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Staff Picks

This is one of the best poetry reference books I’ve ever read. It’s also just an incredibly interesting read. It’s lyrical, imaginative, unpretentious, and thought provoking. I used some of the chapter themes (which are actually written lectures Ruefle delivered to her writing students) as writing prompts. If you're a writer, philosopher or budding linguist, this book is for you [Christina].

This is such a fun, quirky read! The narrative, told mostly through the voice of Janie - a young woman struggling to find her way after her mother's death - is witty and quick-paced. The plot is delightfully original, too, following Janie as she starts working for, and then plotting a chicken heist against, the chicken/egg farming industry. I laughed out loud throughout the entire book [Christina].

I would try to sell this book to you, but this epic science-fantasy is about lesbian necromancers, undead swordswomen, and political intrigue, so it sells itself. [sweet pea]

Ben Lerner dives deep into what makes a family and what happens when psychology collides with real life. While there is a mysterious narrative thread, the strength of this book is its case study of its subjects. [Karen]

This book has beautiful portraits of many of my favorite historical figures, like Gladys Bentley, Audre Lorde, and Chavela Vargas, but also introduces you to new heroes, like the series of Brazilian singers featured. [sweet pea]

The story of three generations of ghost hunters, helping both animal and human ghosts move on. When the main character, a sixth grader, suffers a personal loss, she views ghosts differently as she fumbles along trying to process her grief. An interesting world in a touching book. [sweet pea]

Up for a romp? This novel is fun! It has romance and witticisms in spades, and at its center, two characters desperate to grow. An indulgent treat. [Raissa]

First published in the 1970s, this little book fits perfectly with the modern issues we are facing. This is Berry at his wise and prescient best. We should all start Thinking Little. [Karen]

A series of school-aged student vignettes all told around the time of the bell ringing at school. As each student walks home, you see the interconnected web of school, home, and dreams. At times funny and sometimes deeply affecting, this book was a great read. [Karen]

Read. this. book. It is laugh-out-loud funny and is a heartfelt tribute to grandmothers everywhere. For all you lit nerds out there: Midge's sense of rhythm and pacing as a storyteller is impeccable. This book makes an excellent gift (pro tip: buy it for a friend and then borrow it from them in 2020). [Christina]