Staff Picks Archives

May 5, 2025 by B

May 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!

Friends of Bay Books Picks

Review written by Karin J.

All Fours by Miranda July

Have you ever had the feeling that parts of your life are humming along fine and at the same time other parts are spinning out of control? In All Fours, July’s protagonist, a 45-year old Angelena, a “woman who had success in several mediums at a young age.” tries desperately to discover who she is at this stage in her life. She finds herself veering off what she thought was her path in ways that surprise and amaze her, almost as if she were a character in one of her works. But because she is a writer, she is unflinching about describing her confused state of mind, and her clarity about being confused (amazingly) allows us, as readers, to be swept up in her tumult.

This book is frank about sexuality and desire, belonging, and finding one’s own idiosyncratically-patterned path. Its willingness to look at self-becoming in all of its messiness engages us if we are willing to look with open eyes.

Tina Staff Picks

Can’t we talk about something more Pleasant? by Roz Chast

This wonderful book details, in Chast’s signature visual style, her struggles dealing with her aging parents and their end-of-life issues. Yes, her writing is humorous and the topic is heart wrenching but her practical ways of looking at this subject make this an engaging and valuable book. Highly recommend it!

10 Marchfield Square by Nicola Whyte

Set in Modern-Day London, elderly heiress and landlady Celeste van Duren is determined to prove that she has vetted each apartment dweller carefully and cautiously but when a murder occurs within the small residential square, she knows she may have made a mistake allowing one tenant in with his nasty ways. So with her faithful butler, and two chosen tenants, she investigates on her own. Well, of course, we soon see, everyone is hiding something!

Tell Them You Lied by Laura Leffler

What a beginning! Pranking a friend with a mugging attack, accidently on the same day as the 9-11 attacks, comes about and where have the main characters planned this prank to take place? Near the Twin Towers and when Anna and her friends don’t hear from Willow, they don’t know if this is a prank gone badly wrong, one that really happened, or is she a victim of 9-11? Beneath this is some serious emotional and obsessive angst. Figuring out who dunnit, as well as what was done, makes this a fast and fascinating read. How do people think up these plots that are so nerve wracking and nail biting?!!

Wendy’s Staff Pick

City of Night Birds by Juhea Kim

Former prima ballerina, Natalia Leonora, returns to her home city of St Petersburg and the complex world of Russian ballet that was her ticket out of poverty to fame, her personal passion, and quite nearly her very un-doing. Natalia left ballet after an accident that ended her career, leading her to turn to pills and alcohol to numb the pain of her past. Now, she has an opportunity to dance again – if her body and her mental health will allow it. Natalia must face her past – her complicated relationship with her mother, the father who abandoned her, her former lovers, rivals and friends. The author transports us to the world of professional ballet, with all of it’s inherent glamor, politics and pain. This is a stunning commentary on personal strength, love, forgiveness, and the sacrifices required to work as an artist at the top of your craft.

April 16, 2025 by B

April Staff Picks

Friends of Bay Books Picks

Odder by Katherine Applegate
(review written by Charlotte Mills, age 9)
If you like otters, you should read Odder by Katherine Applegate. It is a great book for
most ages, with lots of suspense. My teacher read it to our class in second grade and I
have read it twice since then.
Odder is a young otter who is separated from her family and goes on a journey to find
them. It is a great adventure, including meeting a great white shark!
If you like this book, the author Katherine Applegate has many more, also very good! (Fiction)

Tina’s Staff Picks

Tilt by Emma Pattee

Set over the course of one day, a heart-racing debut about a pregnant woman facing the unimaginable, determined to find safety. Set in the Pacific Northwest, our main character is in an IKEA when “The Really Big One”, the Cascadia Earthquake, hits. As Annie tries to make her way home through the aftermath, all the while addressing her unborn child, Bean, she experiences humanity and realizations that are at once thought provoking and funny. This is a knock premise with enough moving adrenaline that you will finish it in one seating. I sure did! (Speculative Fiction)

By Way of Sorrow by Robyn Gigl

Do you enjoy a good legal thriller? I certainly do and found a new series that I became absolutely hooked and therefore binged my way through all three books of this series, eager for the fourth one to show up at Bay Books. By Way of Sorrow is an original and enthralling legal thriller that showcases how diverse voices enliven and refresh well-worn genres. With non-stop action and legal twists, as far as the case goes and aside from Erin’s insistence on correct terminology to describe her and Sharise’s gender status, they are merely lawyer and client caught up in the flaws in the American legal system which gives politicians power over the judiciary. And we love that. The ending is a surprise and will leave you wanting to read the next legal thriller starring Erin McCabe. (LBGTQ+)

