Winter Reading List
The Windsor's Journal
Ah, winter. A season that calls us to reflect, breathe deeply, and discover life’s quiet joys. As you settle into the warmth of The Windsor, there is no better way to enrich your stay than by immersing yourself in the written word. Whether you relax in one of the cosy nooks around the hotel or step outside into a sun-dappled spot with a crisp breeze, you’re never far from a place to unwind.
Take a glimpse at our winter reading list — an eclectic collection designed to entice, soothe, and captivate.
The Wall by Marlen Haushofer
Genre: Literary Fiction, Dystopian
The Wall explores solitude with such delicate mastery, drawing readers into a world where isolation become both a burden and a means of self-reflection.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it chronicles the life of the last surviving human on earth, an ordinary middle-aged woman trapped behind a mysterious barrier. If you are drawn to quiet, philosophical narratives about what it means to live, survive, and find meaning in a changing world, The Wall is a captivating companion for moments of solitude and self-discovery.
Madonna in a Fur Coat by Sabahattin Ali
Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance
Emotionally poignant and intensely atmospheric, Madonna in a Fur Coat is a bestselling Turkish novel that delves into the complexities of love, longing, and human connection.
Set in 1920s Berlin, it follows a shy young man who leaves his rural Turkish home for the city's vibrant arts scene and dim cabarets, where he meets a woman whose presence will haunt him forever. Exploring themes of isolation, identity, and transformation, the novel captures the intense, often contradictory emotions of love—a story that lingers long after you have finished the last page.
Wrong Norma by Anne Carson
Genre: Poetry, Contemporary Literature
For those with a taste for poetry, Wrong Norma delves into themes of identity, memory, and the fluidity of human experience with sharp wit and lyrical grace. This unique collection is perfect for readers who appreciate fragmented, thought-provoking poetry that challenges the conventions of form and explores the complexities of self-perception. A must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of myth, identity, and emotional truth.
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
Genre: Classic Philosophy, Stoicism
There is a timeless quality to Meditations, a work that has anchored many in the pursuit of wisdom and tranquillity. In this Stoic classic, Marcus Aurelius offers profound reflections on self-discipline, virtue, and tranquillity, providing quiet counsel on living a purposeful life, especially in the face of adversity. If you are seeking practical wisdom and a steady compass to navigate life’s challenges with grace and fortitude, this book will serve as an indispensable guide on your journey.
The Use of Photography by Annie Ernaux
Genre: Essays, Photography, Nonfiction
In this introspective essay, Annie Ernaux reflects on the subtle yet powerful relationship we have with photographs — how they preserve not just our past but the complexities of our identity. Her writing invites a quiet contemplation of memory, time, and the way we frame our own stories. For those who enjoy exploring the layers of meaning behind life’s fleeting moments, this is a truly remarkable read delves deep into our identity and sense of self.
Should any of these titles capture your interest, a visit to our dear friends at Paperback Bookshop is a must. Just a leisurely 3-minute walk from The Windsor, this well-kept secret is a trove of literary treasures. Whether you're in the mood for a beloved classic or yearning to discover something new, take a moment to wander their shelves. It’s where we always find a new companion in the pages of a book, and no doubt you will, too.