Recommended books

A Writer's Diary by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Tr. Kenneth Lantz, Quartet pounds 25. The first complete translation of the master's journal: what new work can match it for depth and power? Review by Gabriel Josipovici, 20 August

Deep River by Shusaku Endo, tr. Van C Gessel, Peter Owen, pounds 14.99. A touching description of Japanese tourists on the loose in India, marked by a characteristic religious turmoil. Shortlisted for this year's pounds 10,000 Independent Foreign Fiction Award.

Made in America by Bill Bryson, Secker, pounds 15. Hilarious odyssey through America's language jungle. Review by Pete Davies, 8 July.

None to Accompany Me by Nadine Gordimer, Bloomsbury, pounds 15.99. Gordimer's new novel deals eloquently with both the euphoria and the dull realities of the new South Africa. Review by Briege Duffaud, 17 September.

The Daydreamer by Ian McEwan, Cape, pounds 8.99. A buoyant, funny and affecting account of a magical child at play. Parents beware the Vanishing Cream. Review by Robert Winder, 7th October.