January Staff Picks

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 Picks

Rare Birds by Jeff Miller

A coming-of-age story where a young man sees there are things bigger than himself. How better to learn the value of life than a new friend and a rare bird? A very nice middle grade read with the right amount of wonder, turmoil, adventure, and self-love. (Young Adult)

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

An unlikely plot with unlikely protagonists, an abandoned boy, a grieving mother, and a giant Pacific octopus, form an unlikely friendship that uncovers past mysteries. The voice of Marcellus, the octopus, is wonderfully sardonic as he tries to steer these friends toward the truth, using his remarkably bright brain. All set in northwest Washington on the Puget Sound, Marcellus from his tank in an aquarium becomes a hero in his short lifespan. I definitely recommend this!

Save Me from Dangerous Men by S. A. Lelchuk

As a bookstore owner, the first line of the description hooked me “Nikki Griffin loves books.”. But the main character, Nikki Griffin, is much more. She is highly skilled and trained in the art of detective work and makes it her special task to be protective of women who are abused and to help them, sometimes without their knowledge, seek a fair and equitable revenge. The main story line, interspersed with mini-vignettes of her helping women, is when her sense of justice is manipulated by someone who uses it for his own benefit. Nasty business. It’s a great read and hey! It involves (a little bit) a bookstore!

Dress Whites: Poetry by Richard Loftus

Richard Loftus has written a book of poetry that is meant to be read and shared with  a group of folks who engage in thoughtful, well, thoughts! It’s perfect for group discussion as well as for personal meditations. It prompts memories and emotions very easily. He uses the imagery of everyday life to draw out and bring voice to inner turmoil and sometimes, sadness. 

Sometimes I Grumblesquinch by Rachel Vail

Beautifully illustrated with excellent expressions from a little girl who is a very good girl—-everyone says so!—-but sometimes, just sometimes, her little brother just gets on her last nerve and she grumblesquinches. This story shows how it’s okay to express yourself and still be loved. That being ‘good’ does not equal ‘love’. That sometimes we just have to let our humanity show and that home is a safe place to do that. Sweet and charming. (Picture book)

Shop More Books

Looking for something particular? Search our website with ease. If you don’t find what you’re looking for send us an email. We might have it at the store or we’ll be happy to order it for you. If you’re looking for a recommendation, please reach out to us. We love helping you book shop!

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