Staff Picks

August 2024 Picks:

Peggy recommends:

Joan Baez I Am a Noise DVD

The summer I was 12 years-old, I babysat for a family who didn’t have a TV nor a radio. All they had was a mono record player and 3 albums. One album was Peter, Paul & Mary, another was the Highwaymen. But, the third, the third was my favorite, Joan Baez in Concert (pt.2). We (the kids and I) listened to it over and over and over again, all summer long. My 12-year-old self didn’t know much about the Civil Rights movement at the time but her rendition of We Shall Overcome changed me and my soon to be teen angst was hooked.

I have loved Joan Baez most of my life and didn’t think I could love her anymore. But, this fantastic bio of her life, once again, had me hooked and I found I could love her more! If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend you check it out.

A Sharp Solitude by Christine Carbo

In A Sharp Solitude, a journalist has been killed and time is running out for FBI agent, Ali Paige, to prove her ex and father of her young child, is innocent.

I discovered this author when I was planning a trip to Glacier National Park. Her books are set in and around the park, giving the reader a true sense of experiencing the park without actually being there. If you like C J Box or Nevada Barr, you will enjoy Christine Carbo’s books.

Valerie recommends:

Red Rising by Pierce Brown

Red Rising is the first book in a dystopian science fiction series set on a futuristic Mars. The main character, Darrow, has been galvanized into rebellion against the caste system that resulted in the death of someone close to him. Darrow undergoes drastic changes in order to infiltrate the ruling class and end the tyranny of the corrupted ruler. I especially loved listening to the audiobook of this series because of the action sequences and the emotionality of the narrator during scenes of struggle and friendship.

Sarah recommends:

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Mexican Gothic is a gothic horror novel about a wealthy debutante in Mexico City named Noemí Taboada who receives a letter from her cousin begging for her help as she believes her English husband is trying to kill her. Noemi makes the journey to the the Mexican countryside where the couple lives in his family home. The home has a strange and unsettling atmosphere and the longer she stays there, the more she disturbing truths she uncovers about the family.

I absolutely devoured this book after a long reading slump and the mix of horror and mystery made it such an interesting and engaging read. The setting is ominous, the twists are unexpected, and I found myself unable to put it down. If anyone is looking for a horror novel that isn’t too graphic or brutal, this is a great pick.

July 2024 Picks:

Sarah recommends:

Haikyu!! Volume 1 by Haruichi Furudate

This manga series follows a teenager in Japan named Shoyo Hinata who falls in love with volleyball after seeing a high school tournament on TV in middle school. He doesn’t have the height that most players have, but he’s determined to play regardless and he finally gets his chance when he starts at Karasuno High School.

I love this series because it’s fun and lighthearted while still including meaningful messages about hard work and passion. There is a whole cast of interesting, well-developed characters that you can’t help but root for and their growth throughout the series is a delight to witness. I did not go into this series as a fan of volleyball, but I was when I finished! I’d highly recommend for all ages.

Kim recommends:

Crush by Svetlana Chmakova and 

Not If You Break Up with Me First by G.F. Miller

Both Crush and Not If You Break Up With Me take humorous looks at the complicated interpersonal dynamics of middle school, from peer pressure to friendship to dating, especially various forms of communication and miscommunication.  In Chmakova’s graphic novel (Book Three in a series but it works well as a stand-alone), Jorge is a big, tough, but considerate boy, who uses his strength for good, earning him the nickname of “Sheriff.”  However, he is very quiet, especially around his crush.  Miller’s novel alternates between the third-person perspectives of best friends Eve and Andrew, who are pressured into becoming a couple and then find themselves scheming to each get the other one to dump them.  In both stories, friends, enemies, and frenemies make everything more difficult, especially when they’re trying to help.

Chmakova and Miller in their different ways explore all the mishaps and eventual resolutions with surprising depth, while keeping the characters relatable, even as we wish we could save them from impending disasters.  Both books are funny, although Chmakova’s humor is generally gentler.  (Miller’s book would actually make a great graphic novel, too, and I can see either story as a movie, or short-run television series.)  Jorge, his crush Jazmine, Eve, and Andrew all get happy endings (as do some of the supporting characters), but not necessarily the happy endings they’re expecting.

These books are recommended for ages 10 and up.

Valerie recommends:

A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

El Higgins is a student of the Scholomance, a school for sorcerers seeking to become a part of an Enclave. The Scholomance is a wicked place full of maleficaria who love to eat young sorcerers. El is trying her best to disprove the prophecy her grandmother made of her when she was a child. She doesn’t want to be evil, but her power seems to only thrive on destruction. As she navigates her junior year, she befriends someone wholly unexpected: the golden hero of the school, Orion Lake.

I loved A Deadly Education because it felt like a more grown up, scary version of Harry Potter. Novik does a great job of making the Scholomance feel like a character of its own.

Peggy recommends:

The Comfort of Ghosts by Jacqueline Winspear

In the final installment of the Maisie Dobbs series, Winspear wraps up past storylines while solving the mystery of the five house squatters and a long held secret. The Comfort of Ghosts is a lovely ending for a well-loved series.

 

 

You Like it Darker by Stephen King

“You like it darker? You got it.” When it comes to thrills and chills, King is the king and this set of twelve short stories does not disappoint.

 

 

Marina recommends:

The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

First, I fell in love with the movie as a child only to discover and fall more in love with the novel as a teen. While this may seem like a children’s story about unicorns-a beautiful fairytale full of whimsy, humor, adventure, and magic- it also leans into more mature themes. The symbolism is strong- the loss of innocence and imagination as we face the realities of the world around us to the rediscovery of hope and the power of imagination. The Last Unicorn falls in that same unique, memorable, and quotable category as The Princess Bride and Stardust.

June 2024 Picks:

Sophie (student volunteer) recommends:

Irena’s Children: the extraordinary story of the woman who saved 2,500 children from the Warsaw ghetto by Tilar J. Mazzeo

Irena’s Children depicts the before and during WW2 with closely accurate dates and settings. The “Angel of Warsaw”, Irena Sendler, watches as imposing new rules catered only to Jewish people appear. As dangers arise for Jewish people, Irena plans with underground forces to save the lives of Jewish children by getting them out of the country and giving them new names.

Kim recommends:

Opposable Thumbs is a quick, fun but sometimes moving and/or thought-provoking read.  Singer aptly traces the duo’s journey from rival movie reviewers in newspapers to reluctant co-hosts on a local Chicago public TV station, into syndication and beyond, including memorable talk show appearances.  Roger (Ebert) and Gene (Siskel) also went from hating each other to bickering in a brotherly way.  They remained individuals but were more memorable as a team.
I started watching them on their PBS series Sneak Previews when I wasn’t yet a teenager (early ’80s) and stuck with them until a few years before Gene’s too-soon death of cancer in 1999.  Roger would also die of cancer, fourteen years later.  Their deaths saddened me, but I had taped several episodes of their show at the time (and I still have a working VCR), and many more episodes are available online, so that softened the loss.  I read Opposable Thumbs as an eBook, and it includes links to S&E on YouTube and elsewhere, so in this case I recommend that over the print book.  Their most memorable arguments (and they could argue about anything, even about what they were arguing about) are still very entertaining, as are the times that they heartily agreed about how good or how bad some movies were.
As for the subtitle, I’m not sure if Singer makes a convincing case of “forever.”  S&E did change movies, including how studios promote new releases, but things have changed further since Roger’s death, and of course much more since Gene’s, for movies, the Internet, and society in general.  Still, I strongly recommend this book to those who care about movies, especially those who remember Siskel & Ebert fondly.  And, yes, I’m giving two thumbs up.

 

Peggy recommends:

Mexican food for vegans! Yes! And not just any Mexican food, but the best! This book is full of everyone’s favorite authentic Mexican food recipes adapted for plant-based lifestyles. Some of my favorites are Al Pastor Madre Tacos (with Mushroom Pastor, yum!), Mushroom Fajitas, Enchiladas Verdes and, of course, the Cashew Crema. Delicious!

A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick (this month’s Adult Book Group selection)

I probably recommended this book here a while back, but I’ll do it again, it’s that good. Set at the turn of the century, A Reliable Wife is about Ralph Truitt, a wealthy, lonely business man who places an ad for a “reliable wife” in a Chicago newspaper. When Catherine Land, his prospective bride, steps off the train, Ralph is instantly upset, for she is not the same woman as the one in the photographs. Thus begins a tale where murder, betrayal, violence, and revenge lurk in the heart of each character’s motivations.

A Reliable Wife is one of those rare novels I had a hard time putting down. It’s a little older (2009) and I first read it during my bookstore days. I went on to sell about a hundred copies single-handedly after reading it, it was that good.  I hope you think so, too.

Vicki recommends:

The Renaissance Soul: Life Design for People with Too Many Passions to Pick Just One by Margaret Lobenstine

Woohoo! Finally, a book I can throw at hypothetical people when they question my life choices and lack of retirement savings. You know, those same hypothetical people I am winning brilliant Ted Talk level arguments against in the shower. Turns out maybe I don’t have unmanaged ADHD; I’m actually a Benjamin Franklin level genius. Oh wait, the third chapter explains that you can have ADHD and be a Benjamin Franklin and that you also can be a Renaissance Soul without neurodivergence. Likewise, you can have ADHD and be a Mozart – the other end of the spectrum, someone who picks one thing, early on, and sticks with it for the rest of their life. I’m getting hives just writing that. The Renaissance Soul is basically a self-esteem boosting, life-affirming, strategy- providing encouragement letter to those of us who have lots, and lots… and lots of varied interests. Did you also write in your 8th grade yearbook that you wanted to be a doctor, lawyer, Broadway actress and barista at Starbucks (it was the early 90s)? Then this book is for you.

The House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul

I am a massive RuPaul fan and have read all of his books (also in the library system) – Lettin’ it All Hang Out and GuRU, watched every season of Drag Race and Drag Race All Stars, watched his episode on Finding Your Roots (Season 6 – also in the library system) and am always lying ravenously in wait for his next production. The House of Hidden Meanings is RuPaul refined – telling his story of growing up in San Diego, a wild youth in Atlanta and a young adulthood in New York to become the living legend he is today, with a mature author’s voice missing from his previous memoirs. The message is consistent with his other books – LOVE is the answer, love yourself enough to be who you really are, and don’t take life too seriously, however Hidden Meanings really hones in on the absolute tenacity required to believe in your dreams no matter what the circumstances. RuPaul didn’t just believe, he KNEW that he was going to become a star- and not just a rock star, but a multifaceted superstar of the world and empire builder. And that’s exactly what he did! Yes, he faced challenges and adversity, loneliness and ostracization, substance struggles and depression, but he let all of it fuel his trajectory towards his goal. I’m inspired, as always, by the man, the maestro, the luminary, the culture creator, our queen mother, RuPaul.

May 2024 Picks:

Kim recommends:

My Name Is Barbra by Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand’s autobiography My Name Is Barbra is– like the actress/director/producer/singer/etc. herself– vivid, funny, fascinating, sometimes frustrating, and bigger than life (992 pages).  She tells us in great detail not just of the works she’s created but the meals she’s eaten and the clothes she’s worn (and in some cases designed).  There’s also a lot here about her collaborators, friends, enemies, lovers, two husbands, and the mother that she could never make happy.  There’s surprisingly little about her son, although she’s clearly proud of him.  Some people might find this book overwhelming, yet I enjoyed the richness of the banquet.  But, yes, give yourself time to absorb it all, because it’s definitely not a quick read.

Peggy recommends:

Knife: Meditations after an Attempted Murder by Salman Rushdie

Thirty years after the fatwa was ordered on him, Knife is Rushdie’s detailed recollection of the vicious knife attack that took his right eye and nearly cost him his life. This is a moving account of Rushdie’s recovery, from the attack itself through the healing aftermath. It’s lyrical, it’s thought provoking, and, at times, even amusing.

 

The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

The Berry Pickers, told in the voices of two people, begins with Joe, a six-year-old indigenous boy from Nova Scotia whose 4-year-old sister, Ruthie, disappears while picking berries with her migrant family in Massachusetts. Exhausting all efforts to find her, the family returns to Nova Scotia without her, only to return each year for berry picking season and the endless search for their lost loved one.

The second voice is Norma, a dark skinned young girl kept company by shadows and half memories. As time goes on, Norma grows more and more suspicious of her “family”—a pale-skinned mother who suffers from exhaustion and mental illness, her aunt who helps her navigate her peculiar living arrangements and a father who caters to his frail wife with aloof indifference to his child.

The Berry Pickers is the story of two families, a tale of festering wounds, prejudice, untreated trauma, and the cost of truths concealed.

Amie recommends:

Sipsworth by Simon Van Booy

Helen has given up. Waiting to die, she shuffles along day-to-day, grumpy about not dying until a furry being disrupts her plans and gives her a reason to live. This book is lovely and has made Simon Van Booy my new favorite author. Take that, Cormac McCarthy! AND Mr. Van Booy is adorable! Go check him out right now! Go!

