Staff Picks: Slow Horses by Mick Heron

 

Slow Horses by Mick Herron

If you love quirky spy novels and British humor, check out Mick Herron's Slow Horses. His Slough House series is what Apple TV's runaway hit show Slow Horses is based upon (The series was just approved for Season Six). 

Slough House is where MI5 agents go when they turn out to be less than spectacular in their roles or make disastrous mistakes. The characters find themselves involved in a myriad of intrigue with very mixed results and often a good bit of mayhem.

Joan Dudzinski, MLIS
Branch Manager

Jewish Book Month November 24 - December 24

Jewish Book Month is November 24 thru December 24. Here are a few of my favorite literary fiction books by Jewish authors. 

Naamah by Sarah Blake

In this imaginative retelling, Noah's wife Naamah swims in the ocean while mourning the victims of the Great Flood, cares for the people and creatures on the ark, talks with angels, questions her own choices and God's, and even has visions of the distant future 

Our Favorite Seasonal Children's Books

Thrilled to be a first-time aunt, my sister gifted us a unique picture book when my son was young. 

Auntie Claus and the Key to Christmas by Elise Primavera

When things seem dark and dreary – if times turn sour and bitter – think like a Kringle! You’ll soon find your way to all that sparkles and glitters!

Glamorous Auntie Claus spills some intriguing Kringle family secrets to a skeptical nephew who tests his theory Santa’s BB and G (Bad-Boys-and-Girls) list and ignores warnings about the society of PRUNES (Parade Rainers United National Elite Society). 

Elise Primavera's Auntie Claus books are filled with humor and fun illustrations. 

National Stress-Free Holidays Month

Financial concerns, gifting expectations, special meal planning, and travel can contribute to significant stress during the holiday season. If anxiety is impacting your holiday enjoyment, these nonfiction books may help lighten your load and make the holidays a bit brighter.   

10%  Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-help that Actually Works - a True Story by Dan Harris

Emmy-Award winning anchor and correspondent for ABC News and host of the 10% Happier Podcast, Dan Harris describes his own experiences living with anxiety and shares guided meditations that help him manage the condition. 

Jewish Book Month November 24 - December 24

In honor of Jewish Book Month here are a few more of my favorite books by Jewish authors. 

The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo’s The Familiar is an immersive historical fantasy novel about a sassy scullion who hides her Jewish ancestory as well as her magical abilities during the Spanish Inquisition. I loved this mesmerizing and thought-provoking story. 

Our Favorite Seasonal Reads

While not exclusively seasonal reads, two of my favorite classic stories feature Christmas-themed elements and are particularly meaningful to read during the holidays.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Technically the second book in the popular Chronicles of Narnia series, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is the story that introduced many young readers to the magic of Narnia.

Clive Staples Lewis’ mesmerizing tale includes obvious symbols of the holidays with Father Christmas, special gifts, and sleigh rides through the snow. While many readers consider the novel to be an Christian allegory and C.S. Lewis wrote about his religious views in some of his other works, Lewis explicitly resisted categorizing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe as an allegory.

A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving

John Irving’s classic novel about a young man with a damaged voice who views himself as God’s instrument on earth isn’t exactly a Christmas story either and at 640 pages may require a hefty time commitment to read during the busy holiday season. But conveniently, the story about transformative friendship between Johnny Wheelwright and Owen Meany can be read in sections. In the first third, John Irving describes a riotous Christmas pageant directed by and starring Owen Meany himself as well as a somber performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol that offers readers a seasonal emotional roller coaster ride. 

Pick up the story as time allows or even after the holidays to read about Owen’s college days and early adulthood in the second and third sections of the book. It's one of my favorite stories! 

Happy holidays and happy reading!   

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist

Season's Greetings from Sharon Forks Library

Celebrate Jewish Book Month November 24 to December 24

Jewish Book Month was started in 1925 by Fanny Goldstein at the Boston Public Library to celebrate Jewish books and promote Jewish authors.  

Here are a few of my favorite books by Jewish authors. 

People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks

This eye-opening and intricately plotted historical fiction novel chronicles the journey of an illuminated manuscript through seven centuries of Jewish persecutions. It's one of my favorite historical fiction novels. 

Jewish Book Month November 24 - December 24

Jewish Book Month was started in 1925 by Fanny Goldstein at the Boston Public Library to celebrate Jewish books and promote Jewish authors.  

