Best books… Richard Holmes The biographer chooses five ...

Zoe West shares her favourite picks for the week

As a child reading was my refuge from a difficult time. I could read from a very early age and being able to escape into the pages of a book had a huge impact on my life. Swallows & Amazons by Arthur

Laura Jackson, entrepreneur and co-founder of Glassette, reveals the things she loves

Reviews of four tomes ideal for your coffee table – and for perusing during holiday downtime

Our books editor Zoe West’s favourite picks for the month