 

Death Knot DVD

This terrifying film about a cursed family in a rural Indonesian town begins with Hari’s mother committing suicide, forcing Hari and his sister to return to their birth home for her funeral. Once there, they learn that the villagers blame their family for all that has gone wrong in the tiny community, shunning them and leaving them to deal with the horror that Hari’s ancestors have aligned with. This film is very intense, but the writer/director/star dedicated it to his late dog and that made my heart happy, and sad.

Nikki recommends:

Shadow and Bone trilogy by Leigh Bardugo

So, I love YA fiction. Always have and always will. Shadow and Bone is an awesome series. The world and the magic within it is fascinating. It’s so entertaining and well-paced that it is one of those books you can sit down and read in one or two sittings and immediately crave more. Luckily, there’s more, and I cannot wait to read them all!

 

Vicki recommends:

(CD & Digital music)

The Age of Pleasure by Janelle Monae

The Omnichord Real Book by Meshell Ndegeocello

Process by Sampha

Come Around and Love Me by Jalen Ngonda

These are four beautiful albums that I will be rocking this summer and I encourage you to do the same! Monae’s 2023 pop/funk/afrobeat, queer, one-person-hit-parade-pleasure-cruise is for the hearty party. Ndegeocello’s 2024 piece de resistance is for those introspective nights gazing at the stars wondering, “How did I get so blessed as to be here now? And when is the mothership gonna come get me?” Sampha’s 2017 debut album is soaked in his unique and lovely vocals and yearning piano and will hold you all the way through a dark night of the soul on the longest day of the year. And finally, Ngonda’s 2023 album is a neo-soul instant classic; with every track a jam, perfect for entertaining, playing all day long and feeling good.

April 2024 Picks:

Nikki recommends:

My recommendation for April is a story about a performing, traveling family with a dark history. If you have a super dark sense of humor, this book is for you. It’s funny, sad, weird and beautiful.

 

 

 Vicki recommends:

I’m Glad My Mom Died – the audiobook written and read by Jennette McCurdy

I bet someone who works at the library has already recommended this book but I am going to recommend it again! Especially in audiobook format, read by the author who is a trained actress and does great voices throughout. It’s funny enough to make the listener laugh out loud and heartbreaking enough that I gasped and yelled, “NO!” multiple times. I had no previous knowledge of the author, a child star on Nickelodeon’s, “iCarly” show; this memoir is about her journey of being forced into the entertainment industry at five by her mother, who died when she was a young adult. I imagine having watched McCurdy grow up on TV would make this memoir even more sensational, but I found it relatable and touching even without prior information. If you ever wanted to do something to make your mom happy, you’ll be able to relate, even though this book takes that desire to the extremes. Themes include: truly horrible moms, the cult of show business, surviving and thriving after child abuse, and finding the humor in dark situations. Content warning for lengthy discussion of eating disorders and recovery.

Kesha – Gag Order (Music CD)

On the theme of young people being exploited by the entertainment industry, I highly recommend Kesha’s new album, “Gag Order.” I have been peripherally aware of Kesha for a while but never liked her music. This album, however, is really, really good. It’s weird, sad, empowering with some dance hits and also some quasi-ambient electronica jams. I loved it. Produced by Rick Rubin, with all the songs written or co-written by Kesha, it marks her last album on Kemosabe records, whom she signed a contract with at 18. She is now 37.  After decades of multiple lawsuits and accusations of sexual assault and harassment against the label’s creator and her former producer, she is finally free – gag order indeed. My criteria for giving an album five out of five stars is that it has to be a cohesive whole story, have multiple stand-out tracks that I would include on a playlist, one dud max, and I need to gush about it to at least one person. This is a 5/5 experience!

John recommends:

The Public Library by Robert Dawson

This book has comments about libraries from many well known authors and a foreword by Bill Moyers.  The book is primarily a pictorial, showing interiors and exteriors of many libraries throughout the United States. Many of the pictures are fascinating, to the point that I read every word in the book. There are quirky little tribute libraries and the book ends with Little Free Libraries, which are essentially a small book cabinet on a post. But the Little  Free Libraries have caught on internationally (there are at least 8 in Fort Bragg). This book is a keeper.

 

March 2024 Picks:

Peggy recommends:

Under the Henfluence : inside the world of backyard chickens and the people who love them by Tove Danovich

A patron recommended this book to me. I don’t know if she knew I had chickens or if she just guessed based on how many feathers were clinging to my clothes. But, either way, she guessed correctly that I would LOVE this book.

Part memoir, part educational, this book is a loving tribute to those of us who obsess over our chickens, often spending more on their care and well-being than our own selves. If you’re a chicken lover or even just a chicken liker, you’ll enjoy this book.

Find a Way by Diana Nyad

After watching the movie, Nyad, with Annette Benning and Jodie Foster, I was intrigued to learn more about Diana Nyad’s life. Although I don’t particularly care for Diana Nyad (contrasting personalities) I am impressed with her drive and the ultimate achievements she’s made. It’s an interesting look into the life of a woman driven from early childhood into a world of extreme athleticism. Find a Way made me think about a way of life that was very different from my own. Well worth the time.

 

Amie recommends:

Murder Your Employer by Rupert Holmes

This book is fun. There’s nothing serious about it and your brain doesn’t hurt reading it. Just a good-old-quick-read-for-when-your-tree-falls-down-in-the-wind-and-catches-the-electrical-wires-on-fire-so-your-electricity-is-out-for-6-days-because-AT&T-hates-being-responsible-for-landlines-and-won’t-come-fix-their-part-of-the-problem. Worth it.

 

Your Guide to Not Getting Murdered in a Quaint English Village by Maureen Johnson

I actually guffawed a few times reading this informative tome at lunch today. Worth it.

 

 

Unwelcome DVD

Decent Irish horror story just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

 

 

Strange Way of Life  DVD

My new boyfriend, Pedro, is lovely in this 31-minute short. Very sad it wasn’t a full feature film, but what can you do?!?

 

 

Vicki recommends:

This juvenile graphic novel is an action packed buddy adventure that kept my attention from beginning to end. A diverse group of young people at boarding school in China have to hack their way out of school, save a tiny dragon from a multi-national pharmaceutical crime operation, contend with a Sea Goddess, and usurp a religious cult vying for world domination. All before dinner! Fun! I am looking forward to #2!

 

This is a book of poetry like no other. Some poems are like reading the equivalent of the surrealist “Exquisite Corpse” game –  playing with words that seem disparate but make a profound and surprising whole. Some poems are complete plays on the auditory meanings of words spelled as their homonyms. I read these out loud and though the collection is dense it is delightful.

 

Nikki recommends:

Wild, Wild West DVD

This movie totally holds up, at least to my nostalgia it does.

 

February 2024 Picks:

Kim recommends:

Fungi Grow by Maria Gianferrari

Fungi Grow is a beautifully illustrated nonfiction book that offers fungal facts in a clear and yet poetic way.  Children as young as three can enjoy the watercolor pictures and the text with larger font.  Smaller, less simple but still approachable text offers more information for kids at old as 9 or 10.  Gianferrari shows that fungus can be deadly but also beneficial, and always interesting.

Peggy recommends:

Distant Sons by Tim Johnston

The long awaited “sequel” to Descent, Distant Sons picks up Sean Courtland years after the traumatic events of his youth. Sean is now a transient carpenter, traveling the country doing odd jobs wherever he lands. When the old Chevy truck breaks down in a small town in Wisconsin, a town full of secrets of its own, Sean finds himself stranded and looking for ways to earn a little money. Soon, he finds himself defending the honor of a local waitress and befriending another transient with secrets of his own. I love this book because the characters all had secrets and pasts they are trying to outrun and each understandably so. I highly recommend all of Tim Johnston’s books, this one especially.

Amie recommends:

Ring Shout by P. Djèlí Clark

Vicki brought this book to my attention; I think it is my new favorite. Set in an alternate past, an alien breed has taken sides with the KKK making a super racist and a super black heroine. It’s spectacular!

 

 

Holdovers DVD

Decent film. I wanted it to be more Dead Poets, but it was fun and sweet and sad enough. Worth the watch. And you never go wrong with Paul Giamatti.

 

 

Way of the Gun DVD

I may have recommended this before, but it’s worth a second recommendation, either way. This film is fantastic. My favorite Benicio del Toro film, and that’s saying a lot. It’s a beautiful gangster/western/robbery-gone-wrong/buddy film that’s violent and heartbreaking. It should’ve won an Oscar, but don’t get me started on Oscars. Angry face.

John recommends:

Jeeves and the King of Clubs by Ben Schott

This book is almost unbelievable as it in some ways is better than the PG Wodehouse books it parodies as a tribute.  One suggestion.  Stay close to a dictionary.  You probably wouldn’t miss very much but learning about the unusual words used is fun.  And for one word you might need the Oxford English Dictionary (the Library has one, make a list).  This book is clever, funny, and engrossing.  It’s a page turner.  Really good news is that when you’ve read this one there is a Zip Book request for the next  book.  We can hope it’s a series.  Enjoy!

January 2024 Picks:

Nik recommends:

The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N.K. Jemisin

The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms is N.K. Jemisin’s first of her three-part Inheritance Trilogy. I enthusiastically enjoyed the pull of reading “just another 5 minutes” as the complicated power dynamics between gods, mortals, and everything in-between create a captivating read that was very hard to put down. Also, grab your dictionary, as Jemisin’s lexicon is just as creative as the mystical realm she creates for the characters.

 

Amie recommends:

There There  by Tommy Orange

This book is too hard to explain. Just read it. For reals. Everyone should read it.

 

 

Selma (DVD)

So, this film is heartbreaking and still so current. In honor of Dr. King, watch it and then come to the library and get some books to learn more and be part of the solution. I will stand right there with you and the learning! 

 

Peggy recommends:

Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See

Inspired by the true story of a woman physician from 15th-century China, Lisa See’s latest about a girl being primed from a young age to become a female doctor in a male oriented world. Ms. See’s novel incorporates the Four Examinations of Chinese medicine— looking, listening, touching, and asking—something a man can never do with a female patient. Hence the need for educating women, even though Confucius said “an educated woman is a useless woman”.

Throughout the book, Ms. See shares the difficulties of growing up female in China. When this young girl, Tan Yunxian, reaches a certain age, she is forced to take her place in society with an arranged marriage and all the traditions that go along with being a “proper” wife. Ms. See is expert at delving into the history of Chinese culture along with a captivating story of women helping women.

I highly recommend you read this book then join us for our virtual discussion with Ms. See, Feb 6th at 4:30. Here is the link to the ZOOM discussion or, better yet, join us at the library for our audience participation of the ZOOM presentation.

John recommends:

It Ain’t Over (DVD)

This is a  biographical tribute to Yogi Berra, a great ball player, excellent manager and very effective coach.  The film was produced by Yogi’s oldest grand daughter and it was apparent that she had great love and respect for Yogi.  The film contains marvelous documentary footage from pre-war until his retirement.  The  reconciliation with George Steinbrenner was especially poignant as Yogi had vowed not to return to Yankee Stadium until Mr. Steinbrenner apologized to him for the way he was fired.  Overall I’d say you don’t have to be a baseball fan to like this film as Yogi added so much to the English language, everyone has heard some of his sayings.  Enjoy and remember “It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over”.


December 2023 Picks:

Kim recommends:

 

Doppelganger is a fascinating nonfiction book but difficult to sum up.  Author Naomi Klein went on a strange journey, inside her own mind, through the Internet, and into books and movies, as well as through the real worlds of British Columbia and New Jersey.  For years, people had been mixing her up with Naomi Wolf.  The two women are close in age and look vaguely alike, with a shared American Jewish background.  At one point, they were both married to film-makers named Avi!  They also both write about society, but while Klein is a socialist who’s deeply concerned about the environment, Wolf went from a feminist Democrat to an anti-vaxxer who befriended Steve Bannon.  As Wolf got deeper and deeper into conspiracy theories, Klein would face more criticism for what people thought were her views but were actually Wolf’s.  So Klein took this “trip” to try and figure out what had happened to Wolf.  Klein’s friends and family were baffled by her pursuit, especially as COVID-19 descended and changed the world.

Along the way, Klein found herself examining many doppelgangers (sort of like unrelated “twins”), including on a national level, and international.  She tried to understand these “shadow selves” and what they say about us.  From finding that an author she swore off of when she was in her 20s (Philip Roth) had wisdom to share thirty years later, to discovering that her Yoga-practicing neighbor wouldn’t vote for Klein’s left-wing husband, there were many surprises in this mirror world.  She did her best to understand Wolf’s own journey.

Even if you don’t agree with the eventual destination of the book, it is well worth taking this trip with Naomi and “Other Naomi.”

 

Peggy recommends:

This is a quirky tale of a group of octogenarians who have to solve a neighborhood murder in order to cover up one of their own. The characters, although suffering from arthritic hips, hearing loss, dementia, blindness and mobility issues, pool together, along with Agnes’ pet turtle, Hettie, to come to the bottom of the mystery.
It’s a fun read, especially if you are old enough to relate.

