Reading Recs

In a time when society is struggling to stay connected while remaining safely apart, this book explored the bond between two sisters and the lengths at which a devoted older sibling will go to stay connected with her sister through mental health crises and all the chaos that comes with them. This has been one of my favorite books in a long time because it is such a raw telling of mental illness, family bonds and the way society treats those deemed unfit for society. ~ Rachael Long, Class of '22

This Newbery Medal winning book is the story of a village as it emerges from evil leadership that requires an annual human infant sacrifice which is annually thwarted by a beneficent witch. One of these babies gets adopted by this witch who feeds her the moon which makes her magic. This girl grows and through her the town is freed from an evil that thrives on bringing sadness. A wonderful escape into a fun world of mystery, magic, and whimsy that will take you back to the joy of a children's fantasy story. ~ Stephanie Hallam, Kent Library

A great thriller about a young girl determined to make it on her own. ~Kala Childress, Class of '22

After reading "White Fragility," I was forced to confront my own complicit racism and white privilege. That book deeply moved me and caused me to think differently about my place in the world. I wanted to unlearn the systemic racist behavior that I had been brought up with and while I'm still reading it, Kendi's "How to be an Antiracist" is an excellent book to help me become an advocate and ally to persons of color in my community and in my country. ~Roxanne Dunn, Kent Library

A classic! A saga based in the rugged and unforgiving Australian outback where the main character struggles through life trying to move on from a forbidden love. ~ Karie Stroder, Academic Advising

I have a bunch of potted cacti and after they spent the long winter inside, I decided I wanted to hang some of them up on my porch. Instead of buying hanging baskets and having to repot I resolved to get crafty and try making macramé plant hangers. This book was really helpful showing various knotting techniques that could be easily combined into one cohesive project. I saved money since I could make the macramé hangers custom sizes for the pots I already had, and my porch looks boho chic. Overall, a fun summer project and a useful book. ~Liz Rudloff, Kent Library

My favorite author’s latest - released this month. Dave Robicheaux is a former NOLA cop living and working now in New Iberia, LA. Murder, mysteries, lyrical prose, evocative atmosphere - this book has it all! James Lee Burke never disappoints! ~Trish Farrish, Child & Family Studies

The Alchemist tells a story of determination and perseverance. It contains several memorable quotes that offer valuable pearls of life wisdom. ~Nick Raines, Kent Library

Action, magic, romance, evil empires, long lost queens and more! You ask for it, this series has it. A thrilling YA fantasy story that can definitely appeal to all ages. Featuring strong female characters and enough magical creatures to have your head spinning and will make you want to sit for hours reading. The magical world of Erilea is captivating and holds endless possibilities for adventure. Hands down the best book I read this summer and I have plans to read it many times again. Give the first book a try and I promise that you will find yourself already reaching for the rest! ~Gabby Diebold, Class of '24

This book is a must read for anyone. DiAngelo speaks to the heart of why white people have difficulty recognizing, speaking about, and move through racism - particularly the defensive moves white people make when challenged about their own racism. A really important book, particularly for this time! ~Randyn Heisserer-Miller, Kent Library