Fabulous Fiction Firsts #844

Wed, 10/02/2024 - 5:30pm by muffy

Shortlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize, (and the ONLY debut novel to be named) The Safekeep* *  by Yael van der Wouden (author website), which the judges called “a compelling and atmospheric story of obsession and secrets… (is) a novel that explores the things that are kept from us as children and the things we tell ourselves about our own hidden desires." (Also available in downloadable eBook and audiobook.)

Summer, 1961. In the rural Dutch province of Overijssel, Isabel lives alone in her late mother's country home. Fastidious and compulsive, she spends her days counting and caring for all the objects that came with the house when the family moved there in 1944. But her routine and discipline are upended when Louis, her older brother who inherited the property announces that his new girlfriend Eva will move in for the summer while he travels for work. Eva is messy, sleeps late and is too friendly with the maid. When things start disappearing around the house, Isabel's suspicions begin to spiral. At that point, the story takes an unexpected and dramatic turn that leads to stunning realizations about the women's entwined history.

“This is a beautifully realized book, nearly perfect, as van der Wouden quietly explores the intricate nuances of resentment-hued sibling dynamics, the discovery of desire (and the simultaneous discovery of self), queer relationships at a time when they went unspoken, and the legacy of war and what it might mean to have been complicit in its horrors. A brilliant debut, as multifaceted as a gem.” (Kirkus Reviews) 

"For readers who appreciate introspective historical fiction and LGBTQ+ coming out stories."(Booklist)

* * = 2 starred reviews

Staff Picks: Teen Sports Comics

Sat, 09/28/2024 - 6:30pm by nicole

Kick off your comics reading list with these graphic novels about sports. These pages are packed with professional pillow fights, hockey checks, bare-knuckle boxers, and even sci-fi sports from outer space!

Pillow Talk by Stephanie Cooke| Request Now
When college freshman Grace Mendes reluctantly attends her first pillow fight match, she falls in love with the sport. Despite her usually shy nature, Grace decides to try out for the Pillow Fight Federation (PFF), a locally famous league of fighters with larger-than-life personas like Pain Eyre, Miss Fortune, and Kat Atonic. They may battle with pillows, but there is nothing soft about these fighters. In pillow fighting, everything goes! Grace has always struggled with body image issues, so she's shocked when she makes the league and is welcomed into the fold of confident fighters. But as her first official fight looms on the horizon, the real battle taking place is between Grace and her insecurities. What if people laugh or make fun of her? Why did she think she could pillow fight in the first place when she doesn't look like a "typical" athlete? When Grace, a.k.a Cinderhella, dominates her first match in the ring, no one is laughing. And as her alter-ego rises through the ranks of the PFF, gaining online fame (and online trolls), can Grace use the spotlight to become an icon not just for others, but most importantly, for herself?

Check, Please! Vol. 1, #Hockey! by Ngozi Ukazu| Request Now

Staff Picks: Spooky YA Graphic Novels

Wed, 09/25/2024 - 9:51am by walkerk

It's the season for some light and spooky fun! We're talking young adult graphic novels with friends solving mysteries, ghost hunters, witches searching for missing classmates, and endearing retellings of Halloween favorites: Sleepy Hollow, and Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

Hollow by Shannon Watters | Request Now
City slicker-skeptic Isabel "Izzy" Crane and her family have just relocated to Sleepy Hollow, the town made famous by Washington Irving's legend of the Headless Horseman. Navigating her new life, Izzy has no time for superstition, but she gets pulled into the orbit of the town's teen royalty, Vicky Van Tassel, and lovable varsity-level prankster Croc Byun. The trio is haunted by the Horseman himself, uncovering a curse set on destroying the Van Tassel line. Now, they have only until Halloween night to break it—meaning it's a totally inconvenient time for Izzy to develop a massive crush on the enigmatic Vicky.

Weaving together threads of mystery, coming-of-age stories, friendship, and light romance, this is a cute, inclusive, modern retelling of Sleepy Hollow. With its lovable characters, its fast-paced story, and surprising twists on the Horseman tale, Hollow makes for a fun Autumn read.

Staff Picks: Nonfiction Comics About Games

Sat, 09/14/2024 - 6:01pm by nicole

These graphic novels explore the entertaining history of games. Learn about the creation of some the world's most famous video games, the dawn of the gaming revolution, and tabletop games that changed pop culture!

The Comic Book Story of Video Games: The Incredible History of the Electronic Gaming Revolution by Jonathan Hennessey | Request Now
A complete, illustrated history of video games--highlighting the machines, games, and people who have made gaming a worldwide, billion dollar industry/artform! This book provides readers with everything they need to know about video games--from their early beginnings during World War II, to the emergence of arcade games in the 1970s, to the rise of Nintendo and app-based games like Pokemon Go. Each chapter features spotlights on major players in the development of games and gaming that contains everything that gamers and non-gamers alike need to understand and appreciate this incredible phenomenon.

