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Staff Picks: What We Loved in 2024

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SurreyLibraries_Reads

Surrey Libraries

Staff-created list

SurreyLibraries_Reads - See Surrey Libraries staff favourites from the collection.

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Surrey Libraries

1-25 of 46 items

1-25 of 46 items

The Singapore Story

The Singapore Story

Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew

by Lee, Kuan Yew

eBook - 2014

He is charismatic and good at telling stories. You can learn a lot from him even if you disagree with some of his opinions. Thousand pages – good luck! (Submitted by Andy) He is charismatic and good at telling stories. You can learn a lot from him even if you disagree with some of his opinions. Thousand pages – good luck! (Submitted by Andy) Show less

He is charismatic and good at telling stories. You can learn a lot from him even if you disagree with some of his opinions. Thousand pages – good luck! (Submitted by Andy) He is charismatic and good at telling stories. You can learn a lot from him even if you disagree with some of his opinions. Thousand pages – good luck! (Submitted by Andy) Show less

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The Spirit Bares Its Teeth

The Spirit Bares Its Teeth

by White, Andrew Joseph

Book - 2023

Set in an imagined Victorian era where violet-eyed people can speak to and control the dead, a violet-eyed transgender boy named Silas is sent to a finish...Show more Set in an imagined Victorian era where violet-eyed people can speak to and control the dead, a violet-eyed transgender boy named Silas is sent to a finishing school designed to turn him into the perfect wife. But there are secrets hiding in the dark underbelly of the school, and Silas will have to use every bit of knowledge and courage he has to save himself and the other students. A dark, bloody, and ultimately hopeful read (Submitted by Al) Show less

Set in an imagined Victorian era where violet-eyed people can speak to and control the dead, a violet-eyed transgender boy named Silas is sent to a finish...Show more Set in an imagined Victorian era where violet-eyed people can speak to and control the dead, a violet-eyed transgender boy named Silas is sent to a finishing school designed to turn him into the perfect wife. But there are secrets hiding in the dark underbelly of the school, and Silas will have to use every bit of knowledge and courage he has to save himself and the other students. A dark, bloody, and ultimately hopeful read (Submitted by Al) Show less

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The Art of Taking It Easy

The Art of Taking It Easy

How to Cope With Bears, Traffic, and the Rest of Life's Stressors

by King, Brian

Book - 2019

"The Art of Taking It Easy" by Brian King is a refreshing exploration of the importance of relaxation and the benefits of slowing down in a fast...Show more "The Art of Taking It Easy" by Brian King is a refreshing exploration of the importance of relaxation and the benefits of slowing down in a fast-paced world. I enjoyed King's humor that he combined with practical advice, encouraging readers to embrace simplicity and mindfulness. He discusses the psychological and physical advantages of adopting a laid-back approach, such as reduced stress and improved creativity. In this book, King says, "if you are stressing out about being happy, you are doing it wrong!" Happiness often comes more naturally when we let go of expectations and focus on enjoying the moment! (Submitted by Museera) Show less

"The Art of Taking It Easy" by Brian King is a refreshing exploration of the importance of relaxation and the benefits of slowing down in a fast...Show more "The Art of Taking It Easy" by Brian King is a refreshing exploration of the importance of relaxation and the benefits of slowing down in a fast-paced world. I enjoyed King's humor that he combined with practical advice, encouraging readers to embrace simplicity and mindfulness. He discusses the psychological and physical advantages of adopting a laid-back approach, such as reduced stress and improved creativity. In this book, King says, "if you are stressing out about being happy, you are doing it wrong!" Happiness often comes more naturally when we let go of expectations and focus on enjoying the moment! (Submitted by Museera) Show less

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Light From Uncommon Stars

Light From Uncommon Stars

by Aoki, Ryka

Book - 2021

Can you combine a story that involves a transgender teen violinist escaping a violent home and unwelcome city with a violin teacher who has sold her soul ...Show more Can you combine a story that involves a transgender teen violinist escaping a violent home and unwelcome city with a violin teacher who has sold her soul to the devil and can only reclaim it with seven other souls, and an alien family who escaping war in their own galaxy, landed here and bought a Doughnut Shop? If you are Aoki, you can, and you can do it brilliantly. Katrina Nguyen has escaped her brutal home life, fleeing with her escape bag and her violin, but the person she fled to was cold comfort. Practising her violin on a park bench, the lady sitting next to her astonished her by offering to teach her to play. But when you have been taught by experience to mistrust everyone, how can Katrina trust enough to learn? And the teacher, Shizuka Satomi has had 6 amazing students whose lives all ended in tragedy, so perhaps she shouldn’t be trusted in the first place. And can doughnuts save people? Or save souls? Or save lives? What do alien life forms truly look like? What is truth and what is being true to yourself? This is a beautiful love story of a completely different kind (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

