If there’s one thing we all need in Hong Kong, it’s a good book to read to escape the hectic life we all lead here! So, to save you trawling the shelves of your local bookshop, we’ve rounded up 10 new, notable and upcoming good reads, recommended by the team at Bookazine.
Good Reads – Fiction
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig
When retired Maths teacher Grace Winters is left a rundown house on a Mediterranean island by a long-lost friend, curiosity gets the better of her. She arrives in Ibiza with a one-way ticket, no guidebook and no plan. What she uncovers is stranger than she could have dreamt!
Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson
The stage is set. The players are ready. By night’s end, a murderer will be revealed. Ex-detective Jackson Brodie is staving off midlife malaise when he’s called to a sleepy Yorkshire town and the seemingly tedious matter of a stolen painting. But one theft leads to another.
Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel
The eight teenage girl boxers in this strikingly original debut novel all make sacrifices to come to Reno, Nevada, to compete to be named the best in the country. Headshot is a portrait of the desire, envy, perfectionism, madness and physical pleasure that motivate young women to fight.
This Strange Eventful History by Claire Messud
This work of breathtaking historical sweep and psychological intimacy charts the story of three generations. Follow a French-Algerian family, the Cassars, as its members move around the world in search of an elusive wholeness.
New Books to Discover in Non-Fiction
Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI Yuval by Noah Harari
Harari’s book explores the evolution of information networks throughout history. In addition to their impact on power structures, economies and social relationships. It offers thought-provoking insights that challenge readers to consider the role of technology in shaping our world.
Ottolenghi Comfort by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh
In his much-anticipated new book, Ottolenghi brings his inspiring, flavour-forward approach to comfort cooking, delivering new classics that taste of home. He also weaves memories of childhood and travel into over 100 irresistible recipes.
Living the Asian Century by Kishore Mahbubani
In this stirring memoir, a preeminent politician and diplomat traces the transformation of Singapore from a poor colony into an Asian powerhouse, chronicling his own life that led from a poor childhood in a multi-ethnic neighbourhood to an illustrious global career.
Guinness World Records 2025 by Guinness World Records
Time to open the next chapter of record breaking! Filled with awesome facts and feats for the whole family, this year’s edition of Guinness World Records marks the book’s 70th anniversary. In addition, you can learn how record breaking has changed over the years and what incredible looks like in 2025.
Good Book Recommendations for Kids and Tweens
Luca’s Dim Sum Adventure by Cindy Lam
This engaging tale follows Luca and his grandparents on a journey of discovery and joy. Through the lens of trying new foods and enjoying dim sum, the story highlights patience, overcoming fear, and the incredible connection between a grandson and grandparents.
100% Unofficial Taylor Swift Annual 2025 by 100% Unofficial and Ben Wilson
It’s me, hi … your essential unofficial guide to Taylor Swift! Packed with fun facts all about Tay-Tay, this guide is ideal for new and old Swifties alike. Dive into Taylor’s origins, discover her fashion style over the years, learn about her impressive achievements and walk through the eras with her 11 albums.
This article about good books to read by Bookazine first appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
Find these titles and more good books to read on the Bookazine website.