In this inspiring love letter to reading and the life-changing power of literature, 35 writers share their all-time favourite books

In keeping with the first edition, this is a thorough yet concise introduction to Chaucer's language in the original, which does not assume prior knowledge of linguistics or Middle English. This updated, expanded edition features a glossary on Chaucer's words, along with sample quotes, and a section on how to use the Middle English Dictionary.

For nearly two centuries readers all over the world have turned to the great canon of Russian literature. Love and death, war and peace, yes, even crime and punishment; readers across the globe have found in Russian writing a substantial measure of intellectual provocation, aesthetic pleasure, emotional resonance, and personal solace. Why We (Still) Need Russian Literature uses a number of Russian authors, from the familiar names of Tolstoy, Dostoevsky and Chekhov to less widely known writers...