as for me, Lao She (老舍) is the best for beginners

Thank you for your comment. I have structured classes twice a week and I also speak Chinese every day with my colleagues at work along with anyone who has the time and interest in chatting, I live in China you see! My question here is purely to enquire about books, no one seems to be able to recommend any actual real books, only teaching material or graded readers. I don't want more study material, I want something real. Perhaps I should rephrase the question- what were you favourite books when you were younger? What was your first favourite book?

By reading books you will increase your vocabulary, but you will lack the day to day conversation skills needed, my advice to you is to read a lot of books, preferably audio books and combine it with practice, it shouldn't be hard to find a language partner here. 20% books and 80% practice would be the best approach for you if you ask me.

There have been a few series of course books at www.hanban.org for free download, but they are not available any more. Otherwise, you may go to some website that offer free courses or teaching material for Chinese language.