Staff Picks: Novels Set in College

Fri, 09/13/2024 - 2:14pm by lucroe

Autumn is upon us and classes have begun. College is a hugely formative time, the setting for first romances, new friendships, and academic exploration. With that in mind, here are some interesting academia set books with mystery, drama, and action that make for perfect reading during the cooler days ahead.

The Unfortunates by J K Chukwu | Request Now
After her first year of college, Sahara, already worn out, decides to push forward with her senior thesis, aiming to shed light on the harsh realities of being Black on campus. A concerning number of Black students, referred to as "the Unfortunates" by their Black counterparts who have survived, have vanished, dropped out, or passed away. Struggling with depression, Sahara secretly dreams of becoming one of the Unfortunates before the school year concludes, often imagining how she'll put an end to her torment and quiet the inner critic she's had since she was a child. Despite her feeling worthless, she is compelled to make a difference before her life ends. She explores the psychological burden of university life, criticizes allies' support, exposes racial disparities in healthcare, and challenges white supremacy. She shares hidden truths, ultimately acknowledging her anger. The novel is like a university final project, blending visual art and surreal elements. The author uses acronyms and footnotes to chronicle Sahara’s experiences as a Black queer woman navigating US college life. The book strikes a powerful and poignant balance, addressing serious themes with insightful commentary and moments of levity.

Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates | Request Now

Staff Picks: Riveting Time Travel Reads

Thu, 09/12/2024 - 9:57am by walkerk

Looking for a thrilling time travel book? Or an interesting take on time loops? You might find your next read in this list. Some of these summaries mention heavier topics, please read with care.

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel | Request Now 
Over the course of three hundred years, three people—an exiled son, a writer, and a childhood friend—witness a strange event: a man playing his violin for change in an echoing corridor of an airship terminal as the trees of a forest rise around him. When Gaspery-Jacques Roberts, a detective in the black-skied Night City, is hired to investigate an anomaly in the North American wilderness, he uncovers a series of lives upended: the exiled son of an earl driven to madness, a writer trapped far from home as a pandemic ravages Earth, and a childhood friend from the Night City who, like Gaspery himself, has glimpsed the chance to do something extraordinary that will disrupt the timeline of the universe.

Sea of Tranquility explores the interconnections between three individuals across centuries. Some readers describe this title as one of the most original time travel books they've read in a while, with its rich characters and ethereal qualities imbuing wonder and prompting reflection on philosophical questions surrounding existence, memory, and the nature of reality.

Staff Picks: Great New Audiobooks of 2024

Fri, 09/06/2024 - 11:01am by eapearce

Audiobooks continue to increase in popularity! The ability to multitask while also listening to a book—cleaning, working out, commuting, etc.—makes this format tempting to many. Talented audiobook readers have also given the format more appeal; it’s not uncommon now for listeners to have favorite readers or to see a famous actor’s name in the reader credits. You can browse tons of e-audiobook selections through the Midwest Collective for Library Services to listen to via Libby and AADL still has a large book on CD collection. Check out one of these popular audiobooks from this year to get you started.

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult, read by a full cast | Request Now
This book comes out on audio on October 8, but it’s already highly anticipated. Picoult is an enduringly popular author and the reading of this title by a full cast is sure to keep listeners riveted. The premise of the story is pretty interesting, too: it centers on two women living centuries apart who are both forced to hide their true identities and live under false names. One, living in 1581, is the true author of Shakespeare’s plays and the other, living in the present day, is struggling to make her own voice heard in the modern theatre world after years of setbacks and being taken advantage of. Picoult bridges the gap between the two timelines, showing the striking similarities between women trying to make their voices heard five hundred years apart. This engaging story is a great one to listen to on audio.

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa, read by Catherine Ho | Request Now

Fabulous Fiction Firsts #843, Second Chances

Sun, 09/01/2024 - 9:29am by muffy

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook),  a “delightfully quirky office comedy” (Publishers Weekly) 

33 year-old Jolene Smith, an administrative assistant at the regional office of Supershop, a Canadian supermarket chain, endures 8-hours of mind-numbing work alongside her insufferable boss and incompetent colleagues, sustained only by copious amounts of gin, vodka and wine, whatever is handy. 

A careless mistake lands her in mandatory anti-harassment training, under the supervision of the new (and very hot) HR guy Cliff. An IT mix-up that is meant to allow Management to monitor her every keystroke, instead grants her access to the entire office’s private emails and DMs. With layoff rumors looming, Jolene realizes this might just be the key to getting revenge and getting ahead in the company. 

