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BostonPL_BPL Staff Picks: October 2023

By:

BostonPL_ReadersAdvisory

Boston Public Library

Staff-created list

Every month staff from across the Boston Public Library system recommend their favorite books for all ages across a variety of genres. We hope this list inspires you to keep reading! Some of these titles may be available in other formats or languages. Check our catalog for availability. Place a hold or check one out today and enjoy a good book! #BPLStaffPicks

By:

BostonPL_ReadersAdvisory

Boston Public Library

16 items

16 items

Braiding Sweetgrass

Braiding Sweetgrass

Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants

by Kimmerer, Robin Wall

Book - 2020

Memoir/Nonfiction. Kimmerer is both a botanist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Here, she combines her knowledge of plants and personal stor...Show more Memoir/Nonfiction. Kimmerer is both a botanist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Here, she combines her knowledge of plants and personal stories into one beautiful and heartbreaking memoir. This is a book that needs to be taken in slowly and savored rather than rushed and I appreciated that she makes plant knowledge accessible and interesting. - JordanD., Central Library Show less

Memoir/Nonfiction. Kimmerer is both a botanist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Here, she combines her knowledge of plants and personal stor...Show more Memoir/Nonfiction. Kimmerer is both a botanist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Here, she combines her knowledge of plants and personal stories into one beautiful and heartbreaking memoir. This is a book that needs to be taken in slowly and savored rather than rushed and I appreciated that she makes plant knowledge accessible and interesting. - JordanD., Central Library Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 4 on 14 copies

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You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight

You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight

by Bayron, Kalynn

eBook - 2023

Teen Horror. When Charity's summer job helping to run a full-contact horror experience goes wrong, she and her friends find themselves fighting for their ...Show more Teen Horror. When Charity's summer job helping to run a full-contact horror experience goes wrong, she and her friends find themselves fighting for their lives in a real life slasher scenario. I've read a lot of YA slashers, and none has felt more true to the genre than this one. A perfect read for Halloween! - Laura B., Central Library Show less

Teen Horror. When Charity's summer job helping to run a full-contact horror experience goes wrong, she and her friends find themselves fighting for their ...Show more Teen Horror. When Charity's summer job helping to run a full-contact horror experience goes wrong, she and her friends find themselves fighting for their lives in a real life slasher scenario. I've read a lot of YA slashers, and none has felt more true to the genre than this one. A perfect read for Halloween! - Laura B., Central Library Show less

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Vampires of El Norte

Vampires of El Norte

by Cañas, Isabel

Book - 2023

Fiction. Vampires and vaqueros face off on the Texas-Mexico border in this supernatural western from the author of The Hacienda. I loved this gothic weste...Show more Fiction. Vampires and vaqueros face off on the Texas-Mexico border in this supernatural western from the author of The Hacienda. I loved this gothic western which had just enough horror and just enough romance. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a spooky read this October! - Liz B., Fields Corner Branch Library Show less

Fiction. Vampires and vaqueros face off on the Texas-Mexico border in this supernatural western from the author of The Hacienda. I loved this gothic weste...Show more Fiction. Vampires and vaqueros face off on the Texas-Mexico border in this supernatural western from the author of The Hacienda. I loved this gothic western which had just enough horror and just enough romance. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a spooky read this October! - Liz B., Fields Corner Branch Library Show less

Available in some locations

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Thornhedge

Thornhedge

by Kingfisher, T.

eBook - 2023

Fantasy. A fun, interesting re-telling of the Sleeping Beauty story. I enjoyed the twist ending. - Shane J., Charlestown Branch Library Fantasy. A fun, interesting re-telling of the Sleeping Beauty story. I enjoyed the twist ending. - Shane J., Charlestown Branch Library Show less

Fantasy. A fun, interesting re-telling of the Sleeping Beauty story. I enjoyed the twist ending. - Shane J., Charlestown Branch Library Fantasy. A fun, interesting re-telling of the Sleeping Beauty story. I enjoyed the twist ending. - Shane J., Charlestown Branch Library Show less

Not Currently Available.Holds: 67 on 7 Volumes

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When the Angels Left the Old Country

When the Angels Left the Old Country

by Lamb, Sacha

eBook - 2022

Historical fantasy. An angel and a demon who have been Torah study partners in a small nameless shtetl for centuries decide to emigrate to the United Stat...Show more Historical fantasy. An angel and a demon who have been Torah study partners in a small nameless shtetl for centuries decide to emigrate to the United States in search of a girl from their village. On their journey, they have to contend with con men, ghosts, fellow Jewish emigrants, dybbuks, and a garment workers' strike. - Puck M., Central Library Show less

