Books and reading

Book Lust, her 2003 best selling book, made Seattle librarian Nancy Pearl a rock star among readers and having a librarian action figure modelled in her likeness only added to her popularity. The title of another of her books expresses what for many of us is a crucial part of our reading experience: Now read this.

If you're one of those people who wants to say "Now read this" when they've found a book to love, or you've got opinions on a literary trend or author you're happy to share, try visiting our forums for an open and friendly discussion of books and anything to do with reading.

Here's the librarians' choice – a list of titles we recommend and update every two weeks.

Read more about these topics and join our public discussion forums:

• Banned books – censorship versus freedom of expression 
• Bestsellers – the books everyone's talking about
• Book awards – prize winners from the Man Booker to the Nobel
• Contemporary poetry – looking at today's thriving poetry scene
• Cult fiction – books and writers that have earned a devoted following below the mainstream cultural radar 
• Treasures from the basement – for everyone who loves the old, quirky and almost forgotten books
• Popular non-fiction – big idea books for thinking and learning 
• Travel writing – explore the world from the comfort of your armchair.

• Art and letters – how does art affect you? Write a piece expressing your reaction to a work of art
• Who's your favourite kiwi author? – See which authors have come up in the discussion and have your say in the debate.