The newest books releasing next month include a debut, some time travel, a little historical fiction, a local author (Alex George) and more. February’s Library Reads list is sure to have something for everyone. Take a look at some of the recommendations from librarians across the country.
“Norse Mythology” by Neil Gaiman
“After reading Gaiman’s account of Norse mythology, I doubt that I will ever forget how the gods of Asgard acquired their treasures. Thor’s hammer that never misses its mark, Frey’s incredible ship that shrinks to the size of a pocketable silk scarf, Odin’s powerful spear, all came to be because of Loki’s mischief. Above all, I will not forget the ill-gotten and ill-treated children of Loki who bring about Ragnarok, the end of earth and heaven and the death of the gods. Everything feels very real and very now when told by someone who has obviously drunk of the ‘mead of the poets.’”
-Catherine Stanton, Madison Library District, Rexburg, IL
“Setting Free the Kites” by Alex George
“Robert stands watching the demolition of the old paper mill that stood in the center of town and served as a constant reminder of his friend, Nathan. The reader is transported from present day to 1970s Maine, where Robbie finds his friendship with Nathan a literal escape from the bullying at school, and a figurative way of coping with his brother’s struggle with muscular dystrophy. The portrayal of family dynamics in the wake of tragedy is reminiscent of “Everything I Never Told You” by Celeste Ng but with an anchoring of boyhood friendship in this coming of age tale.”
-Emma DeLooze-Klein, Kirkwood Public Library, Kirkwood, MO
“All Our Wrong Todays” by Elan Mastai
“Mastai’s debut is a clever and funny time travel romp which turns into an action-packed science fiction thriller. Tom Barren stumbles through life and accidentally ruins the glittering jetpack and flying car future of 2016, replacing it with the one you and I know. The world may be worse off, but Tom’s life is better than ever. That is until his mind starts splitting between the two realities and he must track down the genius who invented the other future. Tom’s journey through the past, across realities, and inside his mind make for a thrilling conclusion.”
-Dan Brooks, Wake County Public Libraries, Cary, NC
Here are the rest of the Top 10 for February:
- “I See You” by Clare Mackintosh
- “My Not So Perfect Life” by Sophie Kinsella
- “A Piece of the World” by Christina Baker Kline
- “Gilded Cage” by Vic James
- “The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir” by Jennifer Ryan
- “We Were the Lucky Ones” by Georgia Hunter
- “Garden of Lamentations” by Deborah Crombie