And remember, I did say quirky.

A multi-generational mystery featuring a high-powered businesswoman, her daughter and her fiercely independent granddaughter. Lana Rubicon moves to northern California due to a health issue. When her granddaughter, Jack, discovers a body and becomes the main suspect, Lana, against her daughter’s objections, is hot on the trail to solving the mystery and clearing her granddaughter’s name. Having no choice but to help her mother, Beth, along with Jack, join forces with Lana to uncover the truth, a truth that may prove deadly to the family. This is a fun read…think Gilmore girls only with murder.


Amie recommends:

The Girl and the Ghost by Hanna Alkaf

A heartbreaking story about a girl and her ghost. It was sweet in ways I didn’t think possible and is one of my new favorites.

 

 

Barbie  DVD

I laughed so hard at this I had to watch it again to hear the jokes I missed. Ryan Gosling better get an Oscar!

 

Vicki recommends:

Wondrous Journeys in Strange Lands by Sonia Nimr

This award winning story tells the tale of a young Palestinian woman born into strange circumstances who leads a life of travel, romance, longing, mystery and adventure. It is a pure DELIGHT to read this worldwide odyssey with a female heroine. It is timeless and beautiful – every sentence makes me happy and every bend in the journey fills me with excitement and suspense. I whole heartedly recommend this book for all lovers of epic sagas and rich storytelling.

Nik recommends:

The Hand-Sculpted House : A Practical and Philosophical Guide to Building a Cob Cottage by Ianto Evans and Michael G Smith

As the weather cools and we perhaps find ourselves spending more time indoors, it’s wonderful to browse through The Hand-Sculpted House by Ianto Evans and Michael G Smith and re-imagine a domicile  that can be built with local materials (perhaps beneath our very own feet?), a structure that is personalized to one’s own needs, and a home created with all the love and intention that rivals any modern, conventionally built home. Utilizing design and construction techniques that predate the industrial revolution, we are empowered to create spaces that utilize the heat-absorbing materials of the earth itself to create comfortable, climate-stable buildings without the need for excessive energy inputs from central heating and cooling systems. So cozy up and rethink what’s possible with this fantastic read filled with illustrations, color photos, and plenty of inspiration for reimagining the future by harnessing the knowledge of the past.

John recommends:

Not the Ones Dead by Dana Stabenow

This the latest in the Kate Shugak series.  This one is slightly longer and more involved than most of the earlier books and it will not disappoint.

 

 

Dirty Thirty by Janet Evanovich  

This latest book is filled with the characters we have all come to know and love.  Joe, Bob, Grandma Mazur, Lula, Connie, Ranger, Mrs Plumb (and her way of dealing with stress), and the blue 1953 Buick. The ending may be a surprise.  Enjoy.


November 2023 Picks:

Amie recommends:

My Heart Is a Chainsaw  by Stephen Graham Jones 

The first book in the trilogy by Stephen Graham Jones that I accidentally read second. It was not as scary as the second one, but still great! And now I have to wait a year for the finale. Dang! 

 

 

Numb  (DVD)

A beautiful film about a man who feels nothing but really wants to feel everything. RIP Matthew Perry!

 

Peggy recommends:

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry

The passing of Matthew Perry was a devastating blow for all those who adored him in Friends. But Friends was just a small fraction of Matthew’s life. This memoir is a no-holds barred look into his life, his loves and his demons. We will forever remember our favorite Friend, Chandler Bing but more than that, we will remember the man behind the character. RIP Matty.

October 2023 Picks:

Vicki recommends:

Stack the Cats by Susie Ghahremani

This is my 8 year old’s longtime favorite book. Stack the Cats is a delightful counting book for ages 4 and up that develops counting forward and backward, simple grouping, and understanding more and less than. It is also incredibly cute. There’s something about yelling “Stack!” when reading a book about making cat cairns that will bring out the laughter at bedtime. Of course they all fall down, but all’s well that ends well and this book is adorable to the last page.

This One Summer by Mariko and Jillian Tamaki

I am including a YA graphic novel this month because it was a challenged book in 2022 and I hope more people read it! This One Summer is a moving coming-of-age story about two young tween friends who have been meeting at the same lake house for their childhoods and the summer that they find themselves on the precipice of teenagers. As the girls watch the teenagers and adults and their respective dramas, they also grapple with how their relationship will make it through the coming transformation. I love when a book manages to capture an in-between time for what it really is – confusing, quiet, observational, internal, alternating between boring and thrilling – without having to add a heavy hand of “The Lesson Is…” The artwork is gorgeous and the purples and blues fit perfectly with the end of summer, end of childhood melancholy. This is a quiet book – there isn’t a big buildup of action, but its heart is beautiful and to me, that’s what we hope to make of our day to day lives.

Peggy recommends:

The Raging Storm by Ann Cleeves

During a severe storm, Detective Matthew Venn is called to the small village of Greystone to investigate the death of Jem Roscoe, a famous sailor who’s body was discovered in a dinghy anchored in Scully Cove. Matthew remembers the village fondly from when he visited as a child as a member of the Brethren, a religious commune his parents belonged to, a group he parted ways with many years ago. With several strong suspects, some of whom are members of the Brethren, Matthew must face his past, put aside his prejudices and investigate Jem’s murder with a clear head.

Once again, Ann Cleeves gives us an outstanding mystery to solve, dripping with rich characters. If you haven’t read the first two books in the Two Rivers series, I highly recommend those as well. They are The Long Call and The Heron’s Cry.

How Can I Help You? by Laura Sims

Margo, a former nurse with a string of premature deaths in her wake, gets a job as a Library Assistant, soon establishing herself as the ideal library worker everyone adores. When Patricia, a failed writer, joins the team, she finds herself doubting Margo’s sincerity and sees behind the facade. When a patron turns up dead in the library bathroom, Patricia is hot on the trail of proving Margo is to blame.

I love serial killer books and the best part about this one is its setting—the library!—a win-win for this library staffer! This is a fun read, especially for those who frequent the library.

John recommends:

The Longmire Defense by Craig Johnson

This latest novel from Craig Johnson introduces a murder case from 1948 that involved Walt’s grandfather Lloyd.  It becomes much more complicated than expected because it involved state finances.  And Walt finally asks undersheriff Vic Moretti  to marry him.  Enjoy.

 

 

Amie recommends:

Don’t Fear the Reaper  by Stephen Graham Jones 

So, this is apparently the second book in a trilogy by one of my new favorite authors. It was so freaking scary that I couldn’t read it at night, but I also couldn’t put it down. Stephen Graham Jones just has this unique way of telling a story without telling it traditionally. And I had to immediately read a dumb book after it just to get my nerves to settle. So scary. Definitely, a good October read!

 

Ghosts: Season 2 BBC (DVD)

The BBC version of Ghosts is so funny! Read the scary slasher book and then watch Ghosts to calm down.

 

 

Nik recommends:

Braking Day by Adam Oyebanji

Braking Day was a refreshing reminder of how one may get lost in the endless adventure of deep-space science fiction. Combining a fictitious narrative of human colonization beyond the limits of our familiar solar system with the mysterious observations from the book’s main protagonist, a wonderfully entertaining story is brought to life with plenty of moments for suspense, action, and intergalactic intrigue. This book is Oyebanji’s first novel and I already look forward to reading whatever may come next.


September 2023 Picks:

Peggy recommends:

Holly by Stephen King

Holly is Holly Gibney, Bill Hodges’ well-loved partner from the Mr. Mercedes trilogy, and head PI in The Outsiders and If It Bleeds, is back investigating the sudden disappearance of Penny Dahl’s daughter. Though she should be taking bereavement time off, when she discovers there is a missing child as well, she can’t help but dive into the case full force. Holly is written in true King style and, while a little milder than usual, it is still a difficult read to put down.

 

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

With Banned Books Week approaching, I selected this book as the ultimate in ridiculous reasons for being banned or challenged. Of course Anne Frank’s Diary of a Young Girl is sad. It’s the true two year history of a young teen living in fear and isolation. In it she expresses the emotions one would expect from such unfathomable living arrangements, the hopes and fears the whole family shares is such desperate times. I find it unbelievable that it was banned for young readers because it was “too sad”. What, are we raising our kids in padded rooms now? Protecting them from all forms of grief? Anne’s story is incredibly poignant but also crucial for every generation to know and understand. I feel it should be required reading for every 5th grader from here on out,  lest we EVER, EVER forget the horrors millions of people had to endure.

August 2023 Picks:

Jennifer recommends:

Hello Stranger by Katherine Center 

Sadie Montgomery is a struggling artist, looking for her lucky break. Things seem to be going her way when she becomes a finalist in a portrait competition. But then Sadie wakes up in the hospital and finds out she needs to have surgery. As Sadie recovers, she realizes she can no longer see faces, a condition known as face blindness. Sadie is assured that the condition is temporary—but Sadie is a portrait artist, and she needs to submit a new portrait in six weeks. Luckily, Sadie can still see the face of her dog, Peanut. When Peanut gets sick, Sadie meets veterinarian Dr. Addison, and is surprised when he asks her on a date. Then there’s Joe, Sadie’s obnoxious neighbor who seems to know everyone in the building—and who becomes a friend to Sadie. With the help of her best friend, Sue, and neighbor Joe, Sadie learns how to see and paint her subjects differently.  

While Sadie’s first encounter with her neighbor, Joe, didn’t paint him in the best light, he ended up being my favorite character. Sadie’s evil stepsister (as Joe says, “They still make those?”) is so mean, and I really felt for Sadie every time she popped up. Katherine Center writes such sweet, thought-provoking contemporary romance novels. I highly recommend her books, and we have all of them in our system! 

Jasmine recommends:

Every Day by David Levithan

Every day A wakes up in a new body, and spends a day in the life of a different person. A does their best to leave these lives unmarked, until one day they wake up in the body of Justin and falls in love with Justin’s girlfriend Rhiannon. A treats Rhiannon to a wonderful day, and wants to keep seeing her. They both have to decide if they can trust each other, and the story unfolds in a truly beautiful way. A wakes up as many different young people over the course of the book and they have great respect and caring for each of the lives they get a glimpse of. Its also interesting to follow Rhiannon struggle to reconcile this attraction they have for A’s personality while meeting them behind a new face every time. One of my favorite books I’ve ever read.

Kim recommends:

The Lost King DVD

The Lost King DVD (2022) is a fun, inspiring blend of history, mystery, comedy, and fantasy, based on the book The King’s Grave (which I haven’t read yet but plan to).  An ordinary British woman becomes benignly obsessed with finding the burial place of Richard III, while imagining the dead king’s reactions.  Along the way, she has to learn whom to trust, and how much, as people from around the country and then the world react to her quest.

Peggy recommends:

O Pioneers! by Willa Cather

Celebrating the 110th anniversary of the publication of O Pioneers!, one of the original feminist novels to come out of early 20th century. O Pioneers! is a classic that exemplifies how perseverance, fortitude and spirituality are all necessary characteristics for survival. Based on the author’s Nebraska upbringing, the main character, Alexandra Bergson overcomes extreme hardships and life-altering tragedies while trying to make her frontier homestead a success. O Pioneers! is a classic peek into early Americana life and well worth the read all these years later.

The Dry (DVD)

Based on the Jane Harper book by the same title, this is a great mystery that provides a beautiful Australian backdrop.

Federal Agent Aaron Falk returns to his hometown to attend the funeral of his childhood friend, who has allegedly killed his family before taking his own life. His friend’s family begs Aaron to stay and investigate the deaths and he reluctantly agrees. As he investigates the current crimes, he is thrown back to the crime that caused him to flee his hometown 20 yrs prior.  (I highly recommend you read the book, The Dry, first, and the follow up book, Force of Nature. In fact, I recommend ALL of Harper’s books!)

I Swear: Politics is Messier Than My Minivan by Katie Porter

Katie Porter is best known as the “whiteboard” Congressperson because her style of questioning , 99% of the time, includes visuals. Katie is a down-to-early Representative, one who works from paycheck to paycheck, is a single-mother and a domestic abuse survivor. As an “everyday” Congressperson, she knows the issues that are important to the everyday middle class constituents she represents. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by the author, and it was well worth the time spent. I learned a lot about Congress I didn’t know and experienced the insurrection through her eyes. I highly recommend this book.

John recommends:

Witches Abroad by Terry Pratchett

I love Pratchett’s witch stories.  They are a whole series unto themselves.   The character development is excellent and the story is both amusing and holds the attention almost to distraction.  Try it you’ll like it.  And look for the other Pratchett witch stories too.  ENJOY

 

 

Vicki recommends:

This is an anthology of comics written, drawn, published and edited by Indigenous artists all centered around the legend of the Deer Woman, a spirit in many Native American mythologies who protects women and children and can bring vengeance to those who have hurt them. There are artists in this anthology from all levels of expertise, including a section in the end for children’s submissions. I appreciated the honesty, power and beauty in these stories, and the vision of hope and solidarity for Native women in this anthology.

