Grace Gooda is reading The Singapore Grip by J.G Farrell

The humour J.G Farrell uses to ridicule colonialism and the arrogance of British Imperialism is unlike anything I’ve ever read.

I love the strong personalities which make up this book – each character is a bit of an icon in their own way. The thoughts and conversations between characters intertwine perfectly to paint an image of what 1940s Singapore was to multiple demographics, and how the motivations of different nations all met in this beautiful part of the world. We go from highbrow discussions regarding the nuance of the rubber trade, to how silly it feels to accept a drink when your host isn’t even drinking. One of my favourite works of historical fiction, and strangely a brilliant portrayal of human error.

Iris from our Teen Advisory Board is reading Malice by Heather Walter

Malice by Heather Walter is an incredible sapphic dark retelling of Sleeping Beauty.

The story is set in a kingdom where theres a group of women called ‘graces’ who make magic potions (all the excellent witchy stuff). Our protagonist Alyce is known as the Dark Grace because her magic is seen as ‘evil’ and ‘wicked’ by the other graces of the kingdom. Alyce, who is subsequently ostracised by the other graces, meets the princess, Aurora, a bright, wise and kind girl who –- unfortunately –- is destined to die within a year. The book is about the unexpected relationship between the two.

Lucie Dess is listening to Harry’s House by Harry Styles

You may not have heard of this largely unknown indie artist… but Harry Styles has released a new album called Harry’s House.

I had been anxiously awaiting the arrival of Harry’s House on vinyl and harassing the poor people who work in our warehouse every day to see if it had arrived. Each day I would get the response ‘Harry’s not here yet’. But finally, I have it in my hands (there were squeals), so it’s time to tell you all about it.

From the first track, ‘Music For a Sushi Restaurant’, you just know this album is going to be a bop. But in true Harry fashion, there are also plenty of songs that will leave you lying on the floor, reaching for the tissues. ‘Matilda’ definitely had me in this position. But it is the songs that are disguised as a happy tune that will hit you the hardest like ‘As It Was’.

The album is everything I wanted and more and it truly is a must listen.