Books of the Week

In today's post, 4D recommend their favourite fiction books from this year’s reading.

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Recommended by Adavya Goyal

'One of the most intriguing science fiction books I have ever read. I strongly recommend it due to the action, thrills and its deep philosophical undertones.'

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
Recommended by Aditya Swamy

'A very entertaining prequel to the three Hunger Games books, with many twists and turns where the odds are so high it leaves the reader on the edge, wanting to read on.'

Prodigy by Marie Lu
Recommended by Aki Simonsen

'This book about a fugitive public figure fighting against the government is the second in a series but is my favourite because the world it is set in is so immersive.'

Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
Recommended by Allen Li

'I really like the book because it is very interesting and complex. It is set in a dystopian world with a deranged main character who thinks he is the last person on the world.'

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
Recommended by Alessandro Salford

'This very eye opening and interesting book describes the life of a teenage girl who wants to be a great rapper to fill the shoes of her dead father. Filled with drama and excitement, it also explores race and misogyny in a completely different culture.'

Decline and Fall by Evelyn Waugh
Recommended by Ara Goel

'I liked the subtle use of comedy between the lines and the unexpected twists, as well as the author's use of first person where he still manages to give a lot of detail about the other characters.'

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
Recommended by Arthur America

'The plot from beginning to end is extremely interesting; the action is very intriguing and keeps the reader excited.'

The Hitchhiker's Guide to The Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Recommended by Aryan Sankaye and Ishan Madhok

Ishan says, 'A great mix between comedy and adventure which also explores abstract concepts, which I have not seen in any other book.' Aryan adds, 'There are many interesting twists which provide the reader with lots to think about, keeping them constantly engaged.'

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Recommended by Charlie Pilcher

'A unique and fascinating perspective on Twentieth-Century Russia… incredibly funny, but with much darker themes which gradually surface throughout the novel.'

Killer T by Robert Muchamore
Recommended by Dev Patel

'This science fiction book encapsulates you into its apocalyptic world making it seem scarily close to reality. The unlikely relationships and huge plot twists keep the reader on alert for every page.'

1984 by George Orwell

Recommended by Harry Pallent and Oliver Whale

Harry says, 'A classic novel that is still relevant today – dystopia, censorship and control.' Oliver adds, 'It provokes thoughts in the reader relating to the modern day and the possibilities of a totalitarian government.'

It by Stephen King
Recommended by Jonah Tayler

'Brilliant book, if a little frightening. Cannot recommend enough, along with most other King novels.'

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Recommended by Josh Ferro

'Mind-provoking… thrilling! All ages, and preferences would love it.'

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Recommended by Kai Szerkowski

'I would recommend this book if you wanted to try something very different. It’s one of a kind – I really enjoyed it.'

The Complete Robot by Isaac Asimov

Recommended by Leonardo Bertolo

'A book made up of short stories that is a very good read: exciting, dramatic and ingeniously well-written.'

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Recommended by Maxence Lam

'A well-written novel that makes the reader contemplate their preconceptions of societal structure, and explores themes such as the use of technology to control society, individuality, and the incompatibility of happiness and truth.'

Wings of Fire: The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui Sutherland
Recommended by Nabil Jinadu

'A fun yet epic story. You can truly lose yourself in the world the author has built.'

Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve
Recommended by Veer Sekhon

'Set long into the future when cities have become mobile, this is an incredibly enjoyable read which creates an intriguing universe.'

We hope that this has given you some ideas for summer holiday reading: thanks to 4D for all their suggestions, and thanks also to Mr Dormandy for collating them.