Derek Philpott, who passed away at 89, combined a career in electronic engineering with a passion for local history, creating the Openshaw Memories website and a photo-book to preserve Manchester's industrial heritage.
A review of recent crime and thriller novels, including Jennie Godfrey's 'The Barbecue at No 9' set during Live Aid, MK Oliver's satirical 'A Sociopath's Guide to a Successful Marriage', and Alex Preston's espionage tale 'A Stranger in Corfu'.
Bulgarian author Georgi Gospodinov discusses how Jorge Luis Borges inspired his sense of literary freedom and creative exploration in his works.
Explore reviews of three new releases: a post-war spy thriller set in Scotland, a standalone Agatha Christie mystery, and a collection of impossible crime stories.
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Shelley Klein's 'My Husband And Other Rats', Anna Brook-Mitchell's 'Motherfaker', and Katya Balen's 'Our Numbered Bones' offer compelling stories of personal crisis and unexpected journeys.
Francis Spufford's novel Nonesuch delivers a thrilling mix of Blitz-era London, mystical beings, and Keynesian economics, while two other debuts explore coming-of-age and feminist narratives.
Explore three captivating new children's books: a tender bedtime story about a little owl, a time-travel novel tackling family issues, and a thrilling werewolf mystery with atmospheric illustrations.
A review of Sean Gilbert's novel 'I'll Be the Monster' explores the blurred lines between fantasy and psychopathy in its characters, sparking debate on literary themes.
Deaf actress Rose Ayling-Ellis discusses her new children's book 'The Big Bang!' selected for World Book Day 2026, as literacy experts warn of declining reading enjoyment among children.
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A review of Melvyn Bragg's memoir 'Another World,' exploring his early life and career, offering insights into his journey from childhood to broadcasting fame.
The Lukas Prize Project announces its 2026 finalists, featuring works on James Baldwin, the Ukraine conflict, and American social issues. Winners will receive up to $25,000.
A Reddit user discovered a pristine leather-bound edition of Agatha Christie's 'And Then There Were None' while clearing out their grandparents' house, sparking excitement among mystery fans.
A detailed review of 'Old Songs' by Amy Jeffs and Gwen Burns, exploring its retelling of ancient tales with themes of maidens and magic in a modern context.
A review of John Morrissey's latest novel 'Bird Deity', which delves into themes of avian mythology and human connection, praised for its lyrical prose and imaginative storytelling.
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A review of John Yorke's storytelling handbook finds insights marred by hyperbole and political tangents, undermining its utility for aspiring writers.
Pulitzer winner Barbara Kingsolver announces 'Partita,' her first novel since 'Demon Copperhead,' exploring a pianist's unfulfilled passion in a rural community.
Deepa Anappara's second novel, The Last of Earth, delves into 19th-century Tibet's forbidden lands, following Indian and British explorers on a perilous odyssey that critiques colonial history and human impermanence.
The Guardian's weekly Thursday quiz challenges readers with a mix of general knowledge and current events trivia, offering a fun test of awareness and facts.
Maria Stepanova's new book 'The Disappearing Act' delves into themes of Russian guilt and historical memory through poetic narrative, offering a profound literary exploration.
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William Golding's classic novel 'Lord of the Flies' continues to shock with its stark portrayal of humanity's inherent capacity for cruelty and violence, mirroring modern urban realities.
Namwali Serpell's new book 'On Morrison' delivers a deep, enriching critical analysis of Toni Morrison's novels, focusing on narrative craft rather than biography or inspirational quotes.
Discover how one reader managed to finish 95 books in a year, with practical advice on overcoming common reading barriers and boosting your literary intake.
Explore the latest audiobook releases, including memoirs narrated by Emma Thompson and Adjoa Andoh, as audio listening surges in popularity among UK audiences.
Comedian Jess Robinson juxtaposes her life at 23 with her grandmother's Holocaust diaries from 1938-1943 in new memoir Life Is Rosi, exploring trauma, resilience and unexpected parallels.
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A review of Sophie Ward's 'Our Better Natures' explores its reinterpretation of Andrea Dworkin's radical feminist ideas for contemporary audiences.
Algerian writer Kamel Daoud's award-winning novel Houris faces lawsuits from Saâda Arbane, who alleges he stole her life story, igniting debates on ethics and Franco-Algerian tensions.
Gisèle Pelicot's memoir, 'A Hymn to Life,' details her journey from victim to powerful figure after her husband's horrific crimes. It challenges societal expectations and offers a unique perspective on survival.
As her Women's prize-winning novel Hamnet heads to the Oscars, we rank Maggie O'Farrell's best works, exploring themes of love, loss, and motherhood across her acclaimed career.
Explore pivotal moments from February 16-22 through The Independent's archives: Thatcher's Soviet warning, Rushdie fatwa fallout, Amazon's Chernobyl, and Tiger Woods' scandal.
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Seán Farrell's debut novel, Frogs for Watchdogs, offers a charming and poignant child's-eye view of rural Ireland, blending humour and pathos in a story of family and trust.