Here are a few of my favorite books by Jewish authors that are great reads for young patrons as well as adults. 

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

I keep my ideals, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. 

Anne Frank

The Diary of a Young Girl

Anne Frank's incomparable diary may be the first book that comes to mind during Jewish Book month.  It's been translated from the original Dutch into over 70 languages and has sold over 30 million copies. The diary reveals the best and worst of humanity. It's the one book I recommend for all readers.

National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month

While the December holidays are typically viewed as a festive time, not everyone experiences the season in the same way. Gray skies, busy schedules, idealized expectations, and missing loved ones can increase stress, anxiety, and depression. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 40% of adults suffer from social anxiety around the holidays. Many people experience some form of holiday blues, including dissatisfaction and loneliness. Unhealthy eating or drinking can also exacerbate mental health struggles in the winter months.  

If you're feeling stressed, here are a few quick reads from our collection that may help you manage the challenges of the season.  

Be a Triangle: How I Went From Being Lost to Getting My Life Into Shape by Lilly Singh

Comedian, actress, and author of How to be a Bawse, Lilly Singh writes about her own quest for inner peace. In this insightful and charming book, Singh encourages readers to acknowledge their unique personal struggles and reject cookie-cutter expectations to create a solid foundation and "be a triangle".

Local Author Spotlight: Dr. Ashley Baker, Author of The Furious Others

 

The Furious Others by Ashley Baker

In her newly released novel The Furious Others, Dr. Ashley Baker describes the final hours in the lives of ten young women who have been the victims of a serial killer.  

Rather than telling the story from the perspective of the killer, The Furious Others flips the traditional horror novel format and begins in Purgatory, where the killer stands condemned for multiple murders. Chapter by chapter, the book reveals the sinister side of Jason LeDown through the eyes of his victims and the few lucky souls who survived their encounters with the brainy, awkward, and angry young man. 

Dino-vember Adult Fiction Book Recommendations

 

The decline of the dinosaurs allowed mammals - including us - to flourish. And that leads us to wonder whether the disappearance of the dinosaurs is going to be repeated, sooner or later, by us as well. Whether at the deepest level the fault lies not in blind fate - in some fiery meteor from the skies - but in our own behavior. At the moment we have no answer.

Michael Crichton

The Lost World

Here are some of the popular fiction titles from our Dino-vember reading list.

Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton 

Velociraptors agree, no dinosaur reading list would be complete without Michael Crichton's 1990 novel that warned about the dangers of genetically modified dinosaurs.  

The Dinosaur Hunter by Homer Hickam

Homer Hickman, author of the New York Times bestseller Rocket Boys, draws on his own experience fossil hunting in this realistic thriller set in Montana. 

Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson

Bestselling author James Patterson adapts an unfinished novel from the late Michael Crichton into a fast-paced thriller about military secrets and an active volcano on Big Island, Hawaii. 

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist

Meet Brianna Schantz—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

You know when you meet someone who loves what they do so much it stands out in everything they do? That was my experience when I met our latest Library Limelight, Brianna Schantz, who fosters creativity in so many ways at Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL).

Brianna currently serves as an Information Specialist at Sharon Forks, and embodies the passion and dedication that make libraries such vibrant community hubs. With four years of experience at FCPL, Brianna began her journey as a Collection Support Aide before advancing to her current role.

Brianna is well prepared for an exciting

backpacking adventure in North Carolina

Dino-vember Adult Nonfiction Book Recommendations

Things are going to get weird. There may be horrific disasters, and many lives will  be lost. But don't worry. As long as we keep exploring, humanity is going to survive.

Annalee Newitz

Scatter, Adapt, and Remember: 

How Humans Will Survive a Mass Extinction

A Spector in the Stacks at Sharon Fork Library Continued

Her name is Alice and she's been browsing the stacks at Sharon Forks Library since 2009, looking for interesting books to read and reread. 

On Earth, Alice’s to-be-read pile always exceeded her time to read. After her peaceful passing, Alice enjoys unlimited time to read by hanging out at the Sharon Forks Library where there's cozy seating and books on every topic imaginable.

A Spector in the Stacks at Sharon Forks Library Continued

Alice was a common fixture, seen in Cumming, GA for most of her life walking around town, at the monthly farmers market, and wandering the country roads. Her life was tragically cut short, a mystery which will never be solved. 

