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Message Harry was beloved by everyone in the neighborhood who was lucky enough to meet him. A special cat, he brought joy to all. See page 6.2:30 pm at the Store ARLYNN PRESSERYour Book of Days: A Compendium of History, Anecdote, Sciences and CuriositiesArlynn's new book, designed by her friendLynn Schmelzerand illustrated byM.A. Del Rosario, is an encyclopedic collection of brief essays, one for every day of the year. Each day's entry also includes space for the reader's own observations or reactions, to both the day and the essay. SATURDAY, JULY 1210:30 am, Storytime at the StoreDARCY DAY ZOELLSSmithy and MeThis book is a funny celebration of the bond between a child and their dog.Perfect for ages 5 – 9. See page 6. FRIDAY, JULY 18 and SATURDAY, JULY 19Winnetka Sidewalk SalesNote: July 19 is our Annual 20% off sale for all of our Discount Club members. More details to come. THURSDAY, JULY 316 pm, at the StoreEMMA NOYESSoul of ShadowIn this YA romantasy, love, magic, gods, and monsters collide. Perfect for ages 13 – 18. See page 6. SATURDAY, AUGUST 1610:30 am Storytime at the StoreJAY FLECK Tiny T. Rex and the First Day OopsiesIllustrator Jay Fleck will draw for us and present a great story for new pre-school and kindergarten kids. SATURDAY, JUNE 710:30 am, Saturday StorytimeALEX WILLANPiece OutFor kids ages 4 to 8, here’s a secret action-adventure story of a red game piece accidentally left out of the box. Nothing will stop Red from reaching home.See page 6. TUESDAY, JUNE 106 pm at the Store RICH COHENMurder in the Dollhouse: The Jennifer Dulos StoryCohen’s new true crime book is an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Jennifer Dulos and the aftershocks that rattled a wealthy Connecticut suburb.A story of status, wealth, love, and hate,itpeers beneath the veneer of propriety that surrounded the Duloses to uncover the origins and motivations of a crime that became a national obsession. THURSDAY, JUNE 126:30 pm at the StoreKAREN DUKESSWelcome to Murder WeekAn American woman from Buffalo travels to the English countryside when she discovers tickets her late mother had purchased for a murder mystery simulation in a small British town that has come together to stage a fake murder mystery to attract tourism to their quaint hamlet.Karen will be in conversation with Glencoe writerSally Schwartz. TUESDAY, JUNE 176:30 pm at the StoreMATTHEW GAVIN FRANKSubmersed: Wonder, Obsession, and Murder in the World of Amateur SubmarinesFrank’s blend of literary prose, science writing, and true crime is a foray into the world of deep-sea divers, the obsession and madness that oceans inspire in us, and the story of submarine inventor Peter Madsen's murder of journalist Kim Wall. Frank will be in conversation with authorKathleen Rooney.June marks the real beginning of summer—school is out, the days are long, and the warm weather brings us all outside. And, of course, we celebrate dads on Father’s Day, June 15. We have lots of great titles for every father or father-figure. We suggest some titles in these pages, but also invite you to come into the store for recommendations for any interest. And June is a month for graduations—whether your new grad is heading off to college or out into the working world, in addition to the much-appreciated advice we as parents provide, a book is the perfect gift! Again, check out some of our suggestions or come in and we’d be happy to help. And we would not have graduates were it not for teachers, so consider John King’s Teacher by Teacher: The People Who Change Our Lives or Sarah Ruhl’s Lessons from My Teachers: From Preschool to the Present, a meditation on the power of educators.We have a busy calendar of events this month starting on June 10. At 6 pm, our friend Rich Cohen will be in the store to talk about his new book Murder in the Dollhouse: The Jennifer Dulos Story. More than a true crime expose, Cohen’s book explores status, wealth, and love in the tony enclave of New Canaan. We’re also excited to welcome back Karen Dukess for her new book, Welcome to Murder Week (out June 10). We loved The Last Book Party, and her follow-up is just as wonderful—a woman who has recently lost her mother attends a murder mystery simulation in a small British town. Funny and heartfelt! And who’s not fascinated by amateur submers-ible enthusiasts?! Join us at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, June 17 as we welcome Matthew Gavin Frank, who will talk about his book Submersed: Wonder, Obsession, and Murder in the World of Amateur Submarines. Mr. Frank will be interviewed by Kathleen Rooney. On Thursday, June 19 at 6:30 pm, Lainey Katz Becker will be here (with wine and snacks!) to talk about her new book, In the Family Way (out June 3), which follows a group of women in the 1960s as they navigate myriad personal challenges. Our great friend Arlynn Presser will be in the store on Saturday, June 28 at 2:30 pm to talk about Your Book of Days: A Compendium of History, Anecdote, Sciences and Curiosities. And for all you Deadheads out there, join us on Wednes-day, June 25 at 6 pm to meet Brian Anderson. He’ll be discussing his new book, Loud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound. Summer brings lots of great books to our shelves to read poolside or lakeside. Bestselling author Taylor Jenkins Reid sets her latest novel Atmo-sphere (out June 3) in the space program in the 1980s and one woman’s fight to become an astronaut. And as I have no plans to travel this summer, I’m very excited to read Laura Lippman’s latest, Murder Takes a Vacation (out June 17), which will take me on a river cruise through France as her charac-ter works to solve a mystery. And I anticipate lots of dish in The History Gossip: A Slice of Ye Olde Scandal for Every Day of the Year—fun for history enthusiasts or really anyone! And with the slower pace of summer, I plan on diving into Fox, Joyce Carol Oates 672-page tome (out June 17), a mystery set at an elite boarding school. Finally, as the school year ends, I want to thank our hard-working event staff for bringing so many wonderful authors to schools and libraries all around Chicago. This is no small task—scheduling, ordering books, escort-ing authors to multiple schools, assisting with signing and personalizing—it all takes time and patience, but we feel incredibly lucky to be able to offer this enriching experience to so many kids, including children in under-served schools. For those children, The Book Stall provides a signed book to every child. As Roald Dahl once said, “If you are going to get anywhere in life, you have to read lots of books.”THE FRONT LINESpecial Summer IssueJune/July/August 2025Vol. XXXVII, No. 5Nancy Dreher, EditorCalendar continues on page 4Note: Many of our author events at The Book Stall start at 6 pm in the summertime. Most events require registration. Go to “Events” on our website to sign up. TUESDAY, JUNE 177 pm, Glencoe Public Library, 320 Park Ave. MONIQUE F. PARSONSGreen Gold:The Avocado's Remarkable Journey from Humble Superfood to Toast of a NationWe partner with Glencoe Public Library as they present Glencoe writer Monique F. Parsons, the author (with Sarah Allaback) of Green Gold, documenting more than a century of cross-cultural cooperation, science, and savvy marketing. This event is free, but registration is requested. THURSDAY, JUNE 196 pm at the StoreLANEY KATZ BECKERIn the Family WayA group of suburban housewives in the mid-1960s help one another navigate their personal challenges, marriages, and their pregnan-cies—both wanted and unwanted.It captures the experiences of women on the cusp of liberation as they struggle with their own complex feelings about being wives, mothers, and women with their own dreams and ambitions. FRIDAY, JUNE 20 4:30 pm, The Winnetka Chapel, Valslist Chapel StageThe Just Listen Sessions: Authors & ArtistsWe partner with Valslist Music to present a brand-new literary/music feature debuting at this year’s Winnetka Music Festival. This special event will kick off the festival weekend with an intimate, live conversation between celebrated music authors and festival founder Val Haller. The events are free to festival ticket holders. For more details, see winnetkamusicfestival.com. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 256 pm at the StoreBRIAN ANDERSONLoud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of SoundThis is the first book to tell the full story of the Grateful Dead’s “Wall of Sound,” an unprecedented and unparalleled speaker system that was as tall as a school bus is long and more than 100 feet wide. The band’s quest for roaring yet crystal clear sound began after their formation in 1965, colliding with the ‘60s progres-sive social climate. (Out June 17). THURSDAY, JUNE 266 pm at the StoreJAMES POMERANTZ and TOM HRUBY, The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak NovelThis first in a planned three-book series is a fictional account based on Hruby's real-life story.The main character, Deklan, fought in the combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan as a Navy SEAL breacher—also known as an explosive expert—and on the stadium grass of the Big Ten football fields as a linebacker, and now in Chicago as a special agent for the FBI's Violent Crimes Against Children squad. SATURDAY, JUNE 2810:30 am, Storytime at the StorePAUL AGASE, Harry the Cat