I haven’t finished this yet, so it might get unbearable and I don’t know it. I’m halfway through now though, and I love it. You don’t need a purple bracelet as the cover implies – just anything you can shift physically every time you complain, setting up a somatic response to your, likely, much more frequent than you suspect, complaining. This book is not trying to gloss over serious oppression, or tell you to think your way positively out of poverty, but it is setting up a system to reduce (and potentially eliminate) complaining, improve your outlook and increase personal happiness. I’m digging it. I’ll let you know if I ever make it to 21 days complaint free – current personal stretch? 4 hours!

Amie recommends:

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead  by Olga Tokarczuk 

Though I knew from the beginning how this story was going to unfold, the writing was gorgeous and my sentiments and beliefs aligned perfectly with it. 

Meet Cute (DVD)

Not your normal RomCom, but definitely worth it. 

July 2023 Picks:

Jasmine recommends:

All Our Hidden Gifts by Caroline O’Donoghue

A strange old tarot deck that gives scarily accurate readings, an ex-best friend that disappears soon after her reading, and a creepy card that shouldn’t be in the deck at all but will not stay out… All Our Hidden gifts has a fantastic dark and witchy atmosphere, and a cast of fun and very real characters. And some good queer representation on top of all that, I’m sold!

 

Vicki recommends:

No Fuzzball! and the sequel No Snowball! by Isabella Kung

Both my daughter and I loved these very funny children’s picture books featuring a delusional cat who believes she rules over her humans under the name, “NoFuzzball.” They scream at her everywhere she goes, supposedly delighted by her antics of curtain shredding, dragging their things around and torturing the family dog. In “No Fuzzball!”, our empress is left alone and has to rethink her ways, and in “No Snowball!” she becomes guardian of a new subject in the queendom, whom she must train to follow in her footsteps. The front and back inside covers are full of expressive sketches which will be relatable to all subordinates of a royal feline.

Jennifer recommends:

Happy Place by Emily Henry 

Harriet and Wyn have been the perfect couple of their friend group since college. They broke up six months ago. And they haven’t told their friends. This is the last year the group will be spending a summer week at their yearly Maine getaway beach house before the house is sold. Harriet and Wyn make a pact to keep their breakup a secret from their friends so they can have one final, happy summer vacation. But as the week goes on, Harriet and Wyn can’t help but notice how desperately they still want each other.  

Happy Place quickly became one of my Emily Henry favorites (my other favorite being Beach Read). The chapters are all told from Harriet’s perspective, but alternate between the present and her past happy places—with Wyn. While a wonderful romance, this story is so much more than that. Harriet not only repairs her relationship with Wyn, she becomes closer to her best friends as they all realize they were keeping secrets from each other. Despite being called Happy Place and having a cute summer-y cover, this book is gut-wrenching with painful memories and that will-they-won’t-they tension (but don’t worry…there IS a happy ending!). 

Peggy recommends:

Lone Women by Victor LaValle

When we first see Adelaide, she has poured gasoline all over the family dwelling and is about to set it on fire with her family’s corpses tucked tight in bed.
The year is 1915. Adelaide will soon escape to the harsh beauty of Montana as one of the “lone” women acquiring a homestead from the federal government. If she can survive three years there, cultivating the land and making it habitable, the land will become hers.
As a single Black woman heading into the Badlands, Adelaide is aware of her vulnerability to racial and gender violence, but surprisingly, she’s more concerned with what’s inside the heavy steamer trunk that she drags with her to Montana.
I learned a lot reading this book. First, I wasn’t aware women and minorities were allowed to homestead the land. I just assumed they needed a white male accompaniment to be viewed as legit contenders. So that part intrigued me. But, the story of Adelaide, as a person, and what happened to push her in such an unconventional direction kept me enraptured. It’s a unique story. Give it a try.

Only the Survivors by Megan Miranda

True to form, Miranda gives us another thrilling mystery. High-schoolers set out on a field trip in two separate vans. For unknown reasons, they veer away from the planned route only to plunge off a damaged bridge into a raging river. Nine students survive by climbing up the cliff, away from the rising river waters. To take care of each other after such a traumatic event, they agree to gather each year at the anniversary to check in. At the ten year anniversary, the survivors are down to seven. When one of the seven disappears, the survivors struggle with their increasing anxiety and the fear that the secret of what really happened that night has put them in grave peril.
The author does not disappoint with this one. With flashbacks to the fateful night built in to the present anniversary gathering, Miranda’s story flows flawlessly to a satisfying climax.
I highly recommend Only the Survivors.

June 2023 Picks:

Kim recommends:

First Words with Cute Crochet Friends by Lauren Espy

First Words with Cute Crochet Friend is an adorable board book with knitted objects and animals, from a watering can to an ice cream cone to a cow and a bunny.  There’s no story, unless parents want to make one up for their toddlers, based on the two-page themes, like “Arctic Animals.”

Jennifer recommends:

The Messy Lives of Book People by Phaedra Patrick 

Liv Green works as a maid, barely scraping by to make ends meet to support her family. She loves to escape into a good book while daydreaming about becoming a writer herself. For the last three years, Liv has been working as a housekeeper for her hero, bestselling author Essie Starling. Years ago, Essie became a recluse, and Liv seems to be her only friend. When Essie passes away suddenly, Liv is surprised to learn that her dying wish was for Liv to complete her final novel—and she’s tasked to keep Essie’s death a secret. Liv must step into Essie’s shoes to write about her hero, Georgia Rory. As Liv writes, she uncovers secrets from the past that reveal a connection between the two women—one that will change Liv’s life forever.

There is a surprise twist at the end that reveals why Essie Starling chose her housekeeper and friend, Liv, to finish her novel, which I did not see coming. I enjoyed reading the “excerpts” from Essie’s/Liv’s book about heroine Georgia Rory throughout. Overall, a fun read.

Vicki recommends:

Long Live the Tribe of Fatherless Girls by T Kira Madden

This memoir hit all the spots for me – livin’ through the 90’s, parents with substance abuse issues, coming out as queer, wild road trips, coastal Southern Florida (I could smell it through Madden’s funky descriptions), and total teenage dysfunction bordering on near destruction. Ah, the nostalgia – fun times! A lot of reviewers apparently think these themes are “too intense,” but this is my jam. Madden is an heir to the Madden shoe dynasty (yes, the iconic platforms of the 90’s and 00’s) on her dad’s side, and Native Hawaiian and Chinese on her mother’s side. She’s incredibly privileged, but neglected and parentified by her mom and dad, and also a witness to their shared domestic violence and out of control drug use. Still, she loves them with a fierce loyalty while she tries to navigate an almost entirely white world as a biracial person and multiple generations of family secrets on both sides that keep her from knowing her identity fully. I was crushed by the vulnerability of Madden’s teen self, and her insistence on survival even in the midst of the deep self-loathing only a forgotten, young girl can have. Madden’s writing is raw, sharp, honest, sad and often funny in spite of it all. I was rooting for her the whole time and couldn’t wait to read how she made it out to the gifted writer she is today. An incredible plot twist in the last chapter is a reminder that a family only needs one person to step up, break generational curses and send the healing back to the ancestors and on to the future generations. Bravo!

Peggy recommends:

Blackwater Falls by Ausma Zehanat Khan

Investigating the gruesome murder of a Muslim teen in a small town outside of Denver, Detective Inaya Rahman soon discovers there is more to this crime than first expected. The investigation unravels details of abhorrent behavior including, but not limited to, racism, police brutality, anti-immigrant sentiment, misogyny and extreme religious fanaticism.

This novel is not for the faint of heart (it is graphic) nor those who disagree politically. However, it is well written and thought provoking. Not for everyone but if you can, try it.

May 2023 Picks:

Jennifer recommends:

The Only Survivors by Megan Miranda

10 years ago, two vans filled with high school seniors crashed into a ravine, claiming the lives of many classmates and two teachers. The nine students who escaped were changed forever. A year later, one of the survivors dies by suicide on the anniversary of the crash. The remaining survivors made a pact: to come together each year to keep each other safe—or to hold each other accountable. Cassidy tries to distance herself from everyone on the tenth anniversary, but on the day of the reunion, she receives a text with an obituary attached: another survivor is gone. With seven survivors left, Cassidy rushes to their meeting place, a house on the Outer Banks. But something feels off this year. Amaya, annual trip organizer, leaves without communication. With an impending storm, the survivors are faced with closed roads and surging waters…again.

This is another chilling, suspenseful mystery/thriller from Miranda. The book kept me engaged until the end, on the edge of my seat, and surprised by the ending. I did not see the final twist coming. Cassidy is the main narrator, telling the story in the present (the novel flips to other survivors’ perspectives in the past, unfolding the event of the initial tragedy), and she has her own secrets, keeping the reader in the dark until the final few pages.

Peggy recommends:

What Lies in the Woods by Kate Alice Marshall

Three young girls spend their summer days roaming the nearby woods playing The Goddess Game. Then one day, one of the girls is attacked and nearly dies. Based on the three girl’s testimony, a serial killer is put away for life. But the girls were lying. Twenty-two years later one of the girls wants to confess what really happened, knowing full well the confession could do great harm to their adult lives, and not everyone wants the truth to come out.

What Lies in the Woods is a labyrinth of secrets and lies, winding the reader through the creepy woods of childhood games and imaginations.  This story is a great thriller that’s hard to put down.

Beaujolais in My Blood by Eric Pitsenbarger

Eric Pitsenbarger tells a heartfelt personal story of growing up in his parents’ French restaurant, Cafe Beaujolais in Mendocino. Against the backdrop of immense cultural shift in the late-1960s, in the unique setting of wild, coastal Mendocino, here is a poignant telling of what it was like for a closeted gay kid working and living in a family-run French restaurant. A humorous and gritty.

April 2023 Picks:

Vicki recommends:

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and with current statistics showing that every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted; it’s a huge problem and we need to bring more awareness and action to the issue (https://www.rainn.org/statistics/scope-problem). Drawing Power: Women’s Stories of Sexual Violence, Harassment and and Survival is a graphic compilation of illustrated stories and vignettes by women from all walks of life that bring awareness, discussion, accountability and sometimes healing to this all-too common experience. Some of the comics have triumphant endings, and some leave the reader adrift, not knowing what the conclusion, if any, there will be. The style of illustration is as varied and eclectic as the women artists themselves, and every page has something of interest. It’s a hard subject, but if you are looking to educate yourself as an ally, or find comfort in knowing you’re not alone as a survivor – I recommend this book. Locally, if you need to talk to someone about experiencing a sexual assault, no matter when it happened, Project Sanctuary’s crisis line is available 24/7 at 707-964-4357. In addition, RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) has a national 24/7 crisis line at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). 

 

Jennifer recommends:

The Epic Story of Every Living Thing by Deb Caletti 

Harper Proulx has unanswered questions about her anonymous sperm donor father. She believes that without knowing him, she can’t know herself. When an Instagram post connects Harper to a half sibling, she begins to uncover her father’s identity. Harper joins her new half siblings, Dario, Wyatt, and Simone on a summer trip to Hawaii to meet their father. This half siblings meet Beau, a charismatic deep-sea diver obsessed with solving the mystery of a sunken shipwreck off the Hawaiian coast, and his mother, Greer. Meeting her half siblings and Beau forces Harper out of her comfort zone and helps her confront her anxiety brought on by the pandemic. But Harper also has more questions than ever: Who is she? Is she her DNA, her experiences, her successes, her failures? Who is she in dark times? Who might she become after them?  

Caletti beautifully explores the concept of family—all kinds of family—in this young adult novel. The beginning of each chapter features excerpts from letters and journal entries of Mary Ann Brown Patten, the first female commander of an American Merchant vessel when her husband became ill, and her story grows as Harper’s does. This is a wonderful coming-of-age story which I highly recommend!  

John recommends:

This book is a real page turner and has all of the Stephanie Plum requirements of destroyed cars, Grandma Mazur, Lulla’s fashion sense, and Morelli’s dog Bob.  The only thing I missed was the 1953 Buick.  I especially enjoyed Stephanie’s ability to deal with Bella, Morelli’s grandmother.  Read and enjoy

March 2023 Picks:

Vicki recommends:

Mamaphonic: Balancing Motherhood and Other Creative Acts, edited by Bee Lavender and Maia Rossini
If you are a new mom, or even an old mom, and wonder what happened to the part of you that is also an artist, then you need to read this book and feel the inspiration, solidarity and realness in these pages. I wish someone had given this to me eight years ago and spared me some of the existential crisis that comes with becoming a mom and entering a world of extremes from the greatest heart-bursting joy of seeing your child experience life to the most mind-numbing drudgery of domestic duty. This collection of essays from artist moms of all types – writers, performers, photographers, visual artists – explores how we can keep up our practice and what that looks like with children, why we must, and what the heck happened to us!? This book was published in 2004, and there are references to many pop culture moments of the near past (especially the 90’s, which as an x-ennial is right up my alley), but even so, it is still fresh because somethings don’t change and being a mom scrawling a poem on a square of toilet paper in the bathroom while children try to beat down the door is one of them.

