Summer is here, and so are December’s sizzling book club reads! Whether you’re relaxing at the beach, enjoying a picnic in the park, or gearing up for Christmas, these titles are the perfect companions. From heartfelt memoirs to swoon-worthy romance, gripping crime fiction, and magical fantasy, there’s something for every reader.
Let our charismatic book club hosts, Vic and Lee, guide you through this month’s must-reads. Not only are they perfect for your summer reading list, but they’re also excellent gift ideas to get ahead on your Christmas shopping!
Keep reading to discover our December book club picks and visit QBD in-store or online to get your copy and compare reviews!
Fiction Book of the Year 2024
The Ledge by Christian White
Christian White’s The Ledge has been crowned QBD’s Fiction Book of the Year, and for good reason! This gripping thriller begins with discovering human remains in the forests of regional Victoria, shocking the community and setting a group of old friends on edge. Their long-buried secret from 1999 is on the brink of exposure, dragging them back to a past they’ve tried to forget.
Christian masterfully weaves past and present timelines into a tense, breathless narrative, keeping readers hooked with every twist and turn. As the story unfolds, the stakes rise, leading to an explosive cliffhanger that will leave you reeling.
Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2024
The Voice Inside by John Farnham
The Voice Inside by John Farnham is an intimate and inspiring look into the life of one of Australia’s most beloved musicians. This captivating biography delves deep into Farnham’s journey, revealing the triumphs, challenges, and personal moments that shaped his iconic career.
With a blend of heartfelt anecdotes and fascinating insights, the book captures John’s enduring legacy and the profound impact of his music on generations. Perfect for fans and newcomers alike, The Voice Inside offers a glimpse into the man behind the music, making it a must-read for this November.
Children’s Fiction Book of the Year 2024
The 113th Assistant Librarian by Stuart Wilson
Awarded QBD’s Children’s Fiction Book of the Year, The 113th Assistant Librarian by Stuart Wilson is an enchanting tale of magic, danger, and courage. When Oliver Wormwood lands what seems like a boring library job, he quickly discovers the books hold incredible power—and deadly secrets. On his first day, Oliver witnesses a death, battles terrifying creatures, and meets a puzzling number of cats.
Guided by the mysterious Agatha, he must learn the ropes fast to outlast the 112 assistants before him. Perfect for young adventurers, this thrilling story explores bravery, resilience, and the hidden magic of libraries. Will Oliver survive the dangers of his new job? Dive in to find out!
Ottolenghi: COMFORT by Yotam Ottolenghi & Helen Goh
Ottolenghi: COMFORT by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh is a heartwarming collection of recipes that embodies the power of comfort food.
Known for their vibrant flavours and inventive approach, Ottolenghi and Goh bring their unique twist to classic dishes, turning everyday meals into something truly special. From indulgent bakes and rich stews to light, wholesome fare, each recipe is designed to nurture both body and spirit. Beautifully photographed and thoughtfully organized, COMFORT is as much a visual delight as it is a culinary guide.
Dog Man 13: Big Jim Begins by Dav Pilkey
Dog Man 13: Big Jim Begins brings another hilarious and action-packed adventure from Dav Pilkey!
This time, the spotlight shifts to Big Jim, the unlikely hero who finds himself facing unexpected challenges. With Pilkey’s trademark humor and clever illustrations, the story dives into themes of friendship, redemption, and staying true to oneself, all while keeping readers laughing from start to finish. Fans of the series will love seeing Big Jim step up, and new readers can jump right into the fun. Dog Man 13 is a delightful mix of humor and heart, perfect for young readers and families this December!
