Cory Doctorow – For The Win
(Harper Voyager, £7.99) ***
Aimed especially at young adults, this over-long novel is set in the future. Gamers across the world participate in virtual reality computer games. Virtual gold retails for real money, albeit illicitly. However, the fantasies are for the exploited ‘gold-farmers’ tightly controlled by gaming masters, who use violence to ensure their workforce remains co-operative – until Ashok and her friends begin to rebel. An entertaining read.
Gemma Richards, 32, office worker, Bingley
Anne Bennett – Keep The Home Fires Burning
(Harper Collins, £6.99) ****
Anne Bennett’s family saga follows the fortunes of Bill and Marion Webster, who live in Birmingham with their five children. At the outbreak of the Second World War, Bill signs up as a soldier, plunging the family into poverty. Marion is forced to take in two female lodgers, and to endure the agony of supporting her daughter after a munitions accident, but is buoyed by the cheerfulness of her friendly lodgers.
Rachel Bellerby, 36, writer, Addingham
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