5 must-read books before September comes to an end

As September comes to a close, readers reflect on the books that resonated with them throughout the month. This selection of five must-read books spans history, literary fiction, short stories, and social commentary, exploring themes such as identity, migration, gender, belonging, power, and human dignity. These titles travel across continents and cultures, offering diverse perspectives on what it means to be human.

Humans: A Monstrous History by Surekha Davies delves into humanity's age-old habit of defining others through monsters. Historian of science Davies examines how societies have used monster-making to establish ideas about normality and difference, connecting ancient legends with contemporary debates. The book explores the use of monsters to justify divisions based on race, gender, nationality, and social status, revealing their relevance to modern life.

Davies' work is an ambitious and thought-provoking exploration of what it truly means to be human, prompting readers to reconsider their understanding of humanity.