Our top book picks this week: a feminist classic from Egypt is reissued and more

Woman at Point Zero by Nawal El Saadawi

Firdaus narrates a harrowing story about the harassment and oppression she faces at every stage of her life. This reissue of a classic novel from 1975 comes from one of the region’s most influential thinkers. It is based on a true account of a women awaiting execution in a Cairo prison. (Zed Books, October 15)

Public Library and Other Stories by Ali Smith

Why is the written word so powerful? In this collection, Smith bases each story on one book and also castigates the dismantling of the public library system in the UK and beyond. Smith’s How To Be Both won the Costa Novel Award. (Hamish Hamilton, November 5)

Numero Zero by Umberto Eco

A failed and depressed writer is offered a financial offer he can’t refuse – to ghostwrite a memoir. Then he learns that his new employer is convinced that Italian dictator Benito Mussolini did not die in 1945 and it’s all part of a wider Fascist plot. Gripping novel that is part murder mystery, part history. (Harvill Secker, November 5)

Filmish: A Graphic Journey Through Film by Edward Ross

Each chapter of this graphic work looks at the strange and interesting concepts behind our favourite films, such as architecture and language. Quirky journey through cinematic history from the UK-based illustrator. (SelfMadeHero, November 12)

A Simple Story: Dancing for His Life by Leila Guerriero

The Malambo is not just a dance. It is an incredible feat of endurance that inspires fear and awe. Set in Argentina, this follows Rodolfo, a 28-year-old who grew up in poverty but dreams of winning a Malambo competition. (Pushkin Press, November 26)

Proteinaholic: How Our Obsession with Meat Is Killing Us by Garth Davis

Many people are eating more protein, whether to lose or gain weight. Now, an acclaimed US surgeon delivers this critical look at the “protein industry” and argues that overconsumption is actually making people sicker. (HarperOne, November 5)