Harry was beloved by everyone in the neighborhood who was lucky enough to meet him. A special cat, he brought joy to all. See page 6.2:30 pm at the Store ARLYNN PRESSERYour Book of Days: A Compendium of History, Anecdote, Sciences and CuriositiesArlynn's new book, designed by her friendLynn Schmelzerand illustrated byM.A. Del Rosario, is an encyclopedic collection of brief essays, one for every day of the year. Each day's entry also includes space for the reader's own observations or reactions, to both the day and the essay. SATURDAY, JULY 1210:30 am, Storytime at the StoreDARCY DAY ZOELLSSmithy and MeThis book is a funny celebration of the bond between a child and their dog.Perfect for ages 5 – 9. See page 6. FRIDAY, JULY 18 and SATURDAY, JULY 19Winnetka Sidewalk SalesNote: July 19 is our Annual 20% off sale for all of our Discount Club members. More details to come. THURSDAY, JULY 316 pm, at the StoreEMMA NOYESSoul of ShadowIn this YA romantasy, love, magic, gods, and monsters collide. Perfect for ages 13 – 18. See page 6. SATURDAY, AUGUST 1610:30 am Storytime at the StoreJAY FLECK Tiny T. Rex and the First Day OopsiesIllustrator Jay Fleck will draw for us and present a great story for new pre-school and kindergarten kids. SATURDAY, JUNE 710:30 am, Saturday StorytimeALEX WILLANPiece OutFor kids ages 4 to 8, here’s a secret action-adventure story of a red game piece accidentally left out of the box. Nothing will stop Red from reaching home.See page 6. TUESDAY, JUNE 106 pm at the Store RICH COHENMurder in the Dollhouse: The Jennifer Dulos StoryCohen’s new true crime book is an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Jennifer Dulos and the aftershocks that rattled a wealthy Connecticut suburb.A story of status, wealth, love, and hate,itpeers beneath the veneer of propriety that surrounded the Duloses to uncover the origins and motivations of a crime that became a national obsession. THURSDAY, JUNE 126:30 pm at the StoreKAREN DUKESSWelcome to Murder WeekAn American woman from Buffalo travels to the English countryside when she discovers tickets her late mother had purchased for a murder mystery simulation in a small British town that has come together to stage a fake murder mystery to attract tourism to their quaint hamlet.Karen will be in conversation with Glencoe writerSally Schwartz. TUESDAY, JUNE 176:30 pm at the StoreMATTHEW GAVIN FRANKSubmersed: Wonder, Obsession, and Murder in the World of Amateur SubmarinesFrank’s blend of literary prose, science writing, and true crime is a foray into the world of deep-sea divers, the obsession and madness that oceans inspire in us, and the story of submarine inventor Peter Madsen's murder of journalist Kim Wall. Frank will be in conversation with authorKathleen Rooney.inventor. As a writer he mastered multiple literary forms, includ-ing novels, short stories, essays, and historical romances. Just his multi-faceted careers and the amount of his literary output is a long story. For Chernow, Mark Twain’s biography is all about his evolution…as a writer, a thinker, and doer. His beliefs and values became more refined and focused though rarely completely abandoned. We think of him as a humorist. Many of you will recall his response to a reporter who asked about reports of his death: “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” But some sayings are more caustic, revealing an underlying anger that showed up more and more in his later years: “Never miss an opportunity to shut up” or “No amount of evidence will ever persuade an idiot.” Twain had little patience for those he considered shallow, but was kind and generous to his friends. Twain was born in 1835 and died at the age of 74 in 1910. He lived through a remarkable time in American history, and he both formed and was informed by it. Chernow’s majestic biography needs no apologies for its length. It barely contains Twain as it is. ELIZABETH HUBBARDShopgirls by Jessica Anya Blau ($30) brought me right back to my formative years! Blau's previous novel, Mary Jane was sort of an ode to the ‘70s, but this one is firmly planted in the 1980s. Big shoulder pads, landlines, and in-person shopping! Set in San Francisco, our 19-year-old "shop girl" Zippy is learning to navigate life outside of her mother's apartment. She has gotten her dream job selling dresses at I. Magnin, a high-end department store. She found an apartment through a classified ad and is starting to discover (or create?) the young adult she is becoming. This isn't a thriller or an action-packed drama, instead it is the story of a girl at a specific time in her life, figuring stuff out. There is a long absent father, the mentoring (in clothes, boys, kissing, and such), roommate, and the wacky cast of characters who also spend their days catering to the tony clients looking for makeup that will make them beautiful or dresses that will transform them. I so enjoyed spending time with Zippy and all the other "shop girls!"I Leave it Up to You by Jinwoo Chong ($28) was a most delightful read! A young man wakes up from a two-year coma...and what a two years it has been. Jack Jr. last remembers October of 2019 and has missed so much while he lay hooked up to machines in a NJ hospital. Yes, this is a "post-pan-demic" story, but it's about so much more. Jack Jr. is Korean-American and gay and, 10 years before the accident that put him into the coma, became estranged from his entire family. However, that family has not given up on him. In this novel, we see the possibility of second chances and forgiveness. Jack Jr.'s family owns a Japanese-Korean sushi place, and the book is full of mouth-watering descriptions of food and shows us all the hard work that goes into making a restaurant work. I sincerely could not get enough of Chong's story; it was laugh-out-loud funny and touchingly charming. I wish I could spend more time with this quirky and hilarious family. And did I mention the budding romance with a most unlikely suitor?KATHY RILEYHeartwood by Amity Gaige ($28.99) is a book of many themes. These include the stories of three indepen-dent women, their relationships with their mothers and being in nature. Valerie Gillis is an inexperi-enced hiker, who, after the struggles of being a nurse during Covid, decides to hike the Appalachian Trail. Her thoughts, after going missing, are recorded in a journal that she writes to her mother. Lieutenant Beverly Miller, from the Maine Warden Service, is assigned to find Valerie. As the case is covered more widely by the press, Lena Kucharski, a tech savvy, retired scientist, THE INSIDE LINELEAH GORDONLoud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound and the Quest for Audio Perfection by Brian Anderson ($32.50). In what is a love letter to both Deadheads and audiophiles alike,Loud and Clearbrilliantly catalogues the trajectory of the Grateful Dead and the famous Wall of Sound.Author Brian Anderson navigates the early makings of Garcia’s music career beginning in 1962 and then proceeds to layer in each bandmate and the supporting team members, as the Grateful Dead finds its structure and namesake. With every failure and success of their early soundsystem adven-tures came an obsessive pursuit for the perfect sound, no matter what and where the venue was, providing the underlying histori-cal context for the book.Anderson treats us to stories he’s collect-ed from an array of sources, including surviving crew members, techs, and even his own parents, as he unwinds the final iteration of the Wall of Sound, going back to its humble beginnings and original parts.Through the building of the Wall, we are also taken on tour with the band, offering us a glimpse back at the setlists of what became some of the most memorable shows in the Dead’s archives.The inner workings of the Dead, the crew’s constant upgrading of the Wall, and the growth of the Head community are well documented by Anderson, which allows his writing of the 1974 run to be the perfect peak toLoud and Clearbefore the crew ultimately “hit ‘em with the sh*t and split” for the last time. As both a Dead and live music fan I absolutely loved this book and recommend cuing up your favorite show and settling in with it this summer.Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle ($28.99). Food memories are so powerful that they can reconnect us with people, places, and moments in time via smell, recipe notes, or—in the case of In Daria Lavelle’s new novel—taste.InAftertaste, she blends multiple genres including ghost thriller, coming of age, and a love story with a food writer’s sense of restau-rant-industry knowledge.While that may sound like a heavy lift for both writer and reader, she weaves the storyline in a way that pulls you in immediately and secures you for the journey.Following the loss of his father at a young age, Kostya begins experiencing food aftertastes at unplanned moments that seem to be triggered by strangers he comes across.Years later during a chance encounter with a customer while working at a bar, he channels the aftertaste into a cocktail, and in doing so connects the customer with the spirit of someone they lost.Kostya seizes this experience and pushes it further, as he learns to cook and make more connections between diners and the people they’ve lost. Although warned by his girlfriend Maura to stop, he can’t bring himself to, and after opening an experiential restaurant, the results overwhelm everyone involved and threaten to undo all that he has worked for.Lavelle’s writing gives readers a sensory experience all their own, making Aftertastea delectable addition to your summer reading stack.It’s Only Drowning: A True Story of Learning to Surf and the Search for Common Ground by David Litt ($29.99, out June 24). When one is subject to an existential crisis, the textbook response is to change careers, make a large-scale romantic gesture (or untether oneself), buy a ridiculous sports car, or in author David Litt’s case, take a surfing lesson on the coast of New Jersey at age 35.Having lived a risk-adverse lifestyle (or risk-adjacent, considering his career in politics) the choice to take up surfing was not one that would have been on his bucket list without the post-pandemic haze of finding a new source of fulfillment.InIt’s Only Drowning, Litt leans into the surf culture, albeit with a cautiously optimistic (and over-researched at times) mindset, while willing himself physically to meet the demands of his newly chosen pursuit.After surviving starter lessons and gaining just enough confidence, Litt reaches out to his brother-in-law Matt