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BostonPL_BPL Staff Picks: May 2021

By:

BostonPL_ReadersAdvisory

Boston Public Library

Staff-created list

Every month staff from the Boston Public Library 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

15 items

15 items

The Echo Wife

The Echo Wife

by Gailey, Sarah

eBook - 2021

Science Fiction. Dr. Evelyn Caldwell, the woman whose research broke new ground in the science of cloning genetic replicas, discovers that her husband is ...Show more Science Fiction. Dr. Evelyn Caldwell, the woman whose research broke new ground in the science of cloning genetic replicas, discovers that her husband is cheating on her... with her own clone. When the affair comes to light, the husband ends up dead, and Evelyn and her clone must work together to evade the law. This sci-fi novel puts an original spin on the traditional domestic thriller, and I simply could not put it down! - KirstenD Show less

Science Fiction. Dr. Evelyn Caldwell, the woman whose research broke new ground in the science of cloning genetic replicas, discovers that her husband is ...Show more Science Fiction. Dr. Evelyn Caldwell, the woman whose research broke new ground in the science of cloning genetic replicas, discovers that her husband is cheating on her... with her own clone. When the affair comes to light, the husband ends up dead, and Evelyn and her clone must work together to evade the law. This sci-fi novel puts an original spin on the traditional domestic thriller, and I simply could not put it down! - KirstenD Show less

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Harbinger

Harbinger

Book 1

by Dysart, Josh

Graphic Novel - 2013

Graphic Novel. I recently found myself deeply engrossed in the Valiant superhero universe, rapidly devouring story after story of innovative action, fanta...Show more Graphic Novel. I recently found myself deeply engrossed in the Valiant superhero universe, rapidly devouring story after story of innovative action, fantasy, and magic, all making potentially familiar comic themes breathe alive again. Harbinger is the easiest one to get into - a riff on the super-powered team of outcasts, a la X-Men, coming together to defeat a megalomaniacal foe. The writers bring a diverse cast of three dimensional and believable heroes and villains into the mix with wild and unpredictable plotting, excellent pacing, and (mostly) excellent artwork. Exciting, inspiring, and super addictive! - gphatty Show less

Graphic Novel. I recently found myself deeply engrossed in the Valiant superhero universe, rapidly devouring story after story of innovative action, fanta...Show more Graphic Novel. I recently found myself deeply engrossed in the Valiant superhero universe, rapidly devouring story after story of innovative action, fantasy, and magic, all making potentially familiar comic themes breathe alive again. Harbinger is the easiest one to get into - a riff on the super-powered team of outcasts, a la X-Men, coming together to defeat a megalomaniacal foe. The writers bring a diverse cast of three dimensional and believable heroes and villains into the mix with wild and unpredictable plotting, excellent pacing, and (mostly) excellent artwork. Exciting, inspiring, and super addictive! - gphatty Show less

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The Dragon of Lonely Island

The Dragon of Lonely Island

by Rupp, Rebecca

Book - 2006

Children's Fiction. On summer vacation, three siblings meet a friendly three-headed dragon named Fafnyr. Only one head at a time is awake when the childre...Show more Children's Fiction. On summer vacation, three siblings meet a friendly three-headed dragon named Fafnyr. Only one head at a time is awake when the children visit the dragon, but each one has its own unique story to tell about friendship and other life lessons. - Paul Show less

Children's Fiction. On summer vacation, three siblings meet a friendly three-headed dragon named Fafnyr. Only one head at a time is awake when the childre...Show more Children's Fiction. On summer vacation, three siblings meet a friendly three-headed dragon named Fafnyr. Only one head at a time is awake when the children visit the dragon, but each one has its own unique story to tell about friendship and other life lessons. - Paul Show less

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The Mountains Sing

The Mountains Sing

A Novel

by Nguyen, Phan Que Mai

Book - 2020

Fiction. The Mountains Sing tells the multigenerational tale of the Tran family as they thrive, suffer, and rebuild after the horrors of the Land Reform a...Show more Fiction. The Mountains Sing tells the multigenerational tale of the Tran family as they thrive, suffer, and rebuild after the horrors of the Land Reform as well as the Viet Nam War. A moving, lyrical debut about family and survival, and about the history of Vietnam. I cried my way through this one, and I highly recommend it. - Liz B. Show less

Fiction. The Mountains Sing tells the multigenerational tale of the Tran family as they thrive, suffer, and rebuild after the horrors of the Land Reform a...Show more Fiction. The Mountains Sing tells the multigenerational tale of the Tran family as they thrive, suffer, and rebuild after the horrors of the Land Reform as well as the Viet Nam War. A moving, lyrical debut about family and survival, and about the history of Vietnam. I cried my way through this one, and I highly recommend it. - Liz B. Show less

