Andrei, another of our pupils just starting S5, has also shared with us his top 5 books that everyone should read and I don’t think I would disgree with any of them!

1. “Proud” compiled by Juno Dawson. A collection of LGBTQ+ short stories, poems and artworks by LGBTQ+ authors, poets and artists. There is truly something for everyone in this book which has a variety of writing styles, genres and diverse characters. My personal favourite being “The Other Team” by Michael Lee Richardson, although I don’t play any sports I can relate to the main character (us both being Scottish and transgender). The book perfectly conveys the fears of many LGBTQ+ youth and combines them with the feel good happy elements that overall make it a wonderful and easy read.

2. “The Art Of Being Normal” by Lisa Williamson. The story of a friendship between two transgender teenagers trying to navigate heartbreak, bullying and all the drama that comes with high school. I loved this book as it is another one that shows the struggles of growing up transgender and for those curious I’m sure it could help give understanding to what it’s like to have to deal with parents who won’t accept you, uneducated friends and family and the transphobia that is exhibited by many peers. Overall, I was a big fan of how different Kate and Leo were but how they still got along with each other and it really made the story that bit more interesting.

3. “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. After Starr witnesses her unarmed best friend Khalil be shot fatally by a police officer her world changes as she has to decide between being safe and silent or to fight for justice for Khalil and his family. Featured on Wordery’s 55 Books To Read Before You Die (alongside many other fantastic books) and described as “An essential read for everyone” by Teen Vogue i could not agree more. Starr’s determination to do right, her bravery and her love for her family make her an inspirational character which really helps make the book so great. Thomas shows the fear and importance of fighting back and speaking up and also the love between family members who stick together no matter what.

4. “Good Omens” by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. The book follows a variety of different characters and their fight to either end or cause the end of the world. If you haven’t read this book then you are missing out. The show, which is very enjoyable, lacks what makes the book so great. The book switches between characters perspectives in chapters yet the style of the chapters make sure you always know which eccentric character’s side of the story you are witnessing in a very unique way that makes the book easy to follow A tremendous read but could we expect much else from such great authors?

5. The DI Callanach series by Helen Fields. For those who love a thriller, this is the perfect series for you. Fields practiced law for 13 years so she certainly knows what she’s talking about making the series that bit more enjoyable. The series follows DI Callanach and DCI Turner as they work with their team to capture very creative and disturbing serial killers rampaging through Edinburgh that leave the reader dying for more. This is a series I managed to absolutely devour within almost a week of getting it, Fields certainly knows how to pace the story perfectly with both the characters personal and work lives. It doesn’t matter where you start in the series, I started with the fourth book myself, as Fields always recaps the reader on the important parts that will come into play later in the book. Although fictional, I would recommend to fans of true crime as Fields incredible writing and gory descriptions make the story feel almost real. Almost