Can you combine a story that involves a transgender teen violinist escaping a violent home and unwelcome city with a violin teacher who has sold her soul ...Show more Can you combine a story that involves a transgender teen violinist escaping a violent home and unwelcome city with a violin teacher who has sold her soul to the devil and can only reclaim it with seven other souls, and an alien family who escaping war in their own galaxy, landed here and bought a Doughnut Shop? If you are Aoki, you can, and you can do it brilliantly. Katrina Nguyen has escaped her brutal home life, fleeing with her escape bag and her violin, but the person she fled to was cold comfort. Practising her violin on a park bench, the lady sitting next to her astonished her by offering to teach her to play. But when you have been taught by experience to mistrust everyone, how can Katrina trust enough to learn? And the teacher, Shizuka Satomi has had 6 amazing students whose lives all ended in tragedy, so perhaps she shouldn’t be trusted in the first place. And can doughnuts save people? Or save souls? Or save lives? What do alien life forms truly look like? What is truth and what is being true to yourself? This is a beautiful love story of a completely different kind (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

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The Change

The Change

A Novel

by Miller, Kirsten

Book - 2022

Menopause brings more gains than losses for three women in this entertaining thriller. When menopause arrives for the three women who are the protagonists...Show more Menopause brings more gains than losses for three women in this entertaining thriller. When menopause arrives for the three women who are the protagonists in this book, they don’t bother with estrogen therapy or worry about chin hairs. They develop superpowers. The novel takes on serious issues but doesn’t take itself too seriously; there’s plenty of mordant humor, a suspenseful plot, and mostly brisk pacing. Crime fiction, superpower fantasy, and sharp satire about sexism and ageism mesh for a satisfying read (Submitted by Arleigh). Show less

Menopause brings more gains than losses for three women in this entertaining thriller. When menopause arrives for the three women who are the protagonists...Show more Menopause brings more gains than losses for three women in this entertaining thriller. When menopause arrives for the three women who are the protagonists in this book, they don’t bother with estrogen therapy or worry about chin hairs. They develop superpowers. The novel takes on serious issues but doesn’t take itself too seriously; there’s plenty of mordant humor, a suspenseful plot, and mostly brisk pacing. Crime fiction, superpower fantasy, and sharp satire about sexism and ageism mesh for a satisfying read (Submitted by Arleigh). Show less

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The Forty Rules of Love

The Forty Rules of Love

by Shafak, Elif

Book - 2010

This is a story of Rumi (scholar, cleric and teacher) which takes place centuries ago in what is now known as Turkey. It is also the story of Ella, an or...Show more This is a story of Rumi (scholar, cleric and teacher) which takes place centuries ago in what is now known as Turkey. It is also the story of Ella, an ordinary forty-year-old housewife with a routine life and unhappy marriage, in present day U.S.A. The two stories connect when Ella takes on the job of reading a book about Rumi’s life, which eventually leads her to re-discover the meaning of love. Rumi meets Shams, a wandering dervish, who inspires him to live and teach more from the heart, through mysticism and poetry. Ella meets Aziz, a free-spirited author, who inspires her to live more freely. Modern and historical, Eastern and Western perspectives are intertwined through shared themes and experiences throughout the book. The book is about love, seen through the eyes of each character and through an ancient philosophy that speaks about the “presence of love in each and every one of us”. The book was chosen by BBC among the 100 Novels that Shaped Our World. The author, Elif Shafak, is an award-winning British Turkish novelist whose work has been translated into 58 languages (Submitted by Idil) Show less

This is a story of Rumi (scholar, cleric and teacher) which takes place centuries ago in what is now known as Turkey. It is also the story of Ella, an or...Show more This is a story of Rumi (scholar, cleric and teacher) which takes place centuries ago in what is now known as Turkey. It is also the story of Ella, an ordinary forty-year-old housewife with a routine life and unhappy marriage, in present day U.S.A. The two stories connect when Ella takes on the job of reading a book about Rumi’s life, which eventually leads her to re-discover the meaning of love. Rumi meets Shams, a wandering dervish, who inspires him to live and teach more from the heart, through mysticism and poetry. Ella meets Aziz, a free-spirited author, who inspires her to live more freely. Modern and historical, Eastern and Western perspectives are intertwined through shared themes and experiences throughout the book. The book is about love, seen through the eyes of each character and through an ancient philosophy that speaks about the “presence of love in each and every one of us”. The book was chosen by BBC among the 100 Novels that Shaped Our World. The author, Elif Shafak, is an award-winning British Turkish novelist whose work has been translated into 58 languages (Submitted by Idil) Show less

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Happiness

Happiness

Book - 2017

"This wonderful and informative book explores the multifaceted nature of happiness in both personal and professional contexts. It delves into the sci...Show more "This wonderful and informative book explores the multifaceted nature of happiness in both personal and professional contexts. It delves into the science behind well-being, emphasizing that true happiness stems from a combination of meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, and the ability to cultivate gratitude. I was introduced to practical insights, highlighting the importance of work-life balance and the impact of a positive workplace culture on overall happiness. My favourite quote from this book is: "Happiness is not the absence of suffering; it's the ability to rebound from it." This is because it resonates not only with workplace positivity, but also life as a whole (Submitted by Museera) Show less

