Meghan Recommends Poker Face

 

With the announcement of the Golden Globe Nominations last week, awards season is officially upon us! (This is the season where I ask myself if I’ve been living under a rock; how could I have possibly missed all these shows and movies!?) But with no cable and limited streaming services (no one can have them all, right?) I’m grateful for all the productions that have been released on DVD, so that I can try to keep up, using my library card!

 

Poker Face got great buzz when it was initially released on Peacock, and luckily, it came out on DVD in September, so I’ve already seen Natasha Lyonne’s Golden Globe nominated performance. This 10-episode series stars Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a Vegas cocktail waitress in who has the unique ability to know when someone is lying. Vegas seems like the perfect place for her, but she doesn’t gamble (anymore) due to a dust-up with her former boss. When she gets dragged into half-baked plot by the new casino boss and her best friend winds up dead, she is forced to hit the road to stay ahead of trouble - but trouble seems to find her wherever she goes.

 

In each episode, Charlie solves a mystery in new location using her lie-detection ability. She never wants to identify herself to the cops or the media, so the stories often have unconventional endings. The guest stars never disappoint, and each little story is wrapped up by the end of the episode. If you loved Jerry Orbach’s world-weary wisecracks on Law & Order, check out Poker Face!

 

And if you’re trying to catch as many nominated movies and shows as you can, here’s a list of what the library can help you out with.

Kara recommends "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" & "Fa-la-la Llama!"

 

                         

 

Here are two books that I love to read/sing during the holiday season.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland is a beautifully illustrated picture book that also has fun lyrics to sing!  It will make you feel warm and fuzzy while embracing the cold and joy of winter.

Fa-la-la Llama! is a hilarious board book that the whole family will love to sing along to!  The silly lyrics and pictures of the llama will have everyone laughing. 

 

Plus, singing with your child is a fun way to help them get ready to read! Music helps children hear the smaller sounds of words, and builds their vocabulary. 

 

These books are good for the whole family, but may be most appreciated by those under 5.

 

 

 

Justine recommends "Behold the Monster: Confronting America's Most Prolific Serial Killer" by Jillian Lauren

Behold the Monster is a look into Samuel Little, officially known as America's most prolific serial killer.  Although now dead, he confessed to 93 murders, 60 of which have been confirmed, as of 2023. Jillian Lauren, the author of this book, had a unique relationship to Little and often visited him in prison to help get information for detectives. Her findings are shocking and appalling. I could not believe she put up with him in interviews for as long as she did. However, I applaud her for her actions, as she gave a voice to many of the women who would have otherwise been forgotten.

This is a great book for any true crime aficionado wanting to learn more about Samuel Little.

Taryn recommends "A is for Ambitious"

A is for Ambitious isn’t your ordinary alphabet book. The illustrations and rhyming words help to reclaim words that are oftentimes used to put down girls and women of all ages. The book starts off with a diverse group of girls playing, but in the corner of the page are speech bubbles with words that you can’t quite make out yet. As you turn the next few pages the speech bubbles start to dominate the pages while the girls begin to look sad and upset. Instead of staying upset, our unnamed cast of friends start to take these words that usually have a negative meaning for girls and women and begin to reclaim them in a positive way. The book includes words such as: “A is for ambitious! I have big ideas, hopes, and wishes.”, “W, well, that’s for wild. I am free—my imagination is unbridled.”, and “E is for emotional. My feelings are valid, my heart is full.”

I love this book for so many different reasons. I love the concept the creators went for by taking words that are often used to put down women and girls (usually starting from a young age) and using them to empower young girls. This shows young girls that these words shouldn’t feel like put downs, but should instead be taken as compliments. The illustrations that are used show the girls doing activities that highlight what the text is saying and not only is it powerful, but they are gorgeous. I think that everyone would benefit from this book because while we need to teach children that these words are empowering for girls as well as boys, but adults will benefit from the reminder. I would recommend this to those with young children, especially young girls, in their lives.  

Ann recommends "Kid Paleontologist: Explore the Remarkable Dinosaurs, Fossils Finds, and Discoveries of the Prehistoric Era"

         

If you’re a dinosaur lover, you will love this book. Young readers will enjoy the beautiful full-page color illustrations of all kinds of dinosaurs. Each illustration has a caption listing a few basic facts about the dinosaur, and a brief but informative paragraph for those wanting to know more about them.

