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.

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Lian Hingee is reading Childless by Sian Prior

I just finished reading Sian Prior’s intensely personal memoir Childless. I’ve had this book on my shelf for a while, but I had my own traumatic experience with infertility, the fertility industry, and being childless (as distinct to being child free), so I knew I had to be in the right head space to tackle it. I’m glad I waited, because Childless is a deeply raw and potent book.

Dreamy and lyrical with a non-chronological timeline, Childless is as much a story about the natural world as it is an examination of love and loss: Prior’s thwarted desire for a child is in direct conflict with her well-founded fears about the climate emergency. It’s unflinching. Prior pulls no punches – not even against herself – revealing selfish choices, missed opportunities, broken hearts, and dark fantasies. Apart from everything else, I found it incredibly cathartic how she lays bare the terrible grief and rage and envy and longing I myself felt – and sometimes still feel. I recommend this for anyone who’s experienced infertility, or anyone who knows someone who has experienced infertility – which, I have to tell you, is everyone.

Chris Gordon is reading Infidelity and Other Affairs by Kate Legge

I was completely entranced reading Kate Legge’s Infidelity and Other Affairs. This collection of essays, memories and realisations questions a stoic placement of emotion, but rather celebrates vulnerability, acknowledges facts and patterns through family generations. It is clever, insightful and honest.

The first half of the book centres on her partner's numerous affairs. She is angry, dismayed by her position and anxious of the future. There is nothing turgent in Kate’s portrayal of hurt, but rather a self-effacing warmth and acceptance. The second half deals with life after the cross roads. It is a collection of essays that talk of her life now, how she lives and loves with family and friends. Throughout both sections of the book she examines her and her partner’s family to find links; to examine connections to dubious behaviour. It is eye opening.

I’m not sure exactly what I expected reading this book, except excellent writing. Kate is after all an experienced communicator. However, it is her humility and grace though that shines through these words. I did not expect the vulnerable and kind writing. The work celebrates self and friendships. It acknowledges the passing of time. It rejoices in family, despite the mess, the pain and the shame. Quite simply this is an extraordinary read.

Lucie Dess is reading Thieves by Lucie Bryon

I was browsing the graphic novel section of our Kids shop when a very cute cover caught my eye. As I picked it up, I saw the author’s name and knew I needed to read it; it’s rare to find a Lucie that spells their name with and ie. And I can happily tell you, my fellow Lucie did not disappoint.

Thieves is a super cute sapphic story about two teens who fall in love while righting their wrongs. It’s a story of anxiety, first love, family pressure and friendship. I promise you will love it.