"This wonderful and informative book explores the multifaceted nature of happiness in both personal and professional contexts. It delves into the sci...Show more "This wonderful and informative book explores the multifaceted nature of happiness in both personal and professional contexts. It delves into the science behind well-being, emphasizing that true happiness stems from a combination of meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, and the ability to cultivate gratitude. I was introduced to practical insights, highlighting the importance of work-life balance and the impact of a positive workplace culture on overall happiness. My favourite quote from this book is: "Happiness is not the absence of suffering; it's the ability to rebound from it." This is because it resonates not only with workplace positivity, but also life as a whole (Submitted by Museera) Show less

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The Annotated Archy and Mehitabel

The Annotated Archy and Mehitabel

by Marquis, Don

Book - 2006

unique perspective, very playful, appreciates poetry in a different way, challenges your understanding of what literature is or should be (Submitted by Eric) unique perspective, very playful, appreciates poetry in a different way, challenges your understanding of what literature is or should be (Submitted by Eric) Show less

unique perspective, very playful, appreciates poetry in a different way, challenges your understanding of what literature is or should be (Submitted by Eric) unique perspective, very playful, appreciates poetry in a different way, challenges your understanding of what literature is or should be (Submitted by Eric) Show less

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The Bone Shard Daughter

The Bone Shard Daughter

by Stewart, Andrea

Book - 2020

Lin is the daughter of the Emperor but her ascension to the throne is a battle. Her Father chose another boy (Bayan) as a possible alternate heir, and the...Show more Lin is the daughter of the Emperor but her ascension to the throne is a battle. Her Father chose another boy (Bayan) as a possible alternate heir, and the two vie for the Emperor’s knowledge and magical skills, which he doles out in dribs and drabs. The Emperor has the power to make magical constructs, using animal bodies and a shard of bone. At the age of 8, all children have a small shard of bone chiseled from their skull. This shard is then used by the Emperor to make the construct live and breath and obey commands. Jovi is a smuggler who is searching for his missing wife, who was taken aboard a black boat with blue sails 8 years ago. His mission keeps getting interrupted when he saves people, leading him to an interesting new companion. Sand lives on an island, but doesn’t know who she is, why she is there, or how she got there. It’s the same for the other people with her. Phalue is the daughter of a governor of one of the many islands under the Emperor’s rule. She knows that her father isn’t a good governor, and her love Ranami is constantly telling her about the hardships of the commoners. Phalue knows that something has to change but isn’t sure how. These disparate character stories, told in alternating chapters, weave into a fascinating story of challenge, obstacles, greed, honour and magic. It is a fabulous story to get lost in (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

Lin is the daughter of the Emperor but her ascension to the throne is a battle. Her Father chose another boy (Bayan) as a possible alternate heir, and the...Show more Lin is the daughter of the Emperor but her ascension to the throne is a battle. Her Father chose another boy (Bayan) as a possible alternate heir, and the two vie for the Emperor’s knowledge and magical skills, which he doles out in dribs and drabs. The Emperor has the power to make magical constructs, using animal bodies and a shard of bone. At the age of 8, all children have a small shard of bone chiseled from their skull. This shard is then used by the Emperor to make the construct live and breath and obey commands. Jovi is a smuggler who is searching for his missing wife, who was taken aboard a black boat with blue sails 8 years ago. His mission keeps getting interrupted when he saves people, leading him to an interesting new companion. Sand lives on an island, but doesn’t know who she is, why she is there, or how she got there. It’s the same for the other people with her. Phalue is the daughter of a governor of one of the many islands under the Emperor’s rule. She knows that her father isn’t a good governor, and her love Ranami is constantly telling her about the hardships of the commoners. Phalue knows that something has to change but isn’t sure how. These disparate character stories, told in alternating chapters, weave into a fascinating story of challenge, obstacles, greed, honour and magic. It is a fabulous story to get lost in (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

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Garden Spells

Garden Spells

by Allen, Sarah Addison

eBook - 2007

A light, feel-good read in the magical realism genre. I read this book on the Libby app on my phone while I was traveling in Georgia and South Carolina w...Show more A light, feel-good read in the magical realism genre. I read this book on the Libby app on my phone while I was traveling in Georgia and South Carolina with my family. This is a story about magic and family and acceptance. Claire and Sydney Waverley are sisters who had very different reactions to being raised by their reclusive grandmother in a small North Carolina town. Sydney left as soon as she could, and Claire stayed to learn all about her grandmother's magical cooking secrets. Now, many years later, Claire's peaceful life is about to get more crowded as Sydney returns with her daughter and a new neighbour moves in next door! *trigger warning: domestic violence (Submitted by Arleigh) Show less