For older dinosaur enthusiasts to enjoy, there is a colorful chart showing how dinosaurs are classified, an illustrated prehistoric timeline, and a brief section that introduces readers to what paleontology is all about. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who can’t get enough about dinosaurs.

Children, all ages

 

Martin recommends "If You Would Have Told Me: A Memoir"

The three-time Emmy nominee, producer and musician John Stamos reflects on his long career (starting out on the day-time soap opera General Hospital, then moving on to long prime-time runs on Full House and ER as well as successful theater runs on Broadway and occasional gigs with the Beach Boys) and how he beat the odds to become one of today's most successful and beloved actors.

John tells his story in a very approachable manner. You cannot help but find him charming, friendly and so very funny.  He pulls no punches as he talks about marriage, divorce, his own major missteps and the loss of some very dear friends he made along the way.  Added recommendation: listen to the audio version of If You Would Have Told Me as John’s warmth and heart shines through even more when he is reading his own words.

 

Adult / Biography

 

Justine recommends "Sunshine: A Graphic Novel" by Jarrett J. Krosoczka

Sunshine by Jarrett Krosoczka is the author's second graphic memoir.  His first, known as Hey Kiddo, was about his childhood.  Krosoczka was raised by his grandparents since his mother was a heroin addict and his father wasn't in the picture.  Sunshine, on the other hand, is about his time in high school working at an overnight summer camp for children with cancer.  However, you don't have to read Hey Kiddo to read Sunshine.  Sunshine is a self-contained story that focuses primarily on the camp and Jarrett's relationship to the kids.  

Although this novel is being marketed towards high schoolers, I feel it's a great adult pick as well.  It's a tearjerker that deals with some serious topics.  Additionally, Krosoczka does a great job humanizing the children he worked with, letting readers look past their diagnoses to the people under them.

Alicia recommends "The Blonde Identity" by Ally Carter

What would you do if you woke up with no memory of who you are and there are people shooting at you? Of course, you would run, but it would help if you had a very good looking secret agent to help you!  Zoe is a twin and her identical sister is the agent the bad guys are after. Jake Sawyer is the agent helping Zoe escape. From one hair-raising adventure to the next, the couple jump off bridges, trains and boats.  Who can Zoe trust? Jake, her sister Alex, the CIA, the mob and more. Join Zoe and Jake on a trip across Europe dodging spies, bullets, and fake kissing to thwart the bad guys.

Adult Romance

Catherine recommends "The Mona Lisa Vanishes: A Legendary Painter, a Shocking Heist, and the Birth of a Global Celebrity"

If you go to the Louvre today, you would find an ever-present crowd in front of the Mona Lisa – one of the most famous paintings in the world. But at the beginning of the 20^th century, it was not particularly famous or important, and no one paid it much attention. That all changed in 1911, when someone stole the Mona Lisa. Around the world, people were suddenly fascinated by this painting and the numerous theories about who was behind the heist. This middle grade nonfiction book tells both the story of that heist, and the surprising story of how Leonardo da Vinci came to paint the Mona Lisa four hundred years earlier. At first glance, this may seem an unlikely topic for a middle grade audience, but this book has it all: it has mystery, conspiracies, so much humor, and fast pacing that will keep any reader – even adults – turning the pages. It is one of the best things I’ve read all year!

Children, ages 10 and up.

 

 

Justine recommends "Tombs" by Junji Ito

Tombs by Junji Ito is a collection of some of Ito's works, most notably the short story Tombs.  Ito himself is well-known for his horror manga, or Japanese comics. He mostly sticks to short stories, but he occasionally branches out with longer works such as Uzumaki and Tomie. Ito's work has been slowly getting translated into English, and this is just one of the latest of many manga collections the library has to offer by the award-winning author.

If you're looking for something spooky during the month of October, I'd recommend anything by Junji Ito. Even if you're not frightened of his stories, his creepy illustrations will put you in the Halloween mood!

Meghan recommends Chapter One Picks

Twice a year, your CMPL librarians present a book talk, sharing their favorite reads of the last six months. This fall’s program took place last week, but if you missed it, you can pick up a handout with our favorites from any branch, or view the list of titles here.

The list contains all the titles from last week’s recommendation list, as well as the Chapter One event that took place in May. If you are working on wrapping up your Renew Your Reading Challenge, you can pick any title from that list to satisfy the requirement of “Read a book from the May or Septemer 2023 Chapter one handout.”

