Every month we let you know what we’ve been reading and our monthly recommendations. You’ll get to see new titles with fabulous reviews from the Bay Books team. We’re sure you’ll love these fantastic books just as much as we do. We recommend a wide range of genres and themes. So get ready to explore more books!
Tina’s Staff Picks
I had heard a bit of Zelda’s story, regarding Fitzgerald’s plagiarism of her written letters, etc., but this book shows a more devious agent at work in undermining her spirit and talents, society. That Scott Fitzgerald was so egotistical as to buy into this shocks me. I’m now immersed in all things written about Zelda and her short life.
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg
In celebration of Banned Book Week (the month at Bay Books!), I thought I would read and re-read some books that have been around for a while. This one has been around for a LONG time and I have never read it before. Probably a good thing because great tips on how to hide in a museum are in there and I certainly would have tried them in my childhood. As it was, my ‘running away’ adventure was short lived and not successful (never runaway to your parent’s friend’s house!). These kids are smart because they plan it out and know that they can occupy their time with learning while living in the art museum, as well as solve a mystery. Then they will go home. The end. But along the way, they make new friends, learn new appreciation for family and learn their own limitations/expectations for life. (Grades 4 – 6)
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
This female empowerment book tells it like it was, and probably still is in some places, through the eyes of determined Chemist, Elizabeth Zott. For some of us who went through this time period, there are triggers but the book handles this beautifully through Elizabeth’s story. Her nonsensical approach to gender roles and logical observations inherent within them makes for some humor. She makes great good sense!
Loved it.
Autumn’s Staff Picks
This graphic novel adaptation of Atwood’s canonized novel is a beautiful rendition of the story. The artwork is striking, and the narrative retains the original structure of the story. It is a quick read that lingers with you. Great for fans of Atwood’s original novel and for folks who might find the novel inaccessible!
The Truth Will Set You Free But First It Will Piss You Off by Gloria Steinem
This little volume is basically an inspirational bedside table book for feminists– and that’s a compliment! It is a collection of Steinem’s most iconic quotes, along with short essays expanding on selected quotes and gorgeous artwork by Samantha Dion Baker. It is the perfect book to flip open when the trash fires of the world have got ya down and you need a little motivation to keep fighting.
Marshall’s Picks
This is how it always is by Laurie Frankel
The story of a family who learns that their youngest son may be a girl. An emotional and compelling read… one that stays with you for a long time. Especially for those ally-friendly readers who want to learn more about transexuality.