“As Jolene gets to know her co-workers better, she sees that they all have their secret heartbreaks and struggles, just like her… A beautiful, honest, and often funny look at loneliness and the courage it takes to simply keep going.” (Kirkus Reviews)  Perfect for fans of Anxious People and Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine. 

The Love of My Afterlife (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook) by Kirsty Greenwood, is “a boisterous death-defying rom-com.” (Publishers Weekly)

27 year-old Delphie Bookham never expects to end up in the afterlife waiting room choked on a microwaveable burger. If that’s not embarrassing enough, she is standing in her 'shine like a star' nightie in front of the hottest man she has ever seen, and their chemistry is undeniable. Unfortunately, he is not meant to be there.  Without hesitation, Delphie makes an impulsive deal with her romance-obsessed afterlife therapist, Merritt: Delphie gets 10 days to return to life and find the mysterious man. If she fails, she will spend eternity as the guinea pig for Merritt's afterlife dating agency.

“Returning to her quiet apartment with only 10 days to change her fate, Delphie learns that finding one's soulmate in the busy streets of London is challenging. More surprising is how Delphie's temporary new lease on life causes her to see her job, her friends, and her neighbors in new ways.” (Library Journal) 

Fans of The Good Place should snap this up.” (Publishers Weekly)

BONUS PICK

Shortlisted for the 2024 Kirkus Prize for Fiction, Margo's Got Money Troubles * * by Rufi Thorpe  (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook) is “a story of friendship, love, and family set in a different part of the big world of cyber-storytelling.” (Kirkus Reviews)

19 year-old Margo Miller, raised by a beauty-obsessed, self-involved single mother has her sights set on being a writer. A very brief affair with her junior college English (married) professor leaves her pregnant. After being fired from her waitressing job, and on the verge of being evicted, she is glad to take in her largely-absent father Jinx, an ex-pro wrestler when he comes knocking, in exchange for childcare. To generate income, Margo explores online porn work by posing on an OnlyFans account. Before she knows it, she has turned it into a runaway success… until her popularity leads to scrutiny and eventually a custody fight. 

“Thorpe infuses the portrayal of Margo and Jinx's relationship with sweetness, and she makes Margo a character to root for as the young mother learns how to support herself with help from her unconventional family.” (Publishers Weekly)

“The title is the only bad thing about this book. Terrific characters, rich worldbuilding, deep thoughts about fiction and morality, a love story, and a happy ending.” (Kirkus Reviews)

* * = 2 starred reviews

Staff Picks: Kids Comics About Dogs

Sat, 08/31/2024 - 5:54pm by nicole

The dog days of summer are over, but here are some graphic novels about dogs that readers can enjoy all year round! These comics feature drawn-out doggy adventures, furry friends, totally real dog facts, and the everyday lives of happy pups!

Dndoggos Vol. 1, Get the Party Started by Scout Underhill | Request Now
Four adorable dogs are tail-waggingly excited to play their favorite role-playing game in DnDoggos: Get the Party Started, the middle grade graphic novel debut from online comic creator Scout Underhill. They've picked their characters and favorite dice, and are ready to set off on the adventure their game master Magnus has created for them. Pickles, a rough and tumble fighter; Tonka, a playful and fun-loving bard; and Zoey, a wise and caring cleric, are given a quest to fetch a magical dog collar from a nearby swamp. But when they triumphantly return, they soon find that the collar isn't the only thing that has gone missing from Tail's Bend. All the squeaky toys in town have disappeared and Squish, the mayor's young son, has set off on his own to find them. It's up to the Doggos to rescue Squish, track down the missing toys, and save the day!

Staff Picks: Science Fiction Highlights

Fri, 08/30/2024 - 2:44pm by lucroe

Enjoy some new and slightly older titles in the science fiction genre at AADL. Here are some award winners and stand out novels worth checking out. Like your sci-fi space operas? We’ve got you covered, as well as some action, suspense, and thoughtfully inspired writing about what the future may present.

These Burning Stars by Bethany Jacobs | Request Now
Jacob’s debut novel and Philip K. Dick Award winner is a tightly woven space opera, the first in a series (2nd volume coming out this Fall). This is set thousands of years after generational ships have left Earth to find habitable planets to settle. They find the start system called Treble and set up a kingdom ruled through three levels of service, the Clerics (religion), the Secretaries (law), and the Cloaksaan (enforcement). The story follows three women, Esek Nightfoot who is a cleric but more Cloaksaan than priest; Jun Ironway a hacker whose family Esek had killed to coverup the Nighfoot involvement in past atrocities; and Six, a former Novitiate of Esek’s who is out to expose her dirty deeds. Esek and fellow cleric, Chono are sent on a mission to recover a memory coin that holds the Nightfoot family secrets. This leads to chase sequences across galaxies, questionable loyalties, and stunning worldbuilding. For fans of Becky Chambers, Ann Leckie, and Elizabeth Bear.

