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Message Holiday Gift Guide ‘24-’25

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMPLAYGROUNDRichard Powers (W.W. Norton & Company, $29.99)Powers returns with another sweeping multiple-storyline panorama focused on issues surrounding technology and the environment; this time, he channels a childlike sense of wonder to wax poetic about the ocean and its countless mysteries. A moving tale of friendship, ambition, and community, with a much-welcome dose of optimism. (Todd)WE’LL PRESCRIBE YOU A CATSyou Ishida (Berkley Books, $25) Calling all fellow animal lovers! This book is a love letter to all our furry friends and the healing and solace their companionship lends us. Told in fi ve imaginative short stories, We’ll Prescribe You a Cat is the perfect heartwarming, cozy read that will leave readers fi lled with (much-needed) hope! (Alana)CLEARCarys Davies (Scribner Book Company, $24)My favorite novel of this year evokes a timeless yarn about human connection and compassion. An impoverished clergyman is sent to clear the last man from an isolated Scottish island, but when he falls from a cliff and is left unconscious, the hermit becomes his caretaker and teacher of an ancient language. (Aggie)CREATION LAKERachel Kushner (Scribner Book Company, $29.99)Spy-for-hire Sadie (not her real name) goes deep undercover in rural France, picking up a lover and local wine while embedding herself with eco-saboteurs that skew philosophical. With a noir-like vibe, Rachel Kushner delivers with mesmerizing and sharp prose—at times profound, frequently deadpan. Oh, and there’s some Neanderthal stuff, too. (Amanda)ABCAFICTIONDBCDCOLORED TELEVISIONDanzy Senna (Riverhead Books, $29)Funny and sharp, Colored Television is an outstanding, fast-paced novel that revolves around Jane Gibson, a biracial woman who is close to fi nishing her second novel after taking almost a decade to write it. When things don’t go according to plan, she turns to working in television, with unexpected consequences! (Heather)EDear community member,As we approach Kepler’s 70th anniversary in 2025, we are reminded of the deep roots that anchor us. Since its founding in 1955 by Roy Kepler, our bookstore has been more than just a purveyor of books; it has been a beacon for free speech and peace activism. Kepler’s was born during a social upheaval when voices were rising in defense of human dignity, civil liberties, and peace, and this bookstore stood at the heart of it all. Those values — the freedom to share our truths and the commitment to building a more just world through nonviolent means — are even more relevant today than they were 70 years ago.In celebrating our history, we also reflect on what it means to carry that legacy forward. The conversations we host, the stories we share, and the community we foster are all part of that mission. We recognize that the power of books lies not just in the words on the page, but in the dialogues they inspire, the empathy they nurture, and the change they can ignite.This holiday season, we invite you to explore our exquisitely curated gift guide: a collection of books that honor this spirit of curiosity, conversation, and transformation. Each book you find here is a step in our shared journey and a testament to our commitment to bringing diverse voices and ideas into our community.Thank you for being part of our remarkable story. Your support and engagement have been invaluable. Together, we’ll continue celebrating the values that make Kepler’s unique, as we look forward to our next chapter.Warm wishes and happy holidays,Praveen MadanCEO, Kepler’s BooksBoard Member, Kepler’s Literary Foundation

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMPLAYGROUNDRichard Powers (W.W. Norton & Company, $29.99)Powers returns with another sweeping multiple-storyline panorama focused on issues surrounding technology and the environment; this time, he channels a childlike sense of wonder to wax poetic about the ocean and its countless mysteries. A moving tale of friendship, ambition, and community, with a much-welcome dose of optimism. (Todd)WE’LL PRESCRIBE YOU A CATSyou Ishida (Berkley Books, $25) Calling all fellow animal lovers! This book is a love letter to all our furry friends and the healing and solace their companionship lends us. Told in fi ve imaginative short stories, We’ll Prescribe You a Cat is the perfect heartwarming, cozy read that will leave readers fi lled with (much-needed) hope! (Alana)CLEARCarys Davies (Scribner Book Company, $24)My favorite novel of this year evokes a timeless yarn about human connection and compassion. An impoverished clergyman is sent to clear the last man from an isolated Scottish