A light, feel-good read in the magical realism genre. I read this book on the Libby app on my phone while I was traveling in Georgia and South Carolina w...Show more A light, feel-good read in the magical realism genre. I read this book on the Libby app on my phone while I was traveling in Georgia and South Carolina with my family. This is a story about magic and family and acceptance. Claire and Sydney Waverley are sisters who had very different reactions to being raised by their reclusive grandmother in a small North Carolina town. Sydney left as soon as she could, and Claire stayed to learn all about her grandmother's magical cooking secrets. Now, many years later, Claire's peaceful life is about to get more crowded as Sydney returns with her daughter and a new neighbour moves in next door! *trigger warning: domestic violence (Submitted by Arleigh) Show less

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Piranesi

Piranesi

by Clarke, Susanna

Book - 2020

Piranesi is a wonderful read. It takes place in a mystical and cryptic world that continuously unravels its mystery. This beautiful and thoughtful story kept me up all night turning the pages! (Submitted by Meaghan) Piranesi is a wonderful read. It takes place in a mystical and cryptic world that continuously unravels its mystery. This beautiful and thoughtful story kept me up all night turning the pages! (Submitted by Meaghan) Show less

Piranesi is a wonderful read. It takes place in a mystical and cryptic world that continuously unravels its mystery. This beautiful and thoughtful story kept me up all night turning the pages! (Submitted by Meaghan) Piranesi is a wonderful read. It takes place in a mystical and cryptic world that continuously unravels its mystery. This beautiful and thoughtful story kept me up all night turning the pages! (Submitted by Meaghan) Show less

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Nowhere Girl

Nowhere Girl

A Memoir of A Fugitive Childhood

by Diamond, Cheryl

Book - 2021

Bhajan had lived in more than a dozen countries by the time she was 9. She understood at a very young age how to live by the rules her family followed: us...Show more Bhajan had lived in more than a dozen countries by the time she was 9. She understood at a very young age how to live by the rules her family followed: use a new name every time you move, don’t trust anyone but your family, and make sure no one is following you. As she gets older, with tension, violence and abuse occurring between her older brother, sister, mother and father, she has to figure out who she is and how she wants to live. To do this, she has to start to understand her upbringing and how it shaped and scarred her. This true story is utterly absorbing and fascinating as you watch Bhajan struggle to interpret her family’s rules, her father’s violence and love, her mother’s complicity, and Bhajan’s battle to find freedom. I devoured this book (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

Bhajan had lived in more than a dozen countries by the time she was 9. She understood at a very young age how to live by the rules her family followed: us...Show more Bhajan had lived in more than a dozen countries by the time she was 9. She understood at a very young age how to live by the rules her family followed: use a new name every time you move, don’t trust anyone but your family, and make sure no one is following you. As she gets older, with tension, violence and abuse occurring between her older brother, sister, mother and father, she has to figure out who she is and how she wants to live. To do this, she has to start to understand her upbringing and how it shaped and scarred her. This true story is utterly absorbing and fascinating as you watch Bhajan struggle to interpret her family’s rules, her father’s violence and love, her mother’s complicity, and Bhajan’s battle to find freedom. I devoured this book (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

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Catside Up, Catside Down

Catside Up, Catside Down

A Book of Prepositions

by Hrachovec, Anna

Book - 2023

It's both cute and inspirational. Cat lovers and crocheters will rejoice! (Submitted by Cristina) It's both cute and inspirational. Cat lovers and crocheters will rejoice! (Submitted by Cristina) Show less

It's both cute and inspirational. Cat lovers and crocheters will rejoice! (Submitted by Cristina) It's both cute and inspirational. Cat lovers and crocheters will rejoice! (Submitted by Cristina) Show less

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Darling Girls

Darling Girls

by Hepworth, Sally

Book - 2024

This story was unlike any I've ever read before. The plot was unique following three sisters in a dual timeline. You'll read each of their point of views ...Show more This story was unlike any I've ever read before. The plot was unique following three sisters in a dual timeline. You'll read each of their point of views from living in a foster home when they were young children to afterwards as adults. The plot kept me on the edge of my seat and I never saw any of the twists coming. The author's way of writing is easy to get through making for a great read (Submitted by Hayley) Show less

This story was unlike any I've ever read before. The plot was unique following three sisters in a dual timeline. You'll read each of their point of views ...Show more This story was unlike any I've ever read before. The plot was unique following three sisters in a dual timeline. You'll read each of their point of views from living in a foster home when they were young children to afterwards as adults. The plot kept me on the edge of my seat and I never saw any of the twists coming. The author's way of writing is easy to get through making for a great read (Submitted by Hayley) Show less

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The Life-changing Magic of Tidying up

The Life-changing Magic of Tidying up

The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing

by Kondō, Marie

Book - 2014

I thought of myself as of a well-organized individual and great at keeping things tidy, but after reading this book I've realized that I have lots of roo...Show more I thought of myself as of a well-organized individual and great at keeping things tidy, but after reading this book I've realized that I have lots of room to improve on. The book had a lasting and positive effect on me and the physical space around me. I am still in the process of changing the layout of things at home, giving away items I rarely use, and only keeping those items that are truly needed and bring joy. I've been mentioning this book a lot lately, so decided to share it with even a greater number of people (Submitted by Mariya) Show less