Ultra-Processed People: The Science Behind Food That Isn’t Food by Chris Van Tulleken

In this book, Chris van Tulleken, father, scientist, doctor, and award-winning BBC broadcaster, marshals the latest evidence to show how governments, scientists, and doctors have allowed transnational food companies to create a pandemic of diet-related disease. He explores the origins, science, and economics of Ultra-Processed Food to reveal its catastrophic impact on our bodies and the planet. This is a light read, by any means, but it does shed light on the way food is being produced faster and faster to feed a widening, global appetite. Also, and that it might have addictive traits built in. Truly an interesting and informative read. I appreciated the humor in it once in a while! (Science, Non-Fiction)

Becky’s Staff Pick

Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan
Sports journalist and former professional basketball player, author Kate Fagan tells the
story of a reclusive best-selling author who finally decides to come forward with her
identity. In doing so she shares her life’s story – choosing between relationships and
the pursuit of a dream. She is not proud of all her actions but in telling her story she is
finally ready to accept the truth.
Along the way, Fagan explores complex relationships between women and the limits of
ambition.
How do we balance our public and private selves?
It’s a well written and insightful page turner. (Adult Fiction)

Skye’s Staff Pick

A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Seraphina was born in a shroud, the maiden who’s supposed to be untouched and unknown. She’s also the one who was promised, the one who’s to be the consort to the Primal of death. A plague has been taking its toll on the land and people, killing crops and brining sickness and starvation and there’s only one way to stop it. KILL THE PRIMAL OF DEATH. That’s what Seraphina has been trained to do her whole life, seduce and make him fall in love with her then kill him and the rot stops…or so they thought. Nothing would be that easy in a world of gods and mortals…and not quite mortals too. Nothing is as what it seems and more trouble is awakening. The Flesh and Fire series was a great read as a fantasy lover! I liked the smoothness of the storytelling and the storyline kept things interesting! (Fantasy Fiction)

Wendy’s Staff Pick

The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil. E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg

Claudia is a bored, frustrated, very bright and somewhat bossy 11 year old, looking for an adventure! She is the mastermind of a plan to run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC, and convinces her younger brother, Jamie, to join her. The two resourceful siblings cleverly avoid being discovered by museum staff, sleep in dusty, ancient beds, bathe in the restaurant fountain, educate themselves about the various exhibits, AND uncover a secret! They very helpfully set out to prove that the museum’s newest acquisition is the work of Michaelangelo! This mission introduces the kids to a unique new friend who has an unexpected family connection.

When asked what my favorite childhood book was, this charming classic is always at the top of my list. After being recently gifted with a copy of this book by a friend, I can say that now re-reading it many decades later, it did not disappoint. This Newbery Award Winner is a wonderful story to read to a 6+ aged child, and a great chapter book for mid to later elementary readers.

March 7, 2025 by B

March Staff Picks

Becky’s Staff Pick

Real Americans by Rachel Khong

Rachel Kong weaves three generations, from three different perspectives, into a story of how we become who we are in a profound tale of class and striving, race and visibility, and family and inheritance. Lily, an American born to two Chinese immigrants, is struggling in her career pursuits after college when she meets and falls in love with a white American pharmaceutical heir who is trying to live independently of his family’s wealth. The two struggle with cultural, racial and socio-economical differences in a twisted tale of complicated relationships. Can two people from such different backgrounds make a relationship work? What part do their parents play? And what about children? Along the way you get a taste of Maoist China and the cultural revolution, ethics in science research and an exploration of class and cultural differences. The question is: what does it mean to be a real American? Well worth the read, especially in this time when we look closely at cultural differences.

Tina’s Staff Picks

Sandwich by Catherine Newman

This story follows one family on their annual Cape Cod vacation, during which sandwiches are made, secrets are revealed, and the matriarch, Rocky, must face the realities of her future. Catherine Newman’s writing is so funny and sharp; I loved her insights into motherhood, marriage, and the passage of time (menopause, etc.!). Although it’s set during summertime, this would be the perfect feel-good read for any season.