to surf with him despite their vastly different approaches to, well everything.This unlikely pairing serves as the backbone of the book, as the reader comes to learn that their differences remain differences, no matter how many hours are spent together amongst travel and waves ridden.This is candidly demonstrated throughout Litt’s sharing of their exchanges, sometimes leaving him more frustrated than not, from gentler topics like food and beverage choices to heavier topics like vaccination.While Litt’s goal to surf Hawaii’s North Shore facilitates the trajectory of the book, it’s his ability to turn the lens on himself throughout the 18 months leading up to the trip that gives his finale set at Lani’s closure for everyone invested in his journey.JON GRANDThe Rebel Empresses: Elizabeth of Austria and Eugenie of France, Power and Glamour in the Struggle for Europe by Nancy Goldstone ($35). Someone asked me the other day why so little history focuses on women. That is changing, and The Rebel Empresses shows both the contributions of these two powerful women and the conflicts they had with roles they had assumed. Their marriages to Europe’s powerful rulers (Elizabeth to Emperor Franz Joseph; Eugenie to Napoleon III) were not happy. Elizabeth, curious and progressive, found Franz Joseph dull and humorless and life at court stifling. Eugenie, more traditional and Catholic, found intimacy with her philandering husband depressing. Despite the troubles in their personal lives, both understood their power and used it: Elizabeth was instrumental in pushing political autonomy for Hungary (the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1837), while Eugenie ruled France as Regent on three occasions. Elizabeth would die at the hands of an assassin. She was 60 years old. Eugenie would live to be 94, and both women were beautiful, fearless and independent. The contributions of both women and the roles they played don’t change the overall historic narrative that we have. But their strengths and weaknesses add important nuance and context to the events of their time.Lower Than the Angels: A History of Sex and Christianity by Diarmaid MacCulloch ($40). Somone once told me that any book with “sex” in the title will sell well. This book should sell well, based on its merits. Christianity has long had an ambivalent, when not hostile, attitude toward sex and gender. The complex and often contradictory views on sex make clear that there is no single theology on the topic. As social values have changed, so has Christianity. Where some eras saw persecution, others have shown acceptance. Ideologues are, of course, not bothered by the lack of a definitive position on the topic, prefer-ring to “cherry pick” the sources for anything that supports their position. Unfortunately, it is tempting to impose these rigid beliefs on the population at large. MacCulloch’s book comes at an important time in our history, as we confront complicated issues that deeply impact peoples’ most personal decisions. Mark Twain by Ron Chernow ($45). Be warned, Ron Chernow is not noted for brevity. In this latest work, through 1,000 pages, Chernow explores the life of Samuel Clemens, or as he is better known, Mark Twain. Don’t let that deter you. Mark Twain needs a big book to capture a life that has loomed so large for so many years. Twain was many things during his lifetime: journalist, river pilot, writer, public speaker, printer, publisher, polemicist, and TUESDAY, JUNE 177 pm, Glencoe Public Library, 320 Park Ave. MONIQUE F. PARSONSGreen Gold:The Avocado's Remarkable Journey from Humble Superfood to Toast of a NationWe partner with Glencoe Public Library as they present Glencoe writer Monique F. Parsons, the author (with Sarah Allaback) of Green Gold, documenting more than a century of cross-cultural cooperation, science, and savvy marketing. This event is free, but registration is requested. THURSDAY, JUNE 196 pm at the StoreLANEY KATZ BECKERIn the Family WayA group of suburban housewives in the mid-1960s help one another navigate their personal challenges, marriages, and their pregnan-cies—both wanted and unwanted.It captures the experiences of women on the cusp of liberation as they struggle with their own complex feelings about being wives, mothers, and women with their own dreams and ambitions. FRIDAY, JUNE 20 4:30 pm, The Winnetka Chapel, Valslist Chapel StageThe Just Listen Sessions: Authors & ArtistsWe partner with Valslist Music to present a brand-new literary/music feature debuting at this year’s Winnetka Music Festival. This special event will kick off the festival weekend with an intimate, live conversation between celebrated music authors and festival founder Val Haller. The events are free to festival ticket holders. For more details, see winnetkamusicfestival.com. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 256 pm at the StoreBRIAN ANDERSONLoud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of SoundThis is the first book to tell the full story of the Grateful Dead’s “Wall of Sound,” an unprecedented and unparalleled speaker system that was as tall as a school bus is long and more than 100 feet wide. The band’s quest for roaring yet crystal clear sound began after their formation in 1965, colliding with the ‘60s progres-sive social climate. (Out June 17). THURSDAY, JUNE 266 pm at the StoreJAMES POMERANTZ and TOM HRUBY, The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak NovelThis first in a planned three-book series is a fictional account based on Hruby's real-life story.The main character, Deklan, fought in the combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan as a Navy SEAL breacher—also known as an explosive expert—and on the stadium grass of the Big Ten football fields as a linebacker, and now in Chicago as a special agent for the FBI's Violent Crimes Against Children squad. SATURDAY, JUNE 2810:30 am, Storytime at the StorePAUL AGASE, Harry the Catwho is estranged from her daughter, Christine, becomes interested in the search. As Bev works out strategies, assembles volunteers, and extends the area covered, she ignores the calls from her sisters about her mother’s health. Lena is a bird watcher and forager, whose online presence introduces her to a young man anxious to remove himself from the grid of society. There is a strong sense of place and atmospheric feeling in this novel. Each woman's chapters capture their character. As Valerie writes, time seems to slow, while Bev’s rescue teams are under an increasing time crunch. There is a poetic quality to the writing in Valerie's journal. Bev’s fierce determination to succeed is palpable, and Lena’s increasing involvement offsets her loneliness. The heartwood is the dark inner core of a tree. In Gaige’s engaging thriller, she reveals the vulnerabilities and the resilience of three women through their losses and their search for meaning.CHARLOTTE ROBERTSONThe Place of Tides by James Rebanks ($28.99, out June 24). Imagine being a middle-aged farmer and shepherd as well as an accomplished author (The Shepherd’s Life 2015 and Pastoral Song 2021) whose response to midlife ennui is to gallivant off to a remote Norwegian island and spend a season tending to eider duck nests with two elderly women. James Rebanks did that very thing, and this book is his recounting of time spent with Anna and Ingrid and the ducks. Located off the west coast of Norway and just south of the Arctic Circle, the Vega Archipelago has been fished, farmed, and duck-tended for thousands of years. The “duck women,” of whom Anna is one of the last, spend the late spring and early summer in these tiny, rocky islands, building and rehabbing little shelters for the eider ducks to build their nests in. Once the eggs have hatched and the ducklings have fledged, the duck women gather the eiderdown left in the nests, clean it, and sell it. Eiderdown has been a valuable commodi-ty for a long time and many local families became quite wealthy on eiderdown earnings. It is a harsh life of physical work on the rocky, exposed, coast, and it was just what the author was looking for, though his beautiful descriptions of the seascape, islands and weather belie the difficulty of daily existence. Anna’s dedication to her work and her heritage shine through this charming book as does the author’s appreciation for the place and its history.MIKE WYSOCKShortlisted for the 2025 International Booker Prize, Vincenzo Latronico’s novella, Perfection ($15.95 in paperback), examines authenticity at the intersection of digital and physical life. Ana and Tom, stand-ins for a generation of social-media obsessed aesthetes, are expat creatives working remotely in Berlin, two of an entire generation of remote workers not eager to allow their careers to represent the defining characteristic of their lives. Instead, Ana and Tom, and their peers, focus more on maintaining their living spaces to accurately reflect the same sun-dappled, magazine-perfect photos posted to Instagram accounts—images devoid of the stuff of life: charger cords, dirty dishes, unmade beds, piles of papers, and post-it notes. Careers are adornments to a life. “Work” is often represented in posts of laptops on café tables next to perfect flat whites, snaps posted from the seen-and-be-seen streets of trendy neighborhoods—no matter if work isn’t even present. What happens to the soul when validation of one’s life exists more in the comments field and like notifications than anywhere else? I would say that Latronico’s judgment is harsh, but it isn’t. His distant and generic narration takes on the tone of sociologist more than anything, and I was left with a lasting sense of pity and anxiety—not only for Ana and Tom, but also for myself. This wonderful novella, like all truly great works of fiction, holds up a mirror to 21st century life; the reflection is distorted, and I have a sinking dread that it isn’t because there is anything wrong with the mirror. Nothing is ever as perfect as a picture, is it?