I thought of myself as of a well-organized individual and great at keeping things tidy, but after reading this book I've realized that I have lots of roo...Show more I thought of myself as of a well-organized individual and great at keeping things tidy, but after reading this book I've realized that I have lots of room to improve on. The book had a lasting and positive effect on me and the physical space around me. I am still in the process of changing the layout of things at home, giving away items I rarely use, and only keeping those items that are truly needed and bring joy. I've been mentioning this book a lot lately, so decided to share it with even a greater number of people (Submitted by Mariya) Show less

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Gods, Monsters, and the Lucky Peach

Gods, Monsters, and the Lucky Peach

by Robson, Kelly

Book - 2018

Minh is a plague baby, who grew up on planet Earth as the civilization was itching to leave the underground cities called Hell’s they’d fled to as the sur...Show more Minh is a plague baby, who grew up on planet Earth as the civilization was itching to leave the underground cities called Hell’s they’d fled to as the surface of the Earth became unlivable. Minh lives in the hab of Calgary and works tirelessly to restore the ecological balance and restore nature. But the Banks hold not only money but the power to dispense it, and when Time Travel is discovered, restoring the surface of Earth stalls and falters. Minch and her small company are intrigued by a proposal to travel back in time to Mesopotamia to gather ecological data so the current Mesopotamian Trench including the Euphrates and Tigris rivers can be remediated. Minh and her team are successful and travel back to the past, but then things get very very complicated. This book seems so believable especially with the current weather trends and horrible things happening on our planet (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

Minh is a plague baby, who grew up on planet Earth as the civilization was itching to leave the underground cities called Hell’s they’d fled to as the sur...Show more Minh is a plague baby, who grew up on planet Earth as the civilization was itching to leave the underground cities called Hell’s they’d fled to as the surface of the Earth became unlivable. Minh lives in the hab of Calgary and works tirelessly to restore the ecological balance and restore nature. But the Banks hold not only money but the power to dispense it, and when Time Travel is discovered, restoring the surface of Earth stalls and falters. Minch and her small company are intrigued by a proposal to travel back in time to Mesopotamia to gather ecological data so the current Mesopotamian Trench including the Euphrates and Tigris rivers can be remediated. Minh and her team are successful and travel back to the past, but then things get very very complicated. This book seems so believable especially with the current weather trends and horrible things happening on our planet (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

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The Collapsing Empire

The Collapsing Empire

by Scalzi, John

Book - 2017

In a world where all planets have to rely on each other for the resources they need to survive, what will happen when the routes connecting them start to ...Show more In a world where all planets have to rely on each other for the resources they need to survive, what will happen when the routes connecting them start to close? This is hilarious novel takes on the political scheming by the ruling houses of the planets as they attempt to take control of the empire. John Scalzi is known for his witty dialogue and humourous characters and this book doesn't disappoint. The whole series is a fast-paced, fun read that is great for anyone looking for something funny and easy to read (Submitted by Maggie) Show less

In a world where all planets have to rely on each other for the resources they need to survive, what will happen when the routes connecting them start to ...Show more In a world where all planets have to rely on each other for the resources they need to survive, what will happen when the routes connecting them start to close? This is hilarious novel takes on the political scheming by the ruling houses of the planets as they attempt to take control of the empire. John Scalzi is known for his witty dialogue and humourous characters and this book doesn't disappoint. The whole series is a fast-paced, fun read that is great for anyone looking for something funny and easy to read (Submitted by Maggie) Show less

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Degrees of Separation

Degrees of Separation

A Decade North of 60

by McCreesh, Alison

Graphic Novel - 2024

A graphic novel memoir that chronicles a young woman’s trip to the Yukon “for the summer” and the subsequent decade of her life spent living in various no...Show more A graphic novel memoir that chronicles a young woman’s trip to the Yukon “for the summer” and the subsequent decade of her life spent living in various northern communities. Interspersed between episodes from the author’s life are brief historical crash-courses which provide useful context as well as gorgeous sketches depicting the unique landscapes of the arctic. If you’ve ever daydreamed about dropping everything in pursuit of an unconventional life, you’ll probably enjoy this one a lot! (Submitted by Mitchel) Show less

A graphic novel memoir that chronicles a young woman’s trip to the Yukon “for the summer” and the subsequent decade of her life spent living in various no...Show more A graphic novel memoir that chronicles a young woman’s trip to the Yukon “for the summer” and the subsequent decade of her life spent living in various northern communities. Interspersed between episodes from the author’s life are brief historical crash-courses which provide useful context as well as gorgeous sketches depicting the unique landscapes of the arctic. If you’ve ever daydreamed about dropping everything in pursuit of an unconventional life, you’ll probably enjoy this one a lot! (Submitted by Mitchel) Show less

