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Staff Picks

While sports are often deployed as metaphor for social phenomena, Shaun Scott goes a step further, demonstrating how sports are inextricably linked to our politics, culture, and social institutions. Examining 170 years of Seattle sports, this deeply-researched book helped me better understand the long tug-of-war between progressive and reactionary forces, which continue to shape our region today. Heartbreak City is destined to join the pantheon of must-read local histories. P.S. Bring back our Sonics. [Adrienne]

The philosopher in me has never been so gratified by a collection of poetry! Questions of love, memory, beauty, and relationships are all here in poetic form, but the most gratifying poems are written in the form of postulates. Adrienne Chung's debut collection is food for the intellect and the spirit. [Blanca]

In this lyrical work, Smith delves into her own family past, piecing together their stories from archives and oral history as a way to illustrate Black resilience against violent oppression. Written in a conversational and personal style, the book draws you into her journey of personal exploration and questions what that means about our present country. [sweet pea]

In this gorgeous debut memoir, Ani Gjika's skills as a poet, translator, teacher, and storyteller are on a full display. She treats language with a kind of reverence. Interweaving memories of her girlhood in Albania, experiences as a new immigrant in the US, and insights into formative relationships throughout her life, we witness a woman's path toward claiming her power. [Adrienne]

In a detailed biographical account of several crucial players, like Emma Goldman, Alexander Berkman, and their lawyer, American Anarchy discloses the development of key elements of our political lives: civil liberties, the extent of government's power in surveillance and censorship, and the brutality of law enforcement against the individual. It was intriguing to read, since the book presents how a government and its population interact when faced with antagonizing ideologies and war. [Blanca]

Oh this book was fun! And not just because the drinks were pretty easy to make and the ingredients fairly accessible (many of which you probably have already). Each drink has a little bit of history and a write up about it. The steps are simple and easy to follow and many of the drinks would make great mocktails if your not partial to alcohol. [Danielle]

My favorite kind of gift to give the young folks in my life are activities we can do together. Not only is this book chock-full of fascinating science and gorgeous illustrations, it also offers tons of ideas for getting outside and observing the night sky. A gift like this is an opportunity to make lasting memories. [Adrienne]

In a conversational tone, Vranjican guides us, from pre-planning to day-by-day instructions to the hour of the party, through several themed ideas--an Evening in India or a Night in Norway. But before the recipes, there is a general guide to entertaining: what to have in your kitchen, some don'ts, and some suggestions to keep things lively. This book will build confidence for the beginner and level up those who already have some experience. [Blanca]

Ida Vitale turned 100 in 2023 and this selection spans nearly seventy-five years. The perspective and insights of a long, full life are evident, yet even in her earlier works (the poems are presented in reverse chronological order) her words hold such weight, wonder, and power. I'll treasure this book. It's also fully bilingual in Spanish and English, making it a great gift for readers of either/both languages. [Adrienne]

I love Matthew McConaughey's message in Greenlights, and now here he is presenting it in rhyme! When we place our ups and downs in perspective, and we fill our moments with intention, we build resilience and confidence. The illustrations are also surprising views on the points he makes. Gotta think outside the box with this one. [Blanca]