island, but when he falls from a cliff and is left unconscious, the hermit becomes his caretaker and teacher of an ancient language. (Aggie)CREATION LAKERachel Kushner (Scribner Book Company, $29.99)Spy-for-hire Sadie (not her real name) goes deep undercover in rural France, picking up a lover and local wine while embedding herself with eco-saboteurs that skew philosophical. With a noir-like vibe, Rachel Kushner delivers with mesmerizing and sharp prose—at times profound, frequently deadpan. Oh, and there’s some Neanderthal stuff, too. (Amanda)ABCAFICTIONDBCDCOLORED TELEVISIONDanzy Senna (Riverhead Books, $29)Funny and sharp, Colored Television is an outstanding, fast-paced novel that revolves around Jane Gibson, a biracial woman who is close to fi nishing her second novel after taking almost a decade to write it. When things don’t go according to plan, she turns to working in television, with unexpected consequences! (Heather)EDear community member,As we approach Kepler’s 70th anniversary in 2025, we are reminded of the deep roots that anchor us. Since its founding in 1955 by Roy Kepler, our bookstore has been more than just a purveyor of books; it has been a beacon for free speech and peace activism. Kepler’s was born during a social upheaval when voices were rising in defense of human dignity, civil liberties, and peace, and this bookstore stood at the heart of it all. Those values — the freedom to share our truths and the commitment to building a more just world through nonviolent means — are even more relevant today than they were 70 years ago.In celebrating our history, we also reflect on what it means to carry that legacy forward. The conversations we host, the stories we share, and the community we foster are all part of that mission. We recognize that the power of books lies not just in the words on the page, but in the dialogues they inspire, the empathy they nurture, and the change they can ignite.This holiday season, we invite you to explore our exquisitely curated gift guide: a collection of books that honor this spirit of curiosity, conversation, and transformation. Each book you find here is a step in our shared journey and a testament to our commitment to bringing diverse voices and ideas into our community.Thank you for being part of our remarkable story. Your support and engagement have been invaluable. Together, we’ll continue celebrating the values that make Kepler’s unique, as we look forward to our next chapter.Warm wishes and happy holidays,Praveen MadanCEO, Kepler’s BooksBoard Member, Kepler’s Literary Foundation

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMFTHE MIGHTY REDLouise Erdrich (Harper, $32)How does she do it? Erdrich has such a knack for deftly injecting serious matter into her smart, sassy prose; here, the 2008 recession and the deterioration of North Dakota’s farmland are the backdrop to a witty, empathetic portrayal of a small town and its truly memorable residents. A sensitive, profound, wildly unpredictable read. (Todd)LIBBY LOST AND FOUNDStephanie Booth (Sourcebooks Landmark, $27.99)Libby Lost and Found is an homage to all the books that transcend generations and have the power to change our lives. Combining unlikely friendship and the strength of imagination, this heartfelt novel honors the book lover in us all. (Alana)THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLEMatt Haig (Viking, $30)Looking for your next book to get lost in? Well, you found it! Matt Haig’s ability to communicate the complexities of human emotion truly never fails. The Life Impossible is a tender exploration of starting over and the power of human connection—this book is pure magic. (Alana)THE SERIAL KILLER GUIDE TO SAN FRANCISCOMichelle Chouinard (Minotaur Books, $18)Capri, the granddaughter of an infamous serial killer, is determined to clear his name, but she fi nds herself under suspicion when a copycat killer targets her ex-mother-in-law. Join her in this rollicking romp through the neighborhoods of San Francisco while hunting serial killers past and present. (Donna)WE SOLVE MURDERSRichard Osman (Pamela Dorman Books, $30)A new mystery series from the mighty Richard Osman? Bring it on! We could all use a bit more wackiness in our lives, and I’m pleased to report that the author of the Thursday Murder Clubbooks has gifted us with a new batch of oddball amateur sleuths and dastardly deeds, along with a ton of laughs. Yeah, you’ll love it. (Todd)THE GREAT WHEN: A LONG LONDON NOVELAlan Moore (Bloomsbury Publishing, $29.99)From the bewitchingly bizarre mind of Alan Moore comes a genre-bending novel that meets at the intersection of mystery, fantasy, and historical fi ction. The best fever dream of a novel you’ll read this