The book at warChairman Mao was a librarian. Stalin was a published poet. Evelyn Waugh served as a commando before leaving to write Brideshead Revisited. Since the advent of modern warfare, books have all too often found themselves on the frontline. In 'The Book at War', acclaimed historian Andrew Pettegree traces the surprising ways in which written culture from travel guides and scientific papers to Biggles and Anne Frank has shaped, and been shaped, by the

all Charlie wants is to bring his family together again

politics and parenthood

But he had pluck

he begins to wonder whether his purpose lies in this new relationship

The Wishing-Chair takes them on some wonderful adventures - to a giant's castle to rescue a new pixie friend

aging far more gracefully than the fractious nation over which she so lightly presides

or to walk alone at night without fear

the Cat and the Dreadful Teddy)

and darkness that fueled his imagination

A Spectator Best Book of the Year

but find its extent is greater than they ever could have imagined

Alone on an island