Mercy of Gods by James S. A. Corey | Request Now

Staff Picks: Culinary Mysteries

Tue, 08/27/2024 - 1:39pm by walkerk

Culinary mysteries are centered around food and drink and sometimes the books even come with recipes! I didn't know this was a sub-genre of mystery, and I was thrilled to find more books that fit the bill. If you're interested in trying a good culinary mystery, here's a small list to get you started:

Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala | Request Now
When Lila Macapagal moves back home to recover from a horrible breakup, she's tasked with saving her Tita Rosie's failing restaurant. But when a notoriously nasty food critic (who happens to be her ex-boyfriend) drops dead moments after a confrontation with Lila, her life quickly swerves from a Nora Ephron romp to an Agatha Christie Case. With the cops treating her like she's the one and only suspect, and the shady landlord looking to finally kick the Macapagal family out and resell the storefront, Lila's left with no choice but to conduct her own investigation. 

This is a book that makes you hungry by proxy with mouth-watering descriptions of Filipino food (some of which have recipes available at the end of the book). As the first book in the series, Manansala fills the pages with charismatic locals in a small town, sharp humor that kept readers laughing, well-meaning but interfering relatives, and a warm-hearted friendship between Lila and Adeena. If you like this clever book and want more, the next in the series is Homicide and Halo-Halo.

Staff Picks: New Thrillers

Fri, 08/23/2024 - 2:13pm by eapearce

It has been a great year for mystery and thriller readers! Writers of the ever-popular genres have churned out dozens of page turners all year long, but particularly this summer. If you love books that keep you on the edge of your seat, you’ll want to put a hold on some of these new-to-the-shelves titles that you won’t be able to put down until you turn the last page. 

You Will Never Be Me, by Jesse Sutanto | Request Now
Meredith Lee is an influencer who shares her perfectly curated life fans via viral videos and posts on social media. She’s so good at what she does that she even teaches other women how to become influencers themselves. That’s what Meredith helped Aspen Palmer with, and to great success. The only problem is, Meredith taught Aspen so well that Aspen no longer needs her, which makes Meredith less than pleased. Hoping to sabotage Aspen’s flourishing influencer career, Meredith starts following her, looking for any cracks in her facade. When Meredith unexpectedly gains access to Aspen’s family calendar and social media accounts, she starts tweaking things here and there… to disastrous results for a confused Aspen. Aspen is determined to figure out who’s ruining her life, but figuring out Meredith’s role in her demise is only the start of this twisty thriller. You’ll have to read it to find out more!

Staff Picks: Otherworldly Romance

Mon, 08/19/2024 - 3:32pm by lucroe

As the summer winds down, you may be in the mood for some easy pleasing romance with a bit of the supernatural or fantasy thrown in the mix. Below are a few favorites with plenty of other paranormal romances on our site that can be found here.

The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston | Request Now
A romance ghostwriter who can see ghosts!? Sounds silly but in this paranormal romance, it is just this quirkiness along with the cast of delightful characters that keeps you wanting to read more. Florence is the ghost writer/observer which is well-known in her community. When her dad dies, then her editor/love interest, Ben dies mysteriously, she is both shocked and grief-stricken. With Ben’s ghost following her around, she is determined to help him with some unfinished business while navigating her eccentric family and of course dealing with the loss of her father. This book is all about love, not just the romantic kind, but of family that are there to support each other through difficult times. The second chance at romance is just part of the charm.

Staff Picks: New Teen Vampire Fiction

Sat, 08/17/2024 - 5:43pm by nicole

If you're looking for a paranormal read with some bite to it, here are some of AADL's newest vampire stories for teens!

Sign of the Slayer by Sharina Harris | Request Now
When some of Raven's fellow marching-band members are killed by vampires, she reluctantly discovers she is a slayer. Now she's at a slayer academy, learning things like the origin of vampires and how to make serious weapons out of thin air. Raven is determined to get revenge, but then she meets Khamari. He's intelligent and reasonable...and turns out to be the actual vampire prince. He knows things about Raven that could change everything-- and he's also hiding something big, even from his own kind. Now, with the whole world at stake, Raven and Khamari have to team up and take down an ancient evil. This story is perfect for readers who like dark academia!

Staff Picks: Unique Perspectives on Travel

Tue, 08/13/2024 - 2:37pm by eapearce

Travelogues don't just have to be a recounting of the traveler's experiences and itinerary on a given trip; there are so many ways to travel and so many unique perspectives on the experience of doing so. Check out some of these books that offer both guidance and musings on the art of exploring the world.

