Books How Phyllis Rose’s Parallel Lives exposed the fundamental problems with marriage First published in 1983, the remarkable study of five Victorian writers' relationships has been reprinted in a new edition by Daunt Books. By Francesca Wade
Girl: Edna O’Brien’s moving fictionalisation of the Nigerian schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram In Maryam, O’Brien has created a character both archetypal and individual: narrator of her own story and repository of… By Francesca Wade
Ali Smith’s Winter: her wise and joyful voice is the perfect antidote to troubled times While this novel is firmly rooted in reality, it glories in false identities, untrue facts and surreal contradictions. By Francesca Wade
Spill Simmer Falter Wither is a powerful meditation on humanity Sara Baume’s sympathy for her “wonkety” characters is infectious, and turns this portrait of an unusual friendship into something… By Francesca Wade