Angela says:
Pierce is by far one of the best young adult authors, and this book doesn’t let her fans down! If you haven’t read any of her previous books you can start here. Was a great read that I stayed up late to finish.
Recommendation
Strongheart by Candace Fleming
Monty says:
This book is a work of fiction based on true facts. It is about a German Shepherd trained as a vicious police dog but later adopted by a movie director. The dog then becomes a famous 1920s’ film star who still has to overcome some “ruff” situations. It is a very easy and fast read!
I Kill the Mockingbird by Paul Acampora
Beth says:
I loved this book!! I loved the theme that a teacher inspired his students to dream and to change the world.
The Witch Boy by Molly Ostertag
Chris says:
I couldn’t put this book down. The art and the story blew me away from the very beginning. Plus, I loved the themes of magic and self-discovery.
Heather says:
An eclectic family of witches and shapeshifters, and a young boy who questions what fate really has in store for him. Coupled with gorgeous artwork, this graphic novel is a reminder that no one can tell you what to be or who you are—that choice is yours alone.
The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn
Mona says:
If you enjoy psychological suspense, you will like reading this book.
Tiffany says:
I love a well-done unreliable narrator and The Woman in the Window has that in spades. This book contains traces of The Girl on the Train, as well as a Hitchcockian movie atmosphere.
All the Animals Where I Live by Philip H. Stead
Beth says:
I loved the simplicity of the story, the beautiful illustrations, and most especially Wednesday the dog (and his “Wolfman” teeth!!!). A great book for reading to a child!
Breathe Like a Bear by Kira Willey
Angela says:
A simple, sweet kids’ book that gives good examples for ways kids can become calmer and more focused. Would be a great book for parents to read and follow along with their kids!
Debbie Macomber’s Table: Sharing the Joy of Cooking with Family and Friends by Debbie Macomber
Cheryl says:
I love to read cookbooks, especially one by my favorite author. The recipes are easy to follow, the ingredients usually on hand, and I love the added bonus of family pictures included throughout the book.
New Beginning by Tracy Chapman
Tracy says:
Tracy’s simple arrangements and intimate, socially-conscious lyrics always leave me feeling reflective. Her powerful, husky voice can be downright hypnotic, and her songs are a miracle of storytelling.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Lindsay says:
This movie is not only hilarious but has a sweet emotional feel to it. The movie will keep you laughing throughout as well as pulling at your heartstrings. You cannot go wrong with the comedic genius of Steve Martin and John Candy.
The Greatest Showman
Nikita says:
A wonderful, theatrical telling of a story we don’t often hear. Songs that are remarkable and a storyline that is heart touching.
Lungs by Florence + The Machine
Heather says:
There’s not another artist out there that can hold a candle to Florence + the Machine. With stunning, husky vocals and dream-like music that seeps into your bones, Lungs is strong female art at its finest.
Heart Spring Mountain by Robin MacArthur
Heather says:
This wildly beautiful novel spans generations of a strange and troubled family. It is a testimony to heritage and the way we branch out and away from those we love, haunted by the ghosts of our past, our family, and our secrets.
The Americans
Tracy says:
If you thought Walter White was a compelling anti-hero, meet Philip and Elizabeth Jennings, two undercover KGB spies in 1980s America. This series delivers a heap of heart-pounding action. But even with all the intrigue and espionage, it’s the complicated family dynamics and moral quandaries (plus the downright amazing acting performances) that make it one of my favorite dramas on TV.
Refugee by Alan Gratz
Tracy says:
Three stories of refugees—separated by time, place, and culture—are skillfully interwoven in this breathless tale of suspense.
Me and Marvin Gardens by Amy Sarig King
Heather says:
This fun, magical story is full of heart and soul. Obe navigates overbearing parents, destructive friendships, family legacy, and environmental pollution in one fell swoop, all while learning how important it is to care about the world.
Steph S. says:
A must read for fans of Hoot. This book is a reminder that we should cherish our environment. An oddly in-depth and enjoyable read.
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
Cindy says:
Imagine living in the Barbizon Hotel for Women in the present day only to meet a recluse who happens to be one of the privileged working women from the 50s. This mysterious woman is definitely hiding a secret, one that the newest resident is determined to discover.
The Fairiest Fairy by Anne Booth
Pam says:
The illustrations are so colorful and the characters are so cute. The illustrations make this worth the read, but it is more than that. It is a really good book about kindness and friendship.
Little Monsters by Kara Thomas
Crystal says:
Thomas hooks her readers with a mystery from the very beginning and keeps them guessing until the very end, with a twist that no one would expect. This book has just the right amount of spooky suspense to intrigue any and all mystery lovers.
Laura Ingalls Is Ruining My Life by Shelley Tougas
Monty says:
This is a great coming-of-age book filled with several interesting characters who experience some
of the issues of being a tween. It also has many interesting facts about the Westward Movement and Laura Ingalls and her life.
The Notebook
Kirsten says:
I loved this movie!
Penny Dreadful, Season One
Heather says:
Shockingly sexy and dark, this macabre retelling of classic horror literature will keep you on the edge of your seat. Not fit for the squeamish!
The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore
Tracy says:
I was riveted by the poetic detail and vibrant characters that bring Lolly’s Harlem neighborhood to life. If you’ve ever felt trapped by bad circumstances—or if you just love LEGOs—this is a book you won’t want to miss.
Where Are My Books? by Debbie Ridpath Ohi
Pam says:
This book made me smile. There is nothing like sharing a good book!
7 Ate 9 by Tara Lazar
Stephanie L. says:
This is a funny little detective story with lots of play on words using numbers. My 8- and 6-year-old daughters really enjoyed it too. It helps to read it like a detective in an old movie!