December 2025
The Pecan Sheller by Lupe Ruiz-Flores | Petra is 13 years old and living in poverty in San Antonio, TX in 1937. When Papa was alive Petra was able to attend school, which she loved, and she dreamed of finishing school and becoming a writer. Now that he is gone, she has to work as a pecan sheller alongside her stepmother so the family can keep food on the table. The community hasn’t recovered from the Depression, and many families are immigrants from Mexico working low-paying jobs like Petra's family. When the owners of the pecan factories cut wages further, the workers go on strike. At first, Petra’s life goes from bad to worse with no income at all, but if the strike succeeds, it could change everything. Historical fiction recommended for grades 4-6. ~Sue Daniels~
Isola by Allegra Goodman | The main character of Isola, Marguerite De la Rocque, is confronted with a long list of misfortunes. This historical fiction novel was at times infuriating because it is based on the true story of Marguerite and her rascally, despicable guardian Jean-Francois de la Rocque de Roberval. Combine this with the difficult lives women faced in the sixteenth century and you have multiple themes weaving throughout the story--feminism, survival, religion, integrity, resilience and loss. Each chapter revels more of Marguerite's transformation as she is confronted with harsh realities. The author had me glued to this book from the first page to the last. Check out this awesome book to see for yourself--or stop by the circulation desk and I will tell you. ~Kathie Mitich~
The Missing Pages by Alyson Richman | A young book collector named Harry Widener is on the maiden voyage of the Titanic to accompany a precious book back to America. He goes down with the ship, carrying with him a secret. His grieving mother builds a library at his alma mater, Harvard, to keep his legacy and passion for literature alive. Decades later, Violet, a page at the Widener Library, becomes caught up in mysterious happenings at the library and believes the ghost of Harry Widener is trying to communicate with her, but for what purpose? I loved this book. The writing and the story were captivating. The supernatural references added to the plot in a meaningful way. All the universal themes of love, loss and hope were present in abundance in this highly enjoyable read. ~Mary Hartwig~
The Book of Lost Hours by Hayley Gelfuso | This unforgettable novel moves from pre-WWII Germany to the Cold War Era in the United States to a hidden place in time. In 1938, pre-teen Lisavet is hidden in the time space; a library where memories are kept in books. She spends a decade wandering through this magical place, trying to keep memories from being destroyed. In 1965, teenage Amelia is mourning the death of her guardian when she is enlisted by an agency to help recover a book in the Time Space. This novel by its debut author will keep you enthralled in the same manner as The Midnight Library. ~Lori Kreis~
November 2025
The Nature of Oaks by Douglas W. Tallamy | As a keystone species, oak trees provide essential ecosystem services and support for countless insects, birds, and mammals. In The Nature of Oaks, Douglas W. Tallamy delves into such topics as leaf variation, acorn shape/size, and the seasonal changes that oaks undergo, with a large focus on the fascinating insects that rely on oak trees (it quickly becomes apparent that the author is an entomologist)! Peruse this book for sections that interest you, enjoy the amazing photography, and walk away with new insights and fun facts you'll want to share around. ~Anna Sorenson~
Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell | In preparation for the release of the movie, I decided to finally read Maggie O'Farrell's 2020 novel Hamnet. Set in Stratford-Upon Avon in Elizabethan England, the story follows the life of the Shakespeare family, namely that of William Shakespeare's wife Agnes Hathaway, portrayed as a singularly enchanting and formidable woman. O'Farrell presents the few details known about the Shakespeares, filling in the gaps with beautiful prose that evoke the possible thoughts, feelings, and aspirations of these fascinating yet elusive characters lost to history. Centered in themes of love, grief, fate, and nature, Hamnet is O'Farrell's explanation of events that led to the creation of one of the world's greatest plays. ~Katarina Vandlik~
The Green Mile by Stephen King | Feeling in the mood for something spooky during these chilly fall months, I turned to none other than the king of horror himself, Stephen King. The Green Mile, however, isn’t your typical horror novel. The story is told from the perspective of Paul Edgecomb, who recalls his time as the head guard on death row in a penitentiary. Edgecomb becomes fascinated by one inmate—a giant of a man named John Coffey, who possesses the miraculous ability to heal others with a simple touch. Moved by Coffey’s gentle and compassionate nature, Edgecomb becomes determined to prove his innocence. Tragically, his efforts come too late. The Green Mile is a haunting, heartbreaking tale that lingers long after you turn the final page. But sometimes, oh God, the Green Mile is so long. ~John Bogdal~
