{"title":"Literary fiction gifts","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore a curated selection of literary fiction gifts perfect for readers who appreciate thought-provoking stories and rich characters. Titles like The Bell Jar and Stoner offer timeless narratives that spark conversation and reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"tomorrow-and-tomorrow-and-tomorrow","title":"Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStylish and open-hearted, this is a very different kind of love story, elevated and energised by being set in the world of creativity and video gaming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTHE BESTSELLING PHENOMENON\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eI loved this book\u003c\/em\u003e – Jojo Moyes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the story of Sam and Sadie. It's not a romance, but it is about love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Sam catches sight of Sadie at a crowded train station one winter morning, he is catapulted back to the brief time they spent playing together as children. Their unique spark is instantly reignited.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat comes next is a story of friendship and rivalry, fame and creativity, betrayal and tragedy, perfect worlds and imperfect ones. And, ultimately, our need to connect—to be loved and to love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLove, friendship and betrayal... gorgeous\u003c\/em\u003e – Sunday Telegraph\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOne of the best books I've ever read\u003c\/em\u003e – John Green\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eI loved it\u003c\/em\u003e – Celeste Ng\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis blew me away\u003c\/em\u003e – Pandora Sykes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45595868594412,"sku":"9781529115543","price":18.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781529115543_0a99878c-deb0-48df-8879-c4407ee9fdd9.jpg?v=1754958380"},{"product_id":"rabbit-is-rich","title":"Rabbit is Rich","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSet against the backdrop of the late 1970s, \u003cem\u003eRabbit is Rich\u003c\/em\u003e by John Updike continues the story of Harry \"Rabbit\" Angstrom, a man who finds himself at a crossroads in life. No longer the restless youth of earlier novels, Rabbit has settled into middle age with all its trappings of comfort and success. He serves as the Chief Sales Representative and co-owner of Springer Motors, a successful car dealership, and enjoys the material wealth that his position affords him. Rabbit's days are marked by good suits, a steady influx of cash, and a trim wife who divides her time between their home and the country club.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, peace of mind proves elusive for Rabbit. As he reflects on his life, he is besieged by a sense of discontent and lingering regret. Despite achieving the American Dream, he is haunted by the choices he didn't make and the possibilities that have slipped through his fingers. The novel delves into Rabbit's complex psyche as he grapples with his past decisions and contemplates the paths not taken.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUpdike masterfully captures the zeitgeist of the era, portraying the economic anxieties and social changes that define 1970s America. Through Rabbit’s interactions with his family, friends, and community, the novel explores themes of fulfilment, identity, and the inexorable passage of time. Rabbit's internal struggles are poignantly rendered, making his journey both a personal and universal exploration of human experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith its keen psychological insight and vivid portrayal of suburban life, \u003cem\u003eRabbit is Rich\u003c\/em\u003e offers a rich tapestry of characters and emotions, inviting readers to ponder the true cost of the lives they lead and the dreams they leave behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45641141027052,"sku":"9780141188553","price":27.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780141188553.jpg?v=1724552029"},{"product_id":"a-ladder-to-the-sky","title":"A Ladder to the Sky","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eA Ladder to the Sky\u003c\/i\u003e by John Boyne is a riveting exploration of ambition, deceit, and the lengths one will go to achieve success. Maurice Swift is a young aspiring novelist, haunting the literary scene and searching for the story that will catapult him to fame. However, Maurice's drive to become a celebrated author lacks one crucial element: originality. He is willing to beg, borrow, and steal to craft a narrative that will ensure his place in the literary pantheon, no matter the cost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe novel begins with Maurice encountering Erich Ackerman, a renowned author, in a Berlin hotel. Erich, vulnerable and lonely, is eager to share his past, a history filled with stories that Maurice soon sees as valuable. Swift's lack of creativity is overshadowed by his relentless determination and acute awareness of the power of a compelling story, regardless of its origin. As he exploits his connection with Ackerman, Maurice's insatiable hunger for fame begins to reveal a darker, more ruthless side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Maurice achieves initial success, he quickly realises that literary fame is an unending ladder that requires new material to climb higher. Discarding any scruples, he continues his pursuit by delving into the lives of others, extracting their stories without remorse. Swift’s journey through the literary world is a testament to how far someone will go when driven by the intoxicating allure of success. As he ascends the metaphorical ladder, the stakes grow higher, and the moral compromises become ever more severe, leading to potentially