A short but brilliant modern classic, the brevity of which is amply compensated by the thrilling and incomparable Miss Jean Brodie, a schoolmistress very much in her prime who handpicks her favourites and sets them on course for exciting – if not altogether welcoming – futures. Funny, sad, and compelling (and un-put-down-able were it not such a trite thing to say), it’s one of those books that linger long after you’ve finished it, with the added bonus of Maggie Smith ringing in your ears as you read, something the world could do with having more of.