As we grow older, we grow more detached from the world, often without choice. However, Manchester tackles issues of isolation and the generational gap with its community programmes, sparking life back into the retirement years.

A long break from uni is both a gift and a curse. Finally, we get a moment to breathe, to switch off, and relax. But, this only makes coming back to uni in January harder. Lifestyle discusses the trials and tribulations of switching on your ‘university brain’

The winter blues can sometimes make homesickness unbearable. Stay connected with those at home with our creative gift exchange idea: book annotations

So your parents are down visiting in Manchester, and you’ve got no idea where to go: no need to worry with our Parents Guide to Manchester

Growing up black and Irish is an unspoken struggle at times – yet being Irish goes beyond race

Escape to Massachusetts through the eyes of a Masshole. The state is rich with history, nature, and student debt

Drawing on Colombian folklore, Tarumama is a surreal and at times poignant horror drama about a feuding family

Even though it has two iconic actresses at the centre, Hillbilly Elegy is unable to engage with the big ideas at its centre due to dull writing and bad characterisation

Books Editor Shaheena discusses the dynamic between romance and solitude in One Hundred Years of Solitude

Lilly Rosenberg reflects on her year with no social media and explains why she no longer feels guilty about her scrolling habits

Writer Hanya Hesham writes about how important social media has been to stay in contact with family whilst at university

In the long-awaited sequel to our Mancunian Guide, we asked our writers to pick their favourite festive films — all you have to do is trust them

Tara Bharadi reviews Nigel Slater’s autobiographical play, Toast

Eva Gerretsen discusses why today’s youth are so opposed to New Year resolutions, and some alternatives that could help us to be less self-centred

Anuli Changa talks to comdeian Ken Cheng about his first UK tour and his comedic experience

Victoria Evans speaks about Hanukkah, and the importance of remembering other cultural traditions during the Christmas period.

Anuli Changa reviews Children’s Touring Partnership and Royal & Derngate, Northampton’s production of The Jungle Book