Harry was beloved by everyone in the neighborhood who was lucky enough to meet him. A special cat, he brought joy to all. See page 6.2:30 pm at the Store ARLYNN PRESSERYour Book of Days: A Compendium of History, Anecdote, Sciences and CuriositiesArlynn's new book, designed by her friendLynn Schmelzerand illustrated byM.A. Del Rosario, is an encyclopedic collection of brief essays, one for every day of the year. Each day's entry also includes space for the reader's own observations or reactions, to both the day and the essay. SATURDAY, JULY 1210:30 am, Storytime at the StoreDARCY DAY ZOELLSSmithy and MeThis book is a funny celebration of the bond between a child and their dog.Perfect for ages 5 – 9. See page 6. FRIDAY, JULY 18 and SATURDAY, JULY 19Winnetka Sidewalk SalesNote: July 19 is our Annual 20% off sale for all of our Discount Club members. More details to come. THURSDAY, JULY 316 pm, at the StoreEMMA NOYESSoul of ShadowIn this YA romantasy, love, magic, gods, and monsters collide. Perfect for ages 13 – 18. See page 6. SATURDAY, AUGUST 1610:30 am Storytime at the StoreJAY FLECK Tiny T. Rex and the First Day OopsiesIllustrator Jay Fleck will draw for us and present a great story for new pre-school and kindergarten kids. SATURDAY, JUNE 710:30 am, Saturday StorytimeALEX WILLANPiece OutFor kids ages 4 to 8, here’s a secret action-adventure story of a red game piece accidentally left out of the box. Nothing will stop Red from reaching home.See page 6. TUESDAY, JUNE 106 pm at the Store RICH COHENMurder in the Dollhouse: The Jennifer Dulos StoryCohen’s new true crime book is an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Jennifer Dulos and the aftershocks that rattled a wealthy Connecticut suburb.A story of status, wealth, love, and hate,itpeers beneath the veneer of propriety that surrounded the Duloses to uncover the origins and motivations of a crime that became a national obsession. THURSDAY, JUNE 126:30 pm at the StoreKAREN DUKESSWelcome to Murder WeekAn American woman from Buffalo travels to the English countryside when she discovers tickets her late mother had purchased for a murder mystery simulation in a small British town that has come together to stage a fake murder mystery to attract tourism to their quaint hamlet.Karen will be in conversation with Glencoe writerSally Schwartz. TUESDAY, JUNE 176:30 pm at the StoreMATTHEW GAVIN FRANKSubmersed: Wonder, Obsession, and Murder in the World of Amateur SubmarinesFrank’s blend of literary prose, science writing, and true crime is a foray into the world of deep-sea divers, the obsession and madness that oceans inspire in us, and the story of submarine inventor Peter Madsen's murder of journalist Kim Wall. Frank will be in conversation with authorKathleen Rooney.inventor. As a writer he mastered multiple literary forms, includ-ing novels, short stories, essays, and historical romances. Just his multi-faceted careers and the amount of his literary output is a long story. For Chernow, Mark Twain’s biography is all about his evolution…as a writer, a thinker, and doer. His beliefs and values became more refined and focused though rarely completely abandoned. We think of him as a humorist. Many of you will recall his response to a reporter who asked about reports of his death: “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” But some sayings are more caustic, revealing an underlying anger that showed up more and more in his later years: “Never miss an opportunity to shut up” or “No amount of evidence will ever persuade an idiot.” Twain had little patience for those he considered shallow, but was kind and generous to his friends. Twain was born in 1835 and died at the age of 74 in 1910. He lived through a remarkable time in American history, and he both formed and was informed by it. Chernow’s majestic biography needs no apologies for its length. It barely contains Twain as it is. ELIZABETH HUBBARDShopgirls by Jessica Anya Blau ($30) brought me right back to my formative years! Blau's previous novel, Mary Jane was sort of an ode to the ‘70s, but this one is firmly planted in the 1980s. Big shoulder pads, landlines, and in-person shopping! Set in San Francisco, our 19-year-old "shop girl" Zippy is learning to navigate life outside of her mother's apartment. She has gotten her dream job selling dresses at I. Magnin, a high-end department store. She found an apartment through a classified ad and is starting to discover (or create?) the young adult she is becoming. This isn't a thriller or an action-packed drama, instead it is the story of a girl at a specific time in her life, figuring stuff out. There is a long absent father, the mentoring (in clothes, boys, kissing, and such), roommate, and the wacky cast of characters who also spend their days catering to the tony clients looking for makeup that will make them beautiful or dresses that will transform them. I so enjoyed spending time with Zippy and all the other "shop girls!"I Leave it Up to You by Jinwoo Chong ($28) was a most delightful read! A young man wakes up from a two-year coma...and what a two years it has been. Jack Jr. last remembers October of 2019 and has missed so much while he lay hooked up to machines in a NJ hospital. Yes, this is a "post-pan-demic" story, but it's about so much more. Jack Jr. is Korean-American and gay and, 10 years before the accident that put him into the coma, became estranged from his entire family. However, that family has not given up on him. In this novel, we see the possibility of second chances and forgiveness. Jack Jr.'s family owns a Japanese-Korean sushi place, and the book is full of mouth-watering descriptions of food and shows us all the hard work that goes into making a restaurant work. I sincerely could not get enough of Chong's story; it was laugh-out-loud funny and touchingly charming. I wish I could spend more time with this quirky and hilarious family. And did I mention the budding romance with a most unlikely suitor?KATHY RILEYHeartwood by Amity Gaige ($28.99) is a book of many themes. These include the stories of three indepen-dent women, their relationships with their mothers and being in nature. Valerie Gillis is an inexperi-enced hiker, who, after the struggles of being a nurse during Covid, decides to hike the Appalachian Trail. Her thoughts, after going missing, are recorded in a journal that she writes to her mother. Lieutenant Beverly Miller, from the Maine Warden Service, is assigned to find Valerie. As the case is covered more widely by the press, Lena Kucharski, a tech savvy, retired scientist, LEAH GORDONLoud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound and the Quest for Audio Perfection by Brian Anderson ($32.50). In what is a love letter to both Deadheads and audiophiles alike,Loud and Clearbrilliantly catalogues the trajectory of the Grateful Dead and the famous Wall of Sound.Author Brian Anderson navigates the early makings of Garcia’s music career beginning in 1962 and then proceeds to layer in each bandmate and the supporting team members, as the Grateful Dead finds its structure and namesake. With every failure and success of their early soundsystem adven-tures came an obsessive pursuit for the perfect sound, no matter what and where the venue was, providing the underlying histori-cal context for the book.Anderson treats us to stories he’s collect-ed from an array of sources, including surviving crew members, techs, and even his own parents, as he unwinds the final iteration of the Wall of Sound, going back to its humble beginnings and original parts.Through the building of the Wall, we are also taken on tour with the band, offering us a glimpse back at the setlists of what became some of the most memorable shows in the Dead’s archives.The inner workings of the Dead, the crew’s constant upgrading of the Wall, and the growth of the Head community are well documented by Anderson, which allows his writing of the 1974 run to be the perfect peak toLoud and Clearbefore the crew ultimately “hit ‘em with the sh*t and split” for the last time. As both a Dead and live music fan I absolutely loved this book and recommend cuing up your favorite show and settling in with it this summer.Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle ($28.99). Food memories are so powerful that they can reconnect us with people, places, and moments in time via smell, recipe notes, or—in the case of In Daria Lavelle’s new novel—taste.InAftertaste, she blends multiple genres including ghost thriller, coming of age, and a love story with a food writer’s sense of restau-rant-industry knowledge.While that may sound like a heavy lift for both writer and reader, she weaves the storyline in a way that pulls you in immediately and secures you for the journey.Following the loss of his father at a young age, Kostya begins experiencing food aftertastes at unplanned moments that seem to be triggered by strangers he comes across.Years later during a chance encounter with a customer while working at a bar, he channels the aftertaste into a cocktail, and in doing so connects the customer with the spirit of someone they lost.Kostya seizes this experience and pushes it further, as he learns to cook and make more connections between diners and the people they’ve lost. Although warned by his girlfriend Maura to stop, he can’t bring himself to, and after opening an experiential restaurant, the results overwhelm everyone involved and threaten to undo all that he has worked for.Lavelle’s writing gives readers a sensory experience all their own, making Aftertastea delectable addition to your summer reading stack.It’s Only Drowning: A True Story of Learning to Surf and the Search for Common Ground by David Litt ($29.99, out June 24). When one is subject to an existential crisis, the textbook response is to change careers, make a large-scale romantic gesture (or untether oneself), buy a ridiculous sports car, or in author David Litt’s case, take a surfing lesson on the coast of New Jersey at age 35.Having lived a risk-adverse lifestyle (or risk-adjacent, considering his career in politics) the choice to take up surfing was not one that would have been on his bucket list without the post-pandemic haze of finding a new source of fulfillment.InIt’s Only Drowning, Litt leans into the