Dark Laboratory: On Columbus, the Caribbean, and the Origins of the Climate Crisis by Tao Leigh Goffe

In this roving, erudite debut study, Goffe, a professor of literary theory and cultural history at Hunter College, traces the attitudes and beliefs that undergird today’s climate crisis back to the racist, extractive systems of thoughts developed by European colonizers in previous centuries. Beginning with Jamaica and Hong Kong, the ancestral homes of her parents, she ruminates on the relationship between capitalist exploitation, racist hierarchies, Indigenous knowledge, and the land. In poetry and associative prose, which leaps from one idea to another in an ever-widening gyre, she surfaces searing details from around the world that exemplify how the landscapes of colonized countries became ‘primitivized” in the same measure as the inhabitants became ‘otherized’ and how these new racial hierarchies were embodied in one of the colonial ear’s most important extractive industries: the harvesting of bird guano as fertilizer. Much of Goffe’s narrative involves pointing out how deep these systems of thought run in foundational Western texts and ideas: for instance, in a canny reading of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s lyrical writing on how guano could bring agricultural abundance to the Great Plains, she notes that Emerson naturalized the fact of guano’s importation, thus ‘exemplifying how nature writing is often about colonial ambition.” This scintillating study bursts with keen insights and connections. This is another very cool perspective on why these things happened and are still happening.

How to Sell A Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

If you’ve ever read Grady Hendrix, be prepared for the bizarre turn on the normal. Be prepared to start feeling uncomfortable as details unfold. In this book by Hendrix, a woman returns home to bury her parents only to find a spectacularly terrifying blast from the past waiting for her. Puppets. Yes, their parents were puppeteers, and the house is full of them and they seem to be looking back and looking for something. Read this horror story with a big, fluffy blanket!

Wendy’s Picks

Odder by Katherine Applegate

This poignant tale from New York Times best selling author, Katherine Applegate is about a free-spirited otter, and was inspired by a real-life program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in CA, that pairs orphaned otter pups with surrogate mothers. Readers follow Odder’s journey through daredevil playfulness, struggle, bravery and resilience. Written in free verse and enhanced by scientific facts and sweet black and white illustrations, this is a wonderful juvenile fiction story that is accessible and engaging for young animal lovers who are reading at the 4th grade – early middle school level.

More Bay Books

Featured New Arrival

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A fresh chapter begins at Bay Books with our newest arrivals, carefully curated to spark curiosity and celebrate diverse voices. This collection features a wide range of captivating fiction, thought-provoking historical fiction, and powerful LGBTQ+ narratives that offer both escape and reflection. For our youngest readers, we’ve stocked up on […]

Staff Picks

May Staff Picks

Book News

Percival Everett makes it onto the TIMES List of 100 Most Influential People!

Congratulations to our beloved poet and literary darling Percival Everett for joining the ranks of the influential in this year’s TIMES list! You can find your favorite Percival Everett books here at Bay Books, every day, Read further this short article from Cord Jefferson, Oscar winning screenplay writer of American […]

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April Staff Picks

Featured New Arrival

Spring New Arrivals

Our shelves are blooming with fresh arrivals—nonfiction titles that will spark your curiosity and children’s books perfect for young minds in full blossom. Whether you’re diving into a new hobby, exploring the wonders of the world, or cuddling up for a sweet storytime, we’ve got just the read for every […]

Staff Picks

March Staff Picks

February 4, 2025 by B

February Staff Picks

Skye’s Picks

The Knight Owl By: Christopher Denise

Knight Owl by Christopher Denise is a charming children’s book about a young owl named Sir Cedric, who dreams of one day becoming a brave knight. Despite being small and inexperienced, Sit Cedric is determined to make his dream a reality. He sets out to prove himself in knight school, facing challenges that test his bravery and wit. Along the way he finds that strength doesn’t always come to us by sheer muscle or build but by our own character and determination. Facing fears, helping others, and not judging a book by its cover is what this story is all about!

I Love You All Year Round By: Sam McBratney

This classic story follows the lives of Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare, as they share tender moments throughout the seasons, from winter’s chill to the warmth of summer. With beautiful illustrations the book highlights the enduring year-round love between them reinforcing the message that love is constant and unwavering, no matter the time or season.This story is sweet and heartwarming, and would be a perfect children’s book for Valentines Day!

Frostfire By: Elly MacKay

Frostfire is a beautifully illustrated story of two fox sisters, Big sister Miriam and Little sister Celeste. As they set out for a fun day in the snow, Miriam starts telling young Celeste about the beautiful and mysterious snow dragons and how they’re all around us. Celeste isn’t quite convinced of her big sister’s stories until she wanders off alone… in the end both sisters realize they’re may be more magic in their world than they thought. This is a gorgeously illustrated book and the story is really sweet. I can say this has now become one of my favorite children’s books and I’m happy to have read it!