year. A foolproof gift for the adult fantasy lover in your life who’s a little burnt out on classic sword-and-sorcery. (Lucas)POLOSTANNeal Stephenson (William Morrow & Company, $32)If you love historical fi ction but want something with the energy and eccentricities of mystery and sci-fi , then this is your book! Cowboy anarchists, nuclear secrets, Leninist spies, and Great Depression drama—Stephenson delivers it all with his characteristic zany prose and intricate, overlapping narratives. (Scott)THE BOOK OF DOORSGareth Brown (William Morrow & Company, $30)What if you had a book that could open a door to anywhere in the world? Where would you go? And what would others do to take that power for their own? A fantasy thriller that captivates from the very fi rst page, with a plot full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat, this book is essential reading. (Donna)COME TO THE WINDOWHoward Norman (W.W. Norton & Company, $27.99)Outstanding! This book is the most delightful companion, so skillfully done and so thoroughly pleasurable that I felt, by the end, revitalized. If you can avoid the summary and simply pick it up and begin, I recommend you do! (Harry)DEATH AT THE SIGN OF THE ROOKKate Atkinson (Doubleday Books, $30)A murder mystery weekend goes awry in Kate Atkinson’s cleverly chaotic whodunit—our favorite jaded detective, Jackson Brodie, fi nds himself in the middle of art thievery, faded aristocracy, and the hunt for a madman. A delight! (Amanda)FICTIONFICTIONGHIKLMNF GH IK LMNJO

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMFTHE MIGHTY REDLouise Erdrich (Harper, $32)How does she do it? Erdrich has such a knack for deftly injecting serious matter into her smart, sassy prose; here, the 2008 recession and the deterioration of North Dakota’s farmland are the backdrop to a witty, empathetic portrayal of a small town and its truly memorable residents. A sensitive, profound, wildly unpredictable read. (Todd)LIBBY LOST AND FOUNDStephanie Booth (Sourcebooks Landmark, $27.99)Libby Lost and Found is an homage to all the books that transcend generations and have the power to change our lives. Combining unlikely friendship and the strength of imagination, this heartfelt novel honors the book lover in us all. (Alana)THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLEMatt Haig (Viking, $30)Looking for your next book to get lost in? Well, you found it! Matt Haig’s ability to communicate the complexities of human emotion truly never fails. The Life Impossible is a tender exploration of starting over and the power of human connection—this book is pure magic. (Alana)THE SERIAL KILLER GUIDE TO SAN FRANCISCOMichelle Chouinard (Minotaur Books, $18)Capri, the granddaughter of an infamous serial killer, is determined to clear his name, but she fi nds herself under suspicion when a copycat killer targets her ex-mother-in-law. Join her in this rollicking romp through the neighborhoods of San Francisco while hunting serial killers past and present. (Donna)WE SOLVE MURDERSRichard Osman (Pamela Dorman Books, $30)A new mystery series from the mighty Richard Osman? Bring it on! We could all use a bit more wackiness in our lives, and I’m pleased to report that the author of the Thursday Murder Clubbooks has gifted us with a new batch of oddball amateur sleuths and dastardly deeds, along with a ton of laughs. Yeah, you’ll love it. (Todd)THE GREAT WHEN: A LONG LONDON NOVELAlan Moore (Bloomsbury Publishing, $29.99)From the bewitchingly bizarre mind of Alan Moore comes a genre-bending novel that meets at the intersection of mystery, fantasy, and historical fi ction. The best fever dream of a novel you’ll read this year. A foolproof gift for the adult fantasy lover in your life who’s a little burnt out on classic sword-and-sorcery. (Lucas)POLOSTANNeal Stephenson (William Morrow & Company, $32)If you love historical fi ction but want something with the energy and eccentricities of mystery and sci-fi , then this is your book! Cowboy anarchists, nuclear secrets, Leninist spies, and Great Depression drama—Stephenson delivers it all with his characteristic zany prose and intricate, overlapping narratives. (Scott)THE BOOK OF DOORSGareth Brown (William Morrow & Company, $30)What if you had a book that could open a door to anywhere in the world? Where would you go? And what would others do to take that power for their own? A fantasy thriller that captivates from the very fi rst page, with a plot full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat, this book is essential reading. (Donna)COME TO THE WINDOWHoward Norman (W.W. Norton & Company, $27.99)Outstanding! This book is the most delightful companion, so skillfully done and so thoroughly pleasurable that I felt, by the end, revitalized. If you can avoid the summary and simply pick it up and begin, I recommend you do! (Harry)DEATH AT THE SIGN OF THE ROOKKate Atkinson (Doubleday Books, $30)A murder mystery weekend goes awry in Kate Atkinson’s cleverly chaotic whodunit—our favorite jaded detective, Jackson Brodie, fi nds himself in the middle of art thievery, faded aristocracy, and the hunt for a madman. A delight! (Amanda)FICTIONFICTIONGHIKLMNF GH IK LMNJO

