Year: 2015

November 2015 Library Reads

November 27, 2015

The Japanese Lover: A Novel
by Isabel Allende

“Irina is a young Moldavian immigrant with a troubled past. She works at an assisted living home where she meets Alma, a Holocaust survivor. Alma falls in love with Ichi, a young Japanese gardener, who survived Topaz, the Japanese internment camp. Despite man’s inhumanity to man, love, art and beauty can exist, as evidenced in their beautiful love story.”

- Ellen Firer, Merrick Library, Merrick, NY

The Improbability of Love: A Novel
by Hannah Rothschild

“The engaging, totally unexpected story of Annie, a lonely young woman who wanders into a junk shop and buys a painting. The painting turns out to have a long and storied past, with powerful people searching high and low for it. Unpredictable and fascinating; I loved the peek into the cutthroat art world and watching Annie blossom as she discovers her true calling.”

- Heather Bistyga, Anderson County Library, Anderson, SC

Little Victories: Perfect Rules for Imperfect Living
by Jason Gay

“This was a quick, enjoyable read that offers a refreshing perspective on some of the trivialities we all find ourselves caught up in. I enjoyed the tone and humor throughout. A standout for me was Gay’s list of recommendations for his child’s future baseball team. His open letter to this imagined future team envisions a team that can just let kids be kids. My only disappointment with this book was that there wasn’t more of it–it seemed to end all too soon.”

- Lindley Homol, Chesterfield County Public Library, Chesterfield, VA

 

Crimson Shore: A Novel
by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

In the latest installment in the Special Agent Pendergast series, Pendergast and Constance Greene investigate a theft of a wine cellar in an ancient village on the coast north of Salem, only to discover during their investigation the entombed remains of a tortured man. “I always thoroughly enjoy the Pendergast novels, and the interaction between Pendergast and Constance in this book was very intriguing.”

- Shari Brophy, Timberland Regional Library, Tumwater, WA

The Muralist: A Novel
by B.A. Shapiro

“This art-filled story following the young life and disappearance of Alizee Benoit is heartbreaking and thoughtful. Not only does the novel give an entertaining education on the WPA and abstract artists, but it also gives eerily relevant commentary on refugees and the cold-heartedness of government. Alizee’s story will pull you along as you try to grasp how this bright light of the art community vanished.”

- Amanda Monson, Bartow County Library System, Cartersville, GA

The Girl With Ghost Eyes
by M.H. Boroson

“In San Francisco during the late 1800s, a young Chinese widow tries to keep her father alive, and win a place in his heart she doesn’t realize she already owns. This story is filled with wonderful detail from Chinese folklore and mythology, and plenty of action as two tongs battle to control Chinatown. The very best fantasy employs strong characters who are real people with real problems. I enjoyed every page.”

- Janet Martin, Southern Pines Public Library, Southern Pines, NC

Along the Infinite Sea: A Novel
by Beatriz Williams

“When Pepper Schuyler–on the run from a powerful politician and desperate to protect her unborn child–sells her newly restored classic car to an enigmatic and very wealthy woman, she not only finds unexpected refuge but also tantalizing hints of a mystery. With vivid European settings, colorful characters and intricate plotting that skillfully weaves past and present together, Along The Infinite Sea is a treat for fans of Beatriz Williams.”

- Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY

A Likely Story: A Library Lover’s Mystery
by Jenn McKinlay

“A Likely Story is just as addictive as the rest of the Library Lover’s mysteries! McKinlay has written some of the most authentic library characters that I’ve come across in the cozy mystery genre. I can’t wait to find out what the employees and patrons of Briar Creek Public Library (especially Sully) are up to next!”

- Michelle Ross, Kanawha County Public Library, Charleston, WV

Dear Mr. You
by Mary-Louise Parker

“Parker has created a unique and poetic memoir through a series of letters–some of appreciation, some of apology, some simply of acknowledgement–to the men in her life. Ranging from a taxi driver to a grandfather she never knew, each man has left an imprint and shaped her into the person she has become. Full of feeling, growth, and self-discovery, Parker’s book has left me longing to write my own letters.”

- PJ Gardiner, Wake County Public Libraries, Raleigh, NC

A Wild Swan: And Other Tales
by Michael Cunningham and Yuko Shimizu (Illustrator)

“These are fairy tales that have slightly more insight, for the discerning adult. “The Wild Swans” was actually my favorite when I was young, next to “The Little Mermaid.” These are a continuation of what happens after those stories end and are set, in some instances, in the modern world. Packed with humor, this is an easy gift for those who like to be read to at night or feel too old for idealistic fairy tales.”