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Strike the Zither

Strike the Zither

by He, Joan

Book - 2022

Strike the Zither is a fantasy war novel, one of many works inspired by the Classical Chinese novel the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.  It distinguishes i...Show more Strike the Zither is a fantasy war novel, one of many works inspired by the Classical Chinese novel the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.  It distinguishes itself from the other adaptations by utilizing the fantasy setting to adapt its inspiration in a very unique way.  The story centres around Zephyr, the young strategist who devises near-impossible schemes to save her lordess and bring victory.  However, many forces are conspiring against her and she will need to utilize every resource to save herself and  everyone around her.  The readers who are familiar with the Romance of the Three Kingdoms would be surprised to see what changes were implemented to create very unpredictable plot.  Some of the situations presented in this novel are even more overwhelming and hopeless than its inspiration, so it makes the reader keep wondering how Zephyr will survive the challenges. The narrative contains values familiar to East Asian readers, but several aspects of the story are tweaked to appeal to the non-East Asian readers as well.  The cliffhanger ending with a twist will make the readers eager to read the sequel immediately.  Highly recommended for the readers who love to see the battle of wits, but be careful if you do not enjoy depictions of graphic violence (Submitted by Eric) Show less

Strike the Zither is a fantasy war novel, one of many works inspired by the Classical Chinese novel the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.  It distinguishes i...Show more Strike the Zither is a fantasy war novel, one of many works inspired by the Classical Chinese novel the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.  It distinguishes itself from the other adaptations by utilizing the fantasy setting to adapt its inspiration in a very unique way.  The story centres around Zephyr, the young strategist who devises near-impossible schemes to save her lordess and bring victory.  However, many forces are conspiring against her and she will need to utilize every resource to save herself and  everyone around her.  The readers who are familiar with the Romance of the Three Kingdoms would be surprised to see what changes were implemented to create very unpredictable plot.  Some of the situations presented in this novel are even more overwhelming and hopeless than its inspiration, so it makes the reader keep wondering how Zephyr will survive the challenges. The narrative contains values familiar to East Asian readers, but several aspects of the story are tweaked to appeal to the non-East Asian readers as well.  The cliffhanger ending with a twist will make the readers eager to read the sequel immediately.  Highly recommended for the readers who love to see the battle of wits, but be careful if you do not enjoy depictions of graphic violence (Submitted by Eric) Show less

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Dysphoria

Dysphoria

Poems

by Neilson, Shane

Book - 2017

Dysphoria is a 2017 collection by New Brunswick born, Ontario based poet, memoirist, critic and physician Shane Neilson. Neilson’s work often explores me...Show more Dysphoria is a 2017 collection by New Brunswick born, Ontario based poet, memoirist, critic and physician Shane Neilson. Neilson’s work often explores mental illness, both from an emic and etic perspective. This, along with Neilson’s Lucious, musical use of language and his wide historical knowledge of how “madness” has been framed throughout history makes his work stand-out from other Canadian poetry about mental health, which is often hopelessly pedestrian. Neilson is a master of enjambment—his lines run into each other in an ecstatic way that embodies the mania he is describing: “I, Cowper, slake thirst with body/of the lake of fire/to fear one iamb/ that becomes a hum and makes/ mystery out of the feeling that washes/my brain, oh rant and register/of the grave/ stone and blessed storm/with foot planted in the norm of brimstone…” Particularly interesting is the second section of the book which reimagines a 19th century medical textbook, which troubles the limits of the labels and language we use when discussing mental illness (Submitted by Jennifer) Show less

Dysphoria is a 2017 collection by New Brunswick born, Ontario based poet, memoirist, critic and physician Shane Neilson. Neilson’s work often explores me...Show more Dysphoria is a 2017 collection by New Brunswick born, Ontario based poet, memoirist, critic and physician Shane Neilson. Neilson’s work often explores mental illness, both from an emic and etic perspective. This, along with Neilson’s Lucious, musical use of language and his wide historical knowledge of how “madness” has been framed throughout history makes his work stand-out from other Canadian poetry about mental health, which is often hopelessly pedestrian. Neilson is a master of enjambment—his lines run into each other in an ecstatic way that embodies the mania he is describing: “I, Cowper, slake thirst with body/of the lake of fire/to fear one iamb/ that becomes a hum and makes/ mystery out of the feeling that washes/my brain, oh rant and register/of the grave/ stone and blessed storm/with foot planted in the norm of brimstone…” Particularly interesting is the second section of the book which reimagines a 19th century medical textbook, which troubles the limits of the labels and language we use when discussing mental illness (Submitted by Jennifer) Show less

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The Spy Coast

The Spy Coast

A Thriller

by Gerritsen, Tess

Book - 2023

Riveting read, you won’t guess who the bad guy is, and even if you do, are they really bad? This story delves into the “retired” lives of several ex-CIA ...Show more Riveting read, you won’t guess who the bad guy is, and even if you do, are they really bad? This story delves into the “retired” lives of several ex-CIA employees who just can’t stop looking over their shoulders and trouble finds them in a big, big way. Several looking back snippets of world travels that are wonderfully described as well as intriguing at the same time. The storyline keeps moving right along at breakneck speed and you won’t be able to put this down. Even better the basis of this story is from the author’s own personal experience of learning that ex-CIA employees are her real-life neighbours in the small town she lives in (Submitted by Jamie) Show less