Julia by Heather B. Moore | As someone who has watched Julie Child on PBS, read books about her triumph as a master of French cooking for the American Joe, and who also owns a few of said chef's cookbooks, I found this novel of her early life completely fascinating. Before she became known for her starring role in her own cooking show "The French Chef,” Julia Child was an intelligence officer during WWII. How she went from a privileged Smith college graduate to working in Washington D.C. with the Office of Strategic Services to ending up in France and attending Le Cordon Bleu is a story most people aren't aware of. If you enjoy Julie Child the chef, please read this novel about the other extraordinary facets of this amazing woman's life. ~Mary Hartwig~
October 2025
Never Saw Me Coming by Vera Kurian | I like psychological thrillers and even more so in the spooky month of October. Never Saw Me Coming by Vera Kurian follows Chloe who seems like a normal freshman college student. She likes partying, exercising and plotting to kill her childhood frenemy. She is also a psychopath. Chloe is one of seven scholarship students required to participate in the college’s Multimethod Psychopathy Panel Study. One condition of the study is that all subjects must wear a smart watch that tracks their moods and location. All is fine until one of them is found murdered. Does Chloe trust her fellow psychopaths? This thriller is fast-paced and will have you guessing ~Lori Kreis~
Murder Takes a Vacation by Laura Lippman | Lippman has written a dozen books in her private detective Tess Monaghan crime novel series, as well as stand-alone novels and collections. Murder Takes a Vacation features Muriel Blossom, who has served as an assistant to Monaghan. Mrs. Blossom is described as a widow, a grandmother and a large woman who is comfortable with her body. In the past, she has been excellent at surveillance because she has the ability to blend into the background. Now, thanks to a winning lottery ticket, she is able to take a Parisian river cruise. She soon finds herself unwittingly involved in an art theft and murder on the cruise. Of course, Mrs. Blossom has to solve the crimes. This is an enjoyable caper with death and danger but without the gore. ~Sarah Muench~
The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy | What a great idea! Escape the bitter cold of a Madison, Wisconsin winter and enjoy Palm Springs—in a free condo. Kim and Grant have been together for 30 years, sort of. They never married but raised twin daughters together. Now Grant’s college has had to close its doors and life is at a crossroads for the couple. Palm Springs is nosy and quickly wants to know everything about them. Kim jumps into the atmosphere, but Grant is hesitant. But he embraces the hiking life in the area. Most of the story is flashbacks about the couple wondering separately if there is a future for them. When Grant is lost on a hike for days their family and friends rally around them, but how will it end? ~Sharon Passick~
A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst | Maurice and Maralyn have always dreamed of leaving it all behind. Land, that is. After years of scrimping and saving, they finally set sail from England to New Zealand aboard a custom-built yacht, eager to embrace a life of freedom at sea. Everything goes swimmingly until they reach the Pacific Ocean and a whale strikes their ship, sinking it immediately. What follows is an extraordinary true story of endurance and resilience. For 118 days, Maurice and Maralyn drift across the ocean, battling searing heat, violent storms, and the constant threat of starvation. As their physical strength wanes, their bond is pushed to its absolute limit. Readers cannot help but be moved at the tenacity of this couple as they manage to cling to threads of hope and survive this harrowing ordeal. ~John Bogdal~
September 2025
Culpability by Bruce Holsinger | A family of five is going about their day. Seventeen-year-old Charlie is driving the minivan with his two sisters and parents aboard. The car is equipped with a hands-free driving system. A tragic accident occurs and thus begins a story that intertwines technologies such as AI, autonomous cars and chatbots along with a dive into the ethical obligations of those using the technologies along with their creators. This was a page-turner that I could not put down. As the title suggests, the issue of culpability (guilt or blame that is deserved) is in abundance here. But who in the end is truly responsible? This novel was extremely thought provoking and would have many avenues of discussion for book clubs. ~Mary Hartwig~