 

Kim recommends:

Bigfoot and Nessie 1: The Art of Getting Noticed by Chelsea M Campbell

Bigfoot and Nessie 1: The Art of Getting Noticed is an adorable start to a new graphic novel series.  The youngest member of the Bigfoot family never seems to get photographed, or even noticed, by humans, no matter how hard he tries. His new friend, Nessie, has the opposite problem, since she’s trying to go incognito away from Loch Ness.  The story examines subjects like fame and creativity, in a kid-friendly way, with bright, cheerful illustrations.  I’d recommend it for ages 8 to 12, although I could see teens and adults who appreciate a sweet but thought-provoking story getting something out of it, too.  (And it would work for 5 and up as a read-aloud.)

Amie recommends:

Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney 

So this started as a dark and stormy murder mystery that I thought I knew the outcome of, but then it turned into something much better and surprised me. Hard to do. The characters are fun. The story is good. The telling is great.

 

 

 A Carnival of Snackery: Diaries 2003-2020 by David Sedaris 

Mr. Sedaris and Ms. Ullman read David’s diary snippets. That is all. That is enough. Hilarious! Do the audiobook so you can hear him. Roll on the floor funny, not good for when you’re driving. In the snow. Cuz it just snowed here.

 

 

Peggy recommends:

Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six by Lisa Unger

A luxury rental, featuring exquisite views, a personal chef, a hot tub and all the amenities of home. What better way for family and friends to celebrate a birthday? But all is not right with this beautiful cabin in the woods nor is it right with this family (hint…DNA testing reveals some rather shocking results). Again, Lisa Unger gives us a thriller that makes us go “Hmm…”

 

When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain

Anna Hart is a seasoned missing persons detective in San Francisco with far too much knowledge of the darkest side of human nature. When tragedy strikes her personal life, Anna, desperate and numb, flees to the Northern California village of Mendocino to grieve. She lived there as a child with her beloved foster parents, and now she believes it might be the only place left for her. Yet the day she arrives, she learns that a local teenage girl has gone missing.

This semi-autobiographical novel is both familiar and chilling. Paula McLain takes us on a visual journey through Mendocino as seen through the eyes of someone who knows and loves it well. You’ll enjoy solving this mystery set in your own stomping grounds.

 

The Light we Carry by Michelle Obama

Ms. Obama shares stories about the importance of giving and how it enriches the life of the giver as much as the receiver. She offers guidance and tools for adapting to change in difficult times and developing habits that help us adjust and grow in times of change. Whether you liked her as First Lady or not, this book is truly inspirational.

I encourage listening on audio, too, as her voice lends authenticity to the narrative.

Jennifer recommends:

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn 

Georgie Mulcahy leaves her hectic job in LA and moves back to her hometown.  As a personal assistant, Georgie always put others before herself.  She takes this move as an opportunity to find out what she wants.  While going through high school memorabilia with her best friend, Georgie find a “friendfic” diary she wrote as a teenager—a sort of guidebook for how she wanted high school and her future to be.  Georgie decides to use the dairy as a way to find her new path.  She hits a snag with unexpected roommate Levi Fanning—onetime town troublemaker.  But Levi is more than just his reputation, and the grouchy man offers to help Georgie with her quest.  As the two make their way through the list, Georgie begins to realize that the answers she’s looking for may not be in the pages of the diary after all.

Told from both Georgie’s and Levi’s perspectives, this is the sweet love story and finding yourself journey of two people who never felt they fit in…until they find each other.  The supporting characters are great as well: Hank, Levi’s goofy dog; Bel, Georgie’s pregnant best friend; and Georgie’s flaky, but loveable parents.

February 2023 Picks

Amie recommends:

Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach 

I live north of town and happen to have a favorite bear named “Bear.” She is very polite and always demure, but this past spring, her extended family appeared, some 11 other bears. Though I was ecstatic, my neighbors were not. Fuzz is just one-step beyond my recent experiences and a good look into where my life might turn.

 

The Banshees of Inisherin DVD

Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson reunite with their writer/director buddy Martin McDonagh of In Bruges in this too-heartbreaking-to-be-hilarious tale of two best friends no longer being best friends. It is a beautiful, semi-haunting film that makes you think about friendships past and what makes life worth living.

 

Peggy recommends:

Exiles by Jane Harper

Harper brings back Investigator Aaron Falk in this new thriller where a mother disappears from a busy festival leaving behind her baby in the pram, tucked in alongside her possessions.

A year later, as the young mother’s friends and family gather to welcome a new addition to the family, federal investigator, Falk, on a break from his own hectic work schedule, soon realizes this community is not as tight knit as they portray themselves to be.

As always, Harper weaves a dark, suspenseful web that hooks the reader in and grips on tight until the end.

Jennifer recommends:

Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen 

Olivia (Liv) Huang Christenson is nervous and excited to be taking over her grandmother’s matchmaking business, Lunar Love.  When Liv learns about a new dating app, ZodiaCupid, that has made her Pó Po’s traditional Chinese zodiac approach more about “animal attraction,” she’s furious.  Especially when she learns the creator of the app is Bennett O’Brien, the cute guy she met at the local bakery.  Liv knows better than to fall for a handsome guy who believes traditions are meant to be broken, let alone one whose Zodiac sign is incompatible with hers.  As their businesses go head to head, Liv and Bennett make a deal: they’ll find a match for each other—and whoever falls in love loses.  But will the guy who is adept at stealing business ideas also steal Liv’s heart?

The banter between Liv and Bennett is entertaining and humorous.  Jessen did a wonderful job seamlessly weaving in Chinese traditions, customs, beliefs, and the Chinese Zodiac with the sweeping love story of Liv and Bennett.  Bonus: the back of the book includes some recipes and more information about the Chinese Zodiac!

January 2023 Picks

Kim recommends:

After the Snowfall by Rich Lo

After the Snowfall is a stunning yet peaceful picture book, with a simple yet satisfying story.  A fox walks home on a winter night, observing but not disturbing the other animals.  The creatures look realistic but huggable, even the moose, while the leafless trees run the color spectrum, in watercolors.  And of course the black sky and white snow provide strong contrasts to this all.  As for the story, the ending is both surprising and sweet.

Recommended for ages 3 to 9, as well as adults who appreciate lovely children’s book illustrations.

Peggy recommends:

Death in Shetland Waters by Marsali Taylor

Marsali Taylor and her Shetland Sailing Mysteries were highly recommended by author Ann Cleeves so, when I started researching this series for the library, I landed on the book author’s website. I was instantly intrigued when Ms. Taylor described her experience doing active research aboard one of the Norwegian tall ships thusly “I’m afraid my presence called out the worst instincts of crew and trainees alike; even our dignified Captain Sture came up to me and murmured, ‘If I was going to hide a body on board …’”

Now, come on, who wouldn’t want to read about murder on a tall ship where everyone is stuck onboard? And, I’ll tell you what…it does not disappoint. Give it a try and let me know what you think.

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

I didn’t want to read this because it sounded like it was going to be lame. Then, one of our regular patrons came in and told me it was her new favorite, one she couldn’t put down once she started it. I said, “dang! I guess I need to try it.” But I didn’t. I let it go. Didn’t trust her judgement. Then, one of my favorite musicians recommended it on her social media page.  And I said “dang! Now I really need to read it.” And I’m so glad I did! It is different, it is refreshing, and it is delightful. My new favorite character, Elizabeth Zott, is a 1960s chemist turned TV cooking show host. Elizabeth teaches women, not only how to cook, but how to stand up for their right to be more than just wives and mothers, and, in so doing, teaches them to change the status quo. I loved Lessons in Chemistry! I hope you will, too.

Jennifer recommends:

The Santa Suit by Mary Kay Andrews

Newly divorced Ivy Perkins buys an old farmhouse sight unseen, looking for a change in her life.  With the help of Ezra, Ivy’s realtor, Ivy begins to renovate the farmhouse.  The previous family left so much junk and furniture, that Ivy needs all the help she can get.  At the top of a closet, Ivy and Ezra find an old Santa suit—beautifully crafted and decades old.  In the pocket of the suit is a note written by a child; a little girl who has one Christmas wish: for her father to return home from the war.  The letter spurs Ivy on a mission.  Who wrote the note?  Did the little girl’s father ever come home?  Ivy’s quest helps her venture out into her new community at a time when she just wanted to stay home and wallow.  But, Ivy finds more than she bargained for: a welcoming town, new friends, and a second chance at love.

This is a sweet Christmas novella by Mary Kay Andrews about the miracles of Christmas and second chances.  This book reminds me of feel-good Hallmark movies.  So cozy up with this short read if you’re still yearning for the magic of Christmas.

John recommends:

Greetings:  This romantic comedy showed a man with few social skills and very little emotion or empathy.  But he did manage to change enough to …well I won’t be a spoiler.  This one was humorous in a kind way and really held my attention.  I think it will engage you too!  Enjoy.

December 2022 Picks

Kim recommends:

The Paper Museum is set in a future where paper is both rare and worthless.  However, 12-year-old Lydia is fascinated by books and everything connected to them.  Her family runs the town’s museum of paper and she is doing a project where she searches in the museum’s library for bookmarks.  Soon, she has a new and more important project: solving the mystery of her parents’ disappearance.
This book, aimed at ages eight to twelve, offers a fascinating world, both quaint and dystopic, with a brave, clever heroine, who makes many mistakes (in her sleuthing and in her friendships) but learns from them.

 

Jennifer recommends:

When in Rome by Sarah Adams 

Opposites attract for a stranded pop star and a small-town baker in this modern take on the Hepburn classic Roman Holiday.  

Feeling burned-out from years as a pop star, Amelia Rose (stage name: Rae Rose) is inspired by her favorite Audrey Hepburn film, Roman Holiday, to take a break in Rome.  Amelia hops in her old car and drives to Rome…Kentucky.  Noah Walker finds Amelia on his front lawn in her broken-down car and offers her his guest room until her car is fixed.  But Noah makes it clear to Amelia that he doesn’t have the time or patience for celebrity problems.  He’s busy running the pie shop his grandmother left him and reminding his nosy neighbors to mind their own business.  But then Noah starts to see a different side of Rae Rose—Amelia.  Amelia is kindhearted and goofy, though lonely despite her life of fame.  Noah and Amelia begin to get close, but Amelia needs to leave soon for her next tour.  Until then, Noah shows Amelia the charming small-town of Rome, and Amelia helps Noah open up his heart to love again.  Amelia begins to fall for the cozy small-town and her grumpy tour guide…but even Audrey had to leave Rome eventually.   

When in Rome is cute small-town romance.  I couldn’t help but laugh at the witty banter between Amelia and Noah—and their funny nicknames for each other!  I can’t wait for the next books in the Rome series–it looks like each book will follow a different Walker sibling!  (This book is currently available in our catalog as an eBook and eAudiobook, though a few hardcopies are on order).

Vicki recommends:

Notes of a Crocodile by Qiu Miaojin (available in eBook form)
OK, this book isn’t for everyone. But if it’s for you – it’s going to be really, really for you. Lazi is a young Taiwanese lesbian student, pining for an older (but not by much) woman and trying to muddle through her last years at University and figure out life as a young adult. The book is divided up into “Notebooks,” which are diary entries focused on scenes of Lazi and her rag-tag bunch of queer friends interspersed with a running satirical gag about crocodiles which have invaded Taiwan but are wearing human suits in order to blend in with society. Author Qui Miaojin died very young, and only left a few books behind. I learned later she was a student of Helene Cixous and studied with her in Paris. If you are a fan of Cixous, post-modern feminism, dramatic queer youth yearning, absolutely beautiful prose, and chapters that end with a joke, this book is for you. Also, somebody made a playlist of all the tracks mentioned in the book – allow me: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLl32QKhy3M8HZf_vYRhEZAJt4LsxTcBcH

November 2022 Picks

John recommends:

This book is a pleasant eulogy of a fictional character that has many similarities to Pay it Forward.  Very positive and well-organized, it is a pleasure to read.  Enjoy.

 

 

 

Peggy recommends:

Back to the Garden is set just south of San Francisco, on a large garden estate run by a former commune leader, the grandson of the estate’s former owner. When bones are discovered buried under a statue that has been in the same place for over 50 years, detective Raquel Laing, an expert on the serial killer known as the Highwayman, is called in to determine if the bones belong to one of his victims. In researching the estate’s archives, Det. Laing is drawn toward the reclusive owner as a possible suspect and other lives may be in danger the closer she gets to the truth. Balancing between past and present, Ms King weaves the story with layers of historical interest leading to a startling resolution.

I have loved this Santa Cruz native’s books since the Kate Martinelli series back in the nineties and, while I enjoy the Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes series, I prefer her stand-alone novels. This one does not disappoint.