surf culture, albeit with a cautiously optimistic (and over-researched at times) mindset, while willing himself physically to meet the demands of his newly chosen pursuit.After surviving starter lessons and gaining just enough confidence, Litt reaches out to his brother-in-law Matt to surf with him despite their vastly different approaches to, well everything.This unlikely pairing serves as the backbone of the book, as the reader comes to learn that their differences remain differences, no matter how many hours are spent together amongst travel and waves ridden.This is candidly demonstrated throughout Litt’s sharing of their exchanges, sometimes leaving him more frustrated than not, from gentler topics like food and beverage choices to heavier topics like vaccination.While Litt’s goal to surf Hawaii’s North Shore facilitates the trajectory of the book, it’s his ability to turn the lens on himself throughout the 18 months leading up to the trip that gives his finale set at Lani’s closure for everyone invested in his journey.JON GRANDThe Rebel Empresses: Elizabeth of Austria and Eugenie of France, Power and Glamour in the Struggle for Europe by Nancy Goldstone ($35). Someone asked me the other day why so little history focuses on women. That is changing, and The Rebel Empresses shows both the contributions of these two powerful women and the conflicts they had with roles they had assumed. Their marriages to Europe’s powerful rulers (Elizabeth to Emperor Franz Joseph; Eugenie to Napoleon III) were not happy. Elizabeth, curious and progressive, found Franz Joseph dull and humorless and life at court stifling. Eugenie, more traditional and Catholic, found intimacy with her philandering husband depressing. Despite the troubles in their personal lives, both understood their power and used it: Elizabeth was instrumental in pushing political autonomy for Hungary (the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1837), while Eugenie ruled France as Regent on three occasions. Elizabeth would die at the hands of an assassin. She was 60 years old. Eugenie would live to be 94, and both women were beautiful, fearless and independent. The contributions of both women and the roles they played don’t change the overall historic narrative that we have. But their strengths and weaknesses add important nuance and context to the events of their time.Lower Than the Angels: A History of Sex and Christianity by Diarmaid MacCulloch ($40). Somone once told me that any book with “sex” in the title will sell well. This book should sell well, based on its merits. Christianity has long had an ambivalent, when not hostile, attitude toward sex and gender. The complex and often contradictory views on sex make clear that there is no single theology on the topic. As social values have changed, so has Christianity. Where some eras saw persecution, others have shown acceptance. Ideologues are, of course, not bothered by the lack of a definitive position on the topic, prefer-ring to “cherry pick” the sources for anything that supports their position. Unfortunately, it is tempting to impose these rigid beliefs on the population at large. MacCulloch’s book comes at an important time in our history, as we confront complicated issues that deeply impact peoples’ most personal decisions. Mark Twain by Ron Chernow ($45). Be warned, Ron Chernow is not noted for brevity. In this latest work, through 1,000 pages, Chernow explores the life of Samuel Clemens, or as he is better known, Mark Twain. Don’t let that deter you. Mark Twain needs a big book to capture a life that has loomed so large for so many years. Twain was many things during his lifetime: journalist, river pilot, writer, public speaker, printer, publisher, polemicist, and TUESDAY, JUNE 177 pm, Glencoe Public Library, 320 Park Ave. MONIQUE F. PARSONSGreen Gold:The Avocado's Remarkable Journey from Humble Superfood to Toast of a NationWe partner with Glencoe Public Library as they present Glencoe writer Monique F. Parsons, the author (with Sarah Allaback) of Green Gold, documenting more than a century of cross-cultural cooperation, science, and savvy marketing. This event is free, but registration is requested. THURSDAY, JUNE 196 pm at the StoreLANEY KATZ BECKERIn the Family WayA group of suburban housewives in the mid-1960s help one another navigate their personal challenges, marriages, and their pregnan-cies—both wanted and unwanted.It captures the experiences of women on the cusp of liberation as they struggle with their own complex feelings about being wives, mothers, and women with their own dreams and ambitions. FRIDAY, JUNE 20 4:30 pm, The Winnetka Chapel, Valslist Chapel StageThe Just Listen Sessions: Authors & ArtistsWe partner with Valslist Music to present a brand-new literary/music feature debuting at this year’s Winnetka Music Festival. This special event will kick off the festival weekend with an intimate, live conversation between celebrated music authors and festival founder Val Haller. The events are free to festival ticket holders. For more details, see winnetkamusicfestival.com. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 256 pm at the StoreBRIAN ANDERSONLoud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of SoundThis is the first book to tell the full story of the Grateful Dead’s “Wall of Sound,” an unprecedented and unparalleled speaker system that was as tall as a school bus is long and more than 100 feet wide. The band’s quest for roaring yet crystal clear sound began after their formation in 1965, colliding with the ‘60s progres-sive social climate. (Out June 17). THURSDAY, JUNE 266 pm at the StoreJAMES POMERANTZ and TOM HRUBY, The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak NovelThis first in a planned three-book series is a fictional account based on Hruby's real-life story.The main character, Deklan, fought in the combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan as a Navy SEAL breacher—also known as an explosive expert—and on the stadium grass of the Big Ten football fields as a linebacker, and now in Chicago as a special agent for the FBI's Violent Crimes Against Children squad. SATURDAY, JUNE 2810:30 am, Storytime at the StorePAUL AGASE, Harry the Catwho is estranged from her daughter, Christine, becomes interested in the search. As Bev works out strategies, assembles volunteers, and extends the area covered, she ignores the calls from her sisters about her mother’s health. Lena is a bird watcher and forager, whose online presence introduces her to a young man anxious to remove himself from the grid of society. There is a strong sense of place and atmospheric feeling in this novel. Each woman's chapters capture their character. As Valerie writes, time seems to slow, while Bev’s rescue teams are under an increasing time crunch. There is a poetic quality to the writing in Valerie's journal. Bev’s fierce determination to succeed is palpable, and Lena’s increasing involvement offsets her loneliness. The heartwood is the dark inner core of a tree. In Gaige’s engaging thriller, she reveals the vulnerabilities and the resilience of three women through their losses and their search for meaning.CHARLOTTE ROBERTSONThe Place of Tides by James Rebanks ($28.99, out June 24). Imagine being a middle-aged farmer and shepherd as well as an accomplished author (The Shepherd’s Life 2015 and Pastoral Song 2021) whose response to midlife ennui is to gallivant off to a remote Norwegian island and spend a season tending to eider duck nests with two elderly women. James Rebanks did that very thing, and this book is his recounting of time spent with Anna and Ingrid and the ducks. Located off the west coast of Norway and just south of the Arctic Circle, the Vega Archipelago has been fished, farmed, and duck-tended for thousands of years. The “duck women,” of whom Anna is one of the last, spend the late spring and early summer in these tiny, rocky islands, building and rehabbing little shelters for the eider ducks to build their nests in. Once the eggs have hatched and the ducklings have fledged, the duck women gather the eiderdown left in the nests, clean it, and sell it. Eiderdown has been a valuable commodi-ty for a long time and many local families became quite wealthy on eiderdown earnings. It is a harsh life of physical work on the rocky, exposed, coast, and it was just what the author was looking for, though his beautiful descriptions of the seascape, islands and weather belie the difficulty of daily existence. Anna’s dedication to her work and her heritage shine through this charming book as does the author’s appreciation for the place and its history.MIKE WYSOCKShortlisted for the 2025 International Booker Prize, Vincenzo Latronico’s novella, Perfection ($15.95 in paperback), examines authenticity at the intersection of digital and physical life. Ana and Tom, stand-ins for a generation of social-media obsessed aesthetes, are expat creatives working remotely in Berlin, two of an entire generation of remote workers not eager to allow their careers to represent the defining characteristic of their lives. Instead, Ana and Tom, and their peers, focus more on maintaining their living spaces to accurately reflect the same sun-dappled, magazine-perfect photos posted to Instagram accounts—images devoid of the stuff of life: charger cords, dirty dishes, unmade beds, piles of papers, and post-it notes. Careers are adornments to a life. “Work” is often represented in posts of laptops on café tables next to perfect flat whites, snaps posted from the seen-and-be-seen streets of trendy neighborhoods—no matter if work isn’t even present. What happens to the soul when validation of one’s life exists more in the comments field and like notifications than anywhere else? I would say that Latronico’s judgment is harsh, but it isn’t. His distant and generic narration takes on the tone of sociologist more than anything, and I was left with a lasting sense of pity and anxiety—not only for Ana and Tom, but also for myself. This wonderful novella, like all truly great works of fiction, holds up a mirror to 21st century life; the reflection is distorted, and I have a sinking dread that it isn’t because there is anything wrong with the mirror. Nothing is ever as perfect as a picture, is it?