There’s a good variety of genres, fiction and nonfiction for adults – we found something we loved, and we hope you do too! Happy Reading!

 

Gretchen recommends "The Year of the Puppy: How Dogs Become Themselves"

Are you thinking of bringing a new pup into your home?  Renowned dog researcher Alexandra Horowitz explores the first year of a dog’s life in comparison to that of an infant child.  Puppies grow by leaps and bounds quite literally compared to a human baby in their first 12 months.  Horowitz visits a litter from birth, and adopts one of the puppies with her family to continue her observations of all the wonderful and sometimes inscrutable antics of their new dog.  The new pup named Quiddity or Quid reminds her, “It is less who I want our puppy to be than who I want to be with our puppy .”  Educational, inspiring, and humbling for all pet parents.

 

Kara recommends "Warrior Girl Unearthed"

 

After listening to the audio version of Angeline Boulley’s first novel, “The Firekeeper’s Daughter,” I knew I also had to listen to “Warrior Girl Unearthed.”  It did not disappoint!

“Warrior Girl Unearthed” revisits Sugar Island, and many of the characters I met in “The Firekeeper’s Daughter,” but here we get to know the next generation of Firekeeper girls- Perry and her twin sister, Pauline.

From Amazon:

Perry Firekeeper-Birch has always known who she is - the laidback twin, the troublemaker, the best fisher on Sugar Island. Her aspirations won't ever take her far from home, and she wouldn't have it any other way. But as the rising number of missing Indigenous women starts circling closer to home, as her family becomes embroiled in a high-profile murder investigation, and as greedy grave robbers seek to profit off of what belongs to her Anishinaabe tribe, Perry begins to question everything.

In order to reclaim this inheritance for her people, Perry has no choice but to take matters into her own hands. She can only count on her friends and allies, including her overachieving twin and a charming new boy in town with unwavering morals. Old rivalries, sister secrets, and botched heists cannot - will not - stop her from uncovering the mystery before the ancestors and missing women are lost forever.

Sometimes, the truth shouldn't stay buried.

 

This book is best for teens and adults. 

 

Justine Recommends "Flamer" by Mike Curato

In 2022, the American Library Association recorded a record number of book challenges in America.  Flamer by Mike Curato was listed at number four on this list, with 62 challenges as of writing this review.  According to the ALA, it was challenged for LGBTQIA+ content and sexually explicit material.  

The graphic novel itself is about a boy named Aiden, who is spending his summer before high school at a sleepaway boy scout camp.  He's been bullied throughout middle school, and he's not looking forward to potential threats in high school.  At this point, he's just trying to enjoy his summer.  Boy scout camp is the only place he feels comfortable with others, and the narrative is about Aiden working up the confidence to be himself and learn who he is.  This is hard, though, as he's having gay thoughts and doesn't understand why.

This is a book off the 2022 Banned Books list I really enjoyed.  Curato's narrative manages to incorporate funny elements into a serious story.  Although the book is meant for a middle and high school audience, I enjoyed it greatly and found many of the situations Aiden finds himself in relatable.  I may be heterosexual, but I was a girl scout and an altar server growing up.  It's clear Curato was most likely a scout and altar boy as well since some of the scenes are the type of situations you could only write if you experienced them yourself.  I'm always a fan of authors incorporating personal experiences into their stories, as it makes the book feel more genuine.

As a reminder, Banned Books Week is coming up from October 1st-7th this year.   Now is a great time to get a head start on the list so you have some books to talk about!

Nicole recommends "The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store"

This CMPL Book of the Month follows black and Jewish residents of Chicken Hill as they help each other survive in the decades before WWII. Their lives and struggles overlap as McBride reveals more and more about each character, until their lots are thrown together fully by an attack from the white establishment that leaves a Jewish woman dead and a black boy in danger.

James McBride is becoming one of my favorite authors. I love the way each chapter is a self-contained story and how the plot just sort of reveals itself by stacking stories on top of one another. The way that you almost forget about the body that's discovered in the well in the beginning of the book, until it comes back around at the end. This book is fantastic.

Meghan recommends "The Eden Test"

 

“Seven Days. Seven Questions. Forever Changed.”

Daisy has booked a week-long stay in a rustic cabin at The Eden Test; a marriage retreat for couples in trouble. The trip comes as surprise to her husband Craig, who shows up at the cabin intending to leave her for another woman. And yet, Craig decides to stay, and discovers he may sacrifice more for Daisy than he thought possible.