She is seen wandering the stacks at Sharon Forks whenever the moon reaches its closest pass by the Earth, known as the supermoon. Alice has been known to re-sort the non-fiction area on ghosts at random times during the year.

Lola N.

Information Specialist

 

A Spector in the Stacks at Sharon Forks Library Continued

The library was nearly deserted, aside from a few high school students meandering around. It was closing time, and as the lingering patrons made their way to the front doors, a low cry was heard from the nonfiction stacks. 

A librarian cautiously walked back to the shelves, nervous she would find a child missing their parents. When she arrived at the stacks, however, all the rows were empty aside from a book on the floor. She put the book back and walked to the next row, only to hear a dull thud. Retracing her steps, the same book was on the floor, as though she had never picked it up. Curious, she read the front cover and found it was a book about manners and etiquette. 

A Spector in the Stacks at Sharon Forks Library Continued

Before joining FCPL, I worked at the Walton-DeFuniak Library, which is located in a small town in the Florida Panhandle. The library opened its doors December 1887 and is known as the oldest circulating library in the state. 

On one of my first days, the director (who has since retired) shared the story of Alice. Alice Fellows was part of the Ladies Library Association, who held fundraiser events for funds to open a library. She was a member from 1894 and became the first paid librarian and continued to hold the position until 1926 when she died from influenza. She was said to be a strict woman who dedicated herself to the library, never having been married or having children. It is rumored that she is still keeping a stern watch over the library. 

A Spector in the Stacks at Sharon Forks Library Continued

Alice haunts the library, a cold presence in the air. Fifty years ago she vanished between the shelves, her body found days later, clutching a book that no longer exists.

Now, shadows twist in corners and whispers rise from forgotten pages. At night the air turns heavy, and lights flicker as her ghost drifts through the aisles, searching, always searching.

A Spector in the Stacks at Sharon Forks Library Continued

Something has made its presence known at the Sharon Forks Library. While searching for biographies and books on history in the adult nonfiction section, patrons and library staff have heard the echo of a name….Alice. 

What is this apparition, and why is it here? There have been a few theories…..

It used to be so quiet here. Now every day they’re loose, shifting the furniture around just outside my vision. I miss the days when this was all mine, every shelf and chair. Now, every night, I have to put all the furniture back where it belongs, knowing they’ll be back next morning. Whispering and snickering behind the doors. Leaving their crumbs behind. 

I wonder if they ever think about who keeps this place running. Maybe they can’t think at all. Just shifting patches of sound and light, stepping through, briefly, before they go back to that other place.

Dr. Ian Afflerbach

University of North Georgia

Forsyth County Public Libraray Series Host: Race and American Culture 

A Specter in the Stacks at Sharon Forks Library

Something has made its presence known at the Sharon Forks Library. While searching for biographies and books on history in the adult nonfiction section, patrons and library staff have heard the echo of a name….Alice. 

What is this apparition, and why is it here? 

Alice in Libraryland

Alice got old. And as elderly people often do, she reminisced about the wondrous adventures of her youth. No one believes her tales, but she knows they’re true…that she’s more than a character in a children’s novel. 

Library Celebrates National Friends of the Library Week 2024

The staff of Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) would like to recognize and thank the FCPL Friends and Advocates as part of the 19th annual National Friends of Libraries Week, October 20-26, 2024.

Since the FCPL Friends and Advocates were established in 1995, they have raised nearly $750,000 through used book sales, membership fees, and other donations to fund special programs, materials, and resources beyond the library's budget. 

The Friends are an all-volunteer organization with over 100 volunteers and they provide an important service to the Forsyth County Community by accepting and selling gently used books and media at all four of our locations, seven days a week. In addition to providing one of the lowest cost options for used books in our area, the Friends’ work diverts over 50,000 books from entering Forsyth County’s waste stream each year through their partnership with Better World Books. 

Library Announces Sole Finalist for Director Position

CUMMING, Georgia (October 16, 2024) – The Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) Board of Trustees has selected Adrianne Junius as the sole finalist for the Library Director position. 

The Board will vote to make an official appointment of the new Director at a called Library Board meeting on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the Cumming Library located at 585 Dahlonega Street in Cumming. 