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMBE READY WHEN THE LUCK HAPPENS: A MEMOIRIna Garten (Crown Publishing Group, $34)Ina Garten has charmed us with her cooking, but did you know she once worked in the White House on nuclear policy? Or that she and Jeffrey faced a near-divorce after a six-month separation? In this memoir, Ina opens up about her personal life, offering a rare glimpse beyond the kitchen. (Stephanie)WHAT I ATE IN ONE YEAR (AND RELATED THOUGHTS)Stanley Tucci (Gallery Books, $35)For when you don’t get to go to dinner with Stanley Tucci, but wish you could. This intimate and refl ective foodie diary puts you at the table for all variety of meals and conversation. Mangia! (Amanda)OTTOLENGHI COMFORT: A COOKBOOKYotam Ottolenghi, Helen Goh (Ten Speed Press, $37.99)Ottolenghi delivers once again with this delectable cookbook full of unique, fl avorful, and nourishing recipes that are sure to be a crowd favorite. (Jenna)TASTY TREATSDISAPPOINTING AFFIRMATIONSDave Tarnowski (Chronicle Books, $14.95)I keep a copy of this book on my desk so I can open it at random whenever I need a good laugh. It never disappoints. I often have to explain to coworkers why I am cackling so hard. Try it out and consider buying copies for everyone in your life who should laugh more. (Praveen)INTO THE UNCUT GRASSTrevor Noah, Sabina Hahn (One World, $26)Trevor Noah’s humor and charm permeates every page of this modern fable about the power of discovery and adventure. This is a splendid companion to The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, continuing the tradition of uplifting illustrated books for child and adult alike. (Michael)LITERARY JOURNEYS: MAPPING FICTIONAL TRAVELS ACROSS THE WORLD OF LITERATURE John McMurtrie (Princeton University Press, $29.95)Dive into Literary Journeys for a fun and inspiring ride through the world of stories! This awesome collection takes you through different landscapes of imagination and emotion, and is a great fi t for all book lovers. Each chapter offers fresh perspectives that’ll spark your creativity. Don’t miss out—grab your copy today! (Maddie)THE WOOD AT MIDWINTERSusanna Clarke (Bloomsbury Publishing, $16.99)A gorgeously illustrated edition containing a haunting, exquisite short story. Don’t let the size fool you: I’ve already spent more time thinking about it than it took to read it. The magic in Susanna Clarke’s world is wild, dangerous, and transcendent, even as her writing is light and sardonic. (Lucas)GIFTS WE CAN’T RESISTABCAB CDEFGD EF G

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMBE READY WHEN THE LUCK HAPPENS: A MEMOIRIna Garten (Crown Publishing Group, $34)Ina Garten has charmed us with her cooking, but did you know she once worked in the White House on nuclear policy? Or that she and Jeffrey faced a near-divorce after a six-month separation? In this memoir, Ina opens up about her personal life, offering a rare glimpse beyond the kitchen. (Stephanie)WHAT I ATE IN ONE YEAR (AND RELATED THOUGHTS)Stanley Tucci (Gallery Books, $35)For when you don’t get to go to dinner with Stanley Tucci, but wish you could. This intimate and refl ective foodie diary puts you at the table for all variety of meals and conversation. Mangia! (Amanda)OTTOLENGHI COMFORT: A COOKBOOKYotam Ottolenghi, Helen Goh (Ten Speed Press, $37.99)Ottolenghi delivers once again with this delectable cookbook full of unique, fl avorful, and nourishing recipes that are sure to be a crowd favorite. (Jenna)TASTY TREATSDISAPPOINTING AFFIRMATIONSDave Tarnowski (Chronicle Books, $14.95)I keep a copy of this book on my desk so I can open it at random whenever I need a good laugh. It never disappoints. I often have to explain to coworkers why I am cackling so hard. Try it out and consider buying copies for everyone in your life who should laugh more. (Praveen)INTO THE UNCUT GRASSTrevor Noah, Sabina Hahn (One World, $26)Trevor Noah’s humor and charm permeates every page of this modern fable about the power of discovery and adventure. This is a splendid companion to The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, continuing the tradition of uplifting illustrated books for child and adult alike. (Michael)LITERARY JOURNEYS: MAPPING FICTIONAL TRAVELS ACROSS THE WORLD OF LITERATURE John