- Andrienne Cruz, Azusa City Library, Azusa, CA

October 2015 Library Reads List

September 29, 2015

City on Fire: A Novel
by Garth Risk Hallberg

“WOW! An excellently executed work with intricate plot lines and fascinating characters. It’s a story of how the stories of many different people of New York City in the late seventies crash into each other like waves on rocks. This work may encapsulate the whole of New York City, as it has wealth, love, filth, passion, aimless angst, and the myriad of other aspects of humanity swirling in that amazing city.”

- Racine Zackula, Wichita Public Library, Wichita, KS

After You: A Novel
by Jojo Moyes

“I loved Me Before You and thought it ended in the perfect place, but any doubts I had about continuing the story were quickly erased when I started this sequel. Jojo Moyes is a master at tugging on your heartstrings. I laughed, I cried, and I nearly threw my Kindle against the wall at one point. Give this to anyone in your life who has experienced a tragic loss. With a box of tissues.”

- Joseph Jones, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Cleveland, OH

A Banquet of Consequences: A Lynley Novel
by Elizabeth George

“Still reeling from a previous fall from grace, police detective Barbara Havers has a chance to redeem her standing–if she can unravel the very twisted threads that led to the murder of a prominent English feminist. Meanwhile, her superior officer Thomas Lynley pursues a love interest even as he keeps a sharp lookout for any slip-ups by Havers. This is the strongest addition to the series in years.”

- Starr Smith, Fairfax County Public Library, Falls Church, VA

Slade House: A Novel
by David Mitchell

“Every nine years, Slade House appears in a little alley in London, and every nine years, someone disappears into it, never to be seen again. Fans of The Bone Clocks will inhale this compact, six-part work that draws on Mitchell’s established mythology and reintroduces a familiar character or two. New readers, however, won’t be lost. Literary fiction, fantasy, and a dose of horror combine here to make a deeply satisfying book.”

- Jenny Arch, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA

The Heart Goes Last: A Novel
by Margaret Atwood

“The premise of Atwood’s latest is interesting, grounded strongly in current social and economic issues. The writing is as elegant and beautiful, as always with Atwood. I recommend this book because it is a wonderful and thought-provoking novel. People who have enjoyed other Atwood works should definitely take a look at this one.”

- Lauren Mitchell, Pima County Public Library, Tucson, AZ

The Secret Chord: A Novel
by Geraldine Brooks

“Brooks does it again, in this fascinating and richly detailed fictionalized account of the life and times of King David. We see David as he might actually have been: a charismatic leader of men, both brutal and conflicted. This is perfect for historical fiction readers who enjoy lots of detail and believable characters. It transports you to the times and places inhabited by David.”

- Marilee Cogswell, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Welcome to Night Vale: A Novel
by Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor

From the creators of the popular podcast about a nameless town where the supernatural and strange are commonplace comes a new mystery novel. “This is classic Night Vale in written form. It’s an absolute must for Night Vale fans, and will possibly provide an introduction for those who haven’t found this snarky little podcast yet.”

- Debra Franklin, York County Public Library, Rock Hill, SC

In Bitter Chill
by Sarah Ward

“Great new mystery set in the atmospheric Peak District of England. When a woman’s suicide is found to be related to an unsolved case of a missing girl, the police must reinvestigate a long cold case. I hope this book will be the first in a new series!”

- Pamela Wiggins, Wake County Public Libraries, Cary, NC

Then Comes Marriage: United States v. Windsor and the Defeat of DOMA
by Roberta Kaplan, Edie Windsor and Lisa Dickey

“The attorney who argued before the Supreme Court for the plaintiff in this landmark case gives the story behind the headlines. Kaplan integrates personal narrative with legal strategy throughout, combining her own struggles with a fascinating look at the brave and unconventional life led by her client. This is a heartwarming and inspiring account of one widow’s pursuit of justice and dignity.”

- Darren Nelson, Sno-Isle Libraries, Marysville, WA

We Were Brothers: A Memoir
by Barry Moser

“Moser’s deeply personal memoir of his volatile relationship with his brother in the segregated south is thoughtful and beautifully written. Strong differences of opinions divided the brothers. Late in life, reconciliation came, but only after years of heartache. There is much to ponder from this work, which is timely given current racial tensions.”

