Arts and literature reading guide
Artistic reads to keep you informed and entertained, just like your favourite works of art.
Are you looking for books on art that entertain as well as educate? For philosophy you don’t have to read multiple times to make sense of? Perhaps you just want a funny author to explain to you the rules of grammar, or are hankering for a fun read shedding light on your favourite music, theatre and literature.
Literary Reference Source Plus
Information about thousands of authors and their works across literary disciplines and timeframes for all literary research needs.
Poetry and Short Story Reference Source
Classic & contemporary poems, short stories, biographies & authoritative essays on such topics as poetic forms, movements & techniques.
Gale Literature Resource Center
Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, whatever the genre. Your source for information on literary movements, authors and their works.
NoveList Plus
Find new authors & reading options using your favourite writer, book or genre as a starting point. Your next great read is just clicks away.
Literary Reference Source Plus
Information about thousands of authors and their works across literary disciplines and timeframes for all literary research needs.
Poetry and Short Story Reference Source
Classic & contemporary poems, short stories, biographies & authoritative essays on such topics as poetic forms, movements & techniques.
Gale Literature Resource Center
Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, whatever the genre. Your source for information on literary movements, authors and their works.
NoveList Plus
Find new authors & reading options using your favourite writer, book or genre as a starting point. Your next great read is just clicks away.
Arts and literature reading lists
Reading lists on literature, music, theatre, fashion and film.
Biography - Music
From inspirational to downright dysfunctional, there’s no denying these musicians have lived intriguing lives.
Illustrated Biographies - Artists and Art
Graphic novels focusing on seminal artists and art movements - striking illustrations, unique glimpses into the lives of important artists.
Non-fiction - Fashion
From iconic designers and brands to the devastating environmental effects of fashion - great reads for fans of fashion.
Non-fiction - It's Showtime
Prepare to be dazzled by books about your favourite films, television shows, and theatre.
Non-fiction - Art Appreciation
Find out what motivates and inspires artists. Discover the creative process behind the works and learn how to take time to appreciate them.
Non-fiction - Art Adventures
Take a ripping ride into the art world and discover lost works, frauds, heists and scandals.
Biography - On Authors
Inspiring and illuminating, these literary biographies reveal the person behind the pen.
Non-fiction - Popular Philosophy
Philosophical theories from the ancients to modern day explained in an entertaining and, yes, even humorous, way.
Non-fiction - Language and humour
Uncover the origins of language, learn the reasons behind baffling grammar rules, and be informed and entertained by these language experts.
Non-fiction - Essays
The thoughts and opinions of writers tackling hefty subjects or personal experiences. Great stories, well told and arguments well made.
Non-fiction - New Zealand Essays
Build a picture of 21st century Aotearoa by reading these snapshots of Kiwi living. Essay collections on an eclectic range of subjects.
Non-fiction - Books about books
Meet book store proprietors, fall in love with amazing libraries, and get advice on how and what to read.
Non-fiction - Writers on Writing
Whether you’re fascinated by language and craft, the creative process, or how a writer’s life unfolds, something in this list will appeal.
Illustrated Biographies - Music
Telling the story of musicians through the art of graphic novels is the perfect marriage of art and music.
2025 in books, and Tracking your reading in 2026 📚
What I read in 2025, and how you can track your reading if you want to make it a very booky 2026.
Author talk: Monika Killeen
Jan 8th | 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Join Auckland writer and psychotherapist Monika Killeen to hear about her extraordinary life, and her new book.
Simon Winchester: The Breath of the Gods - Fri 6 March 2026
Mar 6th | 6:00pm - 7:00pm
A WORD event at The Piano with Simon Winchester. His new book brings together history, literature, science, poetry, and engineering.
Chalk Art by the Sea
Jan 22nd | 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Share your creativity in chalk art on the New Brighton Pier in collaboration with Christchurch City Council Parks & Recreation Team.
2025 in books, and Tracking your reading in 2026 📚
What I read in 2025, and how you can track your reading if you want to make it a very booky 2026.
Author talk: Monika Killeen
Jan 8th | 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Join Auckland writer and psychotherapist Monika Killeen to hear about her extraordinary life, and her new book.
Simon Winchester: The Breath of the Gods - Fri 6 March 2026
Mar 6th | 6:00pm - 7:00pm
A WORD event at The Piano with Simon Winchester. His new book brings together history, literature, science, poetry, and engineering.
Chalk Art by the Sea
Jan 22nd | 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Share your creativity in chalk art on the New Brighton Pier in collaboration with Christchurch City Council Parks & Recreation Team.
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Find arts and literature titles in the catalogue
Find arts and literature titles in the catalogue
Music, Philosophy, Theatre and writing titles in the catalogue
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Writing
Resources for people who want to improve their writing and / or get published.
Street Art
Street art is a notable feature of the urban landscape in Christchurch, Find out more about local street art and events.
Fashion
Resources for the dedicated follower of fashion. Find books, magazines and more about fashion, designers, sewing and style.
Māori arts and music
Explore traditional and contemporary Māori arts and music.
Writing
Resources for people who want to improve their writing and / or get published.
Street Art
Street art is a notable feature of the urban landscape in Christchurch, Find out more about local street art and events.
Fashion
Resources for the dedicated follower of fashion. Find books, magazines and more about fashion, designers, sewing and style.
Māori arts and music
Explore traditional and contemporary Māori arts and music.
Find non-fiction on your favourite topic
Whatever kind of non-fiction you're into, find lists, new authors to try, and staff picks.