You’ve asked and we answered. Check out these great books that will inspire you to curl up, cuddle up, and read all day. There’s nothing more magical than the snow falling outside, sitting by the window or in front of the fire place while being snuggled into a warm blanket with a cup of hot coco or coffee as you read a book. Here’s our December picks.
The Invisible Life of Addie Laue by V.E. Schwab. Addie runs to escape an unfortunate marriage in 17th century France. She prays for help but in the darkness, a voice answers that she knows has consequences. Addie accepts a deal without knowing the fine print and is destined to forever live but to also be forgotten. However, Addie is stubborn and clever as the darkness is relentless for the soul he can’t take without her permission. Run with her through the centuries as she does what she must to survive. We land in 21st century America when Addie meets what she lost…….hope. Surprising, complex—a study in human perseverance.
The Age of Skin by Dubravka Ugresic. With biting humor and a multitude of cultural references, the author takes on the dreams and fears of modern life. Also the hope, which we need especially now. I loved reading these essays and kept looking up in surprise to ponder thoughts and actually speak out loud to whomever was around. Fantastic writing and wonderfully translated into English from Ugresic native Croatian.
In the Country of Women by Susan Straight. A lyrical account of the complex system of kinship and clan told through the social history of the author, her husband’s family (and their struggles) and their strong female ancestors. Some women escaped violence in post-slavery Tennessee, some escaped murder in Jim Crow Mississippi,and some struggling as immigrants from Switzerland. There are lessons here, and Straight’s stories give those to us. Good book club pick.
Refugee by Alan Gratz. Three young people, separated by continents and decades, search for freedom and refuge from prejudice, religious persecution, and threats of death. Their dangerous journeys and obstacles they must face to achieve refuge are all fueled by the drive for a better tomorrow. Surprising connections will tie their stories together in the end. Gratz is a master at writing historical fiction for young adults and this book is no exception. Timely and well written, it will help young people make sense of today’s refugee crisis.
Something Happened in our Town by Marianna Celano. Following a police shooting, two families — one White and one Black — discuss the event, its aftermath, and what they can do to help. What makes this book unique are all the tips and suggestions for parents and caregivers to help with their own discussions as well as vocabulary and guidelines for those discussions. The illustrations also add a great deal to the storyline, giving emotion to the words that the page is presenting. Would be a super addition to a classroom library!
Wintercake by Lynne Rae Perkins. This will always be an annual favorite, especially as we approach the time to make wintercake! The charming story of friendship, jumping to conclusions, knowing you are forgiven and making new friends is a story that will never grow old. Add to the charming prose of Perkins are her equally charming illustrations that make you feel homey, even in the midst of a snowstorm which sends Lucy to a tearoom where she “jumps to her conclusion”!! You really want to be there with her, sipping hot cocoa and eating sweet nibbles. Also included in our signed copies is the recipe for wintercake, a cake that is becoming a tradition in our home. Wonderful gift for Christmas!
