The SN team share their favourite books of 2021, from gripping adult fiction to compelling YA sci-fi and fantasy, perfect for those quiet days between Christmas and New Year with a roaring fire and the last of the mince pies. (Don’t mind if we do!)

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The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (Adult)

“I loved this book because Matt Haig has a way of showing you the wonder and magic in the life you are living. It gave me all the feels.”

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The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna (Teen)

“The first of a West-African inspired fantasy series about a group of outcasts-turned-warriors with gold running through their veins. My daughter loved the perfect mix of YA fantasy and very real coming-of-age themes.”

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The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah (Adult)

“After devouring The Nightingale and The Great Alone, I knew I’d love Hannah’s latest book! A gorgeously written story about love and survival in 1930s Texas during the horrors of the Great Depression. ”

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Fantastically Great Women Scientists and Their Stories by Kate Pankhurst  (Girls under 10)

“My girls have loved this beautifully illustrated series for years, and her latest book is no exception! A wonderful introduction to some fantastic female scientists that will work wonders in inspiring young girls to reach for the stars in previously male-dominated fields.”

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Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell (Adult)

“I loved this beautifully written, fictional story about the life and death of Shakespeare’s son, Hamnet. It’s a must read and justifiably a Sunday Times bestseller!”

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The Choice by Edith Eger (Adult)

“Truly inspirational story about a promising ballerina sent to Auschwitz at age 16 and made to dance for Nazi leaders. An insight to a period of history that isn’t always easy to read about but which is so relevant to our freedom today.”

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The Land of Roar series by Jenny McLachlan  (Boys under 10)

“My son absolutely loved the series as it combines all the elements that make a classic childrens story: fantasy, adventure, a world of dragons, magic and super scary villains!”

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If In Doubt Wash Your Hair by Anya Hindmarch (Adult)

“Inspired insight into how mother of five, Anya Hindmarch, manages her business and personal life, including lessons she’s learnt, how she deals with doubt and advice on how to live better.”

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They Both Die in the End by Adam Silvera (Teen)

“After it went viral on TikTok, my daughter bought this unique sci-fi bestseller and instantly fell in love with the two main characters – two boys who get a call to say they only have one more day left to live.”

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The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre  (Non-fiction)

“A brilliant, true story of a KGB double agent set in the middle of the Cold War. Gives a great insight into the bravery and selflessness of people risking all for what they believe in.”

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Like what you see? This article appears in our new ’21 Winter Noticed magazine! Download it now to discover even more dazzling content, including features on Sam Cameron, Tom Fletcher, Chef Ben from Below Deck, Willow Crossley, Ottenlenghi and many, many more…