Harry was beloved by everyone in the neighborhood who was lucky enough to meet him. A special cat, he brought joy to all. See page 6.2:30 pm at the Store ARLYNN PRESSERYour Book of Days: A Compendium of History, Anecdote, Sciences and CuriositiesArlynn's new book, designed by her friendLynn Schmelzerand illustrated byM.A. Del Rosario, is an encyclopedic collection of brief essays, one for every day of the year. Each day's entry also includes space for the reader's own observations or reactions, to both the day and the essay. SATURDAY, JULY 1210:30 am, Storytime at the StoreDARCY DAY ZOELLSSmithy and MeThis book is a funny celebration of the bond between a child and their dog.Perfect for ages 5 – 9. See page 6. FRIDAY, JULY 18 and SATURDAY, JULY 19Winnetka Sidewalk SalesNote: July 19 is our Annual 20% off sale for all of our Discount Club members. More details to come. THURSDAY, JULY 316 pm, at the StoreEMMA NOYESSoul of ShadowIn this YA romantasy, love, magic, gods, and monsters collide. Perfect for ages 13 – 18. See page 6. SATURDAY, AUGUST 1610:30 am Storytime at the StoreJAY FLECK Tiny T. Rex and the First Day OopsiesIllustrator Jay Fleck will draw for us and present a great story for new pre-school and kindergarten kids. SATURDAY, JUNE 710:30 am, Saturday StorytimeALEX WILLANPiece OutFor kids ages 4 to 8, here’s a secret action-adventure story of a red game piece accidentally left out of the box. Nothing will stop Red from reaching home.See page 6. TUESDAY, JUNE 106 pm at the Store RICH COHENMurder in the Dollhouse: The Jennifer Dulos StoryCohen’s new true crime book is an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Jennifer Dulos and the aftershocks that rattled a wealthy Connecticut suburb.A story of status, wealth, love, and hate,itpeers beneath the veneer of propriety that surrounded the Duloses to uncover the origins and motivations of a crime that became a national obsession. THURSDAY, JUNE 126:30 pm at the StoreKAREN DUKESSWelcome to Murder WeekAn American woman from Buffalo travels to the English countryside when she discovers tickets her late mother had purchased for a murder mystery simulation in a small British town that has come together to stage a fake murder mystery to attract tourism to their quaint hamlet.Karen will be in conversation with Glencoe writerSally Schwartz. TUESDAY, JUNE 176:30 pm at the StoreMATTHEW GAVIN FRANKSubmersed: Wonder, Obsession, and Murder in the World of Amateur SubmarinesFrank’s blend of literary prose, science writing, and true crime is a foray into the world of deep-sea divers, the obsession and madness that oceans inspire in us, and the story of submarine inventor Peter Madsen's murder of journalist Kim Wall. Frank will be in conversation with authorKathleen Rooney. TUESDAY, JUNE 177 pm, Glencoe Public Library, 320 Park Ave. MONIQUE F. PARSONSGreen Gold:The Avocado's Remarkable Journey from Humble Superfood to Toast of a NationWe partner with Glencoe Public Library as they present Glencoe writer Monique F. Parsons, the author (with Sarah Allaback) of Green Gold, documenting more than a century of cross-cultural cooperation, science, and savvy marketing. This event is free, but registration is requested. THURSDAY, JUNE 196 pm at the StoreLANEY KATZ BECKERIn the Family WayA group of suburban housewives in the mid-1960s help one another navigate their personal challenges, marriages, and their pregnan-cies—both wanted and unwanted.It captures the experiences of women on the cusp of liberation as they struggle with their own complex feelings about being wives, mothers, and women with their own dreams and ambitions. FRIDAY, JUNE 20 4:30 pm, The Winnetka Chapel, Valslist Chapel StageThe Just Listen Sessions: Authors & ArtistsWe partner with Valslist Music to present a brand-new literary/music feature debuting at this year’s Winnetka Music Festival. This special event will kick off the festival weekend with an intimate, live conversation between celebrated music authors and festival founder Val Haller. The events are free to festival ticket holders. For more details, see winnetkamusicfestival.com. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 256 pm at the StoreBRIAN ANDERSONLoud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of SoundThis is the first book to tell the full story of the Grateful Dead’s “Wall of Sound,” an unprecedented and unparalleled speaker system that was as tall as a school bus is long and more than 100 feet wide. The band’s quest for roaring yet crystal clear sound began after their formation in 1965, colliding with the ‘60s progres-sive social climate. (Out June 17). THURSDAY, JUNE 266 pm at the StoreJAMES POMERANTZ and TOM HRUBY, The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak NovelThis first in a planned three-book series is a fictional account based on Hruby's real-life story.The main character, Deklan, fought in the combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan as a Navy SEAL breacher—also known as an explosive expert—and on the stadium grass of the Big Ten football fields as a linebacker, and now in Chicago as a special agent for the FBI's Violent Crimes Against Children squad. SATURDAY, JUNE 2810:30 am, Storytime at the StorePAUL AGASE, Harry the CatMike Leonard captivates our audience.Marilyn Langworthy braves a stormy evening to meet Michelle Young, author of The Art Spy.
Father’s Day RecommendationsFictionPhantom Orbit: A Thrillerby David Ignatius ($18.99 in paperback) "A meaty, slow-burning spy thriller that combines geopolitics with a primer on celestial mechanics."—Steven Poole,Wall Street JournalStrangers in Time: A World War II Novelby David Baldacci ($30) "This riveting novel plunges us into wartime London through three unforgettable main characters - a young boy, a teenage girl, and a bookshop owner - who come together to endure the terrifying bombing of a city they love, and at the same time, help each other to unravel the heart-wrenching mysteries of their own families."—Lisa ScottolineLethal Prey (A Prey Novel #35)by John Sandford ($32) "A superlative police procedural paired with an outrageous serial-killer saga, enlivened by an array of quirky characters." —Wall Street JournalMarble Hall Murders (Susan Ryeland Series #3)by Anthony Horowitz ($31) "Horowitz is at the top of his game here, linking past and present in a virtuouso finale worthy of Agatha Christie. Fans will clamor for the sequel." —a starred review inPublishers WeeklyBeartoothby Callan Wink (($28) "This taut, compelling novel explores the great outdoors--and a realm of moral uncertainty. . . . A ferociously gripping book." —The EconomistTwistby Colum McCann ($28) "Told with McCann's incomparable prose,Twistopens a window into an obscure way people on earth are connected, told by a man who is himself fairly broken. . . . Gorgeously written and sad and inspiring."—The Boston GlobeThe Doormanby Chris Pavone ($30) "The Doormanpits the privileged gentry of Manhattan against the serfs they fear will breach their moats and scale the walls of their high-rise co-ops. Pavone's depiction of present-day New York City is a callback to Bonfire of the Vanities, but his telling is too real to be satirical."—Griffin Dunne, author ofThe Friday Afternoon ClubNightshadeby Michael Connelly ($30) “With an intriguingly low-key but skilled and principled hero, his significant other, a pesky if useful reporter, a conniving mayor, and a crime boss known as Baby Head,Nightshadeis a gripping and promising start to crime virtuoso Connelly's new series."—starred review in BooklistNonfictionThe Big Hop: The First Non-Stop Flight Across the Atlantic Ocean and Into the Future by Davie Rooney ($29.99)The Golf 100: A Spirited Ranking of the Greatest Players of All Time by Michael Arkush ($30)Into the Ice: The Northwest Passage, the Polar Sun, and a 175-Year-Old Mystery by Mark Synnott ($33)The Crazies: The Cattleman, the Wind Prospector, and a War Out West by Amy Gamerman ($29.99)Chicago Cocktails: An Elegant Collection of Over 100 Recipes Inspired by the Windy City by Nicole Schnitz ($22.99) Homestand: Small Town Baseball and the Fight for the Soul of America by Will Bardenwerper ($30)SNAFU: The Definitive Guide to History’s Greatest Screwup by Ed Helms ($32)The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780 by Rick Atkinson ($42)100 Runs of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Races and Trails by Bart Yasso ($40)Sailing the Seas: Grand Maritime Adventures by Dayyan Armstrong (editor) ($65)Mark Twain by Ron Chernow ($45)Barbecue: Smoked & Grilled Recipes from Across the Globe by Hugh Mangum and Shana Liebman ($49.95)Rivers Always Reach the Sea: Angling Stories by Monte Burke ($28.95, out June 3)The Jazzmen: How Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie Transformed America by Larry Tye ($32.50)Summer Travel/Summer AdventureIt is that time of year when, as Chaucer wrote, “longen folk to goon on pilgrimages.” Smart travelers prepare for their journeys. Herewith a few reading suggestions to help you plan:A Place Called Yellowstone: The Epic History of the World’s First National Park by Randall Wilson If Yellowstone and the surrounding area are on your vacation list, Wilson’s book will enrich your experience. ($34)The White Ladder: Triumph and Tragedy at the Dawn of Mountaineering by Daniel Light Perhaps mountain climbing is not in your plans, but hiking some mountain trails is. You may never climb K2 or Everest but you can dream. ($32.50)A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon by Kevin Fedarko It used to be that a walk in the park meant an easy walk. Fedarko’s 750-mile trek through the Grand Canyon was anything but...and while it extols nature it reminds us of the dangers that await the unwary. ($34) A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson The Appalachian Trail runs from Georgia to Maine. You can hike parts of it from just about anywhere along its route. Bryson recounts his (failed ) attempt to walk the entire trail and his encounters with people and places along the way. ($19)Looking for basic travel guides? We carry a wide selection of national and international guides from Frommer’s, Fodor’s, Lonely Planet and others. If what you need is not in stock, we can often order it for you.You don’t have to go very far to enjoy the outdoors! Check out our guides to the Chicago area, Wisconsin, and Indiana. Going further? A Travelers History is a series of compact volumes designed to give you an accurate overview of countries and significant cities worldwide. Covering prehistory to the present, these guides include major events, art, and culture. Written by reputable historians, the volumes in A Travelers History provide perfect preparation for journeys to familiar (and unfamiliar) places.With the advent of smart phones, maps are less common, but we do offer road atlases for your long-distance cross-country trips.And don’t forget to grab some books to read on your journey. Looking for something special? Just ask our knowledgeable and well-travelled staff.