Jennifer recommends:

The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston 

Florence Day is a ghostwriter for one of the most popular romance authors.  But after a terrible breakup, Florence believes love is dead.  When her new editor won’t give her an extension on her book deadline, Florence prepares to kiss her career goodbye. When Florence receives a call that her father has died, she returns home for the first time in a decade to help her family bury him.  Ten years ago, Florence ran from the town that never understood her or the gift she shared with her father: the ability to see and speak with ghosts.  When Florence returns to her family’s funeral parlor, she finds someone familiar at the front door: Benji Andor, her new editor.  There’s just one catch: he’s a ghost.  Now, Florence has to help Ben complete his unfinished business so he can move on.  Ben’s unfinished business will have Florence second-guessing everything she’s ever known about love stories.   

This is Ashley Poston’s debut adult novel, and I have to say it is one of my top five reads of the year!  The chemistry and tension between Florence and Ben is palpable, yet they literally can’t touch each other (one of them being a ghost).  This just added to the beautiful and heart-wrenching love story.   

Vicki recommends:

Consent (For Kids!): boundaries, respect and being in charge of you by Rachel Bryan

This graphic novel is geared towards kids 6-13, but I enjoyed it very much while reading to my seven-year-old. The drawings are simple stick figures, but they are expressive and the comic book style and hilarious word bubbles make the text engaging. For parents looking for a way to talk to your child about body boundaries without getting into a discussion about sex, this book is for you. And it’s so important!! Prevention is the key to ending child abuse, family violence, and bullying, and it starts with each of us. If you are struggling with how to convey healthy relationships with the youth in your life, let this light-hearted book be a tool in your kit. And for those of us grown-ups who didn’t have someone to teach us when we were little, this book is a great tutorial on how to navigate relationships while taking care of your own needs and reflecting on how we treat others.

Kim recommends:

Josie & the Pussycats (DVD—Available as part of a 4 movie collection)

Josie & the Pussycats (2001) is a clever, fun, brightly colored satire of late ’90s/early ’00s pop music trends, with the comic-book band brought to life by Rachel Leigh Cook, Rosario Dawson, and Tara Reid.  Parker Posey and Alan Cumming steal their scenes as the scheming villains.  And the opening scenes with “Du Jour” (the boy band of the day) are hilarious even as stand-alones.  The music is very catchy, too.

October 2022 Picks

Jennifer recommends:

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

Hannah Brooks is an Executive Protection Agent (aka “bodyguard”).  After the death of her mother, and dumped by her boyfriend—and coworker—the day after her mother’s funeral, Hannah wants to get away.  She hopes to land the new promotion assignment in London, but her boss has other ideas.  Instead, Hannah is assigned to protect Jack Stapleton, the famous actor.  When Jack’s mom gets sick, he returns home to the family’s Texas ranch to help out.  One catch: he doesn’t want his family knowing about his stalker.  Jack is skeptical about Hannah at first—can this woman who looks more like a kindergarten teacher protect him?—but she soon sets him straight in an amusing display of her skills.  So Hannah—against her will and her better judgment—finds herself pretending to be Jack’s girlfriend as a cover.  What could go wrong?

Katherine Center’s books are always automatic reads for me, and this one did not disappoint!  There’s the witty banter, the often-amusing thoughts of Hannah, and of course swoon-worthy Jack and his lovable family.  But it’s not all rom-com; the book also explores more serious subjects.  This book was a lighter read with substance, and pure fun.

Amie recommends:

Fairy Tale by Stephen King

Charlie Reade hears his super grumpy neighbor’s vicious dog barking and realizes something is wrong so he climbs the fence and eventually ends up in The Other world that he’s inherited from said grumpy-turned-friendly neighbor to save the life of the vicious-turned-lovebug dog. How do you like that?!? I liked it. The dog is wonderful! But aren’t they all? Not scary, not gruesome, kinda in line with Mr. King’s Eye of the Dragon.

 

Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (DVD)

Nicolas Cage plays Nicolas Cage. Epic. And Pedro Pascal (my boyfriend) is hysterical!

 

 

Vicki recommends:

California Dreamin’: Cass Elliot Before the Mamas and the Papas by Penelope Bagieu (available as an eBook)

I found this book searching through one of my favorite book databases: A Mighty Girl https://www.amightygirl.com/ under the biographies section. This graphic novel tells the story of Cass Elliot, starting with her childhood as Ellen Naomi Cohen, the daughter of the owners of the “only Jewish delicatessen in Baltimore.” Elliot’s childhood and adolescence were fraught with economic insecurity and the death of her beloved father, but the flamboyant personality, star-power and pure, phenomenal vocal talent was also solidified early on. Bagieu’s drawings, all in sweeping, inky, black and white, capture Cass in her full glory – I loved seeing her depicted as dynamic, goofy, sensual, sexy and beautiful, with great facial expression as she navigates countless rejections due to her size, with humor and self-respect. Bagieu also does a great job of humanizing Cass, rendering her relatable through each chapter told through a different character, and highlighting her triumphs and troubles. We all want to be loved, accepted, recognized for our gifts and given our flowers, and Cass embodies these messy, human desires. Despite fellow bandmember John Phillip’s multiple attempts otherwise, there is simply no Mamas and the Papas without Mama Cass. Bagieu shows us the tenacity that Cass possessed in order to bring us some of the most beautiful vocal harmonies and catchy jams of 20th century rock and roll. This is a great book for lovers of 60’s music and those who want to see a fat, multi-dimensional heroine celebrated with love through the graphic novel.

Peggy recommends:

Ink Black Heart by Robert Galbreath (aka JK Rowling)

This one was a difficult read. Not because of its content but it’s a book that’s as thick as my head and HEAVY. Oh my goodness, is it big.

However, true to style, Strike and Robin are up to their necks in shifty characters, romance and murder, finding themselves deeply entrenched in cybercrime intrigue. Although JK has taken heat for her transphobia (and, yes, the book does include mention of that), she can still spin a yarn that keeps you enthralled. Give it a try, but be careful. If you fall asleep in bed reading it, it may give you a concussion.

The Rising Tide by Ann Cleeves

Every 5 years, for 50 years, a group of friends have been meeting on Holy Island on retreat where they reminisce and catch up with each other’s lives. Tragedy hit at the second reunion when one of the friends died while trying to leave the island before the tides came in. Each member of the group holds their own regrets and secrets about what happened that fateful night, but no one is talking until another of their group is found dead.

Rising Tide is DI Vera Stanhope at her detecting best. It’s gritty and raw with a surprise ending.

I loves me some Vera! I hope you will, too.

John recommends:

Encore Provence by Peter Mayle

This is a book by an author who really loved France and France loved him. In his lifetime, he was given numerous awards for service to France. Encore Provence is a largely culinary and oenology based travel book. I liked it because, not only did it describe delicious meals that made me hungry, but it also has a lot of humor. I especially like the story of the woman who was talked into a getting a reverse mortgage. If you like Peter Mayle, you’ll love this one.

September 2022 Picks

September is Library Card Sign-up Month and WE recommend you get yourself a library card asap and check out one of our favorites!

Peggy recommends:

Crazy Joy: Finding Wild Happiness in a World That’s Upside Down by Mary Katherine Backstrom

This isn’t your classic self-help book. Mary Kate takes us humorously along through the difficulties of life to get us to see the joy that lies within the chaos. “The beauty of joy isn’t found in a garden. It doesn’t grow in neat little rows. It’s found in the crevices, the cracks, and the chaos. “
By the time you finish the book, you feel like you have a better vision of the joy you’ve experienced in your own chaotic life’s journey.

The It Girl by Ruth Ware

The It Girl is a well-written, gripping, action packed dark academia thriller. It has everything you want from that kind of story – a close group of friends that is not immune to jealousy, stalking, cheating, and scandals. Perfect for any late night thriller cravings. Or even a beach read, if you must.

 

Vicki recommends:

The Great Mrs. Elias by Barbara Chase-Riboud

This book is a triumph of historical fiction about a subject often overlooked. Mrs. Hannah Elias lived during the turn of the 20th century and rose to prominence as one of the richest Black women in the United States at the time. Elias survived trauma, poverty, abandonment, institutionalization and prison to reinvent herself as a successful sexworker, madame and businesswoman who eventually stashed millions in over 100 accounts. The murder of a prominent lover leads the police and the press to her home, where her true identity is revealed to much public scorn. This book combines mystery, incredibly detailed history of New York City in the early 1900s, and social commentary about race, womanhood and making money. Chase-Riboud is a visual artist who has authored six additional historical fiction novels about women who do not often get their due in traditional history books. I look forward to reading more!

Jennifer recommends:

Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan 

Ana Dakkar is a freshman at Harding-Pencroft, a five-year high school in which the best marine scientists, navigators, and underwater explorers in the world graduate.  While the freshman class heads to a ship for their final exam, Ana and her schoolmates witness a terrible tragedy, which will change their lives forever.  The professor accompanying the class informs the students that Harding-Pencroft has been fighting a cold war with their rival school, Land Institute, for a hundred and fifty years, involving advanced sea technology.  Ana learns that she is the descendant of the famous Captain Nemo, the Captain Nemo from Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea—and that she is their only hope.  While you won’t find Greek, Roman, or Egyptian gods, goddesses, or demigods here, this story definitely has Riordan’s sense of humor!

August 2022 Picks

Vicki recommends:

I love drag, and I love RuPaul, so I was very excited to see a book written by him. When I got the book, I was thrilled because it is chockful of gorgeous photographs of Mama Ru in her finest gowns and looks, and also stuffed with empowering wisdom in bite-size, delectable nuggets. If you want to cry because you feel seen, or laugh out loud at the prospect of praying to Joan Crawford, this book is for you. But it’s not all tulle and fluff; RuPaul is serious about getting the reader to really think about who they are and why they are here, and to embody the understanding that playing it small does a service to no one. As one of RuPaul’s most famous quotes goes, “We’re all born naked and the rest is drag.” In this book, RuPaul takes it one step further, inviting the reader to consider that we are all God in drag. He generously provides tips and tricks to illuminate and polish that drag for personal success and to change the world.

Jennifer recommends:

Something Wilder by Christina Lauren 

Duke Wilder was a notorious treasure hunter and absentee father to his daughter, Lily.  Now, Lily uses her father’s coveted hand-drawn maps to guide tourists on fake treasure hunts through the red rock canyons of Utah through her company, Wilder Adventures.  When Leo Grady, the man Lily once loved, shows up on one of her tours with his buddies, Lily is thrown.  Lily and Leo are drawn back together when the trip goes horribly and hilariously wrong—and they realize the idea of Duke’s hidden treasure wasn’t so crazy after all.  This is a different kind of book than duo Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings normally write (and I’ve read them all!)  Saddle up for this new adventure romance and explore the beautiful red rock canyons along the way!

Peggy recommends:

The Last to Vanish by Megan Miranda

Six visitor disappearances from Cutter’s Pass has given this scenic town on the edge of Appalachia the reputation of the “most dangerous town in North Carolina”. Hikers come to the Passage Inn to begin their trek to the Appalachian Trail or just to get close to the mountains and enjoy the outdoors. When the brother of the seventh vanished hiker arrives late one rainy night, the Passage Inn manager, Abby Lovett, is hesitant to help with his inquiries. But she wants answers too and when it looks like the disappearances may involve people she knows, she finds herself deeply entrenched in the investigation.

I have enjoyed Megan Miranda’s novels since I first read All the Missing Girls and The Last to Vanish does not disappoint.

July 2022 Picks

Dan recommends:

The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang

The Wangs vs the World by Jade Chang takes a cynical look at sudden wealth and the hazards of risking it all.  Charles Wang was a brilliant entrepreneur whose cosmetics empire goes bust when banks refuse his plans to expand. He puts his house and family’s wealth on the line. Great road trip and siblings novel!

 

Jennifer recommends:

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir 

Ryland Grace is the sole survivor on a desperate, dangerous mission to save Earth and all of humanity.  But right now, he doesn’t know that—he doesn’t even remember his own name.  All he knows is that he’s been asleep for a very long time.  He’s just awoken to find himself lightyears from home, with his dead crewmates as company.  Alone, Grace begins to remember his mission and cobbles together scientific experiments to survive and solve his mission.  Together with an unexpected friend and ally he meets in space, Grace just might have a chance to save the world—and maybe even the entire universe.  Reminiscent of Weir’s first novel, The Martian, Project Hail Mary is a story of discovery, science, and survival—with Weir’s dry humor thrown in.  I find that Weir excels at writing stories with his sole protagonist thrust into dangerous situations in space.

Peggy recommends:

Ten Steps to Nanette by Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby rocked the stand-up comedy world when, during her Nanette show, she declared she was quitting comedy by renouncing self-deprecation, rejecting misogyny, and taking hold of the moral power of telling the truth. In Ten Steps to Nanette, Hannah recites her story of growing up queer in Tasmania, where being homosexual was illegal until 1997. She writes about her late in life diagnosis of autism and ADHD and how it has changed her life and her earlier perspectives. I highly recommend you read the book. Better yet, listen to the audiobook, read by Hannah herself. It’s funny yet powerfully serious.

