lover, or have someone in your life who won’t shut up about cricket, this a top read. Perfect for summer! Pair with Arlott, Swanton and the Soul of English Cricket, by Kynaston and Fay, another great book on commentators John Arlott and Jim Swanton!

Bronte Coates is reading Raising Readers by Megan Daley

Over the last few weeks I’ve been dipping in and out of this handbook from teacher-librarian Megan Daley. Packed with up-to-date research, literary suggestions and practical tips, Daley gives plenty of advice about how to approach reading with children of all ages. She tackles different issues that may crop up over the years and also includes contributions from Australian children’s authors. This book is a great gift for book-loving parents, carers or educators who hope to share their passion with children. For a taster, you can even read an extract on the blog here.