With warm weather on the way, we are ready to read some good summer stories. There are wonder-ful titles to take to camp or to the beach or to read in your own backyard. We also have author visits in June and July. On Saturday, June 7, at 10:30 am, we host a Storytime with Alex Willian, whose book Piece Out offers a fresh spin on a universal premise: the secret action-adventure story of a toy. When Red, a game piece, is accidentally left out of the game box, nothing—not a hungry robot (the vacuum cleaner) nor ferocious Lady Flufferton (the family dog)—will stop Red from reaching home. Perfect for kids ages 4 – 8. Our next Storytime will be on Satur-day, June 28 at 10:30 am. Come hear the story of Harry the Cat by Paul Agase. When Harry the cat shows up unexpectedly at his neighbors’ door, he gave them a gift they never would have expected but definitely needed. They lost their beloved cat, Pokey, and were left with a huge hole in their hearts. Luckily, Harry showed up at their door to the delight of the family and neighborhood.Perfect for kids age 4 and up.On Saturday, July 12, at 10:30 am, come meet author Darcy Day Zoells as she shares her story Smithy and Me. This is a humorous story about the bond between a child and her dog and bedtime hijinks. For kids ages 3 and up.On Thursday, July 31, at 6 pm, former Wilmette residentEmma Noyesjoins us to discuss and sign copies of her new YA novel,Soul of Shadow, athrilling contemporary romantasy inspired byNorse mythology. Good for readers ages 13 – 18. This program is free, but registration is requested.On Saturday mornings when we don’t have guest children’s authors, we will be having our usual storytimes with staff member Linda Diekman. She will be reading a variety of delight-ful stories you will not want to miss.With so many of you outside, discovering allkinds of interesting things, come visit our science section, where you will find books on gardening, trees, nature walks, and even on the variety of shells to look for when you are at the beach. If you are going to camp, we have lots of good books to take with you. or we will be happy to send the books to you. Here are a few suggestions of books you might enjoy. From the graphic novel shelves look forMiss Camper by Kat Fajardo (out July 1), Camp Frenemies by Liz Montague, Creaky Acres by Carlista Brill and Nilah Magruder, Dragon Forged: Sword of the Champion by Eric Lide, and Camp Prodigy by Caroline Palmer. From our other shelves look forThe River by Gary Paulsen, How I Became a Spy: A Mystery of World War II London by Deborah Hopkinson, Hideout by Watt Key, The Double Trouble Puzzle by James Peterson and Keir Graff, and Horse Camp by Carrie Seim and Steph Waldo.And kids, onquiet days, come hang out with us.We will always have good books, puzzles, or craft ideas for you and your friends. Happy Summer!the children’s line...BETSY BALYEATThe Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner($17.99). Finn Connelly is nothing like his dad, a star athlete and firefighter hero who always ran toward danger until he died two years ago.Finn is about to fail 7th grade and has never made headlines...until now. Caught on camera vandalizing a cemetery, he is in big trouble for knocking down some dead old lady's tombstone. Turns out that grave belongs to a legendary local mountain climber, and her daughter makes Finn an unusual offer: she will drop the charges if he agrees to climb all 46 Adirondack High Peaks in a single summer.And there is just one more thing—he has to bring along the dead woman's dog. In a wild three months of misadventures, mountain mud, and unexpected mentors, Finn begins to find his way on the trails.At the top of each peak, he can see for miles and slowly begins to understand more about himself and his dad. The mountains don't care about any of that, and as the clock ticks down to September, they have more surprises in store.Finn's final summit challenge may be more than a hero can face. Kate Messner has delivered a masterpiece. Ages 9 - 14AMY TROGDONBright Lights, Summer Nights by Shauntay Grant, Illustrated by Zach Manbeck ($18.99). Amid the "bright lights" of a summer evening, a young child seems intent on playing, while a fairy godmother tries to cajole him to sleep.The rhythmic verse is soothing, while the illustrations are full of balloons, carousel rides, caramel apples, and dreams of riding fireflies.A peaceful, colorful bedtime read. Ages 2 - 5Return to Sender by Vera Brosgol($18.99). Life has been hard for 4th grader Oliver since his dad died.Left with nowhere to live and little money, the future look dismal.When Oliver's aunt leaves them an apartment in her will, Oliver begins school at the Whittle Academy, where his mother works as a custodian. At school, Oliver observes the differences between himself and his wealthy classmates. One day, he discovers a wish-granting mail slot in his apartment.His only friend, troublemaker Colette, and he make wish upon wish, each one more extravagant than the last. As time passes, Oliver and Colette begin to realize how these wishes affect others—adversely—but others want the wishes to continue, no matter what the consequences. This novel asks the question: "What would happen if we were content with what we have?" This is magical realism at its best! Ages 8 - 12Growing Home by Beth Ferry,illustrated by The Fan Brothers($17.99). Grumpy goldfish Toasty is the only pet at Number 3 Rangshorn Drive, but he is not the favorite of young botanist Jillian Tupper.That distinction goes to a very self-centeredplant named Ivy.Toasty, who lives in an antique, octagonal fish tank, often argues with Ivy and splashes her.This is all in good fun, as they have developed an amicable relationship until...along comes a curious spider, Arthur, and a shy violet plant named Ollie. To complicate matters, they discover thatToasty's fish tank has magical powers! With a careful splash from Toasty, Ivy can liftheavy objects, and Ollie can become invisible.These powers prove very useful when a devious antique dealer spies the fish tank and tries to obtain it. The author provides vocabulary lessons and chatty dialogue describing the foursome's quirks and especially that of isolated Toasty. Illustrations by The Fan Brothers are humorous and entertaining. A good read aloud! Ages 6 - 9LINDA DIEKMANI’ve been reading youth nonfiction books recently and wanted to share these notable additions to our shelves for older readers.Fight to Win: Heroes of American Labor by Kim Kelly ($17.99) is a Young Readers Edition of her work Fight Like Hell: The Untold Story of American Labor. It distills that longer work into highly readable stories of inspiring figures who may be lost in the pages of the history books. Including historical and contemporary labor organizers and workers, readers will meet labor luminaries such as Frances Perkins (Secretary of Labor under Franklin Roosevelt who established Social Security), Eugene Debs (founder of the Railway Union), Judy Heumann (founder of the Disability Rights Movement), and Jennifer Bates (a union organiz-er at Amazon). Pairing this book with J. Albert Mann’s 2024 book Shift Happens: The History of Labor in the United States, will give young readers an appreciation for the blood, sweat, and tears that have led to improvements in worker’s rights over the years. Ages 10 and upDeath in the Jungle: Murder Betrayal, and the Lost Dream of Jonestown by Candace Fleming ($19.99). Teens may be familiar with the expression “drink-ing the Kool-Aid,” but not aware of its connection to the tragedy of the People’s Temple in Guyana in the 1970s. Candace Fleming delves into the fascinating story of the magnetic Jim Jones, leader of the temple, beginning with his Midwestern roots and culminating with the tragedy that took the lives of over 900 church members. Fleming balances the chronological narrative, being mindful to not let Jones’ eccentricities overshadow the voices of those who lived through the cult experience. Readers will find much to ponder about cults, charismatic leaders, and peer pressure in this meticulously researched, absorbing work. Ages 13 and upCELIA, a teen reviewerThe Promised Neverlandby Posuka Demizu and Kaiu Shirai ($9.99 in paperback) is a thrilling adventure full of twists and turns. For Manga fans looking for a dystopian series that will keep you on the edge of your seat,The Promised Neverlandis for you! The story opens by introducing Emma, a cheerful 12-year-old girl living at an orphanage with her siblings, 37 other orphans, and their caretaker, whom they call mom. However, every so often an orphan gets adopted and is never seen again. One day, when Conny, a 6-year-old girl, leaves to be adopted without her prize teddy bear, Emma and Ray, also orphans, follow her to the orphanage gate planning to return it to her. At the gate, Emma and Ray discover a horrifying truth that will forever change their world. This is just one of the book’s million plot twists. Not to mention, if you find yourself hooked to The Promised Neverland like I did, you’ll be rewarded with 19 more books in the series waiting for you to devour. Read now! Age 13 and upBETSY BALYEAT