- PJ Gardiner, Wake County Public Libraries, Raleigh, NC

2015 National Book Awards Longlist for Fiction

September 18, 2015

The National Book Foundation has announced their Longlist for the National Book Award for Fiction.  Finalists will be revealed October 14th.   For more information about the authors and to see which books were nominated in other categories including poetry, nonfiction, and young people's literature, visit their web site.  How many of these titles have you read?   Click on the covers to check availability at the library.

 

 

September 2015 Library Reads Picks

September 8, 2015

The Art of Crash Landing: A Novel
by Melissa DeCarlo

“At once tragic and hilarious, this book is a roller coaster of a read. You’ll find yourself rooting for the snarky and impulsive but ultimately lovable Mattie. At the heart of this tale is a beautifully unraveled mystery that has led Mattie to her current circumstances, ultimately bringing her to her first real home.”

- Patricia Kline-Millard, Bedford Public Library, Bedford, NH

Make Me: A Jack Reacher Novel
by Lee Child

“Jack Reacher is back. Jack gets off a train at an isolated town. Soon, he is learning much more about the town, and its residents are learning not to mess around with Jack Reacher. Readers new to this series will find this book a good starting point, and fans will be pleased to see Jack again.”

- Jenna Persick, Chester County Library, Exton, PA

House of Thieves: A Novel
by Charles Belfoure

“Belfoure’s intriguing novel is set in Gilded Age New York City. John Cross, head of the family, finds an unexpected talent for planning robberies, while his wife and children also discover their inner criminals. The historical details and setting evoke old New York. I enjoyed every minute of their escapades.”

- Barbara Clark-Greene, Groton Public Library, Groton, CT

Fates and Furies: A Novel
by Lauren Groff

“Fates and Furies is a modern portrait of marriage. Lotto Satterwhite is the center, the hub around which all the characters revolve in the first half of the book. In the second half of the book, the lens turns to Lotto’s wife Mathilde, and her side of the lopsided partnership gives us a totally different view. Groff is a master of language. It’s not a gentle read. But it’s magnificent.”

- Kelly Currie, Delphi Public Library, Delphi, IN

Did You Ever Have A Family
by Bill Clegg

“Clegg’s devastatingly beautiful fiction debut is the portrait of a community in the aftermath of a tragedy. June Reid, the broken woman at the epicenter of the novel, is struggling with a loss so profound that she is unable to see beyond her grief, unaware that it has touched many people. Clegg tells their stories with heartbreaking sensitivity and insight.”

- Mary Coe, Fairfield Woods Branch Library, Fairfield, CT

The Gates of Evangeline
by Hester Young

“Journalist Charlie Cates goes to gloomy, swampy Louisiana to write a book about the disappearance of a young child. Her research uncovers family secrets, lies, and clandestine affairs. This first book in a new series is incredibly suspenseful, with a vivid setting, a supernatural tinge, and an intricate plot that keeps you guessing until the end.”

- Anbolyn Potter, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ

Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things
by Jenny Lawson

“Lawson’s hilarious memoir is a romp between absurdity and despondency. Passages alternate from ridiculously funny stories of her life to episodes of her sometimes debilitating depression. Lawson embraces living life, rather than merely surviving it. Why be just happy when you can be furiously so? Recommended to fans of David Sedaris and Sloane Crosley.”

- PJ Gardiner, Wake County Public Libraries, Raleigh, NC

This Is Your Life, Harriet Chance!
by Jonathan Evison

“Harriet Chance receives word that her recently deceased husband, Bernard, has won an Alaskan cruise. Deciding to go on the trip, she is given a letter from her close friend Mildred, with instructions not to open it until she is on the cruise. The contents of this letter shatter Harriet and she begins to reevaluate her life and her relationships.”

- Arleen Talley, Anne Arundel County Public Library Foundation, Annapolis, MD

Girl Waits With Gun
by Amy Stewart

“When the Kopp sisters and their buggy are injured by Henry Kaufman’s car, Constance Kopp at first just wants him to pay the damages. As she pursues justice, she meets another of Kaufman’s victims, the young woman Lucy. Stewart creates fully developed characters, including the heroine, Constance, who is fiercely independent as she faces down her fears. The time period and setting are important parts of the story as well, providing a glimpse of 1914 New Jersey.”