Around the World in 80 Books, by David Damrosch | Request Now
Damrosch, professor of Comparative Literature at Harvard and the Director of the Institute for World Literature, transports readers around the globe with selections of both classic and modern literature from a variety of countries. Inspired to write this book during the pandemic, when travel was highly restricted, Damrosch decided to get his travel fix by virtual global exploration through reading and literary analysis. He explores how works from around the globe shape both our view of other places and our views of our own homes. The wide range of books he explores — from classics by Virginia Woolfe and Dante, to more recent Nobel Prize-winning works by Olga Tokarczuk, Orhan Pamuk and Mo Yan, to crime fiction and fantasy epics — offer a thoughtful perspective on global problems as well as issues rooted firmly in their own time and location. Around the World in 80 Books is a “global invitation to look beyond ourselves and our surroundings, and to see our world and its literature in new ways.”

100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas, by Joseph Yogerst | Request Now

Staff Picks: Queer Young Adult Fantasy Graphic Novels

Tue, 08/13/2024 - 12:24pm by walkerk

If you're looking for another queer, fantasy-themed graphic novel to read—similar to Nimona by ND Stevenson, The Pirate and the Porcelain Girl by Emily Riesbeck, Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker, or Wynd. by James Tynion IV—you might find your next read in this little list! 

Brooms by Jasmine Walls | Request Now
It's 1930s Mississippi: Magic simmers beneath the surface, kept in check by unjust laws and societal expectations, which only allow magic to be used in certain situations, and by certain people. But for six extraordinary women, the roar of enchanted engines and the thrill of the forbidden broom race offers a chance to rewrite their destinies. 

Frequently described as the kind of story that sticks with you long after you read it, Brooms is a fun, uplifting, heart-pounding graphic novel soaring with magic, found family, and rebellion—like Fast and the Furious with broomsticks instead of cars. This cast of characters is incredibly diverse, with queer, trans, disability, and POC representation. And beautifully, it features queer people of color experiencing a happy ending in a historical fiction.

Fabulous Fiction Firsts #842

Tue, 08/06/2024 - 10:25am by muffy

Ferdia Lennon’s Glorious Exploits * * * (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook) is the 2024 winner of the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize. One of the judges called it “a riotous, exuberant treat of a novel, which celebrates the redemptive power of art, … madly ambitious and devastatingly affecting, but above all pure page-turning joy from start to finish.’’ 

412 BCE, Syracuse, Sicily. At the height of the Peloponnesian War, thousands of Athenian soldiers from a failed invasion were held prisoners in the limestone quarries on the outskirts of the city. Starved and left to broil in the relentless sun, the Athenians were eager to participate when 2 young Sicilians hatched an outrageous scheme. 

Our narrator, 30 year-old Lampo and his friend Gelon, two directionless, unemployed potters with a soft spot for poetry and wine, were admirers of the great playwright Euripides. To pass the time, they frequented the quarries, offering food in exchange for a few lines of poetry. Then the friends decided to enlist the prisoners in a full-blown production of Medea and The Trojan Women.  

“Glorious Exploits, is very much a story about the power of stories - and the spiritual and emotional succour they give.” (The Guardian)

“Exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the toll of war, Lennon evokes a time when it was common to relish and revere the art of Homer's poetry and Euripides' drama. Those with that appetite today are fortunate to have Madeline Miller, Emily Wilson, Pat Barker, and recently James Hynes' Sparrow. And Lennon. An entertaining and impressive debut.” (Kirkus Reviews)

 * * * = 3 starred reviews

Staff Picks: Hot Weather Cookbooks

Mon, 08/05/2024 - 1:17pm by eapearce

Ah, August. A month for enjoying all that summer has to offer before the weather starts getting cooler, the days get shorter, kids head back to school and we all transition to fall. One thing you might want to avoid during the hot August days is turning on your oven! It’s a month of fresh fruit and veggies, easy grill-able dinners, and simple recipes that don’t keep cooks in the kitchen for too long. Check out recipes from some of these cookbooks that will give you ideas for things to make that don’t involve standing over a hot stove making the air conditioning work even harder.

The Vegetable Eater, by Cara Mangini | Request Now

Cara Mangini loves vegetables and her bright, delicious ideas for preparing them and incorporating them into a variety of dishes make this cookbook a great one to have on hand. Organized into sections by the type of dish you’re preparing (salads, bowls, tacos, etc), this book makes eating veggie-forward meals simple and easy. Handy kitchen and cooking tips, like how to segment an orange, or different ways to cut carrots are a nice addition, too. Got extra vegetables from your garden or CSA? You’ll surely be able to find a way to use them up in The Vegetable Eater!