Becky’s Pick

Be Ready when the Luck Happens by Ina Garten

Be Ready When the Luck Happens is a warm and down to earth memoir. It is also a
business guide in the preparation it takes to create a business empire, one that fulfills
your life’s dreams, one step at a time.
If you like to cook, and maybe like Paris too – well sit down with a cup of tea or a glass
of good wine and enjoy Ina Garten’s memoir. (You might have to take a break to make
Coq au Vin (I did!) as she shares a few of her favorite recipes between chapters.
Her life was not always easy, and it was not all luck that landed her where she is today;
she worked hard and asked the right questions along the way. From a difficult childhood
to meeting the love of her life at age 19, from a bureaucratic job in Washington DC to
buying a food store in the Hamptons, from becoming the Barefoot Contessa to writing
best-selling cookbooks and becoming a television host, Ina blazed her own trail and
figured out how to share her journey with millions. “Do what you love because if you
love it, you’ll be really good at it.”

Tina’s Picks

The Three Lives of Kate Cay by Kate Fagan

Three names, three lives. But Cate Kay is finally ready to tell you who she really is.
And when the truth is out, will everyone’s favourite novelist hold on to her place in our hearts or are some betrayals impossible to forgive? She has so much in her past built on so many lies that are not even her own but what she does have to own up to is an unintentional reaction when her best friend is injured. Her life continues on in ways she never expected. You’ll enjoy the ride with Cate Kay…..whoever she is.

Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty

The flight will be smooth, it will land safely. Everyone who gets on the plane will get off. But almost all of them will be forever changed. Because on this ordinary, short, domestic flight, something extraordinary happens. People learn how and when they are going to die. For some, their death is far in the future–age 103!–and they laugh. But for six passengers, their predicted deaths are not far away at all. … If you were told you only had a certain amount of time left to live, would you do things differently? Would you try to dodge your destiny? This book will prompt some deep and reflective questions about how we view our place in the world, and in the future.

Wendy’s Pick

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls, by Grady Hendrix

Ever wondered, “How to Become A Groove Witch?” A group of pregnant teens have been banished by their families to Wellwood House, a home for unwed mothers deep in southern FL. Here they will wait out the last months of their pregnancies under the punative and manipulative supervision of the owner and staff at Wellwood. The girls are depressed, traumatized, angry and scared. A chance meeting with the bookmobile librarian offers them a special book of spells that might provide hope…or maybe revenge? Magic, of course, always comes with a price. The author (middle aged man!) captures the personalities of the 1970’s era teens girls accurately and empathetically. A great read.

Pony Confidential by Christina Lynch

Penny, a middle-aged teacher and mother of a troubled young girl, has never forgotten her beloved childhood pony. Pony, however, has carried a life-long grudge against Penny! When Penny finds herself accused of murder and the outlook is hopeless, help comes from the unlikeliest of sources. This creative and quirky novel is a completely different spin on the mystery genre, and will have you thinking about how we treat animals – and the lengths we will go to for those we love.

More Bay Books

Featured New Arrival

Discover The Latest New Arrivals at Bay Books

May 7, 2025May 8, 2025

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May 5, 2025May 5, 2025

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Percival Everett makes it onto the TIMES List of 100 Most Influential People!

May 3, 2025May 3, 2025

Staff Picks

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April 16, 2025April 17, 2025

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April 16, 2025April 16, 2025

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March Staff Picks

March 7, 2025March 7, 2025

January 27, 2025 by B

January Staff Picks

Tina’s Staff Picks

The Seven Circles: Indigenous Teachings for Living Well by Chelsey Luger and Thosh Collins

The teachings in this book represent a diverse swatch of Indian Country which reflects the makeup of the authors’ families. Luger, a Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, and Collins, a Seneca-Cayuga and Osage, bring their wealth of indigenous insights into healthy behaviors and mindsets. They do this through focusing on seven circles, or interdependent topics, while including anecdotes and lessons from their own life journeys. Well worth the read and informed, accessible guidance for lifestyle changes are always helpful.

American Vikings by Martyn Whittock

Who isn’t fascinated by the Vikings? This vivid and illuminating new history separates fact from fiction and myth from legend and also explores the early Vikings settlements in North America. Loved it!

Winter Homes: Stylish Living for Cool Climates with introduction by Jeanette Walls

I loved looking through this book. It gave me all kinds of feels of warmth, security, refuge, and comfort and the illustrations are just beautiful. It’s no secret that I love winter and the snow, but even those who may not be as fond of it as I am will enjoy this. It will leave you with a Hallmark kinda feeling—so relaxing!

Skye’s Picks

Walk: For A Calmer You by Becky Dickinson

This is the perfect little book to help you get a little more motivated and start your journey in taking the next steps. Its small size really helps with getting the key information about the benefits and the facts to support how such a small day to day activity can really benefit your life. If you liked this book the author has also written other titles like “Tidy” and “Sleep” and their benefits and impacts on your life as well. If you want to start treating your mind and body better and don’t know where to start I definitely recommend these books!

