Back to School Reading for Mums & Dads

As schools finally re-open, parents will be feeling less pressure to keep kids entertained. Hopefully this means they can relax a little, and fall in love with books all over again! Luckily, there's a whole host of new titles set to hit shelves over the next few weeks, so no matter how much time you have on your hands or what types of books you usually enjoy, there’ll be something to suit your need. 

The Perfect Crime

There’s nothing like a compelling crime drama to keep you turning the page. If you’ve got time to really sink your teeth into a gripping novel, be sure to check out the latest from Charlotte Philby. Following two seemingly unconnected women, A Double Life delves into the murky world of human trafficking and exploitation. The Last Widow by Karin Slaughter is equally compelling; a woman is abducted in front of her child, leading partners Linton and Trent into the heart of a deadly conspiracy. Irish author Louise O’Neill’s After the Silence is set on the island of Inisruin, where a documentary crew aim to discover who murdered Nessa Crowley a decade ago. 

Non-fiction Fans

If you’ll still be relatively busy this autumn and would rather something light to dip into, there are plenty of fun non-fictions coming out too. DJ and actor Bernard O’Shea documents his midlife crisis in the hilarious Manopause. True Colours by jockey Barry Geraghty offers an insight into the mind of a sportsman, explaining why despite multiple broken bones, he keeps getting back on the horse! Foodies meanwhile should pick up a copy of The Joy of Food, by Ballymaloe Cookery School founder Rory O’Connell. A series of gorgeous recipes, illustrations and essays, it will help mums and dads rediscover the joy of putting together a tasty nutritious meal the whole family will enjoy. 

Keep up the Spirits

There’s no doubt the pandemic has taken its toll on all of us, physically and mentally. If you’re busy and stressed despite the kids going back to school, there are some beautiful, reflective books about to hit shelves too. In Manchán Magan’s Thirty-Two Words for Field, the writer and documentary-maker explores a lyrical treasure trove of Irish words, all of which offer a new way of viewing the world around us. Photographer Ruth Medjber’s Twilight Together perfectly captured the poignancy of lockdown; this series of stunning window portraits celebrates the resilience of the Irish people. Finally, One for Everyone – a collection of poems curated by Kathleen Watkins. These are the words that comforted Kathleen since the death last year of her husband, the iconic broadcaster Gay Byrne. Poets featured include Eavan Boland, WB Yeats and Carol Ann Duffy.

What books are you looking forward to reading as autumn sets in? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter, using #ReadersWanted.