McMurtrie (Princeton University Press, $29.95)Dive into Literary Journeys for a fun and inspiring ride through the world of stories! This awesome collection takes you through different landscapes of imagination and emotion, and is a great fi t for all book lovers. Each chapter offers fresh perspectives that’ll spark your creativity. Don’t miss out—grab your copy today! (Maddie)THE WOOD AT MIDWINTERSusanna Clarke (Bloomsbury Publishing, $16.99)A gorgeously illustrated edition containing a haunting, exquisite short story. Don’t let the size fool you: I’ve already spent more time thinking about it than it took to read it. The magic in Susanna Clarke’s world is wild, dangerous, and transcendent, even as her writing is light and sardonic. (Lucas)GIFTS WE CAN’T RESISTABCAB CDEFGD EF G

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMTHE DEMON OF UNREST: A SAGA OF HUBRIS, HEARTBREAK, AND HEROISM AT THE DAWN OF THE CIVIL WARErik Larson (Crown Publishing Group, $35)A character-focused examination into the leadup to the Civil War, rich in detail without ever being dry. A must-read for anyone who likes narrative-driven history in the vein of The Wager or Radium Girls. (Scott)KINGMAKER: PAMELA HARRIMAN’S ASTONISHING LIFE OF POWER, SEDUCTION, AND INTRIGUESonia Purnell (Viking, $35)Kingmaker explores the extraordinary life of Pamela Churchill Harriman, a fi gure often dismissed as a mere social climber who used her relationships for political advantage. This meticulously researched and captivating narrative offers a fresh perspective on her remarkable journey, fi lled with glamor, power, and politics. (Stephanie)THE BOOKSHOP: A HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN BOOKSTOREEvan Friss (Viking, $30)Bookstores are a refl ection of the communities they serve. The Bookshop is a well researched and engaging exploration of our country’s history, told through the lens of these beloved institutions. This beautifully crafted book is both an insightful read and a heartfelt love letter to our home away from home. (Stephanie)THE SMALL AND THE MIGHTY: TWELVE UNSUNG AMERICANS WHO CHANGED THE COURSE OF HISTORY, FROM THE FOUNDING TO THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENTSharon McMahon (Thesis, $32)This impactful and timely book embodies the way ordinary Americans create powerful and lasting change. Meet—among others—a teenager who (months before Rosa Parks) refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus, a Japanese immigrant turned WWII soldier turned senator, and the daughter of enslaved parents who reshaped Black education. (Makenzie)FRAMED: ASTONISHING TRUE STORIESOF WRONGFUL CONVICTIONSJohn Grisham, Jim McCloskey (Doubleday Books, $30)Being convicted of a crime one didn’t commit is an unspeakable injustice. Master storyteller John Grisham has joined with Jim McCloskey, the powerhouse champion of righting wrongful convictions, in this fast-paced work shining light on ten true cases. Why these men and women were not only found guilty but also unable to easily be exonerated runs the gamut of reasons: some unintentional, but many—horribly—on purpose. (Carolee)HISTORY SCIENCENEXUS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF INFORMATION NETWORKS FROM THE STONE AGE TO AIYuval Noah Harari (Random House, $35)Harari incorporates history, sociology, politics, and technology to explore artifi cial intelligence and other information systems from many different perspectives. Though in many ways building on his work in Sapiens, Nexus stands on its own as an engaged, timely investigation into a critical topic. (Scott)I HEARD THERE WAS A SECRET CHORD: MUSIC AS MEDICINE Daniel J. Levitin (W.W. Norton & Company, $32.50)I’m thrilled by Daniel Levitin’s latest, a deep exploration into the profound effects music can have on our health, especially regarding body connections and healing. No music experience is required—we all innately have these powers. (Marilyn)HOPE FOR CYNICS: THE SURPRISING SCIENCE OF HUMAN GOODNESSJamil Zaki (Grand Central Publishing, $30)An antidote for our troubling times—this is a dazzling, hopeful inquiry about human nature and kindness and the world we want to build. A life-changing book to give to everyone you love. (Aggie)REVENGE OF THE TIPPING POINT: OVERSTORIES, SUPERSPREADERS, AND THE RISE OF SOCIAL ENGINEERINGMalcolm Gladwell (Little, Brown and Company, $32)Twenty-fi ve years after his initial work on the subject, Malcolm Gladwell revisits the concept of tipping points. An accomplished storyteller, he delves into how and when a social epidemic catches fi re. His many unique stories make one question how we think about these “contagions.” After reading this book, you’ll be armed with plenty of unusual anecdotes, making your holiday conversations with the in-laws lively—ask them, “what do you think?” (Carolee)ABCDEFGHIF G H I

