5 great books to gift to friends

“I’ll be gifting this to any friends who haven’t already picked up a copy of the former First Lady’s memoir. As it turns out, Mrs Obama isn’t only the coolest, smartest and best-dressed-bar-Jackie FLOTUS we’ll likely ever witness, she’s also a talented writer, and this book is full of intimate anecdotes tracking her journey from Chicago’s South Side to the White House and beyond. It’s an enjoyable enough read to delve into during that lethargic post-holiday period, but ultimately it’s an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity that’ll kick you into action for the impending New Year.” Recommended by Fedora Abu, Editorial Intern

“Even the trickiest person to buy for will be affected by this memoir-cum-cultural criticism. Olivia Laing explores the universally relatable subject of loneliness, using personal experience alongside investigations into artists who have also been troubled by feelings of isolation. Does that sound rather bleak? It’s not: it’s surprising, hopeful and moving. Kicking off with her own arrival in New York post-breakup, Laing finds comfort in Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, Andy Warhol’s Time Capsules, David Wojnarowicz’s AIDS activism and more, considering what it means to feel like an outsider, and why loneliness can actually be lovely.” Recommended by Georgia Simmonds, Arts Editor

“It was written at the turn of the century and published in 1905 but the themes are contemporary and timeless. The very human elements of weakness, stubbornness, fragility, greed, arrogance, entitlement and fear run at its heart. The heroine, Lily Bart – one of literature’s greatest, in my opinion – is a flawed but strong woman who refuses to settle and when she compromises herself, her pride gets in the way of salvation. The book speaks to the fragility of existence as a whole, irrespective of status. I am obsessed by it, and even have a first edition which I treasure.” Recommended by Vassi Chamberlain, Features Director

“Arguably the most revered poet of the 20th century and undoubtedly one of the most prolific, Pablo Neruda’s work touches on everything from history to politics and war, not to mention his infamous odes to quotidian items. However, it’s the singular way he speaks of infatuation, passion and lost love that is truly electrifying. Much of the incisive prose in this volume was written while Neruda was living in exile on the island of Capri, and that drama, tumult and romance can be felt in his words. It’s impossible not to be swept away.” Recommended by Megan Logue, Fashion Features Writer

“As a sucker for anything interior design related, the new book from Rizzoli on the New Zealand-born, London-based decorator Veere Grenney is definitely on my wish list (for myself) and gift list (for others). Home interiors royalty, Grenney doesn’t go in for gimmicks, nor does he spare any expense, designing rooms using the best-in-the-world (textiles, wallpaper, furniture, accessories) in an understated but distinctly luxurious way. Why not tent your bedroom ceiling in linen fabric, or have your walls hand painted by renowned decorative artist Alistair Erskine, or hang an entire 19th-century Royal Worcestershire dinner service on the wall? Hours and hours of inspiration.” Recommended by Ajesh Patalay, Senior Editor