Weekly book reviews in most genres, including classics and not-to-be-missed. Books selected and reviews written by a librarian specializing in readers’ advisory.
A novel of letters and emails written by and to Sybil Stone Van Antwerp, a woman in the last decade of her life, seeking to resolve deep grief, loss, and help those she cares for. Best of the year, IMHO.
Read MoreThe fifth in the Cameron Winter Mystery series, Winter finds love, and a past case finds him, threatening his newfound stability and peace. Well written, highly suspenseful with great plotting and propulsive action.
Read MoreDystopian nightmare set in the near future, where corporate interests treat individuals as data for profit, and people surrender freedom for security. Well written, and so easy to see it all happening. One of the best of 2025.
Read MoreInstructive and entertaining, Amy Coney Barrett reveals the human and thoughtful work of the Supreme Court, in this important book.
Read MoreAnother educational lark with Mary Roach, this time to learn the science and practice of replacing human body parts. Not to be missed.
Read MoreJoyce, Elizabeth, Ibrahim, and Ron return with another exciting, entertaining mystery, the fifth in the series. Be sure to watch The Thursday Murder Club movie on Netflix, too.
Read MoreA coming-of-age novel, with two deep loves, a grievous loss, and a mystery all entwined. Well-crafted novel, a stand-out.
Read MoreFor a sensitive, complete report of this tragedy, the individuals lost, the perpetrator, and the community of family and friends impacted, this is the book to read.
Read MoreWhether you love him or hate him, it is important to learn the facts, and read various viewpoints. Bring an open mind to this book, then draw your own conclusions.
Read MoreHistorical fiction, with interesting characters and themes, a novel bringing life to the Age of Exploration.
Read MoreA meditative book, following the year week by week, with natural observations, and life lessons. Enjoy Renkl’s beautiful writing.
Read MoreMany other creatives offer prompts for journaling, but none from Jaouad herself? Read my review, and tell me if you agree or disagree with my assessment.
Read MoreAtmosphere is about the birth of the space shuttle program, the women fighting for their place in space, and a love story. Another TJR page turner.
Read MoreFascinating science fiction novel exploring AI and augmented technology, and what their rapid adoption may mean for humanity, all wrapped around a strong female protagonist. Highly recommended.
Read MoreWhen blue liberal David Litt seeks improved mental health through surfing, he has an opportunity to learn about how red conservatives see the world from his brother-in-law, Matt. He doesn’t quite get there, but at least opens the door, in this funny memoir.
Read MoreBestselling historical fiction author Kate Quinn educates and intrigues with this group of women in the 1950s Washington, DC area, each striving to figure out her life, improve her circumstances, while supporting each other. Excellent read.
Read MoreA coming of age story, that helps explain the value of art to lift lives, and give meaning and purpose. Also, the importance of friends, at all ages.
Read MoreA science fiction, suspenseful novel about time travel, the purpose and meaning of memories, with a female, eighty-something protagonist. Great summer adventure reading.
Read MoreFollow the saga of the Hill half siblings, traveling cross country to meet each other, and confront the father that abandoned each of them at about ten years old. Another witty, heart warming novel from a favorite author.
Read MoreA compilation of short biographies, told with skillful storytelling and interesting detail, describing the humble contributions of ordinary Americans to making our country stronger and better for all.
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