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMTHE DEMON OF UNREST: A SAGA OF HUBRIS, HEARTBREAK, AND HEROISM AT THE DAWN OF THE CIVIL WARErik Larson (Crown Publishing Group, $35)A character-focused examination into the leadup to the Civil War, rich in detail without ever being dry. A must-read for anyone who likes narrative-driven history in the vein of The Wager or Radium Girls. (Scott)KINGMAKER: PAMELA HARRIMAN’S ASTONISHING LIFE OF POWER, SEDUCTION, AND INTRIGUESonia Purnell (Viking, $35)Kingmaker explores the extraordinary life of Pamela Churchill Harriman, a fi gure often dismissed as a mere social climber who used her relationships for political advantage. This meticulously researched and captivating narrative offers a fresh perspective on her remarkable journey, fi lled with glamor, power, and politics. (Stephanie)THE BOOKSHOP: A HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN BOOKSTOREEvan Friss (Viking, $30)Bookstores are a refl ection of the communities they serve. The Bookshop is a well researched and engaging exploration of our country’s history, told through the lens of these beloved institutions. This beautifully crafted book is both an insightful read and a heartfelt love letter to our home away from home. (Stephanie)THE SMALL AND THE MIGHTY: TWELVE UNSUNG AMERICANS WHO CHANGED THE COURSE OF HISTORY, FROM THE FOUNDING TO THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENTSharon McMahon (Thesis, $32)This impactful and timely book embodies the way ordinary Americans create powerful and lasting change. Meet—among others—a teenager who (months before Rosa Parks) refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus, a Japanese immigrant turned WWII soldier turned senator, and the daughter of enslaved parents who reshaped Black education. (Makenzie)FRAMED: ASTONISHING TRUE STORIESOF WRONGFUL CONVICTIONSJohn Grisham, Jim McCloskey (Doubleday Books, $30)Being convicted of a crime one didn’t commit is an unspeakable injustice. Master storyteller John Grisham has joined with Jim McCloskey, the powerhouse champion of righting wrongful convictions, in this fast-paced work shining light on ten true cases. Why these men and women were not only found guilty but also unable to easily be exonerated runs the gamut of reasons: some unintentional, but many—horribly—on purpose. (Carolee)HISTORY SCIENCENEXUS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF INFORMATION NETWORKS FROM THE STONE AGE TO AIYuval Noah Harari (Random House, $35)Harari incorporates history, sociology, politics, and technology to explore artifi cial intelligence and other information systems from many different perspectives. Though in many ways building on his work in Sapiens, Nexus stands on its own as an engaged, timely investigation into a critical topic. (Scott)I HEARD THERE WAS A SECRET CHORD: MUSIC AS MEDICINE Daniel J. Levitin (W.W. Norton & Company, $32.50)I’m thrilled by Daniel Levitin’s latest, a deep exploration into the profound effects music can have on our health, especially regarding body connections and healing. No music experience is required—we all innately have these powers. (Marilyn)HOPE FOR CYNICS: THE SURPRISING SCIENCE OF HUMAN GOODNESSJamil Zaki (Grand Central Publishing, $30)An antidote for our troubling times—this is a dazzling, hopeful inquiry about human nature and kindness and the world we want to build. A life-changing book to give to everyone you love. (Aggie)REVENGE OF THE TIPPING POINT: OVERSTORIES, SUPERSPREADERS, AND THE RISE OF SOCIAL ENGINEERINGMalcolm Gladwell (Little, Brown and Company, $32)Twenty-fi ve years after his initial work on the subject, Malcolm Gladwell revisits the concept of tipping points. An accomplished storyteller, he delves into how and when a social epidemic catches fi re. His many unique stories make one question how we think about these “contagions.” After reading this book, you’ll be armed with plenty of unusual anecdotes, making your holiday conversations with the in-laws lively—ask them, “what do you think?” (Carolee)ABCDEFGHIF G H I