Staff Picks: Unique Epistolary Reads

Mon, 08/05/2024 - 10:47am by walkerk

Epistolary books are works of fiction told through letters and other documents. They can make for a very intimate and human reading experience, as these letters and documents allow the reader to peer into the firsthand, personal experience and thoughts of one, or a handful, of characters. If you enjoyed Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone, or House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski, you might find your next epistolary read in this list.

The Incarnations by Susan Barker | Request Now  

Staff Picks: Music History Graphic Novels

Sat, 08/03/2024 - 1:53pm by nicole

Music, art, and history all combine in these nonfiction graphic novels that explore the backstories of bands and musicians. Read about the search for The Sound, rock 'n' roll parties, and even the birth of rap!

Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound by Dave Chisholm | Request Now

With narration adapted from Davis' own words and an innovative visual style that shifts to reflect Davis' constant musical changes, this 150-page graphic novel follows Davis through four decades of musical innovation, all centered around his quest to find a mysterious sound he heard on a moonlit country road as a child.

Staff Picks: Captivating Climate Fiction Reads

Wed, 07/24/2024 - 10:10am by walkerk

If you've read Octavia Butler's Parable of the Sower and wondered where to find more stories like that, I have great news: climate fiction is for you! Climate fiction (cli-fi) comes in many forms—some narratives explore dystopian futures and their methods of dealing with environmental collapse. Other narratives focus on the present personal and societal impacts. Alongside engaging characters to empathize with, these diverse stories often explore potential consequences and solutions around climate change. Here are four titles to get you started:

The Moonday Letters by Emmi Itäranta | Request Now
Lumi is an Earth-born healer whose Mars-born spouse, Sol, disappears unexpectedly on a work trip. Lumi sets out to find them, searching the wealthy colonies of Mars, and the remnants of Earth, which were ruined by vast environmental destruction. Each clue she uncovers leads to another mystery, be it about herself, Sol, or an underground environmental group called the Stoneturners, who might have something to do with Sol's disappearance. 

This climate fiction thriller with an LGBTQIA love story is told through a series of letters and extracts, such as newspaper quotes and encyclopedic entries, making for a poetic and anthropologic experience that offers you a front-row seat to this adventure. Readers have described this as an enchanting and lyrically written story with a sense of wonder and hope among its dystopian features. If you enjoy the gentle and human quality of letter reading, paired with interplanetary lovers and explorations of environmental ethics, myth, and a mystery that slowly unravels, this is the book for you.

Fabulous Fiction Firsts #841

Tue, 07/23/2024 - 4:03pm by muffy

The Ministry of Time * *  by British-Cambodian writer Kaliane Bradley (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook) is a “fantastical combination of time-travel novel, spy thriller and slow-burn romance.” (BookPage) 

Near future, London. An unnamed translator for Britain's Ministry of Defence is offered a plum appointment in a secret government project that gathers “expats” from across history, in a time-travel experiment.  Our narrator’s task is to act as a “bridge”, assisting and orienting her assigned expat to resettle in the 21st-century. 

Her charge, known as "1847" or Commander Graham Gore died on Sir John Franklin's doomed 1845 expedition to the Arctic, arriving in the future sometime before his death, thus finding himself disoriented to be surrounded by outlandish concepts such as "washing machines," "Spotify," and the collapse of the British Empire. Over the next year, what began as a horrifically uncomfortable roommate dynamic evolves into something much deeper.   By the time the true shape of the Ministry's project comes to light, the bridge has fallen haphazardly, fervently in love, with consequences she never could have imagined. 

“... while this quasi-futuristic tale of time and tenderness never seems to take itself too seriously, it also offers a meaningful, nuanced perspective on the challenges we face, the choices we make, and the way we live and love today. This rip-roaring romp pivots between past and present and posits the future-altering power of love, hope, and forgiveness. “ (Kirkus Reviews)

For fans of The Time Traveler's Wife (2003) by Audrey Niffenegger , and Time After Time (2019) by Lisa Grunwald.

* * = 2 starred reviews

Staff Picks: Spotlight on Science

Sun, 07/21/2024 - 4:25pm by lucroe

These science-based books may not be your usual summer beach reads, but they might open your mind to some new ideas, under-appreciated history, and greater respect for the world and its human and non-human inhabitants.

Weight of Nature: How a Changing Climate Changes Our Brains by Clayton Page Aldern | Request Now

This beautifully written piece examines the profound emotional and physical impacts of climate change on our planet, our personal health, and our perception of the fragility of the world we inhabit. Aldern, journalist and former neuroscientist, has researched how climate change has and will continue to affect humans from the inside out. He has gathered the most current information about for example trauma from extreme weather events that has changed the structure of the brain even in fetuses and how extremely high temps can make some people more aggressive and impulsive. An interesting and sometimes disturbing read.