- Maggie Holmes, Richards Memorial Library, North Attleboro, MA

The Scribe: A Novel
by Matthew Guinn

“A shunned detective is pulled back to Atlanta to solve some brutal murders that seem to be the work of a serial killer. Political intrigue, a fascinating time in this country’s history, and a good old-fashioned murder mystery make this one fascinating read. This book asks the question: when a man has had everything taken away, will he still fight for what is right?”

- Kimberly McGee, Lake Travis Community Library, Austin, TX

August 2015 Library Reads List

August 8, 2015

 

Best Boy: A Novel
by Eli Gottlieb

“What happens when someone on the autism spectrum grows up, and they aren’t a cute little boy anymore? Gottlieb’s novel follows the story of Todd Aaron, a man in his fifties who has spent most of his life a resident of the Payton Living Center. Todd begins to wonder what lies beyond the gates of his institution. A funny and deeply affecting work.”

- Elizabeth Olesh, Baldwin Public Library, Baldwin, NY

The Nature of the Beast: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel
by Louise Penny

“Louise Penny set the bar high with her last two books, but she had no trouble clearing it with this one. All our old friends are back in Three Pines where a young boy with a compulsion to tell tall tales tells one true story with disastrous results. But which story is the truth and why is it so threatening? Exquisitely suspenseful, emotionally wrenching and thoroughly satisfying.”

- Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY

A Window Opens: A Novel
by Elisabeth Egan

“Alice Pearce has a pretty great life. She has a loving family and works part-time as an editor for a magazine. When her family’s financial situation takes a drastic turn, Alice finds that she needs to step up to the plate and contribute more, and she finds this comes at a cost. I think many women will see themselves in Alice’s character. I recommend this book to moms who need a little time to themselves; they might realize that maybe things aren’t so bad for them after all.”

- Rosanna Johnson, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ

The Marriage of Opposites: A Novel
by Alice Hoffman

“Exquisite…Alice Hoffman’s finest work to date. The Marriage of Opposites is a beautiful love story of a man and woman and a mother and child intricately woven together to capture the author’s true message: Love more, not less.”

- Marianne Colton, Lockport Public Library, Lockport, NY

Everybody Rise: A Novel
by Stephanie Clifford

“Stephanie Clifford’s debut novel takes us into the world of NYC high society in 2006. Evelyn Beegan, who’s always been on the fringes of the smart set, meets It girl Camilla Rutherford, and her ambition and desire to belong get the best of her. Evelyn’s deceptive effort to keep pace with Camilla wreaks all kinds of havoc with her finances, her family, and her sense of self. With a sympathetic main character and a fascinating look into how the other half lives, this astute tale is irresistible.”

- Anbolyn Potter, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ

The Fall of Princes: A Novel
by Robert Goolrick

“I loved this novel about the rise and fall of a man in NYC during the 80s, when money was easy to make and easy to spend. What happens when you can get anything you want, and what does it really end up costing you? The story of the people working in the financial industry during that time is interwoven with the reality of AIDS, cocaine and the changes going on in society. So many sentences were so well-written that I found myself stopping to take them in and relish them.”

Jennifer Cook, Cheshire Public Library, Cheshire, CT

In a Dark, Dark Wood: A Novel
by Ruth Ware

“Leonora Shaw is a crime writer who lives a solitary life in London until she receives an invitation to a hen party for a friend she hasn’t seen in nearly ten years. The party takes place in a remote location with spotty phone service. Are you nervous yet? We know from the opening pages that something horrible happens, but just what, and to whom, how, and why will keep readers guessing — and flipping the pages. Recommended for fans of The Girl on the Train.”

Vicki Nesting, St. Charles Parish Library, Destrehan, LA

Black Eyed Susans: A Novel
by Julia Heaberlin

“In 1995, Tessie went out for a run, and she went missing. She was found eventually, a surviving victim of the Black-Eyed Susan serial killer. The supposed killer is in prison, yet Tessie is still being plagued by mysterious Black Eyed Susan flowers blooming where they shouldn’t. The viewpoint shifts between Tessie in the present day and teenage Tessie in 1995, and was quite clever. I think this novel will appeal to fans of Gone Girl.”

- Shannon Fukumoto, Kapolei Public Library Kapolei, HI

Lord of the Wings:
A Meg Langslow Mystery
by Donna Andrews

“It’s Halloween in Caerphilly and the town has come up with another festival to bring in the tourists. Meg Langslow is heading up the “Goblin Patrol”, there’s trouble at the Haunted House, and body parts are being found at the zoo. Meg is once again called in to save the day and solve the crime. If you enjoy your mysteries packed with humor and fun, don’t miss this return to Caerphilly with Meg and her zany family and friends.”