Historical fantasy. An angel and a demon who have been Torah study partners in a small nameless shtetl for centuries decide to emigrate to the United Stat...Show more Historical fantasy. An angel and a demon who have been Torah study partners in a small nameless shtetl for centuries decide to emigrate to the United States in search of a girl from their village. On their journey, they have to contend with con men, ghosts, fellow Jewish emigrants, dybbuks, and a garment workers' strike. - Puck M., Central Library Show less

Not Currently Available.Holds: 3 on 4 Volumes

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A Fire Upon the Deep

A Fire Upon the Deep

by Vinge, Vernor

Downloadable Audiobook - 2010

Science Fiction. An incredible space opera that resonates with modern society. Featuring: Artificial Intelligence, Alien Civilizations, humanity as immigrants within galactic civilization, and much more! - Elise C., Lower Mills Branch Library Science Fiction. An incredible space opera that resonates with modern society. Featuring: Artificial Intelligence, Alien Civilizations, humanity as immigrants within galactic civilization, and much more! - Elise C., Lower Mills Branch Library Show less

Science Fiction. An incredible space opera that resonates with modern society. Featuring: Artificial Intelligence, Alien Civilizations, humanity as immigrants within galactic civilization, and much more! - Elise C., Lower Mills Branch Library Science Fiction. An incredible space opera that resonates with modern society. Featuring: Artificial Intelligence, Alien Civilizations, humanity as immigrants within galactic civilization, and much more! - Elise C., Lower Mills Branch Library Show less

Not Currently Available.Holds: 8 on 2 Volumes

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Figure It Out, Henri Weldon

Figure It Out, Henri Weldon

by Davis, Tanita S.

Book - 2023

Children's Chapter Book. Starting 7th grade in a new school is tough for Henrietta Weldon. Math, new friends and sister troubles might make this a hard ye...Show more Children's Chapter Book. Starting 7th grade in a new school is tough for Henrietta Weldon. Math, new friends and sister troubles might make this a hard year, unless she can figure some things out! I loved this book for Henri's perseverance and a very special rat that we get to know. - Maggie L., Central Library Show less

Children's Chapter Book. Starting 7th grade in a new school is tough for Henrietta Weldon. Math, new friends and sister troubles might make this a hard ye...Show more Children's Chapter Book. Starting 7th grade in a new school is tough for Henrietta Weldon. Math, new friends and sister troubles might make this a hard year, unless she can figure some things out! I loved this book for Henri's perseverance and a very special rat that we get to know. - Maggie L., Central Library Show less

Available in some locations

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As I Descended

As I Descended

by Talley, Robin

eBook - 2016

Teen Horror. In this modern "Macbeth" retelling, Maria and Lily are trying to keep their relationship under wraps, but popular Delilah has her s...Show more Teen Horror. In this modern "Macbeth" retelling, Maria and Lily are trying to keep their relationship under wraps, but popular Delilah has her suspicions. She doesn't realize that the two are willing to do whatever it takes to preserve their secrets -- even murder. I always enjoy queering Shakespeare, but the atmosphere is what makes this really stand out. The stormy Southern Gothic-ness pulled me in immediately and made me feel as if I was in the book myself. - Morgan H., Chinatown Branch Library Show less

Teen Horror. In this modern "Macbeth" retelling, Maria and Lily are trying to keep their relationship under wraps, but popular Delilah has her s...Show more Teen Horror. In this modern "Macbeth" retelling, Maria and Lily are trying to keep their relationship under wraps, but popular Delilah has her suspicions. She doesn't realize that the two are willing to do whatever it takes to preserve their secrets -- even murder. I always enjoy queering Shakespeare, but the atmosphere is what makes this really stand out. The stormy Southern Gothic-ness pulled me in immediately and made me feel as if I was in the book myself. - Morgan H., Chinatown Branch Library Show less

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You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight

You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight

by Bayron, Kalynn

Book - 2023

Teen Horror. Charity Curtis has the summer job of her dreams, playing the "final girl" at Camp Mirror Lake, a full-contact terror game … But thi...Show more Teen Horror. Charity Curtis has the summer job of her dreams, playing the "final girl" at Camp Mirror Lake, a full-contact terror game … But this summer, someone is taking the game too far. If you think you know where this tribute to horror films and final girls will lead, you and Charity are guaranteed a surprise. Charity and her girlfriend Bezi immediately made their way into my heart, and the suspense kept me glued to the pages, with a truly captivating ending. - Kris L., Brighton Branch Library Show less

Teen Horror. Charity Curtis has the summer job of her dreams, playing the "final girl" at Camp Mirror Lake, a full-contact terror game … But thi...Show more Teen Horror. Charity Curtis has the summer job of her dreams, playing the "final girl" at Camp Mirror Lake, a full-contact terror game … But this summer, someone is taking the game too far. If you think you know where this tribute to horror films and final girls will lead, you and Charity are guaranteed a surprise. Charity and her girlfriend Bezi immediately made their way into my heart, and the suspense kept me glued to the pages, with a truly captivating ending. - Kris L., Brighton Branch Library Show less

