What we’re reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in September

The U.S. government has officially shut down as of Wednesday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing political struggle. With funding exhausted, federal operations are halted, impacting services and employees nationwide. Robert Reich, a former labor secretary, emphasizes that Democrats now have a crucial opportunity to leverage this situation to advocate for their policies. This shutdown not only affects government functionality but also highlights the deepening divisions in American politics, making it a pivotal moment for future negotiations.

The newborn daughter of Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain faced horrific online abuse just hours after her birth, highlighting a disturbing trend of unchecked hatred in the UK. Hussain described the racist and sexist comments as a reflection of a 'dark abyss of hatred and despair' that is allowed to fester in society. This incident underscores the urgent need for action against online harassment, especially targeting vulnerable individuals, and raises questions about the safety and well-being of public figures and their families.

The Guardian's Young Country Diary series is inviting children aged 8-14 to share their experiences with nature this autumn. This initiative not only encourages young writers to express their thoughts and observations but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. By publishing these articles, The Guardian aims to highlight the importance of nature in children's lives and inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect the natural world.

David Beckham's business ventures are thriving, with his company DRJB Holdings reporting a remarkable 44% increase in pre-tax profits, reaching $44.9 million in 2024. This growth is bolstered by new partnerships with brands like Stella Artois and SharkNinja, contributing to Beckham's impressive $23.6 million in dividends last year. This success not only highlights Beckham's business acumen but also underscores the potential for athletes to build lucrative enterprises beyond their sports careers.

The introduction of AI 'actor' Tilly Norwood has ignited significant controversy in Hollywood, drawing sharp criticism from industry insiders and sparking a lively debate among Guardian readers. Many are concerned about the implications of AI in acting, fearing it could undermine the artistry and authenticity of human performers. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the broader ethical and creative challenges posed by the rise of artificial intelligence in entertainment, raising questions about the future of acting and the role of technology in creative fields.

In a reflective piece, Elena Lebedeva shares her experiences from seven years on the frontline in Ukraine, revealing the stark contrast between the chaos of war and the attempts to maintain a semblance of normal life. Her insights challenge the typical portrayals of war seen in movies and news, emphasizing the emotional toll and the everyday struggles faced by those who remain in conflict zones. This perspective is crucial as it humanizes the impact of war, reminding us that behind the headlines are real people navigating their lives amidst turmoil.

The European Union is reportedly contemplating a shift in its policy towards Belarus, as highlighted by The Guardian. This potential rapprochement could signify a significant change in diplomatic relations, which is crucial given the ongoing tensions in the region. Understanding this shift is important as it may impact not only Belarus but also the broader geopolitical landscape in Europe.

The US Department of State has finally released a long-overdue report on global human trafficking, following a Guardian investigation that highlighted a concerning pullback on anti-trafficking initiatives by the Trump administration. This report is crucial as it sheds light on the ongoing issues of human trafficking and the government's commitment to combatting it, especially after previous denials of reduced efforts. The findings could influence future policies and public awareness, making it a significant moment in the fight against this global crisis.

In the latest Football Daily, the discussion revolves around the emotional complexities of modern football, likening it to an emotional vampire that drains enthusiasm. Despite the negativity often associated with the sport, there are moments that rekindle the passion and remind fans why they fell in love with football in the first place. This reflection is particularly relevant as we look ahead to 2025, which is dubbed the Year of the Eagle, suggesting a potential resurgence or transformation in the sport.

In the latest Europa League matches, Nottingham Forest faced Midtjylland, losing 2-3, while Aston Villa secured a solid 2-0 victory against Feyenoord. These results highlight the competitive nature of the tournament and the shifting dynamics of European football, especially with Nottingham Forest's recent relegation to the Conference League. Fans are keen to see how these teams will adapt and perform in their respective leagues moving forward.

As the US government faces a potential shutdown, President Donald Trump has vowed to make cuts to what he calls 'Democrats’ favorite projects' if the deadlock continues. In an interview with OAN, he emphasized his authority to eliminate funding for programs he believes should never have been approved. This situation is significant as it could impact various sectors, including travel and national parks, and reflects ongoing political tensions that could affect everyday Americans.

The recent attack at a Manchester synagogue has left two people dead and three injured, prompting police to name the suspect, Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen. This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns about terrorism and public safety in the UK, as authorities have arrested three others on charges related to preparing acts of terrorism. The incident has shocked the local community and raised questions about security measures in places of worship.

An investigation has revealed that heart surgeon Karen Booth performed surgeries beyond her skill level, leading to multiple patient deaths. This alarming finding raises serious concerns about medical oversight and the standards of care in surgical practices, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to ensure patient safety.

A tragic terrorist attack in Manchester during Yom Kippur has left two people dead and several others injured. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of Jewish communities across the U.K., prompting authorities to enhance police security for congregations nationwide. The attack not only highlights the ongoing threat of violence against religious groups but also underscores the need for vigilance and solidarity in the face of such acts.

In response to the recent attack in Manchester, Prime Minister Starmer has pledged to protect Jewish communities across Britain. He emphasized the need to combat antisemitic hate, a sentiment echoed by the King and various religious leaders and politicians. This commitment is crucial as it highlights the importance of unity and support for marginalized communities during challenging times.