The Penguin Lessons (2024) directed by Peter Cattaneo | The movie "The Penguin Lessons" is a heartwarming rendition of Tom Michell's memoir working as an Englisher teacher at an all-boys school in Argentina amidst the political unrest of the 1970's. While on vacation, Michell rescues a penguin from an oil spill which soon becomes his inseparable companion much to Michell's initial dismay. However, the penguin, later named Juan Salvador, quickly becomes a central figure not only for Michell but the entire school, offering those around him both hope and courage through tumultuous times. ~Katarina Vandlik~
A Death in Door County by Annelise Ryan | As a sucker for anything involving books, bookstores, and even better, ones in Wisconsin—this story is a perfect combination. Morgan Carter owns a quirky bookstore and oddities shop, but her other “job” is even more unusual: she’s a cryptobiologist. Set in Door County, a region known for its strange happenings, the story kicks off when bodies begin washing ashore, appearing to have been attacked by something… unnatural. The Washington Island police chief enlists Morgan’s help to determine whether a monster is really lurking in the surrounding waters. A true skeptic, Morgan sets out to uncover the truth—only to discover a homicidal creature in the lake, though not the kind anyone expects. ~Sharon Passick~
A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen | Ren has just completed her training as a wizard with outstanding skills and is hoping her talent will land her a position in the upper level of society. However, her quest is derailed when she is in the wrong place at the wrong time, and she and five other young wizards are magically blasted to a remote area with rugged terrain and little access to magic. Even though they each bring different talents and resources to the group, survival on the journey home will be difficult, and they also have to defend against a powerful monster who is stalking them. This YA fantasy thriller is the first in a series and should be of interest to fans of The Hunger Games. Recommended for high school and up. ~Sue Daniels~
August 2025
Why We Love Baseball: A History in 50 Moments by Joe Posnanski | I was planning to avoid recommending another baseball book, but then I read Why We Love Baseball by Joe Posnanski and I couldn’t put it down. In this wonderful book, Posnanski shares what he considers to be the top 50 most important moments in baseball history. From World Series winning home runs to odds-defying perfect games and everything in between, Posnanski’s passionate writing style is endearing and charming and you can’t help but feel the excitement behind each incredible baseball moment. Why We Love Baseball does exactly what it says it will do: it reminds us why the love of baseball endures. ~John Bogdal~
On the Hippie Trail: Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer by Rick Steves | Rick Steves, the European travel guru on PBS and author of numerous travel guides has written a different kind of travel book. When he was 23 years old, he set off on a 2-month journey from Istanbul to Kathmandu with his best friend Gene to really experience the lands and culture of the countries they traveled through. During the entire trip he kept a journal, and it is through these pages that this book was born. Steves really makes you feel like you are along for the ride. His enthusiasm for travel is apparent even then. He was just so excited to see how other people live, especially in places tourists are less likely to go like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nepal. Rick Steves' friendly and unpretentious style of writing and numerous color photos made this a thoroughly enjoyable read. ~Mary Hartwig~
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick | I am a sucker for any book with “book” or “book club” in the title. Add historical fiction as the genre and I cannot resist. The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick takes place in the 1960s. This was a time when women were mainly homemakers. The four woman who make up “The Bettys”—the book club named after Betty Friedan—have one thing in common; they all dream about wanting more. With the support of each other, they work on achieving these dreams. There are ups and downs with the women, their families and some turmoil in the world, but they manage to make strides towards their personal improvement and of course, cause some trouble among the way. It’s a fun read, give it a try! ~Lori Kreis~
Wingspan [Board Game] by Elizabeth Hargrave | Did you know that you can now check out board games at our library? As an avid birder, I'd been wanting to get my hands on Wingspan for a while, so I was excited that it was added to our collection. In Wingspan, 1 to 5 players rack up points by placing bird cards in different habitats and meeting the objectives of each round. This involves a little luck and a lot of thinking ahead. Though this is a complex game with lots of moving parts that you have to balance, it is very fun once you get the hang of it, so be patient and it will pay off! Even if you don't consider yourself to be big on games, the stunning bird illustrations will draw you in, and it will feel good to stretch your brain and learn something new. ~Anna Sorenson~