Available in some locations

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Witchlings

Witchlings

by Ortega, Claribel A.

eBook - 2022

Children's Fantasy. Witchling Seven Salazar is so excited to join a coven with her best friend, but instead gets placed as a spare. Spares are less powerf...Show more Children's Fantasy. Witchling Seven Salazar is so excited to join a coven with her best friend, but instead gets placed as a spare. Spares are less powerful than the rest of the witches in this society, both magically and politically, so Seven and her new fellow spares must complete an impossible task to become a real coven and gain their full witch powers. Adventure with the witchlings as they fight a giant beast and evil witches trying to keep them down! This, and the new sequel, are perfect reads for October! - Amy B., Central Library Show less

Children's Fantasy. Witchling Seven Salazar is so excited to join a coven with her best friend, but instead gets placed as a spare. Spares are less powerf...Show more Children's Fantasy. Witchling Seven Salazar is so excited to join a coven with her best friend, but instead gets placed as a spare. Spares are less powerful than the rest of the witches in this society, both magically and politically, so Seven and her new fellow spares must complete an impossible task to become a real coven and gain their full witch powers. Adventure with the witchlings as they fight a giant beast and evil witches trying to keep them down! This, and the new sequel, are perfect reads for October! - Amy B., Central Library Show less

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Marry Him

Marry Him

The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough

by Gottlieb, Lori

Downloadable Audiobook - 2021

Nonfiction. Lori Gottlieb's "Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough" offers a refreshingly candid exploration of her own dating mi...Show more Nonfiction. Lori Gottlieb's "Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough" offers a refreshingly candid exploration of her own dating misadventures and the pitfalls of seeking an elusive "Mr. Right." With brutal honesty, she dismantles the myth of a perfect partner, emphasizing the practical wisdom of prioritizing core values over an exhaustive checklist. Gottlieb's willingness to share her personal journey makes this book compelling, relatable, and thought-provoking for anyone navigating the complex terrain of modern dating. - Paul F., Honan Allston Branch Library Show less

Nonfiction. Lori Gottlieb's "Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough" offers a refreshingly candid exploration of her own dating mi...Show more Nonfiction. Lori Gottlieb's "Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough" offers a refreshingly candid exploration of her own dating misadventures and the pitfalls of seeking an elusive "Mr. Right." With brutal honesty, she dismantles the myth of a perfect partner, emphasizing the practical wisdom of prioritizing core values over an exhaustive checklist. Gottlieb's willingness to share her personal journey makes this book compelling, relatable, and thought-provoking for anyone navigating the complex terrain of modern dating. - Paul F., Honan Allston Branch Library Show less

Not Currently Available.Holds: 55 on 4 Volumes

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Northranger

Northranger

by Terciero, Rey

Graphic Novel - 2023

Teen Graphic Novel. Inspired by the Gothic romantic themes of Northanger Abbey, this YA graphic novel is spooky, sweet, and addresses issues like homophob...Show more Teen Graphic Novel. Inspired by the Gothic romantic themes of Northanger Abbey, this YA graphic novel is spooky, sweet, and addresses issues like homophobia, racism, and mental health in a thought-provoking way that will stay with you long after you finish its pages. Cade loves horror movies, but nothing he's ever watched could be as scary as being told he's being sent to work as a ranch hand for the summer to help his family make ends meet. But it's not all bad. Cade also finds himself in his first relationship with Henry, the owner's son. But Cade can't shake the feeling that Henry and his dad are hiding something. Is it the result of too many scary movies, or is Cade in serious danger? It's been weeks since I've read this and I'm STILL thinking about how incredible this story was. A must-read! - Patty L., Central Library Show less

Teen Graphic Novel. Inspired by the Gothic romantic themes of Northanger Abbey, this YA graphic novel is spooky, sweet, and addresses issues like homophob...Show more Teen Graphic Novel. Inspired by the Gothic romantic themes of Northanger Abbey, this YA graphic novel is spooky, sweet, and addresses issues like homophobia, racism, and mental health in a thought-provoking way that will stay with you long after you finish its pages. Cade loves horror movies, but nothing he's ever watched could be as scary as being told he's being sent to work as a ranch hand for the summer to help his family make ends meet. But it's not all bad. Cade also finds himself in his first relationship with Henry, the owner's son. But Cade can't shake the feeling that Henry and his dad are hiding something. Is it the result of too many scary movies, or is Cade in serious danger? It's been weeks since I've read this and I'm STILL thinking about how incredible this story was. A must-read! - Patty L., Central Library Show less

Available in some locations

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Juliette, or the Ghosts Return in the Spring