With warm weather on the way, we are ready to read some good summer stories. There are wonder-ful titles to take to camp or to the beach or to read in your own backyard. We also have author visits in June and July. On Saturday, June 7, at 10:30 am, we host a Storytime with Alex Willian, whose book Piece Out offers a fresh spin on a universal premise: the secret action-adventure story of a toy. When Red, a game piece, is accidentally left out of the game box, nothing—not a hungry robot (the vacuum cleaner) nor ferocious Lady Flufferton (the family dog)—will stop Red from reaching home. Perfect for kids ages 4 – 8. Our next Storytime will be on Satur-day, June 28 at 10:30 am. Come hear the story of Harry the Cat by Paul Agase. When Harry the cat shows up unexpectedly at his neighbors’ door, he gave them a gift they never would have expected but definitely needed. They lost their beloved cat, Pokey, and were left with a huge hole in their hearts. Luckily, Harry showed up at their door to the delight of the family and neighborhood.Perfect for kids age 4 and up.On Saturday, July 12, at 10:30 am, come meet author Darcy Day Zoells as she shares her story Smithy and Me. This is a humorous story about the bond between a child and her dog and bedtime hijinks. For kids ages 3 and up.On Thursday, July 31, at 6 pm, former Wilmette residentEmma Noyesjoins us to discuss and sign copies of her new YA novel,Soul of Shadow, athrilling contemporary romantasy inspired byNorse mythology. Good for readers ages 13 – 18. This program is free, but registration is requested.On Saturday mornings when we don’t have guest children’s authors, we will be having our usual storytimes with staff member Linda Diekman. She will be reading a variety of delight-ful stories you will not want to miss.With so many of you outside, discovering allkinds of interesting things, come visit our science section, where you will find books on gardening, trees, nature walks, and even on the variety of shells to look for when you are at the beach. If you are going to camp, we have lots of good books to take with you. or we will be happy to send the books to you. Here are a few suggestions of books you might enjoy. From the graphic novel shelves look forMiss Camper by Kat Fajardo (out July 1), Camp Frenemies by Liz Montague, Creaky Acres by Carlista Brill and Nilah Magruder, Dragon Forged: Sword of the Champion by Eric Lide, and Camp Prodigy by Caroline Palmer. From our other shelves look forThe River by Gary Paulsen, How I Became a Spy: A Mystery of World War II London by Deborah Hopkinson, Hideout by Watt Key, The Double Trouble Puzzle by James Peterson and Keir Graff, and Horse Camp by Carrie Seim and Steph Waldo.And kids, onquiet days, come hang out with us.We will always have good books, puzzles, or craft ideas for you and your friends. Happy Summer!BETSY BALYEATThe Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner($17.99). Finn Connelly is nothing like his dad, a star athlete and firefighter hero who always ran toward danger until he died two years ago.Finn is about to fail 7th grade and has never made headlines...until now. Caught on camera vandalizing a cemetery, he is in big trouble for knocking down some dead old lady's tombstone. Turns out that grave belongs to a legendary local mountain climber, and her daughter makes Finn an unusual offer: she will drop the charges if he agrees to climb all 46 Adirondack High Peaks in a single summer.And there is just one more thing—he has to bring along the dead woman's dog. In a wild three months of misadventures, mountain mud, and unexpected mentors, Finn begins to find his way on the trails.At the top of each peak, he can see for miles and slowly begins to understand more about himself and his dad. The mountains don't care about any of that, and as the clock ticks down to September, they have more surprises in store.Finn's final summit challenge may be more than a hero can face. Kate Messner has delivered a masterpiece. Ages 9 - 14AMY TROGDONBright Lights, Summer Nights by Shauntay Grant, Illustrated by Zach Manbeck ($18.99). Amid the "bright lights" of a summer evening, a young child seems intent on playing, while a fairy godmother tries to cajole him to sleep.The rhythmic verse is soothing, while the illustrations are full of balloons, carousel rides, caramel apples, and dreams of riding fireflies.A peaceful, colorful bedtime read. Ages 2 - 5Return to Sender by Vera Brosgol($18.99). Life has been hard for 4th grader Oliver since his dad died.Left with nowhere to live and little money, the future look dismal.When Oliver's aunt leaves them an apartment in her will, Oliver begins school at the Whittle Academy, where his mother works as a custodian. At school, Oliver observes the differences between himself and his wealthy classmates. One day, he discovers a wish-granting mail slot in his apartment.His only friend, troublemaker Colette, and he make wish upon wish, each one more extravagant than the last. As time passes, Oliver and Colette begin to realize how these wishes affect others—adversely—but others want the wishes to continue, no matter what the consequences. This novel asks the question: "What would happen if we were content with what we have?" This is magical realism at its best! Ages 8 - 12Growing Home by Beth Ferry,illustrated by The Fan Brothers($17.99). Grumpy goldfish Toasty is the only pet at Number 3 Rangshorn Drive, but he is not the favorite of young botanist Jillian Tupper.That distinction goes to a very self-centeredplant named Ivy.Toasty, who lives in an antique, octagonal fish tank, often argues with Ivy and splashes her.This is all in good fun, as they have developed an amicable relationship until...along comes a curious spider, Arthur, and a shy violet plant named Ollie. To complicate matters, they discover thatToasty's fish tank has magical powers! With a careful splash from Toasty, Ivy can liftheavy objects, and Ollie can become invisible.These powers prove very useful when a devious antique dealer spies the fish tank and tries to obtain it. The author provides vocabulary lessons and chatty dialogue describing the foursome's quirks and especially that of isolated Toasty. Illustrations by The Fan Brothers are humorous and entertaining. A good read aloud! Ages 6 - 9LINDA DIEKMANI’ve been reading youth nonfiction books recently and wanted to share these notable additions to our shelves for older readers.Fight to Win: Heroes of American Labor by Kim Kelly ($17.99) is a Young Readers Edition of her work Fight Like Hell: The Untold Story of American Labor. It distills that longer work into highly readable stories of inspiring figures who may be lost in the pages of the history books. Including historical and contemporary labor organizers and workers, readers will meet labor luminaries such as Frances Perkins (Secretary of Labor under Franklin Roosevelt who established Social Security), Eugene Debs (founder of the Railway Union), Judy Heumann (founder of the Disability Rights Movement), and Jennifer Bates (a union organiz-er at Amazon). Pairing this book with J. Albert Mann’s 2024 book Shift Happens: The History of Labor in the United States, will give young readers an appreciation for the blood, sweat, and tears that have led to improvements in worker’s rights over the years. Ages 10 and upDeath in the Jungle: Murder Betrayal, and the Lost Dream of Jonestown by Candace Fleming ($19.99). Teens may be familiar with the expression “drink-ing the Kool-Aid,” but not aware of its connection to the tragedy of the People’s Temple in Guyana in the 1970s. Candace Fleming delves into the fascinating story of the magnetic Jim Jones, leader of the temple, beginning with his Midwestern roots and culminating with the tragedy that took the lives of over 900 church members. Fleming balances the chronological narrative, being mindful to not let Jones’ eccentricities overshadow the voices of those who lived through the cult experience. Readers will find much to ponder about cults, charismatic leaders, and peer pressure in this meticulously researched, absorbing work. Ages 13 and upCELIA, a teen reviewerThe Promised Neverlandby Posuka Demizu and Kaiu Shirai ($9.99 in paperback) is a thrilling adventure full of twists and turns. For Manga fans looking for a dystopian series that will keep you on the edge of your seat,The Promised Neverlandis for you! The story opens by introducing Emma, a cheerful 12-year-old girl living at an orphanage with her siblings, 37 other orphans, and their caretaker, whom they call mom. However, every so often an orphan gets adopted and is never seen again. One day, when Conny, a 6-year-old girl, leaves to be adopted without her prize teddy bear, Emma and Ray, also orphans, follow her to the orphanage gate planning to return it to her. At the gate, Emma and Ray discover a horrifying truth that will forever change their world. This is just one of the book’s million plot twists. Not to mention, if you find yourself hooked to The Promised Neverland like I did, you’ll be rewarded with 19 more books in the series waiting for you to devour. Read now! Age 13 and upGreat Books for GradsMake Magic: The Book of Inspiration You Didn’t Know You Needed by Brad Meltzer ($14.99)Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…and Maybe the World by Admiral H. McRaven ($20)How to Do the Right Thing: An Ancient Guide to Treating People Fairly by Seneca ($17.95)Letters to a Young Poet by Ranier Maria Rilke ($20)The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College by Harlan Cohen ($18.99)Secrets of Adulthood: Simple Truths for Our Complex Lives by Gretchen Rubin ($20)Say Yes: Find Your Passion, Unlock Your Potential, and Transform Your Life by Kwame Alexander ($16.99)Person in Progress: A Road Map to the Psychology of Your 20s by Jemma Sbeg ($21)Poetry is Not a Luxury: Poems for All Seasons ($24)Illustrated Meditations: Life Lessons from Marcus Aurelius ($19.99)We had so much fun at a writing workshop with Anna James, author of Chronicles of Whetherwhy.
PRESORTEDSTANDARDU.S. POSTAGEPAIDPERMIT 930CAROLSTREAM, IL811 Elm Street ● Winnetka, Illinois 60093Monday- Thursday 9:30 am - 6:30 pmFriday 9:30 am - 5 pmSaturday 10 am - 5 pmSunday 11 am - 5 pmTelephone: (847) 446-8979www.thebookstall.comemail: books@thebookstall.comJUNESaturday, June 7 10:30 am, Saturday Storytime ALEX WILLAN, Piece OutTuesday, June 10 6 pm at the Store RICH COHEN Murder in the Dollhouse: The Jennifer Dulos StoryThursday, June 12 6:30 pm at the Store KAREN DUKESS Welcome to Murder WeekTuesday, June 17 6:30 pm at the Store MATTHEW GAVIN FRANK, in conversation with KATHLEEN ROONEY Submersed 7 pm, Glencoe Public Library MONIQUE F. PARSONS Green GoldThursday, June 19 6 pm at the Store LANEY KATZ BECKER In the Family WayFriday, June 20 4:30 pm, The Winnetka Chapel Valslist Chapel Stage THE JUST LISTEN SESSIONS: AUTHORS & ARTISTSWednesday, June 25 6 pm at the Store BRIAN ANDERSON Loud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of SoundThursday, June 26 6 pm at the Store JAMES POMERANTZ and TOM HRUBY The Breacher’s PlaybookSaturday, June 28 10:30 am, Storytime at the Store PAUL AGASE Harry the Cat 2:30 pm at the Store ARLYNN PRESSER Your Book of DaysJULYFriday, July 4 Independence Day The Book Stall is closed.Saturday, July 12 10:30 am, Storytime at the Store DARCY DAY ZOELLS Smithy and MeFriday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 Winnetka Sidewalk SalesThursday, July 31 6 pm, at the Store EMMA NOYES Soul of ShadowAUGUSTSaturday, August 16 10:30 am, Storytime at the Store JAY FLECK Tiny T. Rex and the First-Day Oopsies