July 2025
Heartwood by Amity Gaige | A beloved wife and daughter, 42-year-old Valerie becomes lost in the woods while hiking the infamous Appalachian Trail. The Maine state game warden, Beverley, who is in charge of the search, has an impressive record of finding lost hikers. But when no trace of Valerie has been found in over a week, Beverley, as well as the press, begins to question her ability to bring this search to a satisfactory conclusion. The plot is fast paced and suspenseful, but thoughtful and moving at the same time as the mother-daughter relationship is examined through the lens of a number of the characters. A thriller, but with heart. ~Mary Hartwig~
Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent | Sally Diamond's father told her to put him out with the trash when he died. Self-labeled as a socially defective person, Sally is very literal and when her elderly father passes, Sally does what he wished. Knowing that corpses smell when they decompose, Sally thinks it is best to try to incinerate him, with not much success. When the town discovers this crime, she is baffled by their outrage. This attention leads to Sally discovering secrets from her childhood and a better understanding of how she became the person she is. Sally's journey leads her to form new relationships which may or may not change her. This is a dark and twisted tale with some laugh out loud moments and twists and turns that will keep you engaged. For someone who enjoys weird stories, it was a page turner for me, all the way to the end. ~Lori Kreis~
The Fishwife Cookbook by Becca Millstein and Vilda Gonzalez | Although doubtful at first, I opened up the pages of this colorful book and was impressed by the bright colors, stylish photos, and sweet illustrations. The complete, well-designed section on pantry staples had me dashing to take notes. Plus, eighty recipes for me to try for breakfast, lunch, dinner, picnics, and even cocktails. A library patron shared that tinned seafood is a growing trend. With my purchase of two tins of Fishwife Smoked Atlantic Salmon, I discovered this is not the type of tinned fish that my precious mother had in the cupboard. The Smoked Salmon Chowder with White Wine, Potatoes, and Corn yielded a fresh tasting, delicious meal that had no leftovers. Another plus, it was easy to make as a result of the clear type font, tips, and instructions. I look forward to trying another recipe. ~Kathie Mitich~
Danger on the Atlantic by Erica Ruth Neubauer | Danger on the Atlantic is the third book of six in Erica Ruth Neubauer’s Jane Wunderly mystery series. At a recent bookstore appearance by the author, I learned Neubauer is a fan of Agatha Christie and the era between the World Wars. Accordingly, her series is set in the 1920s in various locales around the world. In Atlantic, Jane Wunderly, a self-reliant young American widow, travels on board a ship from England to New York. A passenger and his luggage disappear at sea. Then a trusted acquaintance is murdered. Jane and the dapper Mr. Redvers work to find answers. A fun read. ~Sarah Muench~
June 2025
There is No Ethan by Anna Akbari | This is not the typical book on my list of must reads, but the premise piqued my curiosity. In a nutshell, three women band together to expose an internet predator who preyed on their vulnerabilities. The first half of the book describes the on-line relationship the author had with Ethan and how emotionally traumatic it was for her. The second half of the book describes how the author came across 2 other victims and how they finally exposed Ethan. It was fascinating to read how Ethan had such strong control over the emotional life of highly educated, bright and successful women, even as he refused to meet them in person! The author describes this story as a cyber-psycho-thriller and I couldn't agree more. I read this book obsessively over 2 days and it literally made me gasp out loud in numerous places. This is truly a case of truth is stranger than fiction. ~Mary Hartwig~
Life in Three Dimensions by Shigehiro Oishi, PhD | How would you define a good life? In Life in Three Dimensions, Shigehiro Oishi introduces the concept of psychological richness, which is characterized by exploration, new experiences, changes in perspective, and the entire emotional spectrum. Oishi delves into what exactly makes a psychologically rich life, how to avoid the common traps associated with happiness and meaning, and how to add more richness to your life. Whether this book inspires you to view adversity in a different light, be more playful and spontaneous, or even tackle DIY projects you never would have considered before, there is something valuable to be taken away from Life in Three Dimensions. ~Anna Sorenson~