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Murder at Pirate's Cove

Murder at Pirate's Cove

Secrets and Scrabble, Book 1

by Josh Lanyon

eBook - 2020

Cozy Mystery. This series is a little different from Josh's slightly grittier mystery romances, but it's well worth picking up for a relaxing, fun read. T...Show more Cozy Mystery. This series is a little different from Josh's slightly grittier mystery romances, but it's well worth picking up for a relaxing, fun read. The characters are fun, the mystery is gripping, and the romance is slow and sweet. Ellery Page has just inherited both a failing bookstore and a falling-down mansion in the quaint seaside village of Pirate's Cove on Buck Island, Rhode Island. When a rival bookseller is murdered, of course handsome Police Chief Jack Carson suspects Ellery... - JordanD. Show less

Cozy Mystery. This series is a little different from Josh's slightly grittier mystery romances, but it's well worth picking up for a relaxing, fun read. T...Show more Cozy Mystery. This series is a little different from Josh's slightly grittier mystery romances, but it's well worth picking up for a relaxing, fun read. The characters are fun, the mystery is gripping, and the romance is slow and sweet. Ellery Page has just inherited both a failing bookstore and a falling-down mansion in the quaint seaside village of Pirate's Cove on Buck Island, Rhode Island. When a rival bookseller is murdered, of course handsome Police Chief Jack Carson suspects Ellery... - JordanD. Show less

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Starfish

Starfish

by Fipps, Lisa

eBook - 2021

Middle Grade Fiction. This novel in verse is a powerful story of standing up for yourself. Ellie has always lived by "fat girl rules" in an atte...Show more Middle Grade Fiction. This novel in verse is a powerful story of standing up for yourself. Ellie has always lived by "fat girl rules" in an attempt to keep her classmates', siblings', and mother's bullying from hurting her. But with help from her new neighbor, her dad, an understanding therapist, and some unlikely allies, Ellie begins to realize that her body isn't the problem she's been taught it was. - Laura B Show less

Middle Grade Fiction. This novel in verse is a powerful story of standing up for yourself. Ellie has always lived by "fat girl rules" in an atte...Show more Middle Grade Fiction. This novel in verse is a powerful story of standing up for yourself. Ellie has always lived by "fat girl rules" in an attempt to keep her classmates', siblings', and mother's bullying from hurting her. But with help from her new neighbor, her dad, an understanding therapist, and some unlikely allies, Ellie begins to realize that her body isn't the problem she's been taught it was. - Laura B Show less

Not Currently Available.Holds: 2 on 1 Volume

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The Magnolia Sword

The Magnolia Sword

A Ballad of Mulan

by Thomas, Sherry

Book - 2019

Teen Historical Fantasy. If you think you know Mulan, think again... there's no talking dragon here, only a teenage martial artist disguised as her dead t...Show more Teen Historical Fantasy. If you think you know Mulan, think again... there's no talking dragon here, only a teenage martial artist disguised as her dead twin brother on a mission to survive being conscripted into the army. She just might save the kingdom from an enemy invasion while she's there! I loved all the wuxia-influenced details of The Magnolia Sword and learning bits and pieces about China in the 5th century AD. Mulan herself is an incredibly endearing heroine, and the slow build of her rivals-to-friends-to-lovers arc with the prince who is secretly her family's sworn enemy is sheer perfection. Highly recommended! - VeronicaKM Show less

Teen Historical Fantasy. If you think you know Mulan, think again... there's no talking dragon here, only a teenage martial artist disguised as her dead t...Show more Teen Historical Fantasy. If you think you know Mulan, think again... there's no talking dragon here, only a teenage martial artist disguised as her dead twin brother on a mission to survive being conscripted into the army. She just might save the kingdom from an enemy invasion while she's there! I loved all the wuxia-influenced details of The Magnolia Sword and learning bits and pieces about China in the 5th century AD. Mulan herself is an incredibly endearing heroine, and the slow build of her rivals-to-friends-to-lovers arc with the prince who is secretly her family's sworn enemy is sheer perfection. Highly recommended! - VeronicaKM Show less

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The Apothecary Diaries 01 (Manga)

The Apothecary Diaries 01 (Manga)

by Hyuuga, Natsu

eBook - 2020

Historical Manga. After breaking a "curse" on the imperial heirs, a palace servant with training in herbal medicine is promoted up the ranks to ...Show more Historical Manga. After breaking a "curse" on the imperial heirs, a palace servant with training in herbal medicine is promoted up the ranks to food taster...and right into the thick of palace intrigue in this lushly illustrated period mystery series! I had been craving for a historical fiction manga book for a while that really catches my attention. I was so happy to find Apothecary Diaries. I enjoyed the artwork and the story line moved along decently enough. The eBook Manga can be downloaded to Kindle and you read it like a typical Manga.... right to left. Enjoy! - MaryD Show less

