Books: Spoken word

Friday 15 May 1998 23:02 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

I was surprised to find myself gripped by Simon Singh's Fermat's Last Theorem (HarperCollins, c 3hrs, pounds 8.99). Reader David Rentoul's evident fascination with the conundrum set up by the teasing French mathematician 300 years ago helps, but the real star is Singh, whose book puts across the romance of the discipline and the engaging wit and comradeship of the mathematical community.

Nick Hornby's ear for contemporary dialogue is so acute that it's an added pleasure to hear rather than read his latest novel, About A Boy (HarperCollins, 3hrs, pounds 8.99). What happens when single mother Susie comes up against predatory, cool male Will? Through the catalyst of Susie's lonely 12-year-old son Marcus, Will finds his attitude to life changing profoundly. Convincing and moving.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Books: Spoken word

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering