Author: Mary Metcalf

ADULT FICTION

“America Was Hard to FInd” by Kathleen Alcott — “…Alcott brings awe-inspiring exactitude and lyricism to her dive into three of America’s most iconic moments: the race to space, the rage against the Vietnam War, and the ravages of the AIDS epidemic. Three indelible characters embody truths about this country in transition: Vincent Kahn, a test pilot training at Edwards Air Force Base for the first Astronaut Corps; Fay Fern, daughter of wealth and fortune thumbing her nose at her parents’ and country’s excessive ways while working at a dive bar her sister owns; and Wright Fern, Fay’s son, the permanent result of her transitory affair with Vincent. Vincent’s towering fame as the first man on the moon ultimately leads him to a life of seclusion, while Fay’s fury at the injustices of war draws her to Shelter, a domestic terrorist group in which her role in a deadly bombing makes her one of America’s most wanted. Rejecting his mother’s politics and precarious lifestyle, teenage Wright explores his true sexual nature in San Francisco in the early 1980s, to both life-affirming and deadly effect. In her exquisite and poignant reimagining of historic events, Alcott dissects their impacts in a sweeping yet intimate saga that challenges assumptions and assesses the depths of human frustration. ” — Carol Haggas. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“The Daughters of Temperance Hobbs” by Katherine Howe — n historian Howe’s follow-up to The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane (2009), Connie Goodwin, an expert in colonial-era magic, is now a tenure-track professor in Boston still deeply in love with Sam Hartley, the strapping steeplejack she met in Physick Book. Sam wants to marry Connie, but she fears it will be the end of him, quite literally, as the paramours of the women in her Massachusetts family, which include Deliverance Dane, have always died young under tragic circumstances. When Connie discovers that she’s pregnant, she delves back into the long lineage of mystical women in her family, many of whom were suspected of witchcraft, reaching back to seventeenth-century Salem. Connie scours the history books, looking for an ancestress who managed to save her husband and discovers Temperance Hobbs, whose portrait hangs in Connie’s mother’s house and whose husband lived to be more than 100 in the nineteenth century. Howe, who shares her protagonist’s legacy, weaves together stories of Connie’s ancestors’ attempts to harness their power and Connie’s own race to save Sam’s life in this spellbinding, satisfying tale.” — Kristine Huntley. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“Have You Seen Luis Velez?” by Catherine Ryan Hyde — “Hyde … has created another heartwarming story about how people treat one another badly but also how surprising human connections might fix the world. At 17, Raymond Jaffe is uncomfortable in his skin and doesn’t fit in at school or in his two homes with either of his divorced parents. Mildred Gutermann, a 92-year-old blind neighbor, calls for help in his New York City walk-up, and, unlike everyone else, Raymond comes to her aid. He starts by rescuing a stray cat and is soon traveling all over the city meeting people while he’s trying to find the old lady’s former caretaker, Luis Velez. When he discovers Luis’s tragic fate, his life opens up in new directions with new people who become his chosen family. Hyde’s latest asks tough questions about how we care for one another and judge before we know people based on race, stereotypes, and prejudice. … Jan Marry, Lanexa, VA. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2019.

“If You Cross the River” by Genevieve Damas — “Damas welcomes readers into the mind of Francois, an illiterate teenager who tends the pigs on his family’s remote farm in a murky time and place. He’s always heeded his father’s warning to stay on their side of the river. But he watched his beloved sister, Maryse, cross, never to return again, and his curiosity begins to outweigh his obedience. He seeks reading lessons from the local priest, a kind man with troubles of his own, in the hopes of learning not only about Maryse but also about his brother who died and the mother he never met. On the page, if not in front of his harsh father and older brothers, Francois is warm and vulnerable, afraid that he’s stupid, as his father says he is, or “bonkers” for having a pig for a best friend. As translated by American poet Gladding, his authentically rendered thoughts, startling discoveries, and creeping awareness of danger make for an intriguing, fable-like tale of words’ capacity to liberate.” — Annie Bostrom. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“Lost Roses” by Martha Hall Kelly — “Kelly is back with another epic tale of three women’s lives overlapping against the backdrop of history, this time a generation earlier than–and starring the mother of a heroine from–her debut, The Lilac Girls (2017). The setting is WWI and the Russian Revolution; the stories are inspired by true events. New Yorker Eliza Ferriday returns home when her tour of Russia with her school friend Sofya Streshnayva, a cousin of the Romanovs, is cut short by the outbreak of war in Europe. Sofya’s family retires to their country estate to wait out the troubles, while Eliza works to find refuge and employment for displaced Russians in America. Sofya hires a local peasant girl, Varinka, to help with her small son, unaware of the danger that Varinka’s revolutionary connections pose to her family. Kelly’s gift is bringing to life and to light the untold stories of women and families far away from the war front yet deeply affected by the decisions of leaders and the efforts of fighters.” — Alene Moroni. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“Naamah: A Novel” by Sarah Blake — “Blake transports readers to biblical times in her first novel, examining the plight of Noah and his ark through the eyes of Noah’s wife, Naamah. In addition to the animals they load onto the ark, Noah and Naamah also bring their three grown sons and their sons’ wives. But life on the ark after the torrential rains leaves Naamah with plenty of time for reflection, which sends her diving into the waters day after day. In their depths, Naamah discovers an angel tending to a city of the dead, largely populated by children. As Naamah wrestles with the horror of their deaths, her own grief over the passing of her lover, who refused to stow away on the ark, and her anger at God for bringing the floods, she finds she can no longer see the animals aboard the ark. Vivid dreams of a talking bird and a sage female descendant further limn the depths of Naamah’s crisis of faith. Blake’s tale is a powerful exploration of the trauma of change and the reckoning required to move on from unimaginable loss. Kristine Huntley.” — AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“Sabrina & Corina” by Kali Fajardo-Anstine — “Latina and Indigenous American women who long to be seen–and see themselves–are the beating heart of the stories in Fajardo-Anstine’s rich and radiant debut. Many of their parents aren’t around, and the pleas of their elders to go to church once in a while are mostly ignored, but they lean on one another. Dead or dying loved ones people many of these tales; the dazzling title story launches with woozy velocity as a makeup artist heeds her grandmother’s wish that she beautify her dead cousin for funeral viewing. …Sharing her characters’ southern Colorado homelands, Fajardo-Anstine imbues her stories with a strong sense of place and the infinite unseen generations that coexist in even single moments.” Annie Bostrom. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“A Woman is No Man” by Etaf Rum — ” “Through well-developed characters and a wonderfully paced narrative, [Rum] exposes the impact that the embedded patriarchy of some cultures can have on women while showing more broadly how years of shame, secrets, and betrayal can burden families across generations no matter what the cultural or religious affiliation. Highly recommended.” — Library Journal, starred review

BIOGRAPHY

“Chaucer: A European Life” by Marion Turner — “English poet Geoffrey Chaucer (d. 1400) was a citizen of London but also of Europe and the larger world embraced by trade and commerce. Turner (English, Jesus Coll., Univ. of Oxford; Chaucerian Conflict: Languages of Antagonism in Late Fourteenth-Century London ) aspires to capture the poet’s “individual perception of reality,” a viewpoint conditioned by his physical world and “particularity of perspective,” by focusing on how the author of The Canterbury Tales organized his writings by place and space as much as by strict chronology, presenting a deep dive into his material as well as aesthetic culture. Turner is especially adept at integrating the specifics of Chaucer’s verse into that of his physical world, from food and sumptuary display to economics and politics….VERDICT Sure to become the new standard life of Chaucer.”-Thomas L. Cooksey, formerly with Armstrong Atlantic State Univ., Savannah. LJ Xpress Online Review. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2019.

“Heavy” An American Memoir” by Kiese Laymon — “Race, politics, poverty, addiction, body issues, family, manhood, feminism, education–this book has it all. Laymon … breaks down what it means to be a large black boy growing up in Mississippi, exploring the politics and policing of black male bodies, the heartache of black excellence and white privilege, the conflict that comes with loving an abusive parent and stepping away to save yourself. As beautiful as it is heartbreaking, this examination of language and place takes readers into Laymon’s childhood as the son of a strong black woman who is unable to reconcile her child’s pain with her own. Sexual abuse and anorexia are examined with care and attention, as are the emotions and consequences attached to these experiences. …Excellent for readers interested in family dynamics, race relations, higher education, and body awareness.”– Gricel Dominguez, LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

“The Line Becomes a River” by Francisco Cantu — “An agent for the United States Border Patrol from 2008 to 2012, third-generation Mexican American Cantu wearied of tracking humans through heat and cold and delivering them to detention and sometimes the morgue. An immigrant friend’s disappearance after returning to Mexico to visit family prompted him to consider what happens during immigration on both sides of the border.” — Barbara Hoffert. LJ Prepub Alert Online Review. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2017.

“Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive” by Stephanie Land — “Land’s memoir of single motherhood and poverty gives a personal account of the factors influencing those issues. An unplanned pregnancy ends Land’s dream of attending college in Missoula, Montana. An abusive boyfriend (soon to be ex-boyfriend), parents that aren’t financially or emotionally able to be supportive, and a lack of a social network further conspire against her until she and her young daughter find themselves living in a homeless shelter. What follows is a series of woefully low-paying, back-breaking jobs; attempts to navigate complicated and inadequate government assistance; and scenes of public shaming for “handouts.” Land’s honest writing, especially about her feelings of inadequacy, and her insights into the people whose homes she cleans are beyond engaging. Readers will understand working hard while simultaneously fearing that if one thing goes wrong, if one unplanned expense rears its ugly head, if one benefit doesn’t come through, a delicate balance could be completely upended…” –Kathy Sexton. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II” by Sonia Purnell — “The Gestapo called her the most dangerous of Allied spies, but her gender and prosthetic leg kept Virginia Hall out of the U.S. foreign service, and she instead wrested her way into Winston Churchill’s famously break-the-rules Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. The first woman to deploy to occupied France, she managed a network of spies that blew up bridges, reported on German troop movements, rendezvoused with Resistance fighters, and saw her face on wanted posters everywhere. ” — Barbara Hoffert. LJ Prepub Alert Online Review. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

ADULT MYSTERY

“The 18th Abduction” by James Patterson — “Detective Lindsay Boxer’s investigation into the disappearance of three teachers quickly escalates from missing persons to murder in the newest Women’s Murder Club thriller.” — Amazon.com

“A Stranger Here Below” by Charles Fergus – “Imbued with Michael Connelly’s gumshoe skills and the vivid historical descriptions of Charles Frazier, A Stranger Here Below is a stark procedural set in the backwoods of Pennsylvania circa 1830. Charles Fergus displays a deft touch in detailing the rough and tumble life of everyday 19th-century America.” – Brad Smith,author of The Return of Kid Cooper and the Virgil Cain mysteries

“Lethal White” by Robert Galbraith –” Under her Galbraith pseudonym, J.K. Rowling impressively sustains suspense…London PI Cormoran Strike and his partner, Robin Ellacott … have reunited professionally … The “curious case of a government minister, slashed horses and a body buried in a pink blanket, down in a dell” begins when a man named Billy, “one of those ill and desperate people you saw in the capital who were always somebody else’s problem,” bursts into Strike’s office and claims that he saw a child strangled when he was very young. Billy flees before offering more information, but Strike’s curiosity about the possible cold case leads him to try to trace Billy. Soon after, in what seems to be suspicious timing, Strike is retained by Culture Minister Jasper Chiswell to protect him against an extortionist, who turns out to be Billy’s brother, Jimmy Knight. Rowling’s emotionally intelligent portrayal of her protagonists never overwhelms the whodunit story line.” — Agent: Neil Blair, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“Morality for Beautiful Girls” by Alexander McCall Smith — ” In Morality for Beautiful Girls, Precious Ramotswe, founder and owner of the only detective agency for the concerns of both ladies and others, investigates the alleged poisoning of the brother of an important “Government Man,” and the moral character of the four finalists of the Miss Beauty and Integrity Contest, the winner of which will almost certainly be a contestant for the title of Miss Botswana. Yet her business is having money problems, and when other difficulties arise at her fianc?’s Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors, she discovers the reliable Mr J.L.B. Matekoni is more complicated then he seems.” — Inside Flap

“Neon Prey” by John Sandford — “Deese is a New Orleans hit man who works mostly for a lawyer and loan shark named Roger Smith. It’s worked well through the years, though Smith has never known about Deese’s propensity for cannibalizing his murder victims. When a burial ground linked to Deese is found with several munched-on corpses, U.S. Marshall Lucas Davenport is called to assist the FBI in tracking Deese. With the help of federal agents Bob and Rae (a longstanding series joke referencing the comedy duo Bob and Ray), Davenport follows the trail to Los Angeles, where Deese has hooked up with a home-invasion crew, who have been hugely successful preying on anonymous Southern California multimillionaires. They terrorize but never injure, and then walk away with cash, jewelry, and valuable art. It’s a good gig. But as soon as Deese shows up, it all goes to hell. His violence changes the dynamic and brings law enforcement too close, prompting the crew to head for Las Vegas, which is where Lucas, Bob, and Rae close in. The Prey novels are wildly entertaining with their clever plotting, mordant humor, and smart-ass dialogue. This one doesn’t break the pattern.” — Wes Lukowsky. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“Redemption” by David Baldacci — “While visiting his hometown, Amos Tucker is accosted by the first person he ever arrested, trembling with illness after years in prison and still maintaining his innocence. Believing him, Amos soon realizes that he could prevent another crime.” — Barbara Hoffert. LJ Prepub Alert Online Review. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

“Wolf Pack” by C. J. Box — “Back on the job after some trouble he encountered in The Disappeared, Joe Pickett is distraught to learn that the drone killing wildlife in the vicinity belongs to a rich mystery man whose grandson is dating Joe’s daughter. He’s even more distraught when a bunch of dead bodies signal that killers known as the Wolf Pack, working for the notorious Sinaloa cartel, have dropped by. So Joe teams up with a female game warden, based on an actual person that the multi-award-winning, No. 1 New York Times best-selling author knows.” — Barbara Hoffert. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

ADULT NON-FICTION

“Accidental Presidents: Eight Men Who Changed America” by Jared Cohen — Four American presidents have been assassinated (Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley, and Kennedy), three died in office unexpectedly (Harrison, Taylor, Harding), and one of a prolonged illness (FDR). In each case, despite the lack of a clear constitutional provision for it (the 25th Amendment came later), they were succeeded by their vice presidents. Cohen skirts the matter of Gerald Ford’s succession to the resigned Richard Nixon, citing his reasons for doing so, but it’s unfortunate that he almost ignores the nation’s most definitively “accidental presidency.” But the story he does tell is illuminating, particularly in its treatment of John Tyler’s assumption of the presidency after the death of Harrison and how that event set the precedent of succession, which was far from a foregone conclusion. He also covers in depth the selection of the respective vice presidents and the detail surrounding the transitions…. this is genuinely interesting history on a topic that has never been addressed in this depth.” — Mark Levine. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“The Botany of Desire: A Plant’s-Eye View of the World“ — “[Pollan] has a wide-ranging intellect, an eager grasp of evolutionary biology and a subversive streak that helps him to root out some wonderfully counterintuitive points. His prose both shimmers and snaps, and he has a knack for finding perfect quotes in the oddest places…. Best of all, Pollan really loves plants.”
—The New York Times Book Review

“Fall and Rise: The Story of 9/11” by Mitchell Zuckoff — “On September 11, 2001, 2,996 people died in a series of four carefully planned, skillfully executed attacks against the United States, notably at the sites of the Twin Towers in New York and the Pentagon in Virginia. Then a Boston Globe reporter, Zuckoff …wrote the lead story on the day of the attacks. Here, he reconstructs the event using a series of vignettes about the four planes and the tragedy that resulted, relating survivors’ stories interspersed with what is known of the last minutes of those who perished that day. The author also mentions some of the lasting mental and physical injuries experienced by survivors and first responders. The facts overall are well known, but Zuckoff succeeds in humanizing the terror. He mostly avoids the domestic and international response, instead choosing to focus on the victims and their stories. …” — Edwin Burgess, LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2019.

“If We Can Keep It: How the Republic Collapsed and How It Might be Saved” by Michael Tomasky — “Tomasky … turns his considerable analytical talents to an investigation of our current political situation set within an historical framework dating back to the origins of the United States. He concludes that although our nation may seem broken, it is not beyond repair, and provides a number of possible solutions to cure what he refers to as our “Age of Fracture.” These include expanding the size of the House of Representatives, reconsidering the Electoral College, fighting the Senate filibuster, and limiting partisan gerrymandering. On the social front, Tomasky argues for college students to spend their first three years studying, with their fourth and final year being one of service. Moreover, the author believes that civics education should be greatly improved in order to maintain an informed society.” — Ed Goedeken, LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2019.

” The Mueller report : presented with related materials by The Washington Post” by Robert S. Mueller — “The Mueller report is that rare Washington tell-all that surpasses its pre-publication hype…the best book by far on the workings of the Trump presidency. It was delivered to the attorney general but is also written for history. The book reveals the president in all his impulsiveness, insecurity and growing disregard for rules and norms; White House aides alternating between deference to the man and defiance of his ‘crazy s—‘ requests; and a campaign team too inept to realize, or too reckless to care, when they might have been bending the law. And special counsel Robert Mueller has it all under oath, on the record, along with interviews and contemporaneous notes backing it up.” —Carlos Lozada, The Washington Post

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

LARGE PRINT
“Never Game” by Jeffrey Deaver — “Colter Shaw is a reward seeker. Parents, husbands, wives offer rewards for the safe return of their missing loved ones; Colter finds the missing people and claims the rewards. Not, perhaps, the most altruistic of vocations, but Colter, the son of survivalist parents, is very good at what he does. … Shaw navigates the duplicitous world of Silicon Valley to find a missing woman; when another person goes missing, Shaw realizes this is much more than one case of kidnapping. Shaw is a carefully constructed character with a rich backstory that could spark several novels (his own family history features a particularly tantalizing mystery). …Deaver is a hit maker who always delivers the goods.” — David Pitt. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019

“The Yankee Widow” by Linda Lael Miller — “Romance author Miller (The Marriage Charm, 2015) brings readers a compelling Civil War-era novel that depicts the agonizing fear that people dealt with while the nation was at war. Caroline Hammond is running her family’s farm after losing her husband. She is barely able to mourn his passing when the Union Army arrives, led by a Captain Rogan McBride, on his way to Gettysburg. After the battle, he sets up the wounded at Hammond Farm. Caroline is a strong woman with good people surrounding her and they are all ready for whatever troubles may come. This includes a wounded friend of McBride’s, Captain Bridger Winslow, who is a Confederate, and whom Caroline must be convinced to house until he is well. Both McBride and Winslow fall in love with Caroline and so begins the romance she must sort out as the war comes to a close. ….Readers will keep turning the pages to learn what future awaits Caroline and the others who suffered alongside her.” — Emily Borsa. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

MUSIC
“Kidz Bop 39”
“Live From the Forbidden City – Orff: Carmina Burana”

BLUE/DVD
“Amistad”
“Apollo 11”
“Bohemian Rhapsody”
“Fighting With My Family”
“How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World”
“The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part”
“Mary Poppins Returns”
“Never Look Away”
“On the Basis of Sex”
“Pound Puppies”
“RGB”
“The Secret Exhibit: LEGO Jurassic World”
“Sharp Objects”
“Smallfoot”

BOARD BOOK
“Bizzy Bear Race Car Driver” by Benji Davies
“I Want My Hat Back” by Jon Klassen

PICTURE BOOK
“Allie All Along” by Sarah Lynne Reul
“Babymoon” by Hayley Barrett
“Being Edie” by Hard Today
“Big Problemas (Juana & Lucas)” by Juana Medina
“Bilal Cooks Daal” by Aisha Saeed
“Camp Tiger” by Susan Choi
“Cowhide-And-Seek” by Sheri Dillard
“Codzilla” by David Zietser
“Cyril and Pat” by Emily Gravett
“The Fabled Fourth Graders of Aesop Elementary School” by Candace Fleming
“The Fabled Fifth Graders of Aesop Elementary School” by Candace Fleming
“The Girls” by Lauren Ace
“Going Down Home with Daddy” by Kelly Starling Lyons
“Hair Love” by Matthew Cherry
“Harold & Hog Pretend for Real” by Mo Willems
“Hello” by Fiona Woodcock
“Henry and Mudge Under the Yellow Moon” by Cynthia Rylant
“How to Read a Book” by Kwame Alexander
“A Hundred Billion Million Stars” by Seth Fishman
“Life on Mars” by Jon Agee
“The Little Green Girl” by Lisa Anchin
“Llama Destroys the World” by Jonathan Stutzman
“Me and My Fear” by Francesca Sanna
“My Cat Looks Like My Dad” by Thao Lam
“My Papi has a Motorcycle” by Isabel Quintero
“Three Stories You Can Read to Your Dog” by Sara Swan Miller
“You Are Home: An Ode to the National Parks” by Evan Turk

JUVENILE AUDIO

“Sammy Keyes and the Killer Cruise” by Wendelin Van Draanen — “Van Draanen offers such an explosive combination of high-stakes sleuthing, hilarity, and breathlessly paced action that it’s impossible to turn the pages fast enough.” —Kirkus Reviews 

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“How Emily Saved the Bridge” by Frieda Wishinsky & Natalie Nelson — Wishinsky begins her story of Emily Warren Roebling with a modern mother and child crossing the Brooklyn Bridge: “Emily Roebling inspired me to become an engineer.” In 19th-century New York, the text explains, girls were told that they shouldn’t study math or science-a suggestion that Roebling pointedly rejected. Roebling marries an engineer who begins designing a bridge to span the East River; when he becomes ill, she educates herself in engineering and design in order to assume her husband’s role. Wishinsky details the missteps and triumphs of the bridge’s construction, while Nelson illustrates in an eclectic collage art style with paper dolllike characters and playfully skewed perspective. Roebling’s story doesn’t end with the bridge’s completion: “In 1899, she graduated in law from New York University. She was fifty-six years old. Her final essay focused on equal rights for women.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2019.

JUVENILE FICTION

“The Fabled Fourth Graders of Aesop Elementary School” by Candace Fleming — “The fourth graders at Aesop Elementary are, well, unusual. There’s Calvin Tallywong, who wants to go back to kindergarten. But when he actually gets the chance, he’s forced to do the squirrel dance and wear a school bus name tag. The moral of his story? Be careful what you wish for. Then there’s Amisha Spelwadi, who can spell wildebeest, no problem. But when Mr. Jupiter asks the class to spell cat, all Amisha can come up with is kat. The moral: Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” — Amazon

“The Fabled Fifth Graders of Aesop Elementary School” by Candace Fleming — “In the sequel to The Fabled Fourth Graders of Aesop Elementary School by award-winning author Candace Fleming, Mr. Jupiter’s rambunctious students are fifth graders now . . . and they rule the school! Bernadette Braggadoccio stirs things up when her investigative reporting for the school’s TV station reveals some scandalous stuff. But . . . don’t believe everything you hear. For their last year at Aesop, the fifth graders are hoping for the coolest class pet—a unicorn or at least a giant squid. Imagine their disappointment when they get guinea pigs. But . . . appearances can be deceiving.” — Amazon

“The First Rule of Punk” by Celia Perez — “The first rule of punk is to be yourself, but it’s hard for Malu, the bicultural daughter of divorced parents, to know exactly what that means. Her white dad doesn’t understand her internal struggles with her Mexican American identity, and her mom would rather Malu were more “senorita” than punk. Starting a band becomes a chance to explore her heritage as well as her musical interests. Eight-page “zines” featuring Malu’s collages punctuate the text.” — THE HORN BOOK, c2017.

“Just South of Home” by Karen Strong — Twelve-year-old Sarah and her kid brother, Ellis, know trouble has arrived in their hometown of Warrenville, Georgia, when their meddlesome 11-year-old cousin with sticky fingers, Janie, comes to stay for the summer. … Strong packs a lot of heart into this vivid debut about love, family, forgiveness, and the kinds of horrors few can scarcely conceive. Her forthright prose and arresting plot make this an effortless page-turner with just the right amount of chilling descriptions to make you reel at the sight of shadows. …. Free-flowing dialogue, a rich story line, and warm characters nicely ground the more supernatural elements. This is a must for readers who appreciate a heartfelt mystery.” — Mahjabeen Syed. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

“See You in the Cosmos” by Jack Cheng — “Eleven-year-old Alex Petroski is from Rockview, Colorado, U.S.A., Planet Earth. He is recording sounds on his iPod to send into space, just like astronomer Carl Sagan did on his Voyager Golden Records (Alex admires Mr. Sagan so much that he named his dog after him). As he gets ready to attend a rocket festival in Albuquerque, Alex also records an audio journal of his life. Since his mom is not functional and his dad is dead, Alex travels by train solo with his dog. When Ancestry.com alerts him to a man with a name and birth date that match his father’s, Alex determines to go to Las Vegas to search for him–and ends up losing canine Carl Sagan. This book’s strength is its exuberant and utterly believable first-person narrator: Alex is portrayed as intelligent and naive, irritating and endearing. But it’s his earnestness that attracts a motley collection of adults who help when his mom goes missing.” — Michelle Young, AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2016.

“Super Jake & the King of Chaos” by Naomi Milliner — “Aspiring magician Ethan, 11, learns the true meaning of magic in this charming and heartwarming debut. Ethan is desperate to enter a magic competition in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the winner of which will meet and perform with Magnus the Magnificent, Ethan’s hero. Though Ethan makes money doing magic shows for children’s parties, with his younger brother Freddy as his assistant, his earnings won’t cover his expenses to Atlantic City from Maryland. Just when he thinks he’s figured out a way to make the trip, his baby brother Jake gets seriously ill. Jake has a neurological disorder and can’t talk or move on his own, but he’s always smiling and is adored by his family and therapists. Ethan is fiercely loyal to his family, getting in trouble for shoving the new kid at school when he calls Jake the hurtful r-word. Ethan needs a miracle to save his brother and achieve his heart’s desire. This honest and uplifting portrayal of children with disabilities feels real, and the ways in which the members of Ethan’s family interact with one another feels right: they disagree but also love and appreciate one another, and their love for Jake brings out the best in all of them.” — Sharon Rawlins. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2019.

JUVENILE NON FICTION
“Girls with Guts! The Road to Breaking Barriers and Bashing Records” by Debbie Gonzales — “In this uplifting tribute to gutsy athletes, Gonzales introduces little-known figures who competed even when told not to. Melpomene, a marathon runner, ran “alongside the men,” then “around the entire stadium,” at the 1896 Olympic Games, and Gertrude Ederle swam the English Channel in 1926. Also included is Congresswoman Edith Green, whose campaign against “athletic injustice” led to the 1972 passing of Title IX, which mandates “equal treatment for competitive girls.” Gibbon’s paintings feature lanky athletes wearing self-assured expressions and dressed in the often-restrictive attire of their eras. Gonzales suggests that it is important to honor the brave athletes who made it possible for girls and women today to “stomp, jab, tackle, grind, and SWEAT.” Back matter includes a detailed timeline of milestones for female athletes.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2019.

“Planet Earth is Blue” by Nicole Panteleakos — “Autistic astronomy lover Nova Vezina is 12 years old in January 1986, and although she rarely speaks, she understands much more than people give her credit for. Her older sister, Bridget, is the only person who really sees her, but when Bridget runs away, Nova is placed in yet another foster home, this time alone. To cope, she counts down the 10 days to the Challenger shuttle launch, which Bridget promised to watch with her. In the meantime, her new foster family works hard not only to understand and support Nova, but also to encourage her teachers and social worker to see her in a new light. Readers familiar with the Challenger’s fate will recognize the approaching tragedy, but the love of Nova’s new family envelops her when its harsh reality hits. Debut author Panteleakos develops a believable, authentic point of view through Nova’s letters to her sister (called “scribbles” by her teacher), which distill her own memories, sensitivities (“pencils scratch papers, which bothers my ears”), and interests alongside 1980s attitudes about autism. A sensitively told story that may help young readers stretch their compassion and empathy.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2019.

YOUNG ADULT

“Boots on the Ground: America’s War in Vietnam” by Elizabeth Partridge — “Partridge’s indispensable volume about the Vietnam War employs a powerfully moving structure that sends readers back and forth between America and Vietnam over a twenty-year period. Each chapter centers on an individual affected: Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon; Martin Luther King Jr.; Maya Lin; etc., alternating with eight people (seven veterans, one Vietnamese refugee) Partridge interviewed. Ample direct quotes and carefully researched details, along with spectacular photographs, bring the war close.” — Bib., THE HORN BOOK, c2018.

“Neanderthal Opens the Door to the Universe” by Preston Norton — “At six feet, six inches tall and two hundred and fifty pounds, Cliff Hubbard’s cruel school nickname is “Neanderthal.” At home, his hateful dad continues the bullying, and Cliff blames himself for his brother’s recent suicide. Then quarterback Aaron has a near-death experience and God commands him to enlist Cliff’s help to improve their school. Sixteen-year-old Cliff’s expletive-filled, sharply funny, and bittersweet coming-of-age narrative is completely captivating.” — jf. THE HORN BOOK, c2019.

ADULT FICTION

“Circe” by Madeline Miller — “Circe,’ [is] a bold and subversive retelling of the goddess’s story that manages to be both epic and intimate in its scope, recasting the most infamous female figure from the Odyssey as a hero in her own right.”―Alexandra Alter, New York Times

“Darksoul: The Gods of Light are Falling” by Anna Stephens — “Outstanding and savage…The desperate tone gives way to breathtaking action….” — Grimdark Magazine

“Dead Men’s Trousers” by Irvine Welsh — “Raunchy, profane, violent, and frequently hilarious… Dead Men’s Trousers delivers a strangely life-affirming dose of dark absurdity, ensuring that, if this is the last we see of these characters, they won’t soon be forgotten.” – starred Booklist review“

“The Forgiving Kind” by Donna Everhart — “….(Everhart) follows 12-year-old Sonny as she struggles to maintain the life she has always known while everything around her changes. Sonny loves working with her family on their farm in 1950s North Carolina and exploring the land with her best friend, Daniel. It’s Sonny’s dad who knows her best, even revealing a little bit of magic in passing on his ability to divine water. When Sonny’s father dies, unexpected help arrives in the form of next-door neighbor Frank Fowler. Sonny’s mama is taken in by Fowler’s charm and accepts his offer to fund their cotton crop for the season, but Sonny and Daniel suspect he is not the benevolent savior he appears to be. By picking on Daniel, who is still trying to understand how he is different from his friends, and aligning himself with known Klansmen, Fowler’s true nature reveals itself, leading Sonny on an exploration of what kind of person she wants to be. Reminiscent of the novels of Lee Smith, Kaye Gibbons, and Sandra Dallas, Everhart builds a firm sense of place, portraying the tiredness and hope of a dry southern summer and voicing strong southern women.” — Tracy Babiasz. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018

“Gentleman Sinner” by Jody Ellen Malpas — “A magnetic mutual attraction, a superalpha, and long-buried scars that are healed by love. Theo is irresistible.”―Booklist

“The Great Believers” by Rebecca Makkai — ” “Rebecca Makkai’s The Great Believers is a page turner… among the first novels to chronicle the AIDS epidemic from its initial outbreak to the present—among the first to convey the terrors and tragedies of the epidemic’s early years as well as its course and repercussions…An absorbing and emotionally riveting story about what it’s like to live during times of crisis.”—The New York Times Book Review

“The Highland Renegade: A Lord of the Highlands Novel” by Amy Jarecki — “Jarecki further enhances her reputation for crafting stellar Scottish romances by giving readers a knockout love story, with an action-packed plot richly imbued with colorful period details and a perfectly matched hero and heroine whose sensual exploits are hot enough to warm the coldest of Scottish nights.” — Booklist

“Just Once: Contemporary Women’s Fiction” by Lori Handeland — “…a gripping, if predictable, tearjerker. Francesca “Frankie” Sicari, who is “close enough to Social Security to smell it,” is awakened one night by persistent pounding on her front door in Whitefish Bay, Wis. The man standing outside is her ex-husband, Charley Blackwell, to whom she has hardly spoken since their divorce 24 years ago. Charley, a photojournalist, has just returned from a long assignment in Africa. It soon becomes disturbingly apparent to Frankie that, for Charley, the last 26 years have ceased to exist. In his mind, he’s still married to her and not his current wife, Hannah. What follows is a literary duet featuring the two wives. Through flashbacks, readers come to understand how Frankie’s marriage fell apart and how Hannah’s began, as well as a full picture of the peripatetic man who was always on his way to the next dramatic photo assignment, be it a riot, an explosion, or a war. Those who like to run through a full box of tissues in an afternoon will be satisfied.” — Agent: Robin Rue, Writers House. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“The New Iberia Blues” by James Lee Burke — “With his lush, visionary prose and timeless literary themes of loss and redemption, Burke is in full command in this outing for his aging but still capable hero.”—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“The Patricide of George Benjamin Hill” by James Charlesworth — “Charlesworth’s debut novel takes a sweeping sideways look at American ambition and even the
great American novel. However, the tone is never cynical in this family tragedy. Rather, there is a beautiful sadness as well mournful anger as Charlesworth evokes the loss following consequential choices.”—Booklist, starred review

“The Perfect Nanny” by Leila Slimani — “Expertly probes [a mother’s] guilt at leaving her children with a stranger . . . Those seeking a thought-provoking character study will appreciate this gripping anatomy of a crime.” —Publishers Weekly

“There There: A Novel” by Tommy Orange — “Commanding…The propulsion of both the overall narrative and its players are breathtaking as Orange unpacks how decisions of the past mold the present, resulting in a haunting and gripping story.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Washington Black” by Esi Edugyan — “High adventure fraught with cliffhanger twists marks this runaway-slave narrative, which leaps, sails, and soars from Caribbean cane fields to the fringes of the frozen Arctic and across a whole ocean . . . One of the most unconventional escapes from slavery ever chronicled . . . Edugyan displays as much ingenuity and resourcefulness as her main characters in spinning this yarn, and the reader’s expectations are upended almost as often as her hero’s. A thoughtful, boldly imagined ripsnorter that broadens inventive possibilities for the antebellum novel.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred)

BIOGRAPHY

“Churchill: Walking with Destiny” by Andrew Roberts The best single-volume biography of Churchill yet written. . . . Roberts tells this story with great authority and not a little panache. He writes elegantly, with enjoyable flashes of tartness, and is in complete command both of his sources and the vast historiography.” — —Richard Aldous, The New York Times

“Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom” by David W. Blight — “David Blight has written the definitive biography of Frederick Douglass. With extraordinary detail he illuminates the complexities of Douglass’s life and career and paints a powerful portrait of one of the most important American voices of the 19th century. . . . The resulting chronicle enriches our understanding of Douglass and the challenges he faced and offers a lesson for our own troubled times. . . . Magisterial.” — (Eddie S. Glaude, Jr. The Boston Globe)

“Small Fry: A Memoir” by Lisa Brennan-Jobs — “An epic, sharp coming-of-age story from the daughter of Steve Jobs. It’s rare to find a memoir from a celebrity’s child in which the writing is equal to―or exceeds―the parent’s reputation, but that is the case with Brennan-Jobs’ debut. In a lesser writer’s hands, the narrative could have devolved into literary revenge. Instead, Brennan-Jobs offers a stunningly beautiful study of parenting that just so happens to include the co-founder of Apple… An exquisitely rendered story of family, love, and identity.”―Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

ADULT MYSTERY

“The Boy: A Novel” by Tami Hoag — “Hoag puts on quite the juggling act here, dazzling us with multiple theories about the boy’s murder, numerous potential suspects, and plot twists that keep us just slightly off-balance. A welcome return for a compelling investigative duo.”—Booklist

“Crucible : A Thriller (Sigma Force Novels)” by James Rollins — “Sigma Force commander Gray Pierce and his best friend, Monk Kokkalis, return to Monk’s house in Silver Spring, Md., after a night out to find the place a wreck. Monk’s wife, Kat, is lying unconscious on the kitchen floor, and Monk’s two daughters, six-year-old Penny and five-year-old Harriet, and Gray’s pregnant wife, Seichan, have been abducted. The operatives learn that the home invasion occurred shortly after a massacre in Portugal that claimed the lives of five women who led an international network of female scientists, which funded groundbreaking AI research conducted by 21-year-old genius Mara Silviera. Mara, who believes that accessing her work was the killers’ goal, is on the run for her life, a plot line that overlaps with the search for Penny, Harriet, and Seichan.” — Agents: Russ Galen, Scovil Galen Ghosh Literary Agency; and Danny Baror, Baror International. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.“

“The Golden Tresses of the Dead: A Falvia de Luca Novel” by Alan Bradley — “Flavia de Luce hasn’t lost a sister, she’s gained a case—and what a case. . . . Perhaps the most consistently hilarious adventure of the alarmingly precocious heroine.”—Kirkus Review”

“Never Tell: A Novel (A D.D. Warren and Flora Dane Novel)” by Lisa Gardner –“Never Tell is another nail-biting page-turner from Lisa Gardner, the undisputed queen of suspense, and the kind of thriller that’ll stay with readers weeks after turning the final page.”—The Real Book Spy

“The Rule of Law : a novel” by John Lescroart — “Lescroart plots so cleverly that he has you believing his split-level thriller is really a single foreshortened novel. The perfect read for those who agree that “it’s only trouble if somebody’s shooting at you.” (Kirkus)

“The Smiling Man” by Joseph Knox — Detective Aidan Waits’ meth habit, propensity for violence, and general disregard for authority have eclipsed his recent implosion of a Manchester drug organization …, and he’s been exiled to the night shift, where he and his barely tolerable partner, Sully, can’t muster much enthusiasm for investigating a series of trash-can fires. That changes when a routine alarm check at a shuttered luxury hotel leads to the discovery of a man’s body. Aidan and Sully have found a solid mystery: the dead man has taken unusual steps to hide his identity by having his fingertips and teeth surgically altered. Aidan’s focus on diving into the secrets of feuding hotel owners, Manchester prostitutes, and the intentionally disappeared is compromised, however, by the fact that his vicious stepfather has hunted him down, determined to settle old scores. The interspersed narrative of a terrified young boy forced to assist his stepfather’s violent crimes offers insight into a past that could breed Aidan’s brand of determined self-destructiveness.” — Christine Tran. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“That Old Scoundrel Death: A Dan Rhodes Mystery” by Bill Crider — “Riding high in his final murder case, Texas Sheriff Dan Rhodes helps a man run off the road who says his name is Cal Stinson, then finds his body in the condemned schoolhouse Cal said he was going to visit. Only he told the caretaker that his name was Bruce Wayne, and it looks as if a bunch of dim-bulb criminals and powerful local families are set to make the sheriff’s life hell.” — Barbara Hoffert. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

ADULT NON-FICTION

“21 Lessons for the 21st Century” by Yuval Noah Harari – “Magnificently combining historical, scientific, political, and philosophical perspectives, Harari . . . explores twenty-one of what he considers to be today’s ‘greatest challenges.’ Despite the title’s reference to ‘lessons,’ his tone is not prescriptive but exploratory, seeking to provoke debate without offering definitive solutions. . . . Within this broad construct, Harari discusses many pressing issues, including problems associated with liberal democracy, nationalism, immigration, and religion. This well-informed and searching book is one to be savored and widely discussed.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“American Prison: A Reporter’s Undercover Journey into the Business of Punishment” by Shane Bauer — “Bauer’s amazing book examines one of slavery’s toxic legacies, using convicted people to make profit . . . He observes an acutely dangerous and out-of-control environment created by CCA’s profit-driven underpaying of staff and understaffing of prisons. Bauer’s historical and journalistic work should be required reading.” —Booklist

“Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America” by Beth Macy — “Americans, representing 5 percent of the world’s population, consume 80 percent of its opioids.” Macy… relates individual stories of OxyContin use in the United States, while also tracing its regulatory history and legal, medical, and social ramifications. The intertwined factors that have led to today’s opioid epidemic play out in stories of health-care providers, patients, pharmaceutical companies, politicians, drug dealers, users, and family members. …, Macy effectively shows how opioid abuse plays no favorites as it works its way into all socioeconomic levels, races, and ethnicities. The accounts of addicts and their families leave no doubt about the power the chemicals hold over the brains they alter. Addicts soon begin using to avoid the symptoms of withdrawal (dopesick) rather than gaining any pleasurable high. Controversies abound over what treatments work. Abstinence versus medication-assisted therapy is an ongoing debate, while profit motives and insurance problems are also factors.” — Richard Maxwell, Porter Adventist Hosp. Lib., Denver. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

“How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence” by Michael Pollan — “… He now investigates a very different sort of comestible, psychedelics (from the Greek: “mind manifesting”), and what they reveal about consciousness and the brain. Pollan’s complexly elucidating and enthralling inquiry combines fascinating and significant history with daring and resonant reportage and memoir, and looks forward to a new open-mindedness toward psychedelics and the benefits of diverse forms of consciousness.” —Booklist (starred review)

“Women Rowing North: Navigating Life’s Current and Flourishing as We Age” by Mary Pipher — “Pipher offers warm, empathetic guidelines for navigating aging and for recognizing its unexpected gifts.” – BookPage

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“The Devil’s Triangle” by Catherine Coulter — “…Wildly creative and twisty plots that take readers on crazy rides around the world are anchored by a core cast of unforgettable characters. Another element that has been great in this series is the developing relationship between Nicholas Drummond and Michaela “Mike” Caine. Thrillers do not get better than this!” (RT Book Reviews, Top Pick )

“Robert B. Parker’s Old Black Magic” by Ace Atkins — “Atkins . . . again captures all the qualities Spenser fans love in the series: smart-ass humor, a touch of romance, plenty of violence, and, of course, Spenser’s complex sense of honor. Atkins adds his own touch in the form of complex plots with genuine mysteries at their center.”—Booklist

“The President is Missing” by Bill Clinton & James Patterson — “This book moves like Air Force One. Big and fast. Clinton and Patterson are a dream combo. Two great storytellers, one inside and one outside, both at the top of the game. They’ve put together an undeniably gripping ride through the hidden passageways of power and politics. This book teaches as much as it entertains.” ―Michael Connelly, #1 bestselling author of the Ballard and Bosch series

LARGE PRINT

“Target: Alex Cross” by James Patterson –“A leader has fallen, and Alex Cross joins the procession of mourners from Capitol Hill to the White House. Then a sniper’s bullet strikes a target in the heart of DC. Alex Cross’s wife, Bree Stone, newly elevated chief of DC detectives must solve the case or lose her position. The Secret Service and the FBI deploy as well in the race to find the shooter. Alex is tasked by the new President to lead an investigation unprecedented in scale and scope. But is the sniper’s strike only the beginning of a larger attack on the nation? ” — Amazon

MUSIC

“Disney Karaoke Series: Frozen”
“Ella Mai”
“Gospel Greats – Aretha Franklin”
“Songs Kids Really Love to Sing: 17 Playtime Songs”

BLUE/DVD

“Brothers in Arms: The Making of a Platoon”
“Christopher Robin”
“Crazy Rich Asians”
“First Man (BD/DVD Combo)”
“The Hate U Give”
“Hereditary (BD/DVD Combo)”
“Isle of Dogs”
“Peter Rabbit”
“Poldark: The Complete Third Season
“A Star is Born”
“Trolls Holiday”
“Victoria: The Complete Second Season”

BOARD BOOK

“Good Night, Gorilla” by Peggy Rathmann
“Look Look!” by Peter Linenthal

PICTURE BOOK

“Because” by Mo Willems
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
“Girl Running Bobbi Gibbs and the Boston Marathon” by Annette Bay Pimentel
“Iggy Peck, Architect” by Andrea Bewaty
“Julian is a Mermaid” by Jessica Love
“Potato Pants!” by Laurie Keller
“The Tall Man and the Small Mouse” by Mara Bergman
“We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga” by Traci Sorell
“What If…? Then We…: Short, Very Short, Shorter-than-Ever Possibilities” by Rebecca Kai Dotlich
“Yes I Can! A Girl and Her Wheelchair” by Kendra J. Barrett, Jacqueline B. Toner and Claire A. B. Freeland“

JUVENILE AUDIO

“The Unicorn Rescue Society Books 1-2: The Creature of the Pines: The Basque Dragon” by authors Adam Gidwitz and Jesse Casey, read by January Lavoy. On his first field trip with his new school, Elliot discovers a magical Jersey Devil with the power of invisibility. Terrifying Professor Fauna recruits Elliot and his new friend Uchenna for a secret society devoted to the protection of mythical creatures. After rescuing the Jersey devil, the three travel to the Basque Country to aid a kidnapped dragon. LaVoy shines at creating distinct voices for the motley cast while maintaining a clear third-person narrator’s voice for the portions between speaking parts. Elliot is often nervous, and LaVoy conveys the boy’s prudence and fears. For audacious Uchenna, she speaks with verve and bold energy to suit; Uchenna’s songs and made-up rhymes sparkle with humor. The banter between timid Elliot and brave Uchenna is buoyantly entertaining. The bizarre Professor Fauna’s Peruvian accent is a madcap delight punctuated with occasional Spanish phrases. The villainous Schmoke brothers ooze with cartoon evil as they discuss using magical creatures’ powers for personal profit. Historical details of the mythical creatures’ habitats and a message of conservation add scientific and cultural richness to the society’s tales. These first two books in the new series offer cryptid lovers smart, gripping adventures, and LaVoy’s wonderful narration elevates the already appealing package.” — Amanda Blau. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13” by Helaine Becker — “A picture-book biography of a humble genius who excelled in a career once out of reach for most African-Americans. An excellent biography that will inspire young readers, especially girls, to do what they love.”–Kirkus, starred review

“Mallko and Dad” by Gusti — “…”At first I did not accept him,” Gusti candidly admits, but time will change that, and it’s soon obvious that he has come to love his son, whom he now calls “the greatest.” This unusual book offers a glimpse of their quotidian life together, along with the boy’s mother and older brother, who loves his little brother unconditionally. In form, the book resembles a scrapbook with its text often hand-lettered and filled with the artist’s naive illustrations, sketches, and the occasional small photograph showing Mallko playing, bathing, drawing, eating (or refusing) breakfast–doing, in short, all of the daily things children do….. the book’s implicit theme is a universal one: the power and importance of love.” Michael Cart. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“Standing Against Hate: How Black Women in the Army Helped Change the Course of WWII” by Mary Cronk Farrell — “Farrell brings in the voices of the women, which provides clarity and understanding of what they experienced. She also highlights the role of black newspapers in keeping the community informed about the difficulties they often faced. The text is richly supported with archival photographs. The importance of this story is amplified by the inspiring foreword by Maj. Gen. Marcia M. Anderson, Army (Ret.), who makes a direct link between the determined struggles of those described and the achievements of African American women in today’s U.S. military. The stories in this valuable volume are well worth knowing.” — (Kirkus Reviews)

JUVENILE FICTION

“Genesis Begins Again” by Alicia D. WIlliams — “With a name like Genesis, it’s hard to be the ‘new girl’ at school and remain unnoticed in a suburban classroom, especially if you are self-conscious about how you look. Teenaged Genesis struggles to accept both her skin color and her place in her complicated family. Alicia D. Williams skillfully develops a character who—with the help of friends, teachers, and some awesome bluesy music—learns to love herself and her family as she realizes that black is indeed beautiful. I really loved this debut novel.” — (Sharon M. Draper, author of the New York Times bestseller Out of My Mind)

“The Light Jar” by Lisa Thompson — “Thompson’s eerie story is tense and threaded with mystery, and readers will recognize that Nate’s fears are legitimate ones born of an unsafe, fractured home. Thompson adeptly draws the storylines into a cohesive whole that rewards readers with a satisfyingly hard-won resolution.” — Booklist

“The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise” by Dan Gemeinhart — “Every mile of the road trip inexorably brings Coyote closer to confronting her past, and its inevitable sadness, but Gemeinhart avoids any sense of mawkishness. He tempers Coyote’s grief with her triumphant growth from a girl whose sole purpose is keeping her father on an even keel to one who realizes that she alone must find, and even fight for, her own happiness.” ―Horn Book

“Secret in Stone (The Unicorn Quest) by Kamilla Benko — “Claire and Sophie’s traverse across the magical world of Arden continues in this exciting continuation of The Unicorn Quest series. Beginning right where book one left off, this sequel begins as the girls arrive at Stonehaven, the Gemmer (stone magic-wielders) guild’s school-citadel, hoping to get help. Instead, however, they learn that war is more of a looming reality than they thought. …With themes of patterns and history repeating itself, Benko’s novel uses foreshadowing to set the stage for a huge reveal. Everything the sisters thought was impossible has been turned on its head, and they must rely on each other more than ever before….” — Kristina Pino. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“The Storm Keeper’s Island” by Catherine Doyle — “Doyle infuses every aspect of the novel with the richness of Irish folklore and culture: readers will be captivated by descriptions of the Island’s beauty and magical history . . . [a] modern yet timeless fantasy.” ―School Library Journal, starred review

“Turbo Racers: Trailblazer” by Austin Aslan — “Intense, impeccably paced, bonkers-awesome international race sequences provide clarity without sacrificing tension or becoming repetitive… With flash, spectacle, and tough character choices, an all-around, full-throttle read.” — (Kirkus Reviews)

JUVENILE NON FICTION

“The Adventures of Super Diaper Baby: The First Epic Novel by George Beard and Harold Hutchins “ by Dav Pilkey — “… Harold and George are caught in the act of skateboarding over ketchup packets in the gym and ordered by Principal Krupp to write an essay on good citizenship. After strict instructions against turning in another ‘Captain Underpants’ comic book, the boys decide to create a new superhero. When super power juice is sucked out of Captain Underpants by the evil Deputy Dangerous, it appears that all is lost. However, the potent liquid is ingested by a newborn baby and ‘Super Diaper Baby’ is born. In a plot to recapture the juice from the infant, Deputy Dangerous inadvertently becomes ‘Deputy Doo-Doo’ when he is turned into a giant ‘poop’ by his own invention. Where do the heroes take him? ‘Why Uranus, of course!’ Puns, jokes about bodily functions, and ludicrous misspellings will keep children who enjoy this level of comedy suitably entertained. (‘What’s the difference between boogers and broccoli? Kids won’t eat broccoli.’) ” — Piper L. Nyman, Fairfield/Suisun Community Library, . CAHNERS PUBLISHING, c2002.

“A Child Through Time: The Book of Children’s History” by Phil Wilkinson — “Publisher Annotation: An original look at history that profiles 30 children from different eras so that children of today can discover the lives of the cave people, Romans, Vikings, and beyond through the eyes of someone their own age.”

“A Song for Gwendolyn Brooks” by Alice Faye Duncan — “In her smoke-filled neighborhood in Chicago’s South Side, eight-year-old Gwendolyn Brooks wonders if the pink flowers outside her home can grow without sunlight. The flower metaphor continues in this picture-book biography of the award-winning poet. Duncan’s own blues-style free verse recounts young Gwendolyn beginning to write snappy rhymes in dime-store journals. Even as a teacher accuses her of plagiarism and she doubts herself, her parents believe in her gift for poetry. When Gwendolyn gains confidence, she studies influential poets, ‘paints poems with paintbrush words,’ and eventually becomes the first black American to win the Pulitzer Prize. …Samples of Brooks’ poems throughout give children a true sense of the poet’s rhythm and appeal, while an author’s note provides more details about her life.” —Booklist

“To the Moon and Back: My Apollo 11 Adventure” by Buzz Aldrin — “… Aldrin relates his experiences during the Apollo 11 mission in this fact-filled pop-up. The first pop-up spread is among the most impressive, and readers will certainly be thrilled when a fully suited astronaut and cone-shaped vehicle float above the page and a large photo of Earth. Various text blocks reveal that this is a scene from Aldrin’s Gemini 12 space flight, which helped prepare him for his journey to the moon. The next spread offers information on the Apollo missions and how they helped fine-tune the Saturn V rocket–exploding from the page!–that would launch Aldrin, Neil Armstrong, and Mike Collins into space. The book goes on to detail the mechanics and feeling of rocketing into space, orbiting, and, of course, landing on the moon and returning to Earth. Aldrin’s expertise and firsthand experience make for an exciting and fascinating read. Mini pop-ups, lift-the-flaps, and pull tabs (revealing facts about the Space Race and reflections from Aldrin’s family) add context and extra interactive appeal to this out-of-this-world book.” — Julia Smith. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

YOUNG ADULT

“Insurgent” by Veronica Roth — “Insurgent explores several critical themes, including the importance of family and the crippling power of grief at its loss. A very good read.” (School Library Journal)

“The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo — “The force and intensity behind her words practically pushes them off the page, resulting in a verse novel that is felt as much as it is heard. This is a book from the heart, and for the heart.” — (New York Times Book Review)

“The Scorpio Races” by Maggie Stiefvater — “A book with cross-appeal to lovers of fantasy, horse stories, romance, and action-adventure, this seems to have a shot at being a YA blockbuster.”
–Booklist, Starred Review

“A Torch Against the Night” by Sabaa Tahir — “Tahir proves to be a master of suspense and a canny practitioner of the cliffhanger, riveting readers’ attention throughout.…[An] action-packed, breathlessly paced story.” —Booklist, starred review

ADULT FICTION

“The Christmas Key” by Lori Wilde — “…An absolute crowd-pleaser… The magnetism between Naomi and Mark is breathtaking and real, the magic of Christmas enhances their romance. Readers will cheer for the wounded warrior who may have found a place to call home.” –(Publishers Weekly (starred review))

“Chuckerman Makes a Movie” by Francie Arenson Dickman — “Thoughtfully narrated and with a split-screen storyline, Chuckerman Makes A Movie is a unique coming of age tale told through the lens of a film-writing class. Quick-paced, witty, and well-executed, Francie Arenson Dickman’s debut novel weaves together a series of flawed and honest relationships, both past and present, with the kind of mastery one would expect from a seasoned best-selling author.”
— Randi Olin and Lauren Apfel, executive editors of Motherwell Magazine

“The Dream Daughter” by Diane Chamberlain — “Chamberlain stretches her sense of familial relationships and toe-curling suspense in new directions, weaving in elements of trust, history, and time as she explores the things we do for love. With a little tension and a lot of heart, The Dream Daughter will delight Chamberlain’s fans and hook new readers.” ―Booklist

“The Girl They Left Behind” by Roxanne Veletzos — “[The Girl They Left Behind], which Veletzos based on her mother’s life, is worth reading for its Romanian setting, and questions regarding Natalia’s real parents and whether she will ever be reunited with them add an element of suspense.” —  Booklist 

“In His Father’s Footsteps” by Danielle Steel — “Moving from the ashes of postwar Europe to the Lower East Side of New York, to wealth, success, and unlimited luxury, In His Father’s Footsteps is a stirring tale of three generations of strong, courageous, and loving people who pay their dues to achieve their goals.”  – inside front cover

“Jeeves and King of Clubs” by Ben Schott — “Impressive… Schott comes up with Wodehouse caliber metaphors and otherwise expertly channels the master’s voice… an essential volume for Wodehouse fans, rounded out with endnotes full of fun historical and literary facts.”―Publishers Weekly

“Juno’s Swans” by Tamsen Wolff — “A riveting account of first love…Wolff’s crushing novel is ultimately a very personal story, vividly rendered in a montage of memories.” — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

“The Kinship of Secrets” by Eugenia Kim — “This unforgettable novel is about war, immigration, family bonds, resentment, anger, and love. It is book full of inspirational characters, from the loving uncle to the girls’ mother, Najin, the best secret keeper of them all. It is a story about strong women, their hardships, sacrifices and ability to love even though it may mean keeping secrets.”—The Missourian

“Laurentian Divide” by  Sarah Stonich — “Thanks to Stonich’s keen depictions, this is a small town peopled with actual people: diverse individuals united by a common experience of place. Laurentian Dividetransports attention to a ‘scrap of near-nowhere’ because ‘life isn’t something that happens to you—how you choose to react to what happens is life.”  — Foreword Review

“Maddaddam” by Margaret Atwood — ““This unsentimental narrative exposes the heart of human creativity as well as our self-destructive darkness. . . . MaddAddam is fueled with edgy humor, sardonic twists, hilarious coincidences.” —The Boston Globe

“The Next Person You Meet in Heaven” by Mitch Albom — “…Life has not been without its struggles for Annie, who was left with both a disability and an overly protective mother after the accident at Ruby Pier Amusement Park. However, things appear to be on the upswing as she reunites with and marries Paolo, her childhood sweetheart. Of course, there are no simplistic, happily-ever-after endings in the Albom universe, and Annie and Paolo prove there are no exceptions to that rule. After a horrific accident on her wedding day, Annie is whisked up to heaven, where she not only meets up with Eddie but also four others whose lives she touched and impacted in meaningful ways. As Annie learns her lessons about the meaning and value of both life and death, Albom wraps up this heartfelt fable with a totally unexpected twist.” — Margaret Flanagan. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“Night of Miracles” by Elizabeth Berg — “The thing about an Elizabeth Berg novel is, it’ll always make you feel hopeful. True to form, Night of Miracles is wise and funny, not shying away from life’s troubles but spotlighting the shining small miracles and pleasures of ordinary days. And, of course, there are delicious cakes.” — Jenna Blum, New York Times bestselling author of Those Who Save Us

“No Traveller Returns” by Louis L’Amour and Beau L’Amour — “Although L’Amour’s name will be forever linked with the American West, fans should welcome the opportunity to read some of his early work. . . . The insight into each character is typical of everything L’Amour ever wrote.” —Booklist

“Odessa, Odessa: A Novel” by Barbara Artson — “The vivid events and rich details of the intricate story are compelling and important―immigrants like the Kolopskys helped make America into the land readers recognize today (Israel, too). Readers should understand more of their world at the end of this engrossing novel than they did when they began it . . .A complex but rewarding epic of family ties, fading memories, and immigrants who―through hard work and
luck―better the lives of their progeny.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Sketchkasy” by Mattilda Berstein Sycamore — “If there’s any justice in this world,Sketchtasy will become the definitive novel of life in Boston … It slyly trades 1990s nostalgia for a queer narrative that is mesmerizing and heartbreaking all at once.” —The Millions

“The Travelling Cat Chronicles” by Hiro Arikawa — “This touching novel of a brave cat and his gentle, wise human will resonate with lovers of animal tales, quiet stories of friendship, and travelogues alike.” —Publishers Weekly

“One in a Million” by Lindsey Kelk — “Her fiction is dry, warm, stuffed with fully-realized female characters, and very, very funny…[One In A Million] is classic Kelk, by which I mean a balm on my troubled soul, because two years in Trump’s America will make you yearn for that.” — Marie Claire

“Oryx and Crake” by Margaret Atwood — “Her shuddering post-apocalyptic vision of the world . . . summons up echoes of George Orwell, Anthony Burgess and Aldous Huxley. . . . Oryx and Crake [is] in the forefront of visionary fiction.” — The Seattle Times

“The Overstory” by Richard Power — “The Overstory, a novel about trees and people who understand them, is the eco-epic of the year and perhaps the decade. Unlike the Lorax, who spoke for the trees, Richard Powers prefers to let them do their own talking.” – Leanne Shapton, judge for the Man Booker Prize

“Sea of Greed” by Clive Cussler and Graham Brown — “The villain is diabolical, our heroes seem to have no way to win, and the action is relentless. In other words, the story is classic Cussler. The thought of the world running out of oil is terrifying, and that along with the wonderful cast of characters makes this one of the better entries in the NUMA Files series.”– Associated Press

“Sketchtasy” by Matilda Bernstein Sycamore — “”If there’s any justice in this world,Sketchtasy will become the definitive novel of life in Boston … It slyly trades 1990s nostalgia for a queer narrative that is mesmerizing and heartbreaking all at once.” —The Millions

“The Travelling Cat Chronicles” by Hiro Arikawa — “This touching novel of a brave cat and his gentle, wise human will resonate with lovers of animal tales, quiet stories of friendship, and travelogues alike.”—Publishers Weekly 

“You Were Always Mine” by Nicole Baart — “Mothers everywhere will recognize and celebrate the fierce, imperfect strength of Jessica Chamberlain as she tries to parent her sons—one birthed and one adopted—in the wake of her estranged husband’s death. A startlingly authentic mix of suspense, grief, and family drama, You Were Always Mine reconstructs the pieces of a shattered life to reveal the darkness that destroyed it. You will never look at adoption the same way again.” — Mindy Mejia, author of Everything You Want Me To Be and Leave No Trace

“We Can Save Us All” by Adam Nemett — “Nemett’s recipe for disaster is sound―a dash of Pynchon, a hint of Neal Stephenson, and a nihilistic undertone that belies a semihopeful denouement… a confident, visceral debut that’s worth the ride.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Winter in Paradise” by Elin Hilderbrand — Irene Steele’s husband, Russ, travels too much for work, but she is happy in their newly restored Iowa City Victorian house. Then, on New Year’s Day, she gets a call that Russ has been killed in a helicopter crash in the U.S. Virgin Islands–and she has no idea what he was doing there. Their sons, Cash and Baker, each have reasons to escape their lives for awhile, so they join her to mourn and look for answers. What they find when they get to the island is a multimillion-dollar mansion and news of a young woman, Rosie Small, who also died in the crash. Ayers Wilson was Rosie’s best friend, so she commits to staying put for Rosie’s daughter, Maia, and Maia’s widowered stepgrandfather, boat captain Huck. ..” — Susan Maguire. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“The Year of the Flood” by Margaret Atwood — “Atwood spins the most arresting alternate mythologies to our hell-bent world. . . . The Year of the Flood is a slap-happy romp through the end times. Stuffed with cornball hymns, genetic mutations worth of Thomas Pynchon and a pharmaceutical company run amok, it reads like dystopia verging on satire. She may be imagining a world in flames, but she’s doing it with a dark cackle.” — The Los Angeles Times

“You Were Always Mine” by Nicole Baart — “Mothers everywhere will recognize and celebrate the fierce, imperfect strength of Jessica Chamberlain as she tries to parent her sons—one birthed and one adopted—in the wake of her estranged husband’s death. A startlingly authentic mix of suspense, grief, and family drama, You Were Always Mine reconstructs the pieces of a shattered life to reveal the darkness that destroyed it. You will never look at adoption the same way again.”  — Mindy Mejia, author of Everything You Want Me To Be and Leave No Trace

BIOGRAPHY

“Becoming” by Michele Obama — “The former first lady looks back on an unlikely rise to the top while navigating issues of race and gender in this warmhearted memoir. Obama’s narrative is the story of an African-American striver, born to a working-class family in a Chicago ghetto, who got Princeton and Harvard degrees and prominent jobs in law and public relations, attended at every step by the nagging question, “Am I good enough?” (“Yes I am,” she answers). It’s also about her struggle to keep husband Barack’s high-powered political career from subsuming her identity and the placid family life she preferred to the electoral frenzy–she disavows any desire for public office herself–while she weathered misgivings over work-life balance and marital strains that required couples’ counseling. Becoming the first lady ratchets up the pressure as Obama endures the Secret Service security bubble, has every public utterance and outfit attacked by opponents, gets pilloried as a closet radical, and soldiers on with healthy-food initiatives. Obama surveys most of this with calm good humor–“infuriating” Republican obstructionism and Donald Trump’s “misogyny” draw her ire–while painting an admiring, sometimes romantic portrait of Barack and evoking pathos over her parents’ sacrifices for their children. There are no dramatic revelations and not much overt politics here, but fans of the Obamas will find an interesting, inspiring saga of quiet social revolutions.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“C.S. Lewis A Life: Eccentric Genius, Reluctant Prophet” by Alister McGrath — “McGrath does this so limpidly, so intelligently, and so sympathetically that this biography is the one Lewis’ admirers–especially those who, like him, believe that books are to be read and enjoyed–should prefer to all others.”  —Booklist

ADULT MYSTERY

“Beyond Budapest” by J D Mallinson — “Leonard Parks is an agent of the U.K. Inland Revenue who goes missing while conducting a series of interviews with wealthy British expatriates living in Europe. Are these individuals merely concerned with evading taxes, or do they more sinister backgrounds and motives? Inspector George Mason, ably assisted by Detective Sergeant Alison Aubrey, is assigned by Scotland Yard to help discover what happened to the tax official. Their investigations take them to several European cities, where they eventually become involved with members of a secret society who are determined to frustrate their efforts. Will the two detectives succeed in outwitting the opposition, to determine the curious fate of Leonard Parks? Will they find him alive, or dead?” — back cover

“A Christmas Revelation” by Anne Perry — “Perry’s Victorian-era holiday mysteries [are] an annual treat.” — The Wall Street Journal

“Cold Earth” by Ann Cleeves — “Plenty of suspects on a remote Scottish island mixed with the high quality of Cleeves’s prose make this a solidly plotted whodunit for procedural and traditional mystery readers.” — Library Journal

“Holy Ghost” by John Sandford —  “… Virgil Flowers …, Wardell Holland, the maverick mayor of Wheatfield (pop. 650), and his 17-year-old sidekick, John Jacob Skinner, decide the town needs an economic boost, so they contrive for the Virgin Mary to appear at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, with one of Skinner’s many sexual conquests, Jennie Fischer, in the Mary role. The Marian Apparition succeeds in bringing flocks of tourists to Wheatfield. Then sniper-like shootings that wound two citizens threaten the bonanza. Flowers’s subsequent investigation turns up suspects ranging from a few would-be Nazis to a farmer/gun range owner and Jennie’s porn-loving boyfriend. When the shootings turn deadly, Flowers gets help, which he badly needs as he comes to realize that he must outwit a clever killer who proves one of his maxims: “If it’s criminal, it’s either stupid or crazy.” Sandford’s trademark sly humor shines throughout.” — Agent: Esther Newberg, ICM.  PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“Kingdom of the Blind” by Louise Penny — “Insightful, well-plotted… Penny offers intriguing commentary on the willful blindness that can keep people from acknowledging the secrets and lies in their own lives. Penny wraps up some continuing story lines and sends recurring characters in surprising directions.” — Publishers Weekly

