Our top six books this week: one fan’s obsession with tennis legend Roger Federer and more

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Federer and Me: A Story of Obsession by William Skidelsky

It only took one match for Skidelsky to become obsessed with the Swiss tennis master. Part-memoir, part homage to one of the greatest players of all time, this book examines the evolution of modern tennis, the role of beauty in sport and the psychology of fandom. (Yellow Jersey, June 4)

The New Spymasters by Stephen Grey

From the CIA’s Cold War legends to double agents within Al Qaeda, this is a searing history of global espionage. Based on years of research and hundreds of interviews, it reveals how spycraft is changing but also how the human factor and the need spies on the ground endures in the digital era. (Viking, June 4)

The Saffron Road by Christine Toomey

A meeting with a Buddhist nun in India sends one woman on a two-year, 96,000 kilometre journey to learn more about these women who choose a life of spirituality. From the Himalayas through Nepal, Myanmar and Japan, it reveals the daily reality of Buddhist existence and the obstacles nuns face. (Portobello, June 4)

I’m Jack by Mark Blacklock

Experimental work that examines the complex and true story of John Humble, aka the Yorkshire Ripper Hoaxer who fooled the police services and led them on a wild goose chase. Said to be a multi-voice novel about truth, lies and prison, and a love letter to the English city of Sunderland. (Granta Books, June 4)

I Saw a Man by Owen Sheers

When a reporter fails to return from a job in Pakistan, her grief-stricken husband, Michael, develops an apparently healing relationship with their neighbours. But their friendship takes a dark turn one day leading to tragic consequences. Should Michael reveal the truth about what happened? (Faber, June 4)

The Unfortunates by Sophie McManus

Cecilia is the fading matriarch of the once-powerful Somner family, afflicted with a debilitating disease and at odds with the modern world. A sweeping novel about one family’s decline, set against a backdrop of corruption, drug trials, class and power. (Hutchinson, June 4)