Staff Picks: The Reformatory by Tananarive Due

 

The Reformatory by Tananarive Due

Racial injustice undermines every aspect of life for African Americans living in Gracetown, Florida in 1950 and spirits, visible only to children often linger long after passings in the form of “haints”.  

When his mother passes away from cancer and his civil right activist father flees the state amid accusations and threats, twelve-year-old Robbie Stevens is left in the care of his older sister, Gloria. Defending his sister from the son of a powerful landowner earns Robbie a six-month sentence at the Gracetown School for Boys where his ability to see haints reveals a disturbing history. 

The Reformatoy is a spellbinding historical fiction novel based on the true story of the infamous Dozier School for Boys which operated from 1900 to 2011 in Marianna, Florida. Despite the dark subject matter, I really enjoyed this multi-layered and suspenseful story. 

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist

Staff Picks: Craft: Stories I Wrote for the Devil by Ananda Lima

Craft: Stories I Wrote for the Devil by Ananda Lima

He was sick of being blamed for things that could be fixed,
with a little more understanding. The Devil told them about
the brain, but they only ended up with the abomination of
lobotomy. 

 From Craft: Stories I Wrote for the Devil by Ananda Lima

After meeting the devil at a Halloween party in 1999, the main character in Ananda Lima’s debut short story collection feels the presence of the fallen angel at key moments in her life for the following two decades. 

Nonfiction Book Recommendations: My Organic Life by Nora Pouillon

 

My Organic Life: How a Pioneering Chef Helped Shape the Way We Eat Today by Nora Pouillon

Did you know that sales of organic goods still represent only six percent of all food sold in U.S?  Have you ever wondered why organic foods are less popular than other food choices? Are these foods better for our bodies and environment? There is an ongoing debate about whether these foods are healthy or not. 

If you want to explore the history of organic foods with a personal touch, then this book is a must read as it is a personal memoir of an author who is quite expressive about her love for organic foods. 

HollowFest at the Cumming Library

Event image credit: RyanJLane from

Getty Images Signature via Canva.com

If you're looking for a hauntingly good time, then the Cumming Library is just the place for you! Join us for HollowFest, an adult program series all about Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Don't worry - we won't have headless phantoms roaming about (unless you count a paper horseman), but we will have an abundance of creepy stories and crafts.

Friends of the Library Book Recommendations: Historical Fiction with Social Commentary

One Sunday morning while enjoying a warm cup of tea, I beamed over the variety of books that I devoured this spring and summer. The following books stood out to me as part historical fiction and part social commentary about how words shape and define the way the world views women. 

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

If you have ever owned a physical dictionary you will be in awe of the behind the scenes view this book offers on what went into the process of publishing the very first Oxford English Dictionary. Set in the late 1800s, the story unfolds the coming of age journey of Esme, who is motherless and grows up with a lexicographer father surrounded by words and dictionary men. As she spends time in the Oxford shed, she realizes that not all of the public word submissions are considered and recorded by the team - especially ones based on the experiences of women and common folk. I found myself enjoying the audiobook version as I accompanied Esme in her pursuit of building her own dictionary of such lost words.

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

When I first got hold of this popular book club pick (which is also a recent TV show adaptation), I was not expecting to be delighted by the cute but weird observations of a pet (a very important character) and his perspective of the humans surrounding him. All non central characters provide their peculiar thoughts and opinions on what it means to be a woman (working or not) in the 1960s. The book tells a vivid story of Elizabeth Zott whose path to becoming a scientist proves to be quite an obstacle course including plenty of twists of fate including emotional ups and downs. I enjoyed how the story sheds light on the importance of having role models that inspire people to think beyond their sense of self and allies that provide much needed support.

Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

I categorize this book as half historical fiction partly because of its small paperback size and mostly because it is more contemporary while still being informed by history. Despite its petiteness, this personal letter style response to Adhichie's friend, packs quite a punch. If you have ever been skeptic of whether or not to call yourself a feminist and its titular perception, you are more than likely to enjoy it. The book presents exceptional ideas and food for thought to discuss feminism without being preachy or over the top.

Smriti

Friends of the Library Volunteer

Staff Picks: The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill

 

The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill

The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill is a real treat for bibliophiles and mystery fans. This clever literary mystery revolves around four strangers who meet by chance in the Reading Room at the Boston Public Library. Friendships develop when a body is discovered at the library and the four new friends decide to investigate further. 