Yeonnam-Dong's Smiley Laundromat by Kim Jiyun | This novel was a best seller in Korea. It falls into the emerging genre of “healing fiction.” The main characters warm your heart and despite some difficult themes, the book leaves you satisfied and calm. The book consists of five stories with many of the same characters integrated into each one. The lovely Smiley Laundromat provides a strong setting…sometimes with descriptions so vivid you can almost smell them--heat from the dryer mixed with linen, cotton and lavender. Each of the stories revolves around the diary found in the laundromat and the characters sharing and advising. Central to the story is Old Jang, a retired, wise pharmacist, and his dog Jindol. He is not a perfect fellow, but he is a man of principles with a longing to connect with others. This is a quick read full of charm yet not too sugary! ~Kathie Mitich~
Watching Baseball Smarter by Zack Hample | Have you ever wondered what a knuckleball is or scratched your head when the umpire calls a balk? Why do baseball players spit so much, and why don’t pitchers bat anymore? You’ll find the answers to these questions—and many more—in Zack Hample’s Watching Baseball Smarter. This funny and informative book covers everything from how the MLB draft works to decoding the subtle signs catchers flash to pitchers. Packed with colorful anecdotes and fascinating trivia, Watching Baseball Smarter is a must-read for both newcomers and lifelong fans looking to deepen their appreciation of America’s pastime. ~John Bogdal~
May 2025
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes | For fans of British novelist Jojo Moyes, I highly recommend one of Moyes' older novels, Me Before You. Set in a sleepy English countryside town known primarily for its historic castle, Moyes introduces readers to the loveable Louisa Clark and her tight-knit family. When suddenly faced with unemployment and financial insecurity, Louisa is thrown into the world of caregiving when hired by the town's wealthiest family to care for their enigmatic son, Will, who was paralyzed in a motor vehicle accident years prior. Moyes effortlessly pulls readers in, detailing the lives of this complex cast of characters, how they come together and are forever changed by one another. Ultimately, Moyes uses this novel to discuss what it means to live and love well despite life's unpredictability and never-ending set of challenges. ~Katarina Vandlik~
Thirty Below: The Harrowing Story of the First All-Women's Ascent of Denali | In July 1970, six courageous women made the first all women's summit of the tallest peak in North America at 20,310 feet. Denali (or Mt. McKinley, as it was known back then) does not have the "prestige" of Mount Everest, but is still a technically challenging mountain to climb based on its terrain and vicious weather. In the '70s, women weren't recognized as capable of such a feat and were not looked at as serious climbers. Even some of the few articles that covered this amazing feat referred to the climbers as "girls." But what these women went through and survived was no less than astounding. This is a heart-pounding, nail-biting, totally terrifying adventure story that finally gets the recognition it deserves. ~Mary Hartwig~
The Otherwhere Post by Emily J. Taylor | Maeve has been hiding her identity ever since her father was accused of a crime so terrible it put her life at risk. Therefore, when she receives a note through the Otherwhere Post saying her father is innocent, she knows she must track down the anonymous writer. The Otherwhere Post is a system that allows special couriers to travel across magical boundaries by means of enchanted letters. Maeve’s father was a courier so she decides to sneak into the next class of apprentices to see if she can uncover the truth about him. However, someone is as interested in hiding the truth as Maeve is in uncovering it, so peril and intrigue abound. The fantasy elements of the story are fascinating and original, and the plot will keep you guessing until the end. Recommended for high school and older. ~Sue Daniels~
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger | Set in the fictional town of New Bremen, Minnesota during the Summer of 1961, Ordinary Grace tells the coming-of-age story of Frank Drum, a minister’s son who must quickly learn to understand the trials and tribulations of adulthood after wrestling with the consequences of five unexpected deaths. With his younger brother, Jake, beside him, Frank’s determined need to know the truth leads him past the town’s quiet facade to uncover deep and dark secrets about the town’s residents. Filled with mystery, intrigue, and grace, Krueger offers a compelling look into boyhood, manhood, and the perilous bridge between them. ~John Bogdal~
April 2025