Kim recommends:

The! Greatest! Of! Marlys! is a collection featuring the most memorable character of Lynda Barry’s long-running comic strip, Ernie Pook’s Comeek.  Marlys is surrounded by family, neighbors, teachers, friends, frenemies, shopkeepers, etc., some of which are overlapping categories.  At times, her teenage sister Maybonne or her cousin Arna will take up the narration (yes, some of the names are a little off-center), but buck-toothed, bespectacled, plump, and very opinionated Marlys is the star overall.  Some strips form a short story arc, while some are one-offs, often in the form of school assignments.
The setting is mostly the mid-’60s to mid-’70s, with an authentic eye for detail, but the subject is most often the eternal emotions of childhood: amusement, joy, glee, sorrow, compassion, jealousy, anger, fear, guilt, confusion, and certainty.  The art style is somehow both messy and precise, with many details.  I read this as an eBook and it’s not in the print collection, so I recommend zooming in to the largest size and going back and forth to absorb as much as you can.  It’s worth it just to see things like minuscule-lettered explanations and teeny-tiny (as Marlys would say) one-worded word balloons.

 

Michael recommends:

Immune: a Journey into the Mysterious System that Keeps You Alive by Philipp Dettmer

Immune is a beautifully illustrated story of how your immune system responds to external and internal threats. Phillipp Dettmer masterfully articulates the complex ways that our body responds to bacteria, allergies, and cancer. Whether you are a regular science nerd or curious about the subject, this book is a wonderful entry point into the world of immunology.

 

Jasmine recommends:

Six kids who aren’t entirely human are taken away from the government facility they have known as home and find themselves on the run from forces that want to use them for their unusual abilities. This is one of my favorite kinds of stories, the found family of misfits trying to survive on the road together. The characters are engaging and the story is full of adventure, magic, and heart.

 

Vicki recommends:

July is Disability Pride month, and this book from longtime disability justice activist Piepzna-Samarasinha is a perfect read to celebrate the movement and the work of Black, Brown and Indigenous women and femmes within it. Filled with history, personal stories, strategies for survival and a call to action, this powerful work is an engaging read for everyone. Care Work is the kind of book that one can read multiple times and continue to find beautiful and challenging gems of wisdom and strength.


June 2022 Picks

Peggy recommends:

The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

Jess needs a place to stay while she waits out her past so she asks her brother, who lives in an apartment in Paris, if she can crash with him. However, when she arrives, he is nowhere to be seen. After making several unsettling discoveries in the apartment, Jess decides to approach the other tenants of this posh apartment building, to see if they know where Ben might be. But the apartment isn’t the only thing with dark secrets and Jess soon realizes that, not only may Ben be in peril, but she may be as well.

I don’t usually recommend books or authors that use the same proverbs twice in one story but this one is all right and I’ll forgive her this time. It’s a quick, easy read that has a bit of a twist thrown in at the end. Let me know what you think.

Case Histories by Kate Atkinson

Private Investigator, Jackson Brodie, is investigating three seemingly unconnected cold cases only to find they oddly intersect. But the real draw here is the characters. Kate Atkinson creates some very intense, rich characters in all of her books. Jackson Brodie is no different.

 

 

Case Histories (Series 1 & 2) (DVD)

If you like the book, you might like the DVD starring Jason Isaacs, of Harry Potter fame. Both are worth the time.

 

 

Jennifer recommends:

The Maid by Nita Prose

Molly Grey is socially awkward and interprets what people say literally.  Molly takes great pride in her work as a hotel maid.  Her unique personality, proper etiquette, and obsessive love of cleaning make her an ideal maid.  Molly’s orderly life is turned upside down when she enters the suite of wealthy Charles Black, only to find the rooms a mess and Mr. Black dead in bed.  Molly’s odd character has the police targeting her as their lead suspect.  Fortunately, Molly’s motley group of friends from the hotel are there to help her prove her innocence.  This is a delightful cozy mystery by debut author Nita Prose.

John recommends:

A Grave Denied by Dana Stabenow

This book is a sequel to The Singing of The Dead, in which, mourning the death of her lover, Kate Shugak isolated herself from friends and family.  In this book, Kate assumes the responsibility for caring and raising the teenage son of her deceased lover.  After several murders and an arson, Kate’s ancestral family home is replaced by a community effort that is worth the whole book to read about.  It made me feel good and gave hope that there are places where this can happen. Enjoy

 

Kim recommends:

Robin by Dave Itzkoff

Robin is a 2018 biography of the talented, troubled, and complicated comedian we lost in 2014.  The book goes from Robin Williams’s surprisingly privileged but lonely childhood on through his career as both stand-up comic and serious actor, with everything in between, as well as his three marriages and his fatherhood to three children.  Itzkoff is balanced, showing Williams’s talents but admitting that not all of his projects were successful artistically or commercially, and admitting his flaws as a human being but also revealing his modesty and generosity.  There’s also quite a bit about some of his long-standing friendships, like with Christopher Reeve and Billy Crystal.  This was my second read of the book and Robin Williams continued to surprise me.


May 2022 Staff Picks

Jennifer recommends:

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

Linus Baker is a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youths (DICOMY).  He visits orphanages that house magical children and reports back with his recommendation to either keep the orphanage open or close it down, following the strict guidelines set in the DICOMY handbook.  Linus’ world is turned on its head when he is called to the offices of Extremely Upper Management and sent to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where dangerous Level 4 children reside: Talia, a garden gnome with a penchant for digging graves; Theodore, a wyvern who loves to collect buttons for his hoard; Phee, a forest sprite under the tutelage of Zoe, the water sprite who owns the island; Sal, a large boy who shifts into a Pomeranian when frightened; Chauncey, an unidentified green blob with a dream of being a hotel bellhop; and Lucifer, “Lucy,” the Antichrist who struggles with his dreams of doom and gloom.  Linus soon realizes that the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps; Arthur Parnassus, Master of the orphanage may have his own secrets.  Klune has weaved together an enchanting, quirky, and humorous tale.  My only disappointment is that there doesn’t seem to be a sequel in the works!

Jasmine recommends:

The Girl from the Sea by Molly Knox Ostertag

The Girl from the Sea is an adorable little graphic novel featuring lively art, a heartfelt story, and one of my favorite mythologies. It’s a story about a land girl with big dreams who is struggling to accept herself and a selkie girl who leaps into her life and shakes things up in a way she needs. Love, magic, hilariously accurate group chats, what’s not to enjoy?

 

Peggy recommends:

The Fields by Erin Young

“Some things don’t stay buried”. Indeed, they don’t. And Sergeant Riley Fisher, of all people, knows this is true. When a body is found in the middle of an Iowa cornfield, later identified as a childhood friend from a dark time in her past, Riley finds there is no turning away from the truth A terrific first novel from Erin Young. I look forward to many more.


April 2022 Staff Picks

County Librarian, Deb Fader Samson recommends:

Matrix by Lauren Groff

“This book is unlike any I have ever read. It’s female centric and the protagonist is a tall, lanky, ugly woman in 12th century France. She becomes a nun and accomplishes much in her 72 years on Earth.
It reminds me of Death Comes for the Archbishop in that it’s set in a religious background and everything happens through the lens of the seasonal duties in an abbey.
It is equally pastoral with beautiful descriptions of scenery and nature. The nuns become very self-sufficient under Marie’s leadership as eventual abbess. It is so refreshing that the protagonist is not a tiny beautiful virtuous maiden, but a real flawed person. It’s a beautiful work, a celebration of the feminine. I recommend it highly.”

Peggy recommends:

The Houseboat by Dana Bahr

I reluctantly recommend this book and when you read it you’ll see why. However, I do recommend it. The writing is unique and this is the first author I’ve read since Stephen King who writes the way I think. Bahr is a descriptive writer but not overly wordy. His descriptions set the tone and some scenes you can feel in your bones. Now, some people (like me) might call this book creepy but here’s the thing…you can’t not read more. It’s that kind of story. The Houseboat is a short read and well worth the afternoon it takes to read it. When you do, stop by the library and let me know what you think.

Slow Horses by Mick Herron

There’s a new AppleTV show based on Mick Herron’s Slough House book series and Slow Horses is the first in the series. Not since John LeCarre have I enjoyed reading espionage books. Mick Herron’s intelligence team are all rejects from MI5 who, normally, investigate menial cases. But, often, these cases tie in with more serious, prominent cases that involve major political and professional players and it’s fun see how these incompetents manage to solve them. The best thing about this series is the humorous dialog, especially between the manager of the team and his underlings. This series is available in digital form either from Libby or Hoopla.

Amie recommends:

Alan Doyle is my favorite everything. And in honor of his upcoming California tour, I recommend his books and CDs. AND his concerts. Just saying.

Where I Belong

Alan Doyle is the nicest man in the world, the most energetic stage presence, and now the author of an hysterical autobiography about a boy growing up in rural Newfoundland. Yeah, Newfoudland. It is brilliant, and once you’ve read it, you will be an Alan Doyle fan and spend the rest of your life traveling around to see him in concert. I promise.

 

A Newfoundlander in Canada

In honor of my Doyle-a-thon this month, I recommend Alan’s sophomore book. Alan Doyle is the former lead singer of Great Big Sea and my most favoritest of all things not related to me. If you don’t know of Mr. Doyle, this will book is a great treat, taking you on tour with the boys, and if you do know Mr. Doyle, well, there you go. You will love it, and you will love him. Maybe enough to join us on part of the tour.

 

Boy on Bridge (CD & electronic sources)

His first solo album away from Great Big Sea. Sad face. The album is great, I just miss the boys from Great Big Sea.

 

So Let’s Go (CD & electronic sources)

A fantastic sophomore offer with the amazing Shine On. You should listen to this all day every day. You would smile more. I swear.

 

Kim recommends:

Messy Roots: A Graphic Memoir of a Wuhanese-American is Laura Gao’s funny, poignant, and colorful story of growing up in China and the U.S., and juggling all of her identities. She addresses all sorts of prejudice, including during the early days of Covid, but this is not just a “message” book. There are silly moments, too, especially with her cousins and younger brother. She is honest about her own mistakes but she also shares her triumphs. The artwork is colorful and in itself ranges from bittersweet to gorgeous to playful. This graphic nonfiction book is recommended for teens and older.

 

Jennifer recommends:

The Reading List by Sarah Nisha Adams

When Aleisha discovers a crumpled-up list of novels she’s never heard of in the back of To Kill a Mockingbird at the local library, she decides to read them all. When Mukesh arrives at the library looking to connect with his bookworm granddaughter, Aleisha recommends books from the list. The shared books create a connection between the two: Aleisha, who is trying to escape the hardships at home, and Mukesh, who is grieving the loss of his wife. Adams has done a wonderful job weaving the themes and storylines of the novels on the reading list with the storylines of Aleisha and Mukesh.


March 2022 Staff Picks

Amie recommends:

The Nature of Water and Air by Regina McBride

A beautiful, haunting tale of a forlorn woman braving the beautiful, haunting earth that is Ireland.

 

 

Double Feature:

Darby O’Gill and the Little People

The Secret of Roan Inish

My favorite St. Patrick’s Day traditions.

 

 

Kim recommends:

Animal City by Joan Negrescolor

Animal City is on the surface a whimsical picture book with vivid, surprising colors (like a maroon and aqua elephant) and a story of a girl who likes to read aloud to her animal friends, who all have their favorite genres.  (The monkeys are sci-fi fans, with “stories about other worlds: journeys to the moon, escapades in outer space, and alien adventures.”)  This book itself would work as a read aloud for ages 2 to 6, but older children, of maybe 7 to 10, would enjoy speculating about the world that these animals inhabit, in a city abandoned by its humans, where shoes sprout weeds and old computers, cars, and even buildings lie in ruins.  A beautiful, melancholy and yet hopeful story, celebrating the importance of stories and friendship.

Jennifer recommends:

If You Ask Me (And of Course You Won’t) by Betty White

If You Ask Me is one of the last memoirs written by the lovable Betty White.  Drawing from a lifetime of lessons learned, award-winning actress and animal advocate Betty White tackles topics like friendship, love, aging, television, animals, and celebrity.  Full of hilarious anecdotes and beautiful photos, this is a must read!

 

Peggy recommends:

The Lyrics, 1956 to the present Volumes 1 & 2 by Paul McCartney

I shouldn’t have to explain why I selected this but, you can probably figure it out. Not only do you get ALL the lyrics but you get ALL the lowdown on how they came about. A fascinating and quirky “autobiography” that’s well worth the time and having crushed on Paulie since I was 8 years old, this was my little piece of heaven.

 

 

Agatha Raisin (DVD)

If you’ve read the books by M. C. Beaton, you know Agatha Raisin is a different kind of sleuth. But Ashley Jensen’s portrayal of Agatha brings M.C.’s unlikely, offbeat private detective to life and, mingled with all the other eccentric characters, makes this series a pure delight.