Historical Manga. After breaking a "curse" on the imperial heirs, a palace servant with training in herbal medicine is promoted up the ranks to ...Show more Historical Manga. After breaking a "curse" on the imperial heirs, a palace servant with training in herbal medicine is promoted up the ranks to food taster...and right into the thick of palace intrigue in this lushly illustrated period mystery series! I had been craving for a historical fiction manga book for a while that really catches my attention. I was so happy to find Apothecary Diaries. I enjoyed the artwork and the story line moved along decently enough. The eBook Manga can be downloaded to Kindle and you read it like a typical Manga.... right to left. Enjoy! - MaryD Show less

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Memorial

Memorial

A Novel

by Washington, Bryan

eBook - 2020

Fiction. Washington's first full-length novel, Memorial, was an interesting read. There were times where I grew impatient and wasn't sure I was enjoying i...Show more Fiction. Washington's first full-length novel, Memorial, was an interesting read. There were times where I grew impatient and wasn't sure I was enjoying it, but by the end, it all came together, and I felt it was a successful and moving story. Benson, a black man raised in a fractured, middle class family, is dating Mike, a Japanese man whose parents are also divorced and carrying a lot of baggage. Memorial doesn't shy away from difficult relationships, giving their struggles as a couple the same depth and complexity as their parents'. Characters must wrestle with prejudice from all sides, and while there is no easy resolution, there is a sense of relief as things long unspoken are revealed and brought to the surface. A powerful first novel. - MColford Show less

Fiction. Washington's first full-length novel, Memorial, was an interesting read. There were times where I grew impatient and wasn't sure I was enjoying i...Show more Fiction. Washington's first full-length novel, Memorial, was an interesting read. There were times where I grew impatient and wasn't sure I was enjoying it, but by the end, it all came together, and I felt it was a successful and moving story. Benson, a black man raised in a fractured, middle class family, is dating Mike, a Japanese man whose parents are also divorced and carrying a lot of baggage. Memorial doesn't shy away from difficult relationships, giving their struggles as a couple the same depth and complexity as their parents'. Characters must wrestle with prejudice from all sides, and while there is no easy resolution, there is a sense of relief as things long unspoken are revealed and brought to the surface. A powerful first novel. - MColford Show less

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Confronting the Classics

Confronting the Classics

Traditions, Adventures, and Innovations

by Beard, Mary

Book - 2013

Nonfiction. This collection of book reviews by the eminent Cambridge classicist showcases her superb writing and her clear-eyed engagement with both schol...Show more Nonfiction. This collection of book reviews by the eminent Cambridge classicist showcases her superb writing and her clear-eyed engagement with both scholarly and popular writing on the Greek and Roman worlds. Paying close attention to the availability and limitations of historical and archaeological evidence, Beard reminds us of the traditions in which authors are enmeshed and which color their narratives and interpretations. Recommended for anyone interested in how (and whether) we can truly understand the past. - ChrisG Show less

Nonfiction. This collection of book reviews by the eminent Cambridge classicist showcases her superb writing and her clear-eyed engagement with both schol...Show more Nonfiction. This collection of book reviews by the eminent Cambridge classicist showcases her superb writing and her clear-eyed engagement with both scholarly and popular writing on the Greek and Roman worlds. Paying close attention to the availability and limitations of historical and archaeological evidence, Beard reminds us of the traditions in which authors are enmeshed and which color their narratives and interpretations. Recommended for anyone interested in how (and whether) we can truly understand the past. - ChrisG Show less

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One by One

One by One

by Ware, Ruth

Book - 2020

Mystery. A tech company goes on a team building, ski trip in a remote ski village in the mountains. An avalanche occurs leaving them stranded without hea...Show more Mystery. A tech company goes on a team building, ski trip in a remote ski village in the mountains. An avalanche occurs leaving them stranded without heat, electricty, or phones to call for help. Someone missing, someone is murdered, one by one people keep ending up dead. Will they ever get out of this situation? Will they survive? Once again Ruth Ware delivers a story that will keep you reading til the very end to find out how this all unfolds. - Shane J Show less

Mystery. A tech company goes on a team building, ski trip in a remote ski village in the mountains. An avalanche occurs leaving them stranded without hea...Show more Mystery. A tech company goes on a team building, ski trip in a remote ski village in the mountains. An avalanche occurs leaving them stranded without heat, electricty, or phones to call for help. Someone missing, someone is murdered, one by one people keep ending up dead. Will they ever get out of this situation? Will they survive? Once again Ruth Ware delivers a story that will keep you reading til the very end to find out how this all unfolds. - Shane J Show less

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A Certain Hunger

A Certain Hunger

A Novel

by Summers, Chelsea G.