The Half King by Melissa Landers

The young acolyte Cerise is living in a dangerous world. The high houses long ago betrayed and offended their goddess and she had seen fit to punish each noble firstborn with a curse whether it be madness, wynorrific beauty, or even vanishing into shadow when the sun sets. Since the King’s old emissary died it’s now fallen on Cerise who holds no power, but must help King Kian break his curse before he fades to complete shadow. So they set out on a quest to break the curse facing enemies of the land and within their own midst as well as having to pass tests the goddess has laid out to judge who is worthy. With curses, magic, a little romance, as well as blood that may not be what it seems, will they be able to break the curse before her new friends fall into the madness and darkness of their curses? Or will their enemies finally triumph? Great read for any fantasy-romance reader!

December 4, 2024 by B

December Staff Picks

Tina’s Picks

“We Are Starlings: Inside the Mesmerizing Magic of a Murmuration” by Robert Furrow and Donna Napoli, illustrated by Marc Martin

Not only is this a visually stunning book, but the explanation of murmurations plays out beautifully as each page is turned. When we see these huge flocks of starlings shape shifting in the sky, we are always amazed and awed. This book helps us all to understand and appreciate nature. (Childrens)

“We Live Here: Poems for an Ojibwe Calendar Year” by Lois Beardslee

Don’t we all feel the pull of Spring differently than we feel the pull of Autumn, Winter or Summer? Local Author Lois Bearslee writes beautifully of nature as the year passes with lovely poetical lyrics. This is a group of poems that will calm and give joy to anyone’s hearts throughout the year. (All)

“The Hotel Balzaar” by Kate DiCamillo

Love, patience and trust are underscored by the social mores of WWII as a young mother and her daughter wait for their father’s return. Through the storytelling of a mysterious Countess who is staying at the hotel where young Marta’s mother works, she learns to use her imagination but also learns to believe. Incredibly charming tale with mysteries and hope throughout. Did I mention the Countess has a parrot? (Juvenile Fiction)

“Spirit Crossing: A Novel” by William Kent Krueger

Lives are at stake to the path of truth in this novel based on true events. Missing indigenous women finally start getting attention from law enforcement when the body of a missing white girl is found. This is a social issue that is gaining ground in the public eye. Krueger hits the mark with this one—a must read!

Nathan’s Pick

“Forgotten Warriors” by Sarah Percy

Percy dives into the culture, accomplishments, and sacrifice of the millions of women who have served their countries across over the last hundred years. From the First World War to Iraq, female soldiers have been ignored by history, and denied the recognition they earned. The part that stood out to me most was the segment on the women that fought for the Red Army in the Second World War. Due to the gendered nature of the Russian language, many feminine versions of words had to be invented during the war. Overall, this book is an excellent introduction to an often misunderstood part of history and should be considered by anyone interested in the roles women play in society.

Wendy’s Picks

“The Mighty Red” by Louise Erdrich

Louise Erdrich is one of my favorite authors and “The Mighty Red” is an outstanding addition to her oeuvre. Set in rural North Dakota during the economic recession of 2008-2009, we meet a cast of interesting, complex and very quirky characters (one of Erdrich’s hallmarks) – high school football star, goth-girl, awkward and brilliant homeschooled guy, truck driving mom, itinerant actor dad, and more. We follow the characters as they each deal with the impact of their decisions, budding/fading romance, coping with tragedy, and what it means to carry deep secrets. The story pivots on the responsibility they have for their individual choices, for each other, their larger community and the environment. Heartbreaking, tender and funny – this is a big story that will sweep you along, just like the Red River itself.

“The Boyfriend” by Freida McFadden

Ohhh – settle in with a cup of tea or a glass or wine and immerse yourself in this page turning mystery/thriller that takes us into the complicated world of looking for “Mr. Right” in the age of dating apps. Main character, Sydney, has been on too many bad dates to count. At 34, she thinks she has finally landed “the one” – a gentlemanly, handsome and kind doctor. But at the same time, young women are being viciously murdered in NYC (including one of Syd’s best friends), and the clues connect the murders to a single serial killer. The “perfect boyfriend” starts to exhibit some concerning and suspicious actions…is Sydney in line to be the next victim?!

Skye’s Picks

“The Games Gods Play” by Abigail Owen

Lyra is born cursed, thanks to the high and mighty Zeus. Given up by her parents as a toddle,r she is handed over to the order of thieves. When a moment of weakness overcomes her, she comes face to face with Hades. Lucky to have walked away from the god of death, she just wants to go back to her life… until she’s unknowingly forced into “The Crucible” , a challenge amongst the gods to see who will be the next ruler among them. Each god and goddess has a champion and a labor they must overcome, well except Hades, he has Lyra as his champion but because of his last minute entry he doesn’t have a labor. So why did he enter now?