There’s something sinister about The Eden Test, and readers quickly ascertain that Daisy knows more about their situation than she is telling her husband. Is the older couple who run The Eden Test just friendly, or are they spying on Craig and Daisy? Are the locals just hostile to “citiots” (city-idiots) or is their attitude part of the test? And can Craig and Daisy put their pasts behind them, or will their secrets finally catch up to them?

The Eden Test is an entertaining book that kept me on my toes. 

Recommended for adults.

 

Justine recommends "The Detroit Public Library: An American Classic"

The Detroit Public Library: An American Classic was written by Barbara Madgy Cohn and Patrice Rafail Merritt. Both have been running a tour of this Detroit gem for years and decided to put the information from their tour into a book.  The book itself is a combination of full-color pictures and descriptions, explaining the meaning behind each mural, sculpture, and tile work. The book also shines a light on various local artists from the early 20th century, including the founders of Pewabic Pottery. The Detroit Public Library has a beautiful Pewabic fireplace mosaic, much like how we at the Clinton-Macomb Public Library have a Pewabic water fountain. However, I think the DPL's mosaic is prettier, and I don't say that lightly as a CMPL employee.  

I definitely recommend reading this book then making a trip to the main branch of the Detroit Public Library.  Need I remind you it's free?

Taryn recommends "Linus"

In Linneopolis everyone is an “uptight, straitlaced bunch.” Everyone that is except Linus. Linus loves colors, shapes, and any reason to celebrate. The Line Leader wants Linus to tone it down and become proper just like everyone else. When Linus tries to stay in line, the more bent out of shape he becomes. The Line Leader takes Linus to the edge of town to build some character and get back to being the Linus that they know and love, but Linus feels that he needs more in his life so he runs away. On his journey Linus finds that the farther he goes, the more things change, and once he gets to Squiggleville he helps those residents to learn that he makes their world more special. When Linus starts to miss home he comes up with a plan to bring everyone together and the residents of Linneoplis learn that maybe “different” isn’t a bad thing after all.

I really enjoyed this story because it shows that sometimes being different and not always following the norm is a beautiful thing. I think that this book will help those children who have big personalities to understand that they are not “bad” because they are different and will help those children who maybe don’t have big personalities to know that those who are “different” can help make the world a better place. I love the illustrations that are in this book because they help to make the story come to life. This book can be a great teaching opportunity for grown-ups and caregivers to help the children in their lives to understand that everyone’s differences are what make the world an amazing place. It may even help some grown-ups understand this too. This book is geared towards young children, but I think it would be good through upper elementary school as well.

Phil recommends "The Wager: a tale of shipwreck, mutiny and murder"

This excellent nonfiction book by David Grann is a story of the pursuit of treasure that soon turns into a story of shipwreck, mutiny, and desperate survival on brutal and unforgiving seas.  In 1740, His Majesty's Ship, The Wager wrecked on a desolate island off the coast of Patagonia and the survivors had to make a harrowing 2500 mile journey to safety.  Two factions formed - both of which had very different tales to tell about what happened on their fateful journey...and who was to blame.

David Grann is an adept storyteller and you might recognize his name from his book club favorite, "Killers of the Flower Moon" - now a forthcoming film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro.  I wouldn't be surprised if "The Wager" becomes a film someday, too.  It even ends with a dramatic, high stakes court martial leaving the reader to wonder who will ultimately receive blame for the fiasco - and hang from the gallows.

 

This book is appropriate for adults.

 

Justine recommends "A First Time for Everything" by Dan Santat

A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat is an adorable graphic novel memoir about the author's middle school trip to Europe.  Santat, a Caldecott medalist for The Adventures of Beekle: An Unimaginary Friend, went on this trip sometime in the 1980's.  This gives the memoir not only a fun, ethnic feel from the Paris setting, but also one of nostalgia for 80's Europe.  Countries his group visits include France, Germany, Switzerland, and England.

I recommend this to both children and adults.  It's a great book for all ages, and I think each age group gets something different out of it.

Natalie recommends "Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt"

I knew this day would come.  I started reading the series a few years ago when we had gotten book five, Moon Sister and have been staying along for the ride.  Atlas: the Story of Pa Salt wraps up the series quite nicely, finally answering questions about the elusive Pa Salt now that all seven sisters have been bought together.  Pa Salt's journey is one of loss, heartbreak, and self discovery, ending with a few surprises that I won't spoil.  This is a book that I would highly recommend as the final book in a series that has been going on for almost a decade, and it concludes the series in a meaningful way.