Staff Picks: Kids Comics About Displacement

Sat, 07/20/2024 - 12:53pm by nicole

When the place you call home is taken away, where do you go? These stories follow kids from all over the world who have been displaced, and their journeys to find home in a new place.

Stealing Home by J. Torres | Request Now

Sandy Saito looks back to his childhood in 1940s Vancouver when he was eight years old. He's a happy kid: he goes to school, reads comic books, and is obsessed with baseball -- especially the Asahi baseball team, the pride of the Japanese-Canadian community. Then the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor -- and everything changes. The kids Sandy used to play with every day now call him names and chase him from the playground. He and his family are no longer permitted to go outside at night or visit certain areas of the city. Japanese Canadians are stripped of their rights, their jobs, and their homes, and soon the government begins to round up Japanese families, sending them to internment camps. It isn't long before Sandy's family is among them. David Namisato's detailed art depicts the 1940s setting with cultural and historical precision, following Sandy and his family as they are forced to leave their home and relocate to a prison camp comprised of crowded, makeshift barracks in a remote site without electricity or running water. The theme of baseball, Sandy's favorite sport, adds a message of hope and renewal to this historically accurate portrayal of a grave chapter in both Canadian and American history.

Staff Picks: Summertime Watch Party

Tue, 07/09/2024 - 11:02am by lucroe

When the Summer heat gets to be too much, it may be time to head indoors and enjoy a movie or TV show from AADL’s excellent DVD & Blu-ray collection. Here are a few things to consider watching whether you are into romance or a bit of action, we have something for everyone!

Past Lives directed by Celine Song | Request Now

Childhood friends Nora (Greta Lee) and Hae Sung (Teo Yoo) shared a special bond in Seoul until Nora's family abruptly emigrated from South Korea. Years later, their paths cross again in New York, where Nora has established a life as a married playwright. As they revisit their past, the encounter forces them to confront the what-ifs of their relationship. Greta Lee delivers a magnetic performance in this vivid tale of love and friendship that captures the defining moments of a life. Meanwhile, Celine Song's directorial debut is one of the most memorable in recent years.

Fabulous Fiction Firsts #840, Water Fantasies

Mon, 07/08/2024 - 9:53pm by muffy

Inspired by East Asian mythology, Fathomfolk,*  first in the Drowned World series by Eliza Chan, (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook) is set in the semi-submerged city of Tiankawin where fathomfolks (sirens, seawitches, and kelpies) co-exist with humans. 

The novel opens with Mira, the newly promoted captain of the border guard, and the first female half-siren to reach the rank, intends to earn the trust and respect of her human colleagues despite centuries of prejudice and discrimination. Together with her partner, Kai, a water dragon from one of the few privileged fathomfolk families, they hope to bring reforms in the human-controlled government. But everything they work towards is put in jeopardy when Nami, Kai’s rebellious sister is banished to Tiankawi and falls in with a rebel group known as the Drawbacks. 

When the annual boat festival is sabotaged and humans are drowned, the government cracks down even further on fathomfolk rights. Mira and Nami find they must work together to save their city and their communities. 

“Chan floats beautifully between multiple point-of-view characters, and also between different facets of Tiankawi life, from the poor to the privileged. From Nami's well-meaning immaturity to Mira's complicated feelings about her dual identity, all the characters have fully realized perspectives and goals that clash with each other in both clever political plots and exciting action scenes.” (Kirkus Reviews)

A Letter to the Luminous Deep * * by Sylvie Cathrall (also in downloadable eBook and audiobook) is a captivating tale of mystery and romance set in an enchanting underwater society.

The year is 1002, a thousand years after an event known as "the Dive," where sky dwellers now live in the ocean. E. Cidnosin, an introverted and anxious young woman is the sole caretaker of “Deep House”, an architectural marvel designed by her mother. Spying a mysterious sea creature outside her window prompts E. to begin a correspondence with renowned marine scholar Henerey Clel, hoping he will help her identify it. The letters they share are filled with passion, at first for their mutual interests, and then, inevitably, for each other. Then E. and Henerey disappear after an explosion at Deep House. A year later, E.'s sister Sophy, and Henerey's brother Vyerin, are left to solve the mystery. 

As Sophy and Vyerin delve into the letters left behind by E. and Henerey, they uncover clues about their relationship and the events leading up to their disappearance. Through these letters, a tale of love, friendship, and secrets unfolds, captivating readers with its whimsical charm and intriguing plot twist. “Cathrall skillfully addresses themes of mental health and anxiety, adding depth and authenticity to the characters' experiences. With its cozy-fantasy atmosphere and rich character development, A Letter to the Luminous Deep will appeal to fans of epistolary novels and readers who enjoy stories with elements of romance, mystery, and fantasy.” (Booklist) A late confession by Arvist, E. and Sophy's brother hints at further mysteries to be solved in a sequel.