The novel’s first twist is that Cain, Marigold, Freddie, and Whit exist only as characters in an Australian author’s work in progress. Each chapter of Hannah Tigone’s story about the amateur sleuths is followed by a thoughtful response from an earnest beta reader living in Boston. Along with his personal observations about the emerging pandemic, fanboy Leo offers unique insights into American customs and Boston geography. As the story progresses, uncanny similarities begin to develop between Leo's correspondence with Hannah and the mystery within the story.

Just like her character Hannah, Sulari Gentil is an Australian author whose books are finding fans around the globe. The Woman in the Library is a masterfully crafted example of metafiction, a novel that emphasizes its narrative structure to remind readers they're reading a fictional work. 

Other works of metafiction include Slaughterhouse-five by Kurt Vonnegut, Hell of a Book by Jason Mott, Beatlebone by Kevin Barry, and Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth. 

Visit your local library to find your next read and maybe discover a mystery of your own. 

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist

Boston Public Libary Reading Room
Monica Volpin image via Canva

Staff Picks: Realistic Teen Fiction

The Best Man by Richard Peck

Archer Magill navigates making new friends, thwarting school bullies, serving in wedding parties, and dealing with family emergencies in a story that chronicles a young man's event-filled transition from elementary to middle school. The Best Man is a relatable book that emphasizes positive male role models of various generations.  

Richard Peck was a Newbery Award winning author, former teacher, and the first children's book author to receive the National Humanities Medal.

Find more realistic teen fiction and great teen reads in all genres at forsythpl.org/teens or ask a staff member for book recommendations. You can also use this form for personalized reading suggestions. 

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist. 

Unreadable: Podcast Transcript - September 2024

Smokey Bear turns 80 this year, and to celebrate you can participate in the Smokey Bear Reading Challenge. What's that? In this episode of Unreadable, Ross speaks with Sarah Brubaker, Programming Manager at FCPL, about the challenge, including how to sign up and how to earn prizes. 

This episode also includes listener submitted reviews! 

Meet FCPL's September Library Limelight: Board Member Flo Valdes!

This month, we are so pleased to welcome Flo Valdes as FCPL’s new Board member representing District 2!

Originally from Miami, Florida, Flo offers a fresh perspective and a passion for community service to FCPL. Despite being new to the Library Board, Flo is already bringing lots of enthusiasm and is ready to make an impact. 

Flo's decision to join FCPL as a Board member comes from her deep-rooted commitment to community engagement. "Community service is a passion of mine," she explains. "I enjoy connecting with my fellow community members in meaningful ways." Flo views her position as an opportunity to support literacy, education, and access to information while influencing positive changes in the library system. She looks forward to getting to know the patrons and staff that make our system so exceptional.

Picture Books about Native American Culture

Some books are mirrors, reflecting characters that readers can relate to, while others are windows, offering a view of someone else's world. These picture books highlight Native American culture. 

We Are Grateful Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell; illustrated by Frané Lessac

We Are Grateful chronicles seasonal celebrations and traditions of the Cherokee Nation. The picture book is filled with colorful and interesting illustrations by award-winning illustrator Franė Lessac that portray Cherokee customs and traditions like gathering wild onions, singing lullabies, making corn husk dolls, and sewing moccasins. Illustrations also include a Cherokee family welcoming their new baby, grieving for an uncle who has passed on, and serving in the armed forces. 

Traci Sorell is a member of the Cherokee Nation who writes books to show young people that Native Nations and their citizens still exist and thrive today.

Picture Books about Families Sharing Traditions

Some books are mirrors, reflecting characters that readers can relate to, while others are windows, offering a view of someone else's world. These picture books artistically illustrate the ways that immigrant families from different parts of the world observe traditions from their homelands. 

A Different Pond by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui

A boy and his father go fishing in the early morning hours and then make a meal of the fresh carp they catch.

A Different Pond is a Caldecott Honor Book inspired by author Bao Phi’s childhood in Minneapolis. Phi’s simple story realistically portrays a Vietnamese family making a new home in the United States while thoughtful illustrations by Thi Bui convey some of the complexities of life for immigrants and refugees.

Picture Books about Living Your Dream

 

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed; illustrated by Stasia Burrington

What is your dream? 