As you may notice, there are two authors on this book, Lucinda Riley and her son, Harry Whittaker.  That is because Lucinda Riley passed away in June of 2021 after battling cancer for four years.  Her passing was just a few weeks after the release of the seventh book, The Missing Sister, which would make it to the top of the chart in the UK and Ireland before her passing.  Before she passed, Lucinda Riley had started working on Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt, and according to a Q&A, she already had a plan in the event she passed before the book was finished.  Harry Whittaker would go on to state that, while her passing wasn't expected, should worse come to worst, she wanted him to finish Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt.

Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt is not only a wonderful conclusion to a great series, but a nice send off to an author who has captivated millions of readers over the years.  

Amy recommends "Killers of a Certain Age"

 

Four sixty-something women are retiring – from their jobs as assassins for a clandestine international organization known as The Museum. After decades of service they discover they are the newest marks. This book manages to be funny, gruesome, and a loving nod to longstanding female friendships. The publisher describes it as a cross between the Golden Girls and James Bond. That description is spot on. This book is intended for adults.

 

 

Nicole recommends "City Under One Roof"

 

City Under One Roof by Iris Yamashita is one of our Adult Fiction Hot Reads and it is absolutely worth taking a look at. This book is a murder mystery set in a small town in Alaska, only the town used to be a military base and everyone there lives in the same building. Detective Cara Kennedy has to team up with the local cops to solve the mystery while actually living with her suspects, unable to leave because a blizzard has closed off the only road out of town. Of course all of the locals have secrets, and Detective Kennedy is keeping a big secret of her own. If you love classic mysteries in closed-off settings, quirky settings and characters, or small towns hiding big secrets, you will not want to miss City Under One Roof.

Kara recommends "Red" and "Gold" by Jed Alexander

               

 

These wordless picture books are fractured retellings of two well-known fairy tales.  “Red” is a fresh take on “Little Red Riding Hood”, and “Gold” is a new way of telling “Goldilocks and the Three Bears”.   I love the illustrations and the specific use of a single color to help tell these two beloved tales, as well as the surprise endings.

These books are best for those ages 4 and up.

Justine recommends "Even Though I Knew the End" by C.L. Polk

Even Though I Knew the End is short but jam-packed read filled with magic, love, and noir.  The story is about a magical detective who is offered one last job before her bargain with a demon is up.  If she finds Chicago's most notorious serial killer, the demon with her soul will return it in exchange.  She can't resist, as she dreams of growing old with the woman she loves out in San Francisco.

If you're a fan of the TV series Supernatural, I definitely recommend this novella.  The whole thing has echoes of the show, from hunting demons to awkward angels very bad at social conventions.  Additionally, it has been nominated in the 2022 Nebula Awards for Best Novella.  It has some tough competition from A Prayer for the Crown-Shy, but I'm cheering for this one!

Catherine recommends "How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide"

“Don’t lean back in your chair!” “Look both ways!” “Don’t jump on the bed!” “Wash your hands!” “Don’t play with matches!” “Cover your cough!” You have probably said or heard these things a million times. But did you know that not taking these wise words of advice is what led to the dinosaurs going extinct? Young dinosaur lovers will be laughing from beginning to end of this book as they hear all of Dad’s silly explanations of how twenty-three different species of dinosaurs met their demise. Who knows? Children might just heed Dad’s good advice!

 

 

 

 

Kara recommends "Dandy"

 

This book is about a father who is desperate to destroy the lone dandelion ruining his yard, and his daughter's attempts to save it . The laugh-out-loud story is sure to be appreciated by all dandelion loving children, as well as their grown-ups. 😊

When Daddy spots a solitary weed in his lawn, he's appalled (along with all of his neighborhood friends). But his daughter Sweetie has fallen in love with the beautiful flower, even going so far as to name it Charlotte. Racing against time and the mockery of his friends, Daddy has to find a way to get rid of the errant dandelion without breaking his little girl's heart.

Uma recommends "Black People Breathe: A mindfulness guide to racial healing"

Black people breathe: a mindfulness guide to racial healing by Zee Clarke.

Black People Breath by Zee Clarke is an extraordinary book that guides Black people and individuals of all colors to heal from racial trauma. The book touches on essential tools such as mindfulness, meditation, and breath work to help deal with these difficult experiences.  

