Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

In Iceland it’s traditional to celebrate Christmas Eve with an exchange of books and then spend the evening reading them. The custom is so popular that book catalogs are distributed at the start of the season. I love the idea of giving books as gifts but it can be a bit challenging to find just the right one when you're buying for someone else. Here are some adult books recommendations that are suitable for gift-giving or for your own enjoyment this season.

The Blinds by Adam Sternbergh

The Blinds is a modern western with a unique premise. The forty-eight citizens of Caersura, Texas are all either convicted killers or in witness protection. They've agreed to have their memories erased so no one knows if they are one of the guilty or innocent.  A fast and engaging read!

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

An eye-opening autobiography from the host of Comedy Central's The Daily Show about growing up as a biracial child in post-apartheid South Africa.

The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip by George Saunders

This modern parable by Booker Prize winner George Saunders is full of compassion and karmic justice with beautiful illustrations by Lane Smith.  A great gift for anyone young at heart!

The Witchfinder's Sister by Beth Underdown

A novel based on the reign of terror of Matthew Hopkins, England's self-appointed Witchfinder General in the 1640s. Fans of historical fiction or suspense will enjoy this mesmerizing story.    

Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer

Science fiction fans and conspiracy theorists on your list will enjoy learning all the intricacies of Annihilation's mysterious Area X before the film hits theaters in early 2018.

Since We Fell by Dennis Lehane

Dennis Lehane's latest novel offers fascinating characters and heart-pounding suspense.  It's a must read for fans of literary thrillers!

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist