Anna Funder — Bears out there, writing in the age of bots and broligarchs

This book preserves Maharaj's dialogues with followers from around the world who sought his guidance in destroying false identities. His sole concern was with human suffering and the ending of suffering. Maharaj taught that the mind must recognize and penetrate its own state of being, breaking the mind's false identification with the ego, and knowing that 'You are already That'. His discussions are direct, provocative, and profoundly simple, aiming to guide individuals to an understanding of their true nature and the timelessness of being.

Published in 1945, 'Animal Farm' is a novella that allegorically represents the Russian Revolution and the subsequent rise of Stalinism. The story begins with Old Major, a boar, inspiring the animals of Manor Farm to rebel against their human oppressor, Mr. Jones. After the rebellion, the animals rename the farm 'Animal Farm' and establish a utopian society based on the principles of equality and solidarity, known as Animalism. However, as time passes, the pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, consolidate power and gradually corrupt the original ideals, leading to a dystopian regime that mirrors the oppressive human rule they initially rebelled against. The novel critiques totalitarianism and the corrupting nature of power, reflecting Orwell's experiences and views on the Soviet Union under Stalin's rule.

This book delves into the story of Eileen O’Shaughnessy, the wife of George Orwell, using newly discovered letters to recreate their marriage. Eileen, a writer herself, significantly influenced Orwell’s work and saved his life with her practical common sense. The book questions what it takes to be a writer and a wife, providing an intimate view of one of the most important literary marriages of the 20th century. It speaks to both the past and the present, celebrating the unsung work of women everywhere.

In 'The Bonobo and the Atheist', Frans de Waal argues that human morality is not imposed from above but rather comes from within, rooted in evolutionary biology. He explores the social behaviors of primates, particularly bonobos and chimpanzees, to demonstrate that empathy, cooperation, and fairness are fundamental to our moral instincts, predating religious influences. De Waal advocates for a humanist perspective on morality, emphasizing our shared evolutionary heritage and capacity for empathy and cooperation.

The novel tells the story of Estha and Rahel, fraternal twins whose lives are shaped by the 'Love Laws' and the societal norms of 1960s Kerala, India. The story is intertwined with the past and present, exploring the complex family dynamics, the lingering effects of casteism, and the impact of British colonialism. The narrative is characterized by its non-sequential style, reflecting the process of memory and the resurfacing of painful memories. The book is a poignant exploration of the loss of innocence, societal injustices, and the universal human tragedy of unfulfilled dreams.

Stasiland is a non-fiction book that delves into the personal stories of individuals affected by the Stasi, the secret police of East Germany. Through interviews and meticulous research, Anna Funder unveils the pervasive surveillance and psychological manipulation that characterized life under the communist regime. The book explores the lives of both victims and perpetrators, revealing the lasting impact of the Stasi on their identities and relationships. Funder's narrative captures the atmosphere of fear and suspicion that permeated East German society, while also highlighting acts of resistance and resilience. Stasiland serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of individual freedom and the dangers of totalitarianism. It also questions the cost of surveillance, and the nature of a society built on fear.