Melissa's Picks
A Wolf Called Wander by Rosanne Parry
What would it be like to be a wolf? It's one thing to part of a pack - your family. It's a lot more challenging and scary to be on your own, trying to survive. Based on a real wolf, Swift tells his story so honestly and vividly. I felt like I was on the journey with him. When a book like this comes along, I feel so grateful to be able to share it with as many readers as I can reach.
Women Talking by Miriam Toews
Powerful novel based on events that happened in a Mennonite village. Brutal attacks the men tried to cover up. The women secretly meet to decide what to do. Unable to read or write, they ask a villager to take "minutes" of their meetings. They argue, laugh, cry, & lead each other to a big decision. I'll think about this book for a long time.
The Lost Man by Jane Harper
One of my new favorite suspense writers. Harper's books are very well-written with enough complexity to keep you guessing throughout the book. Many interesting characters - both family members and foes - whose lives intersect in the heat of the Australian Outback. A great read!
Watching You by Lisa Jewell
Ignore your "to do" list and carve out a chunk of time for "Watching You"! Lisa Jewell's latest thriller unfolded layer by layer, watcher by watcher. Trying to figure out who actually committed the murder and why was immensely satisfying. Afterwards, you may just look over your shoulder to see if anyone is watching you!
The Honey Bus by Meredith May
Part memoir, part nature story, woven together so well. Meredith had a difficult childhood, but a wise, loving grandfather taught her about bees. The bees in turn taught Meredith so much - hard work, resilience and what family really means. Life lessons on the Honey Bus. A memorable book!
48 Hours by William Forstchen
Yikes! Another "this could really happen" thriller. A CME (Coronal Mass Ejection) from the sun threatens all living beings on earth! What would you do? Seek out precious moments with family? Become a desperate, panicked looter? Besides the science in his books, Forstchen does a great job writing about humanity and morality.
The Current by Tim Johnston
Oooh I love Tim Johnston's novels! His writing draws you into the story, place and characters so well. A car plunges into a freezing river. One young woman lives, another dies. An accident or something much more sinister? I loved the Descent and this novel is even better. A suspenseful, literary read!
The Trail by Meika Hashimoto
Great adventure story! Toby takes off for the Appalachian Trail, determined to finish The List he started with his best friend Lucas. It's a lot harder and scarier than he imagined. Along the way he confronts his fears and negative thoughts about himself. He makes a few unlikely friends along the way and grows into quite a young man. Highly recommended!
How to Be a Good Creature by Sy Montgomery
One of my favorite books in quite some time. Sy seems to connect on such a deep level with the animals she encounters. She strives to become a good creature and through her stories I see how I want to become a good creature too. Beautifully told and wonderful illustrations. A special book!
Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy
So many thought-provoking, helpful tips and tricks. We are bombarded with information and distractions every day. Tracy helps cut through the unnecessary things on our lists & on our mind. Do the most critical items in the first part of your day. Seems like common sense! Here's to a more productive approach to work - and life!
5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace by Gary Chapman
Our new "all-company" read - so helpful in understanding what motivates employees and builds teamwork. No need to have read The 5 Love Languages first. I'm continually looking for ways to thank my staff for their efforts and commitment to our store. I found this book practical and helpful.
Rising Out of Hatred by Eli Salsow
What a timely and important read! Eli Saslow does an excellent job depicting Derek Black's ultimate realization that his long-held beliefs about race are not based on facts.
​
It was a wonderful reminder that being willing to listen and befriend people who have different beliefs can create real, positive change.
When the Lights Go Out by Mary Kubica
I enjoyed Mary Kubica's latest thriller. Parallel stories - Jessie whose mother is dying & she is afraid to be alone in the world without her. Eden who desperately wants a child. Their stories are woven together with clever twists along the way. Her books are so compelling & well done!
The Weight of Night by Christine Carbo
This is the fourth book in the "Glacier Mystery Series" and I think it is the best one yet! I love how Carbo weaves together the current story along with the backstory of a character we've met in a previous book. Nature is a consistent character throughout the books. I feel like I am out there - on a cold fall day, looking for a sighting!
Dear Rachel Maddow by Adrienne Kisner
Great debut YA novel! Brynn's life at home and at school has been difficult, if not depressing. An assignment to write to a celebrity turns into draft emails to Rachel Maddow. Over time Brynn starts to see that she does matter and can make a difference. A fun read!
The Perfect Mother by Aimee Molloy
The Perfect Mother is full of twists and surprises. The mothers in the story all have secrets from their partners and each other. The strain of life as with a newborn is too much for each "mommy" in different ways. The last quarter of the book I just kept on reading instead of working...
Great new addition to the thriller genre!
