by Helen Simonson
Reviewed by GF
I can't remember the last time I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish a book! A wonderfully light read with a set of characters worth being invested in!
by Helen Oyeyemi
Reviewed by Naya
Oyeyemi artfully plays with the short story form in both subtle and radical ways. Her descriptions are engaging, poetic, and often mysterious. The stories are short, but their worlds are expansive, their characters richly c...
by Liane Moriarty
Reviewed by Amy
Sucks you in from the first chapter, making it very hard to put down. Liane Moriarty is a master at creating compelling and complex characters.
by Curtis Sittenfeld
Reviewed by Ellen
This was a light, fun read - a modern telling of Pride & Prejudice. I then read Pride & Prejudice after finishing Eligible and really enjoyed comparing the two versions.
by Nancy Goldstone
Reviewed by Bonnie
You though you had a difficult relationship with your mother? Catherine de Medici controlled everything about her daughter Marguerite's life, until Marguerite became Queen of Navarre.
by Leslie Jamison
Reviewed by LPB
Jamison is talented in her ability to capture emotions, even when in real life, they eclipse before we can make meaning out of them. A must read for anyone going into the medical field.
by Carla Power
Reviewed by VIS
Carla Power, an American, studies the Quran with a madrasa-trained sheikh, Mohammad Akram Nadwi. The sheikh preaches the Quran's message of peace, respect for women, and religious tolerance.
by Pierce Brown
Reviewed by HD
This first book had a really interesting premise. Unfortunately, by the third (and final) volume, it had too much unbelievable fighting (like an action movie script). But I did enjoy books 1 and 2!
by Siobhan Dowd
Reviewed by EA
This book offers a snapshot of life on the border of Northern Ireland and the Republic during the troubles in the 80s. It is a coming of age story with history lessons mixed in. I enjoyed the voice of the m...
by Neel Shah & Skye Chatham
Reviewed by Christine
A breezy, easy to read book told in the form of emails and texts. A novel about relationships in the modern age. Not very deep, yet somehow revealing about men's and women's perceptio...
by Joseph Ellis
Reviewed by PL
A well written book that details the military and political events between May and October 1776, the connection between the Continental Congress and the Continental Army.
by Michael J Tougias & Casey Sherman
Reviewed by JH
Overall, an enjoyable read about an amazing, if harrowing, set of experiences had by many unfortunates and fortunates on the unruly and unpredictable high seas off Cape Cod. Strong ...
by Michael Robotham
Reviewed by JL
Another fine psychological thriller featuring Joe O'Laughlin. Dark & scary with unexpected twists.
by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Reviewed by JD
Revisiting the Anne of Green Gables series for the first time since childhood was a real treat. The Anne books are truly timeless.
by Emma Cline
Reviewed by Leanna
A readable, subtly spooky book, recommended if you're feeling angsty, cynical, and rebellious.
by Ann Martin
This was one of the best books I have ever read. I listened to it, which made the characters really come alive. It was very moving without being sentimental.
by Eric Weiner
Reviewed by VG
What do ancient Greece, Renaissance Florence, turn of the century (the previous one, that is) Vienna, and Silicon Valley have in common? They all produced geniuses (Socrates, Leonardo, Freud, and Steve Jobs) who chang...
bt Daniel Woodrell
Reviewed by DM
A reprint edition of Woodrell's first three novels, these stories are set n the fictional bayou town of St. Bruno. Pulpier than his later, more famous Ozark novels (especially Winter's Bone). Some rough ...
by Nancy Thayer
Reviewed by Sandra
A perfect summer beach read, especially while on Cape Cod. It needs a sequel. I became attached to the characters and want to know what happens to them.
by Joe Nocera
Reviewed by MJ
A great read that exposes the NCAA's practices and how athletes are pushing back against a powerhouse.
by Rabindranath Tagore
Reviewed by DK
Collection of poems on love, religion, nature, and life. This book provides a refreshing world view.
by J.K. Rowling
Reviewed by FS
A great road trip read for adults and kids alike! Kept everyone's attention.
by Julie Halpern
Reviewed by LS
This book hit motherhood head on! Nothing like your first baby at home to turn your life upside down. Lighthearted but hits on some serious issues too.
by Jon Loomis
Reviewed by Rebecca
Murder mystery set on Cape Cod. Former police detective from Baltimore arrives back in Provincetown and has various people turn up dead. He needs to find the connection in order to stay alive.