A charming fantasy set in an underwater world with magical academia and a heartwarming penpal romance, perfect for fans of A Marvellous Light, Emily Wilde's Encylopaedia of Faeries and The House in the Cerulean Sea. 

 * * = 2 starred reviews

* = Starred review

Staff Picks: Teen Fiction by Indigenous American Authors

Sat, 07/06/2024 - 2:00pm by nicole

Here are a few great Teen books by Indigenous American authors from across several genres, including fantasy, mystery, and sci-fi.

A Snake Falls to Earth by Darcie Little Badger | Request Now

Nina is a Lipan girl in our world. She's always felt there was something more out there. She still believes in the old stories. Oli is a cottonmouth kid, from the land of spirits and monsters. Like all cottonmouths, he's been cast from home. He's found a new one on the banks of the bottomless lake. Nina and Oli have no idea the other exists. But a catastrophic event on Earth, and a strange sickness that befalls Oli's best friend, will drive their worlds together in ways they haven't been in centuries. And there are some who will kill to keep them apart.

Staff Picks: Get Excited for Big New Releases This Summer!

Fri, 07/05/2024 - 12:57pm by eapearce

It’s that time of the summer when lots of big new releases are coming out! Many of these titles have been long-anticipated by readers and you might want to get on the hold list to get your hands on a copy! One thing to note: some of these titles are getting published in a few short weeks, so AADL does not yet have copies—but you can still put your name on the list and once the books are published and shipped, we’ll get them into the hands of our patrons!

Long Island Compromise, by Taffy Brodesser-Akner | Request Now

This just-released title, by the author of Fleishman Is In Trouble, details the unusual saga of a Jewish family in New York over the past four decades. The book opens in 1983, when wealthy businessman Carl Fletcher is kidnapped from his driveway, tortured and held for ransom. Upon his return to his family a week later, they all begin the work of recovering from the trauma and moving on with their lives. Forty years later, when Carl’s mother dies and the family reunites to mourn her, it becomes clear that no matter how hard they might have tried to forget the past, no one really got over anything. Carl’s wife Ruth has spent every day since the kidnapping working to protect and heal her husband at her own emotional expense. Ruth and Carl’s three grown children are all a mess in their own ways, and Carl himself still lives in fear over what happened to him. Will Carl and his family ever be able to find closure? Though their enormous wealth is ultimately what saved Carl’s life, isn’t it also what put him in danger in the first place? Was it worth it? Readers will find themselves immersed in the Fletchers’ lives, eagerly turning the pages to see how everything turns out.

Staff Picks: Cool Drinks & Treats For the Summer

Mon, 06/24/2024 - 12:21pm by lucroe

This summer is already heating up so why not take the time to make some cool drinks and frozen desserts. These books have some creative combinations for both alcohol-free and alcoholic drinks, as well as some healthy sips and indulgent frozen treats.

Chill: Smoothies, Slushes, Shakes, Juices, Drinks & Ices by Cooking Light | Request Now

Looking for some variety in your refreshing summertime drinks? This book has great recipes, clear guidelines, and excellent low-calorie drinks for cooling off this summer. One such low-calorie strawberry smoothie has 200 calories, 2 grams of saturated fat, and less than 25 grams of sugar from naturally occurring sources: fruit, low-fat dairy, and honey. There are also lighter slushes, and cool ices packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, low-fat dairy, and natural sweeteners. There’s a delicious protein-packed banana breakfast smoothie, fresh juices with vegetables and fruit as well as options for kids that help control the sugar intake. Enjoy a refreshing and healthy beverage this summer with ideas from this book!

Staff Picks: Check Out These Cool Board Games from AADL!

Mon, 06/24/2024 - 10:58am by eapearce

Did you know that AADL offers board games for checkout? You can peruse a wide variety of popular—and more obscure—games in our collection and take some home to try out! Not sure where to start? Read on for some of our suggestions!

Ticket To Ride | Request Now

The object of this game, which can support two to five players, is to complete train routes across the United States to earn points faster than your opponents complete their own routes. To start, players draw route cards dictating what routes they must attempt to build, then strategize the most efficient way to accomplish completing the routes. Players can always draw more route cards as the game goes on—but beware: points are lost for routes not completed! The premise is made more fun by building routes that get in other players’ way, stealing routes or positions from other players, and trying to hit particular cities as you build your routes. Though it takes a little bit to become super skilled at the game, most players over the age of ten or so can learn in fifteen minutes or less.