Latest from Books

Review: Tom Hanks’ debut novel misses the mark

The actor's new book about big-time film-making is too sprawling and affectionate.

Review: Catherine Chidgey’s new novel is a portrait of 80s adolescence

Pet hurtles towards its shocking end like a speeding American muscle car.

Review: Kiwi author’s debuts novel on a woman in the 1645 witch trials

Inspired by history, Margaret Meyer's exploration of community corruption shines.

Lively history of alcohol extols the virtues of social drinking

A punchy, witty, very easy-reading book ponders just why humans crave a drink.

Book extract: The victims of the unvaccinated

Man died after waiting 15 days for treatment as Covid patients took up beds.

The varied finalists in the NZ Book Awards for Children and Young Adults

With a crazy mixed bag of titles, Ann Packer considers who might win.

Haunting account of a friend’s life destroyed by schizophrenia

He was seen as role model for mental illness. Years later he killed his pregnant fiancée.

Author Joe Bennett turns his first three decades into a memoir

The columnist shares anecdotes about his childhood, career and sexuality.

Review: How two spooks and a chip shop owner brokered peace in Northern Ireland

Although UK spies have prominence, there's little doubt chip shop owner is hero of story.