- Karen Emery, Johnson County Public Library, Franklin, IN

Browsings: A Year of Reading, Collecting, and Living with Books
by Michael Dirda

“This collection of Dirda’s musings on writers, book collecting and the literary landscape is a must read for all bibliophiles. Michael Dirda won a Pulitzer for his work at the Washington Post and has been called “the best-read person in America”. I always learn something new when I read his work and this book is no exception. Great fun for all book nerds!”

- Robin Nesbitt, Columbus Metropolitan Library, Hilliard, OH

July 2015 Library Reads Picks

July 10, 2015

\"\"

Kitchens of the Great Midwest: A Novel
by J. Ryan Stradal

“This novel is quirky and colorful. The story revolves around chef Eva Thorvald and the people who influence her life and her cooking. With well-drawn characters and mouthwatering descriptions of meals, Kitchens of the Great Midwest will appeal to readers who like vivid storytelling. Foodies will also enjoy this delicious tale.”

- Anbolyn Potter, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ

Circling the Sun: A Novel
by Paula McLain

“I couldn’t stop reading this fascinating portrayal of Beryl Markham, a complex and strong-willed woman who fought to make her way in the world on her terms. McLain paints a captivating portrait of Africa in the 1920s and the life of expats making their home there. Highly, highly recommended.”

- Halle Eisenman, Beaufort County Library, Hilton Head, SC

Kiss Me: A Novel
by Susan Mallery

“As always, Ms. Mallery has given us a fantastic read. As soon as I pick up her titles, I can’t put them down until I have finished them. They are feel-good, heartwarming —
I need more synonyms. I love seeing all the previous characters, the friendships and families that have formed since Chasing Perfect came out five years ago. Thanks, Ms. Mallery, for another amazing read.”

- Jenelle Klavenga, Marshalltown Public Library, Marshalltown, IA

Second Chance Summer: A Novel
by Jill Shalvis

“I loved this book, a perfect start to the newest series by Jill Shalvis. It contains the same humor, heart and heat that we’ve come to expect from this author. It should be on every romance reader’s summer reading list.”

- Carole Tossman, Howard County Library System, Columbia, MD

Speaking in Bones: A Novel

by Kathy Reichs

“This book lives up to the expectations we have for Kathy Reichs. A compelling and dangerous mystery, lots of medical details, and good characterization make this a title that will be easy to recommend!”

- Leslie Johnson, Jefferson County Public Library, Lakewood, CO

Those Girls: A Novel
by Chevy Stevens

“Those Girls follows the lives of the Campbell sisters. After running away from their alcoholic father, they find themselves caught in a worse situation when they are kidnapped. As events spiral out of control, they manage to escape and create new lives. This is a tale that will captivate readers and show just how strong the bond between family members can be.”

- Annice Sevett, Willmar Public Library, Willmar, Minnesota

Maybe in Another Life: A Novel
by Taylor Jenkins Reid

“Hannah Martin has just moved back to LA after ending a relationship. Her best friend, Gabby, takes her out to a bar on her first night home. Enter Ethan, the One Who Got Away, and suddenly, Hannah has to decide if she’ll leave with Ethan or Gabby. We follow Hannah after choosing both options, alternating chapters to explore the consequences of each. A must for anyone who loves a hankie with their books!”

- Tracy Babiasz, Chapel Hill Public Library, Chapel Hill, NC

Crooked Heart: A Novel
by Lissa Evans

“Crooked Heart is a rewarding, addictive read. Orphaned ten-year-old bookworm Noel, sent away to rural St. Albans, finds himself under the reluctant guardianship of Vee, aka Mrs. Vera Sledge. Amidst a chaotic background of bombings and uncertain futures, Vee and Noel gradually form a powerful bond. I recommend this darkly humorous, honest, and complex story. It is book club heaven.”

- Janet Schneider, Oceanside Library, Oceanside, NY

Love Lies Beneath: A Novel
by Ellen Hopkins

“An intriguing tale of sex, romance and deception. Tara is a brilliant, sexy forty-something. She’s enjoying being single until Cavin, a handsome doctor, enters her exam room. They have a hot and steamy romance but there is much, much more to this story. Ellen Hopkins commands each word on the page from her prose to verse.”