“Leverage in Death” by J.D. Robb — “Robb again remixes and remasters all the addictively readable ingredients her readers have come to crave, including a tough-as-nails protagonist who takes guff from no one, a plethora of engaging secondary characters who each play their roles to perfection, a generous dash of hot-as-sin sex, and a fine-tuned, tautly paced plot that relentlessly ticks along to the book’s satisfying conclusion.” —  Booklist 

“Long Road to Mercy” by David Baldacci — “If you’re wondering why David Baldacci is considered the best, look no further than LONG ROAD TO MERCY. In FBI Agent Atlee Pine, he has envisioned a new kind of heroine, forged in the fire of trauma and driven by a rare kind of strength. It should come as no shock that a thriller writer for the ages has created a character for the ages!” — Gregg Hurwitz, New York Times bestselling author

“Look Alive Twenty-Five” by Janet Evanovich –” When three consecutive managers from a famous deli go missing, leaving no clues behind but a single shoe each, latest manager Stephanie Plum navigates Lula’s theories about alien abductions to avoid becoming the next victim.” — Atlas Publishing

“Of Blood and Bone” by Nora Roberts — “[Of Blood and Bone] can be read on its own and will appeal to fans of fast-paced dystopian tales with a strong heroine.” — Publishers Weekly 

“Past Tense: A Jack Reacher Novel” by Lee Child — “… the peripatetic Reacher reaches a fork in a road in rural New Hampshire; he chooses the path heading to Laconia, “his late father’s place of birth.” At the same time, just 30 miles away, a young Canadian couple on their way south have car trouble and stop at a small motel, finding they’re apparently its only guests. Reacher uncovers few traces of his father’s existence, other than a 75-year-old assault case in which Stan Reacher is named. But he does stir up a world of trouble when he steps in to help a woman under attack and gives her assailant–the son of a well-connected underworld figure–a humiliating beating. While Reacher is dealing with a revenge posse, the Canadian couple discover just how strange their motel is. Child neatly interweaves multiple narratives, ratchets up the suspense (the reveal of the motel plot is delicious), and delivers a powerful, satisfying denouement. Fans will enjoy learning more of this enduring character’s roots, and Child’s spare prose continues to set a very high bar.” — Agent: Darley Anderson, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“The Reckoning” by John Grisham — ““In this saga of love and war, John Grisham has given us a sprawling and engrossing story about a southern family, a global conflict, and the kinds of secrets that can shape all of us.  From the courtrooms and jails of rural Mississippi to the war-torn Pacific, Grisham spins a tale that is at once entertaining and illuminating.”
— Jon Meacham, New York Times bestselling author of The Soul of America

ADULT NON-FICTION

“Brief Answers to the Big Questions” by Stephen Hawking — ““It’s a book every thinking person worried about humanity’s future should read. . . . Hawking’s parting gift to humanity.” — NPR

“Leadership in Turbulent Times” by Doris Kearns Goodwin — “Published at a turbulent time, her book is a rich source of information and inspiration. . . . Most important, Goodwin reminds us that a democracy leadership is a two-way street, a mirror in which people, for better and worse, see their collective reflection.” — Minneapolis Star Tribune

“The Library Book” by Susan Orlean — “… starts with the tale of the 1986 fire that damaged or destroyed 700,000 books in the Los Angeles Central Library. But The Library Book pans out quickly to the fractious, eccentric history of the institution and then, almost inevitably, a reflection on the past, present, and future of libraries in America. Orlean follows the narrative in all directions, juxtaposing the hunt for the library arsonist—possibly a frustrated actor—with a philosophical treatise on why and how libraries became the closest thing many of us experience to a town hall.”  — Hillary Kelly, New York Magazine

“LikeWar: The Weaponization of Social Media” by P.W. Singer and Emerson T. Brooking — “Through a series of vivid vignettes, LikeWar shows how the internet has become a new battlefield in the 21st century, in ways that blur the line between war and peace and make each of us a potential target of postmodern conflict.” — Francis Fukuyama, author of The End of History, Director of the Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law at Stanford University

“On Desperate Ground: The Marines at the Reservoir, the Korean War’s Greatest Battle” by Hampton Sides — “Superb…a masterpiece of thorough research, deft pacing and arresting detail…Sides shows how brave Marines — officers and grunts — innovated, organized and blasted their way out of the trap their fabulously famous boss had helped set. This war story — the fight to break out of a frozen hell near the Chosin Reservoir — has been told many times before. But Sides tells it exceedingly well, with fresh research, gritty scenes and cinematic sweep.” —Washington Post

“Presidents of War” by Michael Beschloss — “Beschloss offers a sweeping history of American presidents seeking and waging war. . . . He provides insight into the motivations of American leaders; presidents’ battles with other branches of government; their degree of respect for civil liberties; and the role of personality, emotion, and the general political climate as American commanders-in-chief executed the power of the country’s military forces. . . . Ample detail and enticing storytelling.” — Publishers Weekly

“Real-Life Rules! A Young Person’s Guide to Self-Discovery, Big Ideas, and Healthy Habits” by Marian Bruehl — “… This book offers insights, practical advice, and concrete activities that will serve children well as they begin to find their way independently in the world, while at the same time helping parents to provide them with scaffolding to be safe, happy, and successful. …, Real-Life Rules brings the whole family to the table, offering opportunities to explore, discuss, and experience both the concrete and abstract concepts that are critical for living a meaningful, thoughtful life.” — ONIX annotations

“Vietnam: An Epic History, 1945-1975” by Max Hastings — “Vietnam by Max Hastings is masterful account of the war…Hastings’ narrative, along with Ken Burns’ masterful series on PBS, offers a well-balanced account of a war that ended more than four decades ago. The author weaves anecdotal and first-person accounts from both sides into the overall history to produce a compelling account that veterans of the war, those who felt its impact at home and readers born decades after the fighting ended will find hard to put down.” (Associated Press)

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“The Mystery of Three Quarters: The New Hercule Poirot Mystery” by Sophie Hannah — “Another ingeniously deceptive puzzle…. The gratifying reveal is a neat variation on one of Christie’s own solutions and demonstrates Hannah’s facility at combining her own plotting gifts with another author’s creation.”  — Publishers Weekly

“Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg” by Irin Carmon & Shana Knizhnik – “In this well-researched celebration of her life and career, authors Carmon and Knizhnik compile interviews, anecdotes, and even Ginsburg’s annotated dissents to present an intimate and sometimes amusingly irreverent profile of this acclaimed jurist, champion of battles to ensure gender equality and civil rights. In her narration, Arndt spins out the account of RBG’s personal and professional lives, capturing her character as a fiercely intelligent and generous woman on and off the Court. Anecdotes offer humor, and even in the sometimes lengthy dissents, Arndt’s reading provides glimpses into Ginsburg’s personality and intellect. So personable is the portrayal of Ginsburg–…–that even those who disagree with her positions may be persuaded to a new respect.” —  Saricks, Joyce.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2016.

“The Soul of America: The Battle for our Better Angels” by Jon Meacham — “This engrossing, edifying, many-voiced chronicle, subtly propelled by concern over the troubled Trump administration, calls on readers to defend democracy, decency, and the common good. Best-selling Meacham’s topic couldn’t be more urgent.” — Booklist (starred review)

“A Study in Treason” by Leonard Goldberg — “Fans of Sherlock Holmes are in for a treat with A Study in Treason: A Daughter of Sherlock Holmes Mystery by Leonard Goldberg. The mystery tests the mind and forensic skills of the private eye’s heir in the new novel…”  — National Examiner

LARGE PRINT

“Red War: a Mitch Rapp Novel” by Vince Flynn — When Russian president Maxim Krupin discovers that he has inoperable brain cancer, he’s determined to cling to power. His first task is to kill or imprison any of his countrymen who can threaten him. Soon, though, his illness becomes serious enough to require a more dramatic diversion—war with the West. Upon learning of Krupin’s condition, CIA director Irene Kennedy understands that the US is facing an opponent who has nothing to lose. The only way to avoid a confrontation that could leave millions dead is to send Mitch Rapp to Russia under impossibly dangerous orders. With the Kremlin’s entire security apparatus hunting him, he must find and kill a man many have deemed the most powerful in the world. Success means averting a war that could consume all of Europe. But if his mission is discovered, Rapp will plunge Russia and America into a conflict that neither will survive. ” — Center Point large print edition series

“Every Breath” by Nichols Sparks — “..At thirty-six, she’s been dating her boyfriend, an orthopedic surgeon, for six years. With no wedding plans in sight, and her father recently diagnosed with ALS, she decides to use a week at her family’s cottage in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, to ready the house for sale and mull over some difficult decisions about her future. Tru Walls has never visited North Carolina but is summoned to Sunset Beach by a letter from a man claiming to be his father. A safari guide, born and raised in Zimbabwe, Tru hopes to unravel some of the mysteries surrounding his mother’s early life and recapture memories lost with her death. When the two strangers cross paths, their connection is as electric as it is unfathomable . . . but in the immersive days that follow, their feelings for each other will give way to choices that pit family duty against personal happiness in devastating ways.” — Publisher’s Annotation

MUSIC

“Disney Junior: Dance Party: The Album”
“Renee Fleming: Broadway”

BLUE/DVD

“Avengers: Infinity War”
“A Charlie Brown Christmas”
“Death of a Nation”
“Hotel Transylvania 3”
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas”
“Incredibles 2”
“Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom”
“Mountain: A Breathtaking Voyage Into the Extreme”
“Solo: Star Wars”
“This is Us: The Complete Second Season”
“Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”

BOARD BOOK

“A Bubble” by Genevieve Castree
“Chomp Goes the Alligator” by Matthew Van Fleet
“Where’s Spot” by Eric Hill

KIT – Book + CD

“The Carnival of the Animals” by Jack Prelutsky
“A Frog Thing” by Eric Drachman
“Over the Rainbow” by Eric Puybaret and Judy Collins
“Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf With a Fully-Orchestrated and Narrated CD” by Janet Schulman

PICTURE BOOK

“Angus All Aglow” by Heather Smith
“Anne Arrives” by Kallie George
“Carnival of the Animals” by Jack Pretulsky
“Construction Site on Christmas Night” by Sherri Duskey Rinker
“Dad’s Camera” by Ross Watkins
“A Day in the Life  of Marlon Bundo” by Marlon Bundo
“Eduardo Guadardo, Elite Sheep” by Anthony Pearson
“The Eleventh Hour” by Jacques Goldstyn
“Eliza: The Story of Elizabeth Schulyer Hamilton” by Margaret McNamara
“The Epic Adventures of Huggie & Stick” by Drew Daywalt
“Found” by Jeff Newman
“Franklin and Luna Go to the Moon” by Jen Campbell
“Frog Thing” by Eric Drachman
“How to Feed Your Parents” by Ryan Miller
“I Hate My Cats (A Love Story)” by Davide Dali
“Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” by Jill Twiss
“Little Brothers & Little Sisters” by Monica Arnaldo
“Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop: The Sanitation Strike of 1968” by Alice Faye Duncan
“Outside my Window” by Linda Ashman
“Over the Rainbow” by Judy Collins
“Phone Call  With a Fish” by Sivia Vecchini
“Stop That Yawn” by Caron Levis
“Up the Mountain Path” by Marianne Dubuc
“We Are Grateful: Otsalheliga” by Traci Sorell
“The Wall in the Middle of the Book” by Jon Agee
“We Don’t Eat Our Classmates” by Ryan T. Higgins
“A Web” by Isabelle SImler

JUVENILE AUDIO

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“The True Tale of a Giantess: The Story of Anna Swan” by Anne Renaud — “Anna Swan was born in Nova Scotia at a whopping 13 pounds, and her remarkable size only grew more astonishing. She towered above other children, and by age 12, over her parents as well, finally leveling off at just under eight feet tall….Renaud frequently compares Anna’s height with her surroundings–Queen Anne’s lace, hay bales, a rain barrel–which may not be ready references for city kids but bring Anna’s world to life. Eventually, she joined P. T. Barnum’s Gallery of Wonders in New York City, where she performed with others who didn’t quite fit into the conventional world, including tiny Minnie Warren, Lavinia Warren’s sister. Anna narrates her own story in this swift biography, accessibly relaying the many ups and downs of her life, with additional information appended.” —  Julia Smith.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

JUVENILE FICTION

“13 Gifts A Wish Novel” by Wendy Mass — “Mass keeps the plot jumping like a fireworks display; there’s one surprise spark after another, all coming together at the end for a breathtaking finale.” –School Library Journal, starred review

“24 Hours in Nowhere” by Dusti Bowling — “Nowhere, Arizona, is notorious for being the least livable town in the U.S., and it certainly feels that way for 13-year-old Gus. Bullied by a local braggart and stuck living with his grandmother, Gus dreams of escape, namely by leaving for college some day. But in the time between now and then, to repay the girl who saved his butt, he goes searching for the gold that’s supposedly buried deep in Dead Frenchman Mine. The ragtag band of misfits that join him calls to mind the gang from The Goonies, and their underground escapades vacillate among genuinely creepy, hilarious, and thrilling. From describing the sizzling heat to the sticky bat guano in the cave, Bowling tickles all of the senses with her evocative Southwest setting. . . .” —  Booklist

“Benefits of Being an Octopus” by Ann Braden — “This engrossing debut novel…takes the reader on her journey from the dire side of the class divide to a life of cautious hope as she learns the world is big enough for choices, actions, and results.” — Booklist

“Charlie Hernandez & The League of Shadows” by Ryan Calejo — “Filled with action with fast-paced chapters, Calejo’s novel is sure to draw in readers and introduce them to the magic, beauty, and history of Hispanic myths and legends (many of which are elaborated on further in a glossary for those unfamiliar with the stories). This is a perfect pick for kids who love Rick Riordan’s many series, particularly for those eager for mythologies beyond Greek and Roman stories.” –(Booklist *STARRED REVIEW*)

“Days of the Dead” by Kersten Hamilton — “Ancient Irish myths and legends mix and mingle with the modern world in this fast-paced fantasy. . . . Hamilton has created characters who are quirky and complex. Their stories are tightly woven together and riveting, and readers will look forward to the next installment in the series.” — School Library Journal, starred review

“The Den of Forever Forest” by Kathryn Lasky — “Lasky’s brilliant imagery of the fantasy ice world and her believably strong, determined bears won’t disappoint readers. The final paragraph brings sighs and silence as the bears contemplate the completion of their quest in the series’ next book.” — Booklist

“Dragonwatch” by Brandon Mull — “The Dragons are now hot to break out of their own long confinement, and a hidden talisman is all that can restore the mysteriously weakened magic barriers that have kept them in check… Fans of the series will welcome a new story arc stocked with familiar characters, settings and adventures.” — Kirkus

“Everlasting Nora” by Marie Miranda Cruz — “Nora’s story is a tribute to Filipino children, and readers of all backgrounds will find themselves immersed in the culture, learning bits of Tagalog and longing to savor the delicacies described throughout such as biko, champorado, and banana-que. Cruz’s touching debut breathes life, beauty and everlasting hope into a place where danger lurks and the dead rest.” ―Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“The Extraordinary Colors of Auden Dare” by Zillah Bethell — “Auden Dare was born with achromatopsia―he cannot see any color. If that wasn’t hard enough, he lives in a world in which water is a scarce resource. His father is away fighting in the Water Wars when he and his mother move to his late uncle Jonah’s cottage … Be prepared for some tears … as Auden learns the hard way what sacrifice for the greater good truly means.”– Booklist magazine

“The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone” by Jaclyn Moriarty — “At age 10, Bronte Mettlestone receives a telegram stating that her parents have been killed by pirates. She doesn’t remember them, however, having been raised by her loving Aunt Isabelle and the butler. In her parents’ will (bound by “faery cross-stitch”) is the stipulation that she travel alone and deliver gifts to her 10 aunts. If she fails, her hometown will be in trouble. Despite the danger of running into dark mages, she begins her quest, which reads like a string of dreams. While visiting Aunt Sue, Bronte is awarded the Elvish Medal for Bravery for rescuing a baby from the river. She then saves wrongly accused Aunt Emma (who’s been imprisoned for stealing a water sprite’s pepper grinder), rides dragons with Aunt Sophy, and the list goes on. … the back-to-back adventures make for a speedy plot that will keep readers turning the pages.” —  PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“The Guggenheim Mystery” by Robin Stevens — “Kate and Ted are visiting their cousin Salim, now in New York thanks to his mother’s new job as a curator at the Guggenheim Museum….they are called upon to become detectives, here because a painting has been stolen and Salim’s mother arrested. The book’s narrator is 12-year-old Ted, described last time out as having a brain that “runs on a different operating system” (seemingly autism spectrum disorder); yet it’s his ability to see patterns, indiscernible to most, that allows him, with Kate and Salim’s help, to identify the real perpetrator. …” — Ilene Cooper.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“In Your Shoes” by Donna Gephart — “A thoughtfully and sensitively written work of character-driven fiction that dramatically addresses two important subjects that deserve more widespread attention.”--Booklist, starred

“Inkling” by Kenneth Oppel — “This masterful novel is funny, sad, and profound all at once. Kenneth Oppel has created many unusual protagonists during his stellar career, but his inventiveness reaches a whole new level with Inkling, an inkblot that is fully and vividly alive.” —Quill and Quire, Starred

“The Last Present” by Wendy Mass — “A fresh twist on the familiar themes of middle-grade family and school dynamics.” — Booklist, starred review

“Lu” by Jason Reynolds — “It is an eventful summer for Lu, the co-captain of the Defenders track team, whose swagger is matched only by his speed. Not only does Lu discover that he is going to be a big brother but he is also preparing for the track championship and competing in a new event–the hurdles. As he soon learns, running hurdles is not just about getting over them, but also about how you perceive them. Lu comes to realize that everyone has hurdles–some are physical (Lu has albinism), some are emotional, some are created by others, and some are self-created. As preparations for the big meet continue, Lu learns a secret about his father that has the potential to upend their close relationship, and he also must face a nemesis from his past. Will Lu clear all his hurdles?…” — Monique Harris. THE HORN BOOK, c2018.

“Merci Suarez Changes Gears” by Meg Medina — “Medina writes about the joys of multigenerational home life (a staple of the Latinx community) with a touching, humorous authenticity. Merci’s relationship with Lolo is heartbreakingly beautiful and will particularly strike readers who can relate to the close, chaotic, and complicated bonds of live-in grandparents. Medina delivers another stellar and deeply moving story.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“My LIfe as a Diamond” by Jenny Manzer — “The plot and characters strike an ideal balance that will have wide appeal, introducing readers to themes of gender identity that avoids didacticism and sensationalism. My Life as a Diamond will appeal to readers interested in baseball, team-sports, and realistic fiction. Highly Recommended.” (CM Magazine 2018-10-01)

“No Fixed Address” by Susin Nielsen — “At almost 13, Felix is used to a little spontaneity in his life. He’s watched his mom, Astrid (he calls her Astrid–her idea), hop from job to job and guy to guy, and since Felix’s grandma died, they’ve moved a lot. When they get evicted and have to live in a van for a while, Felix believes Astrid when she says it’s temporary. Even if Astrid has trouble finding a job, Felix has a backup plan: his favorite game show is hosting a junior edition, and he’s actually freakishly good at trivia. He’s going to audition and win enough money so that he and Astrid will never have problems again. But living in a van–and keeping it a secret from his friends at school–is starting to take its toll on Felix. …. Though Felix’s wry observations keep things from getting too dark, this is also a straightforward look at the circumstances that can lead to homelessness. Clear-eyed and heartfelt.” — Maggie Reagan. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“Out of Left Field” by Ellen Klages — ““Heartwarming, fresh, and full of surprises. Readers of all ages will cheer for funny, feisty Katy Gordon as she chases her big-league dreams. Ellen Klages hits this one out of the park!”—Jennifer L. Holm, three-time Newbery Honor recipient

“Skylark and Wallcreeper” by Anne O’Brien Carelli –“… an engaging novel that alternates between WWII in rural France and 2012 in New York City. Lily is a brave, independent-minded tween tending to her elderly grandmother in a nursing home when the two become displaced amid intense flooding during Hurricane Sandy. Her grandmother Colette’s memory is spotty, and when a beloved Montblanc pen goes missing, Lily sets out to recover it in what becomes an illuminating journey into her grandmother’s past. As a child, Colette–aka Wallcreeper–disguised herself as a boy and aided the French Resistance. The two time lines make for a fast-paced read, with danger and suspense in both narrative arcs. The intense friendship forged by war and Lily’s own deep bond with her grandmother provide tender moments of connection. …” —  Jennifer Barnes. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“Wrath of the Dragon King (Dragonwatch)” by Brandon Mull — “Dragonwatch will intrigue young readers with a fondness for Tolkien’s Middle-earth. With dragons on the loose and key characters missing, there’s plenty of scope for sequels.” — Foreward Reviews

JUVENILE NON FICTION

“Check Please! #Hockey” — Ngozi Ukazu — “This is a warm story with an irresistible protagonist, a clever supporting cast, and lively and plentiful game and practice scenes… A fun and deeply satisfying read for teens.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Countdown: 2979 Days to the Moon” by Suzanne Slade — “Captivating free-verse narrative…vivid mixed-media illustrations that stun with photographic realism and varied perspectives…this well-researched title offers a stirring introduction to one of humankind’s most impressive undertakings.” — Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Dreamers” by Yuyi Morales —  “The magical art marries the succinct and powerful narrative in a resplendent celebration of literacy, language, and the transformative power of the picture book form . . . This excellent memoir encapsulates the fears, hopes, and dreams that come along with immigrating to a new place . . . A timely and much-needed selection.” — School Library Journal, Starred Review

“Fox Trot en masse” by Bill Amend — “FoxTrot En Masse , contains all the cartoons from Black Bart Says Draw and Eight Yards, Down and Out .” — ONIX Annotations

“National Parks of the USA” by Kate Siber — “…Familiar parks such as the Everglades, Grand Canyon, and Yosemite are here, but lesser known ones get equal treatment. Each region of the United States, from sea to shining sea, boasts a national park worthy of exploring. Fascinating snippets of information are interspersed–lobsters are ill tempered; wolverines can take down animals as big as elk. …” Sharon Verbeten, Brown County Library, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

“Something Rotten: A Fresh Look at Roadkill” by Heather L. Montgomery — “. . . [A]n extremely interesting treatise about roadkill and how it affects all our lives. . . . Montgomery inspires curiosity, asks excellent questions, and makes science and investigating roadkill fascinating to learn.” ―Starred review, School Library Connection

“The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Greece: A Handbook for Time Travelers” by Jonathan W. Stokes — “….takes readers on a time-traveling journey to ancient Greece, as narrated by the snarky “Time Corp CEO and Corporate Overlord” Finn Greenquill. Readers are welcomed to Athens and Sparta and informed about historical events and figures, including the Battles of Thermopylae and Salamis, Alexander the Great, and Greece’s golden age. Along the way, Stokes introduces Greek gods and provides historical fashion tips and other “Helpful Hints” on topics (“The only people who get to go to school are rich boys”). Bonet contributes light, good-humored visuals. Underlying the book’s tongue-in-cheek tone are insights into Greek history and mythology. ” —PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

YOUNG ADULT

” The 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives” by Dashka Slater — “Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people’s lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires.” ―Publishers Weekly starred review

“All the Stars Denied” by Guadalupe Garcia McCall — “Estrella is a feisty 15-year-old living with her parents on a ranch in southern Texas. It’s 1931, and the Great Depression is in full swing. Her town is severely divided ethnically, and families of Mexican descent, though American citizens, are being rounded up and repatriated across the border. Following a protest that Estrella organizes, her home is burned, and she, her toddler brother, and mother are separated from her father while being transported to Mexico. They are thrown onto a train, forced into an open-air livestock corral for days with hundreds of others in harsh winter weather, and then taken to Mexico City, where survival is a constant challenge. However, there is always hope. Readers interested in history and current events will recognize striking similarities between events in this companion to Shame the Stars (2016) and the separation of refugee children from their parents today. Through Estrella’s eloquent letters to her late grandmother and insightful poetry written in her journal, the sorrow and hardship of the ordeal is brought to light in a unique voice.” —  Jeanne Fredriksen. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“The Hobbit or There and Back Again” by J. R.R. Tolkien — “In a hole in the ground, there lived a hobbit.” So begins one of the most beloved and delightful tales in the English language. Set in the imaginary world of Middle-earth, at once a classic myth and a modern fairy tale, The Hobbit is one of literature’s most enduring and well-loved novels.” — Amazon

ADULT FICTION

“All Your Perfects” by Colleen Hoover — “Half-adorable, half gut-wrenching—and wholly a great read. Hoover captures the amazing side of a happy marriage, while at the same time connecting with the struggles of having one’s expectation of ‘the perfect life’ not being met.” — (Library Journal (starred review))

“The Cloven: A Novel” by B. Catling — “A surrealistic and entertaining amalgamation of religion, philosophy, art, and nature. . . . Catling draws a compelling picture of man versus nature in an impressive story of good and evil, environmentalism, and the will of man to conquer all. . . . Visceral, violent, and literary.” —Booklist

“Conscience” by Alice Mattison — “Conscience will be a bittersweet read for many who remember the Vietnam War era. Using two narrative strands, related by three richly complex narrators, the book explores a half century in emotional and political depth.”
– New York Journal of Books

“Envy: A Seven Deadly Sins Novel” by Victoria Christopher Murray — “Murray has penned hot, steamy scenes in which her protagonist’s imagination runs wild, followed by the consequences of her realizing her dangerous dreams. A jarring twist at the end has the reader wondering who the good guys really are.” —Booklist (starred review)

“Fruit of the Drunken Tree” by Ingrid Rojas Contreras — “One of the most dazzling and devastating novels I’ve read in a long time…An exquisitely intimate double portrait of two young women….Unforgettable…Readers of Fruit of the Drunken Tree will surely be transformed.”
—SAN FRANCSICO CHRONICLE

“How to be Famous” by Caitlin Moran — “A joyous, yelping novel about learning to love things without apology or irony… Moran reminds us that playting it cool is a waste of time.” (NPR)

“How to Keep a Secret” by Sarah Morgan — “Emotional, riveting and uplifting. If you’ve got a sister, you’ve got to read this book!”—Susan Mallery, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz — “As Diaz, who delights in playful language, lists, and stream-of-consciousness prose, reconstructs [Hawk’s] adventures, he evokes the multicultural nature of westward expansion, in which immigrants did the bulk of the hard labor and suffered the gravest dangers. . . . An ambitious and thoroughly realized work of revisionist historical fiction.” —Kirkus

“Less: A Novel” by Andrew Sean Greer — “Greer’s novel is philosophical, poignant, funny and wise, filled with unexpected turns….Although Greer is gifted and subtle in comic moments, he’s just as adept at ruminating on the deeper stuff. His protagonist grapples with aging, loneliness, creativity, grief, self-pity and more.”―San Francisco Chronicle

“The Perfect Couple” by Elin Hilderbrand — “a fantastic and clever whodunit that keeps readers in suspense throughout the entire book…Hilderbrand’s books keep getting better and better as they’re well thought out and meticulously written.”―Bookreporter

“The Shepherd’s Hut” by Tim Winton — “A mournful and fast-paced journey into the life of a young man on his own . . . Winton’s novel is alive with pain and suffering, but it is also full of moments of grace and small acts of kindness. Gorgeously written and taut with eloquent, edgy suspense, Jaxie’s journey is a portrait of young manhood amidst extreme conditions, both inward and outward.” ―Publisher’s Weekly, starred review

“Spymaster” by Brad Thor — “Thor convincingly portrays Russia as a reborn Cold War-era evil empire hellbent on reconquering its former territory.” (The Washington Post)

“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens — “Carries the rhythm of an old time ballad. It is clear Owens knows this land intimately, from the black mud sucking at footsteps to the taste of saltwater and the cry of seagulls.”—David Joy, author of The Line That Held Us

BIOGRAPHY

“The Dead Eye and the Deep Blue Sea: A Graphic Memoir of Modern Slavery” by Vannak Anan Prum — “His resonant panels become indelible testimony to prove his experiences, not just for his family but also for the rest of the world. In recognition of his work, he ultimately received a State Department Human Rights Defender Award. . . . This glimpse into the reality of modern-day slavery provides important lessons in empathetic humanity for mature teens.” —Terry Hong, Booklist

“Educated: A Memoir” by Tara Westover — “If [J. D.] Vance’s memoir offered street-heroin-grade drama, [Tara] Westover’s is carfentanil, the stuff that tranquilizes elephants. The extremity of Westover’s upbringing emerges gradually through her telling, which only makes the telling more alluring and harrowing. . . . By the end, Westover has somehow managed not only to capture her unsurpassably exceptional upbringing, but to make her current situation seem not so exceptional at all, and resonant for many others.”—The New York Times Book Review

“John Wilkes Booth and the Women Who Loved Him” by E. Lawrence Abel — “Finally, a thorough book about the women — a socialite, a prostitute, a teenager and at least ten actresses, including the one who tried to maim [John Wilkes Booth] — who loved loved America’s first presidential assassin.” — Kathryn Canavan, author of Lincoln’s Final Hours: Conspiracy, Terror and the Assassination of America’s Greatest President

“Notes on a Foreign Country: An American Abroad in a Post-American World”  by Suzy Hansen — “Hansen’s must-read book makes the argument that Americans, specifically white Americans, are decades overdue in examining and accepting their country’s imperial identity . . . Hansen builds her winning argument by combining personal examination and observation with geopolitical history lessons. She is a fearless patriot, and this is a book for the brave.” ―Emily Dziuban, Booklist (starred review)

“Over My Head: A Doctor’s Own Story of Head Injury from the Inside Looking Out” by Claudia L. Osborn — “Over My Head is a gripping story of recovery from physical injury — told without self-pity and by a courageous, resilient woman. With this book, Dr. Osborn has made sweet use of adversity indeed.” — Richard Selzer, author of Mortal Lessons

ADULT MYSTERY

“Bloody Sunday” by Ben Coes — “Wildly entertaining… Coes takes a terrifyingly plausible scenario ― an Iran-North Korea deal that puts the U.S. in the crosshairs ― and ratchets up the suspense with a countdown to annihilation. Dewey Andreas is the hero these times demand, and Bloody Sunday is a heart-stopping thrill ride.” ―Joseph Finder, New York Times bestselling author of Suspicion and The Switch

“Dreams of Falling” by Karen White — “This wonderfully woven novel has it all—intrigue, romance, echoes of lingering regrets—and the pages are brimming with compelling characters. Dreams of Falling is the best kind of novel—it’s a past-and-present love story expertly wrapped in mystery. Karen White never fails to deliver.”—Susan Meissner, bestselling author of As Bright as Heaven

“The Outsider” by Stephen King — “What begins as a manhunt for an unlikely doppelgänger takes an uncanny turn into the supernatural. King’s skillful use of criminal forensics helps to ground his tale in a believable clinical reality where the horrors stand out in sharp relief.” — Publisher’s Weekly

“Paradox” by Catherine Coulter — “Compelling characters, a timely plot, and international intrigue conspire to keep pages turning.” (Criminal Element on ENIGMA)

“Potter’s Field: An Ash McKenna Novel” by Rob Hart — “An unusual and quite affecting crime novel…we agree with a fellow PI who describes our hero as ‘a good kid trying to do the right thing.’” ―Booklist

“The President is Missing” by Bill Clinton and James Patterson — “The pages of The President Is Missing are filled with the classic tropes of a big commercial thriller . . . but the authors resist pure escapism . . . The pleasure of this book is in imagining the wild tales Clinton might disclose about his own years as President, if only he could.” ―Time

“Two Faced” by A. R. Ashworth — “In this smart, dark debut, A. R. Ashworth dishes up a gritty, satisfying plate of murder, greed, and psychopathology. The good guys are flawed in wonderfully human ways. And the bad guys? Evil to the bone…A whirlpool of tension that circles inevitably toward both truth and tragedy, with an ending that will leave readers craving for the next offering in the series.” ―William Kent Krueger, New York Times bestselling and Edgar-award winning author of the Connor O’Cork series

“What Remains of Her” by Eric Rickstad — “A gorgeous thrill ride of a novel. Eric Rickstad’s What Remains of Her is a literary page-turner that delves into the sacred and sometimes fraught relationships between fathers and daughters. In Rickstad’s hands, what will remain with you is the satisfaction of a story masterfully told.” (Lisa Alber, award-winning author of Path Into Darkness)

“Wild Fire: A Shetland Island Mystery” by Ann Cleeves — …designer Helena Fleming and her family have settled in a remote community on Shetland, where she has become a local celebrity by using “Shetland wool to create garments that were shown at London Fashion Week.” One day, Helena is dismayed to find a crude drawing tucked inside a copy of the Shetland Times depicting a gallows. Soon afterward, her 11-year-old son discovers the body of their neighbor’s young nanny, Emma Shearer, hanging from a beam in their byre. Det. Insp. Jimmy Perez, who initially takes charge of what could be a murder case, calls in a crime team from Inverness, which includes his occasional lover, Willow Reeves, who brings emotional complications to the investigation. A number of local residents appear to have had some sort of an ax to grind with Emma, and several suspects emerge.” —  Sarah Menguc, Sarah Menguc Literary Agent (U.K.).  PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

