Tracy says:
This cute story of a little boy playing hide-and-seek with an elephant is sure to elicit giggles all around! It’s also perfect for helping kids to be more observant and to pay attention to visual cues.
Recommendation
On a Beam of Light by Jennifer Berne
Tracy says:
This child’s picture-book biography wonderfully conveys Einstein’s insatiably curious personality and big ideas. Perfect and inspiring for the child who questions everything and wonders about the world around him.
Pretty Minnie in Paris by Danielle Steel
Stephanie L. says:
The illustrations are beautiful: very pink and fancy, everything little girls love. Reading it as an adult makes me want to paint my nails pink and put on a feather boa!
Don’t Push the Button! by Bill Cotter
Stephanie L. says:
My girls (8 & 5) LOVE this book! Of course I read it in a silly voice and exaggerate not pushing the button, which I think is their favorite part. Such a fun, short book!
Pinkalicious ABC by Victoria Kann
Stephanie L. says:
My daughter is working on learning to recognize and write her ABCs. Pinkalicious is one of her favorite characters, so this board book kept her engaged longer than a normal ABC book.
Ghettoside by Jill Leovy
Tracy says:
This absorbing , thought-provoking story centers on a murder investigation but also wades into deeper issues of black-on-black murders and the failures of the system. In simple yet startlingly effective prose, Levoy paints a vivid picture of the ghettoside culture and those who inhabit it.
Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo
Tracy says:
In this intimate and poignant book, a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist creates a extraordinary portrait of India’s urban poor. I was by turns appalled, charmed, saddened, and inspired.
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Tracy says:
This sweeping family saga begins in 18th-century Ghana. The story of each generation feels like an intimate, powerful tale all on its own, but together they all fit into one beautifully perfect book. A luminous, stunning debut.
The Gargoyle by Andrew Davidson
Tracy says:
Ambitious and hypnotic, this epic tale has something for everyone, from modern psychological drama to snapshots of historical adventures. The writing is stunningly visceral, with just the right measure of caustic humor, and the love story uniquely captivating.
You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me by Sherman Alexie
Tracy says:
This hypnotic blend of poetry and prose provides a raw, searing portrait of grief, a complicated childhood, and—as can be expected from Alexie—the realities of life as a modern American Indian.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Stephanie L. says:
This book had it all: suspense, humor, real characters, and a great story. I was so sad when it ended. I wanted these characters to keep going!
Tracy says:
Mystery, humor, and family drama collide in this brilliantly paced page-turner involving a suspicious death at a school fundraiser. Readers are left guessing until the very end who was killed and why, but the authentic personalities and situations are what truly make this book shine.
Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
Stephanie L. says:
A great read all around, it was fairly fast-paced with plenty of twists so I never got bored with it. The oh-so-clever and satisfying ending was my favorite!
Mona says:
You never know what goes on behind closed doors. If you like thrillers, you will enjoy this book. It’s fast-paced — you will not want to put this book down!
Susan says:
Newlyweds Grace and Jack seem to lead a perfect life. Appearances can be deceiving as this tale unravels and reveals the sadistic psychopathic traits of Jack. This was a cat-and-mouse tale page turner as Grace attempts to outwit Jack’s abuse.
Any Dream Will Do by Debbie Macomber
Cheryl says:
Debbie Macomber is my favorite author, and this book is so good! A great read about proving yourself after making a mistake. Plus, I love when there is a happy ending!
Waking Lions by Ayelet Gundar-Goshen
Donna says:
This novel shows readers that life can change in an instant. It shows us that we might not be who we think we are, when push comes to shove. It deals with international issues that we all have opinions on, but that could be changed in an instant, if the situation were right.
The Girl Before by J.P. Delaney
Cindy says:
Would you move into a house that has pages and pages of rules? Two very similar women do, and it comes to no surprise that physical/mental attributes are not the only thing they share. A real page turner, soon to become a movie directed by Ron Howard.
Trish says:
I loved the back and forth of this book! I loved the naivety and deception surrounding Emma, contrasting the sharp curiosity and strength of Jane. I was drawn into the story because of the slowly emerging facts.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jennings Reid
Cindy says:
If you like Hollywood glam without all the Jackie Collins sex scenes, then you will absolutely love this book. A young columnist gets the chance to interview an aging star only to find their pasts have a common factor.
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
Cindy says:
Body travel—a little far-fetched but this story will grab you! Two women, one a wife and the other a mistress to David. Which of the two women will you believe, and will those beliefs be shattered?
Trish says:
Just when you think it is over…BAM! A surprise! I absolutely loved the unique ending!
Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin
Heather says:
This phenomenal book is at once grotesque, disturbing, fascinating, and utterly remarkable. Journey to the 12th century with Adelia— doctor to the dead. And be prepared to devour the rest of the series, too!
Not A Sound by Heather Gudenkauf
Heather says:
Holy plot twist! What an atmospheric page turner. A perfectly flawed main character, gorgeous writing, and an intriguing mystery. Gudenkauf plays on emotions like a master. I lost sleep for this one!
All Things Cease to Appear by Elizabeth Brundage
Donna J. says:
A suspenseful page turner!
Trish says:
I loved this book. There are so many twists and turns!
Ellie by Mike Wu
Steph S. says:
An adorable elephant discovers her gifts and uses them to make the world around her a better place.
Job Wanted by Teresa Bateman
Steph S. says:
A lesson in persistence. A hungry dog looks for work at a farm, but the farmer says “No.” Will his persistence pay off? Loved this book!
Beth says:
A heartwarming story that shows you can teach an old dog new tricks, and just because you’re old doesn’t mean you can’t be useful.
How to Read A Story by Kate Messner
Steph S. says:
An ode to the love of books and the love of reading. A great read-a-loud to encourage reluctant readers.
The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach
Steph S. says:
The story of an adventurous bear and a canine with a gift for tall tales. Great illustrations support witty dialogue. I loved this book!
Finding Winnie by Lindsay Mattick
Steph S. says:
The true tale of Winnie the Pooh is an excellent, well-documented story to be cherished by young and old.