Michael Rosen unveils Uyghur scholar Rahile Dawut as PEN’s Writer of Courage
Renowned author Michael Rosen recently announced Professor Rahile Dawut as the recipient of the prestigious PEN Pinter Prize for her courage and commitment to her work despite facing persecution. The annual prize, named after the legendary playwright Harold Pinter, is awarded to writers who have faced adversity for their beliefs. The award ceremony took place […]
Guest post guidelines: how to submit article to How To Be Books
We are delighted to announce our new guest post initiative for How To Be Books and are actively seeking experts in the field of nonfiction, encompassing genres such as memoir, poetry, biographies, essays, literary nonfiction, self-help, and more. Why would you want to guest post for How To Be Books? We showcase some of the […]
Likewise: Bill Gates-backed Pix AI chatbot recommends books
Likewise, the company renowned for its adept app-based recommendations for books, films, and more, has introduced Pix, an AI chatbot tailored to the world of entertainment. Developed through a strategic blend of Likewise’s proprietary customer data and technology from OpenAI, Pix is designed to offer personalised entertainment suggestions and address queries via text messages, emails, […]
International Day of the Girl Child: 15 empowering books for change
The International Day of the Girl (IDG), observed every 11th of October, stands as a global platform dedicated to advocating for the comprehensive rights of girls worldwide. As we navigate a landscape where movements and actions aim to undermine the rights of girls and women and reverse progress towards gender equality, the impact on girls […]
Spotify audiobooks: a challenge to the publishing world
In a surprising move earlier this month, Spotify expanded its premium subscription offerings to include hundreds of audiobooks. From contemporary releases like Safiya Sinclair’s “How to Say Babylon: A Memoir” to internet sensations such as Jennette McCurdy’s “I’m Glad My Mom Died,” this development has sparked excitement among audio-bibliophiles. However, as Spotify dives headfirst into […]
Books about mental health for World Mental Health Day
It’s World Mental Health Day, hence here are some books from authors who’ve faced challenges themselves.
Alabama flags book because author’s name is ‘Gay’
In a recent incident that highlights the challenges libraries face in curating their collections, a children’s picture book titled “Read Me a Story, Stella” found itself at the centre of controversy at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (HCPL). The cause of the uproar? The author’s last name is ‘Gay,’ leading to concerns of potentially “sexually […]
Mongolian books face ban as part of China’s ‘cultural genocide’
In a troubling episode indicative of China’s strict censorship rules, the world was recently reminded of the country’s relentless efforts to suppress voices that diverge from the official party line. Mongolian literature, long treasured for its rich cultural heritage, has become the latest casualty in Beijing’s campaign to assert control over ethnic Mongolians’ identity. Chinese […]
Baillie Gifford Prize 2023: 6 outstanding books on shortlist
In a thrilling moment for literature enthusiasts worldwide, the coveted Baillie Gifford Prize has unveiled its 2023 shortlist. These six remarkable books are now poised to compete for the prestigious literary honour, as announced by the chair of judges, Frederick Studemann, during a live event at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. The 2023 Baillie Gifford Prize […]
Henley Literary Festival 2023: traumatic memories and future success
The 2023 Henley Literary Festival returned with a flourish from September 30 to October 8, offering a treasure trove of 130 talks, performances, and conversations for both adults and children. This year’s festival featured an impressive lineup of speakers, with many events available for both in-person and online audiences. Renowned figures grace the Henley Literary […]