Riveting read, you won’t guess who the bad guy is, and even if you do, are they really bad? This story delves into the “retired” lives of several ex-CIA ...Show more Riveting read, you won’t guess who the bad guy is, and even if you do, are they really bad? This story delves into the “retired” lives of several ex-CIA employees who just can’t stop looking over their shoulders and trouble finds them in a big, big way. Several looking back snippets of world travels that are wonderfully described as well as intriguing at the same time. The storyline keeps moving right along at breakneck speed and you won’t be able to put this down. Even better the basis of this story is from the author’s own personal experience of learning that ex-CIA employees are her real-life neighbours in the small town she lives in (Submitted by Jamie) Show less

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The Inheritance Games

The Inheritance Games

by Barnes, Jennifer Lynn

Book - 2020

This book was SO good! Like a mixed up Hunger Games that mated with the movie “Knives Out”, this story tells of what happens when a billionaire dies and l...Show more This book was SO good! Like a mixed up Hunger Games that mated with the movie “Knives Out”, this story tells of what happens when a billionaire dies and leaves his estate to a virtual stranger. Avery Grambs is just trying to get through grade 11 and 12 so she can score a scholarship to an Acturial Science Program in University. She is very smart, but her Dad is out of the picture, her Mom died when Avery was 15, and her sister’s old boyfriend has moved back in (he punches walls) so Avery is currently living in her car. She is called into the Principal’s office where she is informed that she is to be present at the will reading of Tobias Hawthorne, whom she has never heard of. Whisked off to the mammoth estate, Avery and her sister Libby are stunned to hear that almost everything has been left to Avery, if she lives in the mansion for a year. His 2 daughters and 4 grandsons receive pittances compared with what Avery gets. The mansion is full of secrets and puzzles, challenges and obstacles, and Avery doesn’t know if she’ll survive. The story feels plausible (haven’t we all wished that we would be the beneficiary of a secret billionaire?) and the people are wonderfully fleshed out. I gulped it down in one day (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

This book was SO good! Like a mixed up Hunger Games that mated with the movie “Knives Out”, this story tells of what happens when a billionaire dies and l...Show more This book was SO good! Like a mixed up Hunger Games that mated with the movie “Knives Out”, this story tells of what happens when a billionaire dies and leaves his estate to a virtual stranger. Avery Grambs is just trying to get through grade 11 and 12 so she can score a scholarship to an Acturial Science Program in University. She is very smart, but her Dad is out of the picture, her Mom died when Avery was 15, and her sister’s old boyfriend has moved back in (he punches walls) so Avery is currently living in her car. She is called into the Principal’s office where she is informed that she is to be present at the will reading of Tobias Hawthorne, whom she has never heard of. Whisked off to the mammoth estate, Avery and her sister Libby are stunned to hear that almost everything has been left to Avery, if she lives in the mansion for a year. His 2 daughters and 4 grandsons receive pittances compared with what Avery gets. The mansion is full of secrets and puzzles, challenges and obstacles, and Avery doesn’t know if she’ll survive. The story feels plausible (haven’t we all wished that we would be the beneficiary of a secret billionaire?) and the people are wonderfully fleshed out. I gulped it down in one day (Submitted by Sharleen) Show less

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The Bodyguard

The Bodyguard

A Novel

by Center, Katherine

Book - 2022

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center is a surprisingly lighthearted read, despite its inciting incident. Dumped by her boyfriend the day of her mother's fune...Show more The Bodyguard by Katherine Center is a surprisingly lighthearted read, despite its inciting incident. Dumped by her boyfriend the day of her mother's funeral, Hannah Brooks wants nothing more than to return to her job as an Executive Protection Agent—aka, a bodyguard—(though preferably with an international assignment, as her ex is also her coworker and anything else would defeat the idea of "distraction from grief"). But when her boss starts a race between the ex-couple to decide which of them will get to oversee a new office, Hannah is forced to accept a local assignment or forfeit her chance. But what an assignment. Much to her chagrin, Hannah is forced to protect movie star Jack Stapleton, who is returning to his local hometown due to a family emergency. And due to a work emergency, Hannah is suddenly forced to pretend to be his girlfriend to avoid worrying Jack's family about the need for a bodyguard. *cue all of your fake-dating, forced-proximity, bodyguard/guarded fantasies* And it doesn't help that Jack is gorgeous, funny, and sweet to boot. How could a girl resist? (Submitted by Anya) Show less