Doctors and psychologists have found the devastating effects racism can have on one’s emotional, physical, and mental well-being. From high blood pressure to anxiety and depression, the impact is life-altering. Clarke draws upon her own experiences as a Black woman to share tools and practices that can support the healing process.

Vividly illustrated, Black People Breathe allows communities of color to reclaim their power and heal through racial trauma.

ADULT

Justine recommends "Wicked Detroit"

Wicked Detroit is a fascinating look at some of Detroit's most colorful historical figures, including founder Antoine Cadillac, and namesake of Woodward Avenue Augustus Brevoort Woodward.  This is a short read cataloging some of the most egregious of these figures' crimes, including everything from smuggling to voter fraud.  This book makes a point of trying to keep the tone light by focusing on older historical figures from the 16th-19th centuries.

If you're a fan of local history, I definitely recommend picking up this title!

Kara recommends "Good Night, Body: Finding Calm from Head to Toe"

It can be hard for little ones to settle themselves for bedtime. This story helps children, and their adults, with the mindfulness practice of body scan meditation to help children let go of any worry, stress and excitement as they dance their fingers like wind chimes, reach their arms like a telescope and stretch their legs like giraffes to relax their bodies and minds into sleep.

My daughters LOVE this book, and reading it nightly has helped them calm down and transition from play time to bedtime on the days when they are overtired or overstimulated.

This book is great for children ages 3 and up.

 

 

Katie recommends "The Soulmate"

 

"Get ready for a thrilling, addictive novel about marriage, betrayal, and the secrets that push us to the edge in Sally Hepworth's The Soulmate. There's a cottage on a cliff. Gabe and Pippa's dream home in a sleepy coastal town. But their perfect house hides something sinister. The tall cliffs have become a popular spot for people to end their lives. Night after night Gabe comes to their rescue, literally talking them off the ledge. Until he doesn't. When Pippa discovers Gabe knew the victim, the questions spiral...Did the victim jump? Was she pushed? And would Gabe, the love of Pippa's life, her soulmate...lie? As the perfect facade of their marriage begins to crack, the deepest and darkest secrets begin to unravel"

I read a lot of suspenseful thrillers, and this one was absolutely delightful. I finished it all in one evening, it was that enthralling. I’d been in a reading slump and this was just what I needed to pull me out of it. Although I wish a certain someone didn’t get the redemption arc they did…

This is a book for adults.  

Catherine recommends "In Between"

 

People, animals, plants – all are constantly growing and changing. We all know the story of the caterpillar who becomes a beautiful butterfly, or the acorn that becomes a mighty oak. But there is a lot that happens in between those stages, and those in between moments can be awkward. April Pulley Sayre’s beautiful photographic picture book, In Between, takes a look at all the ways different creatures can find themselves in between: whether in between day and night, calm and frenzy, or young and grown. Filled with gorgeous photos and with a simple, calm story, this book will make you take a closer look at all that is around you – people, animals, and plants. A perfect shared read for young children and their grown-ups, particularly at this time of year when so much is changing in the world outside. Read this and then take a walk to see what in betweens you might discover!

 

Recommended for children

 

Justine recommends "The Faygo Book" by Joe Grimm

The Faygo Book by Joe Grimm is a quick, short history about the local pop maker, and they emphasize it's called "pop," not "soda!"

The book covers Faygo's origins in the late 19th/early 20th century, their rise to prominence in the Detroit area, and their continuing dedication to the city of Detroit.  Highlights include the many pictures of advertisements and promotional material, a complete list of their past and present flavors, and lively discussions about the triumphs and challenges the brand has faced.  Whether you're just a fan of Redpop or an avid Insane Clown Posse fan, there's something here for you.

Kara recommends "The Maid"

 

From Penguin Random House:

“Molly Gray is not like everyone else. She struggles with social skills and misreads the intentions of others. Her gran used to interpret the world for her, codifying it into simple rules that Molly could live by.

Since Gran died a few months ago, twenty-five-year-old Molly has been navigating life’s complexities all by herself. No matter—she throws herself with gusto into her work as a hotel maid. Her unique character, along with her obsessive love of cleaning and proper etiquette, make her an ideal fit for the job. She delights in donning her crisp uniform each morning, stocking her cart with miniature soaps and bottles, and returning guest rooms at the Regency Grand Hotel to a state of perfection.

