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J. K. Rowling

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Joanne Rowling, CH, OBE, HonFRSE, FRCPE, FRSL, better known by her pen name J. K. Rowling, is a British author, screenwriter, producer, and philanthropist
20 books on the list
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Poverty Safari book cover
Poverty Safari
Understanding the Anger of Britain's Underclass
Darren McGarvey - 2017-11-02
Goodreads Rating
Discover the devastating effects of poverty on deprived communities all over Britain with this Orwell Prize-winning book. Written from firsthand experience, Poverty Safari takes readers on a raw and honest journey inside poverty to show just how difficult it is to overcome its legacies. The author argues that both the political left and right misunderstand poverty as it is actually lived, and sets out solutions that everyone can take to make a change. With fearless writing and razor-sharp insights, this book is an unforgettable look into modern Britain.
J. K. Rowling
2018-06-25T21:03:10.000Z
Incredible achievement. Stunning book.      source
The Iliad book cover
The Iliad
A New Translation by Peter Green
Homer - 2023-09-26 NaN
Goodreads Rating
This epic poem tells the tale of great warriors struggling with their own pride and the unpredictable whims of fate and the gods. Renowned scholar and translator Peter Green captures the surging thunder of the Iliad for a new generation of readers. With a personal introduction, detailed synopses, a glossary, and explanatory notes, this landmark translation is a must-read for anyone interested in Greek antiquity and the traditions of literature.
J. K. Rowling
I was thinking of The Iliad when Harry saved Cedric’s body.      source
Macbeth book cover
Macbeth
William Shakespeare - 2019-04-01 (first published in 1623)
Goodreads Rating
This classic tale of ambition, murder, and haunting comes to life in Shakespeare's Macbeth. As he rises to power with the help of three witches, Macbeth must continue to commit heinous acts to secure his position. Along the way, the play explores the dynamics of marriage and the lengths individuals will go to fulfill their desires. Embark on this journey through war, witchcraft, and bloodshed in one of Shakespeare's most enduring works.
J. K. Rowling
Possibly my favorite Shakespeare play.      source
The Song of Achilles book cover
The Song of Achilles
A Novel
Madeline Miller - 2012-08-28 (first published in 2011)
Goodreads Rating
This epic tale follows Achilles, the best of all Greeks, and the awkward young prince Patroclus, who forge an inseparable bond despite risking the gods' wrath. Trained in the arts of war and medicine by a centaur, they join the heroes of Greece to lay siege to Troy when Helen of Sparta is kidnapped. But when the cruel Fates demand a terrible sacrifice, their bond is put to the ultimate test.
J. K. Rowling
I loved it.      source
Justice book cover
Justice
What's the Right Thing to Do?
Michael J. Sandel - 2009-09-15 (first published in 2007)
Goodreads Rating
Discover a rare education on complicated issues and controversies we face in public life today. Justice offers a lucid and engaging guide for those who yearn for a more thoughtful public discourse. Michael Sandel confronts us with concepts that lurk beneath our conflicts, relating the big questions of political philosophy to the most vexing issues of the day, and showing how a surer grasp of philosophy can help us make sense of politics, morality, and our own convictions. An essential new addition to the small shelf of books that speak convincingly to the hard questions of our civic life.
J. K. Rowling
I’d give our prime minister Justice.      source
Recommended by
Nigel Warburton
Team of Rivals book cover
Team of Rivals
The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln
Doris Kearns Goodwin - 2006-09-26 (first published in 2005)
Goodreads Rating
Discover the inspiring leadership techniques of one of America's greatest presidents with this bestselling and award-winning book. Team of Rivals is a thrilling narrative history that shows how Abraham Lincoln saved America by appointing his fiercest rival to key cabinet positions. This book was so impactful that it inspired Barack Obama during his presidency. Doris Kearns Goodwin, one of the most acclaimed non-fiction authors, presents a compelling portrait of Lincoln as a virtuosic politician and managerial genius.
J. K. Rowling
I lived in it the way that you do with truly great books; putting it down with glazed eyes and feeling disconcerted to find yourself in the 21st century.      source
Hons and Rebels book cover
Hons and Rebels
Jessica Mitford - 2004-09-30 (first published in 1960)
Goodreads Rating
Explore the fascinating upbringing and rebellious spirit of an iconic journalist from an English aristocratic family. Meet her sisters: Nancy, a renowned novelist; Diana, wife of a fascist leader; Unity, who fell in love with Hitler; and Deborah, later the Duchess of Devonshire. Follow Jessica Mitford's journey from a unconventional childhood filled with strange hobbies and made-up languages to her elopement with Churchill's nephew to fight in the Spanish Civil War. Discover Mitford's sharp wit and her hilarious take on her family's scandalous journey in Hons and Rebels.
J. K. Rowling
My most influential writer, without a doubt, is Jessica Mitford.      source
Little Women book cover
Little Women
Louisa May Alcott - 2004-04-06 (first published in 1868)
Goodreads Rating
Four unique sisters rely on each other during their father's absence in this heartwarming story. From putting on plays to forming secret societies, they face life's ups and downs with the one question always on their minds: will Father make it home safely from war?
J. K. Rowling
My favorite literary heroine is Jo March.      source
Ballet Shoes book cover
Ballet Shoes
Noel Streatfeild - 2003-09-01 (first published in 1936)
Goodreads Rating
This heartwarming tale follows three determined orphans who attend a dance academy in hopes of making a name for themselves. As they dive headfirst into the world of show business, each girl must find the courage to follow their own unique dreams. With inspiring themes of hard work and perseverance, this book is perfect for any reader looking to be swept off their feet by an uplifting story.
J. K. Rowling
I still reread Ballet Shoes.      source
The Oxford Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge
Cheri and the Last of Cheri by Colette Colette
Secrets of the Flesh by Judith Thurman
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
The diaries of Auberon Waugh by Auberon Waugh
Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
The Story of the Treasure Seekers by Edith Nesbit
The Collected Stories of Colette by Colette
Grimble and Grimble at Christmas by Clement Freud
Manxmouse by Paul Gallico