devastating consequences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis novel is not merely a tale of ambition, but a dark and gripping morality play about the nature of creativity and the often unscrupulous world of literary fame. Boyne masterfully crafts a narrative that is as intriguing as it is unsettling, drawing readers into Maurice’s manipulative machinations and the inevitable fallout of his actions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\"A deliciously dark tale of ambition, seduction and literary theft... an ingeniously conceived novel that confirms Boyne as one of the most assured writers of his generation,\" writes Hannah Beckerman in the \u003ci\u003eObserver\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eA Ladder to the Sky\u003c\/i\u003e serves as a stark reminder that ambition, like setting a ladder to the sky, can lead to both dizzying heights and perilous falls. Maurice Swift’s story is a chilling reflection of the lengths people will go to for success, and the costs that may come with it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\"Maurice Swift, the novelist protagonist of John Boyne's \u003ci\u003eA Ladder to the Sky\u003c\/i\u003e, is a bookish version of Patricia Highsmith's psychopathic antihero Tom Ripley,\" praises \u003ci\u003eThe Times\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\"A dark morality tale in the mould of Patricia Highsmith... consistently intriguing,\" states the \u003ci\u003eDaily Mail\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePrepare to be captivated by John Boyne's sinister and thought-provoking novel, where the pursuit of glory overshadows basic humanity, compelling readers to ponder the true price of ambition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45657787498732,"sku":"9781784161019","price":26.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781784161019_38045617-41c1-4d06-9ef6-8913c76646d2.jpg?v=1739660569"},{"product_id":"all-the-kings-men","title":"All the King's Men","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAll the King's Men\u003c\/em\u003e, first published in 1946, is an acclaimed novel by Robert Penn Warren that was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1947. Set against the backdrop of the American South during the 1930s, this literary masterpiece explores the turbulent world of politics through the compelling rise and fall of its protagonist, Willie Stark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe novel begins with Stark as an earnest and idealistic man, who starts his political journey with a genuine desire to serve the people. He emerges from the rural simplicity of his small-town roots, a representation that closely mirrors the real-life figure of Huey 'Kingfish' Long, the populist governor of Louisiana. As Stark ascends the political ladder, he is initially embraced as a hero of the common man, advocating for social reform and justice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, as Stark becomes more entangled in the web of political power, his ideals begin to waver. His transformation from a humble politician to a corrupt, power-hungry figure forms the crux of the narrative. The novel delves deeply into the moral and ethical struggles that accompany such a metamorphosis, depicting how success and influence can lead to the subversion of one's principles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWarren's rich and evocative prose brings the Southern political landscape to life, lending a voice to the complexities and contradictions of the human condition. Through its intricate character development and multifaceted themes, \u003cem\u003eAll the King's Men\u003c\/em\u003e offers a profound exploration of ambition, power, and the inherent corruption within political systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe novel's enduring relevance and critical acclaim have led to multiple adaptations, including an Academy Award-winning film in 1949 and a star-studded remake in 2006. Each interpretation brings its own unique perspective to Warren's enduring tale, further cementing its status as a seminal work on American politics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor readers seeking a gripping narrative that offers both historical significance and deep psychological insight, \u003cem\u003eAll the King's Men\u003c\/em\u003e remains an essential and timeless read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45657792217324,"sku":"9780141188614","price":36.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780141188614.jpg?v=1724844791"},{"product_id":"butchers-crossing","title":"Butcher's Crossing","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eButcher's Crossing\u003c\/em\u003e by John Williams is an evocative exploration of the American frontier, cutting through the romanticised veneer of the Wild West with a tale both stark and introspective. This powerful narrative delves into the depths of human ambition and the brutal realities of nature, presented through the eyes of an idealistic young man seeking his own frontier experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWill Andrews, yearning for a life unbound by the constraints of academia, leaves Harvard with dreams of freedom, adventure, and self-discovery. His quest leads him to the rugged landscapes of Kansas, where he arrives in the small town of Butcher's Crossing. There, he encounters Miller, a seasoned buffalo hunter with an alluring tale of a hidden valley in Colorado teeming with a lost herd of buffalo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawn by the promise of riches and the call of the wild, Will joins Miller and a small group of men on a perilous expedition into the wilderness. As they journey through unforgiving terrain, facing severe weather and scarcity of resources, the team's resolve and sanity are relentlessly tested. The relentless pursuit of their quarry reveals not only the brutal indifference of nature but also the profound psychological and moral challenges that come with such an endeavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eButcher's Crossing\u003c\/em\u003e masterfully captures the stark, rugged beauty of the Western landscape, while offering a profound meditation on the human condition and the true meaning of freedom. Williams' prose, understated yet powerful, paints a vivid portrait of an America on the cusp of transformation, and the men who are shaped by its unforgiving environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis novel is a gripping read for anyone interested in Westerns, historical fiction, or stories of introspection and personal growth. 