 

 


February 2022 Staff Picks

John recommends:

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

After over 100 pages I got the large print edition…much easier to see. This page turner has good character development and eagerly anticipated events and incidents. The narrative character, Count Alexander Rostov, had been sentenced to an indefinite sentence at a fine hotel across from the Kremlin, under house arrest. I decline to be a spoiler, but it gets really interesting nay, fascinating with such incidents as caring for a girl whose mother the Count knew when she was a little girl. International intrigue, musical prodigy, and clever strategies for escape or evasion. And so much more! The hotel is shown to be a functioning fully involved community. Enjoy

Jasmine recommends:

Explorer: the mystery boxes edited by Kazu Kibuishi

A graphic novel anthology, featuring seven stories in seven fun and beautiful art styles. Each story features a mysterious box of some sort, and the ensuing adventures take you under the floorboards, into space, and into other worlds entirely.

 

 

Amie recommends:

Night of the Mannequins by Stephen Graham Jones

Not that I ever needed someone to tell me this, but in case you do: NEVER BEFRIEND AN ABANDONED MANNEQUIN YOU FIND IN THE CULVERT BEHIND YOUR FRIEND’S HOUSE. A quick, easy read from my seemingly new favorite author, he is odd and spectacular all at once.

 

Resident Alien (DVD)

OH EM SQUEEE! My new favorite TV show about an extraterrestrial stranded in rural Colorado forced to be the town’s doctor. If you come into the library and accidentally mention anything remotely affiliated with this show, you will be stuck for an hour and 32 minutes listening to me go on and on about it. You have been warned.

 

Jennifer recommends:

Hideaway by Nora Roberts

Caitlyn Sullivan comes from a long line of famous Hollywood actors.  An emerging star herself at ten, she was still an innocent child who loved to play hide-and-seek with her cousins at her family’s home in Big Sur.  During one of those games, Caitlyn disappeared.  With her smart, resourceful, and quick thinking, Cate was able to escape her captors and managed to find refuge in a nearby farmhouse.  Dillon Cooper was shocked to find bloodied, terrified Cate in his family’s kitchen in the middle of the night.  As the reader follows Cate’s story of the years, it is revealed that the trauma from that night is far from over.  Cate returns to Big Sur to face her past and is reunited with Dillon, the boy (now man) who helped her many years ago—and she confronts the person she loved who betrayed her.  This is a story about the families we are born into and the families we make.  True to Nora Roberts’ fashion, Hideaway is a story packed with increasing suspense and heartwarming romance.

Peggy recommends:

Maus I & II by Art Spiegelman

A 1992 Pulitzer Prize winning graphic novel, Maus tells the story of the author’s relationship with his father, a Holocaust survivor, and depicts Jews as mice and Nazis as cats. A visual, moving portrayal of the effects of the Holocaust. Everyone should read Maus I and Maus II. Everyone.

 

Something to Hide by Elizabeth George

Finally, the new Inspector Lynley/Sergeant Havers book has arrived and it was well worth the wait! A politically charged murder investigation full of our favorite dysfunctional characters, what more could one expect from one of our best-loved authors? And with a surprise ending to boot!

 

Brokenwood Mysteries (DVD & Hoopla streaming)

Detective Mike Shepherd, in his 1971 classic car, old country western cassettes and an intuitive way of solving murders, arrives in a small town to work with an assistant who is twenty years younger than his car and a by-the-book detective. This series from New Zealand is fun and refreshing.


January 2022 Picks

Kim recommends:

From Here to There & Back Again by Sue Hubbell

From Here to There & Back Again is a charming collection of essays about the beauty and absurdity of things that some people take for granted, from butterflies and mustard plants to pie and bowling shoes.  Whether she’s visiting quirky small towns and busy New York streets, or exploring her own farm in the Ozarks, she is a quiet but keen observer of details.  She also offers little told tales of history, like the “honey war” between Missouri and Iowa and the colorful turn-of-the-century journalist known as “Polly Pry.”  The essays are all connected by her wry but generous spirit.

Recommended for adults, but reflective teens with an offbeat sense of humor would also enjoy this book, particularly the piece on supermarket tabloids.  (I can only imagine what Hubbell, who died in 2018, fourteen years after this collection was published, made of the Internet.)

Gussy by Jimmy Cajoleas

Gussy is a Western fantasy novel, with a plucky, very imperfect heroine who comes into her own while also learning how to rely on others.  She lives in a small desert town, working as a protector with her mentor, Grandpa Widow.  When he’s called away from the village, she has to keep everyone safe, but she may not be up to the job.  The story has humor and warmth, as well as some genuinely scary and creepy scenes.  It’s not always clear to Gussy or the reader who’s good and who’s evil.  And there’s a sidekick dog, Cricket, who can cause trouble and save the day.  Recommended for ages ten and up, maybe a little younger for read-aloud.

Peggy recommends:

The Last Shadow by Orson Scott Card

The long awaited conclusion to both the Ender series and the Ender’s Shadow series, The Last Shadow brings us the children of Ender and Bean, who solve the problem of the great virus that threatens all living things in the Starways Congress. Is the solution another Xenocide?

Definitely a bittersweet read as these two great series’ draw to a close. If you are a fan of either, this is a must read.

In remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr:

King in the Wilderness (DVD)

Through personal stories from people who were around him, this film follows MLK, Jr in the last years of his life. Powerful, moving documentary. I highly recommend this DVD.

I Have a Dream (DVD)

Contains MLK, Jr’s entire August 28, 1963 I Have a Dream speech, The Big March (1963), The March on Washington (1963) (both through rare footage) and The March, Twenty Years Later (1983)

 

Jasmine recommends:

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson

I love all that I’ve seen of Noelle Stevenson’s work and this book is no exception. It’s a graphic novel and it’s about a villain who somewhat reluctantly takes on a young shape-shifter as his sidekick.  A heartfelt little story with a cast of well-written characters and relationships. A very cool art style brings this fantasy/sci fi world to life. Also, there be dragons, so that’s always a plus.

 

Jennifer recommends:

A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti

The reader is first introduced to Annabelle when she abandons her takeout dinner and just starts running.  Annabelle refuses to go home, so she decides that she will run from her hometown of Seattle, Washington to Washington, D.C.  As the story unfolds, we learn that Annabelle is running from the grief, guilt, and horror of a tragedy that took place last year, perpetrated by someone Annabelle refers to as “The Taker.”  She originally embarks on her journey alone to process her trauma, but her family and friends form a support system that keeps her going.  Her mother calls her three times a day to check in; her brother and her two friends set up a GoFundMe to fund Annabelle’s run; and her grandfather follows her along on her trip in his RV, watching over her every step of the way.  Annabelle runs into people along her route who heard about her run and show up to support her, showing Annabelle that there are still good, kind people in the world.  This is a wonderfully written contemporary young adult novel of healing, mending a broken heart, and reclaiming your voice.  A Heart in a Body in the World is a poignant, timely, and beautiful look at the world we live in today.

Amie recommends:

Such a Pretty Fat: One Narcissist’s Quest to Discover If Her Life Makes Her Ass Look Big, Or Why Pie Is Not the Answer by Jen Lancaster

Coming into 2022 with my halfway expiration date nearing, I turn to humor and weight loss to get me through the next horrific year. Jen Lancaster is hilarious! And reading her books gives my heart the cardio workout it needs just from laughter.

 

Soylent Green (DVD)

Set in 2022, yeah, you read that right. Soylent Green is now! Being a vegetarian, this is something I can get behind. If you haven’t seen it, get yourself a bucket of popcorn and enjoy. If you have seen it, well, you know.

 

John recommends:

Moo by Jane Smiley

This look at fictional Midwestern university life and ethics is amusing and has an unusual ending.


December 2021 Picks

Kim recommends:

Snakes in Space by Kathryn Dennis

The picture book Snakes in Space continues the saga of the brightly colored, adventurous snakes of Snakes on a Train. This time five serpentine astronauts journey past stars, planets, and meteors to work on their space station, but one ends up traveling onward to where no snake has gone before. There’s an endearing absurdity to this story, where creatures without opposable thumbs, or even hands, manage to operate heavy machinery. Dennis’s illustrations are somehow both playful and earnest, her text clear but sometimes punning, as with “Snakes splash through the Milky Way with no cookies to dunk.” Recommended as a read-aloud to ages 2 to 6.

No Humans Allowed! by Madeleine Roux

No Humans Allowed! is a fun first entry in the new Dungeon Academy series.  Zellidora “Zelli” Stormclash is a human raised by minotaurs, and she’s a student at a school full of the kinds of monsters found in Dungeons & Dragons games.  She has trouble fitting in, until she has an adventure with a group of misfits: a kindly owlbear, a brash little kobold, and a know-it-all mimic who can turn into books, lanterns, etc.  The story is good, but the real standout here is the detailed but accessible illustrations by Tim Probert, which capture a range of facial expressions from wistfulness to terror, and settings from a lunchroom to, yes, dungeons.  Recommended for both boys and girls ages 8 to 12, although it might work as a read-aloud for kids 5 to 7, if they don’t mind skeletons and mind-controlling purple goo.

Jennifer recommends:

Just Listen by Sarah Dessen

Last year, Annabel Green was “the girl who had everything” – at least that’s the part she played in the back-to-school commercial for Kopf’s Department Store.  This year, Annabel is the girl who has nothing.  Her mom has become a different person since Annabel’s grandmother’s death.  Annabel’s oldest sister has moved out, and her other sister is suffering from anorexia.  She has no friends since mean-but-popular Sophie dropped her.  The only person that Annabel feels a connection with is another high school loner, Owen Armstrong.  Music-obsessed Owen is a reformed bad boy with a commitment to truth-telling.  With Owen’s help, Annabel learns to listen to her own voice.  She may even finally have the courage to speak up about what happened to her at that fateful party last summer.

Peggy recommends:

Last House on Nameless Street by Catriona Ward

Bannerman, an alcoholic with memory issues, Olivia, a Bible loving cat and Lauren, a teenage girl who cannot go outside, are a unique family living in a boarded up house at the end of a deserted street. Normally, they go about their business without many changes. That is, until a nosy new neighbor moves in and they begin living in fear of what she will discover, especially what’s buried in the backyard. Last House on Nameless Street was one of the most bizarre, yet captivating, books I’ve read in a long time. Not since The Wrong Family have I been on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what the secret will reveal and this book did not disappoint. I hope you’ll find it as captivating.

Premonition: a pandemic story by Michael Lewis

“Fortunately, there are those among us who study pandemics and are willing to look unflinchingly at worst-case scenarios.” When the good judge recommended this book, I thought, “naw, I don’t like to read non-fiction and the pandemic is still too prominent”. But, I ordered it anyway and, wow, what an eye-opener! A non-fiction book that reads like a thriller, Premonition is a behind the scenes look at what went down and why we are still battling this disease nearly 2 years later. An absolute page turner. I highly recommend!

 

Amie recommends:

Turn of the Screw by Henry James

In true Christmas spirit, the Turn of the Screw is a terrifying tale about a nanny convinced the home where she is working is haunted. Though written in 1898, this freaking story scared me enough to sleep with the lights on. Truth be told, not “sleep” with the lights on.

 

 

Elf (DVD)

SANTA!

Elf is one of only two things that made me happy during my brief stay in Texas.

 

Jasmine recommends:

The Hogfather by Terry Pratchett

This is the first Terry Pratchett book I ever read and I have been hooked ever since. His writing is hilarious, endearing, and so very clever. This book is essentially a Christmas story, and the Hogfather is this world’s version of Santa Claus. Someone wants him assassinated, and when he goes missing while he’s supposed to delivering the Christmas presents, Death decides to step up and fill in for him. This book has so many wonderful characters, Death is fantastic, as is his granddaughter, Mr. Teatime (the assassin) is a delightfully chilling character, the group of bumbling wizards and their orangutan librarian are adorable, the list goes on. I think this book is a great introduction to the world of Terry Pratchett, and seasonal as a bonus!

November 2021 Picks

County Librarian, Deb Fader Samson, recommends:

The Valedictorian of Being Dead by Heather B. Armstrong

Like me, Heather Armstrong felt a compunction to be the best at whatever she did, which ultimately added to her despair at not being able to handle single motherhood and be successful at work as well. She joked that if she was going to do something, she was going to be the valedictorian at doing it; hence the title. She is unflinching in her honesty and grateful with the results. I found the book hard to put down. It does a great job of explaining what depression feels like to those who have not experienced it.

A year after her divorce, Helen lets her annoying (much) younger brother, Duncan, talk her into a three-week life-changing wilderness survival course.  It’s supposed to be an opportunity for Helen to pull herself together.  What she doesn’t count on is Duncan’s equally annoying best friend, Jake, enrolling in the same course. Helen is in for an adventure: three weeks in the remote wilderness of a mountain range in Wyoming, mosquito infestations, a surprise summer blizzard, a group of sorority