Let’s do some algebra. We’re solving for X: the perfect book recommendation for your dear friend. Variable A is their last literary obsession. Variable B is what they need in their life right now, either practically or metaphorically. Add values A and B, and don’t forget to subtract C (titles they already read). Do you have the answer?

If you said no, you’re in good company. Finding a great read for your bookworm bestie’s upcoming birthday seems like it could be solved by a simple equation. But after a whole afternoon of browsing shelves and scrolling bookish influencers’ posts, the quest feels a bit like doing homework. Speaking of homework, don’t forget your big exam is coming up. It’s your turn to pick next month’s read for book club. There are no grades, but there’s certainly expectation.

We can’t do your homework for you, but you can copy our answers. We won’t tell. Check out our study guide of recommendations for all the variables of readers. We did our research and cited our sources. If you want to check our work, borrow these titles from the Libby app for free. After all, reading the texts is the real cheat sheet for a perfect score.

Theory & Practice by Michelle de Kretser
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend who collects all the award-winners – this year’s Stella Prize winner was just announced on Friday the 23rd.

Politica by Yumna Kassab
🎧 Audiobook

For the friends who need to feel human when they can’t feel peace.

One Hundred Years of Betty by Debra Oswald
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend who’s looking to be inspired.

Sex Magick by Nicholas Brown

For the friend who frequents the theatre.

A Language of Limbs by Dylin Hardcastle
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend who needs a new favourite sapphic novel worthy of obsession.

Making Things by Erin Boyle

For the friend who acquires hobbies like badges of honour.

Three Wild Dogs by Markus Zusak
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend whose heart melts for every rescue dog.

Welcome to Country by Aunty Joy Murphy and Lisa Kennedy

For the friend who wants to teach the newest generation about their elders and origins.

Lyrebird by Jane Caro
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend who loves to be kept in suspense.

Thirst for Salt by Madeleine Lucas
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend who never forgot their summer love.

The Sunbird by Sara Haddad

For the friend who knows how it feels to just want to go home.

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

For the friend turning 40 this year — this modern classic shares their birthday.

Orbital by Samantha Harvey
🎧 Audiobook

For the friend who’s always staring off into space.

Cherrywood by Jock Serong

For the friend who loved Cloud Atlas and The Overstory.

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