But Molly’s orderly life is upended the day she enters the suite of the infamous and wealthy Charles Black, only to find it in a state of disarray and Mr. Black himself dead in his bed. Before she knows what’s happening, Molly’s unusual demeanor has the police targeting her as their lead suspect. She quickly finds herself caught in a web of deception, one she has no idea how to untangle. Fortunately for Molly, friends she never knew she had unite with her in a search for clues to what really happened to Mr. Black—but will they be able to find the real killer before it’s too late?

A Clue-like, locked-room mystery and a heartwarming journey of the spirit, The Maid explores what it means to be the same as everyone else and yet entirely different—and reveals that all mysteries can be solved through connection to the human heart.”

I listened to the audio version, and I thought Lauren Ambrose (the narrator) did a great job capturing Molly’s voice.  I enjoyed the suspense of the story without all of the blood and gore than can come with some mysteries, and was very excited to hear that it is in development to be made into a motion picture! This book is best for adults.

 

 

Lisa recommends "Bing! Bang! Chugga! Beep!"

I love new car books for kids, especially when they are done right.  It is a very popular subject for toddlers and preschoolers and it gets tiring to read the same book over and over. This new addition is great and many of us already love Bill Martin Jr. for his classic title of Brown Bear, Brown Bear. The illustrations are a bit different, but still great, and remind me of Emma Garcia’s books such as Toot Toot Beep Beep.  Sing this one to the tune of “This Old Man” and look for it in future story times!

 

Justine recommends "All Systems Red" by Martha Wells

All Systems Red by Martha Wells is the first book in a hilarious sci-fi novella series.  

The series follows Murderbot, a killing machine who's hacked its governor module without anyone knowing.  However, Murderbot doesn't want to leave its post and go rogue.  Instead, it uses it's newfound freedom to watch as much media as it can in its free time.  It's freedom is constantly in jeopardy, though, because its stupid human clients test Murderbot's patience and ability to pretend it's not hacked.

The Murderbot Diaries is a must-read in the science fiction genre, and there are plenty of books to keep you busy.  Currently, there are five novellas and one novel in the series.  The seventh in the series is due out November 2023.

Kara recommends the "Sir Ladybug" series

This is a great beginning graphic novel series that follows the comedic adventures of a ladybug knight, who never shies away from a quest, and his two pals-a roly-poly and a snail. Each story emphasizes friendship, teamwork, creative thinking, bravery and responsibility with fun and surprises along the way!

These books can be enjoyed by everyone, but may be best for newly independent readers or those ages 6-10. 

 

Martin recommends "Oscar Wars"

In Oscar Wars, Michael Schulman chronicles the remarkable, sprawling history of the Academy Awards and the personal dramas—some iconic, others never-before-revealed—that have played out on the stage and off camera. Unlike other books on the subject, each chapter takes a deep dive into a particular year, conflict, or even category that tells a larger story of cultural change, from Louis B. Mayer to Moonlight. Schulman examines how the red carpet runs through contested turf, and the victors aren't always as clear as the names drawn from envelopes. Caught in the crossfire are people: their thwarted ambitions, their artistic epiphanies, their messy collaborations, their dreams fulfilled or dashed.

I have always been fascinated by Hollywood, by actors and by the movies. Schulman covers the nine decades of the Academy Awards, from the way the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences first came together all the way up to most recent times. There were a number of fascinating stories: the parallels from the two 1950 films Sunset Boulevard and All About Eve, the HUAC blacklisting actions of the 1950's, and how the demographics of the Academy in the early 1970's. I very much recommend this for movie fans.

Adult / Nonfiction

Taryn recommends "Missing Violet"

 

Mia and Violet are inseparable best friends that do everything together. One day Violet leaves school early because she is sick, but she doesn’t get better. Without her best friend, Mia slips into a gloomy mood that she can’t seem to shake. As Mia’s grief shifts like the colors of the rainbow she wonders if she will ever feel like herself again or if this horrible feeling will last forever. Eventually Mia reaches out to her classmates and she discovers that she is not the only person that misses Violet and remembers what she loved the most about her best friend. Mia and her classmates come together to help Violet’s memory live on.

This book does an amazing job of dealing with the topic of grief in a sensitive and age-appropriate way. This book would make an excellent choice for any adult that wants to approach the child in their life about dealing with their grief in the right way. It is beautifully illustrated and uses the colors of the rainbow to help express the stages of grief that Mia goes through while dealing with the loss of her friend. The recommended age for this book would be early elementary aged children, although it could help caregivers to approach the subject of loss to young children as well.

