- Mrs. McPhealy’s American
- Libby Lost and Found
- The Hotel Balzaar
- Gather
- Nose to Nose: A Picture Book
- Dogpedia: A Brief Compendium of Canine Curiosities (Pedia Books #9)
- Mother Aspen: A Story of How Forests Cooperate and Communicate
By the staff at Covered Treasures
“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”—Charles Dickens
Here are some gems that we picked up at the recent book trade show that are a great way to welcome in the Thanksgiving season.
Mrs. McPhealy’s American
By Claire McDougal (Sibylline Press) $20
The entire rural town of Locharbert is abuzz because a famous Hollywood director is moving in. Putting two failed marriages, three sons, and a drinking problem behind him, he embarks on a quest for the uncomplicated life of his ancestors in the home of his distant relative, Mrs. McPhealy. But from the start, the newcomer is eyed with suspicion. The secret life of Locharbert is about to tumble out.
Libby Lost and Found
By Stephanie Booth (Sourcebooks Landmark) $28
Libby Lost and Found is a book for people who don’t know who they are without the books they love. It’s about the stories we tell ourselves and the chapters of our lives we regret. Most importantly, it’s about the endings we write for ourselves. Libby is the author of the mega-best-selling fantasy series but is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s and turns to a young girl to help her finish the book. The conclusion will shock you.
The Hotel Balzaar
By Kate DiCamillo (Candlewick Press) $18
At the Hotel Balzaar, Marta’s mother cleans rooms. Meanwhile, Marta entertains herself, all the while dreaming of the return of her soldier father, who has gone missing. One day, a mysterious countess arrives and Marta begins to wonder: Could the secret to her father’s disappearance lie in the countess’s tales? Book two in a trio of novellas bound by place and mood—with elegant line art by Jâulia Sardáa.
Gather
By Kenneth M. Cadow (Candlewick Press), $18
Ian Gray isn’t supposed to have a dog, but he has adopted a puppy named Gather. An unforeseen tragedy results in Ian and his dog taking off on the run, trying to evade a future that would mean leaving their house and their land. Cadow’s resonant debut brings an emotional and ultimately hopeful story of one teen’s resilience in the face of unthinkable hardships.
Band People: Life and Work in Popular Music (American Music)
By Franz Nicolay (University of Texas Press) $30
This is a story about the other “band people” who are the anonymous but irreplaceable character actors of popular music. Through interviews and incisive cultural critique, writer and musician Franz Nicolay provides a portrait of the musical middle class. Artists talk frankly about their careers and attitudes toward their craft, work environment, and group dynamics. Band People gives voice to those who collaborate to create music and shows what it means to be a laborer in the culture industry.
Nose to Nose: A Picture Book
By Thyra Heder (Harry N. Abrams) $19
Toby is the new dog on the block but finds being new isn’t so easy. At least he finds a nice, smelly ball at the park. There’s just one problem: The ball actually belongs to another pup. Toby tries his best to explain his mistake, but his messages get misunderstood. This picture book by critically acclaimed author Thyra Heder playfully unveils the currents of communication happening all around us and champions the courage it takes to confront a problem “nose to nose.”
Dogpedia: A Brief Compendium of Canine Curiosities (Pedia Books #9)
By Jessica Pierce (Princeton University Press) $17
Dogpedia is your gateway into the astonishing world of dogs. This enticing, pocket-friendly collection helps you celebrate the amazing tapestry of our shared existence. With captivating drawings that bring the entries to life, Dogpedia uncovers the enigma of dogs, revealing hidden treasures behind every wagging tail.
Mother Aspen: A Story of How Forests Cooperate and Communicate
By Jessica Pierce (Princeton University Press) $17
In early spring, the Mother Tree wakens. Through the seasons and years, the Mother Tree shelters and feeds the other trees, the animals that make their home in the grove, and the fungi that make it possible for the trees to talk to each other. This story of symbiosis is richly illustrated by Crystal Smith and shows how the forest inhabitants thrive by working together.
Until next month, happy reading.
The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.
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