If there’s one thing we all need in Hong Kong, it’s a good book to read to escape the hectic life we all lead here! So, to save you trawling the shelves of your local bookshop, we’ve rounded up 10 new, notable and upcoming good reads, recommended by the team at Bookazine.
Unleashed
Boris Johnson
Despite winning the largest Tory majority for over 30 years in 2019 with a mandate to “Get Brexit Done”, Johnson’s administration was undermined by COVID and a Tory revolt. This unconventional memoir offers an honest and revealing look at his political life.
A Field Guide to the Snakes of Hong Kong (2nd edition)
Adam Francis
Francis dedicated nearly three years to locating, photographing and documenting Hong Kong’s snakes for this guide, which allows readers to easily identify and learn about the region’s diverse species.
The (Unlikely) Hong Konger
Sophia Hotung
This illustrated, autobiographical exploration of chronic illness, identity and the complexities of being a young Eurasian woman in Hong Kong features original artworks by the author, and an uplifting narrative about discovering contentment through creativity and self-acceptance.
Taylor Swift Style: Fashion Through the Eras
Sarah Chapelle
In her blog, Taylor Swift Style, Chapelle has spent over a decade documenting the megastar’s fashion choices and their intentions. Her analyses of songs, lyrics, and behind the-scenes insights reveal a woman with a clear vision.
Her Lotus Year (Signed Bookplate Edition)
Paul French
This is the untold episode of the year spent in China by Wallis Simpson, a woman often maligned by history. Simpson called it her “Lotus Year”, inspired by Homer’s Lotus Eaters, who lived in dreamy forgetfulness. The friendships she forged would later be used against her by the British Establishment.
Big Bites Break Boundaries
Stephanie Ng
Having navigated an eating disorder in her teens in Hong Kong, mental health advocate Steph Ng knows how it feels to be voiceless in an environment that frowns upon open discussions of mental illness. This is not a story of triumph from challenge, but a celebration of the inherent messiness of being human.
The City and Its Uncertain Walls
Haruki Murakami
When a young man’s girlfriend mysteriously vanishes, he seeks the imaginary city where her true self lives – a realm of horned beasts and willow trees. He finds her in a dream library, but she has no memory of their past. As reality and fantasy blur, he must decide what he’s willing to sacrifice.
Where’s the Christmas Elf?
Ladybird
Celebrate Christmas with this magical search-and-find activity book! Explore Santa’s workshop, a Christmas market, and a winter fair to find the hidden elf, along with wrapped presents, stuffed stockings, waddling penguins and sparkling stars.
The Ball Inside of Us
Candice Kwok
This book aims to help children recognise that they are worthy and complete just as they are. It teaches self-worth and self compassion, emphasising unconditional self-love, and reminding children they’re not defined by achievements, mistakes or opinions. Guinness World Records 2025 After 70 years, it’s time to open the next chapter of record-breaking! This year’s edition of Guinness World Records is packed with more fascinating facts and feats for the whole family. Discover how record-breaking has evolved and get a glimpse of what incredible looks like in 2025!
This article about good books to read by Bookazine first appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
Find these titles and more good books to read on the Bookazine website.
