David H. on Outline by Rachel Cusk: The first in Cusk’s “Outline” trilogy, Outline follows less of a traditional narrative and is more of a series of conversations. Although Cusk’s prose is beautiful, veering often into astute observations into the human condition, the pace of the book is fairly one-note. Each chapter moves along gradually, following Faye, a writer teaching a summer workshop in Greece, and the moments we find ourselves in are occasionally as languid as the heat frequently alluded to. The book is at its most successful when it is at its least objective—and these moments of narrative tension, however brief, feel all the more rewarding.
Deborah H. on Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory: Like her other books, this book was fun and, while not totally believable, it was engaging and addressed some challenging topics while also being entertaining.
Ronald P. on On Cats by Charles Bukowski: Wonderful small collection of short fiction, anecdotes and poetry by Charles Bukowski—all pieces involving those wonderful felines. Definitely not a child’s book…but that was Bukowski. Mr Bukowski was particularly fond of cats.
Naomi C. on Cilka’s Journey by Heather Morris: I absolutely loved this book from the moment I started reading it. I felt invested and connected to the main character, Cilka, really quickly. The description of the struggles she and the other prisoners go through is heartbreaking; the story pulls you in immediately. I haven’t read The Tattooist of Auschwitz yet (the prequel to this) but I loved the author’s writing style and am looking forward to reading it.
Danielle P. on Amazons, Abolitionists, and Activists by Mikki Kendall : Excellent graphic novel and should be required reading for students of all genders! Would’ve meant a lot to me to read this as a child.
Kyra E. on Mean Streak by Sandra Brown: This book was the perfect combo of suspense and romance.
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