Juliette, or the Ghosts Return in the Spring

by Jourdy, Camille

Graphic Novel - 2023

Graphic Novel. When Juliette returns to her hometown from Paris, she discovers a variety of well-kept family secrets all the while making unexpected frien...Show more Graphic Novel. When Juliette returns to her hometown from Paris, she discovers a variety of well-kept family secrets all the while making unexpected friends with a local drunk and a duckling. This book is a perfect slice of pastoral life, brought to another dimension with Jourdy's beautiful watercolors and near-nostalgic word choice. As Juliette learns to navigate her youth as a now-adult, we too are instilled with a sense of homesickness and longing. - Amy L., Parker Hill Branch Library Show less

Graphic Novel. When Juliette returns to her hometown from Paris, she discovers a variety of well-kept family secrets all the while making unexpected frien...Show more Graphic Novel. When Juliette returns to her hometown from Paris, she discovers a variety of well-kept family secrets all the while making unexpected friends with a local drunk and a duckling. This book is a perfect slice of pastoral life, brought to another dimension with Jourdy's beautiful watercolors and near-nostalgic word choice. As Juliette learns to navigate her youth as a now-adult, we too are instilled with a sense of homesickness and longing. - Amy L., Parker Hill Branch Library Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 1 on 2 copies

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The Water Outlaws

The Water Outlaws

by Huang, S. L.

Book - 2023

Historical Fantasy. This genderbent retelling of the classic 14th century Chinese novel The Water Margin is a compelling combination of lovable characters...Show more Historical Fantasy. This genderbent retelling of the classic 14th century Chinese novel The Water Margin is a compelling combination of lovable characters and increasingly complex moral conundrums. When Lin Chong, the lawful good heroine around whom the plot revolves, abruptly discovers that the system she has defended all her life is designed to protect corrupt and powerful men instead of justice, she must turn to honorable banditry in the company of other women to survive. But as their resistance escalates, so does the level of violence. Your favorite characters are not safe in this book! But it also feels good and triumphant, despite the beloved characters we've lost, at the end. - VeronicaK., Central Library Show less

Historical Fantasy. This genderbent retelling of the classic 14th century Chinese novel The Water Margin is a compelling combination of lovable characters...Show more Historical Fantasy. This genderbent retelling of the classic 14th century Chinese novel The Water Margin is a compelling combination of lovable characters and increasingly complex moral conundrums. When Lin Chong, the lawful good heroine around whom the plot revolves, abruptly discovers that the system she has defended all her life is designed to protect corrupt and powerful men instead of justice, she must turn to honorable banditry in the company of other women to survive. But as their resistance escalates, so does the level of violence. Your favorite characters are not safe in this book! But it also feels good and triumphant, despite the beloved characters we've lost, at the end. - VeronicaK., Central Library Show less

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The Station Cat

The Station Cat

A Story of Kindness and Hope

by Hogtun, Stephen

Book - 2022

Children's Picture Book. An abandoned black kitten with jade green eyes and a magical gift wanders into a train station looking for affection and kindness...Show more Children's Picture Book. An abandoned black kitten with jade green eyes and a magical gift wanders into a train station looking for affection and kindness. She receives these after providing them for others and earns her ultimate reward! This is a touching story about the impact we have on others' lives when we are kind and sensitive to their needs in an oft dreary world. It's a wordier picture book that could be used to expand a child's vocabulary. - Jordan C., Central Library Show less

Children's Picture Book. An abandoned black kitten with jade green eyes and a magical gift wanders into a train station looking for affection and kindness...Show more Children's Picture Book. An abandoned black kitten with jade green eyes and a magical gift wanders into a train station looking for affection and kindness. She receives these after providing them for others and earns her ultimate reward! This is a touching story about the impact we have on others' lives when we are kind and sensitive to their needs in an oft dreary world. It's a wordier picture book that could be used to expand a child's vocabulary. - Jordan C., Central Library Show less

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Loveless

Loveless

by Oseman, Alice

eBook - 2022

Teen Fiction. In her first year of university, Georgia juggles new friendships, holding on to old ones, theatre, and exploring her own sexual and romantic...Show more Teen Fiction. In her first year of university, Georgia juggles new friendships, holding on to old ones, theatre, and exploring her own sexual and romantic attractions - or lack thereof. The care and attention given to aromantic and asexual identites was extremely thorough and I was so touched by how beautifully Oseman celebrates platonic love. - Ayelet R., Jamaica Plain Branch Library Show less

Teen Fiction. In her first year of university, Georgia juggles new friendships, holding on to old ones, theatre, and exploring her own sexual and romantic...Show more Teen Fiction. In her first year of university, Georgia juggles new friendships, holding on to old ones, theatre, and exploring her own sexual and romantic attractions - or lack thereof. The care and attention given to aromantic and asexual identites was extremely thorough and I was so touched by how beautifully Oseman celebrates platonic love. - Ayelet R., Jamaica Plain Branch Library Show less

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