ADULT NON-FICTION

“The Blood of Emmett Till” by Timothy B. Tyson — “The Blood of Emmett Till is a work critical not just to our understanding of something that happened in America in 1955 but of what happens in America here and now. It is a jolting and powerful book… swift-flying and meticulously researched.” (Leonard Pitts The Washington Post)

“Fear: Trump in the White House” by Bob Woodward — “A harrowing portrait of the Trump presidency . . . Again and again, Woodward recounts at length how Trump’s national security team was shaken by his lack of curiosity and knowledge about world affairs and his contempt for the mainstream perspectives of military and intelligence leaders.”—Phillip Rucker and Robert Costa, The Washington Post

“Liars, Leakers, and Liberals: The Case Against the Anti-Trump Conspiracy” by Judge Jeanine Pirro — At this point in American history, we are the victims of a liberal sabotage of the presidency unlike anything we’ve ever witnessed. Nevertheless President Trump continues to fight every day to keep his promise to Make America Great Again. Today that bold idea has already led to a conservative judge on the Supreme Court, tax reform, and deregulation that has unleashed an economy stronger than anyone could have imagined.
But there are dark forces that seek to obstruct and undermine the president and reverse the results of the 2016 presidential election. They are part of a wide-ranging conspiracy that would seem incredible if it weren’t being perpetrated openly. Driven by ambition, blinded by greed, and bound by a common goal-to unseat the 45th President of the United States-this cabal is determined to maintain its wrongful hold on national political power…..
It’s about time the American public knows the truth about the plot to bring down the Trump presidency. By the time you’ve finished this book, you’ll agree with Judge Pirro that the only way to stop these hoodlums is to Take Them Out in Cuffs!” — Front Cover

“Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America” by James Forman Jr. — “Timely . . . A masterly account of how a generation of black elected officials wrestled with recurring crises of violence and drug use in the nation’s capital . . . A big deal and a major breakthrough . . . Forman’s novel claim is this: What most explains the punitive turn in black America is not a repudiation of civil rights activism, as some have argued, but an embrace of it . . . ” ―Khalil Gibran Muhammad, The New York Times Book Review

“Red Scare in the Green Mountains: Vermont in the McCarthy Era 1946-1960” by Rick Winston – “Well-written and thoroughly researched, Rick Winston’s Red Scare in the Green Mountains shines a penetrating light on and compellingly recreates the little-known story of how valiant Vermonters rallied to withstand the pressures and distortions of the McCarthy Era. Strikingly relevant for our own era.” Tony Hiss, author of The View from Alger’s Window — back cover

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“Victoria the Queen: An Intimate Biography of the Woman Who Ruled an Empire” by Julia Baird — “…Fifth in line to the throne at the time of her birth, Victoria was an ordinary woman thrust into an extraordinary role. As a girl, she defied her mother’s meddling and an adviser’s bullying, forging an iron will of her own. As a teenage queen, she eagerly grasped the crown and relished the freedom it brought her. She was outspoken with her ministers, overstepping conventional boundaries and asserting her opinions. And as science, technology, and democracy were dramatically reshaping the world, Victoria was a symbol of steadfastness and security-queen of a quarter of the world’s population at the height of the British Empire’s reach.” — Baker & Taylor Annotation

LARGE PRINT

MUSIC

“John Williams: A Life in Music”

BLUE/DVD

“The 15:17 to Paris”
“Black Panther”
“The Child in Time”
“GI Jews: Jewish Americans in World War II”
“Great Escape at Dunkirk”
“I Kill Giants”
“Lady and the Tramp”
“LIttle Women”
“Red Sparrow”
“Super Troopers 2”
“Unforgotten: The Complete First Season”
“The War: A Ken Burns Film”
“Wonderstruck”
“A Wrinkle in Time”

BOARD BOOK

“Mary Poppins ABC” by P. L. Travers
“Big Trucks: Getting the Job Done Together” – Sergio De Giorgi, illustrator

PICTURE BOOK

“Adrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse” by Marcy Campbell
“Allie All Along” by Sarah Lynne Reul
“Am I Yours” by Alex Latimer
“Are You Scared, Darth Vader” by Adam Rex
“An Atlas of Imaginary Places” by Mia Cassany
“A Big Mooncake for Little Star” by Grace Lin
“Blue” by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
“Drawn Together” by Minh Le
“Geraldine” by Elizabeth Lilly
“Giraffe Problems” by Jory John
“The Golden Glow” by Benjamin Flouw
“Hello Lighthouse” by Sophie Blackall
“How to Code a Sandcastle”  by Josh Funk
“Imagine” by Raul Colon
“Interrupting Chicken and the Elephant of Surprise” by David Ezra Stein
“Maximillian Vilainous” by Margaret Chiu Greanias
“A Parade of Elephants” by Kevin Henkes
“Pie is for Sharing” by Stephanie Ledyard
“Pretty Kitty” by Karen Beaumont
“Red Sky at Night” by Elly MacKay
“The Remember Balloons” by Jessie Oliveros
“Rock What Ya Got” by Samantha Berger
“The Rough Patch” by Brian Lies
“Saturday is Swimming Day” by Hyewon Yum
“Sir Simon Super Scarer” by Cale Atkinson
“Snow Pony and the Seven Miniature Ponies” by Christian Trimmer
“Sterling, Best Dog Ever” by Aidan Cassie
“Ten, Nine, Eight” by Molly Bang
“Too Much! Not Enough” by Gina Perry
“You’re Safe with Me” by Chitra Soundar & Poonam Mistry

JUVENILE AUDIO

“Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales”  by Hans Christian Andersen — “Unlike the Brothers Grimm, who collected and retold folklore and fairy tales, Hans Christian Andersen adopted the most ancient literary forms and distilled them into a genre that was uniquely his own. His fairy tales are remarkable for their sense of fantasy, power of description, and vivid imagination. They are like no others written before or since.” — Public Domain (P)2018 Listening Library

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler”  — “Biographies of key figures from WWII are plentiful in kids books, but Hendrix’s captivating account of the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a standout . . . The combination of Hendrix’s sharp, concise words and evocative artwork gives readers a strong sense of historical context, the enormity of the perilous actions undertaken by Bonhoeffer and other resistance fighters, and the revolutionary nature of his theology of action and civil disobedience. A poignant, compellingly presented, and timely account of a brave individual who lived his life with true conviction.” — (Booklist)

“The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science” by Joyce Sidman – “A fantastic array of illustrations embellish the text with photos of butterflies, caterpillars, and chrysalises, and lovely images of Maria’s artwork and that of her fathers. Meanwhile, exceptional captions identify and establish each illustration’s relevance to Maria’s life. A vibrant, wonderfully rounded biography on a pioneering and prodigiously talented woman.” — Booklist, starred review

“Thomas Paine and the Dangerous Word” by Sarah Jane Marsh — “Nobody expected much of young Thomas Paine,” begins Marsh in this buoyant story of Paine’s often-turbulent development as a Revolutionary-era writer and political activist. Though Paine attended school as a youth, he was forced to withdraw to work in his father’s corset shop. Nevertheless, as Paine is quoted as saying, “The mind once enlightened cannot again become dark.” Marsh recounts difficult passages in Paine’s life–failed businesses, bankruptcy, the death of his first wife and separation from his second–demonstrating how his love of the written word and dogged persistence (along with a fortuitous meeting with Benjamin Franklin) led to his eventual fame. Once in America, Paine channeled his outrage over the injustice of slavery and advocacy for American independence into his magnum opus, Common Sense. … Describing Paine as “America’s first best-selling author,” Marsh pays tribute to this inspiring historical figure.”

JUVENILE FICTION

“Beyond the Bright Sea” by Lauren Wolk — “Wolk has a keen sense for the seaside landscape, skillfully mining the terror the ocean can unleash as a furious nor’easter heightens tension in the novel’s climax.” — Booklist, starred review

“Blooming at the Texas Sunrise Motel” by Kimberly Willis Holt — “Holt . . .returns to the South to tell a tender, character-driven story, this time of a girl discovering her roots. . .This gently told narrative will appeal to readers of heartfelt, realistic fiction.”-Booklist

“The Dark Prophecy, Trials of Apollo, Book Two” by Rick Riordan — “Apollo (now a human teen called Lester) and friends head to Indianapolis to save an oracle threatened by a power-mad resurrected Roman emperor. Demigod Meg, who was given command over Apollo but betrayed him in The Hidden Oracle, needs the Throne of Memory–and Apollo’s help–to save herself from an oracle-induced madness. Greek myths form the intriguing backstory of this humorous, gripping action-adventure.” — THE HORN BOOK, c2018.

“Echo’s Sister” by Paul Mosier — “Books like Echo’s Sister are the reason authors are told to ‘write what you know.’ Paul Mosier breaks your heart a dozen times over, then patches it back up so that it’s somehow larger than when you started.” (Sarah Miller, author of Miss Spitfire)

“Family Game Night and Other Catastrophes” by Mary E. Lambert — “Brave, honest and heartfelt. With grace and humor, the author tackles the overlooked subject of hoarding and gives us a loving portrait of a family in the process of healing.” — Phoebe Stone, author of The Boy on Cinnamon Street

“Ghost Boys” by Jewell Parker Rhodes — “Rhodes captures the all-too-real pain of racial injustice and provides an important window for readers who are just beginning to explore the ideas of privilege and implicit bias.” ―School Library Journal, starred review

“Halfway Normal” by Barbara Dee — “A powerful story about surviving and thriving after serious illness.” (School Library Journal, Starred Review School Library Journal)

“Harbor Me” by Jacqueline Woodson — “Woodson celebrates all that is essential and good for humanity—compassion, understanding, security, and freedom—in this touching novel. . . . Woodson’s skills as poet and master storyteller shine brightly here as she economically uses language to express emotion and delve into the hearts of her characters. Showing how America’s political and social issues affect children on a daily basis, this novel will leave an indelible mark on readers’ minds.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Louisiana’s Way Home” by Kate DiCamillo — DiCamillo builds a resilient and sympathetic character in Louisiana, and the juxtaposition of her down-to-earth observations with Granny’s capriciousness lightens the narrative and allows for a good deal of humor…The overarching themes addressing forgiveness, love, friendship, acceptance, home, and family (“Perhaps what matters when all is said and done is not who puts us down but who picks us up”) ring honest and true.” —The Horn Book (starred review)

“The Magic Misfits” by Neil Patrick Harris — “Adventure, suspense, and excitement await these young magic misfits as they learn to trust one another and become friends.”―School Library Connection

“The Magic Misfits: The Second Story” by Neil Patrick Harris — “Acceptance, love, and understanding are at the heart of this novel, which features a diverse cast of child characters… the message that friendship helps children conquer adversity is a welcome one.”―Kirkus

“Restart” by Gordon Korman — “Middle schooler Chase Ambrose falls off his roof and into a new life in this thought-provoking novel laced with Korman’s trademark humor. As Chase, who has concussion-induced amnesia, realizes he used to be a bully, he decides his former identity won’t be his future destiny. Told from the perspective of Chase and a few classmates, the novel addresses issues of bullying directly and realistically.” —  THE HORN BOOK, c2018.

“Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe” by Jo Watson Hackl — “Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe is part treasure hunt, part wilderness adventure, and all heart.”–Alan Gratz, New York Times Bestselling author of Refugee

“A Stitch in Time” by Daphne Kalmar — “Kalmar introduces a delightfully intricate character in Donut, whose passions include bird taxidermy, memorizing tidbits from the atlas Pops gave her, and her friendships with affectingly portrayed Vermonters. The author leaves readers knowing that her insightful, articulate, and wry heroine will land―solidly―on her feet.”–Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Talons of Power (Wings of Fire, Book 9)” by Tui Sutherland — “The war is over. The false prophecy has been fulfilled. But the dragonets still have enemies. A dark evil, buried for centuries, is stirring.
And a young NightWing may have had the first true prophecy in generations . . .

Something is coming to shake the earth
Something is coming to scorch the ground
Jade Mountain will fall beneath thunder and ice
Unless the lost city of night can be found.

…the next chapter in the epic, bestselling Wings of Fire series!” — Amazon

“The Trumpet of the Swan: Illustrated Edition” by E. B. White — “The delightful classic by E. B. White, author of Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little , about overcoming obstacles and the joy of music. Now featuring gorgeous illustrations by Fred Marcellino! Like the rest of his family, Louis is a trumpeter swan. But unlike his four brothers and sisters, Louis can’t trumpet joyfully. In fact, he can’t even make a sound. And since he can’t trumpet his love, the beautiful swan Serena pays absolutely no attention to him. Louis tries everything he can think of to win Serena’s affection-he even goes to school to learn to read and write. But nothing seems to work. Then his father steals him a real brass trumpet. Is a musical instrument the key to winning Louis his love? “We, and our children, are lucky to have this book.” -John Updike

“Where the Watermelons Grow” by Cindy Baldwin — “Where the Watermelons Grow is a spot-on, insightful novel about a preteen learning to live with and accept a parent’s mental illness.” (BookPage.com)

‘Where the Woods End” by Charlotte Salter — “Hand to readers who like their plots action-packed, their monsters fanged, and their fairy tales dark.” —Booklist

JUVENILE NON FICTION

“The Big Book of the Blue” by Yuval Zommer — “Cheerful, witty, and absolutely enticing… The oversize pages featuring creatures from the deep blue sea are filled from top to bottom with illustrations encompassing a palette of blues [and] drawings are unique in their crisp details and dizzying compositions. Factual and visually accurate, this sure-fire kid magnet should prompt a lot of interest―and requests for multiple readings. Just be sure to allow plenty of time for poring over each page.” — Booklist (starred review)

“Grand Canyon” by Jason Chin — “An outstanding introduction to one of the world’s greatest outdoor wonders, with much to offer elementary students about Southwestern biomes, sedimentary geology, and the profound pleasures of observing nature.”―School Library Journal, starred review

“The Great Rhino Rescue: Saving the Southern White Rhinos” by Sandra Markle — “…Markle describes the shrinking population of southern white rhinoceroses. Conservation measures, including laws against the sale of their horns, during the twentieth century had led to increases in the animals’ numbers. In 2007, poachers killed 13 rhinos. In 2015, they killed 1,338, the devastating result of a false rumor (spread through Asia) that ground rhino horn cured cancer. Besides discussing history and strategies for saving the southern white rhino, the book introduces a baby and its mother, rangers patrolling rhino habitats, and vets working to save orphaned calves as well as older animals mutilated by poachers…. An informative volume explaining an ongoing conservation crisis.”–Booklist

“Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers: Celebrating Animal Underdogs” by Melissa Stewart — “Puny? Poky? Clumsy? Shy? A lighthearted look at the surprising traits that help some animals survive. Written with a lively, playful voice, Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers introduces young readers to a variety of “animal underdogs” and explains how characteristics that might seem like weaknesses are critical for finding food and staying safe in an eat-or-be-eaten world. Award-winning author Melissa Stewart offers readers a humorous and informative nonfiction picture book with a gentle message of understanding and celebrating differences. Stephanie Laberis’s bright, bold―and scientifically accurate―illustrations add to the fun.” —  Publisher Annotation

“Space Boy, Volume 1” by Stephen McCranie — Amy, 16, has spent her whole life on a mining colony in deep space. When her father loses his job, she and her family must move back to Earth. To make the 30-year trip back, they are cryogenically frozen. Upon awakening on Earth, Amy must adjust to life in a new place and time. Technology has drastically changed, her old friends have grown up and have children of their own, and everyone at her high school seems peculiar to her, especially a mysterious boy named Oliver. The characters in this graphic novel are a joy–so expressive and authentic, it’s impossible not to care for them. Amy’s synesthesia causes her to associate people with flavors, which adds dimension to the characters. Her mother is like mint, “sharp and bright”; her father is like hot chocolate, “sweet and full of gentle warmth.” The linework is superb, the palette appealing, and the backgrounds dynamic–vivid yet subtle, they deftly illustrate Amy’s flavors. The panel layouts mimic the original webcomic version of the book, with long flowing panels or sets of panels that advance the action smoothly and create lots of drama.” —  Kelley Gile, Cheshire Public Library, CT. SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2018.

YOUNG ADULT

“Not Even Bones” by Rebecca Schaeffer — “Twisty, grisly, genre-bending and immersive, Not Even Bones will grab you by the throat and drag you along as it gleefully tramples all of your expectations.” —Sara Holland, New York Times best-selling author of Everless

“Here to Stay” by Sara Farizan — “Islamophobia, racism, homo- and heterosexuality, toxic masculinity, offensive sports mascots, activism, friendship, immigration, school politics, gun rights, and a splash of Iranian history make this about a lot more than high-school sports.”
—Booklist

 

ADULT FICTION

“Beautiful Music” by Michael Zadoorian” — “Michael Zadoorian has captured an era when Detroit simmered with anger and fear while it simultaneously reverberated with the joyous noise of rock and roll. Beautiful Music eloquently evokes the beauty, confusion, and power of that late 1960s/early 1970s milieu.” –Don Was, Grammy Award–winning producer, musician

“Boardwalk Summer” by Meredith Jaeger — “In Boardwalk Summer, Meredith Jaeger expertly entwines two stories of two strong women living decades apart in Santa Cruz. By turns a gripping mystery, a richly-detailed exploration of history and family, and a beautiful love story – I was absolutely captivated.” (Jillian Cantor, author of Margot and The Lost Letter)

“Days Without End” by Sebastian Barry — “Barry’s magisterial tale of love, war and redemption is one of the year’s great novels . . . Visceral violence, wrenching emotion, astutely drawn characters and a compelling narrative voice make for memorable reading.”—Minneapolis Star Tribune

“Empire of Light” by Michael Bible — “Bible revisits the teenage years of the visionary Reverend Alvis Maloney… [and] bathes the dark story of teenage rebellion in an otherworldly light, deepening Maloney’s intriguing mythology.”—PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

“Gateway to the Moon” by Mary Morris — “A sweeping generational tale that stretches from the Spanish Inquisition to modern-day New Mexico, beginning with Luis de Torres, a Spanish Jew who accompanies Columbus as his interpreter.” –New York Post

“Grey Sister” by Mark Lawrence — “Lawrence’s suspenseful account of Nona’s efforts to complete her training and gain control over her powers balances action and introspection, and will keep readers hooked.”—Publishers Weekly

“How to Walk Away” by Katherine Center — “Center explores the limits of hope and love…[she] transforms the story of a family tragedy into a heartfelt guide to living the fullest life possible.” ―Publisher’s Weekly

“Indian Horse” by Richard Wagamese — “Many indigenous authors have portrayed the horrific conditions endured by Native children in boarding schools in both the US and Canada throughout much of the twentieth century. But perhaps no author has written a novel with such raw, visceral emotion about the lifelong damage resulting from this institutionalization as Wagamese . . . Wagamese’s heart-wrenching tale was made into an award-winning movie, and it tells a story that will long haunt all readers.”―Booklist (starred review)

“Limelight” by Amy Poeppel — “A delightful, twist-of-fate tale of a suburban transplant whose new Manhattan life collides with that of a troubled pop star on the cusp of his Broadway debut. LIMELIGHT is a quintessential New York story of motherhood, family, and fairy-tale possibilities. A must-read for fans of Lauren Weisberger and Sophie Kinsella.” (Jamie Brenner, bestselling author of The Husband Hour)

“Lost in the Beehive” by Michele Youth-Stone —  “Emotionally rewarding…Readers’ hearts will ache for Gloria as she strives for courage, self-realization, and, ultimately, the freedom to love and be loved.” —Publishers Weekly

“Love and Other Words” by Christina Lauren — “… Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings craft a dynamic love story, alternating swiftly between Macy’s present and her past. Love and Other Words brings to life a romance that stands the test of hardship and time and will restore anyone’s faith in love.” — Norstedt, Melissa. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“My Mother’s Son” by David Hirshberg — “Sometimes it’s the lies we grow up with—more than the truths—that define who we are and where we come from. That’s the message of David Hirshberg’s coming-of-age novel, My Mother’s Son. Through the eyes of young Joel, we witness essential elements of the mid-twentieth century: the scourge of polio, the magic of baseball, the repercussions of war, and the development of modern Jewish-American culture. But above all, we come to understand why Joel is his mother’s son—and how that phrase resonates for us all. A deceptively simple, profoundly memorable novel.” —Barbara Solomon Josselsohn, author of The Last Dreamer

“Shelter in Place” by Nora Roberts — “Roberts’ newest is part thriller, part romance, part survivors’ psychological study with a touch of New Age magic―and a lively, captivating read.” – Kirkus

“Where Hope Begins” by Catherine West — ‘West’s compelling and heart-wrenching, rising-from-the ashes novel realistically delves into the tough issues of suicide, anger, and guilt with a touch of grace and hope.’ (Library Journal STARRED review)

BIOGRAPHY

“At Home on the Kazakh Steppe: A Peace Corps Memoir” by Janet Givens — “When a mid-fifties grandmother follows her husband of just three years into the Peace Corps, she leaves behind a promising new career, her home, two brand-new grandbabies, and her beloved dog. Assigned to Kazakhstan, a Central Asian country finding its own way after generations under Soviet rule, she too must find a way to be in a world different from what she knew. Feeling the stresses of a difficult new language, surprising cultural differences, and unexpected changes in her husband, Givens questions the loss of all she’s given up. Will it be worth it?” — Back Cover

“A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies and Leadership” by James B. Comey, Jr. — …Comey revisits conflicts between duty and politics under three presidents: as deputy attorney general, wrangling with the Bush White House over the legality of interrogation procedures such as waterboarding;… guarding the hospitalized attorney general John Ashcroft from White House officials’ bedside efforts to reauthorize illegal surveillance programs; and overseeing the FBI’s probe of Hillary Clinton’s emails (he revisits and explains the actions that, it has been claimed, cost her the election). Comey mines his recollections for leadership lessons, with Barack Obama, whom he admires, furnishing the best examples. His damning portrait of Trump, on the other hand, is a study in unethical, off-putting anti-leadership: he likens Trump to a Mafia boss for pressuring him to show personal loyalty and drop the investigation of Trump’s national security adviser Michael Flynn, cringes at Trump’s defensive and crass denials of claims that he consorted with Russian prostitutes, and “desperately tried to erase myself from the president’s field of vision” at a gathering to avoid Trump’s unpleasant schmoozing. This is a troubling and important account of the clash between power and justice.” —  PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

ADULT MYSTERY

“Against the Law: A Legal Thriller” by Jay Brandon — “During a trial, Edward Hall, a well-known Houston defense attorney, and Cynthia Miles, the prosecutor he’s trying a drug case against, help themselves to the cocaine in evidence before engaging in intercourse in the judge’s chambers. When these shenanigans become known, Edward covers for Cynthia and takes the rap for the evidence tampering. After two years in prison, the disbarred lawyer finds steady work as a salesman, until he gets a desperate call from his physician sister, Amy, who has been arrested for murdering her estranged husband. The prosecution is convinced of Amy’s guilt–she was found, bloodstained, next to the corpse–but despite his disbarment, Edward agrees to defend her, only to find that Cynthia, now a judge, will preside over the high-profile murder trial. No one in authority realizes that Edward no longer has a license to practice law as he seeks to prove his sister’s innocence. Brandon, a Texas criminal lawyer, knows how to ratchet up tension in the courtroom, but multiple contrivances don’t bode well for future entries. ” —PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2018.

“The Bomb Shelter” by Jon Talton — “Talton celebrates investigative reporting and deplores the real-estate development that has damaged Phoenix as he delves into the dirty past and politics of the city. The ninth entry in a justly praised series.”  — (Michele Leber Booklist)

“The Dark Angel” by Elly Griffiths — “There is a charming old-home-week feel to this Italian adventure. The humor is well placed, as are the insightful forays into Italy’s history and people, but the gripping ending leaves no doubt that this is, above all, a mystery…A sure bet for fans of strong-minded women and wry humor in the tradition of Rhys Bowen and M.C. Beaton”
— Booklist, STARRED review

“The Dark Side of Town” by Sasscer Hill — “Hill brings an insider’s knowledge to the world of high-stakes racing and accompanying crime. Filled with sense-laden descriptions and ever-tightening suspense, this is gripping mystery fare and a terrific successor to the racecourse mystery world first carved out by Dick Francis.”―Booklist (starred)

“The Fallen” by David Baldacci — “Baldacci is a wonderful storyteller, and he incorporates wonderful characters into baffling conspiracies. …he takes on small-town America, capturing both good and bad elements. He demonstrates why these small towns are worth saving. It’s a theme he has explored before, but it still has potency and relevance.”―Associated Press on The Fallen

“Hide and Sneak” by G. A. McKevett — “Savannah Reid, a former San Carmelita, California, cop and currently a private investigator and owner of the Midnight Magnolia Detective Agency, is hired by Academy Award-winning actor Ethan Malloy to find his wife, Beth, and son, Freddy. Beth stormed out of the house after an argument with Ethan, taking young Freddy and his nanny, Pilar, with her, and now she is not responding to Ethan’s calls and texts. Savannah’s husband, Detective Sergeant Dirk Coulter, becomes involved when Pilar is found dead in a local park with no sign of Beth and Freddy. Meanwhile, Savannah’s good friend and agency computer expert Tammy is worried about her wealthy, critical parents’ visit and is not her usual sunny self. Savannah, a strong-willed, opinionated woman, leads a cast of quirky, well-drawn characters in this humorous cozy…” — O’Brien, Sue.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“Plain Confession” by Emma Miller — Pennsylvania bed-and-breakfast owner Rachel Mast should be busy getting ready for her wedding to state trooper Evan Parks, but a murder in the Amish community where she grew up is increasingly stealing her attention. Shy Moses Studer has been arrested for putting two bullets in his brother-in-law on the first day of deer season. Moses’ mother begs Rachel to prove her son’s innocence…. Rachel acts as cultural interpreter between the police and the Amish, advising police on what forms of address to avoid, for example, and occasionally translating from English to Pennsylvania Dutch. Nostalgic for some of the clear direction that life in a closed community provided, Rachel ruminates on topics that range from straight pins to cell phones to berry crumble. A gentle read for cozy fans, especially those curious about contemporary Amish lifestyles.” —  Keefe, Karen. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018

“The Punishment She Deserves” by Elizabeth George — “Rich with descriptive detail and emotional nuance. Several alternating plot threads unspool at length, all of which weave tightly together with pleasing inevitability. . . . What has been said before deserves repeating: From suspense to social commentary, from violence to pathos, from villainy to possible redemption, Ms. George can do it all, with style.” — —Wall Street Journal

“The Rising Sea: A Novel from the NUMA FIles” by Clive Cussler — In one of the best recent novels to bear the Cussler name, Kurt Austin and his NUMA colleagues wing their way to Japan, where a researcher widely dismissed as a crackpot claims to have discovered activity in the East China Sea–strange activity that can’t be explained by natural events. After narrowly escaping a well-staged assassination attempt, the NUMA team launches a full investigation, soon stumbling onto a massive conspiracy involving a rare and hitherto unimagined alloy that could upset the balance of political and economic power across the globe. ” — Pitt, David.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

“Savage Liberty: A Mystery of Revolutionary America” by Eliot Pattison — “Prepare to be immersed in this story of early America . . . This is historical writing at its best, with plenty of action and suspense. It’s difficult to put down.” ―Historical Novel Society

“Twenty-One Days: A Daniel Pitt Novel” by Anne Perry — “Readers will quickly fall in love with [Daniel] Pitt, following along as he investigates a gruesome murder and chuckling as he throws those involved off kilter. Perry is a master at bringing setting to life, and readers will be taken in by the time and place as they get to know Daniel Pitt and those close to him in this engaging novel.”—RT Book Reviews

“Twisted Prey” by John Sandford — “One of the best in an always-strong series. Given the current geopolitical reality, it’s timely, too, and the conclusion is a rockin’ ‘didn’t see that coming’ beauty.”—Booklist

“The Way I Die” b y Derek Haas — “‘You’re not going to like me when this is over,’ Haas’s hit man warns his readers. Maybe not, but you won’t be able to avert your eyes from a single scene in this stripped-down, dead-eyed, professional-grade actioner.” – Kirkus Reviews

“The Woman in the Window” by A. J. Finn — “Astounding. Thrilling. Lovely and amazing….Finn has created a noir for the new millennium, packed with mesmerizing characters, stunning twists, beautiful writing and a narrator with whom I’d love to split a bottle of pinot. Maybe two bottles—I’ve got a lot of questions for her.” — (#1 New York Times bestselling author Gillian Flynn)

ADULT NON-FICTION

“The Assault on Intelligence: American National Security in an Age of Lies” by Michael V. Hayden — “The more important, absorbing and disturbing aspect of Hayden’s book is the analysis from his professional perspective of what Trump and Trumpism mean for the intelligence community. It is sober, nuanced and, quite frankly, scary as hell.” – Mark Galeotti, Washington Post

“Bellevue: Three Centuries of Medicine and Mayhem at America’s Most Storied Hospital” by David Oshinsky — “Deeply engrossing . . . Oshinsky has wrestled an institutional history of significant complexity into a compelling tale . . . [He] is a master of finding and relating memorable anecdotes to embody the history. The result is a serious story studded with juicy and occasionally blood-curdling bits from the past.” —Chicago Tribune

“Fascism: A Warning” by Madeleine Albright — “Albright outlines the warning signs of fascism and offers concrete actions for restoring America’s values and reputation. There is priceless wisdom on every page.” (Booklist (starred review))

“It’s Even Worse Than You Think: What the Trump Administration is Doing to America” by David Cay Johnston — “It’s Even Worse Than You Think shines a light on actions by the White House and Trump-appointed federal officials on climate change, job creation, taxes, race, immigration, and foreign affairs, among other topics, that should concern – and alarm – all Americans.” (Glenn Altschuler The Huffington Post)

“The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women” by Kate Moore — “Carefully researched, the work will stun readers with its descriptions of the glittering artisans who, oblivious to health dangers, twirled camel-hair brushes to fine points using their mouths, a technique called lip-pointing…Moore details what was a ‘ground-breaking, law-changing, and life-saving accomplishment’ for worker’s rights.” – Publishers Weekly

“War on Peace: The End of Diplomacy and the Decline of American Influence” by Ronan Farrow — “Has the United States turned its back on diplomacy, and on its diplomats? And if so, at what cost? Farrow makes a good case that we have, and that the cost will be high….He captures extraordinarily well what the work of diplomacy means.” – Barbara K. Bodine, San Francisco Chronicle

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

LARGE PRINT

“The Girl in the Tower” by Katherine Arden — “Arden’s lush, lyrical writing cultivates an intoxicating, visceral atmosphere, and her marvelous sense of pacing carries the novel along at a propulsive clip. A masterfully told story of folklore, history, and magic with a spellbinding heroine at the heart of it all.”—Booklist (starred review)

MUSIC

“100 Sing-Along-Songs for Kids”
“If All I Was Was Black” by Mavis Staples

BLUE/DVD

“Black Code”
“Coco”
“Ferdinand”
“The Greatest Showman”
“The Handmaid’s Tale: Season One”
“I Am Not Your Negro”
“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”
“Justice League”
“Lego DC Comics Super Heroes  – The Flash”
“The Maple Sugaring Story”
“Paddington 2”
“Paw Patrol Sea Patrol”
“Peter Rabbit”
“Poldark: The Complete Second Season”
“The Post”
“Star Wars Episode VIII The Last Jedi”
“Victoria The Complete First Season”
“Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace”

BOARD BOOK

“The Mitten” by Jan Brett
“Peek-a-Flap Moo” by Jaye Garnett
“The Very Lonely Firefly” by Eric Carle
“Where’s Spot?” by Eric Hill

PICTURE BOOK

“The Book of MIstakes” by Corinna Luyken
“Can I Be Your Dog?” by Troy Cummings
“Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut” by Derrick Barnes
“Grains of Sand” by Sibylle Delacroix
“Hello Hello” by Brendan Wenzel
“Inky the Octopus” by Erin Guendelsberger
“I Want to Be a Doctor” by Laura Driscoll
“Iver & Ellsworth” by Casey W. Robinson
“Jerome by Heart” by Thomas Scotto
“Julian is a Mermaid” by Jessica Love
“Just Right Family: An Adoption Story” by Silvia Lopez
“Malala”s Magic Pencil” by Malala Yousafzai
“Misunderstood Shark by Amy Dyckman
“Nanny Paws” by Wendy Wahman
“Ocean Meets Sky” by Terry Fan
“The Outlaw” by Nancy Vo
“Penguin and Tiny Shrimp Don’t Do Bedtime!” by Cate Berry
“Pippa & Percival, Pancake & Poppy: Four Peppy Puppies” by Deborah Diesen
“The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet!” by Carmen Agra Deedy
“Shark Nate-O” by Tara Luebbe and Becky Cattie
“Square” by Mac Barnett
“A Stone for Sascha” by Aaron Becker
“Summer Supper” by Rubin Pfeffer
“Twilight Chant” by Holly Thompson
“Whale in a Fishbowl” by Troy Howell
“Wolf in the Snow” by Matthew Cordell

JUVENILE AUDIO

“March Forward Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine” by Melba Pattillo Beals

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court” by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar —  “More than a play-by-play sports story, it’s an honest, powerful exposition of what it means to be black in white America, offering a de facto history of the civil rights movement.”―Booklist, starred review

JUVENILE FICTION

“Across the Dark Water” by Jennifer Lynn Alvarez – “A story with both wings and heart, ACROSS THE DARK WATER is a breathtaking ride into a rich and dangerous world. Animal-lovers and thrill-seekers alike will cheer for Echofrost and Rahkki at each of the many twists and turns. Clever, epic, and wildly imaginative!”– Kamilla Benko, author of The Unicorn Quest 

“Ban This Book” by Alan Gratz — “Readers, librarians, and all those books that have drawn a challenge have a brand new hero in Amy Anne Ollinger. She’s a true champion and testament to how doing a good thing is the first step in finding your own courage.”―Kathi Appelt, Newbery Honor winning author of The Underneath

“The Burning Maze: (The Trials of Apollo, Book Three)  by Rick Riordan — “The formerly glorious god Apollo, cast down to earth in punishment by Zeus, is now an awkward mortal teenager named Lester Papadopoulos. In order to regain his place on Mount Olympus, Lester must restore five Oracles that have gone dark. But he has to achieve this impossible task without having any godly powers and while being duty-bound to a confounding young daughter of Demeter named Meg. Thanks a lot, Dad.” — Baker & Taylor

“Chester and Gus” by Cammie McGovern — “In narrator Benny, readers find a resilient and very observant 9-year-old who accepts those around him with their strengths and shortcomings alike. His story is insightful and inspirational.” (Kirkus)

“Falcon Wild” by Terry Lynn Johnson — “Karma, a 13-year old falconer-to-be, has to give her beloved bird, Stark, back to Stark’s original owner. As she and her father and brother head out into the back-country of Montana to return Stark, things suddenly start to go wrong when their van crashes. Karma finds herself in the middle of nowhere searching for help for her family. This book is an adventurous coming-of-age tale with a  rich and beautiful natural setting. The imagery of the woods and country will make readers feel as if they are journeying alongside the protagonist. The details about the birds and what it takes to survive in the mountains are enlightening. ..” —School Library Journal

“Found (The Missing, Book 1)” by Margaret Peterson Haddix — “Thirteen-year-old Jonah has always known he’s adopted; Chip learns of ‘his’ adoption when both friends start receiving threatening letters labeling them ‘the missing.’ Investigating, the two discover an inter- temporal child-smuggling conflict, both sides of which are out to get them. The fascinating premise of this series opener, buoyed by Haddix’s usual likable characters and fast-paced writing, is loaded with possibilities.” — CG. THE HORN BOOK, c2008.

“Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus” by Dusti Bowling — “Aven is a perky, hilarious, and inspiring protagonist whose attitude and humor will linger even after the last page has turned.” —School Library Journal (Starred review)

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C. S.  Lewis — “Four adventurous siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie—step through a wardrobe door and into the land of Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter and enslaved by the power of the White Witch. But when almost all hope is lost, the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, signals a great change . . . and a great sacrifice. — Baker & Taylor

“Refugee”  by Alan Gratz — “[A] hard-hitting novel. . . . Filled with both tragic loss and ample evidence of resilience, these memorable and tightly plotted stories contextualize and give voice to current refugee crises, underscoring that these journeys are born out of a desperate need for security and safety.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

“The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade” by Jordan Sonnenablick — Maverick Falconer has a difficult home life. Since his father died on active military duty several years ago, his alcoholic mother has entertained a string of abusive boyfriends. Maverick may be short in stature, but he is large of heart, and it’s not hard to root for this underdog as he starts sixth grade. On the first day of middle school, he overreacts to some pranks, landing in the vice principal’s office. Maverick navigates various social obstacles at school (a couple of frenemies and difficult teachers) and family challenges at home before his mother’s younger sister, Aunt Cat, steps up when Mom hits rock bottom and finally seeks treatment. …” —  jonathan hunt.  THE HORN BOOK, c2017.

“The Someday Birds” by Sally J. Pla — “The Someday Birds is a raw, funny road trip story that reminds us that even the most literal-minded people can occasionally be sucker-punched by a miracle.” (BookPage.com)

“Train I Ride” by Paul Mosier —  “In his first novel, Mosier offers a cast of well-drawn characters, an unusual setting, and a rewarding reading experience.” (Booklist (starred review))

“Wishtree” by Katherine Applegate — “Warm and thoughtful, this story is told from the perspective of an ancient oak tree who has seen it all. Bestselling author Katherine Applegate gets readers rooting for the old tree, along with the people and animals who come to depend on it. The shorter length and strong plot are appealing for middle grade readers who are growing into novels with less illustrated narrative and more complex subject matter.” – Seira Wilson, Amazon Editor

JUVENILE NON-FICTION

“All’s Faire in Middle School” by Victoria Jamieson — “A spot-on depiction of the complexities of family dynamics, the nuances of friendship, and the longing to fit in vs. the pull of being true to oneself. Gloriously illustrated in full color, every inch a pleasure. Grade A.” —Sunday Plain Dealer 

“Escape from Syria” by Samy Kullab — “In 2014, a phrase was anonymously spray-painted on a wall in Homs, Syria: “When I leave, be sure I tried everything in my power to stay.” This poignant graffiti reverberates throughout Escape from Syria… Jackie Roche’s drawings and Mike Freiheit’s colour work add intensity and solidify the strong emotional engagement Kullab creates. Feelings of anger and fear are conveyed beautifully with thick black brush strokes where the page’s white gutter usually lies… There are big visual moments in Escape From Syria, but the subtle ones are even more effective.” — (Ardo Omer Quill and Quire 2017-12-01)

“Ferdinand Fox’s First Summer” by Mary Holland — “Ferdinand is a red fox kit who begins life in a den with his brothers and sisters. Readers observe him and his siblings getting milk from their mother and, as they grow, waiting for her to bring them food. Also discussed are foxes’ keen senses and how meaningful play teaches them to thrive in the wild. The story, which takes readers through the course of a year, concludes with Ferdinand’s gradual approach to independence as he must hunt on his own. Each spread includes a large, engaging photo and a paragraph or two of text. The book concludes with additional facts about red foxes and short activities about their life cycle and diets. “-Stephanie Farnlacher,  Library Journals LLC

“The Girl Guide: 50 Ways to Learn to Love Your Changing Body” by Marawa Ibrahim — “In a playful, inviting, and nonjudgmental tone, Ibrahim offers tween girls advice based on her own experiences, covering everything from moodiness, periods, vagina anatomy, and bra sizing to body-image concerns and the importance of mindfulness and exercise.” (Booklist)

“Her Right Foot” by Dave Eggers — “In Eggers’s telling, Liberty is ready not only to greet travelers coming home and those seeking refuge, but to stride forth to welcome them.”–The Washington Post

“I’m Just No Good at Rhyming and Other Nonsense for Mischievous Kids and Immature Grown-Ups” by Chris Harris — “Harris’s impressive debut–containing over one hundred poems, riddles, visual jokes, and nonsense–offers surprising detours and a dazzling variety of forms and subjects, which will keep readers engaged and on their toes. Smith’s stylishly silly mixed-media illustrations raise the irreverence to sublime levels. Occasional bickering between poet and illustrator adds another layer of absurdity. This collection rewards repeat visits.”  — THE HORN BOOK, c2018.

“Over and Under the Pond” by Kate Messner — “Conveys the sights and sounds and motions of a peaceful day spent enjoying and observing nature.”-The Horn Book Magazine

“Ramadan: The Holy Month of Fasting” by Ausma Zehanat Khan — “”The handsomely designed book, full of interesting photographs, explains the significance of Ramadan within the context of Islam…The stories of several children are told, while the wide coverage of Ramadan in a number of parts of the world is a welcome addition. Throughout, Khan’s personable tone brings the holiday close…This will serve both those who know little about Ramadan and those who celebrate it.” (Booklist 2018-03-13)

“Shaking Things Up: 14 Young Women Who Changed the World” by Susan Hood — “Encouraging profiles of astronauts, artists, and activists both honor past accomplishments and point toward ways young readers themselves might change the world, too.” (Publishers Weekly)

“The Whydah: A Pirate Ship Feared Wrecked & Found” by Martin W. Sandler — Sandler offers an insightful look at how different the realities of pirate life were compared to how it has been mythologized in popular culture…A fascinating, vivid look at what one shipwreck reveals about the realities of the “Golden Age of Piracy.” —Kirkus Reviews

“With My Hands: Poems About Making Things” by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater — “Whether invoking cooking, sewing, tying knots, or other undertakings, this provides an enjoyable springboard for aspiring makers.”–Booklist

Woodpeckers: Drilling Holes & Bagging Bugs” by Sneed B. Collard III — Introducing kids to woodpeckers, Collard opens with their most distinctive and crazy-sounding behavior: they repeatedly pound their beak into trees with a force that would leave other species brain-damaged. The text explains their physical adaptations, such as shock-absorbing skull bones, then looks at their motivations. While they peck at trees primarily to reach grubs and ants below the bark, they sometimes drum to communicate with other woodpeckers or drill into wood to create holes for nesting or roosting. In addition to describing family life among woodpeckers and introducing some distinctive species, the text discusses the importance of protecting their habitats, particularly the dead trees they depend upon for survival. …” –Carolyn Phelan —Booklist (Starred Review)

“A Wrinkle in Time” adapted and Illustrated by Hope Larson — “This adaptation is fabulous for presenting a fresh vision to those familiar with the original, but it’s so true to the story’s soul that even those who’ve never read it will come away with a genuine understanding of L’Engle’s ideas and heart.” ―Booklist, starred review

YOUNG ADULT

“Far From the Tree” by Robin Benway — “Equally heartwarming and heart-wrenching… Benway (Emmy & Oliver) delves into the souls of these characters as they wrestle to overcome feelings of inadequacy, abandonment, and betrayal, gradually coming to understand themselves and each other.” — (Publishers Weekly (starred review))

“Everything Beautiful is Not Ruined” by Danielle Younge-Ullman — “Ingrid is an authentic, fully developed character, and her adventures and insights will keep readers riveted to the page.”—VOYA

“The Frontman” by Ron Bahr — “Bahar wields biting humor like a sword, skewering everything from the trials and tribulations of growing up to rock ’n’ roll and the expectations of parents and peers.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Traitor Born” by Amy A. Bartol — In Roselle St. Sismode’s world, your birth position determines your caste for life, as enforced by Census. But there are factions that want to end the caste system. Roselle is an extraordinary fighter, but, caught up in the conflict, she is never sure whom to trust. The world of the Republic is cleverly detailed, with floating military trees, hackable, mechanized domestic assistants, and at least three sides to a very political situation. Readers will need to start with series opener Secondborn (2017) to fully appreciate this well-written story. It’s worth it; with elements of Orson Scott Card’s Ender’s Game (1985) and Ian Fleming’s James Bond, Traitor Born will keep the reader entertained all the way up to the cliff-hanger ending.” — Gerber, Rebecca. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2018.

ADULT FICTION

“Fall from Grace: A Novel” by Danielle Steel — “Steel starts up again in 2018 with a novel featuring newly widowed Sydney Wells, whose adoring husband inexplicably left her out of his will. With his sudden death, his estate goes to his conniving daughter, and 49-year-old Sydney must start from scratch. She begins working in fashion, is entrapped in a shady scheme that leads to criminal prosecution, but (as you might guess) triumphantly rebuilds her life.” — Barbara Hoffert. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2017.

“Human Acts” by Han Kang — “Kang explores the sprawling trauma of political brutality with impressive nuance and the piercing emotional truth that comes with masterful fiction… a fiercely written, deeply upsetting, and beautifully human novel.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee — “Richly told and profoundly moving, Pachinko is a story of love, sacrifice, ambition, and loyalty. From bustling street markets to the halls of Japan’s finest universities to the pachinko parlors of the criminal underworld, Lee’s complex and passionate characters–strong, stubborn women, devoted sisters and sons, fathers shaken by moral crisis–survive and thrive against the indifferent arc of history.” — Amazon

‘Radio Free Vermont: A Fable of Resistance” by BIll McKibben —  “A lean, fantastical, swift-kick-in-the-pants of a read, Radio Free Vermont may not save the world — but it succeeds wildly in making the formidable prospect of resistance feel a bit more fun.” –NPR.org

“Sing, Unburied, Sing” by Jesmyn Ward — “Sing, Unburied, Sing is many things: a road novel, a slender epic of three generations and the ghosts that haunt them, and a portrait of what ordinary folk in dire circumstances cleave to as well as what they — and perhaps we all — are trying to outrun.” —New York Times Book Review

“The Song Rising” by Samantha Shannon — “Shannon’s exploration of a futuristic, perilous Europe remains engaging and evocative . . . The narrative is fueled by a constant sense of tension, as well as both internal and external conflict.” – Publishers Weekly.

“Stay with Me: A Novel” by Ayobami Adebayo — “A bright, big-hearted demonstration of female spirit, as well as the damage done by the boundlessness of male pride.” —The Guardian

“Still Me” by Jojo Moyes — “Moyes’s many fans and newcomers alike will be satisfied by the humor, riveting story, and realistic and well-developed characters.”—Publishers Weekly 

BIOGRAPHY

“The Best We Could Do” by Thi Bui  — “A moving, visually stimulating account of the author’s personal story and an insightful look at the refugee experience, juxtaposed against Vietnam’s turbulent history. “ — (Shelf Awareness, starred review)

“Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body” by Roxane Gay — “Luminous. . . . intellectually rigorous and deeply moving.” — (The New York Times Book Review)

“The Woman Who Smashed Codes” by Jason Fagone — “[Elizebeth Friedman] was a tireless and talented code breaker who brought down gangsters and Nazi spies…a fascinating swath of American history that begins in Gilded Age Chicago and moves to the inner workings of our intelligence agencies at the close of WWII.” — (Los Angeles Times)

ADULT MYSTERY

“City of Endless Night” by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child — “”VERDICT: Fans of the Pendergast series will be delighted with this latest romp and its careful plotting and suspense should appeal to mystery fans generally as well.”―Library Journal

“Dark in Death” by J.D. Robb — “… set in a near-future New York City (after 2016’s Secrets in Death), someone plunges an ice pick into the neck of Chanel Rylan while the 32-year-old aspiring Broadway actress is watching the shower scene in Hitchcock’s Psycho in a Times Square movie theater. Lt. Eve Dallas arrives at the scene to find that no one witnessed the fatal stabbing. Later, novelist Blaine DeLano shows up at the police station where Eve and her team are gathered to report that Chanel’s death is the second that appears to copy a murder from one of her bestselling books. Following meager forensic clues, Eve tries to identify and warn potential new victims and stop the killer. Robb expertly ratchets up the suspense as the endgame approaches in this deadly chess match between Eve and her cunning opponent. ” — Agent: Amy Berkower, Writers House. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“Exposed: A Rosato & DiNunzio Novel” by Lisa Scottoline — “A gripping thriller…Exposed wraps up with a demolition-derby doozy of an ending that will leave you shaken.” ―The Washington Post

“Look for Me” by Lisa Gardner — “Gardner shines a heartbreaking light on foster care abuse while steadily ratcheting up the tension to a genuinely surprising and emotional finale.”—Publishers Weekly

“The Man Upon the Stair: A Mystery in Fin-de-Siecle Paris” by Gary Inbinder — “A dizzying number of details recreate the nineteenth-century Paris of artists, prostitutes, aristocrats, gamblers, and spies. Achille continues to endear, with his mashed flowers and good heart, much like Louise Penny’s Armand Gamache.” — – Booklist

“Operator Down: A Pike Logan Thriller” by Brad Taylor — “Former Delta Force officer Taylor relies on his familiarity with modern combat logistics to create credible characters and complex plots that pulse with intense intrigue, authenticity, and realism. Fans of military thrillers will enjoy how this narrative mirrors current events in the worldwide war on terror.”—Library Journal

“Prussian Blue: A Bernie Gunther Novel” by Philip Kerr – “Kerr once again brilliantly uses a whodunit to bring to horrifying life the Nazi regime’s corruption and brutality.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“The Storm King” by Brendan Duffy — “A powerful story . . . Former friends regroup when a secret kept for years comes to light, threatening the lives they have built. Brendan Duffy adds so many layers that those bare plot bones feel like an entirely new creature.”—The News & Observer

ADULT NON-FICTION

“Angels in the Sky: How a Band of Volunteer Airmen Saved the New State of Israel” by Robert Gandt — “Angels in the Sky reads like a World War II thriller, only better because every word is true. The saga of Israel’s fledgling air force and the motley crew of heroes who saved the Jewish state is one of the great untold stories of history. Robert Gandt has brought it vividly, unforgettably to life.” — – Steven Pressfield, bestselling author of Gates of Fire

“How Democracies Die” by Steven Levitsky & Daniel Ziblatt — “Chilling… A provocative analysis of the parallels between Donald Trump’s ascent and the fall of other democracies.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“Hue 1968: A Turning Point of the American War in Vietnam” by Mark Bowden — “Bowden . . . applies his signature blend of deep reportage and character-driven storytelling to bring readers a fresh look at the 1968 battle in the Vietnamese city of Hue . . . [A] compelling and highly readable narrative . . . A meticulous and vivid retelling of an important battle.”―Linda Robinson, New York Times Book Review

“Rise and Kill First: The Secret History of Israel’s Targeted Assassinations” by Ronen Bergman — “Blending history and investigative reporting, Bergman never loses sight of the ethical questions that arise when a state, founded as a refuge for a stateless people who were targets of a genocide, decides it needs to kill in order to survive. . . . This book is full of shocking moments, surprising disturbances in a narrative full of fateful twists and unintended consequences.”—The New York Times

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah — “Hannah skillfully situates the emotional family saga in the events and culture of the late ’70s… But it’s her tautly drawn characters―Large Marge, Genny, Mad Earl, Tica, Tom―who contribute not only to Leni’s improbable survival but to her salvation amid her family’s tragedy.” ―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

LARGE PRINT

“LIttle Fires Everywhere: A Novel” by Celeste NG — “Mesmerizing…The result is a deftly woven plot that examines a multitude of issues, including class, wealth, artistic vision, abortion, race, prejudice and cultural privilege.” —BookPage 

MUSIC

BLUE/DVD

“Baby Driver”
“Blade Runner – The Final Cut”
“Cars 3”
“Citizen Jane: Battle for the City”
“The Dark Tower”
“The Emoji Movie”
“Girls Trip”
“IT”
“Masterpiece: The Collection”
“Murder on the Orient Express”
“Outlander Season One Volume One”
“War for the Planet of the Apes”
“Wonder”

 

BOARD BOOK

“Bus Stops” by Taro Gomi
“Good Night, Gorilla” by Peggy Rathmann

KIT

PICTURE BOOK

“Baby Monkey, Private Eye” by Brian Selznick and David Serlin
“Bertolt” by Jacques Goldstyn
“Days with Dad” by Nari Hong
“Florette” by Anna Walker
“Gingerbread Friends” by Jan Brett
“Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth” by Oliver Jeffers
“In the Town All Year ‘Round” by Rotraut Susanne Berner
“The Little Boy Who Lived Down the Drain” by Carolyn Huizinga Mills
“Love” by Matt de la Pena
“A Pattern for Pepper” by Julie Kraulis
“Play Ball, Amelia Bedalia” by Peggy Parish
“Plume” by Isabelle Simler
“Rabbit & Possum” by Dana Wulfekotte
“Snow Sisters! Two Sisters, One Snowy Day” by Kerri Kokias & Teagan White
“Teddy’s Favorite Toy” by Christian Trimmer
“There’s an Alligator Under My Bed” by Mercer Mayer
“They All Saw a Cat” by Brendan Wenzel
“Town is by the Sea” by Joanne Schwartz
“What Do You Do With a Chance?” by Kobi Yamada
“The Word Collector” by Peter H. Reynolds

JUVENILE AUDIO

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” by Elizabeth Favilli & Francesco Cavallo — “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls reinvents fairy tales, inspiring girls with the stories of 100 heroic women from Elizabeth I to Serena Williams. Illustrated by 60 female artists from every corner of the globe, this is a most-funded book in the history of crowd-funding.” — back cover

“Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” by Vashti Harrison — “Beautifully designed and chock-full of information, this is a fantastic survey of black women who made and continue to make history.”―School Library Journal

“Malala: Activist for Girls’ Education” by Raphaele Frier — “In this vibrant picture-book biography, translated from the French, Malala Yousafzai’s courageous story is retold in considerable detail, with nuances and illustrations that highlight the salient people and places in her life. …The story covers Malala’s early activist years, the shooting, her recovery, her speech at the UN, and subsequent efforts to speak up for girls around the world since she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. ..” — Booklist Online

JUVENILE FICTION

“The Assassin’s Curse” by Kevin Sands — “In the third heart-pounding installment of the award-winning Blackthorn Key series, Christopher, Tom, and Sally face new codes, puzzles, and traps as they race to find the hidden treasure before someone else is murdered.” — inside front cover

“Audacity Jones Steals the Show” by Kirby Larson — “Eleven-year-old Audacity (Audacity Jones to the Rescue) and best friend Bimmy venture from Miss Maisie’s School for Wayward Girls with Cypher, now a detective, on a new adventure in NYC. They must stop a plot to sabotage Harry Houdini’s latest illusion: making an elephant disappear. Multiple viewpoints converge to swiftly propel the story forward while historical elements imbue the mystery with an appropriate old-fashioned feel.” —  THE HORN BOOK, c2017.

“Captain Underpants and the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants” by Dav Pilkey — You knew he’d be back. Yes, Captain Underpants, aka Mr. Krupp, principal of the Jerome Horwitz Elementary School, has returned, as have his enablers, students George and Harold. The plot? Suffice it to say Underpants must combat a scientific genius named Professor Pippy P. Poopypants. Poopypants goes mad when the students at Horwitz laugh at his name. (When they find out his middle name is Pee-pee, they get downright hysterical, as will readers, no doubt.) Mixed in with the minimal story is Pilkey’s comic bookstyle artwork; some of the pages even make a ‘cheesy’ flip book to animate the action. Silly, gross-out fun for Captain’s legion of fans.” — Ilene Cooper; AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2000.

“The Evil Wizard Smallbone” by Delia Sherman — Though Fidelou and his crew of biker werewolf minions add some dramatic distraction, it is Nick’s evolution into a young wizard that commands attention. Readers journey with Nick as he stumbles through what was real in his world, his grief at losing his mother, into a magical world that gives him a sense of purpose. Fans of fantasy will be captivated—and hoping for a sequel.” — Kirkus Reviews

“It Ain’t So Awful Falafel” by Firoozeh Dumas – “[A] fresh take on the immigrant experience—authentic, funny, and moving from beginning to end.” —Kirkus Reviews, STARRED review

“Ghosts of Greenglass House” by Kate Milford — “Working on many levels, Milford delivers a head-scratching mystery, an eerie ghost story, hints of romance, and tales within tales that explore the (fictional) history of Nagspeake . . . And when it all comes together at the satisfying climax, readers might go straight back to the beginning to read the book again.” —Horn Book

“Mary Anning’s Curiosity” by Monica Kulling – “…In clean, straightforward prose, Kulling explains how Knight’s interest in and knack for machines was present even at a young age…. Paired with Parkins’s detailed and handsome pen-and-ink illustrations, the book focuses on Knight’s invention of a paper bag-manufacturing machine and her legal fight to protect her creation after her idea was stolen.” — Publishers Weekly 

“The Murderer’s Ape” by Jakob Wegelius — “This may be the most charming book I’ve read all year. It’s a challenge to build a story around a protagonist who can’t speak, and Wegelius does this skillfully, emphasizing qualities that make us human.” — The New York Times Book Review

“Save Me a Seat” by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan — “Used to being the top student, fifth grader Ravi (“fresh off the boat” from Bangalore) is furious when he’s sent to the resource room with Joe (whose auditory processing disorder makes school challenging). Determined to prove his superiority, Ravi befriends bully Dillon, while Joe hopes to get through the day without humiliation at Dillon’s hands. Short chapters alternate between Joe’s and Ravi’s distinctive, engaging voices.” —  THE HORN BOOK, c2016.

“Some Kind of Courage” by Dan Gemeinhart — “Exhilarating and enthralling, Courage promises even the most reluctant readers a breakneck adventure that will keep them turning the pages with utter devotion.” — Booklist, starred review

“Star Wars: Ahoska” by E. K. Johnston — “A great treat for young–and not so young–Star Wars fans that provides a thrilling backstory for a compelling character.”―Kirkus

“Switch” by Ingrid Law — “Law tenderly handles the challenges of having a grandparent with Alzheimer’s, highlighting the power of familial love…Readers will be caught up in this snowy, magical adventure and the characters’ efforts to balance their true, sparkly selves with growing up.”—Booklist

“Vanished! A Framed! Novel” by James Ponti — A splendid whodunit: cerebral, exhilarating, low in violence, methodical in construction, and occasionally hilarious.” —  (Kirkus Reviews, Starred)

“You’re Amazing, Anna Hibiscus!” by Atinuke — “Delightful and vivid…captures how it feels to be any little girl anywhere.” — Julia Eccleshare, The Guardian

JUVENILE NON-FICTION

“Louis Undercover” by Fanny Britt and Isabelle Arsenault — “This nuanced tale of an observant, sensitive boy finding his own brand of strength is bittersweet and beautifully composed.” ―Booklist, starred review

“Smiley: A Journey of Love” by Joanne George — “Smiley was born in a Canadian puppy mill, and like so many other puppy mill dogs, he had already experienced lifelong difficulties. Smiley was born without eyes and with dwarfism, which caused him to have a larger head than most dogs and shorter limbs. George, the author of this book, is a veterinary technician; when she first saw Smiley, she immediately fell in love… Smiley was extremely anxious during his early days with George but she was tenacious in his training. Eventually, Smiley became as a St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog. He visited hospitals, senior homes, and schools to offer comfort and hope to those who needed it. The book contains many attractive color photographs of Smiley. Children will be able to read about the canine’s many problems without feeling sad or depressed about his life.”  — Amy Caldera, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2017.

“Victor Dowd and the World War II Ghost Army” by Enigma Alberti — “Exciting, entertaining, and educational…this unique and clever book is all these things! Middle-grade readers will be captivated by the fascinating history of the Ghost Army and will have a blast deciphering puzzles and clues using the tools provided within the book.” — Word Spelunker

YOUNG ADULT

“Between Shades of Gray” by Ruta Sepetys — “A haunting chronicle, demonstrating that even in the heart of darkness ‘love is the most powerful army.’”–The Horn Book Magazine

“Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds — “Told in short, fierce staccato narrative verse, Long Way Down is a fast and furious, dazzlingly brilliant look at teenage gun violence, as could only be told by Jason Reynolds.” –Amazon

ADULT FICTION

“Cast Iron” by Peter May — “May expertly plants nicely misleading red herrings; every time the reader thinks the plot will fall into predictability, the ground shifts and the direction changes. The end comes as a satisfying surprise, built as it is on clues that were subtly in place all along.”―Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

“Complete Stories” by Kurt Vonnegut — “This book is big in size and significance … Meant to get readers thinking, these stories both preserve a lost world and showcase Vonnegut’s phenomenal prescience. In his foreword, Dave Eggers pinpoints another key trait: Vonnegut wrote “moral stories” meant to “tell us what’s right and what’s wrong, and . . . how to live.” In our time of dangerous ambiguity, Vonnegut’s clarity is restorative, his artistry and imagination affirming.” —Booklist

“The Noel Diary” by Richard Paul Evans — “”A sweet story of working through challenges to finding what seems like an elusive and impossible relationship. Evans also includes a cast of quirky and entertaining supporting characters.” —Deseret News

“Outside is the Ocean” by Matthew Lansburgh — “Spanning years and perspectives, the 15 linked stories in Lansburgh’s ambitious collection, winner of the Iowa Short Fiction Award, reveal the world of a fractured family … Lansburgh has crafted a unique, captivating debut.” – Booklist

“Points North” by Howard Frank Mosher — “Mosher’s lyrical stories, published posthumously, stand as a last testament to his place among the best regional American writers of his day…Mosher’s rich language makes art from both history and the quotidian, from bigotry and courage to fishing flies and brook trout.” – Publishers Weekly

“The Summer That Made Us” by Robyn Carr — “…Carr’s latest instead narrows in on the tangled and intimate bonds of three generations of women in a large family, especially the circumstances that can make or break the strongest relationships. With an abundance of female characters-two sisters marry two brothers and each of the sisters has three daughters (double cousins)-and motivations, the many plotlines, mysteries, and time jumps can be a bit confusing, but the main focus is on family and the last summer they were all together, the one summer at their shared lake house where everything changed. That is the pivot that eventually pulls the threads together into a compelling and deeply satisfying conclusion. “-Charli Osborne, Oak Park P.L., MI.  LJ Xpress Online Review. LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2017.