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center is a surprisingly lighthearted read, despite its inciting incident. Dumped by her boyfriend the day of her mother's fune...Show more The Bodyguard by Katherine Center is a surprisingly lighthearted read, despite its inciting incident. Dumped by her boyfriend the day of her mother's funeral, Hannah Brooks wants nothing more than to return to her job as an Executive Protection Agent—aka, a bodyguard—(though preferably with an international assignment, as her ex is also her coworker and anything else would defeat the idea of "distraction from grief"). But when her boss starts a race between the ex-couple to decide which of them will get to oversee a new office, Hannah is forced to accept a local assignment or forfeit her chance. But what an assignment. Much to her chagrin, Hannah is forced to protect movie star Jack Stapleton, who is returning to his local hometown due to a family emergency. And due to a work emergency, Hannah is suddenly forced to pretend to be his girlfriend to avoid worrying Jack's family about the need for a bodyguard. *cue all of your fake-dating, forced-proximity, bodyguard/guarded fantasies* And it doesn't help that Jack is gorgeous, funny, and sweet to boot. How could a girl resist? (Submitted by Anya) Show less

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The Problem of the Wire Cage

The Problem of the Wire Cage

by Carr, John Dickson

Book - 2024

The Problem of the Wire Cage is written by John Dickson Carr, who was famous for many "impossible murder" mysteries. This book presents the cur...Show more The Problem of the Wire Cage is written by John Dickson Carr, who was famous for many "impossible murder" mysteries. This book presents the curious murder - a man is found strangled to death in the middle of the tennis court, but there is no footprints or trace of a murderer. So who killed the victim, and how was it done? As with other Golden Age Detective novels, the most of Carr's novels are told from the detective's point of view, but this one deviates from his own formula. The narrative centres around the two individuals caught in the middle of the investigation, and their first concern is to clear any suspicion on them which leads them to challenge other characters in mental warfare. This shift of focus turns the book into a Hitchcock-like suspense. Carr's writing is almost cinematic in some scenes, which makes it fun to imagine the whole book as a classical black and white thriller film. As a result, the Police is depicted as adversaries and the detective is portrayed as more of omniscient teacher waiting to reveal the answer to his students. This could be a negative factor for some readers, but those who want to see a twist in a familiar trope might find it interesting. Some readers may find the conclusion a little over-the-top, but the drama and suspense carry the reader's interest till the end. This is a good story for the readers looking for the unusual in the classical genre (Submitted by Eric) Show less

The Problem of the Wire Cage is written by John Dickson Carr, who was famous for many "impossible murder" mysteries. This book presents the cur...Show more The Problem of the Wire Cage is written by John Dickson Carr, who was famous for many "impossible murder" mysteries. This book presents the curious murder - a man is found strangled to death in the middle of the tennis court, but there is no footprints or trace of a murderer. So who killed the victim, and how was it done? As with other Golden Age Detective novels, the most of Carr's novels are told from the detective's point of view, but this one deviates from his own formula. The narrative centres around the two individuals caught in the middle of the investigation, and their first concern is to clear any suspicion on them which leads them to challenge other characters in mental warfare. This shift of focus turns the book into a Hitchcock-like suspense. Carr's writing is almost cinematic in some scenes, which makes it fun to imagine the whole book as a classical black and white thriller film. As a result, the Police is depicted as adversaries and the detective is portrayed as more of omniscient teacher waiting to reveal the answer to his students. This could be a negative factor for some readers, but those who want to see a twist in a familiar trope might find it interesting. Some readers may find the conclusion a little over-the-top, but the drama and suspense carry the reader's interest till the end. This is a good story for the readers looking for the unusual in the classical genre (Submitted by Eric) Show less

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This Is A Ball

This Is A Ball

by Stanton, Beck

Book - 2017

This is a Ball presents in premise with succinct articulate cover- a picture of a cube. From there the book continues to escalate in its gaslighting to in...Show more This is a Ball presents in premise with succinct articulate cover- a picture of a cube. From there the book continues to escalate in its gaslighting to increasingly hilarious proportions. The book walks the reader through a series lies- calling a car a bike, monstrous blob a princess, and a dingy factory a beach. Gaslighting so obvious that even a toddler is sure to react with fiery protest. In short it’s a great book to introduce young kids to reading critically- weighing when to trust and dispute words on the written page. Either for a one-on-one bedtime story, or for either kindergarten teachers wanting to whip an audience into laughter-filled opprobrium, it’s a superb book for animated engagement (Submitted by Adam) Show less

This is a Ball presents in premise with succinct articulate cover- a picture of a cube. From there the book continues to escalate in its gaslighting to in...Show more This is a Ball presents in premise with succinct articulate cover- a picture of a cube. From there the book continues to escalate in its gaslighting to increasingly hilarious proportions. The book walks the reader through a series lies- calling a car a bike, monstrous blob a princess, and a dingy factory a beach. Gaslighting so obvious that even a toddler is sure to react with fiery protest. In short it’s a great book to introduce young kids to reading critically- weighing when to trust and dispute words on the written page. Either for a one-on-one bedtime story, or for either kindergarten teachers wanting to whip an audience into laughter-filled opprobrium, it’s a superb book for animated engagement (Submitted by Adam) Show less

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