- Laura Hartwig, Meriden Public Library, Meriden, CT

\"\"Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day
by Leanne Brown

“Wow! This is a great looking book. Great for beginners with its details about ingredients and kitchen tools. Best of all, each recipe is made from ingredients that most everyone has; there were only two ingredients in the whole book that I don’t own. This book is just what my doctor ordered, literally. I am a basic cook and like simple and tasty. This book is OUTSTANDING!”

  • Nancy Chalk, Charlton Public Library, Charlton, MA

July 2015 Book Discussions

June 30, 2015

All are welcome to attend our book discussions.  Stop by the Adult Services Desk at the Main Library (Harnish) to pick up your copies today!

 

BOOK CLUBBERS


Date:Thursday, July 02, 2015 @ Harnish
Time: 7:00 PM
The Light in the Ruins
by Chris Bohjalian

Hoping to safeguard themselves from the ravages of World War II within the walls of their ancient villa in Florence, the noble Rosati family become prisoners in their home when eighteen-year-old Cristina's courtship by a German lieutenant prompts the Nazis to take over the estate, a situation that leads to a serial murder investigation years later.

BOOKALICIOUS

Date: Monday, July 13, 2015 @ Village Vintner Winery
Time: 7:00 PM
The Running Dream
by Wendelin Van Draanen

When a school bus accident leaves sixteen-year-old Jessica an amputee, she returns to school with a prosthetic limb and her track team finds a wonderful way to help rekindle her dream of running again.

CLASSICS BOOK CLUB

Date:Wednesday, July 15, 2015 @ Harnish
Time:7:00 PM
Lonesome Dove
by Larry McMurtry

This Pulitzer Prize winning novel focuses on the relationship of several retired Texas Rangers and their adventures driving cattle herd from Texas to Montana.

NITE READERS BOOK CLUB


Date:Thursday, July 16, 2015
Time: 7:00 PM
Treasure Island
by Robert Louis Stevenson

While going through the possessions of a deceased guest who owed them money, the mistress of an inn and her son find a treasure map that leads them to a pirate's fortune.

June Book Club Selections

June 16, 2015

Looking for a little reading inspiration?  Here’s what our book clubs have been reading this month.

BOOK CLUBBERS
(Meets the first Thursday evening of each month)

The expats : a novel
by Chris Pavone.

An international spy thriller about a former CIA agent who moves with her family to Luxembourg where everything is suspicious and nothing is as it seems.

 

 

SPINECRACKERS
(Meets the first Friday morning of each month)

Marrying Mozart
by Stephanie Cowell

Eighteenth-century Europe comes alive with unforgiving winters and yawning princes; scheming parents and the enduring passions of young talent. Set in Mannheim, Munich, Salzburg and Vienna, Marrying Mozartis the richly textured love story of a remarkable historical figure-and four young women who engaged his passion, his music, and his heart.

 

CLASSICS
(Meets the third Wednesday evening of each month)

The Pioneers
by James Fenimore Cooper

Natty Bumppo, now on the threshold of old age, finds his way of life challenged as the land he has roamed becomes private property and the laws of man supplant the laws of nature.

 

 

BOOKALICIOUS
(Meets the second Monday evening of each month at Village Vintner)


Fake ID
L. R. Giles

“An African-American teen in the Witness Protection Program moves to a new town and finds himself trying to solve a murder mystery when his first friend is found dead”

 

 

NITE READERS
(Meets the third Thursday evening of each month)

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
by Gabrielle Zevin

The irascible A.J. Fikry, owner of Island Books, has already lost his wife. Now his most prized possession, a rare book, has been stolen from right under his nose. One night upon closing, he discovers a toddler in his children’s section with a note from her mother saying she can no longer raise her. It doesn’t take long for the locals to notice the transformation of both bookstore and owner, especially to a lovely yet eccentric sales rep.

Want to join us next month?  Stop by the Adult Services desk to pick up the reading selections for NEXT month!

June 2015 Library Reads Picks

June 16, 2015

Eight Hundred Grapes: A Novel by Laura Dave

\"\"

Visit LibraryReads for more information about how this list was created, and to view favorites from previous months!

Eight Hundred Grapes: A Novel                                                                                                                       

by Laura Dave

“Take your time and savor the family dynamics. Enjoy the romantic twists in this tale of a career-minded young woman circling back to her roots at a California winery. The appeal is broader than that of a romance since it delves into the complexities of various relationships — parent to parent, parents and children, even winery and owner. This is an excellent summer read!”