“Typhoon Fury” by Clive Cussler  — “… opens in the midst of the second battle of Corregidor in 1945. During a U.S. attack on one of the mountainous island’s many caves, Capt. John Hayward, who’s searching for a secret Japanese laboratory, observes that the enemy soldiers who pour out of the cave’s tunnels are furious fighters who don’t drop even when grievously wounded by gunfire. After finding the secret lab, Hayward succeeds in grabbing a file marked Project Typhoon just before the place blows up. In the present, Juan Cabrillo, the captain of the intelligence ship Oregon, is involved in a mission whose object is to find a memory stick containing the names of all Chinese secret agents operating in the U.S. No surprise, Juan’s present-day operation connects to the secret project on Corregidor, and soon he and his crew are fighting to recover thousands of doses of a potent compound that turns men into supersoldiers. Expertly drawn characters and a well-constructed plot make this one of Cussler’s better efforts.” — Agent: Peter Lampack, Peter Lampack Agency. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

BIOGRAPHY

“American Radical: Inside the World of an Undercover Muslim FBI Agent” by Tamer Elnoury — “The author reflects compellingly on the challenges of being a Muslim patriot, and he closes with a plea to resist wholesale bigotry: ‘Banning Muslims from the United States throws gas on the myth that the United States is at war with Islam.’ His tale of infiltration is exciting and clearly written…A worthwhile, unique addition to the shelf of post-9/11 memoirs concerning the fight against terrorism.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Endurance: A Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery” by Scott Kelly — “Kelly brings life in space alive—the wonder and awe of it, and also the jagged edges, the rough parts of living in confined quarters in an alien element, far from everything familiar and beloved. . . . Endurance, with its honest, gritty descriptions of an unimaginable life, a year off Earth, is as close as most readers will come to making that voyage themselves.” —The Financial Times

“Iced In: Ten Days Trapped on the Edge of Antartica” — by Chris Turney — “In 2013, Turney was leading an expedition of scientists off the coast of East Antarctica when their chartered Russian vessel suddenly became trapped in the ice. The hull was breached and steering lost, and the closest vessel, a Chinese ship, soon became trapped as well. Iced In is Turney’s report of those 10 days in the ice when he, his family, the ship’s crew, and the 70 members of the Australasian Antarctic Expedition waited for rescue. …Traveling in the footsteps of the great explorers Ernest Shackleton and Douglas Mawson, Turney draws on records from their journeys, making comparisons between the difficult yet heroic age they lived in (that made them famous) versus his own struggle to raise funds to study what is the most overwhelming global struggle of our time. Ironically, getting stuck in the ice makes Turney famous, a pleasant surprise he also chronicles in this enjoyable armchair adventure.” — Mondor, Colleen. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“The Last Girl: My Story of Captivity, and My Fight Against the Islamic State” by Nadia Murad — “Murad gives us a window on the atrocities that destroyed her family and nearly wiped out her vulnerable community. This is a courageous memoir that serves as an important step toward holding to account those who committed horrific crimes.” —The Washington Post

“Leonardo da Vinci” by Walter Isaacson — “As always, [Isaacson] writes with a strongly synthesizing intelligence across a tremendous range; the result is a valuable introduction to a complex subject. . . . Beneath its diligent research, the book is a study in creativity: how to define it, how to achieve it. . . . Most important, Isaacson tells a powerful story of an exhilarating mind and life.” —The New Yorker

ADULT MYSTERY

“Before It’s Too Late” by Sara Driscoll — “A kidnapper is sending FBI Special Agent Meg Jennings a series of ciphers laying out the location of his victims. The women are left alive but just barely. If Jennings doesn’t find them in time, they will die. The victims are all dog owners, like Jennings, who is devoted to Hawk, her search-and-rescue Labrador. The women also bear a striking physical resemblance to Jennings. With lives on the line, Jennings breaks Bureau protocol and brings in her brilliant sister, Cara, to decode the kidnappers’ twisted clues.” — Keefe, Karen.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Enemy of the State” by Kyle Mills — “Saudi prince Talal bin Musaid, nephew of the ailing King Faisal, is using Saudi money to finance ISIS attacks against the United States. Meanwhile, Aali Nassar, the head of the Saudi General Intelligence Directorate, is undermining the country’s monarchy and actively aiding chief terrorist Mullah Sayid Halabi. The American president, determined that the Saudi perfidy must be stopped, asks CIA officer Mitch to eliminate all high Saudi officials who are acting against the U.S. Mitch forms a small but deadly team, including Claudia Gould, his love interest; Grisha Azarov, the Russian agent who almost killed him in an earlier confrontation; and Kent Black, a U.S. Army sniper turned illegal arms dealer. Series fans and newcomers alike will watch in wonder as Mitch executes a clever plan that leads to an explosive climax.” Agent: Sloan Harris, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“Every Breath You Take” by Mary Higgins Clark — “It is three years after the death of 68-year-old socialite Virginia Wakeling, who took a fatal fall off the roof of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Laurie, the producer of Under Suspicion, a TV show that examines cold cases, is pushed by host Ryan Nichols and studio head Brett Young into exploring it as a possible subject. Laurie has doubts because the case isn’t really old enough to be considered cold, and Ryan, who pitches the idea, is friends with Ivan Gray, Virginia’s boyfriend and the primary suspect. After Laurie listens to Ivan, considers the venue where Virginia was killed (an A-list do at the Met featuring an exhibit of gowns worn by first ladies), and makes a list of other possible suspects, she becomes more interested in proceeding. As Laurie follows a formulaic path to the truth, a constant undercurrent is her fractured romance with the show’s former host, Alex Buckley, and the possibility of repairing it.” —  Agents: Bob Barnett and Deenen Howell, Williams & Connolly. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017

“Execute Authority” by Dalton Fury — “Kolt Raynor and his Delta Force team are assigned by the newly elected U.S. president to a mission in Greece. An assassination attempt leads Raynor to a former colleague who has gone rogue and has a personal vendetta against Raynor. Facing a formidable adversary, Raynor will have to utilize all his skills and break more than a few rules along the way. The action is relentless, and the story rings with authenticity and emotion. Those who enjoy black-ops thrillers will love this one, which works just fine as a stand-alone.” — Ayers, Jeff.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Hellbent” by Gregg Hurwitz — “Hellbent is carved from the same cloth of not only Lee Child, but also David Baldacci, and it proves Hurwitz to be every bit the equal of both of them. This is raw, visceral action writing layered with rare depth and emotion, making Hellbent an early contender for one of the best thrillers of the year.” ―Providence Journal

“Maisie Dobbs” by Jacqueline Winspear — ““A delightful mix of mystery, war story and romance set in WWI–era England . . . A refreshing heroine, appealing secondary characters and an absorbing plot [make Winspear a] writer to watch.” — Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“The Quantum Spy” by David Ignatius — ““Ignatius…demonstrates again his superior storytelling skills. This engrossing tale of spy vs. counterspy rockets back and forth from Washington, DC, to CIA headquarters in Langley, VA, to Beijing. … In this sly, fast-moving story, everyone is hiding something. … Ignatius’s latest is up to his usual high standards and should appeal to all lovers of spy fiction.” — Library Journal

“Righteous: An IQ Novel” by Joe Ide — “Ide’s debut, IQ, was one of last year’s best crime novels, and he follows it with another scorcher. . . . Like the great Thomas Perry, Ide manages to combine light and dark in wholly unpredictable ways, blending comic capering with real-life bloodletting in a manner that diminishes neither and taps a vein of deep emotion lurking amid the laugh lines and spurts of violence. Anyone who loves Perry or Timothy Hallinan needs to hop on Ide’s bandwagon while there’s still room to sit.” — Booklist (starred review)

“Two Kinds of Truth” by Michael Connelly — “Expertly juggling both plots, Connelly mines the double murder for fascinating and frightening details…Connelly remains atop a heap of contemporary crime writers thanks to his rare ability to combine master plotting and procedural detail with a literary novelist’s feel for the inner lives of his or her characters. Both talents are in abundant display this time.”―Booklist

ADULT NON-FICTION

“Ghosts of the Innocent Man: A True Story of Trial and Redemption” by Benjamin Rachlin — “Dramatic and eye-opening . . . A hopeful story . . . By showing us that the specter of wrongful convictions involves flesh-and-blood human beings, Ghost of the Innocent Man confronts us with the cruelest injustices of the criminal justice system, even as it also holds out hope for a more humane future.”―San Francisco Chronicle

“In Search of a Better World: A Human Rights Odyssey” by Payam Akhavan — “With precision and sensitivity, as well as brutal honesty, Payam Akhavan’s In Search of a Better World highlights the complexity of modern conflict and the necessary solutions for our future. It is heartening to see essential tools (such as the Will to Intervene) being offered up in practical and meaningful ways, when so many have turned their back on them, and so, on our responsibilities as global citizens.”― Lieutenant-General Roméo A. Dallaire

“The Oxford Companion to Beer” edited by Garrett Oliver — “”[E]ncyclopedic in scope . . . In putting together the ‘Oxford Companion’ now, Mr. Oliver has captured the blossoming of a global beer culture at a thriving moment. . . . [A] definitive resource not just for beer enthusiasts but for amateur brewers, professional brewers and the thousands of restaurants that serve great beers but are staffed by people who may know little about them. . . . The ‘Oxford Companion’ is simply a wonderful resource for what, even when it’s complex, unusual, unfamiliar or strikingly different, is still just beer, regardless of how it is dressed up.” –Eric Asimov, The New York Times

“Red Famine: Stalin’s War on Ukraine” by Anne Applebaum — “Applebaum chronicles in almost unbearably intimate detail the ruin wrought upon Ukraine by Josef Stalin and the Soviet state apparatus he had built on suspicion, paranoia, and fear . . . Applebaum gives a chorus of contemporary voices to the tale, and her book is written in the light of later history, with the fate of Ukraine once again in the international spotlight and Ukrainians realizing with newly-relevant intensity that, as Red Famine reminds us, ‘History offers hope as well as tragedy.’”
—Steve Donoghue, Christian Science Monitor

“A Rift in the Earth: Art, Memory and the Fight for a Vietnam War Memorial” by James Reston, Jr. — “In A Rift in the Earth, Army veteran James Reston details the controversy surrounding the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial — an undertaking that reopened political, moral and cultural divisions about the war long after its end. Deeply personal, as moving as it is instructive, Reston’s account captures the complicated struggle that ensued over how to honor our Vietnam War veterans, and reminds us that in the decades following that bloody and protracted conflict, a generation of Americans continue to find healing at the powerful memorial in our nation’s capital.”―Senator John McCain

“We Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy” by Ta-Neshisi Coates — “Coates’s collection of his essays from the past decade examine the recurrence of certain themes in the black community, the need for uplift and self-reliance, the debate between liberals and conservatives about the right approach to racism, and the virulent reaction in some quarters to any signs of racial progress. . . . As he charts social changes, Coates also offers a fascinating look at his own transformation as a black man and a writer. Before each essay, Coates provides context in light of recent political developments. . . . Coates’s always sharp commentary is particularly insightful as each day brings a new upset to the cultural and political landscape laid during the term of the nation’s first black president. . . . Coates is a crucial voice in the public discussion of race and equality, and readers will be eager for his take on where we stand now and why.” —Booklist (starred review)

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption” by Stephen King, Read by Frank Muller — “This performance is a masterclass, with Muller demonstrating his ability to build the intensity of the story, fully realize characters, and capture the brooding atmosphere that typifies King’s writing. The story concerns convicted murderer Andy Dufresne and how he survived and escaped Shawshank Prison. It’s narrated by his friend Red, that guy in prison who can get you anything for a price, and, as Red admits at the end, it’s really Red’s story, too. Life is hard at the prison, and Muller’s raw and edgy voice tells us that and more: it’s just as hard on the outside for lifers once they’re paroled. But not for Andy. There’s a lighter note in Muller’s voice as Red tells of Andy’s dream–and where it leads both of them. Muller’s powerful, riveting reading transforms the story, raising it to the sublime.” — Saricks, Joyce. Booklist Online. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

MUSIC

“Honestly” by James Boney

BLUE/DVD

“Beauty and the Beast”
“Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie”
“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”
“The Fate of the Furious”
“Game of Thrones: The Complete Seventh Season”
“Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 2”
“Germans & Jews”
“Lego Batman Movie”
“The Mummy”
“Paw Patrol: The Great Pirate Rescue!”
“Pirates of the Carribean: Dead Men Tell No Tales”
“Spiderman: Homecoming”
“Star Wars: Rebels: Complete Season 3”
“Suicide Squad: Extended Cut”
“This is Us: The Complete First Season”
“Transformers: The Last Knight”
“The Wizard of Lies”
“Wonder Woman”

BOARD BOOK

“The Going to Bed Book” by Sandra Boynton
“The Goodnight Train” by June Sobel
“Inside Noah’s Ark” by Charles Reasoner
“Little Blue Truck Leads the Way” by Alice Schertle
“The Pout-Pout Fish” by Deborah Diesen

KIT

“First Day of Rule” — Read-Along StoryBook and CD

PICTURE BOOK

“After the Fall: How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again” by Dan Santat
“Alphamals A-Z” by Graham Carter
“Animal Book” by Julie Segal-Walters
“A Chair for My Mother” by Vera B. Williams
“Dazzle Ships: World War I and the Art of Confusion” by Chris Barton
“Duck on a Bike” by David Shannon
“Everything About Lemmings” by Anne Dyckman
“Go, Dog. Go!” by P.D. Eastman
“Go Away, Big Green Monster!” by Ed Emberley
“Good Night, Gorilla” by Peggy Rathman
“Henry and the Hidden Treasure” by B. C. R. Fega
“Hey Black Child” by Useni Eugene Perkins
“I Won’t Eat That” by Christopher Silas Neal
“Joseph Had a Little Overcoat” by Simms Taback
“King Bidgood’s in the Bathtub” by Audrey Wood
“Leaf” by Sandra Dieckmann
“The Little House” by Virginia Lee Burton
“Love, Triangle” by Marcie Colleen
“Madeline’s Rescue” by Ludwig Bemelmans
“Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” by John Steptoe
“My Name is Yoon” by Helen Recovits
“No, David” by David Shannon
“Pup and Bear” by Kate Banks
“The Sneetches and Other Stories” by Dr. Seuss
“Tar Beach” by Faith Ringgold
“Where’s Halmoni?” by Julie Kim
“William’s Winter Nap” by Linda Ashman
“Who Am I? An Animal Guessing Game” by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page
“The Wolf, the Duck & the Mouse” by Mac Barnett

JUVENILE AUDIO

“Lemons” by Melissa Savage — “”An enjoyable and comforting middle-grade handbook on navigating new experiences and the heartache of losing loved ones early in life.” —Kirkus Reviews

JUVENILE FICTION

“The Audtion” by Maddie Ziegler — “After her family’s recent move to Florida, Harper tries to settle into her new life, and the first thing on her agenda is finding a new dance studio. Despite having taken lessons since she was two, Harper is incredibly relieved when she is accepted to DanceStarz and lands a place on the Squad, its elite, competitive dance team. But being one of the new girls means trying to break in with the Bunheads, a tight-knit group of dancers that rules the roost. …While the overall story may be predictable–Harper faces mean girls, jealousy, and some embarrassing falls–its focus on friendship and teamwork make it a positive read. The technical aspects about dance are sure to please readers who are dancers or wish to be.” — Thompson, Sarah Bean. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Better off Undead” by James Preller — “After a skateboarding accident leads to his death and inexplicable reanimation, Adrian Lazarus is forced to start seventh grade as a decomposing and slightly smelly zombie. In addition enduring bullying, Adrian is being watched, but he’s not sure by whom or why. Teaming up with his loyal friend Zander, no-nonsense Gia, and budding detective Talal, Adrian sets out to fend off the bullies and figure out who’s behind the surveillance. Preller (The Courage Test) takes the physical and emotional awkwardness of middle school to grisly levels as Adrian worries not about acne or voice changes, but about his nose falling off in class and his desire to “scarf up a dead squirrel from the street.” … Against a near-future backdrop, Preller thoughtfully chronicles the anxieties of middle school, using a blend of comedy and horror to send a message of empowerment and self-acceptance.” — Agent: Rosemary Stimola, Stimola Literary Studio.  PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson — “…this gripping novel offers readers a startlingly provocative view of the Revolutionary War. Isabel Finch, the narrator, and her five-year-old sister, Ruth, are to be freed from slavery upon the death of their mistress in Rhode Island, but the mistress’s unscrupulous heir easily persuades the local pastor to dispense with reading the will. Before long Isabel and Ruth are in New York City, the property of a Loyalist couple, whose abusiveness inspires Isabel to a dangerous course: she steals into the Patriot army camp to trade a crucial Loyalist secret in exchange for passage to Rhode Island for herself and Ruth. But not only does the Patriot colonel fail to honor his promise, he personally hands her over to her Loyalist mistress when she runs away, to face disastrous consequences. Anderson (Speak; Fever 1793) packs so much detail into her evocation of wartime New York City that readers will see the turmoil and confusion of the times, and her solidly researched exploration of British and Patriot treatment of slaves during a war for freedom is nuanced and evenhanded, presented in service of a fast- moving, emotionally involving plot.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2008.

“The Chocopocalypse” by Chris Callaghan — “Callaghan constructs his chilling debut around the revelation of an ancient inscription: the disappeared Chocolati tribe predicted that all the chocolate in the world will vanish on a certain upcoming day. The prospect of such a “cataclysmic cacao catastrophe” understandably touches off widespread panic, binge eating, and riots–particularly in the town of Chompton-on-de-Lyte, a sort of British Hershey, Pennsylvania, where young Jelly Wellington anxiously watches the once ubiquitous treat vanish from every store and warehouse and wonders if the chocopocalypse will really happen. And (brace yourself), it does, as part of a scheme by Garibaldi Chocolati, owner of a local shop selling overpriced “pure” (i.e., unpalatable) artisanal chocolate, to corner the market. But Jelly turns out to be just the sort of curious, quick-thinking sleuth needed to expose the villain. Callaghan doesn’t try very hard to make his titular premise credible, but it’s definitely scary, and along with unwrapping a doughty protagonist, he offers mouthwatering evocations of chocolate’s “meltilicious chocodreaminess.” —. Peters, John. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler” by E. L. Konigsburg — “After reading this book, I guarantee that you will never visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (or any wonderful, old cavern of a museum) without sneaking into the bathrooms to look for Claudia and her brother Jamie. They’re standing on the toilets, still, hiding until the museum closes and their adventure begins. Such is the impact of timeless novels . . . they never leave us. E. L. Konigsburg won the 1967 Newbery Medal for this tale of how Claudia and her brother run away to the museum in order to teach their parents a lesson. Little do they know that mystery awaits.” — Publisher

“Gertie Milk & the Keeper of Lost Things” by Simon Van Booy — “Gertie has suddenly washed up on shore and doesn’t know where or who she is. The only reason she knows her name is because it’s sewn onto her shirt…if it is indeed her shirt. Soon after she meets Kolt, the only other human on the island. Kolt tells Gertie that she is on the island of lost things, and they are both caretakers of those lost things. Kolt begins teaching Gertie the ways of a Keeper when things take a turn for the worst. The enemy of the Keepers shows up and it’s up to Gertie to choose which side is the right one. Booy offers a story that explores good, evil, and those gray areas. Readers learn along with Gertie about this new world, which drives the pacing and suspense….” Rena Gibson, Ralph Ellison Library, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2017.

“The Great Hibernation” by Tara Dairman — “In a small, insular Nordic town with seemingly harmless, quaint traditions, the children find themselves in a police state under a devious and manipulative kid mayor when all the adults suddenly and inexplicably fall into comas. Self-doubting and awkward Jean, 12, knows she must look for allies and uncover the truth…. VERDICT Lighthearted enough to entice readers with the silly premise and whimsical illustrations sprinkled throughout, this middle grade book nonetheless explores some rather important political ideas about individuality and the need for a balance of powers in governance.”– Rhona Campbell, Georgetown Day School, Washington, DC.  SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2017.

“Greetings from Witness Protection” by Jake Burt — “What do you get when you mix a snarky city girl with a shady past and lightning reflexes with a seemingly typical suburban family she’s just met? A funny, action-packed novel about the trials of school, parental arguments, and sibling rivalry―all with a dash of high-stakes thrills and dramatic showdowns… [Readers] will relish the action and fast-paced plot as well as the engaging and competent Nicki, whose emotional strength and quick wits carry her through much of the narrative.”–School Library Journal

“The Lost Frost Girl” by Amy Wilson — “Similar to Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series, Wilson’s debut nicely blends reality and fantasy into an entertaining read. Wilson brings the fairy tale individuals to life while maintaining a delightful combination of realism and fantasy. A promising first novel.” (Booklist)

“Now is Everything: A Novel” by Amy Giles — “Giles’ debut is impeccably paced with deep, well-rounded characters that propel the reader through…a story that is relatable and emotionally investing. Once readers pick up Hadley’s story, they will have difficulty putting it down, desperately rooting for her to win. An admirably crafted debut that will haunt readers.” –-Booklist (starred review)

“The Nutcracker Mice” by Kristin Kladstrup — “In 1892 Saint Petersburg, Irina’s father is chief custodian for the Mariinsky Theatre, tasked with solving the theater’s mouse problem before the Nutcracker’s Christmastime debut. While her mother sews costumes, Irina makes clothes in miniature for her doll. Meanwhile, under the stage, the Mariinsky mouse corps de ballet members, including plucky Esmeralda, are rehearsing their own Nutcracker. At Esmeralda’s urging, the show has been reworked without all the mouse-bashing, and for the first time will include costumes (remember Irina’s doll clothes?). Irina’s and Esmeralda’s story lines are individually engaging, and their overlapping moments are warmhearted. Copious illustrations (seen only as sketches) enhance both mouse and human worlds.” —  elissa gershowitz. THE HORN BOOK, c2017.

“The Peculiar Incident on Shady Street” by Lindsay Currie — “Moving during the school year is a drag, especially when it entails leaving your friends and the beaches of Florida for the chilly North….  As soon as the family moves into their new (old) house, something makes its presence known through cold winds, a color-changing painting, mysterious drawings in Tessa’s sketch pad, and the sound of crying at night. After mentioning at school that her house is haunted, Tessa finds herself surrounded by friends who want to help: Andrew, a totally cute and friendly soccer player; Nina, who’s obsessed with Chicago’s famous cemeteries and their residents; and Nina’s twin brother, Richie, who is afraid of ghosts. As they unravel a decades-old mystery, Tessa learns that her new city isn’t so bad after all, and that working together can result in friendship. A perfect flashlight read, Currie’s debut novel is peppered with incidents that will make the reader’s skin crawl and teeth chatter.” — Fredriksen, Jeanne. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Penelope March is Melting” by Lindsau Currie — “”Fast-paced action scenes make this a good choice for reluctant readers as well as book-devourers like Penelope. A clever, female-led adventure about saving your home and finding yourself. Hand to fans of Chris Grabenstein and Natalie Lloyd.”–Booklist

“The Real McCoys” by Matthew Swanson — Swanson and Behr …track a delightfully topsy-turvy day at Tiddlywhump Elementary in this heavily illustrated and impressively designed story. Their heroine is the hugely self-confident and aptly named Moxie McCoy, a 10-year-old aspiring sleuth inspired by an intrepid fictional detective. As the novel unfolds, Moxie interviews candidates to replace a best friend who moved away, attempts to identify the person who stole school mascot Eddie the Owl, and expects to clinch the award given to the student “who has best lived up to Eddie’s ideals of courage, patience, and wisdom.” Quick to judge and jump to conclusions, she doesn’t mince words: a pair of twins vying for the award “are about as lovable as the bumps on the end of an alligator’s nose.” Snappy analogies, similes, and double entendres play out in Behr’s energetic illustrations, a rambunctious jumble of cartoons, fonts, and dialogue balloons. At the heart of the story is Moxie’s deepening rapport with her bookish younger brother, Max, and readers will hope to see more of both siblings soon.” — Agent: Meredith Kaffel Simonoff, DeFiore and Co. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“Rickshaw Girl” by Mitali Perkins — “… the lively contemporary story of a young Bangladeshi girl who challenges the traditional role of women in her village so that she can help her struggling family in hard times. Naima’s parents cannot afford to pay school fees for her anymore, but she wins the village prize for painting the best traditional ‘alpana’ patterns. She wishes she could help her father drive his rickshaw, and one day, disguised as a boy, she drives– and crashes–it. How will they afford to fix the dents and tears? More than just a situation, this short chapter book tells a realistic story with surprises that continue until the end. Hogan’s bold black-and-white sketches show the brave girl, the beautiful traditional ‘alpana’ painting and rickshaw art, and the contemporary changes in the girl’s rural home.” — Hazel Rochman.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2006.

“Saturdays with Hitchcock” by Ellen Wittlinger — “Maisie, 12, is in the midst of several quandaries. She and her best friend, Cy, have become a trio, and Maisie is afraid that new addition Gary Hackett likes her. Then it becomes clear that Cy likes Gary. Ménage à trouble! In addition, Maisie’s actor uncle has moved back to their small house to recover from an accident, her grandmother is showing signs of dementia, and her mother loses her job. Tensions boil, but Maisie finds relief at the old movie theater in town, where she and Cy are regulars. The theater is owned by grumpy Mr. Schmitz, who has had his own decades-long crush—on Maisie’s grandmother. If this sounds like a full plate, it is, but each morsel is quite tasty, and veteran writer Wittlinger balances plots with aplomb. Some scenarios are more rosy than realistic, as in the cases of Cy’s coming out to an unruffled Gary. Yet it is the novel’s hopeful aspects that make this such an enjoyable read. Happily, all the (many) movies referenced throughout are listed at the book’s conclusion. —Booklist

“The Secret of Nightingale Wood” by Lucy Strange —  “In an imaginative, compelling first-person narration, Henry wraps her story in fairy tales, exposing her guilt, grief, isolation, and fear as she unravels the stunning secrets of Nightingale Wood.” — Kirkus, starred review

“Starry River of the Sky” by Grace Lin — “Lin returns to Chinese folklore as the foundation for this masterfully told tale. Rendi, a runaway with a shadowy past, mistakenly lands at a remote inn and is taken on as chore boy. Plagued by moans he alone hears issuing nightly from the sky, perplexed by the absence of the moon, and longing to escape the unhappy villagers, Rendi is unwillingly drawn into their problems when wise, enigmatic Madame Chang arrives. Lin’s signature device of interspersing the plot with stories told by various characters enriches this story on many levels, especially when Rendi, pressured by Madame Chang, begins to tell his own revealing stories…. The lively mix of adventure, mystery, and fantasy, supported by compelling character development and spellbinding language, will captivate a wide swath of readers.” — Agent: Rebecca Sherman, Writers House. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2012.

JUVENILE NON-FICTION

“Asterix and Cleopatra” by Rene Goscinny — A cartoon drawn with such supreme artistry, and a text layered with such glorious wordplay, satire and historical and political allusion that no reader should ever feel like they’ve outgrown it.―TIME OUT

“Biometrics: Your Body and the Science of Security” by Maria Birmingham — “From fingerprints to voice, tongue, and even odor recognition, Birmingham explores the ways our identities are being linked to unique physical features or behaviors… May spur young readers into taking care with their IDs and personal information.” (Kirkus)

“The Bossy Gallito” retold by Lucia M. Gonzalez — “A Cuban folktale, relayed here in both Spanish and English, features a rooster on his way to a wedding.” — Publisher’s Weekly

“The Elephant Keeper: Caring for Orphaned Elephants in Zambia” by Margriet Ruurs — “Following his father’s death, Aaron, a Zambian teen, works at a hotel to support his family. One morning, he spots a baby elephant in the hotel pool and saves it from drowning, in spite of villagers who tell Aaron that the elephants eat their crops and kill humans. Aaron visits the elephant, now named Zambezi, at an elephant orphanage and convinces the calf to take a bottle. All at once, a new friendship, career, and lifelong passion are born. Readers will be fascinated by the facts about elephants, the dire straits the species is in, and that Aaron is a real person still working at the Lilayi Elephant Sanctuary. …” Linsenmeyer, Erin.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“I’m Just No Good at Rhyming and Other Nonsense for Mischievous Kids and Immature Grown-Ups” by Chris Harris — “Those who claim to hate poetry will enjoy this riotous compilation…. Fans of Ogden Nash, Shel Silverstein, and Jack Prelutsky will rejoice in finding another member of their gang. Smith matches Harris’s wit with his own zaniness…. A surefire winner for reading aloud or for snickering with under the covers.”―School Library Journal, starred review

“Let the Children March” by Monica Clark-Robinson — “Clark-Robinson’s stirring debut unfolds through the resolute voice of a (fictional) African-American girl participating in the 1963 Children’s Crusade…The narrator’s conclusion, “Our march made the difference,” serves as a powerful reminder for today’s readers about their own ability to fight for justice and equality.” — Publisher’s Weekly

“Poison: Deadly Deeds, Perilous Professions and Murderous Medicines” by Sarah Albee — “Once the convulsing bodies and pools of vomit are cleared away, readers will find a tantalizing history of poisons,…Clearly stating that this is not a how-to guide, she swiftly moves through the eras of human history, from prehistory to modern times, not only highlighting popular poisons and poisoners but also the social conditions and level of scientific knowledge defining each age. Unsurprisingly, murderous royalty occupy many pages–poisoned enema, anyone?–but so do commoners, who were often victims of hazardous jobs (e.g., Radium Girls), adulterated food, poisonous medicines, and toxic dyes. Chapters are short and boast reader-friendly layouts with cartoon illustrations, archival photos and advertisements, and an array of boxed content. This includes frequent “Tox Boxes” that call out specific poisons and their effects; “Poisoned or Not?” asides featuring dubious deaths; dangerous professions, such as painters, hat makers, and match makers; and “Drop Dead Gorgeous” notes on toxic beauty treatments. While there are shocking and disgusting facts aplenty, Albee also discusses the rise of toxicology and forensic science, and the much-needed emergence of food and drug regulation. Her light tone makes this morbid, well-researched study a sinister indulgence.” — Smith, Julia. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“The Quilts of Gee’s Bend” by Susan Goldman Rubin — “Rubin …tells the story of a folk art form passed down through generations in a small corner of the Deep South. Descended from the enslaved and, later, tenant farmers, the women quilters of Gee’s Bend, Ala., create unique variations of traditional patterns. Their vibrant handiwork sits in stark contrast to archival photographs of the quilters’ hardscrabble surroundings. The women’s expressions are proud, their settings meager–a 1937 photograph shows a room wallpapered in newsprint to keep out drafts. Rubin traces the quilters’ history alongside their struggle for civil rights and a steadily improving quality of life. When the women’s art is “discovered” by outsiders and becomes sought after, the results weren’t always welcome. Numerous quotations allow the women to tell their story: “A lot of people make quilts for your bed,” says Mensie Lee Pettway. “But a quilt is more. It represents safekeeping, it represents beauty, and you could say it represents family history.” An epilogue, source notes, bibliography, index, and brief quilting how-to wrap up a celebration of fellowship and ingenuity.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

YOUNG ADULT

“Being Fishkill” by Ruth Lehrer  –A desperately sad story of profound abuse is softened somewhat by the highly intelligent Duck-Duck and her loving mother. But neither love nor grief is linear. Fishkill’s guilt, anger, and abandonment only intensify as the story unfolds, leaving her desperate and unsure where to turn…Abuse is eclipsed by love in this moving novel.
—Kirkus Reviews

“Far From the Tree” by Robin Benway — “Equally heartwarming and heart-wrenching… Benway (Emmy & Oliver) delves into the souls of these characters as they wrestle to overcome feelings of inadequacy, abandonment, and betrayal, gradually coming to understand themselves and each other.” (Publishers Weekly (starred review))

“The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic” by Leigh Bardugo — “Elegantly crafted…stylishly intricate illustrations…all fans of the darker side of folktales and folktale-like stories will find the stories satisfyingly full of pain, danger, and vengeance.” ―The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review

“Lighter Than My Shadow” by Katie Green — “Green looks back at a long struggle with anorexia in this hard-hitting graphic memoir…. Childhood fears led Green to develop rituals and routines to feel safe, which began to affect her eating habits (“Chew four times on the left… four times on the right… then two sips of water”). As Green grew into a teenager, these rituals–combined with her academic rigor and a barrage of offhand comments about her body–evolved into a focus on control and discipline in her eating, leading to extreme weight loss and professional intervention after she passes out at school. Minimal dialogue and narration keep the focus on Green’s grayscale artwork, which viscerally reflects how Green saw herself while in the grips of her eating disorder. Her body appears grotesquely distended in some scenes, she imagines slicing her thighs thinner with a cleaver in others; a scribbly black cloud is a constant presence, reflecting the inner voices she can’t escape. As the story moves into Green’s college years and beyond, she finds balance amid many setbacks but never sugarcoats the difficult and ongoing nature of recovery.”  — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“The Names They Gave Us” by Emery Lord — “Lord explores the hardships in both Lucy’s life and the lives of the people around her without forgetting about the joys of ordinary life, summer love, and the pitfalls of growing up, all the while offering a beautiful, all-to-rare portrait of a religion that accepts instead of condemns. Comfortingly familiar, vibrant, and, at times, wrenching…” — starred review, Booklist

ADULT FICTION

“Any Dream Will Do” by Debbie Macomber — “Emotional, romantic and inspirational, the latest novel from romance maven Macomber is a must read! . . . Shay’s journey is one of courage, and there’s something in her story for every reader.”—RT Book Reviews

“The Baker’s Secret” by Stephen P. Kiernan — ”Nothing is more audacious or more inspiring than the human spirit, as we well see Stephen Kiernan’s luminous new novel, The Baker’s Secret. . . . Emma is an unforgettable heroine, and Kiernan’s novel will have you weeping, and then cheering. A tale beautifully, wisely, and masterfully told.” –Paula McLain, author of The Paris Wife and Circling the Sun

“Before We Were Yours” by Lisa Wingate — “A powerful tale of family, of sisters, of secrets kept and secrets shared. I absolutely loved this book. I’m still basking in the afterglow, in shock at the true-crime elements, in awe at the journey of these characters who seem to have immortal souls.”—Jamie Ford, New York Times bestselling author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

“The Boat Runner” by Devin Murphy – “A stellar account of wartime sacrifice, loss, and suspense…Jacob’s final salvation is satisfying and inspiring. As one character says, ‘It’s the incidents we can’t control that make us who we are.’”  —  (Publishers Weekly) 

“The City Always Wins” by Omar Robert Hamilton — “Omar Robert Hamilton’s The City Always Wins is a vivid, powerful portrait of Egypt’s failed revolution in 2011. Through the eyes of Mariam and Khalil, two young people fighting at the front lines of the revolution in the streets of Cairo and its political underground, The City Always Wins is an urgent and relevant work that captures the realities of class friction, war, torture, and dictatorships.” ―Jarry Lee, Buzzfeed

“A Column of Fire” by Ken Follett — “A fiery tale set in the latter half of the sixteenth century . . . As always, Follett excels in historical detailing, transporting readers back in time with another meaty historical blockbuster.” —Booklist

“Dark Chapter” by Winnie M Li — “This debut, based on true events, is a thoughtful, empathetic portrayal of the challenges rape victims face when seeking justice.” –Booklist

“A Farewell to Arms” by Ernest Hemingway –“The greatest novel to emerge from Word War 1,  A Farewell to Arms cemented Hemingway’s reputation as one of the most important novelists of the twentieth century…” inside front cover

“The Heart’s Invisible Furies” By John Boyne — “A big, sweeping novel…Cyril’s intelligent, witty voice takes us all the way through to the end of his life. The Heart’s Invisible Furies is a brilliant, moving history of an Irishman, and of modern Ireland itself.” — Minneapolis Star Tribune

“A Legacy of Spies” by John Le Carre — ““Any reader who knows le Carré’s earlier work, and quite a few who don’t, will assume that any attempt to second-guess the mandarins of the Service will backfire. The miracle is that the author can revisit his best-known story and discover layer upon layer of fresh deception beneath it.” — Kirkus

“Look Homeward, Angel” by Thomas Wolfe — “Look Homeward, Angel is one of the most important novels of my life. . . . It’s a wonderful story for any young person burning with literary ambition, but it also speaks to the longings of our whole lives; I’m still moved by Wolfe’s ability to convey the human appetite for understanding and experience.” — Elizabeth Kostova, author of The Historian

“Serenity Harbor” by RaeAnne Thayne — “”This quirky, funny, warmhearted romance will draw readers in and keep them enthralled to the last romantic page.” — Library Journal

“The Story of a New Name” by Elena Ferrante — “An engrossing, wildly original contemporary epic about the demonic power of human (and particularly female) creativity checked by the forces of history and society.” —The Los Angeles Review of Books

“This Is How It Begins” by Joan Dempsey — “In this remarkable novel, Joan Dempsey brings together contemporary America and Holocaust-era Warsaw to tell a riveting tale of family secrets, civil rights, and the persistence of memory. Here are pastors and politicians, teachers and activists, historians and spies—all of them, on every side of the cultural divide, imbued with genuine humanity. This Is How It Begins is an essential story for our time.” —Matthew Goodman, New York Times-bestselling author of Eighty Days: Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland’s History-Making Race Around the World

“We Were Witches” by Ariel Gore — “A scathing indictment of a system that works again people who are poor and female as well as a piercing and wise look at one woman’s struggle to overcome it.” —Booklist

BIOGRAPHY

“From Prague to Jerusalem: An Uncommon Journey of a Journalist” by Milan J. Kubic — “Kubic presents his interesting journey from youth behind the iron curtain through a long and successful career with Newsweek culminating in extended coverage of the Middle East debacle. The memoir illuminates myriad important historical events on three continents over the course of about a quarter century of Kubic’s eventful journalistic career and contains many thought-provoking insights. The insider’s account of the Arab-Israeli conflict is especially valuable.”
—Walter L. Hixson, author of American Foreign Relations: A New Diplomatic History

“Obama: The Call of History” by Peter Baker — “With his unique gifts as a diligent journalist and a first-rate historian, Peter Baker has given us a compelling first look at a consequential presidency—an eight-year reign that will be studied forever. And here is where we will all start that conversation: with Baker’s graceful and insightful account of Barack Obama’s victories, defeats, and evolving legacy.” — (Jon Meacham, author of Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush)

“What Happened” — Hillary Rodham Clinton -“The writing in What Happened is engaging — Clinton is charming and even funny at times, without trying to paint herself in too flattering of a light…. Ultimately, the book might be a historical artifact most of all — the chronicling of what, exactly, it was like to run for president as the first woman major-party candidate (and, yes, a Clinton as well). Plenty may disagree with Clinton’s opinions on what went wrong for her, but her story will still be an important part of that history when America looks back on the melee that was the 2016 election.” —NPR

ADULT MYSTERY

“Close to Home” by Robert Dugoni — ““An immensely—almost compulsively—readable tale…A crackerjack mystery.” —Booklist (starred review)

“Glass Houses” by Louise Penny — “Penny’s poetic style of writing and her deeply realized characters, with their mix of flaws and heroism, make her novels irresistible….Penny delicately explores the tension of an officer who may be sworn to uphold the law, but who feels compelled to do something else, in a fascinating novel that is sure to appeal to a variety of readers―whether they typically enjoy mysteries or not.” ―ShelfAwareness

“The Gloaming” by Melanie Finn -“A propulsive literary thriller. Finn, who writes with a psychological acuity that rivals Patricia Highsmith’s, switches between Europe and Africa in tense alternating chapters, rewarding close attention. The book is terrific… subtle and thrilling. Remarkably well-paced and well-written… Don’t expect to be able to set this book down or forget its haunted characters.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred

“The Good Daughter” by Karin Slaughter — “Though this is a crime novel, suspenseful and thrilling in every way, at its heart it is an exploration of family and the ties that persist through the most difficult moments… Slaughter delves into our darkest selves to reveal what is truly human.” — (Library Journal)

“I Am Death (A Robert Hunter Thriller)” by Christ Carter — “…a detective in the LAPD’s two-man Ultra Violent Crimes unit is trying to track down an especially sadistic murderer. How sadistic, you ask? Well, one of the killer’s victims died by having her face literally sanded off (by an electric sanding machine). Another, the book’s first victim, was apparently killed by being hung upside down, a slow and torturous way to die. Oh, and that victim also had a note shoved down her throat reading: I AM DEATH. Who is the killer, and what is the motive? The Hunter thrillers are popular with their fans, but, surprisingly, not widely known….Carter has realistically drawn characters, psychological terror, and clever plotting. Here’s hoping Carter’s latest brings new readers into the fold.” — Pitt, David. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“A Killer Harvest” by Paul Cleaves –“Starting with a macabre setup, Cleave keeps upping the stakes till any scrap of plausibility is left far behind and only an increasingly effective series of hair-raising thrills remains.” — (Kirkus Reviews)

“Murder Games” by James Patterson — “Publisher Annotation: A serial killer is loose on the streets of Manhattan. His victims appear to be total strangers. The only clue that unites the crimes is the playing card left behind at each scene that hints at the next target. The killer, known in the tabloids as The Dealer, is baiting cops into a deadly and scandalous guessing game that has the city increasingly on edge. Elizabeth Needham, the gorgeous, tenacious cop in charge of the case turns to an unlikely ally–Dylan Reinhart, a handsome and brilliant professor whose book turned up in connection with the murders. As the tabloid frenzy over The Dealer reaches a fever pitch, Dylan and Elizabeth must connect the clues to discover what the victims have in common before The Dealer runs through his entire deck.”