I liked “The Games God Play” because it takes a different perspective of the Greek gods. Anyone who likes mythology and fantasy should look into this one!

“The School for Good and Evil” by Soman Chainani

One small town, two best friends and a mysterious string of missing children. Agatha is the town’s young “witch” pale and withdrawn while Sophie Is the towns “princess” bubbly and bright and wants nothing more than to leave their dreary village behind her. Stories have warned them of a man who drags you away In the night but they never suspected them to be true! Now Agatha and Sophie are trapped in a new world attending a new school. One side of the school is for Good and has princesses, princes, puffy dresses and tea times. The other side is evil and has ugly creatures, spell classes, and other nefarious things. Sophie finally thought she’d get her happily ever after but she’s at the wrong school! Agatha just wants to save her friend and go home not play dress up! Both friends face life lessons and challenges that test the bounds of friendship and who they’ll become. It’s up to them whether they escape or step into their new roles. “The School of Good and Evil” is a great young adult book that has different twists and turns that you wouldn’t expect. If you’ve watched the movie I definitely recommend the book because the movie changed and left out a lotof what made the original story.

November 5, 2024 by B

November Staff Picks

Tina’s Picks

Billy Summers by Stephen King

While this Stephen King novel came out in 2021, I just now read it as I was not a fan of the cringe-worthy, nightmare inducing, horror writing of the kind that the talented Mr. King is known for these days. But in this one, he steps into the realm of the hard-boiled noir thriller. The main character, Billy, is an avid reader (Loved him immediately!), and also a talented hired assassin. While posing as a reclusive writer, and as he awaits the opportunity to complete his ‘job’, things get very complicated when he rescues a young woman (Alice) who has been roofied, raped and thrown into a gutter. With typical precision, Billy completes the job but then begins crisscrossing the country with Alice to carry out a final hit on a Very.Bad.Guy. Is Billy a good guy? Is Billy a bad guy? No one presses the emotional buttons like Stephen King. You won’t be disappointed in this novel!

Rogues: True Stories of Grifters, Killers, Rebels, and Crooks by Patrick Radden Keefe

I couldn’t help myself. This title has been sitting on our shelves, mocking me with its tales of thought-provoking examinations of human nature. It did not disappoint with its accounts of human motivations, choices, follies, and morality—or lack thereof. Who doesn’t love a good tale of counterfeit wine business or shifty Swiss banking? Very entertaining!

The Light Eaters by Zoë Schlanger

The Light Eater How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth by Zoe Schlanger Award-winning environment and science reporter Schlanger delivers a groundbreaking work of popular science that probes the hidden world of the Plant kingdom and reveals the astonishing capabilities of the green life all around. It takes tremendous biological creativity to be a plant. To survive and thrive while rooted in a single spot, plants have adapted ingenious methods of survival. In recent years, scientists have learned about their ability to communicate, recognize their kin and behave socially, hear sounds, morph their bodies to blend into their surroundings, store useful memories that inform their life cycle, and trick animals into behaving to their benefit, to name just a few remarkable talents. This book is massively interesting!

Skye’s Picks

The Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

In a world where being pretty is everything, Tally can’t wait to turn pretty herself. When one of her friends turns pretty three months before she does, Tally finds friendship with a girl named Shay who teaches her about the dead world and how being pretty might really be just skin deep. Shay and Tally might share a birthday but that doesn’t mean they share ideals… so between a new friend, a hidden place, and a boy who runs it all.. her entire perspective is put to the test and maybe being pretty isn’t what it’s cracked up to be. A great young reader series especially if they liked “The Giver”.

The Coven by Harper L. Woods

A tantalizing tale of witches, demons, sacrifices and power. Here’s a few basic rules:

1) Witches must give back to their power source so they may take, when there is only take their magic crumbles.

2) Vessels are demon inhabited molds, they appear human but the demon inside has no soul. They hate the witches for trapping them in these bodies but also rely on them for their blood which nourishes them and keeps them powerful.

3) A male witch may either keep his powers or be stripped of them if they want a family.

4) A century ago there was a massacre at the school that still has gone unanswered and the murderer never found. So when Hollows Grove finds Willow she must keep her secrets close and certain enemies closer. The Coven have never seen power like hers in centuries so they’ll stop at nothing for their plans to come into place, they didn’t count on her fiery attitude, the murders to start up again, nor for her to be under the protection of the aloof headmaster and Vessel Alaric Grayson Thorne. Will she survive this? Read and find out..