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMWHEN YOU SEE MY MOTHER, ASK HER TO DANCE: POEMSJoan Baez (David R. Godine Publisher, $25.95)Experience the magic of Joan Baez’s memoir, When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance, an intimate collection of poetic refl ections that draws you into her world through dazzling explorations of love, family, and resilience. With heartfelt storytelling and lyrical prose, it’s a must-read for fans and seekers of inspiration. (Maddie)RADICAL CHAPTERS: PACIFIST BOOKSELLER ROY KEPLER AND THE PAPERBACK REVOLUTIONMichael Doyle (Syracuse University Press, $24.95)Radical Chapters traces the remarkable history of Kepler’s, founded by Roy Kepler, a World War II conscientious objector and peace activist. Charged by the energy of the 1960s Free Speech Movement, Kepler’s Books became a hub for counterculture. This inspiring narrative highlights the bookstore’s enduring legacy of resilience and reinvention and its role as a beacon of free expression and community. (Praveen)THE SILVER SNARLING TRUMPET: THE BIRTH OF THE GRATEFUL DEAD—THE LOST MANUSCRIPT OF ROBERT HUNTERRobert Hunter, Dennis McNally (Hachette Books, $32)Before the Grateful Dead, lyricists Robert Hunter and Jerry Garcia began a decades-long bond on the Peninsula, often meeting at Roy Kepler’s bookstore! These uncovered manuscripts offer in poetic prose a vivid account of the band’s early days in coffee shops, on road trips, and sharing unforgettable moments with friends—what a view into the history of an iconic band. (Amelia)THE FRANCHISE: SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: A CURATED HISTORY OF THE NINERSCam Inman (Triumph Books, $28)Whether you’re looking for new info on your favorite players or a comprehensive investigation of the team’s history, Inman’s your guy! With direct access to players, coaches, and league staff, this is one collection that fans of the game won’t want to miss. (Scott)THE BACKYARD BIRD CHRONICLESAmy Tan (Knopf Publishing Group, $35)I can’t imagine a more perfect gift for nature lovers. This true keepsake rekindles our sense of wonder for the beauty and splendor of the natural world. (Aggie)THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREES: A GRAPHIC ADAPTATIONPeter Wohlleben, Fred Bernard, Benjamin Flao (Greystone Books, $35)In this charming graphic novel, Wohllenben shares with us the secret network of the forest and the trees that call it home. Enjoy gorgeous full-color illustrations and learn about how trees communicate—impacting everything from climate to fungal networks—as well as their intimate connection to sustaining life on Earth. (Makenzie)BAY AREA WILDLIFE: AN IRREVERENT GUIDEJeff Miller, Obi Kaufmann (Heyday Books, $35)A quirky and irreverent guide to the Bay Area’s creatures. Stunning artwork by Obi Kaufmann, as well as photos, show off 50+ species. Jeff Miller’s fun facts and lively text lead you on a safari around the bay. (Steve)THE UNIVERSE IN VERSE: 15 PORTALS TO WONDER THROUGH SCIENCE & POETRYMaria Popova, Ofra Amit (Storey Publishing, $22)Whether you prefer science tinged with spirit or poems paired with facts, this collection artfully marries all of the above! Maria Popova has such a lively, multi-layered, and generative approach—her musings, like the best poems, invite us all to question, think, and feel more capaciously, to make space for bewilderment and belonging. What a marvelous gift to warm heart and soul, during the dark winter season and beyond. (Jasmine)LOCAL INTEREST NATUREABCDEFGHABCDEFGH

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMWHEN YOU SEE MY MOTHER, ASK HER TO DANCE: POEMSJoan Baez (David R. Godine Publisher, $25.95)Experience the magic of Joan Baez’s memoir, When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance, an intimate collection of poetic refl ections that draws you into her world through dazzling explorations of love, family, and resilience. With heartfelt storytelling and lyrical prose, it’s a must-read for fans and seekers of inspiration. (Maddie)RADICAL CHAPTERS: PACIFIST BOOKSELLER ROY KEPLER AND THE PAPERBACK REVOLUTIONMichael Doyle (Syracuse University Press, $24.95)Radical Chapters traces the remarkable history of Kepler’s, founded by Roy Kepler, a World War II conscientious objector and peace activist. Charged by the energy of the 1960s Free Speech Movement, Kepler’s Books became a hub for counterculture. This inspiring narrative highlights the bookstore’s enduring legacy of resilience and reinvention and its role as a beacon of free expression and community. (Praveen)THE SILVER SNARLING TRUMPET: THE BIRTH OF THE GRATEFUL DEAD—THE LOST MANUSCRIPT OF ROBERT HUNTERRobert Hunter, Dennis McNally (Hachette Books, $32)Before the Grateful Dead, lyricists Robert Hunter and Jerry Garcia began a decades-long bond on the Peninsula, often meeting at Roy Kepler’s bookstore! These uncovered manuscripts offer in poetic prose a vivid account of the band’s early days in coffee shops, on road trips, and sharing unforgettable moments with friends—what a view into the history of an iconic band. (Amelia)THE FRANCHISE: SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: A CURATED HISTORY OF THE NINERSCam Inman (Triumph Books, $28)Whether you’re looking for new info on your favorite