The Strange Case of Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker | A mesmerizing novel with a touch of the supernatural, this is the story of a young mother, her doctor and the mystery of the workings of the mind. Jane, a single mom, seeks out a psychiatrist she saw one time, years ago. Now, 3 days after her appointment, she goes missing, only to be found a day later lying in a park with no recollection of how she got there, or how long she had been gone. This is only the beginning of her unexplainable hallucinations, premonitions, and periods of amnesia which confound her psychiatrist and entangle him in a web of confusion where he questions his own claim on reality. The back and forth between Jane telling her story and the doctor telling his story works well to keep you guessing. Who is telling the truth and which version of reality is in fact real? ~Mary Hartwig~
The Straight Story directed by David Lynch | The Straight Story is the true story of Alvin Straight, who at the age of 73 decided to visit his ailing brother 240 miles away . . . on a riding lawnmower. After ten years of not speaking to each other, when Alvin hears of his brother’s stroke he decides it’s time to make amends. The only problem? He doesn’t have a driver’s license and he’s too stubborn to trust a bus driver. Instead, Alvin decides to ride his 1966 John Deere riding lawnmower all 240 miles from Laurens, Iowa to Mt. Zion, Wisconsin. Along the way, Alvin’s stubborn determination inspires a rich cast of strangers all of whom provide him with the kindness and generosity he needs to see his journey through. Rated G, 1h52min. ~John Bogdal~
The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny | Louise Penny’s latest installment in her Armand Gamache series is The Grey Wolf. The title comes from an indigenous story told by a Chief to his grandson. Fittingly, Gamache, Head of Homicide at the Sûreté, repeats the story to his son-in-law and second in command, Jean-Guy Beauvoir. Now the story is a representation of a dangerous plot threatening cities and villages of Quebec. There are fewer village scenes within the cozy confines of the Bistro, the bookstore or Clara Morrow’s kitchen. Instead, Gamache, Beauvoir and Isabelle Lacoste race across Quebec, into the Monastery featured in The Beautiful Mystery (book 8), and over to Europe to piece together multiple threads of the mystery. ~Sarah Muench~
Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence by Jennifer Holland | National Geographic writer, Jennifer Holland, takes readers on a fascinating exploration of canine cognition in her book Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence. Holland takes a multifaceted approach in her quest to learn more about man's best friend, meeting with a variety of dogs and their handlers to discuss the different types of intelligence fostered amongst service dogs, rescue dogs, agility dogs, and family dogs alike. The book highlights new findings on dogs' neurophysiology, their sensory perception of the world, and their evolution to becoming the pets we know and love today. Dog Smart is a must read for anyone interested in learning just how smart our canine companions are, and how we can support them in living their best, most intelligent lives. ~Katarina Vandlik~
March 2025
Conclave by Robert Harris | I recently watched the DVD of the same name and thought it was an excellent movie and wondered, is the book just as good? In my humble opinion, it was! The novel portrays a fictional conclave directed to choose the next Pope after the death of the current pontiff. The decision is not as simple as it may seem, as the Cardinals who are tasked with this job while aspiring to serve the church, can't help but be human and often have self-interests at heart. The story unfolds almost like a thriller, with some unexpected twists and turns that keep the plot moving. The characters are believable and the author's description of the setting in the Vatican make you feel like you're there. One of my favorite books I've read this year. ~Mary Hartwig~
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger | Henry DeTamble is an ordinary librarian with an extraordinary condition: he involuntarily and unpredictably travels through time. Stricken by a rare genetic mutation, Henry finds himself displaced in time, facing both thrilling and dangerous encounters. To survive, he learns skills like lockpicking, stealing, and fighting—but the hardest challenge of all is maintaining a relationship with Claire Abshire, the woman he loves. Their story begins when a 38-year-old Henry first meets Claire, who is just 6 years old, after one of his time travels takes him to the meadow outside her childhood home. As their paths intersect in often disorienting and heartbreaking ways, they must learn to navigate the complexities of time, love, and destiny. With a rich cast of characters and an intricate, yet compelling plot, The Time Traveler’s Wife is a poignant exploration of love’s endurance despite the relentless passage of time. It’s a story that will both break your heart and leave you in awe of the transformative power of love. ~John Bogdal~
