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Staff Picks

I sleep 16 hours a day, buddies. Now grab this peek-a-boo book and settle into ur own rainbow cat nap. ZZZZZZ. [Herbert]

Belcourt asks, what is our relationship to our country? What has it done for us? How do we give and take of our land and who is to say it's ours, anyway? This poetry collection is ethnography in verse, and it holds an incredible balance of beauty and ugly truth. I can't stop (re)reading it. [Christina]

The best picture books tell stories quietly and with authenticity, and this book does exactly that. Its illustrations are sparse, but rich in color. It leaves readers feeling hopeful, despite subtly touching on familial loss. [Christina]

This book is for all sleeping inner artists who want a how-to manual. Barry lays out the tools for reimagining stories with drawing lessons and creative exercises. Also perfect for anyone who appreciates deep thoughts on art, storytelling, and creativity. [Raissa]

All hail our poet laureate! Joy Harjo returns to her family's lands—the Mvskoke people who were forced from their lands. Harjo has a way of taking words on the page and painting whole landscapes. She shines here as she returns to the land of her ancestors. [Karen]

Follow the story of revered author Beverly Cleary as she grows up, discovers a love of reading, and then writing. All set against a PNW backdrop. It will resonate with kids who aren't sold on reading yet - Beverly initially struggled to read until she found the right teacher to set off her spark. [Karen]

I jump at any book with Tacoma legend, and my personal hero, Neko Case. But there's so much more here, like unsung musical heroes Odetta and Memphis Minnie. The short bios with stunning illustrations make this the perfect gift for anyone into music. Also, staff favorite Dolly makes an appearance. For women about to rock, we salute you! [Karen]

PLEEZ STOP WITH THE CUTE!!! No, fuh real. Eye cannot take the toe beans and cute, elegant stretching pawz. Eye am be sorry hooman foots is so ugly, but cat foots are SO CUTE!!! [Herbert]

When my heart hurts, the only things that make me feel better are soft pillows, whiskey, and soul-crushing poetry. This book feels like all three at once. The narrative explores the falsehood of keeping people at arms-length while moving through the motions of "loving," something we've all done. Read this and hate yourself a little less. [Christina]

Sofia galvanizes young (and old) citizens in this incredibly heartwarming tale of How To Make Things Better! She shows us the possibilities for budding dreamers and doers just like Iggy, Rosie, and Ada showed us the potential of future scientists. [Raissa]