There is no better time than the start of the New Year to get into reading books.

With many of our new year’s resolutions being ‘to read more’ I think this is an apt time for people get into the mesmerising world of reading! Whether you’re someone who never really liked reading but is interested in it now or someone who’s just going through a reading slump, there will definitely be a book in these next 5 that is sure to pique your interest and jumpstart your reading journey!

1.      Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

Renowned detective Hercule Poirot is aboard the luxurious Orient Express when a murder occurs. What follows is a brilliant exercise in deduction as Poirot interviews the passengers, unravels their alibis, and pieces together the puzzle of the crime. The novel is celebrated for its intricate plot, clever twists, and the ingenious solution to the mystery. Agatha Christie's storytelling prowess and her ability to keep readers guessing until the end make this a must-read for mystery enthusiasts!

2.      Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

You can’t make a list of books to read without including Jane Austen – it’s simply impossible! This novel is a masterpiece of romantic fiction, often considered one of the greatest works of literature. It explores themes of love, class, and manners in early 19th-century England. The witty Elizabeth Bennet and the proud Mr. Darcy navigate societal expectations and personal prejudices in a story that has captivated readers for generations. Austen's keen observations on human nature and her skilful portrayal of characters make this novel a timeless piece.

3.      To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

This timeless classic explores ideas of racial injustice, morality and compassion and remains relevant to this date. The character of Atticus Finch, our protagonist Scout Finch's father and a lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, embodies moral integrity and the fight against injustice. It provides a powerful commentary on the complexities of human nature and remains widely studied.

4.      Atomic Habits by James Clear

Published in 2018, this book falls within the self-help and personal development genre and gained immense popularity in 2023. James Clear introduces the concept of "atomic habits," which are tiny changes that compound over time to create significant outcomes. The book is a bestseller, influencing individuals, entrepreneurs, and leaders in various fields. Its approach to habit formation has been praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, making it a go-to resource for those looking to transform their lives through intentional behaviour change!

5.      The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

The story revolves around Dorian Gray, a young and attractive man whose portrait is painted by the artist Basil Hallward. Dorian expresses a desire to remain young and beautiful forever, even if it means his portrait ages instead. As Dorian indulges in a life of excess and immorality, his portrait becomes a hideous reflection of his sins while he remains outwardly unscathed. Through sharp dialogue and clever observations, Wilde critiques the societal norms and values of the time, challenging the Victorian ideals of morality and the perception of art.