Books to transport you home this Christmas

There’s no place like home. But with many Derry and Strabane diaspora unable to travel back this Christmas, Jenni Doherty of Little Acorns Bookstore shares her pick of 2020’s local books to enjoy from wherever you are in the world.

The Liar’s Daughter, by Claire Allan (£7.99) – Derry journalist and author Claire Allan is back with another gripping thriller, this time about family, grief, and secrets.

Erin’s Diary: An Official Derry Girls Book, by Lisa McGee (£16.99) – This official tie-in with the hit Channel 4 sitcom contains newspaper clippings, poetry, school reports and more. A treat for Derry Girls fans awaiting a third series!

Tennis Lessons, by Susannah Dickey (£14.99) – Susannah Dickey, who grew up in Derry, has received excellent reviews for this funny and beautiful coming-of-age novel (which, unusually, is written in the second person).

Ulster Fairytales and Legends, by Nicola and Peter Heaney (£13.99) – Nicola Heaney and her father Peter, a retired schoolteacher, have joined forces to create this collection of legends from every country in Ulster. Illustrated by Conor Busuttil.

The Man They Couldn’t Ban: The John Crossan Story, by Richie Kelly (£15) – Former BBC sports broadcaster Richie Kelly documents the colourful career of local Man City and Sunderland star John ‘Jobby’ Crossan.

The Gap Baking Book – Favourite Recipes by the Bakers at Gap Coffee Co (£18) – Recreate the cosiest flavours of home – from scones and shortbread to Guinness bread – with this book from Bridgend’s Gap Coffee Co.