An elementary school assignment sparked one Alabama student’s desire to view earth from space. But when young Mae Jemison first voiced her dream of being an astronaut, her teacher, suggested nursing would be a better fit for the bright African American girl. Mae’s parents strongly encouraged her to follow her own dream. In 1992, Dr. Mae Jemison became the first African American woman in space. Onboard the space shuttle Endeavour, Mae took a moment to wave to her proud parents back on Earth. 

Picture Books About Courage

Some books are mirrors, reflecting characters that readers can relate to, while others are windows, offering a view of someone else's world. These inspiring picture books reveal real life acts of courage. 

The Proudest Blue, a Story of Hibab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad 

Before she became the first Muslim American woman in hijab to compete for the United States in the Olympic Games, Ibtihaj Muhammad’s middle school classmates questioned her custom of covering her hair with a headscarf. The Proudest Blue explains the hijab as a meaningful rite of passage for young Muslim women and illustrates the strong bonds between sisters. Young children will love the colorful illustrations by Hatem Aly in this beautiful picture book about family and resilience. 

Picture Books for Young Artists

 

Some books are mirrors, reflecting characters that readers can relate to, while others are windows, offering a view of someone else's world. Aspiring young artists may see themselves in these richly illustrated picture books.

Drawn Together by Minh Lê; illustrated by Dan Santat

Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat’s dynamic artwork transports readers to a dragon-filled fantasy world in Drawn Together by Vietnamese-American author Minh Lê. This imaginative book uses vivid imagery to reveal a tender story of a boy and his grandfather who overcome generational and language barriers and bond over their mutual love of art. 

Friends of the Library Book Recommendations: Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks

 

Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks

Yes, you read that right. That is indeed the name of the short story collection written and read by actor, Tom Hanks. I didn't quite know what to expect when I first chose to dip my toes into the audio version of this book. I am happy to report that it was time well spent, whether I had it to accompany me during a walk, running errands, or driving somewhere. 

The book is a collection of sixteen short stories that encompasses themes of relationship, nostalgia, human nature, trauma, technological advancements, and immigrant experiences. Although these stories can be enjoyed independently to an extent, I would recommend reading them in order.

There are a multitude of repeated characters that are woven into some of these stories. My personal favorite, and the one that made me forget that this is a fictional story and not a memoir has to be: “Three Exhausting Weeks”, the first story in the collection. It is upbeat, funny, and keeps you hooked.

Back to School Books - Preschool

As kids go back to school, they may want to read books they can relate to. Here are some of the best picture book recommendations for preschool. 

Preschool Here I Come by David Steinberg

Is your child ready for preschool? This book will help them as they adjust to their new schedule. 

Back to School Books for Teens

 As kids go back to school, they may want to read books they can relate to. Here are a few book recommendations for teens.

Jayson Goes for It! by Brayden Harrington

This book is about an eighth grader with a stutter who grows his self-confidence as he works to make his school a more inclusive space by running for student class president. It’s great for middle schoolers who feel like they don’t belong.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

This coming-of-age novel is a more serious story for older teens focusing on finding your voice and navigating the complexities of maturing as a teenager. This is a good choice for teens who relate to introversion and shyness, wanting to learn the intricacies of the teen social life. 

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

This teen graphic novel is about five misfits who are seemingly very different but come together to complete a community service project for their school. As they get to know each other, they learn they have a lot in common, including speaking Spanish. This book encourages individuality in teens. 

 

Britt Poteet

Youth Services Specialist

Back to School Books - Chapter Books

 As kids go back to school, they may want to read books they can relate to. Here are a few chapter book recommendations for kids.

My Weird School Series by Dan Gutman

These silly chapter books are perfect for beginning readers who want to laugh about shenanigans at this fictional school. As they enter a new school year, they can enjoy these humorous books.

Spy School by Stuart Gibbs

These mystery books focus on a junior CIA agent going to a special academy. This fun series will let your child use their imagination as they enter the school year. 

Lola Levine is not Mean! by Monica Brown

This book is about a second-grader who accidentally hurts a classmate during a soccer game and is teased for it. Readers will cheer for her to prove to everyone she isn’t mean and learn how to make amends nicely. 

The New Kid by Jerry Craft 

If your child likes graphic novels, this is a great book about school. This kid has to go to a new private school as one of the only students of color. It follows him as he navigates two worlds and adjusts to his new normal.

Britt Poteet

Youth Services Specialist