“Paradise Valley” by C. J. Box — “[Box has] crafted fascinating characters and put them in riveting, challenging circumstances that test their mettle and threaten their worlds.” ―The Durango Herald

“Secrets in Death” by J.D. Robb – “Someone finally found a permanent way to silence gossip reporter Larinda Mars: they murdered her. Unfortunately, Larinda’s killer didn’t realize that NYPSD Lieutenant Eve Dallas was at the same upscale wine bar in which Larinda whispered her last salacious secret. Larinda might have liked to style herself a “social information reporter,” but Eve quickly discovers she was nothing but a mercenary gossip who had been blackmailing an A-list of New York’s movers and shakers. Now, with the help of her professional crew and her husband, Roarke, Eve must sift through her list of suspects to find out which one of them finally got tired of paying Larinda hush money…” — Charles, John.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“What’s Become of Her” by Deb Caletti – “National Book Award finalist Caletti (He’s Gone) elevates reader discomfort to the maximum in this nuanced suspense novel. Compassionate, kindhearted Isabelle Austen is still processing several significant life changes–the death of her difficult mother; leaving her editorial job at a small press to assume ownership of her mother’s charter airline business on Parrish Island, Wash.; and the end of her marriage–when Henry North, a professor on sabbatical from Boston University, arrives on the island. Despite internal and external warning bells and potential omens of danger, Isabelle responds to the narcissistic Henry’s romantic overtures. Meanwhile, across the Pacific, the mysterious Professor M. Weary divides his time between studying the habits of New Caledonia crows and monitoring Henry. Warnings Isabelle receives from Dr. Weary cause her to wonder about Henry, whose first wife died in an accident and whose second wife has gone missing. The plot builds to a surprising and well-developed conclusion.” –Agent: Ben Camardi, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

ADULT NON-FICTION

“Fetch: How a Bad Dog Brought Me Home” by Nicole J. Georges  – “Fetch is beautiful. Georges’s artwork is inviting and frank as she tells a touching story of companionship and personal growth. A dog pack of two, she and Beija form a special bond, a friendship that hits home.” —Shelf Awareness

“Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow” by Yuval Noah Harari  — “Harari is an intellectual magpie who has plucked theories and data from many disciplines – including philosophy, theology, computer science and biology – to produce a brilliantly original, thought-provoking and important study of where mankind is heading.” –(Evening Standard (London))

“The Jersey Brothers: A Missing Naval Officer in the Pacific and his Family’s Quest to Bring Him Home” by Sally Mott Freeman — “In her moving new epic The Jersey Brothers, Sally Mott Freeman captures a story of love, devotion and perseverance shared by three inspiring siblings caught in the epicenter of some of the war’s most crucial actions… A rare look into the deepest personal emotions of a family of America’s Greatest Generation.” — The Dallas Morning News

“No Apparent Distress: A Doctor’s Coming-of-Age on the Front Lines of American Medicine” by Rachel Pearson, MD – “Engrossing….Pearson’s vivid writing sometimes lulls you into the trance of a good story―character, voice, plot, conflict―but there’s always the sucker punch at the end to remind you of the gruesome endpoint of the American healthcare system….Her literary skill is apparent in her book. Her courage, honesty and doggedness are evident on every page.”
– Danielle Ofri, New York Times Book Review

“The Unwomanly Face of War: An Oral History of Women in World War II” by Svetlana Alexievich “A monument to courage . . . It would be hard to find a book that feels more important or original. . . . Alexievich’s account of the second world war as seen through the eyes of hundreds of women is an extraordinary thing. . . . Her achievement is as breathtaking as the experiences of these women are awe-inspiring.”—The Guardian

“The Vietnam War: An Intimate History” by Geoffrey C. Ward and Ken Burns — “A sweeping, richly illustrated narrative of a conflict fast retreating in memory… As they have done in numerous collaborations, Ward and Burns take a vast topic and personalize it… Of particular value is the inclusion of Vietnamese voices on both sides of the conflict, most of whom agree more than four decades later that the question of who won or lost is less important than the fact that no one really prevailed… The text is accompanied by more than 500 photographs, some of them immediately recognizable…many others fresh… Accompanying the PBS series to be aired in September 2017, this is an outstanding, indispensable survey of the Vietnam War.”  —Kirkus, (starred review)

“We Crossed a Bridge and It Trembled: Voices from Syria” by Wendy Pearlman — “Pearlman spoke with hundreds of displaced Syrians…. Common among the spare and haunting testimonies of these mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters are the loss and reappearance of hope, humanity, and dreams of new freedom. This powerfully edifying work of witness is essential reading.” — Booklist (starred review)

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Commanches,the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History” by S. C. Gwynne — “Man for man, the Comanches were the fiercest and most resourceful warriors in North America, and they held onto their domain with an almost otherworldly tenacity. In this sweeping work, S.C. Gwynne recreates the Comanche’s lost world with gusto and style—and without sentimentality. After reading Empire of the Summer Moon, you’ll never think about Texas, or the Great Plains, in quite the same way again.” –Hampton Sides, author of Blood and Thunder and Hellhound On His Trail

MUSIC

“You Want it Darker” by Leonard Cohen

BLUE/DVD

“All Governments Lie”
“The Game of Thrones: The Complete Third Season”
“The Game of Thrones: The Complete 6th Season”
“How to Train Your Dragon”
“Smurfs: The Lost VIllage”
“The Vietnam War: Volume One”
“The Vietnam War: Volume Two”
“The Walking Dead: The Complete First Season”

BOARD BOOK

“The Monster at the End of this Book: Starring  Lovable, Furry Old Grover” by Jon Stone
“So Many Feet” by Nichole Mara
“Little Blue Truck” by Alice Schertle
“Welcome” A Mo Willems Book for New Arrivals” by Mo Willems

PICTURE BOOK

“All the Way to Havana” by Margarita Engle
“The Antlered Ship” by Dashka Slater
“The Bad Seed” by Jory John
“Bertolt” by Jacques Goldstyn
“Come With Me” by Holly M. McGhee
“Creepy Pair of Underwear” by Aaron Reynolds
“A Different Pond” by Bao Phi
“Flashlight Night” by Matt Forrest Esenwine
“The Forever Garden” by Laurel Snyder
“Frog and Toad Are Friends” by Arnold Lobel
“Hector the Collector” by Emily Beeny
“Hello Goodbye Dog” by Maria Gianferrari
“In the Middle of Fall” by Kevin Henkes
“La La La” by Kate DiCamillo
“The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors” by Drew Daywalt
“Life” by Cynthia Rylant
“LIttle Red and the Very Hungry Lion” by Alex T. Smith
“Meanwhile Back at the Ranch” by Anne Isaacs
“Monster’s Trucks” by Joy Keller
“The One-Day House” by Julia Durango
“The Paper Bag Princess” by Robert Munsch
“Pink and Say” by Patricia Polacco
“Princess Truly in I am Truly” by Kelly Greenawalt
“Renato and the Lion” by Barbara DeLorenzo
“Robinson” by Peter Sis
“You Must Bring a Hat!” by Simon Philip
“When’s My Birthday?” by Julie Fogliano
“You Must Bring a Hat!” by Simon Philip

JUVENILE AUDIO

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“Dangerous Jane” by Suzanne Slade – “An inspiring testament to the power of activism.… An afterword and timeline round out a solid introduction to a woman who ‘kept doing what she’d always done: helping people. No matter where they were from. No matter what others thought. No matter the cost.'” —Publisher’s Weekly

“Marti’s Song For Freedom =Marti y sus versos por la libertad” by Emma Otheguy — “Otheguy debuts with a bilingual story, written in gentle and measured verse, about activist José Martí, detailing his efforts to free Cuba from Spanish rule and its people from slavery by disseminating pamphlets and writing for newspapers. After being jailed and exiled to New York, Martí continued his campaign to liberate the Cuban people while finding solace in the Catskills: the grass grew wild/ and seemed to whisper/ that Cuba still needed him. Vidal (Little Bek Longtail Learns to Sleep) uses a subtle folk art style in her detailed gouache illustrations, creating people who resemble terra-cotta figurines. Excerpts from Martí s Versos sencillos thoughtfully underscore this moving account of his crusade for justice.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

“She Persisted” by Chelsea Clinton –“Exemplary . . . This well-curated list will show children that women’s voices have made themselves emphatically heard.” —Booklist 

JUVENILE FICTION

“Almost Paradise” by Corabel Shofner – “One undersized but indomitable tomboy tackles tough issues with wry humor as she attempts to create the home and family for which she yearns . . . Idiosyncratic characters and plot twists and turns keep the story going, but it is Ruby’s distinctive voice that shines in this debut novel and makes even the most far-fetched twist seem trustworthy. Ruby’s folksy precociousness and determination are as endearing as her realization that the world is not perfect and that love comes in pieces. . . . a rollicking read.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Bronze and Sunflower” by Cao Wenxuan –“In Wang’s translation of his leisurely, languid prose, Hans Christian Andersen winner Cao captures both the infinite joys and harsh realities of rural farming life…While seemingly idealized, the story and its protagonists reflect the Confucian values of filial piety and society above self—the very foundation of Chinese culture. Readers of all ages should be prepared to laugh, cry, and sigh with satisfaction.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“The Emperor’s Ostrich” by Julie Berry — “Berry…creates a lively, magic-laced folktale featuring a self-centered emperor, a dairymaid, a farmer boy with grand romantic ideals, and two very stubborn animals…. Whimsical details, including an enchanted map and a pot of mustard that changes flavor, will delight readers, and the nonstop action will keep them on the edge of their seats.” Agent: Alyssa Eisner Henkin, Trident Media Group.PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“The Mysteries of Harris Burdick” by Chris Van Allsburg – “Layered in mystery, this extraordinary book will stun imaginative readers of all ages.” School Library Journal, Starred

“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas — “Angie Thomas’s searing debut about an ordinary girl in extraordinary circumstances addresses issues of racism and police violence with intelligence, heart and unflinching honesty.” — inside front cover

“The House at Pooh Corner” by A. A. Milne – “Return to the Hundred Acre Wood in A.A. Milne’s second collection of Pooh stories, The House at Pooh Corner. Here you will rediscover all the characters you met in Winnie-the-Pooh: Christopher Robin, Eeyore, Owl, Piglet, Kanga, tiny Roo, and, of course, Pooh himself. Joining them is the thoroughly bouncy and lovable Tigger, who leads the rest into unforgettable adventures.” — Amazon.com

“Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell — “Winner of the 1961 Newbery Medal, Island of the Blue Dolphins  tells the story of a girl left alone for eighteen years in the aftermath of violent encounters with Europeans on her home island off the coast of Southern California. ” — ONIX annotations

“Karma Khullar’s Mustache” by Krisit Wientge — “Debut author Wientge neatly captures how it feels to be different, especially as an adolescent . . . The novel’s ending—hopeful but not completely happily-ever-after—sends a strong message of self-acceptance and resilience.” (Publishers Weekly June 5, 2017)

“Macy McMillan and the Rainbow Goddess” by Shari Green –“Macy is fed up with all the changes impinging upon her: she’s finishing sixth grade and will have to move on to a new school and a new sign language interpreter; her mother is getting married to Alan, who already has two young daughters; and her house is now up for sale. In a fit of pique, Macy alienates her best friend–and consequently feels even more disgruntled and isolated. But then Macy’s mother sends her next door to help their elderly neighbor Iris, who’s packing up to move to an assisted living facility. Iris’s words of wisdom and propensity for communicating through cookies… bring Macy solace and understanding as she learns to celebrate the story of her own peculiar family. Green’s free verse makes this a quick, accessible read, focusing on Macy’s realistic reluctance to share her mother and her gradual acceptance of the changes in her life … Macy’s deafness is a feature but not the focus of this gently didactic, sympathetic rendering of a twelve-year-old’s angst.” —  deirdre f. baker. THE HORN BOOK, c2017.

“Patina” by Jason Reynolds — “Reynolds tells readers almost all they need to know about Patty in two opening, contrasting scenes. In the first, Patty misjudges her competitors in an 800-meter race she’s certain she should have won. Running well but second is not enough for the ferociously competitive Patty. In the other, she braids her little sister’s hair before church, finishing off each of Maddy’s 30 braids with three beads. She does this every Sunday because their white adoptive mother can’t (“there ain’t no rule book for white people to know how to work with black hair”) and because their birth mother insists they look their best for church. Their father dead and their birth mother’s legs lost to diabetes, the two girls live with their father’s brother and his wife, seeing their mother once a week in an arrangement that’s as imperfect as it is loving and necessary. Writing in Patty’s voice, Reynolds creates a fully dimensional, conflicted character whose hard-earned pragmatism helps her bring her relay team together, negotiate the social dynamics of the all-girls, mostly white private school she attends, and make the best of her unusual family lot. When this last is threatened, readers will ache right alongside her.” —  KIRKUS MEDIA LLC, c2017.

“Refugee” by Alan Gratz —  “[A] hard-hitting novel. . . . Filled with both tragic loss and ample evidence of resilience, these memorable and tightly plotted stories contextualize and give voice to current refugee crises, underscoring that these journeys are born out of a desperate need for security and safety.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

“The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade” by Jordan Sonnenblick — “Maverick Falconer has a difficult home life. Since his father died on active military duty several years ago, his alcoholic mother has entertained a string of abusive boyfriends. Maverick may be short in stature, but he is large of heart, and it’s not hard to root for this underdog as he starts sixth grade. On the first day of middle school, he overreacts to some pranks, landing in the vice principal’s office. Maverick navigates various social obstacles at school (a couple of frenemies and difficult teachers) and family challenges at home before his mother’s younger sister, Aunt Cat, steps up when Mom hits rock bottom and finally seeks treatment. Sonnenblick’s latest chronicle of middle-school life follows the same winning formula as his previous stories …: a child in crisis, lots of humorous situations and one-liners, and moments of genuine warmth and emotion.” — jonathan hunt.  THE HORN BOOK, c2017.

“Soldier Boy” by Keely Hutton – -“A story that stands up for the unrelenting power of the human spirit to reject evil, the nigh-impossible odds that must be conquered to escape enslavement, and the deep scars that remain for a lifetime . . . Unapologetically searing and catastrophically truthful.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street” by Karina Yan Glaser — “With rich dialogue and detailed descriptions of the neighborhood, the text provides a humorous and heartwarming story about siblings uniting to save their home. Through the Vanderbeekers, Glaser provides a portrait of the splendors of Harlem and the sense of community that can be built among neighbors of all backgrounds. . . This will draw fans of rollicking family stories, and while it’s centered on Christmas, it would be enjoyable any time of the year.” —Bulletin

“A Wind in the Door” by Madeleine L’Engle – “Meg becomes concerned about Charles Wallace’s problems in adapting to school life. The precocious little boy is not only disliked and bullied by his playmates but his health is deteriorating. When he insists that there are dragons in the twins’ garden, she investigates and finds that dragons are indeed there and other alien creatures, as well. Soon she and Charles are caught up in a fantastic and terrifying series of adventures, and the ultimate conflict of good and evil.”– BRODART CO., c2004.

“Wishtree” by Katherine Applegate — “The simplicity of Newbery Medalist Applegate’s graceful novel contrasts powerfully with the prejudice it confronts. Narration comes from Red, an enormous red oak near an elementary school that also serves as a “wishtree” for the neighborhood―once a year, residents deposit wishes in Red’s branches and hollows….Red’s openhearted voice and generosity of spirit bring perspective gained over centuries of observation. It’s a distinctive call for kindness, delivered by an unforgettable narrator.”–Publishers Weekly, starred review

“The Worst Fairy Godmother Ever!” — Sarah Aronson – “sabelle wants to be a fairy godmother and loves the idea of waving a wand to grant wishes for or amuse princesses. When she begins training though, she has some misgivings. For starters, she hasn’t studied, much less read, the rule book. To make matters worse, her mother is known as the worst fairy godmother ever, and she was banished long ago (secretly, Isabelle wants to find her, wherever she is). When the trainees are assigned practice princesses, Isabelle is dismayed she isn’t paired with a princess at all, but a regular girl who seems sad and lonely and hasn’t made a wish. This sweet entry to a magic-packed series deals with confidence and knowing how to be a good friend, and Aronson’s descriptions are lively and detailed enough to paint a rich picture…” Pino, Kristina. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

JUVENILE NON-FICTION

Beauty and the Beak: How Science, Technology, and a 3D-Printed Beak Rescued a Bald Eagle” by Deborah Lee Rose and Jane Veltkamp — “… an eagle injured by a hunter comes under the care of biologist and coauthor Veltkamp. At her Idaho raptor center, she concocts a plan to repair Beauty’s beak, which has been reduced to a stump, using a 3-D-printed prosthetic. The tense narrative recounts how Veltkamp enlisted the help of a dentist and engineer to design and attach the new beak: “Just when they were ready to glue the beak on, Beauty started to struggle. Her wings were so strong, she burst open the wrap around them.” Readers will be fascinated by the photographs of Beauty before, during, and after the beak attachment, and although the story concludes abruptly, following the successful surgery, substantial end notes explore Beauty’s progress, bald eagles in general, and the threats they face.” — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, c2017.

“Bees: A Honeyed History” by Piotr Socha — “This book is .. admirable in its scope, which goes beyond the scientific (anatomy, pollination, communication, etc.) to include the bee’s place in history and culture…both whimsical and comprehensive; Socha has created what is quite possibly the sweetest resource on honey bees around.” –-(Booklist)

“Bound by Ice: A True North Pole Survival Story” by Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace — “Extensively researched and illustrated with engravings and paintings contemporary to the 1879 Arctic voyage of the Jeannette, (this) book presents an exemplary example of how to piece together an intriguing story from a variety of sources. Readers of historical adventure will be drawn to the story and appreciate the crew’s bravery.” ― Booklist, starred review

“Castle in the Stars: The Space Race of 1869” — Alex Alice — “… In 1869, a year after Seraphin’s mother disappeared in her hot air balloon while in search of the mysterious energy source called Aether, an unsigned letter arrives in which the writer claims to have found her logbook. On their way to Bavaria to claim it, Seraphin and his father become entangled with Prussian spies who are also on the hunt for the logbook, hoping that the secret of Aether will help them overthrow King Ludwig II and take over the world. The romantic setting of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle is the perfect backdrop for this steampunk adventure story, and the author and artists use both interior and exterior views to good advantage. Done in soft watercolors, the illustrations are gorgeously detailed and alive with color and motion, giving the whole book a cinematic feel….”  Volin, Eva.,  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“The Great Penguin Rescue: Saving the African Penguins” by Sandra Markle — “…Markle discusses the two-century decline of African penguins. First, the guano that sheltered their nests was taken for fertilizer. Next, their eggs were stolen and sold for food. Modern fishing practices decimated their food supplies and, more recently, climate change has shifted their feeding grounds farther out to sea. The book’s dramatic focus is the extraordinary response to a catastrophic oil spill off the coast of South Africa in 2000, when an astonishing 45,000 volunteers helped rescue the penguins by cleaning oil from their feathers, from the ocean, and from the beaches where they live, as well as moving whole penguin colonies and caring for abandoned chicks. A dependable science writer for kids, Markle offers a lucid, well-organized text, telling a story that is engaging as well as informative. Drawn from many sources, well-chosen photos appear on every page of the book and illustrate the text very effectively. As few creatures are as photogenic as penguins or adorable as their chicks, the illustrations also heighten interest in the birds’ plight. A vivid introduction to African penguins, their remarkable rescue, and their still precarious existence.” —  Phelan, Carolyn.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly – “… four women worked for the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics in the mid-twentieth century. Each displayed early aptitude for math, sharp curiosity about the world around them, and marked confidence in the face of discrimination. They contributed to discoveries about space and to sending manned missions into orbit. Their life stories are the perfect impetus for discussion on a host of important historical themes germane to the 1950s, such as gender roles, racial prejudice and segregation, and scientific exploration. In any context, these women’s contributions to science and aerospace technology would be impressive, but the obstacles imposed by the norms of their society make their achievements all the more impressive. Middle-schoolers will find their story, here in a young readers’ edition of Shetterly’s 2016 adult book (the basis of a current movie), engaging and inspirational.” Anderson, Erin.  Booklist Online. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Meatless? A Fresh Look at What You Eat” by Sarah Elton — . “Elton begins by diving into the history of meat eating with a discussion of why humans began including meat in their diets. The following chapters examine the environmental impact the meat industry has, what a vegetarian lifestyle looks like, and how to make the dietary switch in a way that still allows for getting all of the required nutrition a growing body needs. Elton presents the information in a straightforward way that is both informative and sensitive to her audience. She wisely keeps the focus on the idea of choice and allows readers to come to their own decisions. The engaging, insightful text is nicely matched by McLaughlin’s colorful, photo-filled spreads, which contribute to the upbeat tone and include diverse images of people throughout.” —   Linsenmeyer, Erin.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“Revolutionary Rogues: John Andre and Benedict Arnold” by Selene Castrovilla — “No name in the annals of U.S. history is more synonymous with treachery and betrayal than Benedict Arnold. This in-depth look at Arnold’s personality, rooted heavily in primary source materials, creates a far more complex portrait than the one provided by most textbooks…(with) countless opportunities for critical thinking and discussion. With colorful illustrations and insightful observations, books like this one make the names recorded in history much more human.” – Booklist

“Sergeant Reckless: The True Story of the Little Horse Who Became a Hero” by Patricia McCormick –“Vividly brings to life the story of Sergeant Reckless, the only animal to officially hold military rank in the United States…This endearing story of wartime camaraderie won’t soon be forgotten.” –-(Publishers Weekly (starred review))

“Two Truths and a Lie” by Ammi-Joan Paquette — ““An engaging, entertaining compendium that will inform and confound.”– (Kirkus Reviews)

“When Planet Earth Was New” by James Gladstone — “Will start a discussion of the Earth’s development and future and spark interest in biology, geology, and evolutionary connections.” (School Library Journal)

YOUNG ADULT

“Alex & Eliza: A Love Story” by Melissa De La Cruz — “de la Cruz has struck while the iron is hot and shone a light on the extraordinary wife of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, Eliza Schuyler. . . . Fans of the musical will be excited to see this novel.”—School Library Journal

ADULT FICTION

“Beartown: A Novel” by Fredrik Backman – “[It’s] Backman’s rich characters that steal the show, and his deft handling of tragedy and its effects on an insular town.  While the story is dark at times, love, sacrifice, and the bonds of friendship and family shine through ultimately offering hope and even redemption.” (Publishers Weekly)

“Castle of Water” by Dane Huckelbridge – “… a unique, inventive exploration of love, loss, and survival. The novel’s two characters, lost and alone on a Polynesian island, must rely on each other when the world has forgotten all about them. Castle of Water is a compelling portrait of what it means to be rescued–both literally and figuratively―by hope, ingenuity, and love.” ―Kristin Hannah, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Nightingale

“Come Sundown” by Nora Roberts -“Roberts always tells a good story that balances romance and suspense, but in this title, the narrative is deeper, the mystery is more layered, and with Alice, Roberts moves into another level of exploring physical and emotional trauma and the powerful balm of family and love. [Roberts] is moving into more complex and darker storytelling, to terrific effect.” —Kirkus Starred Review

“Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman – “[A] captivating debut. . . a feel-good story that will make readers laugh and cheer for Eleanor as she learns that the past doesn’t dictate the future, and that happiness can be hers. This is a must-read for those who love characters with quirks.” –-BookPage

“G-Man” by Stephen Hunter – “A first-rate tale that spans decades and generations….The pages fly by once the introductions are made and the characters are in place. Those who grew up watching “The Untouchables” or the plethora of gangster films that were made in the early and mid-20th century will find much to love here, not the least of which is the author’s penchant for historical accuracy and firearms lore. This combination makes G-MAN one of Hunter’s best works to date, which is certainly a major feat.” —Joe Hartlaub,  Book Reporter.com

“Gauntlet (Arena)” by Holly Jennings – “Stunning…Fast-paced, action-packed, with an interesting romance and a compelling yet flawed heroine…Read this book. You haven’t read anything quite like it and you don’t want to miss it.”—Ilona Andrews, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Kate Daniels series

“Ginny Moon” by Benjamin Ludwig – “In telling the tale from Ginny’s perspective, Ludwig captures the carefully constructed, sometimes-claustrophobic world Ginny inhabits…. By turns heartwarming and heartbreaking, Ginny’s quest for a safe home leads her to discover her own strong voice.”-Kirkus Review

“A Good Country” by Laleh Khadivi – “The story unfolds deftly, beautifully capturing the psychology of an American teen who goes down the path of radicalization; readers will understand what would motivate a sheltered, shortsighted young person to run away to join extremists . . . Give this expertly written and stirring exploration of a timely subject to readers who enjoy novels that tackle global contemporary issues, such as Karan Mahajan’s The Association of Small Bombs or Rabee Jaber’s Confessions.” – Starred Review, School Library Journal

“Red Sister (Book of the Ancestor)” by Mark Lawrence – “Lawrence’s epic fantasy is a a great summer read, full of humor, revenge, and perils that this warrior-and-coward duo must evade in order [to] save their kingdoms and themselves.” — The Washington Post

“Sandpiper Cove” by Irene Hannon – “Hope Harbor police chief and single mom Lexie Graham has zero time for extracurricular activities–including romance. Ex-con Adam Stone isn’t looking for love either–but how ironic is it that the first woman to catch his eye is a police chief?” — back cover

“Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage” by Cathy Woodman — “Fans will rejoice as veterinarian-turned-novelist Woodman continues her Talyton St. George series, creating another set of winning characters to populate her fictional country market town.” (Booklist)

“Thrawn (Star Wars) by Timothy Zahn – “In this definitive novel, readers will follow Thrawn’s rise to power—uncovering the events that created one of the most iconic villains in Star Wars history.” — Goodreads

“With Love Wherever You Are” by Dandi Daley Mackall – “Uplifting and endearing, With Love, Wherever You Are tells the real-life story of the romance between an Army doctor and nurse in World War II. With spunk and humor, Frank and Helen navigate the hardships, loss, and dangers of war. Dandi Daley Mackall paints a sweet but accurate picture, and I was hooked. Thoroughly engaging!” —  (Sarah Sundin, award-winning author of When Tides Turn)

BIOGRAPHY

“The Operator: Firing the Shots that Killed Osama Bin Laden and My Years as a Seal Team Warrior” by Robert O’Neill — “Harrowing . . . In frank and vivid detail and blunt and plain language, Mr. O’Neill describes some of the 400 counterterrorism operations and close quarter combat he experienced in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere through his career as a SEAL . . . An interesting and insightful book about some of the most historic moments in modern American military history.” — Washington Times

ADULT MYSTERY

“The Black Book” by James Patterson and David Ellis – “The mystery is authentic, the lead-up genuinely suspenseful, and the leading characters and situations more memorable than Patterson’s managed in quite a while.”―Kirkus

“The Devil’s Punchbowl” by Greg Iles – “The Devil’s Punchbowl refers to a deep pit near the river in Natchez, Miss. Not only have outlaws dumped numerous murder victims at the site, there is also a long-standing rumor that it is where Jean Lafitte buried his treasure. This is a dangerous place, an infested hole so deep the bottom can’t be seen. Penn Cage is back in a mix of murder, racial tension, double crosses, illicit sex, and all of the ensuing violent consequences. BRODART CO., c2009.