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Since leaving his island home, his life has been a lie on many levels. He's a talented footballer who wanted to be an artist. A gay man in a sport that rejects diversity. A defendant whose knowledge of what took place on that fateful night threatens more than just his freedom or career.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe jury will deliver a verdict but, before they do, Evan must judge for himself whether the man he has become is the man he wanted to be.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45657903431916,"sku":"9780857529831","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780857529831.jpg?v=1724846051"},{"product_id":"earthly-powers","title":"Earthly Powers","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eEarthly Powers\u003c\/i\u003e by Anthony Burgess is a sprawling and audacious epic that intricately weaves the narratives of two compelling men whose lives are a study in contrasts and convergences. The story spans much of the 20th century, delivering a vast and richly detailed tapestry of historical events, religious upheavals, and personal ambitions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt its heart is Kenneth Toomey, a renowned novelist and openly homosexual man who navigates the shifting social landscapes of his time with perspicacity and defiance. Over the course of his long life, Toomey becomes an emblem of the literary world, noted for his biting wit and unapologetic flamboyance, even as he contends with the isolation and bitterness that accompany his notoriety and fame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn stark contrast stands Carlo Campanati, a soft-spoken yet deeply influential clergyman who ascends the ranks of the Catholic Church with quiet tenacity and tactical genius. As a skilled negotiator and reformer, he becomes embroiled in the religious and political machinations of the Vatican, steering courses through conflict and controversy with an eye on potential sainthood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the juxtaposition of Toomey’s secular achievements and Campanati’s spiritual aspirations, Burgess delves into profound explorations of power—both earthly and divine. Their lives, though seemingly disparate, are interwoven by family ties, mutual respect, and a shared insight into the complex vulnerabilities of humanity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eEarthly Powers\u003c\/i\u003e is not merely a character study but a sweeping reflection on the forces that shape our world. Burgess’s prose is both erudite and accessible, offering readers a narrative that is as intellectually provocative as it is entertaining. This masterwork captures the essence of power in its many forms, portraying the triumphs and tragedies that define human existence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45657904185580,"sku":"9780099468646","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780099468646.jpg?v=1724846068"},{"product_id":"table-for-two","title":"Table For Two","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the bestselling author of \u003cem\u003eThe Lincoln Highway\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eA Gentleman in Moscow\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eRules of Civility\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTHE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES and NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFROM THE AUTHOR OF A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW, THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY AND RULES OF CIVILITY\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e'A knockout . . . \u003cem\u003eTable for Two\u003c\/em\u003e is a winner' — NEW YORK TIMES\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e'There is no better writer working today' — CHRIS CLEAVE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e'He makes it all seem effortless' — TANA FRENCH\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e'A gem of a book that springs delights and surprises on every page' — JEFFREY ARCHER\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e'There is a great deal to relish in \u003cem\u003eTable for Two\u003c\/em\u003e . . . If you take only one book on holiday this summer, you couldn't ask for a better literary capsule wardrobe' — THE TIMES\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAmor Towles fans are in for a treat as he shares some of his shorter fiction — six stories based in New York City and a novella set in Golden Age Hollywood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe New York stories, most of which take place around the year 2000, consider the fateful consequences that can spring from brief encounters and the delicate mechanics of compromise that operate at the heart of modern marriages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the novella, 'Eve in Hollywood', Towles returns to one of the characters at the heart of his debut novel \u003cem\u003eRules of Civility\u003c\/em\u003e — the indomitable Evelyn Ross, who leaves New York City in September 1938 with the intention of returning home to Indiana. But as her train pulls into Chicago, where her parents are waiting, she instead extends her ticket