The Crescent Moon Tearoom by Stacy Sivinski | You may be familiar with the “cozy mystery” genre of fiction: stories with smaller casts of well-developed characters, smaller town settings, and an optimistic and upbeat tone. No sexual content, no swear words and no overt violence. Above all, a satisfyingly happy ending. Developed partly in response to the dark, hardboiled mysteries of the 1930s–1950s, cozy mysteries give a comforting escape from the more disturbing aspects of crime and detection. Let me introduce you to “cozy fantasy.” These are increasingly popular post-Covid-19. As the word “cozy” suggests, this subgenre is the lighter side of fantasy. Uplifting slice-of-life storylines, rich world-building, strong character development, and found family, with a hint of magic. No dark, world-saving quests, death or blood-pressure-raising stakes. The Crescent Moon Tearoom, debut fiction from Dr. Sivinski, is a sort of coming-of-age for three sisters in quintessential, cozy fantasy fashion. Entertaining and heartwarming, it’s a great reminder that sometimes blessings can be disguised as curses, and love endures. ~Elizabeth Glaser~
The Basketball 100 by David Aldridge & John Hollinger | March Madness has arrived at the Elm Grove Public Library! The book is over 750 pages of finely researched basketball trivia. The challenge for Aldridge, Hollinger and the NBA Staff at The Athletic was to narrow decades of basketball history down to focus on The 100. Each player profile was informative and mixed in with a little entertainment. I approached the book as if each player were a chapter…and it took much longer to work my way through this than reading fiction. The statistics and stories on the players were excellent. The authors use statistics and NBA league history to justify their ranking although they recognize that basketball fans will quibble over the order. That seems to be what makes the book a bit more fun - it celebrates basketball - the sport that dominates the month of March. ~Kathleen Mitich~
February 2025
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke | Piranesi is a mind-blowing experience that will leave you with hundreds of agonizing questions which are all resolved in the most satisfying way possible. Piranesi lives in a house of infinite rooms and endless corridors filled with thousands of mysterious statues. Within this house is an ocean which ebbs and flows, flooding the rooms. As the house's prisoner, Piranesi must discover the nature of his world and how to escape, ultimately discovering who he is and how he got here in the first place. This puzzle box of a novel explores themes of identity, mythology, mystery, and what lies beyond the veil. I couldn't put it down. ~John Bogdal~
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness | Haidt is a social psychologist who has studied modern childhood extensively. For this book, he looked specifically at the connection between the rise of young teens with smartphones and the rise in anxiety, depression and other disorders in the same population. He calls it the Great Rewiring of Childhood and contends that the move from a “play-based childhood” to a “phone-based childhood” has had a devastating effect on Gen Z (children born after 1995). Haidt’s research is thorough and compelling and it will give you a lot to think about whether you are a teen, a parent, someone who works with youth, or just someone who is concerned about the future of our society. ~Sue Daniels~
The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer | A New York Times Bestseller, The Serviceberry hardly needs my recommendation, but here it is! Gift economies are found throughout the natural world and are an important staple in Indigenous cultures. Using the serviceberry plant as an example of reciprocity and interdependence, Kimmerer argues in favor of an exchange system rooted in sharing and gratitude to ensure flourishing for all beings. While our current economy encourages competition and a mindset of scarcity that results in overconsumption and ecological destruction, gift economies meet our needs in eco-conscious ways while providing us with a real sense of community and well-being. Kimmerer invites us to question mainstream practices and learn from the serviceberry; for there is much at stake if we carry on as usual. I hope you'll check out this short but impactful read, especially if you enjoyed Braiding Sweetgrass by the same author. ~Anna Sorenson~
Not Just a Homemaker: The Extraordinary Life of Sheila MacGregor by Paulette Brooks | What would you say about a woman who has a nature preserve named after her but whose obituary reads, “She was a homemaker”? Librarian Meg, who is living the in the farmhouse on the preserve while trails and signs are being put in place, is very curious about this woman. The husband actually has two large obituaries in two different papers, but Sheila seemingly only deserves one sentence. Meg does not buy that idea and spends much time and effort discovering the real Sheila MacGregor. Based on the real life of this extraordinary woman discerned through artifacts, letters, newspaper articles and interviews with people who actually knew her, Brook’s debut novel follows in the tradition of Marie Benedict. By the way, if the author’s name seems familiar, it should. Paulette was a librarian here at Elm Grove before she and her husband moved out of state to be closer to family. Great read. ~Sharon Passick~