Nathan’s Pick

Mamushka by Olia Hercules

Mamushka by Olia Hercules is a fantastic cookbook that is full of recipes any enjoyer of Eastern-European and Caucasian cuisine will enjoy. Spending every summer of my childhood and teenage years in my Armenian grandparents house, many of these recipes are staples of any kind of celebration. Chickpea and mutton soup, Yogurt and sorrel, fruity lamb, and many more were served often. While there is no Paklava recipe, Ms. Hercules does have a companion book with Mediterranean cuisine. Both are highly recommended for both the diversity of recipes and the ease of instruction.

Wendy’s Pick

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

This mixed genre novel is equal parts romantic comedy and sci-fi/time travel, set in the near distant future. A government employee lands a promotion and healthy raise – only to find out after accepting the position that she will be working for a newly established, top secret department tasked with snagging citizens (“expats”) from across history in order to study the safety/feasibility of time travel. Her exact role is that of “bridge” – essentially a companion, who lives with and monitors the expat assigned to her. Enter Commander Graham Gore, from the year 1845, who is more than a little taken aback by his new circumstances – co-habitating with a single woman who shows her legs and uses all manner of electric contraptions and technology. As the project progresses, a romantic relationship develops and choices must be made. A creative and fun read!

October 3, 2024 by B

October Staff Picks

Tina’s Picks

Mushroom Gastronomy: The Art of Cooking with Mushrooms by Gibbs Smith
Living in Northern Michigan, it is hard to find someone who doesn’t love mushrooms, even those not called “morels”. I certainly do and in this book, I find the best of all worlds with delicious descriptions, recipes, and encyclopedic knowledge of this single protean ingredient. The photographs are stunning and you’ll find recipes for stroganoff, Chantilly potatoes, omelets, croque monsieur and more. Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller
“Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books” is a must read anytime. No can imagine Lula Dean even reading a book, much less banning one, but when you’re craving for attention that you feel you’ve always deserved, some crazy idea will stick. It’s how this banning comes about and the books that are included that makes this story so compelling. The power of a book, and the unintended consequences, speak volumes about our current environment.

The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookshop by Evan Friss
Where did the idea of a bookshop come from? Here is the incisive and thorough answer to that question, surrounded with historical and cultural references, as well as political machinations, that go along with how we came to have established bookshops. Friss also goes behind the scenes and describes the thoughts and impact that the progression of big box stores, and ultimately online shopping, came about. Incredibly interesting

Mrs. March by Virginia Feito
Hang on for a wild ride into one’s woman’s descent into madness. But why this descent when it appears that Mrs. March has everything one might wish? Living on the Upper East Side in splendor, Mrs. March’s husband is a successful author and her son attends the best school available. Was it because folks surmise her husband’s main character of his latest book was modeled after her? Or could it be the dysfunctional family she was raised in, or could it be latent desires that left her conflicted and confused? There’s much to ponder while reading this novel. Not for the faint hearted.

Nathan’s Pick

1491 by Charles Mann
“1491” by Charles Mann is the first text that anyone interested in the true history of the Western World needs to read. European history tells a story of brave adventurers coming to a strange and primitive land, where the natives were undeveloped and barbaric. Stories about how empty and wild landscapes were traversed by primitive nomads have been passed down for centuries. This image is not accurate. 1491 explains the complex and wide-reaching society of the Native American tribes, how their culture was steeped in tradition and community. Pre-Contact Americans had metropolitan cities, some larger than any European city at the time, and large-scale agriculture that was well understood. I personally enjoyed the segment about metal-working and how the Europeans and Natives had very different values in their approach to it. I learned more about Indigenous cultures in this book than I did throughout my entire k-12 school career. Overall, this book is vital for gaining a deeper understanding of how the past shapes our present.

Wendy’s Pick

The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
1950’s Washington D. C. – a women-only boarding house is the lively setting for this outstanding novel. We meet a diverse cast of characters whose lives become intertwined as they get to know one another via their weekly attic dinner parties. Each chapter focuses on a different boarder and her unique back-story. The author deftly weaves their stories together and brilliantly captures this evocative historical period, including the paranoia of McCarthy-ism and the evolving roles for women in America. A tale of friendships, secrets, loyalties, politicians, artists, gangsters – even murder!

August 30, 2024 by B

September Staff Picks

New Staff Picks

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!

Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions by Temple Grandin

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

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

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!