to Los Angeles. Told from multiple points of view, 'Eve in Hollywood' describes how Towles' heroine crafts a new future for herself and others in a noirish tale that takes us through the movie sets, bungalows and dive bars of Los Angeles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWritten with wit, humour and sophistication, \u003cem\u003eTable for Two\u003c\/em\u003e is a glittering and stylish offering from the author of \u003cem\u003eA Gentleman in Moscow\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eThe Lincoln Highway\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eRules of Civility\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePraise for \u003cem\u003eThe Lincoln Highway\u003c\/em\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\"A rollicking cross-country adventure, rife with unforgettable characters, vivid scenery and suspense that will keep readers flying through the pages.\" — Time\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\"Elegantly constructed and compulsively readable . . . hitch onto this delightful tour de force and you'll be pulled straight through to the end, helpless against the inventive exuberance of Towles' storytelling.\" — NPR\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\"Wise and wildly entertaining . . . Towles goes all in on the kind of episodic, exuberant narrative haywire found in myth or Homeric epic.\" — The New York Times Book Review\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstant Sunday Times bestseller, May 2024\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45658069696748,"sku":"9781529154115","price":25.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781529154115.jpg?v=1724848928"},{"product_id":"the-fountainhead","title":"The Fountainhead","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Fountainhead\u003c\/i\u003e by Ayn Rand is a gripping narrative that revolves around the unwavering and fiercely independent architect, Howard Roark. Roark’s vision and uncompromising integrity lead him to clash with a conformist society that resists innovation and creativity. The novel intricately explores Roark's journey as he battles against traditional norms, challenges mediocrity, and strives to preserve his unique artistic vision amidst an environment thick with opposition and resentment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally published in 1943, \u003ci\u003eThe Fountainhead\u003c\/i\u003e has become a cornerstone of contemporary literature, celebrated for its unrelenting critique of collectivism and its ardent advocacy of individualism. Through vibrant storytelling, Rand presents a powerful exploration of ambition, power, and the raw pursuit of personal excellence. Howard Roark's character embodies the quintessence of man's creative potential, serving as a bold testament to the strength and nobility of individual endeavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe novel's thematic depth is complemented by its richly developed characters, including the enigmatic and formidable newspaper mogul, Gail Wynand, the manipulative and self-sacrificing Peter Keating, and the indomitable and passionate Dominique Francon. Their interactions weave a complex tapestry of ideals, contrasting the mediocrity of the 'second-hand souls' against the brilliance of pure, unadulterated creativity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Fountainhead\u003c\/i\u003e is much more than a story of architecture and buildings; it is a celebration of the human spirit and a profound philosophical treatise. At its core, the book is a fervent plea for the recognition of individual rights, the pursuit of personal dreams, and the exaltation of man's ability to think and create. 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These students, Richard Papen, Henry Winter, Bunny Corcoran, Francis Abernathy, and the twins Charles and Camilla Macaulay, become immersed in the study of ancient Greek culture, forming an exclusive and secretive clique that strives to experience life on a different plane from their ordinary peers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawn into a world where beauty, power, and the mystique of ancient rituals reign supreme, the group begins to push the boundaries of morality, exploring ideas that are both intellectually thrilling and perilous. As they delve deeper into their studies and form increasingly dangerous bonds with one another, their quest for a transcendence beyond the mundane takes a sinister turn. 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Along the way, Daniel’s life becomes a mirror reflecting the very essence of the enigmatic novel he cherishes, leading him down paths where the past and present merge in haunting, unpredictable ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Shadow of the Wind\u003c\/em\u003e is a masterfully crafted tale about the transformative power of books, exploring themes of identity, loss, and redemption. Carlos Ruiz Zafón immerses readers in an atmospheric and vividly depicted Barcelona, weaving a narrative brimming with tension, romance, and richly developed characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBlending elements of mystery, historical fiction, and coming-of-age genres, \u003cem\u003eThe Shadow of the Wind\u003c\/em\u003e promises an unforgettable reading experience where every page unfolds a new layer of intrigue and revelation. Carlos Ruiz Zafón’s storytelling prowess ensures that the book’s enchantment lingers long after the final page is turned, making it a timeless addition to any literary collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45658306019564,"sku":"9781920885854","price":27.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781920885854.jpg?v=1724851608"},{"product_id":"the-stranger","title":"The Stranger","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Stranger\u003c\/em\u003e by Albert Camus is a profound exploration of existentialism and the human condition, centring around the life of Meursault, an ordinary man living in Algiers. 