Our Writers Recommend...(29/1/21)

BOOK: The Spy and the Traitor by Ben Macintyre

This book tells the story of real-life double agent Colonel Oleg Gordievsky who, at the height of the Cold War, began spying on the Soviet Union for MI6. The book recounts how this son and brother of loyal KGB agents turned to risking his life, as well as those of his wife and children, to pass on crucial information about fellow KGB agents and top secret operations from right inside the Kremlin itself. I am only about one third of the way through this book, however, the parts of Gordievsky’s undercover operations I have already read, from being recruited to MI6 while stationed in Copenhagen, to securing the position of chief of the KGB’s London station, has already left me marvelling at the tactics and methods of post-war era spies. Even in a time when phones and CCTV meant that the average person could go through life relatively un-monitored, it is fascinating to read the lengths to which Gordievsky and his British colleagues had to go to in order to pass on just one piece of information.

Abby Gilchrist

TV SERIES: Back to Life

Available on BBC iPlayer and Netflix.

Back to Life follows a young woman re-adjusting to life in her small hometown after serving an 18 year prison sentence. It is equal parts hilarious and sombre, with a cast of endearing, authentic characters that bring hilarity and realism to the slow revelation of the protagonist's crimes. Back to Life boasts one of the most realistic portrayals of small town life in recent television, and the themes of family, female friendships, forgiveness and scandal make it exceedingly relatable and relevant. The short run time (six thirty-minute episodes), compelling mystery, recognisable characters and emotional core of Back to Life make it an incredibly easy and enjoyable watch.

Kirsten Millar

ARTICLE: 'Studytube and the fetishisation of productivity' - Holly Firmin for Ebb Magazine

https://www.ebb-magazine.com/essays/studytube-and-the-fetishisation-of-productivity

Throughout the last year, it seems as if there has been more pressure than ever to be 'productive'. Endless weeks at home during lockdown caused many to use this new-found time to their advantage, whether that be by creating a small business or learning a new language. However for a lot of people, myself included, this need to be constantly productive has been incredibly overwhelming; it feels as if you are failing if you have not 'achieved' anything with this time. In this article, Firmin discusses the dangers behind the fetishisation of productivity, specifically looking at 'Studytubers' - a branch of Youtubers whose channels focus solely on "study tips" and advice to stay motivated when working - and how they promote this concept. It is an incredibly eye-opening read - even if you don't agree with everything Firmin says, she still brings to light some very valid and interesting points about this topic.

Ellie Williamson

INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT: @glossy_zodiac

No, I don’t really follow or believe in horoscopes, but that doesn’t stop me from relating to a Virgo meme with Rihanna, Blair Waldorf and Zendaya in it. If you’re looking for a light-hearted meme page that makes you turn your phone screen to your friend and say, ‘omg you are SO a badass Rihanna one second and a crying Kim K then next’, then I fully recommend this. 

Abby Gilchrist