Book - 2020

Fiction. With blazing prose and sly humor, the fictional memoir of food critic (and cannibal) Dorothy Daniels serves up lust for sex, food, clothes, and c...Show more Fiction. With blazing prose and sly humor, the fictional memoir of food critic (and cannibal) Dorothy Daniels serves up lust for sex, food, clothes, and consumer goods, with accompaniments of food history, the death of print, the death of criticism, and kosher butchery. It's a bloody business. And not for the faint of heart -- though just the thing for those with a taste for heart and other offal. - LaurenL Show less

Fiction. With blazing prose and sly humor, the fictional memoir of food critic (and cannibal) Dorothy Daniels serves up lust for sex, food, clothes, and c...Show more Fiction. With blazing prose and sly humor, the fictional memoir of food critic (and cannibal) Dorothy Daniels serves up lust for sex, food, clothes, and consumer goods, with accompaniments of food history, the death of print, the death of criticism, and kosher butchery. It's a bloody business. And not for the faint of heart -- though just the thing for those with a taste for heart and other offal. - LaurenL Show less

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Klara and the Sun

Klara and the Sun

A novel

by Ishiguro, Kazuo

eBook - 2021

Fiction. In this “beautiful descriptive narrative”, discover a delightful account of a complex relationship between an A.I. (artificial intelligence) and ...Show more Fiction. In this “beautiful descriptive narrative”, discover a delightful account of a complex relationship between an A.I. (artificial intelligence) and her human companion. Klara idolizes the sun and seeks to give the power of the sun to her sickly friend. When her mission is complete and life goes on Klara realizes she is not needed anymore by her humans, very similar to seniors. - JacquiP. Show less

Fiction. In this “beautiful descriptive narrative”, discover a delightful account of a complex relationship between an A.I. (artificial intelligence) and ...Show more Fiction. In this “beautiful descriptive narrative”, discover a delightful account of a complex relationship between an A.I. (artificial intelligence) and her human companion. Klara idolizes the sun and seeks to give the power of the sun to her sickly friend. When her mission is complete and life goes on Klara realizes she is not needed anymore by her humans, very similar to seniors. - JacquiP. Show less

Not Currently Available.Holds: 74 on 56 Volumes

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More Than Just A Pretty Face

More Than Just A Pretty Face

by Masood, Syed

Book - 2020

Teen Romance. Danyal Jilani is handsome, popular, funny, and an incredible cook. With all that, he still seems to fall short in his father's eyes. When ...Show more Teen Romance. Danyal Jilani is handsome, popular, funny, and an incredible cook. With all that, he still seems to fall short in his father's eyes. When he is chosen for a prestigious academic contest he's sure that he is destined to fail. As he prepares for the contest he must juggle a crush on his best friend's sister, figure out a young woman who his parents want him to marry, and find out why his father thinks Winston Churchill was a F**. This is a great romance in which you'll root for Danyal and his quest for love, friendship, and self confidence. - DebF Show less

Teen Romance. Danyal Jilani is handsome, popular, funny, and an incredible cook. With all that, he still seems to fall short in his father's eyes. When ...Show more Teen Romance. Danyal Jilani is handsome, popular, funny, and an incredible cook. With all that, he still seems to fall short in his father's eyes. When he is chosen for a prestigious academic contest he's sure that he is destined to fail. As he prepares for the contest he must juggle a crush on his best friend's sister, figure out a young woman who his parents want him to marry, and find out why his father thinks Winston Churchill was a F**. This is a great romance in which you'll root for Danyal and his quest for love, friendship, and self confidence. - DebF Show less

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Living Well

Living Well

God's Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs

by Moseley, Allan

eBook - 2017

Nonfiction. The Book of Proverbs offers some very good advice on living in God's world. The advice is practical and God-honoring. I appreciated the countercultural aspect of this book--it is satisfying to your soul. Just excellent!!! - Linda S. Nonfiction. The Book of Proverbs offers some very good advice on living in God's world. The advice is practical and God-honoring. I appreciated the countercultural aspect of this book--it is satisfying to your soul. Just excellent!!! - Linda S. Show less

Nonfiction. The Book of Proverbs offers some very good advice on living in God's world. The advice is practical and God-honoring. I appreciated the countercultural aspect of this book--it is satisfying to your soul. Just excellent!!! - Linda S. Nonfiction. The Book of Proverbs offers some very good advice on living in God's world. The advice is practical and God-honoring. I appreciated the countercultural aspect of this book--it is satisfying to your soul. Just excellent!!! - Linda S. Show less

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