- Joan Hipp, Florham Park Public Library, Florham Park, NJ

The Truth According to Us: A Novel
by Annie Barrows

“It is 1938 in a rural West Virginia town and a young woman arrives to write the town’s history. Layla doesn’t really know what to expect from the town, and the town doesn’t know what to make of her. This is the heart of the South, the soul of small towns, where everyone looks out for you and knows your history. Sweet story tailor-made for fans of Billie Letts, Fannie Flagg, Pat Conroy and Harper Lee.”

- Kimberly McGee, Lake Travis Community Library, Austin, TX

 

The Book of Speculation: A Novel
by Erica Swyler
Published: 6/23/2015/2015 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250054807

“A roller coaster of a read! This is the story of a librarian from a splintered family with a tragic past who is gifted a mysterious book that leads him to dive deep into his family’s history, all while his present life seems to be falling to pieces around him. If you loved Morgenstern’s The Night Circus or Kostova’s The Historian, this is a book for you.”

- Amanda Monson, Bartow County Library System, Cartersville, GA

The Little Paris Bookshop: A Novel
by Nina George

“Quirky and delightful, Nina George’s book focuses on Jean Perdu, owner of the Literary Apothecary, a floating bookshop. When a new tenant in his apartment building sets in motion events that force Jean to re-evaluate his past, he finds himself floating off down the rivers of France in search of lost love, new love, and friends he didn’t know he needed.”

- Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY

The Invasion of the Tearling: A Novel
by Erika Johansen

“The Mort are coming! Johansen introduces new characters and enticing bits of history, with the second volume of her intriguing tale of fantasy, mystery and royal politics. Kelsea, the new Tearling Queen, has broken the Red Queen’s treaty and prepares to suffer the consequences as her nation is about to be invaded. Readers will be eager for the final volume in the Tearling saga.”

- Lucy Lockley, St. Charles City-County Library, St. Peters, MO

 

In the Unlikely Event: A Novel
by Judy Blume

“The obvious ‘unlikely events’ of Judy Blume’s latest — the three plane crashes afflicting Elizabeth, NJ in one horrifying winter — set the framework for everyday unlikely events around love, family, friendship, relating all that can go so wrong, and so right, with all three. Readers will enjoy the period detail and relatable characters that feature in this hybrid domestic/disaster tale.”

- Becky Bowen, Kenton County Public Library, Independence, KY

 

The Rumor: A Novel
by Elin Hilderbrand
Published: 6/16/2015 by Little, Brown and Company
ISBN: 9780316334525

“Elin Hilderbrand has done it again! Grace is married to Fast Eddie, a successful real estate broker on the island. They live with their twin teenage daughters in a beautiful house with three manicured acres overlooking the harbor. Financial troubles, affairs or supposed affairs, teenage angst and shady deals kick the rumor mill on the island in high gear. The Rumor is the ideal beach book for this summer!”

- Claudia Silk, Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield, CT

 

The Precipice: A Novel
by Paul Doiron

“When two women go missing while hiking a difficult part of the Appalachian Trail, Maine game warden Mike Bowditch helps in trying to determine where the women were last seen. Mike then discovers there is no shortage of people whose behaviors make them suspicious. With a puzzle that keeps the reader guessing, and a main character that you can’t help but empathize with, The Precipice is another home run for Doiron.”

- Lora Bruggeman, Indian Prairie Public Library, Darien, IL

My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She’s Sorry: A Novel
by Fredrik Backman
Published: 6/16/2015 by Atria Books
ISBN: 9781501115066

“From the author of one my favorite books of last year, A Man Called Ove, this book packs a similar emotional punch at the end, but has some significant differences. It is told from the point of view of Elsa, a seven-year-old child who loves Harry Potter, fairy tales, and her grandmother. Once I stopped trying to make the story fit my adult view of the world and entered into Elsa’s world, I had a whale of a time.”

- Janet Lockhart, Wake County Public Libraries, Cary, NC

 

Pirate Hunters: Treasure, Obsession, and the Search for a Legendary Pirate Ship
by Robert Kurson

“This is the journey of Tracy Bowden, John Chatterton, and John Mattera as they follow a quest to find the sunken pirate ship named the Golden Fleece. I think anyone would be interested in the treasure of a famous buccaneer, Joseph Bannister. Many people, including me, have dreamed of digging up a treasure chest of gold. What could be more fun than traveling along with treasure hunters to find a lost pirate ship?”