Translated by Husain Haddawy, based on the text of the fourteenth-century Syrian manuscript
Reviewed by SK
Incredible book of literature. The translator preserves the original tales by providing thorough prologues and maps so the reader can appropriately co...
By Ron Fournier
Reviewed by MB
This true story of a dad's understanding and acceptance of his autistic son is very relatable. All parents can have a fresh perspective from this story about valuing the people in front of us rather than th...
by Michael Cunningham
Reviewed by Nicole
This has been one of my favorite books since I read it a decade and half ago. Though less perfect than some of Cunningham's later novels, it has an appealing youthful rawness. The lyrical language...
by Yaa Gyasi
Reviewed by Claudia
A fascinating and moving epic novel that traces 2 branches of a family through the generations. It was especially interesting to learn what life was like in the parallel time periods in the 2 locations, G...
by Louis L'Amour
Reviewed by Julie
This book is by famous American author Louis L'Amour, who wrote about the settling of the west. This book exemplifies heroes of noble character, fighting for a good life despite incredible savage and be...
by Rob Schmitz
Reviewed by UP
A great look at contemporary urban China through the eyes of an American journalist and the people who live on his street in Shanghai.
by Gerdt von Bassewitz
Reviewed by Annette
The German equivalent of our Wizard of Oz, written in 1912. The story is a journey - to help a beetle find his missing leg, which was on the moon. Sometimes predictable, often poetic, the story ...
by Jennifer Mason-Black
Reviewed by Saadia
An intriguing tale that twists an old story, providing a strong female protagonist, rich characters, and a hauntingly mysterious atmosphere, right from the very first page.
by Carole O'Malley Gaunt
Reviewed by Marie
Vivid account of a family who lost first one parent to cancer, then one to alcoholism, yet managed to keep going.
by Patrick Süskind
Reviewed by NM
A truly unique story, sensually focused on the themes of scent and identity. The book highlights the power and danger of envy, desire, and all-consuming love. A unique read.
by Sophie Kinsella
Reviewed by MEA
Classic, fun chick-lit! Sophie Kinsella again gets me to care deeply about one of her somewhat ditzy, but surprisingly resourceful, heroines.
by Irma S. Rombauer
Reviewed by anonymous
Great for trying new recipes. My favorite is the strawberry shortcake!
by Janet Benton
Reviewed by Gail
This first book from UMass MFA grad is historical, touching, and also heartbreaking while being uplifting.
by Betty Comden
Reviewed by Janice
Here is a memoir by Betty Comden, who along with her long term business partner Adolph Green, wrote the screenplay and lyrics for "Singing in the Rain, as well as numerous movies and plays. Her col...
by W.G. Sebald
Reviewed by Donny
This is a great book and I'm so glad the Jones has it. I was totally absorbed. It's a book to re-read. Very layered reading.
by Ann Lamott
Anne Lamott uses a journal style to discuss her innermost feelings about her son, Sam, and his girlfriend's decision to have their baby Jax at 19 years old. The books FULL of racial slurs about "Hispani...
by Tony Judt & Timothy Snyder
Reviewed by Marcin
A stimulating conversation between two great intellectuals and historians of both Eastern and Western Europe. Topics include Tony's life, history of Jews in Europe, totalitarianism, an...
by Seanan McGuire
If you've ever wondered "What happens after?" when reading a tale of other dimensions or worlds, this book is for you. Part murder mystery, part coming-of-age, a little bit dark humor. I loved i...
by C.A. Higgins
Reviewed by Phelan
Frankly, this book was far too dismal. That's not to say I don't enjoy dismal books, but Supernova makes everything so hopeless and generally terrible that I ultimately lost all motivation to finish it ...
by Catherynne M. Valente
Reviewed by Amy S
Really fun and different read. These are the stories of the "damsels in distress" from superhero stories, told from their perspective. Very funny and also kind of raw.
by Susan Morgan
A fascinating tale of Anna Leonowens, carefully researched to dispel misconceptions from The King and I and falsehoods from Anna herself.
by Elizabeth Kostova
Reviewed by JRR
Set in Bulgaria, this book is two intertwined stories - one "present" and one "past". The past story of Lazarov in the communist era is magnificent. The modern story, much less so....
