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Staff Picks

I was intrigued from the very beginning, and then I was enthralled when I realized Polk pays tribute to Marlowe's Faust, which I love. In the true spirit of Noir, this novella speeds past & takes sharp turns. [Blanca]

In this mix of personal essays, researched articles, and poetry, I found a powerful and validating argument to support my inner voice, especially in a world that persists to out-volume subjectivity. There were so many incredible subjectivities in this aptly curated anthology! [Blanca]

Having grown up in Central Washington, I've always felt a little shocked when folks are unfamiliar with Hanford. Too few know about the immense harm Hanford has caused to surrounding ecosystems and communities - particularly to Indigenous communities. This new book helps explain what is known and still unknown about this environmental disaster in our backyard, including the risks Hanford *continues* to pose. [Adrienne]

I’m a simple woman. I like smut. I like age gaps. And I like unapologetic queerness. I was going to like this no matter what, but it’s also just a good romance read, so read it! [Danielle]

Talk about a page-turner! We've got a heist, extravagant secret societies, dark magic, back-stabbing & shifting alliances all set against a backdrop of an apocalyptic near-future on one fateful night: Saturnalia. Both a suspenseful mystery and smart social commentary, this book took me by surprise in the best way. [Adrienne]

Everyone compares this book to The Hunger Games. The problem is: I love this book and could care less about The Hunger Games. Maybe it’s the mythology element or the casual queerness I love. Either way, this is a high stakes fantasy that adults and teens will love with a great love story. [Danielle]

Callender's Moonflower is a beautiful children's story about depression and healing one's soul. Moons (they/them) story and journey is heart-wrenching, sad, joyful, and magical. By the end, you'll be crying happy tears. I recommend this to anyone who needs love and support during difficult depressive moments. [Clover]

Be fooled by the beautiful cover--it's also a beautiful story! Laurie Lico Albanese tells of the fictional inspiration for The Scarlet Letter. It is vividly historical and colors have never been so sensual. [Blanca]

At its core, The Book of Tea is about Zen, Taoism, and chado, or teaism. Originally written in English in 1906, this work is more importantly a protest. Okakura pushes back against imperialism, colonization, capitalism, and Western caricatures of "The East." This book is a pleasant and unexpected riot! [Clover]

One of the most original books I've read in some time. Imagine a group of people who literally consume printed material and retain the information yet cannot read nor write. Sunyi Dean created these people and gave them a story and it is great! It is a unique portrayal of princesses, knights, vampires, and dragons. This is no ordinary fairy tale.[Blanca]