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With his sharp wit, unflagging determination, and a knack for exploiting the weakness of others, Sammy leaves a trail of deceit and broken dreams in his wake. Schulberg's masterful narrative delves into the mechanisms of Sammy's ruthless tactics and the price he pays for his unyielding quest for success.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSet against the glamorous yet gritty backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, \u003cem\u003eWhat Makes Sammy Run?\u003c\/em\u003e provides an insider’s view of the movie business, exposing the darker side of fame and fortune. Through the eyes of the more idealistic screenwriter Al Manheim, readers witness Sammy's relentless upward trajectory and the moral compromises that accompany his rise to power. 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Through rich and descriptive prose, Doerr paints a hauntingly beautiful portrait of a world faced with darkness and destruction, yet brimming with moments of light and hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe story centres on Marie-Laure LeBlanc, a young girl who has been blind since the age of six. Her father, a locksmith at the Museum of Natural History in Paris, creates intricate miniature models of their neighbourhood to help her navigate the world. When the Nazis occupy Paris, they are forced to flee to the walled citadel of Saint-Malo, carrying with them an invaluable diamond, the \"Sea of Flames,\" that her father has been entrusted to protect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eParallel to Marie-Laure's story is that of Werner Pfennig, a German orphan with a gift for engineering. His talent with radios leads him to the attention of the Hitler Youth Academy, where he is trained and eventually sent out into the war to locate resistance activities. 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This lyrical work will captivate fans of John Green, \u003ci\u003eLove, Simon\u003c\/i\u003e, and \u003ci\u003eCall Me by Your Name\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\nIn the summer of 1987, we meet \u003cb\u003eAristotle \"Ari\" Mendoza\u003c\/b\u003e, an introspective and angry teenager with a brother imprisoned and a family history shrouded in silence. On the other hand, there is \u003cb\u003eDante Quintana\u003c\/b\u003e, a sure-minded and articulate boy with an unconventional outlook on life. Despite their apparent differences, their chance encounter at a swimming pool marks the beginning of an extraordinary relationship.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\nAri and Dante, both loners in their own way, discover a unique connection, a friendship that transcends superficial bonds and transforms their lives irrevocably. 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Mason navigates [Martha's challenges] with dark charm.' \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'I am adding \u003cem\u003eSorrow and Bliss\u003c\/em\u003e to my list of the best novels of 2020.' \u003cem\u003eThe Australian\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'Both fantastically dark and almost unbearably funny... its beautifully understated, airy style conceals the fiercest intelligence. I loved it so much that I stalked the author on social media - a first. Just read it. It's unforgettable.' India Knight, \u003cem\u003eThe Times\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'Such a good book and so richly warrants the \u003cem\u003eFleabag\u003c\/em\u003e reference... 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Patchett eloquently portrays what it means to be an integral part of another person's life, where two lives become beautifully and inextricably intertwined. This memoir is both a celebration and an elegy, a vividly painted portrait of what it truly means to love and to be loved unconditionally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45687191863532,"sku":"9780007196784","price":17.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780007196784.jpg?v=1725474850"},{"product_id":"1q84","title":"1Q84","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e1Q84\u003c\/i\u003e by Haruki Murakami is a mesmerising, epic, and utterly involving masterpiece that transports readers to an alternate reality mirroring our own but distinctly different. The year is 1984, but when Aomame, a fitness instructor with a knack for assassination, and Tengo, a mathematics teacher and aspiring novelist, begin to notice subtle but significant changes in their world, they realise they have entered a parallel universe identified as 1Q84.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this intriguing and thought-provoking realm, two moons hang in the sky, and the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. Aomame and Tengo’s lives are intricately and dangerously linked as they navigate their dual existences. As they each grapple with their own personal quests and the enigmatic forces at play, they uncover deeper truths about their world and themselves. 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It is his most achieved novel; an epic in which form and content are neatly aligned' - Independent on Sunday\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45691200372972,"sku":"9780099578079","price":34.