August 7, 2024 by B

August Staff Picks

Nathan’s Pick

The Great Wall: China Against the World 1000 BC-AD 2000 by Julia Lovell

This intriguing non-fiction gives a meticulously researched exploration of China’s iconic stone wall. Lovell delves beyond the mere architectural marvel of the Great Wall, discussing its complex historical, cultural, and political presence through the ages. My favorite part is right in the beginning when Lovell discusses the etymological presence of the “Wall” concept in Chinese society. The writing is complex and deep, but never to the point of feeling pretentious, as some history books are. This makes it an engaging read for both history enthusiasts and casual readers. Lovell’s analysis sheds light on how the Wall has come to symbolize China’s enduring quest for security and identity in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape.

Skye’s Picks

Happy Place By Emily Henry

Imagine your happy place, what does it look like? A calm beach with a summer breeze? A winter night with a good book and some cocoa? Well I can take a guess and say it’s probably not trapped in a cabin with your ex fiance while your entire friend group still thinks you’re together. If that’s not bad enough you have to share a room and pretend everything’s fine. As the days go by it takes less effort to fake your affections towards one another and harder to figure out what’s real and what’s pretend. As time passes the more this friend group realizes everyone has their own hidden problems, and it just gets worse as everyone keeps a tight hold on their secrets. Sometimes doing things on your own seems easier but always remember that good friends are always there when you need them.

The Wren In The Holly Library By K.A.Linde

When stealing a little old ring doesn’t go quite as planned, Keirse is face to face with an unknown monster. Instead of taking her life as payment for breaking the monster treaty he offers a deal. She helps him steal something he wants and he pays, protects, and teaches her new skills. What Keirse doesn’t understand is that she’s not all as human as she thinks. Will trusting this monster help or hurt her? If you enjoyed “A Court of Wings and Ruin” and loved Bryaxis you’ll probably like Graves, the monster who lurks in his own Holly Library.

Wendy’s Picks

God of the Woods by Liz Moore

One of the “hot books” of the summer, this novel was a five star read for me. Set in the Adirondacks (NY),you’ll immediately be pulled into the story of two siblings who inexplicably vanish from a summer camp, many years apart. The two missing young people are part of an ultra-wealthy if dysfunctional, patriarchal family who built a lavish mansion in the wilderness along with an adjoining summer camp. The novel is a two-part mystery bouncing between past and present, with themes of complicated family and romantic relationships, and socioeconomic class comparisons/contrasts. Also woven in is the story of a serial killer who roamed the Adirondack woods – inspired by historical events that took place in the 1970’s. Post up with a cool beverage and dive into this one this August.

Tina’s Picks

Queer Ducks (and Other Animals): The Natural World of Animal Sexuality by Eliot Schrefer

Using conversational humor and personal anecdotes, as well as interviews with a variety of scientists, National Book Award winner author Schrefer breaks down commonly held beliefs to reveal this element of animal behavior. It’s full of little known facts about animal sexuality and asexuality that support the argument that science shows us that none of that is “unnatural”. Truly an interesting read. I’ve begun watching my birds more closely now!

Northwind by Gary Paulsen

We love the Hatchet series by Paulsen and now he gives us a captivating saga of survival and self-discovery of a levelheaded child in a Nordic archipelago landscape. The main character, Leif, is instructed to head north to safety after the camp he lives in becomes infected with cholera. Taking a canoe and finding himself alone, he must survive along the shorelines which teem with bears and whales. All of this is described with Paulsen’s characteristic attention to detail and survivalistic prose. A great adventure novel.

Young Adult (Ages 8 – 12)

Cress Watercress by Gregory Macquire

The author of Wicked brings his skill to this lovely, descriptive animal story, weaving familiar elements of a cozy family, a treacherous woodland, mourning and growing pains in the style of Beatrix Potter and Kenneth Grahame. Beautifully illustrated, this novel is full of scene stealing nimal folk who will hold your attention from beginning to end. A real joy!

Finding Fire by Logan S. Kline

Wordless save for the five-line introduction, this picture book begins with a prehistoric child who sets out to find a new source of fire after a torrential rain douses a local cave hearth. Perfect for story telling, story starting, and engaging all reading levels. Teachers will love this and they will also love its cozy, brightly lit end. The illustrations truly tell a story with their beautiful design.

China by Edward Rutherfurd

I truly adore this author and how he weaves so artistically history and culture through the stories of everyday people who represent all walks of life. My only misgivings is in regards to the ending. While this is a long book, it seemed he tried to bring the ending on too quickly by using conversation to bring out details that might have made the story and ending more fitting had it been done through advancing the plot line and existing characters.
Still—-his books are fantastic reads and great learning experiences. I highly recommend all of them. The first one I read was Sarum then Russka—I was hooked!

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