"Giver of Stars"
by Jojo Moyes '
Hero Librarians? YES, Please! Women standing up for their rights? DOUBLE YES, Please! Twists and turns, that remind you of that beautiful beating heart of yours? Most certainly, we are talking about JoJo Moyes! This was an incredible tale during a time that isn’t often approached in literature. You will have all the feelings. Expect deep, hearty laughs, moments of sadness that rival the “Me, Before You” series, and serious moments of female empowerment and unity! This cast will win your heart and give you an entirely new appreciation for what it means to be a Librarian.
"Wicked As You Wish"
Rin Chupeco
Magical Kingdoms, Wars, and a firebird, OH MY! This was such a wild and fun ride for me. A courageous fantasy for young adults. This group of unlikely friends come together to save their world; did I mention the Firebird. Enjoy this quick read as a palate cleanser or to get yourself back into the habit of reading.
"The Stand"
Stephen King
If you have ever wondered what happens during the early days of the apocalypse, this book certainly covers it. IN GREAT DETAIL! As only Steven King can, The Stand takes you through the most mundane experience one can have during an apocalypse. Often in dystopian novels, you get a very brief overview of how the world perished. Not with King, he walks you through the most rudimentary moments and allow you to really examine the actual collapse of society. Be prepared, this is probably the only time in your reading exploits that will enjoy reading about such everyday/practical situations. I will leave you with this: This book is one of my favorite dystopian novels and it is by far the slowest end of the world scenario ever written.
"Tigers, Not Daughters"
by Samantha May
TW: teen suicide
This was both heart-breaking and courageous. It gave me virgin suicide mixed with little women vibes, as the neighbors become involved in this tale of probably one of the most unfortunate families I have read about to date. With hints of magical realism, this book takes a nose dive into some of the darkest feelings one can have. However, the writing style is poetic and downright magic in itself, she will literally make you love the things you hate. If you are a fan of superb writing you will certainly be head over heels for this one.
"House of Whispers"
by Nalo Hopkinson
Using some minor characters from the series Sandman by Neil Gaiman, House of Whispers digs deeper into African/ African American myths, legends, and gods. The dialog alone could be paired with stick figures and you would still love this adventure. However, you’re in luck because the artwork is sublime, you will gain a new appreciation for colorist while reading this engaging tale. Excellent for those who enjoy works by Neil Gaiman, especially great for fans of the Sandman! This is a more than worthy spin-off!!!!
"La Guardia"
by Nnedi Okorafor
Alien Immigration, Cross-Species babies, and Humans with altered DNA, OH MY! Placed in the same universe as her hit series Binti, Nnedi Okorafor explores the idea of aliens on earth and what that means within our current social structure. High Action, AMAZING artwork, and endearing relationship, you get a little bit of everything with this first volume. I certainly can not wait for her next volume!
"Memoirs of a Geisha"
by Arthur Golden
As cliché as this may sounds, the book was so much better than the movie. The movie was excellent, you have the opportunity to be exposed to such a dynamic time in Japanese history, but the book literally gave me chills. Golden gives insight to a world we rarely get to see, at least not in a manner that is so raw, so transparent. I have honestly never appreciated the efforts that go into creating historic fiction, the research, the interviews, etc. Goldens love and appreciation for Japanese culture runs deep, and the passion within this writing proves it. Incredible story, read it after you watch the movie.
"Pretty Things"
by Janelle Brown
One girls’ chance for revenge is another girls’ chance for redemption. Once again, a mystery/thriller that did not disappoint! I’m not sure if I am really luck or if I can truly judge a good book by its cover. We’ll call it luck for right now. With a host of twists and turns, this book really explores the possibilities of social media and the effects of living a “transparent” lifestyle. After this, we will all watch our accounts just a little bit closer. This one should absolutely be on your TBR list.
by Raven T.