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780099578079.jpg?v=1725543060"},{"product_id":"1q84-books-1-and-2","title":"1Q84: Books 1 and 2","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e1Q84: Books 1 and 2\u003c\/em\u003e by Haruki Murakami transports readers to an alternate reality of Tokyo in the year 1Q84, a parallel existence that is eerily similar yet subtly different from our own. In this world, the sky holds two moons and mysterious events unfold that defy logical explanation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of this intriguing story are two characters whose lives are intricately connected: Tengo, a mathematics teacher and aspiring writer, and Aomame, a fitness instructor with a secret, deadly occupation. Through a series of inexplicable occurrences, both find themselves embroiled in a dangerous journey that intertwines their fates. They are each undertaking perilous tasks that place not only their own lives at risk but that also expose them to the inexplicable strangeness cloaked within this dual-mooned existence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe narrative oscillates between Tengo and Aomame’s perspectives, revealing an enigmatic world where reality and fiction blur, compelling them to question everything they have known. As their paths converge, the line between the bizarre and the ordinary dissolves, challenging them to navigate a surreal and enigmatic environment where salvation seems elusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e1Q84\u003c\/em\u003e is a masterfully crafted tale that explores themes of love, identity, and the manipulation of reality. Haruki Murakami's rich storytelling and compelling characters draw readers into a fantastical yet disturbingly familiar world. His clear prose and gripping narrative style transport readers through layers of mystery, creating an unputdownable reading experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShortlisted for the 2013 IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, \u003cem\u003e1Q84: Books 1 and 2\u003c\/em\u003e is a testament to Murakami's prowess as one of the world's greatest living novelists. 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One of the Guardian's 100 Best Books of the 21st Century, this introspective novel delves deeply into the author's own life experiences, offering a raw and compelling narrative that captures universal truths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe novel begins with the stark and poignant observations of Karl Ove as he reminisces about his early years. He vividly recalls his childhood in Norway, marked by his infatuation with rock music and his complex relationships with his parents. His mother is loving yet almost invisible, while his father is distant and unpredictable. This intricate family dynamic lays the groundwork for the emotional turmoil that ensues when tragedy strikes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKnausgaard's father passes away unexpectedly, leaving the family reeling in a state of bewilderment and grief. The author plunges into a deep and unflinching examination of his sorrow, grappling with the loss of a man who was both a formidable presence and an enigma in his life. This personal crisis also offers a chance for Knausgaard to reflect on his role as a father, balancing the demands of raising his own young family with a relentless pursuit of literary greatness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe narrative's profound emotional depth is matched by Knausgaard's meticulous and evocative prose, making \u003cem\u003eA Death in the Family\u003c\/em\u003e a work of striking intensity and authenticity. The author's candid storytelling allows readers to experience the intricate tapestry of his thoughts and emotions, creating a powerful connection between the author and his audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDistinguished by its brilliant observations and deeply human insights, \u003cem\u003eA Death in the Family\u003c\/em\u003e is not just a memoir; it is a universal story that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of family life and the pain of losing a loved one. 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Through his unique lens of magical realism and profound storytelling, Murakami explores the deep psychological and emotional reverberations that linger long after the physical tremors have subsided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe economy was booming. People had more money than they knew what to do with. And then the earthquake struck. For the characters in Murakami's latest short-story collection, the Kobe earthquake is an echo from a past they buried long ago. Komura's wife is glued to the TV, watching heart-wrenching images of flames, smoke, and toppled buildings, a hellish landscape that's impossible to turn away from. Her fixation highlights the pervasive anxiety and unsettled emotions that grip those indirectly touched by the disaster.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSatsuki has spent thirty years consumed by hatred for the man who destroyed her chances of having children. 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The amphibian, known simply as Frog, claims to be on a mission to save Tokyo from an impending disaster at the hands of a colossal burrowing worm. \"When he gets angry, he causes earthquakes,\" says Frog. \"And right now he is very, very angry.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith his trademark blend of the extraordinary and the mundane, Murakami crafts a tapestry of narratives that probe the impact of trauma and the often unnoticed connections between personal and collective suffering. 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Raskolnikov's journey is a labyrinth of moral dilemmas and harrowing decisions, where he believes himself to be above conventional moral laws, comparing himself to great men like Napoleon. This psychological thriller delves deep into his internal conflicts as Raskolnikov navigates the treacherous waters of his guilt and the inevitability of his own conscience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe novel presents a gripping narrative as Raskolnikov entangles himself in a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse with Porfiry Petrovich, a shrewd and relentless detective who suspects him of the crime. The tension between the two unfolds brilliantly, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. 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