January and February 2019 Highlights

Democracy Works explores how we can learn to nurture and deepen democracy in Africa to ensure economic growth and political stability. It identifies a ‘democratic playbook’ to meet the threats to free and fair elections. But substantive democracy demands more than simply regular polls. Democracy is fundamentally about the inner working of institutions, the rule of law, separation of powers, checks and balances, and leadership in government and civil society, as much as it is about values and the welfare and well-being of its citizens. It also demands that local leadership has a plan for the country beyond simply winning the popular vote.

Democracy Works is directed toward leaders and citizens who want to address the extreme demographic and other challenges that Africa faces.

Twenty-six years is a long time not to be alive.

Since The Accident that ruined her life, Catherine has lived on autopilot, going through the motions of work and motherhood without being fully present. Trying to fill the gap, her adult daughter, Julia, is looking for love in all the wrong places, and wreaking havoc on the lives that she touches along the way.

Just what will it take to shock Catherine back into life?

From 2015–2017 Children's Laureate and beloved author and illustrator Chris Riddell, 100 Hugs is a beautiful collection of illustrated hugs – from the owl embracing the pussycat, to two cuddling otters.

This is the perfect gift for a loved one, or to cheer yourself up on a dark day when all you need is a hug.

The one hundred beautiful and intricate illustrations from the three-times winner of the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal includes a hug for every emotion and occasion, sprinkled with quotes on the beauty of love and friendship. As you look through these drawings, each one is sure to touch your heart.

In a perfect pocket-sized format, 100 Hugs is certain to comfort and raise a smile. From the author of many treasured books, including Ottoline, Goth Girl and Once Upon a Wild Wood.

“A gem.” – Telegraph

“Filled with warmth and humour, this short novel would suit children aged nine and over.” – Guardian

“Sweet, funny and heartwarming ... absolutely worth a read.” – Glasgow Herald

Clownfish is a moving and stunningly original story of friendship and life after loss, from the award-winning author Alan Durant. Dak's dad has been dead for seven days when suddenly he reappears. He's the same in almost every way, with one startling exception: Dad has turned into a clownfish, and now lives in a tank at their local aquarium.

Dak is delighted by the news – he has Dad back, even if he isn't quite as he was before. Deciding to keep Dad's transformation a secret, Dak visits him at the aquarium as often as he can, and ends up spending so much time there that they offer him a job. This is how he comes to meet Violet, the owner's prickly but kindhearted niece; when the aquarium is threatened with closure, the pair must work together to save it.

For Dak, the stakes couldn't be higher … after all, if the aquarium shuts down, what will happen to the fish? In parts wry, moving and undoubtedly strange, this beautifully crafted story will stay with you long after the final page.

As featured in the Reading Well Books on Prescription programme, supported by professional health bodies including NHS England and the Royal College of GPs.