- Linda Payne, Lake Placid Memorial Library, Lake Placid, FL

 

May Library Reads Picks

June 16, 2015

Visit LibraryReads for more information about how this list was created, and to view favorites from previous months!

Uprooted
by Naomi Novik

“A young girl is unexpectedly uprooted from her family and becomes involved in a centuries-old battle with The Wood, a malevolent entity which destroys anyone it touches. Fast-paced, with magic, mystery and romance, Novik’s stand-alone novel is a fairy tale for adults.”

- Lucy Lockley, St. Charles City-County Library, St. Peters, MO

A Court of Thorns and Roses
by Sarah J. Maas

“The human world is in peril. Feyre, a semi-literate girl, hunts for her family’s survival. After she kills an enormous wolf, a fierce fey shows up at her doorstep seeking retribution. Feyre is led to beautiful eternal springs, but the journey is not without danger. Maas masterfully pulls the reader into this new dark fantasy series which feels like a mix of fairy tales, from Beauty and the Beast to Tam Lin.”

- Jessica C. Williams, Westlake Porter Public Library, Westlake, OH

A God in Ruins: A Novel
by Kate Atkinson

“In A God in Ruins, we become reacquainted with Teddy Todd, the beloved little brother of Ursula from Atkinson’s last book. As with Life After Life, this novel skims back and forth in time, and we see the last half of the 20th century through Ted’s eyes and the eyes of his loved ones. At times funny and at others heartbreaking, Atkinson revels in the beauty and horror of life in all its messiness.”

- Jennifer Dayton, Darien Library, Darien, CT

The Water Knife: A Novel
by Paolo Bacigalupi

“Bacigalupi’s novel looks at the possible struggle for water rights in the southwestern United States. Reading Bacigalupi’s novel made me thankful for the current easy access to clean drinking water, yet fearful for our future. A great read for any fan of dystopian fiction.”

- Lindsay Atwood, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ

The Knockoff: A Novel
by Lucy Sykes and Jo Piazza

“The Knockoff is a digital-age mash-up of old-school movies The Women and All About Eve, set in the Devil Wears Prada world of a high fashion magazine. I absolutely loved this fresh, charming, addictive and ultimately heroic story of 40-something cancer survivor Imogen’s quest to rescue and rebuild her career, despite the machinations of a younger tech-wiz rival.”

- Janet Schneider, Bryant Library, Roslyn, NY

Early Warning: A Novel
by Jane Smiley

“In the second book of the Langdon trilogy, the Pulitzer Prize winning novelist follows the next generation of the unforgettable Iowa family introduced in Some Luck. Beginning with the death of the patriarch Walter in 1953, Smiley chronicles the social consciousness in America of the 1960s. The book goes up to events in the 1970s and early 1980s that touch each family member in unforeseen ways.”

- Jennifer Winberry, Hunterdon County Library, Flemington, NJ

Seveneves: A Novel
by Neal Stephenson

“Stephenson’s back in fine form with this hard science fiction masterpiece, combining the detail of Cryptonomicon with the fast-paced action of Reamde. Fans of Anathem will appreciate Stephenson’s speculation about the possibilities of human evolution. This book is a great follow-up for readers who enjoyed the science of Weir’s The Martian. I heartily recommend Seveneves to SF readers.”

- Keith Hayes, Wake County Public Libraries, Cary, NC

The Ghost Fields
by Elly Griffiths

“Griffiths has written another strong entry in her excellent Ruth Galloway series. Here, Ruth is called in when a World War II plane is excavated, complete with pilot–but the pilot is in the wrong plane. Strong characters combine with an absorbing puzzle to create a hard-to-put-down mystery.”

- Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY

Our Souls at Night: A Novel
by Kent Haruf

“Beautiful, elegant and poignant, this novel is a distilled experience of Haruf’s writing. The story of how two elders attempt to poke at the loneliness and isolation that surrounds them will stick with me for a long time to come. I’m amazed at how Haruf says so much with such spare prose. He will be missed.”

- Alison Kastner, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Little Black Lies
by Sharon Bolton

“Set in the Falkland Islands, this novel grabs you from the opening paragraph. A child is missing, and he’s not the first. The incident sets off a chain of events leading to multiple characters confessing to murder. Accustomed to living in an idyllic community, fear and anger escalate among the locals. Bolton has created a page-turner of a story with a surprise ending.”

- Elizabeth Kanouse, Denville Public Library, Denville, NJ