“The Fix” by David Baldacci – “The set-up for THE FIX is one of the best this master of the thriller has ever come up with, and there is no letdown as Amos and his associates dig into an increasingly bizarre case …[Baldacci’s] plotting is more masterful than ever, and THE FIX is nothing less than terrific from start to finish.”―Connecticut News

“Flamingo Road” by Sasscer Hill – “”In Flamingo Road, Hill proves that she can not only write a great mystery, she can also create a great character…For fans of female sleuths, Flamingo Road is an entertaining novel, marking the welcome arrival of Fia McKee.”–Rachel Prindle, Mystery Scene Magazine

“Golden Prey” by John Sandford – ““Sandford’s trademark blend of rough humor and deadly action keeps the pages turning until the smile-inducing wrap-up, which reveals the fates of a number of his quirky, memorable characters.”—Publishers Weekly

“If We Were Villains: A Novel” by M. L. Rio – “Pulls the reader in from the first page…A well-written and gripping ode to the stage…A fascinating, unorthodox take on rivalry, friendship, and truth, IF WE WERE VILLAINS will draw readers in and leave them pondering the weight of our biggest actions and their consequences.” ―Mystery Scene

“Midnight Sun” by Jo Nesb0 – “This forcefully written story of personal defeat, despair, and salvation sends a man off to lose himself in the wilderness–where he finds himself instead.” —The New York Times Book Review

“She Rides Shotgun” by Jordan Harper — “From its bravura prologue to its immensely satisfying ending, this first novel comes out with guns blazing and shoots the chambers dry. It’s both a dark, original take on the chase novel and a strangely touching portrait of a father-daughter relationship framed in barbed wire.” (Booklist (starred review))

“The Thirst” by Jo Nesb0 – “Jo Nesbø certainly has the magic touch when it comes to psycho serial killers. . . . Intricate plotting keeps the story shifting under our feet. Nesbø is a master at this narrative sleight of hand, and if you can stand the gory details and hang on during the switchback turns, the payoff is its own reward.”—Marilyn Stasio, The New York Times Book Review

BIOGRAPHY

“One More Warbler: A Life with Birds” by Vincent Emanuel – “Birding with Victor Emanuel will change the way you see the natural world. It’s an experience everyone should have.” –Laura Bush

ADULT NON-FICTION

“The Color of the Law” by Richard Rothstein — “Original and insightful…The central premise of [Rothstein’s] argument…is that the Supreme Court has failed for decades to understand the extent to which residential racial segregation in our nation is not the result of private decisions by private individuals, but is the direct product of unconstitutional government action. The implications of his analysis are revolutionary.” — Geoffrey R. Stone, author of Sex and the Constitution

“Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI” by David Gann – “Disturbing and riveting…Grann has proved himself a master of spinning delicious, many-layered mysteries that also happen to be true…It will sear your soul.” —Dave Eggers, New York Times Book Review”

“Norse Mythology” by Neil Gaiman – “Mr. Gaiman milks [the Norse gods’ hijinks] for all their humor and incongruity, very much in the spirit of the originals. . . . [He] has produced . . . a clear, continuous narrative, with big scenes the same as they always were but with emotional pointers added.” (Tom Shippey – The Wall Street Journal)

“Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor” by Clinton Romesha – “This ranks among the best combat narratives written in recent decades, revealing Romesha as a brave and skilled soldier as well as a gifted writer….Romesha remains humble and self-effacing throughout, in a contrast with many other first-person battle accounts, and his powerful, action-packed book is likely to stand as a classic of the genre.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“This Fight is Our Fight: The Battle to Save America’s Middle Class” by Elizabeth Warren – “This Fight Is Our Fight is a smart, tough-minded book…. What Democrats need right now is a reason to keep fighting. And that’s something Warren’s muscular, unapologetic book definitely offers. It’s an important contribution.” –Paul Krugman, New York Times Book Review

“Warnings: Finding Cassandras to Stop Catastrophes” by Richard A. Clark & R. P. Eddy – “Warnings is the story of the future of national security, threatening technologies, the U.S. economy, and possibly the fate of civilization. …Clarke’s and Eddy’s penetrating insights are essential for any person, any business, or any government that doesn’t want to be a blind victim of tomorrow’s catastrophe.” — Amazon.com

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

 “Golden Prey” by John Sandford — “Filled with his trademark razor-sharp plotting and some of the best characters in suspense fiction, Golden Prey is further reason why “Sandford has always been at the top of any list of great mystery writers” (The Huffington Post).

MUSIC

“Distant Light” by Renee Fleming

BLUE/DVD

“Allied”
“Doctor Strange”
“Dinosaur Train: What’s at the Center of the Earth”
“The Eagle Huntress”
“Florence Foster Jenkins”
“Harry and Snowman”
“Hats Off to Dr. Seuss”
“The Intern”
“Logan”
“Mercy Street”
“Mercy Street: Season 2”
“The Night Manager”
“Queen of Katwe”
“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story”
“Sherlock Season 3”
“Sing”
“Twin Peaks”
“Victoria: The Complete First Season”

BOARD BOOK

“Baby Animals” by Gyo Fujikawa
“Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel” by Virginia Lee Burton
“Quiet LOUD” by Leslie Patricelli
“Tubby” by Leslie Patricelli
“Dear Zoo: A Lift-the-Flap Book” by Rod Campbell

 

PICTURE BOOK

“Arnie the Doughnut” by Laurie Keller
“Bark, George” by Jules Feiffer
Ben’s Trumpet” by Rachel Isadora
“Blue Sky White Stars” by Sarvinder Naberhaus
“Carrot & Pea: An Unlikely Friendship” by Morag Hood
“Charlotte and the Rock” by Stephen W. Martin
“Colette’s Lost Pet” by Isabelle Arsenault
“Dragons Rule, Princesses Drool!” by Courtney Pippin-Mathur
“Goldfish Ghost by Lemony Snicket
“Hattie & Hudson” by Chris Van Dusen
“I am a Unicorn” by Michaela Schuett
“It’s Great Being a Dad” by Dan Bar-el
“King and Kayla and the Case of the Missing Dog Treats” by Dori Hillestad Butler
“Little Fox in the Forest” by Stephanie Graegin
“The Lost Kitten” by Lee
“My Beautiful Birds” by Suzanne Del Rizzo
“Olivia the Spy” by Ian Flaconer
“Pandora” by Victoria Turnbull
“Quiet LOUD” by Leslie Patricelli
“South” by Daniel Duncan
“Shawn Loves Sharks” by Curtis Manley
“That Neighbor Kid” by Daniel Miyares
“Trains Don’t Sleep” by Andria Rosenbaum
“The Treasure Box” by Margaret Wild
“Tubby” by Leslie Patricelli
“Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears” by Vern Aardema

JUVENILE AUDIO

“The Battle of Hackham Heath: Ranger’s Apprentice: The Early Years” by John Flanagan “At the Battle of Hackham Heath, the fate of a Kingdom will be decided. This origin story of how Halt came to be Araluen’s most famous Ranger – and how war will decide the future of the next generation – will thrill Ranger’s Apprentice fans and new readers alike.” — Amazon.com

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

 

JUVENILE FICTION

“The 39 Clues: The Black Book of Buried Secrets” by Mallory Kass — “The book… is the ultimate source of Cahill knowledge. It contains every buried secret, every Cahill weapon or gadget, all the strongholds, and each agent and founder. In it, you will discover the true story of Madeleine Cahill as well as what happened after Isabel Kabra was charged with murder. Nothing has been held back.” — back cover

“All-of-a-Kind Family” by Sydney Taylor — “Meet the All-of-a-Kind Family — Ella, Henny, Sarah, Charlotte, and Gertie — who live with their parents in New York City at the turn of the century.
They share adventures that find them searching for hidden buttons while dusting Mama’s front parlor and visiting with the peddlers in Papa’s shop on rainy days. The girls enjoy doing everything together, especially when it involves holidays and surprises.
But no one could have prepared them for the biggest surprise of all!” — back cover

“Each Little Bird That Sings” by Deborah Wiles — “…The narrator here is 10-year-old Comfort, who lives happily in the funeral home run by her family. A born reporter, she writes obituaries for the local paper. If only they weren’t so opinionated, they might even be printed. As accustomed to funerals as she thinks she is, though, the deaths of her great-uncle, great-great-aunt, and beloved dog, Dismay, throw her for a loop. There’s also the possible defection of her best friend, Declaration Johnson, and the overwrought emotional displays of her younger cousin. Comfort relates the deaths of the older family members on the first page of the book, but the dramatic disappearance of Dismay in a flash flood is told with a keen sense of suspense. Even aside from such happy extras as “funeral food” recipes and Comfort’s “Top Ten Tips for First-Rate Funeral Behavior,” Wiles succeeds wonderfully in capturing “the messy glory” of grief and life.” —  Abby Nolan, Copyright © American Library Association.

“Ghost” by Jason Reynolds – “At school, Castle “Ghost” Crenshaw is taunted about where he lives and what he wears. He also has an anger management problem, but the kid can run, really run. Supported by a loving mother and a tough but caring track-and-field coach, Ghost learns a few lessons about life and teamwork while reminding readers of the potential in everyone. Nuanced characters facing real-life problems delivered with the author’s irresistible warmth and humor.” — Mahnaz Dar, Shelley Diaz, Della Farrell, Daryl Grabarek, Kiera Parrott, Luann Toth, Kent Turner, Tyl. SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2016.

“It Ain’t So Awful, Falafel” by Firiizeh Dumas – “Filled with humorous touches and authentic cultural references, Dumas’s story will resonate not just with young immigrants but with any readers trying to adapt to new situations.”
—Publishers Weekly

“Locomotion” by Jacqueline Woodson – “Like Jack in Creech’s ‘Love That Dog’, fifth-grader Lonnie has a teacher who introduces him to poetry and makes him believe in his writing. Woodson, however, more ably convinces us that her protagonist really does have a gift. The sixty poems are skillfully and artfully composed– but still manage to sound fresh and spontaneous. The accessible form will attract readers; Woodson’s finely crafted story won’t let them go.” — THE HORN BOOK, c2003.

“Lucky Strikes” by Louis Bayrad – “”Featuring a heroine as pragmatic and resourceful as Mary Call from Where the Lilies Bloom, adult author Bayard’s (Roosevelt’s Beast) poignant Depression-era novel traces the struggles of 14-year-old Melia Hoyle and her siblings after their mother’s death.” ―Publishers Weekly, starred review on Lucky Strikes

“A Mango-Shaped Space” by Wendy Mass – “For those interested in psychology and the workings of the brain, this novel will hold their attention.” — From Kliatt

“Mayday” by Karen Harrington – “MAYDAY is an utterly engaging and heartwarming novel of loss and redemption. Wayne Kovok is a natural-born wonder.” – Mark Goldblatt, best-selling author of Twerp and Finding The Worm.

“Ms. Bixby’s Last Day” by John David Anderson – “A story of that one teacher we all have who we’ll never forget, told with laugh-out-loud humor and oh, so much heart.” (Gordon Korman, New York Times-bestselling author of Ungifted)

“Projekt 1065: A Novel of World War II” by Alan Gratz –  “A rare insider’s glimpse into the Hitler Youth: animated, well-researched, and thought-provoking.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Salt to the Sea” by Ruta Sepetys – * “This haunting gem of a novel begs to be remembered, and in turn, it tries to remember the thousands of real people its fictional characters represent. What it asks of us is that their memories, and their stories, not be abandoned to the sea.” —Booklist, starred review

“Unbound: A Novel in Verse” by Ann E. Burg –  “A combination of historical precision, honesty, and adventure . . .Beautifully done.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“When Friendship Followed Me Home” by Paul Griffin – “”[T]his bittersweet, well-paced book…left me with faith that people can feel discarded, as though everything they love will be taken from them, and still end up whole, if they are touched by love of friendship.” — The New York Times Book Review

“Wish” by Barbara O’Connor – “The many ways [Charlie] wishes form something of a catalog of folk and family traditions and are delightful all by themselves….Speaking in an honest voice revealing her hurt, resentment, and vulnerability, Charlies explains how her wish comes true. A warm, real, and heartfelt tale.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Wolf Hollow” by Lauren Wolk – “Echoing the tone and themes found in To Kill a Mockingbird…Annabelle’s astute observations of the Philadelphia woods and the people who populate Wolf Hollow  will resonate with many readers as they present a profound view of a complex era tinged by prejudice and fear.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

JUVENILE NON-FICTION

“The Arrival” by Shaun Tan -“A shockingly imaginative graphic novel that captures the sense of adventure and wonder that surrounds a new arrival on the shores of a shining new city. Wordless, but with perfect narrative flow, Tan gives us a story filled with cityscapes worthy of Winsor McCay.” — Jeff Smith, author of Bone

“The Drawing Lesson: A Graphic Novel That Teaches You How to Draw” by Mark Crilley – “Engaging…A pleasant diversion for a long summer afternoon, The Drawing Lesson is likely to result in lots of ambitious sketching among readers ages 7 to 14.”
—Wall Street Journal

“Fearless Food: Allergy-Free Recipes for Kids” by Katrina Jorgensen – “with more than 100 allergy-free recipes for kids! Fun, delicious and easy-to-make breakfasts, snacks, sides, main dishes and desserts avoid the Big-8 food allergens whenever possible. ” — Amazon.com

“Locomotion” by Jacqueline Woodson – “Like Jack in Creech’s ‘Love That Dog’, fifth-grader Lonnie has a teacher who introduces him to poetry and makes him believe in his writing. Woodson, however, more ably convinces us that her protagonist really does have a gift. The sixty poems are skillfully and artfully composed– but still manage to sound fresh and spontaneous. The accessible form will attract readers; Woodson’s finely crafted story won’t let them go.” —  THE HORN BOOK, c2003.

“Meet Danitra Brown” by Nikki Grimes – “This spirited collection of poems introduces young readers to Danitra Brown, the most splendiferous girl in town, and her best friend, Zuri Jackson.” — Baker & Taylor

“Sea Otter Heroes: The Predators that Saved an Ecosystem” by Patricia Newman – “Marine biologist Brent Hughes didn’t think sea otters and sea grass had much in common. But his research at Elkhorn Slough, an estuary on Monterey Bay in northern California, revealed a new and surprising connection between the two. The scientist expected this estuary to be overrun with algae due to the fertilizer runoff from surrounding fields. But it wasn’t. Why?” — Goodreads

“Soldier Song: A True Story of the Civil War” by Debbie Levy — “Through insightful narration and vibrant silhouettes and cartooning, Levy (I Dissent) and Ford (The Marvelous Thing That Came from a Spring) vividly bring to life a chapter in the U.S. Civil War and the integral role music played during the conflict.”―Publishers Weekly, starred review

“A Time to Act: John F. Kennedy’s Big Speech” by Shana Corey and R. Gregory Christie” – “Excellent. The dramatic and innovative illustrations beautifully capture a place in time and the people who inhabited it. The back matter is powerful addition to a most thoughtful book. — (Booklist)

“When Jackie Saved Grand Central: The True Story of Jacqueline Kennedy’s Fight for an American Icon” — Natasha Wing – “…an inspiring historical episode that also makes a strong case for the general value of preserving our country’s architectural treasures. Grand, in several ways.” —Kirkus, starred review

YOUNG ADULT

“The BItter Side of Sweet: A Novel” by Tara Sullivan – “A gripping and painful portrait of modern-day child slavery in the cacao plantations of the Ivory Coast.”—The Wall Street Journal

“The Serpent King: A Novel” by Jeff Zentner – “Characters, incidents, dialogue, the poverty of the rural South, enduring friendship, a desperate clinging to strange faiths, fear of the unknown, and an awareness of the courage it takes to survive, let alone thrive, are among this fine novel’s strengths. Zentner writes with understanding and grace—a new voice to savor.” —Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews  

ADULT FICTION

“Lincoln in the Bardo” by George Saunders — “The novel beats with a present-day urgency—a nation at war with itself, the unbearable grief of a father who has lost a child, and a howling congregation of ghosts, as divided in death as in life, unwilling to move on.”—Vanity Fair

“The Principles Behind Flotation” by Alexandra Teague — “Set alongside a miracle-induced inland sea in Arkansas, The Principles Behind Flotation is a buoyant, soulful ride through a teenage girl’s summer of self-discovery. Alexandra Teague has an ear for sharp, witty dialogue and an eye for the metaphysical reaches of American culture, and her main characters, A.Z. and Kristoff, are as memorable for their brilliant capacity to see beyond their lives as for their funny, flawed love story.” — Maria Hummel, author of Motherland

“The Prisoner” by Alex Berenson — “As always, Berenson brilliantly blends global politics into an adrenaline-pulsing spy novel. But, most of all, there is Wells, a stone-cold killer who nevertheless does what we all wish we could do: stand up to the powerful and make them pay.”—Booklist

“The Snow Child” by Eowyn Ivey — “THE SNOW CHILD is a vivid story of isolation and hope on the Alaska frontier, a narrative of struggle with the elements and the elemental conflict between one’s inner demons and dreams, and the miracle of human connection and community in a spectacular, dangerous world. You will not soon forget this story of learning to accept the gifts that fate and love can bring.” ―Robert Morgan, author of Gap Creek

“Sweet Lake” by Christine Nolfi — “[Sweet Lake] has such a charming small-town vibe and endearing characters that readers will find themselves falling in love with quirky Sweet Lake and hoping for a series. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber or Nora Roberts’ romances.” —Booklist

“To Name Those Lost” by Rohan Wilson — “A fast-paced, hard-nosed fable about revenge, pursuit, and the search for a moral compass in a place where chaos and rage and injustice set every dial wildly aquiver.” —Kirkus Reviews 

ADULT MYSTERY

“Mississippi Blood” by Greg Iles — “[The] terrific conclusion to his Natchez Burning trilogy is a sweeping story that remains intimate… Relentless pacing keeps the story churning… The trial scenes are among the most exciting ever written in the genre.” (Publishers Weekly (starred review) on Mississippi Blood)

“Rather be the Devil” by Ian Rankin — “Rankin is an expert at manipulating multiple plots…Along with his plotting prowess, Rankin has cultivated a fluid style that accommodates mordant cop talk, coarse gangster lingo and the occasional honest expression of compassion.” –―Marilyn Stasio, New York Times Book Review

“Right Behind You” by Lisa Gardner — “Lisa Gardner is the master of the psychological thriller…The world of the FBI, the terror of abduction, and victim advocates blend into this tense ….thriller.” — Associated Press on Find Her

“The Sleepwalker” by Chris Bohjalian — “Sex, secrets and the mysteries of sleep: These are the provocative ingredients in Chris Bohjalian’s spooky thriller The Sleepwalker. It’s a dark, Hitchcockian novel… Trust me, you will not be able to stop thinking about it days after you finish reading this book.” —Carol Memmott, The Washington Post 

“Sorry to  Disrupt the Peace” by Patty Yumi Cottrell — “Patty Yumi Cottrell’s prose does so many of my favorite things–some too subtle to talk about without spoiling, but one thing I have to mention is the way in which her heroine’s investigation of a suicide draws the reader right into the heart of this wonderfully spiky hedgehog of a book and then elbows us yet further along into what is ultimately a tremendously moving act of imagination.” —Helen Oyeyemi, author of What Is Not Yours Is Not Yours

BIOGRAPHY

“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen – ““Springsteen can write—not just life-­imprinting song lyrics but good, solid prose that travels all the way to the right margic…And like a fabled Springsteen concert—always notable for its deck-clearing thoroughness —Born to Run achieves the sensation that all the relevant questions have been answered by the time the lights are turned out. He delivers the story of Bruce—in digestibly short chapters—via an informally steadfast Jersey plainspeak that’s worked and deftly detailed and intimate with its readers—cleareyed enough to say what it means when it has hard stories to tell, yet supple enough to rise to occasions requiring eloquence—sometimes rather pleasingly subsiding into the syntax and rhythms of a Bruce Springsteen song.”—Richard Ford, The New York Times Book Review

“Lab Girl” by Hope Jahren — ““Lab Girl surprised, delighted, and moved me. I was drawn in from the start by the clarity and beauty of Jahren’s prose. . . . With Lab Girl, Jahren joins those talented scientists who are able to reveal to us the miracle of this world in which we live.” —Abraham Verghese, author of Cutting for Stone

“Three Days in January: Dwight Eisenhower’s Final Mission” by Bret Baier — ““Superb. … A quintessential American story of transcending dignity and success, of personal humility and enormous self-confidence, and unique achievements of which all Americans can be proud. … Many have tried to assess Ike. Few succeed. Baier does.” — (U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, Washington Times)

ADULT NON-FICTION

“Fodor’s Essential Australia” — “Australia teems with cultural and natural treasures. Its diverse habitats are home to countless strange and amazing creatures, while its extensive coastlines include a wealth of beautiful beaches. With color photos throughout, Fodor’s Essential Australia captures the country’s stunning diversity, from vineyards to Outback adventures, from hikes through Tasmania to fine dining in Sydney, from tropical rainforests to majestic underwater reefs.” — Amazon.com

“Fodor’s 2016 Alaska” — “Alaska is a trip of a lifetime. Nowhere else can travelers kayak to glaciers; fly over the highest peak in North America; wonder at the Aurora Borealis; stay out all night celebrating the midnight sun; visit quirly towns; spot bears, eagles, moose, and whales; and learn the true meaning of the word “remote”–all in the same trip. Fodor’s Alaska makes it easy to create a perfect trip from start to finish.” — Amazon.com

“Fodor’s Essential Europe” — “With its sophisticated culture, rich history, and abundant beauty (both natural and man-made), Europe is a top destination for travelers. But for those with limited time who want more guidance on must-sees, this book covers the top spots and must-see sights in 25 countries.” — Amazon.com

“Tears We Cannot Stop” by Michael Eric Dyson — “A hard-hitting sermon on the racial divide… The readership Dyson addresses may not fully be convinced, but it can hardly remain unmoved.” ―Kirkus Reviews (Starred)

“The Secret Life of Fat: The Science Behind the Body’s Least Understood Organ and What It Means for You” by Sylvia Tara, PhD — “Finally, a book that sheds some light on understanding body fat―specifically, its role, why it is so difficult to fight, and how it works differently for different people… This genuinely enlightening book will be a revelation to those engulfed in self-blame and shame about their weight.” — (Publishers Weekly)

ADULT AUDIO BOOK

“The Nix” by Nathan Hill — “Hill has so much talent to burn that he can pull of just about any style, imagine himself into any person and convincingly portray any place or time. The Nix is hugely entertaining and unfailingly smart, and the author seems incapable of writing a pedestrian sentence or spinning a boring story. . . . [A] supersize and audacious novel of American misadventure.” —Teddy Wayne, The New York Times Book Review

MUSIC

“Shostakovich Symphony No. 7 ‘Leningrad’

BLUE/DVD

“The Accountant”
“Arrival”
“Doctor Zhivago”
“Fences”
“Hacksaw Ridge”
“Manchester By the Sea”
“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children”
“Moana”
“Moonlight”
“Never Go Back”
“The Secret Life of Pets”
“The Secret of Six Wives”
“Trolls”

BOARD BOOK

“Dinosaur vs. Mommy” by Bob Shea
“Nighty-Night” by Leslie Patricelli

PICTURE BOOK

“Bee & Me” by Alison Jay
“Bunny’s  Book Club” by Annie Silvestro
“The Chupacabra Ate the Candelabra” by Marc Tyler Nobleman
“Daniel Finds a Poem” by Micha Archer
“Did Tiger Take the Rain?” by Charles Norris-Brown
“Egg” by Kevin Henkes
“The Green Umbrella” by Jackie Azua Kramer
“Flowers for Sarajevo” by John McCutcheon (with audio CD)
“The Freckle Fairy” by Bobbie Hinman (with audio CD)
“Happy Dreamer” by Peter H. Reynolds
“I Am Not a Chair” by Ross Burach
“If I Had a Little Dream” by Nina Laden
“Mighty, Mighty Construction Site” by Sherri Duskey Rinker & Tom Lichtenheld
“My Awesome Summer” by Paul Meisel
“A Perfect Day” by Lane Smith
“The Prince and the Porker” by Peter Bently
“Princess Cora and the Crocodile” by Laura Amy Schlitz
“The Storm Whale in Winter” by Benji Davies
“This House, Once” by Deborah Freedman
“Tidy” by Emily Cravett
“The Very Fluffy Kitty Papillon” by A.N. Kang
“What Color is the Wind?” by Anne Herbauts

JUVENILE BIOGRAPHY

“I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark” by Debbie Levy  — “Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has spent a lifetime disagreeing: disagreeing with inequality, arguing against unfair treatment, and standing up for what’s right for people everywhere. This biographical picture book about the Notorious RBG, tells the justice’s story through the lens of her many famous dissents, or disagreements.” — Amazon.com

“Survivors Club: The True  Story of a Very Young Prisoner of Auschwitz” by Michael Bornstein — “Enhanced by meticulous archival research, Bornstein’s story unfolds in novelistic form . . . This moving memoir [is] an important witness to the capacity for human evil and resilience.” ―Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Some Writer! The Story of E. B. White” by Melissa Sweet — “In this spirited and splendidly illustrated biography, Sweet brings the beloved author to life for a new generation of readers, capturing his love of words, bighearted sensibilities, and reverence for the natural world. In addition to containing the artist’s colorful assemblages, the book is full of photos, letters, realia, and excerpts from E.B. White’s most famous works, making it a treasure trove for Charlotte’s Web fans and aspiring writers everywhere.”– Mahnaz Dar, Shelley Diaz, Della Farrell, Daryl Grabarek, Kiera Parrott, Luann Toth, Kent Turner, Tyl. SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2016.

“Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions” by Chris Barton — This picture book biography tells the story of Lonnie Johnson, kid rocket launcher, teen robot builder, adult NASA engineer, and inventor of the Super Soaker water toy. The story documents his perseverance in overcoming obstacles, some stemming from being African American–a school aptitude test that indicated he was not cut out to be an engineer, the prejudice he and his high-school team experienced while winning the 1968 University of Alabama science fair, and professional doubts concerning his abilities. The narrative also covers his initial failure at becoming a self-employed entrepreneur, remedied only by the hard-won success of the Super Soaker. The text emphasizes the continuing support he received from his family, and the vibrant illustrations are especially effective at capturing expressions and mannerisms that bring Johnson to life (as when Johnson and his fellow Tuskegee Institute students party to a sound and light system constructed from leftover electronics)….” – Booklist

JUVENILE FICTION

“Braced” by Alyson Gerber — “Braced is an honest, inspirational story about perseverance in the face of adversity. Readers will come away wishing they could be best friends with Rachel and believing that they, too, are stronger than they ever expected.” — Alison Cherry, author of The Classy Crooks Club

“Cilla Lee-Jenkins: Future Author Extraordinaire” by Susan Tan — “Cilla’s empathy, candor, and skill at turning a phrase indicates that her claim to be a future author extraordinaire is completely justified . . . Anyone who spends time with Cilla Lee-Jenkins will look forward to reading her in the future.” ―Booklist, starred review

“Forever or a Long, Long Time” by Caela Carter — “This nuanced novel highlights the struggle to trust an adoptive family after a traumatic history in foster care.Carter’s layered narrative doesn’t shy from pain as it testifies to resilience and the expansive power of love.” — Publishers Weekly

“Forget Me Not” by Ellie Terry — “Terry, who has Tourette syndrome herself, offers enormous insight into an often-misunderstood condition, writing in verse for Calliope’s chapters and prose for Jinsong’s. Her poetic explorations of Calliope’s anxiety and Jinsong’s moral struggles are honest and moving.”–Publishers Weekly

“Graceful” by Wendy Mass — “The saga of the magic vortex in Willow Falls that began with 11 Birthdays (2009) concludes with a final episode that ties up loose ends neatly and peeks into each character’s future. It’s fifth-grader Grace’s turn to wield the magic, and she faces a big decision far earlier than she and her friends expected. Luckily, she turns out to be up to the challenge. Readers who have followed the fortunes of Amanda, Leo, Rory, Tara, Connor, David, and Grace through four previous titles will be satisfied by the conclusion, but, as the author warns, new readers should not start here.” —  Isaacs, Kathleen. Booklist Online. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2015.

“Has Anyone Seen Jessica Jenkins?” by Liz Kessler — “Eighth grade seems pretty normal to Jessica Jenkins until the day her best friend Izzy tells her she started going invisible during geography class. The two girls work hard to find out how and why this is happening and in the process discover that there may be other kids who have developed superpowers. The explanation for these powers is science-based and surprisingly believable, considering the fantasy aspects of the story. Jessica and her newfound allies struggle to come to grips with the changes not only in their own capabilities but in their relationships with each other and those around them. It all comes to a head when Jessica and her friends discover that the source of their powers are threatened. The mix of kids from different backgrounds and social groups makes for an interesting look at the challenges of crossing cultural and social barriers. A light, fun read ….”  — Heidi Grange, Summit Elementary School, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, c2015.

“The Invaders: Brotherband Chronicles, Book 2” — The second book in the Brotherband Chronicles takes up where The Outcasts (2011) left off, with Hal and his friends pursuing Zavac, the pirate who has stolen a treasured Skandian relic called the Andomal. Stormy seas lengthen the journey, and an unstable alliance threatens their plans. Rescued at sea, Lydia joins them in fighting Zavac’s forces, but the presence of a beautiful young woman aboard the Heron brings new challenges. In this Ranger’s Apprentice companion series, sailing and warfare take place within the context of strong friendships, human foibles, and occasional humor.” — Phelan, Carolyn. Booklist Online. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2012

“Me and Marvin Gardens” by Amy Sarig King — “Mystical, fablelike… just right for a sensitive sixth-grader with a growing self- and world awareness trying to navigate the troubled waters of uncertain friendships and demeaning bullying. A finely wrought, magical coming-of-age tale with a convincing message.” — Kirkus Reviews

“My Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George — Every kid thinks about running away at one point or another; few get farther than the end of the block. Young Sam Gribley gets to the end of the block and keeps going–all the way to the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York. There he sets up house in a huge hollowed-out tree, with a falcon and a weasel for companions and his wits as his tool for survival. In a spellbinding, touching, funny account, Sam learns to live off the land, and grows up a little in the process. Blizzards, hunters, loneliness, and fear all battle to drive Sam back to city life. But his desire for freedom, independence, and adventure is stronger. No reader will be immune to the compulsion to go right out and start whittling fishhooks and befriending raccoons.” — Amazon.com

“The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and  Score in This Game Called Life” by Kwame Alexander — “Alexander uses sports as a metaphor for life in this earnest gathering of personal reminiscences. …he offers advice from his experience. Many of these rules are similar in principle: learn from failures, accept and appreciate coaching, always be prepared to take the shot when it comes, and know the rules of play–but “say yes to the possibility of sometimes making up your own.”…” Peters, John.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“The Poet’s Dog” by Patricia MacLachlan — “A spare, moving tale. Using simple words that even youngest readers will understand and enjoy, MacLachlan tackles subjects such as death and mourning with understated grace.” (Publishers Weekly (starred review))

“The Secret Keepers” by Trenton Lee Stewart — “Stewart… has created an exciting, fully imagined world filled with mystery and danger, where children can have real adventures without parental supervision. He doesn’t shy from putting the children in true danger, both physical and moral, keeping readers on tenterhooks until the final page.”―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“The Siege of Macindaw: Book 6 (Ranger’s Apprentice)” by John Flanagan — “Will, his friend Horace, and a sorcerer/healer join forces with a fierce but loyal troop of Skandians to recapture Castle Macindaw, rescue Alyss from its tower, and restore the castle to its rightful owner. Series fans will relish the familiar details of warfare and comradeship as well as the surprising fireworks in both war and love.” –Carolyn Phelan

“Word of Mouse” by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein — “As Isaiah comes to recognize his own skills, courage, and self-worth, he emboldens others….Isaiah’s friendship with a human girl named Hailey (it’s implied she has albinism) further drives home the novel’s themes of celebrating individuality and belief in oneself. Sutphin’s detailed line drawings pair perfectly with this sweet tale.”―Publisher’s Weekly

JUVENILE NON-FICTION

“Children Just Like Me: A New Celebration of Children Around the World” by Catherine Saunders — “[R]eaders get an eye-opening glimpse of the lives of 44 children living in countries across the globe today.” — Publishers Weekly

“Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey — Part canine, part human, Dog Man is a crime-fighting sensation. He fights crime, sniffs out wrongdoing, and battles his doglike tendencies. His nemesis is Petey, a cat who cooks up devilish plans in his secret lab. The pages are filled with bold lines and colorful artwork that has a childlike feel and will delight readers. …”—Lisa Gieskes, Richland County Public Library, Columbia, SC

“Dog Man Unleashed” by Dave Pilkey — …Thankfully for Dog Man, the chief’s birthday is almost here, which means a party! Dog Man is in charge of getting the chief a pet fish for a present, but he wreaks such havoc at the pet store–all those bones and balls were irresistible, after all–that the salesman gives him an evil fish with world-dominating aspirations. Meanwhile, criminal cat Petey inadvertently makes an even more dastardly paper version of himself, which proceeds to bring a T. rex skeleton to life. Who will save everyone from this madness? Dog Man, of course (but only if he can stop chasing balls and rolling around in stinky dead fish). …” Hunter, Sarah.  AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, c2017.

“A Gift from Greensboro” by Quraysh Ali Lansana — ”A Gift From Greensboro is just that . . . an accessible, layered, and utterly moving treasure for children and their parents. Lansana’s gorgeously illustrated poem tells a story about what was, what is, and what’s possible as it pertains to race relations in a country that is split at the root. Its tale of interracial friendship against a backdrop of historic division is a perfect tool for parents who wish to engage in dialogues with their children about the world that they are inheriting, which is to say, a world they have the power to change.” –Samantha Thornhill, poet for Odetta: The Queen of Folk –Reviews

“Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World” by Rachel Ignotofsky — “In this wittily illustrated, accessible volume, Rachel Ignotofsky highlights 50 women who changed the course of science.” – Wall Street Journal

YOUNG ADULT

“Scythe” by Neal Shusterman — “Elegant and elegiac, brooding but imbued with gallows humor, Shusterman’s dark tale thrusts realistic, likeable teens into a surreal situation and raises deep philosophic questions. A thoughtful and thrilling story of life, death, and meaning.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“Smithsonian Maker Lab 28 Super Cool Projects” by Jack Challoner — “…what sets this book apart is that each experiment is accompanied by real-world applications that tie new observations to kids’ existing understanding and offer endless opportunities for STEM-related discussions.” — Booklist