Books
The 2026 Women’s Prize winners talk rejection, process and finding stories worth telling
Veteran journalist Lyse Doucet turned an experience in Afghanistan into a chronicle of history. Meanwhile, after years of setbacks, Virginia Evans turned a writing exercise into award-winning fiction.
Latest in Monocle Radio
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‘Do not forget this humanity in the face of such suffering’: Culture writer Kate Tsurkan on keeping Ukrainian literature alive during war
Editor and translator Kate Tsurkan highlights how Ukrainian authors, both past and present, address themes of human dignity, freedom and the right to choose your future.
Leaf through London with 10 bookshops that are bound to please
Few cities are as bookish as London and Monocle knows the capital cover to cover. From the best bookshops for urbanism to where you can browse wine in hand, here’s our favourite spots.
Three delights for print-lovers: A 24hr bookstore and two must-reads
Step inside Taipei’s 24-hour Eslite bookstore, explore Joann Sfar’s illustrated Paris and discover why KLM’s Holland Herald remains a print icon.
In praise of Sara Wheeler, a clear-sighted laureate of the world’s frozen regions
Sara Wheeler’s immersive work proves the role of travel writer is still essential. Her Arctic dispatches explore what it means to survive, thrive and stay alive.
‘Anyone can be killed at any moment’: How Pussy Riot’s Maria Alyokhina remains firm in the face of persecution
The Russian political activist’s second book outlines her experience in a penal colony, the art of protest under authoritarian rule and amplifying the voices of Russia’s unheard political prisoners.
New York’s 10 best lesser-known bookshops
From West Village stalwarts to hidden living-room selections, this Monocle guide celebrates New York’s independent booksellers, specialist collections and the city’s enduring literary culture beyond the more obvious big names.
South American literature is having a moment – and women are at the forefront
Latin American literature in translation is continuing to find success, especially works by women writers. Charco Press is leading the charge. Monocle speaks with Carolina Orloff, its founder, about the phenomenon.
Five thought-provoking books that will challenge the way you think
This season, here are the atmospheric reads with which to hunker down as the nights draw in and the frost creeps across the windowpanes.
‘The Winter Warriors’ by Olivier Norek tells the unknown stories of Finnish soldiers and their quiet heroism
The French author travelled to Finland’s icy forests to get closer to his subject – sniper Simo Häyhä and the Finnish soldiers whose bravery helped to change the course of the Second World War.
Switzerland: The Monocle Handbook
The latest in our Handbook series is a practical and inspirational guide to one of Europe’s most admired nations. Order your copy today.
