20 books for spring we think you'll love

A little list of novels old and new: plus some non-fiction titles that may change your life, mindset, parenting style or opinion on a few things.

The debut

Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis
The story of an academic who, after a break-up and being disowned by her puritanical mother, accepts a UN job rehabilitating Isis brides in Iraq hardly sounds like the plot of what has been described as one of this year’s funniest novels. But then again not many authors are academics who’ve advised the Iraq government on deradicalisation and done a stand up comedy course as a side hustle, which gives you insight into the mind of author Nussaibah Younis. Described by the Guardian as ‘tackling radicalism and racism, faith and friendship, with dexterity, deep care and a large dose of laughter,’ I’m looking forward to getting stuck in. TH