Don’t let the animal drawings fool or deter you: this is one of the most powerful and unexpected works on the Nazi occupation of Poland you are ever likely to read. Spiegelman does a great job not only documenting his father’s experiences, but showing how they have shaped his behavior ever since, painting a picture of a deeply flawed and sensitive man who is also incredibly brave, and fortuitous in his ability to survive one of the great horrors of the 20th century. Difficult to read, and difficult to put down once you’ve started.

Recommended by Zak