Each week we bring you a sample of the books we’re reading, the films and TV shows we’re watching, and the music we’re listening to.

Kim Gruschow is reading You & a Bike & a Road by Eleanor Davis

I absolutely loved this thoughtful illustrated travelogue. The book follows a big cycle journey that the author made through the southern states of the USA, from Tucson Arizona to Athens Georgia. The trip was tough, both physically and emotionally, and the experience is carefully documented with lots of beautiful natural detail and interesting encounters. Reading this book gave me such a strong urge to get on my bike and ride for weeks. It would make a really sweet gift for any friend who loves travel and/or cycling.

Bronte Coates is reading The Orchard Underground by Mat Larkin

The Orchard Underground is the debut children’s novel from Australian author, Mat Larkin. Part mystery tale and part thrilling adventure, it’s the story of two children and their search for a secret orchard – which in turn leads them to a magical, and probably highly dangerous, discovery… This is such a funny, lovely and optimistic book. The narrative is laden with suspect with lots of twists and turns, and the endearingly strange cast of characters are delightful. Highly recommended for readers 9 and up.

Chris Gordon is reading Alegria by Karen Liberman

Alegria is no ordinary cookbook. Rather, it is the most exquisitely presented cookbook you will ever own, complete with gold sheets and glossy photographs of exotic locations and children playing in the Australian bush. Author Karen Liberman has pulled tightly together all the strings of her family to create an ode to her international heritage and her Jewish roots. Ultimately, Alegria is the story of her family and of the food they eat. In this cookbook, we visit Morocco, Poland and Russia, and through the food, we delve into Israeli roots (yes, you will find Golden Chicken Soup and Challah!) as well as Australian. These family favourite recipes have been amassed from far flung places, and they illustrate a history of great resourcefulness, passion and pleasure. After all – the title of the book (Alegria) translates simply as joy.