by Jenna Blum
Reviewed by MA
Very well-written book about the Holocaust and its affect on one mother and daughter. Themes of family secrets, love, and forgiveness. Excellent.
by Ron Chernow
A very detailed, well researched biography of the founder of Standard Oil (Esso). He contrasts the ruthless businessman with the Baptist philathropist, who founded a school for black women and the University...
by Deborah Harkness
Reviewed by Lara
This book is a blend of Harry Potter and Twilight, but for adults. The author thoroughly immerses you into the witch/vampire/daemon world of England, and draws you into the start of this wonderful tri...
by Nathaniel Philbrick
Reviewed by Frank S.
The story that inspired Moby Dick. The real tale is after they sink!
by Tatiana de Rosnay
Reviewed by Valerie
De Rosnay has written Manderley Forever in the emotional and literary spirit of Daphne Du Maurier. This book reads like a page-turning novel, unraveling the mysteries of this very popular writer.
by Jane Austen
I love all of Jane Austen's books, but Emma is a difficult character to like. The movie adaption Clueless captured Emma, who is blithely unaware of everyone around her.
by Susan Branch
Reviewed by CH
A charming diary of a 2 month journey around lovely England - historical sites and walking paths. Wonderful!
by Elena Ferrante
Everyone raves about this series, so I was ready to love this book. I couldn't finish it! I got to page 172 and felt like torture. I found the writing to be stilted and there was no plot. I didn't like th...
by Patricia Wells
Reviewed by MDS
Well organized cookbook with good recipes and great tips.
by Eric Hinderaker
Reviewed by Becky
Hinderaker tells history like a true storyteller (in the manner of David McCullough). A significant investigation into the use of violence by police, applicable to the present day.
by Anu Partanen
Reviewed by Ella
This book outlines how unjust and unequal childcare, education, and healthcare policies are in the US. It offers wonderful and hopeful prescriptions for fixing these problems in America. A must read!
by Nigel Cliff
Reviewed by Anonymous
Van Cliburn was a true American hero, albeit by accident. His talents were undeniable. The book was a well-documented life of the pianist.
by Jancee Dunn
The title is inflammatory, which I did not like. I found myself hiding it from my kids. As for the book, there was thought-provoking information and ideas. It really is a self-awareness and relationship self...
by Dalai Lama XIV and Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Reviewed by Jeannine
An intriguing combination of philosophy and self-help advice. Enjoyed how Abrams tied together the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism's Eastern approach to life with Tutu and Christia...
by Julian Fellowes
For fans of Downton Abbey, this period drama set in the mid-19th century has many twists and turns that make it an enjoyable read. Lovers of English aristocracy will find this a treat!
by Donna Andrews
Reviewed by Mandi
Cozy mystery lovers will enjoy this first book in the series. Great character development that really makes you root for the whole family. A wonderful summer read.
by Brad Watson
Reviewed by JR
Watson's beautiful prose and intriguing characters make this book a binge read-worthy page turner. Readers will be drawn into the unique challenges faced by Miss Jane, a girl with a strong spirit and careful powers of...
by Jesmyn Ward
Reviewed by EZ
Enduring the challenges of onoing poverty and the looming crisis of Hurrican Katrina, 15 year old Esch narrates her family's flaws, incredible humanity, and resiliance. A beautiful story - you can feel the humidity an...
by Jhumpa Lahiri
Reviewed by DR
A relatable book about immigration and assimiliation to the US from India. The hardships Ashima endures as a wife and mother are captured beautifully.
by Vic James
Reviewed by Helena
Interesting premise - 10 years of slavery - that is believable within the story. I got caught up in the characters and cared what happened to them. Looking forward to the next volume.
by Lyanda Lynn Haupt
Such a magical mix of memoir and biography, with plenty of ecology and natural history. I was surpised at how engaging the story was, and it made for a quick, unique read.
by M. L. Rio
Reviewed by SKG
Rio carefully constructs a tale of love, betrayal, desperation, and ultimate sacrifice. Suspenseful 'til the very last page, the author's attention to detail can be appreciated by not only Shakespeare fans bu...
by Cahterine Burns, editor
Reviewed by Lucy P.
This is a collection of presentations on The Moth Radio Hour. Every one is a gem.