Consider the Turkey by Peter Singer | Have you ever wondered where your bird comes from or how it gets to your table? Consider the Turkey by Peter Singer will explain it to you. This book is bold and brazen. He is blunt and without sentiment as he describes details of turkey farms or C.A.F.F. Guaranteed, it will open your eyes to our practices regarding turkeys. It is a small book packed with information, including recipes. ~Maria Pupak~
January 2025
The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens | University of Minnesota student Joe has a lot on his plate. Besides school and work, he has to continually put out fires set by his dysfunctional mother who is in charge of taking care of his autistic brother. A recent school assignment puts him in touch with Carl, a decorated Vietnam veteran currently spending his last days in hospice at a nursing home after 30 years of incarceration for the rape and murder of a teenage girl. Joe can't reconcile the difference of the soft spoken, thoughtful man he's met with his violent, criminal past. He is determined to uncover the truth, at any cost. I raced through this book in a few days, it was so compelling and suspenseful. The writing is so genuine, perhaps because the author is also a criminal defense attorney. You really feel for the characters so it is easy to get caught up in their struggles. An excellent, well written suspense novel. ~Mary Hartwig~
The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki | The premise of The Full Moon Coffee Shop is based upon a traditional Japanese belief that when you care for a cat in some way, he or she will return to help you when you need it down the line. In this cozy blend of astrology, personal growth, tasty café treats, and talking cats, an elusive coffee shop appears to characters needing guidance and encouragement. Author Mai Mochizuki is very intentional in the way she chooses to unfold the story and drop hints that gradually come together to reveal how the characters — including the cats — are all connected to one another. It's the perfect time of year to curl up with a warm drink and enjoy this short and sweet read! ~Anna Sorenson~
Dragon Hoops by Gene Luen Yang | This book is my first venture into the graphic novel world. Dragon Hoops is centered around the basketball team at Bishop O’Dowd High School, where Yang is a young teacher - but not a basketball guy! He becomes drawn into the drama of the sport as well as digging deeper into the history of the game of basketball at the school and in the country. I enjoyed the journey made richer by onomatopoeias, illustrations, and succinct dialog. Chat with your children, grandchildren, neighbor, etc. about a graphic novel to try - I think you will enjoy it. ~Kathie Mitich~
Beastly Beauty by Jennifer Donnelly | I love a new twist on a classic fairytale, and this book provides a smart and fresh take on a tale as old as time. Beastly Beauty is a gender bent retelling of Beauty and the Beast, where a boy named Beau accidentally finds himself in an enchanted castle ruled by Arabella, a beautiful girl who transforms into a beast at night. The premise is the same as the fairytale: the beast must find a way to break the curse on the castle; but everything else in the story, including the side characters, the villain, and even the reason for the curse, are all completely new to the classic tale. Donnelly does an amazing job of making the reader think about what society deems "beastly" and provides a new look at how beauty defines us. I loved the author's inclusion of anagrams throughout the story and the character development for Beau and Arabella is well-paced. If you like fairytale retellings with a bit of a twist, then Beastly Beauty is a great book to give a try. ~Olivia Raasch~
We Are Big Time written by Hena Khan and illustrated by Safiya Zerrougui | It’s basketball season and this story with a local connection is perfect for basketball fans. The fictional team at the Peace Academy is based on the girls’ basketball team at the Salam School in Milwaukee that received a lot of attention during their 2018-2019 season. Aliya and her family have just moved to Milwaukee from Florida to be closer to her grandparents. Freshman Aliya tries out for the basketball team hoping it will help her make friends but as the team transforms from a losing team to a competitive one, it takes on greater significance. The girls’ Muslim religious observance creates a lot of attention from other teams and the press, and Aliya, as one of the team captains, has to navigate this attention while she is still adjusting to a new school and new home. The story is an inspiring read about a girls' team figuring out how to take the focus off their differences and put it on their sport. Graphic novel format; recommended for grades 5-8. ~Sue Daniels~