New 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
Good Night, Little Bookstore by Amy Cherrix
A forgotten hat and a pair of glasses all get wished good night as readers get a peek behind the scenes at the work booksellers do to prepare for the opening the next day. The artwork has beautifully established details and emphasizes that bookstores are for every person and every interest. Great addition to a young person’s personal library (Picture book ages 4 – 8)
Nomads: The Wanderers Who Shaped Our Worlds by Anthony Sattin
Author Sattin tells the historical story of the life-and-death rivalry between farmers and roving pastoralists, noting literary, historical and anthropological references that make this book so incredibly interesting. He describes one of the earliest cities known to history was apparently never meant to be lived in; it was a place for the gods. He actually builds a legitimate argument for keeping our nomadic instincts intact as climate changes and nomadic ways are less damaging to the planet. Thought provoking. If you’ve read The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity by David Graebe, you’ll love this. You’ll probably love it anyways!
One of Our Kind by Nicola Yoon
A psychological horror novel that is a cross between Rosemary’s Baby and The Stepford Wives. The action centers around the city, Liberty, an upscale, all-Black enclave outside of Los Angeles. Jasmyn is excited to join and raise her soon-to-be born child there, but soon finds herself questioning her sense of self as a Black woman. Hard to put this one down!
For all of us visual and spatial learners—actually for all types of learners—this is a thoughtful examination of the mind works. I found it fascinating and Educators will love this book by Temple Grandin.
Nathan’s Pick
Journey to the West by Wu Cheng’en
While not many in the West have read Journey To The West, I firmly believe it is one of the most influential stories ever written. Originally written in 1592 by Wu Cheng’en, the story follows Xuanzang, a Buddhist Monk and his posse of friends on their journey to find sacred scriptures. Joining him on his journey to what is now India is the ever-charming Son Wukong, the monkey god, who values freedom above all else. Aside from the plot, the novel gives an excellent portrayal of the values and beliefs of ordinary people in 16th century China, almost like a Chinese answer to The Odyssey. With plenty of Buddhist, Taoist, and ancient Chinese mythology, it’s certainly a story that stays with you.
Whether or not you know the story, you’ve definitely seen its legacy. Two stand out examples are Akira Toriyama’s ever-iconic Dragon Ball, a loose adaptation of the original novel, starring the spiky-haired Son Goku. Another is the recently released video game “Black Myth Wukong”, which has had over 2.2 million concurrent players, becoming the most played single-player game of all time.
Wendy’s Picks
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
In a story that is both touching and hilarious, we follow the bizarre circumstance of a complete stranger who is unexpectedly drawn into the epicenter of a lavish wedding, in the midst of dealing with her own very crippling emotional baggage.This is an entirely enjoyable read that speaks to the chance encounters that can change the course of our lives – and what it means to move past pain toward healing in order to move forward.
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
In the lovely, small town of Monte Clare, MO, young girls are disappearing. Our unlikely hero is Patch – a sensitive, endearing young misfit from the poor side of town. His best friend and constant companion, Saint, becomes obsessed with solving the mystery. Set in the mid 1970’s, this is a riveting story of mystery, tragedy, romantic love, family ties and heartbreak. The characters are fully developed and will stay with you.This beautifully crafted novel of twists and turns is one you will not be able to put down.
Skye’s Picks
With its gripping storyline and supernatural elements, Ninth House is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Filled with twists and turns of thrilling adventure, suspenseful mysteries, and a touch of the occult. The story revolves around a young woman Alana, who is tasked with uncovering the truth about her family’s past. With the help of a charming boy, Mark, Alana embarks on a journey that will lead her through the supernatural world of vampires, witches, and werewolves. This book is perfect for anyone who loves fantasy, the paranormal, and thriller genres.
The River That Wolves Moved by Mary Kay Carson & Illustrated by David Hohn
Based in the beautiful park of Yellowstone, this cute story is about how the impact of wolves can change an entire ecosystem and how everything can be connected, from the graceful and powerful elk, to the fish that swim the flow of the river. A beautifully illustrated children’s book about the circle of life, and how some things that seem small can actually have a huge impact on others ways of life. Great book for kids who enjoy nature and liked the lion king!