Amy recommends "The Overnight Guest"

I missed this thriller in 2022 but I am glad I picked it up in 2023. There are three stories that the reader knows all tie together but each one is intriguing on its own. When they finally all crash into each other, it’s as satisfying as it is horrifying!

Wylie Lark is a true crime writer who has rented an isolated farmhouse – the site of the infamous crime she is tackling in her most recent book - to focus on work. During a particularly terrible snowstorm, she finds a young child barely alive outside. It soon becomes obvious that Wylie is not alone as she thought and sometimes lightning strikes in the same place twice. This book is intended for adults.

Meghan recommends "Two Girls Down"

“When two young sisters, Kylie and Bailey Brandt, disappear from a strip mall parking lot in a small Pennsylvania town, their devastated family hires an enigmatic bounty hunter from California, Alice Vega, to do what the authorities cannot. Immediately shut out by a local police department already stretched thin by budget cuts and the growing OxyContin and meth epidemics, Vega enlists the help of a disgraced former cop, Max Caplan, to cut through the local politics. With little to go on, Vega and Cap will go to extraordinary lengths to untangle a complex web of lies, false leads, and dangerous relationships to locate both girls before time runs out and the girls are gone forever.” – summary from the publisher

This mystery is a fast-paced, action-packed story featuring a tough-as-nails detective. Vega is known for finding missing people, and while her methods aren’t always above board, she always gets results. Cap is a nice contrast to Vega; as a former cop he knows (and cares) more about the rules, and the way he interacts with his daughter Nell proves he is a sweet and devoted father. Together these two work every lead to try to bring the girls home. The book features a fair amount of violence, and child abuse and is recommended for adults. It is the first of three books featuring the pair of private investigators.

 

 

 

Kara recommends "When Cloud Became a Cloud"

With both facts and humor, this non-fiction book about Cloud provides a wonderful explanation of the water cycle for children as young as 3.

 

 

 

Amy recommends "Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six"

 

Finally! A thriller with a twisty ending that didn’t seem outlandish! For the longest time I could not figure out how the two parallel stories being told related to each other. The reveal was worth the wait. This novel has everything you’d expect from a can’t-put-down-thriller: a creepy cabin, a creepier caretaker, lingering doubt as to who can be trusted, and a back story (or two) that keeps everything moving at a relentless pace.

This book is intended for adults.

Justine recommends "Bright Wings: An Illustrated Anthology of Poems About Birds"

Billy Collins, the editor of this tome, joined with David Allen Sibley, America's foremost bird illustrator, to celebrate our favorite angry little creatures. Over one hundred poems are joined with approximately sixty original illustrations for a delightful combination of art book, poetry collection, and field guide. Famous poets in the collection include Chaucer, Catullus, Robert Browning, and James Wright.

In one of the coldest times of the year, it's hard to go bird watching. However, this book can help alleviate your winter blues by reminding you of what's to come in the spring months ahead.

Gretchen recommends "Ms. Demeanor"

Are you tired of the gray days of January and need a pick-me-up? Elinor Lipman’s latest novel is a delightful rom-com that starts with a rooftop dalliance that lands the heroine with an indecent exposure charge, a suspended law license, and a court-ordered lock down. Two worlds unexpectedly collide when she meets a fellow condo dweller in her building in similar straits. Throw in a caring but competitive twin sister, some TikTok cooking videos to pass the time, and some sideways sleuthing to expose her mysterious accuser. The result is a funny and sweet story of how you never know things can take an unexpected turn for the best.  For adults.

 

 

 

Katie recommends "What Moves the Dead"

 

“The dead don’t walk. Except, sometimes, when they do.”
― T. Kingfisher, What Moves the Dead 

This is a retelling of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher”, and as a Poe fan, that was enough of a selling point for me. Kingfisher does a great job of telling this creepy, ominous story in a fresh way. Everyone and everything feels like a threat, justifying the paranoia and fear the characters are feeling. It’s a wonderfully weird mix of gothic horror and sci-fi, with a dash of humor as well. And it’s short – less than 200 pages!

You definitely don’t have to be familiar with Poe’s original work to enjoy this new take. Highly recommend if you’re into weird and quirky dark stories like I am.

This is an adult novel.