Every new year is about starting afresh, turning over a new leaf – but people don’t often think to do that literally. Celebrating the New Year usually comes with its fair share of parties and social events, but there are always those moments spent quietly at home that need something to fill them. Particularly as Cambridge students, moments to just sit and read for pleasure are often few and far between, so why not seize the day when it arises? For bookworms who want a fresh start and are keen to embark on a new chapter, I’d encourage you to turn your metaphors into reality with my New Year’s reading list!

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

An incredible tale of courage, feminism, and writer’s ambition, two women in very different periods of history strive to have their voices heard. In present-day New York, Melina struggles as a female playwright in a prejudiced career. In Shakespearean London, Emilia finds the same. The novel reimagines the life of Emilia Lanier, the first female published poet in Britain, positioning her as a ghostwriter for Shakespeare himself, and in doing so makes us wonder what we can truly know about Renaissance writers. I had to begin with this book as it is one of my all-time favourites – as well as encouraging readers to question what they know about Shakespeare, the novel’s underlying message is to never give up on your dreams. Starting the New Year with that in mind definitely can’t hurt!

We Solve Murders by Richard Osman

Fans of the immensely popular Thursday Murder Club series are in luck, as author Richard Osman’s new crime novel does not disappoint! We no longer find ourselves in the cosy world of Cooper’s Chase; Osman swaps pensioners for parenthood in this perfect blend of warm adventure and high-stakes action. The story follows close protection officer Amy and her retired detective father-in-law as they become entangled in a worldwide murder mystery. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie or Dorothy L. Sayers, this novel reminds us that even in the most dangerous of circumstances, family is everything. For some, arguments over a family meal might sometimes feel as high-octane as being hunted by a murderer, so this novel is the perfect bit of escapism over the New Year period!

The Story Collector by Evie Woods

This is a cosy, whimsical novel that is perfect to read curled up by the fire in January. It has a dual timeline; in 1910, we follow Anna, a young Irish girl helping an American visitor to collect Irish folklore, and Sarah, a present-day American who finds Anna’s diary when visiting Ireland. While not a particularly challenging read, it turns the ordinary into the extraordinary and encourages readers to find the magic in every day – what better message to bring in the new year? Anyone who nurtured a YA fantasy obsession in their teens will find it reignited with this book.

What You Are Looking For is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama, translated by Alison Watts

This collection of Japanese short stories is a heartwarmingly beautiful book all about starting afresh. The stories follow five different people at difficult times in their lives, all unexpectedly finding help in a rather special library. The book reminds us of the importance of looking after ourselves, of taking life’s bumpy moments in our stride and smiling brighter once we’re through them. It is the perfect companion for a rainy day in the first few weeks of the year, reminding readers that the option for a fresh start is always just around the corner. If you enjoy this book, I’d also recommend The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki, translated by Jesse Kirkwood.

Carry On, Jeeves (or any of the Jeeves and Wooster franchise) by P. G. Wodehouse

An absolute classic, what better way to bring in 2026 than by joining cheerful Wooster and his brilliant valet Jeeves on their adventures? This is a hilarious collection of short stories that depict the pair’s life in upper-class 1920s London. They are always filled with warmth, laughter, and misadventures. Jeeves’ fabulous ability to solve any problem serves as a reminder that there is always a solution, and that life is about learning to enjoy whatever comes your way. Reading these stories will ensure that you begin 2026 knowing that everything turns out alright when you’re in it with your friends!

Happy New Year, and happy reading!