players or a comprehensive investigation of the team’s history, Inman’s your guy! With direct access to players, coaches, and league staff, this is one collection that fans of the game won’t want to miss. (Scott)THE BACKYARD BIRD CHRONICLESAmy Tan (Knopf Publishing Group, $35)I can’t imagine a more perfect gift for nature lovers. This true keepsake rekindles our sense of wonder for the beauty and splendor of the natural world. (Aggie)THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREES: A GRAPHIC ADAPTATIONPeter Wohlleben, Fred Bernard, Benjamin Flao (Greystone Books, $35)In this charming graphic novel, Wohllenben shares with us the secret network of the forest and the trees that call it home. Enjoy gorgeous full-color illustrations and learn about how trees communicate—impacting everything from climate to fungal networks—as well as their intimate connection to sustaining life on Earth. (Makenzie)BAY AREA WILDLIFE: AN IRREVERENT GUIDEJeff Miller, Obi Kaufmann (Heyday Books, $35)A quirky and irreverent guide to the Bay Area’s creatures. Stunning artwork by Obi Kaufmann, as well as photos, show off 50+ species. Jeff Miller’s fun facts and lively text lead you on a safari around the bay. (Steve)THE UNIVERSE IN VERSE: 15 PORTALS TO WONDER THROUGH SCIENCE & POETRYMaria Popova, Ofra Amit (Storey Publishing, $22)Whether you prefer science tinged with spirit or poems paired with facts, this collection artfully marries all of the above! Maria Popova has such a lively, multi-layered, and generative approach—her musings, like the best poems, invite us all to question, think, and feel more capaciously, to make space for bewilderment and belonging. What a marvelous gift to warm heart and soul, during the dark winter season and beyond. (Jasmine)LOCAL INTEREST NATUREABCDEFGHABCDEFGH

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMALFIE EXPLORES A TO Z: A SEEK & FIND ADVENTUREJeff Drew (Random House Books for Young Readers, $21.99)Absolutely Adorable Beautifully Bizarre Cavorting Creatures! A tongue twister and a treasure hunt all in one. A little Fox in Socksplus a little I Spy means there’s so much to see and to say with Alfi e! (Harry)ALL THE BOOKS Hayley Rocco, John Rocco (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99)Sharing is caring, and Piper the chipmunk is about to fi nd out just how magical sharing can be. This adorably illustrated picture book is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike! (Jenna)GOLDEN GATE: BUILDING THE MIGHTY BRIDGE Elizabeth Partridge, Ellen Heck (Chronicle Books, $19.99)Golden Gate combines fun, informative text and lovely illustrations to tell the story of the engineering marvel that has come to defi ne not just San Francisco but this marvelous region we call home. This book is a fresh new take on a cherished part of local history. (Michael)UPROOTED: A MEMOIR ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR FAMILY MOVES BACK Ruth Chan (Roaring Brook Press, $14.99) Ruth moves to Hong Kong when her dad gets a new job. She has to leave all her friends in Toronto. Suddenly she’s having all sorts of new experiences, making new friends, and discovering a whole new life. Maybe she can be happy in Hong Kong after all. (Steve)GAMERVILLE Johnnie Christmas (HarperAlley, $15.99) Fresh air and survival skills are, of course, important…but what about respect and empathy? AND WHAT ABOUT VIDEO GAMES? In this story (and in real life, I fi rmly believe) we can have it all. (Harry)STORIES TOLD THROUGH ARTTHE MOST BORING BOOK EVER Brandon Sanderson, Kazu Kibuishi (Roaring Brook Press, $19.99) Take a seat and prepare to be bored. Or: how about taking a seat and preparing to land on the head of a dragon breathing fi re and dodging strange vehicles and pirates? Fantasy writer Brandon Sanderson and illustrator Kazu Kibuishi team up to reimagine doing math homework in this spectacular picture book. (Heather)IN PRAISE OF MYSTERY Ada Limón, Peter Sís (Norton Young Readers, $18.99) Unlike the poem held in this enchanting picture book, most of us will never travel by spaceship to explore a distant moon. Luckily, we have the awe-inspiring art of Peter Sís to transport us to a space of imagination and wonder. While turning these pages, imagine NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft, engraved with poet laureate Ada Limón’s spare yet powerful words, which sing of the beautiful mystery of sentience and the kinship of living things. Quite simply the most exquisite picture book of the year—a gift all ages will cherish! (Jasmine)EFGABCDABCDEF GSTORIES TOLD THROUGH ART

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMALFIE EXPLORES A TO Z: A SEEK & FIND ADVENTUREJeff Drew (Random House Books for Young Readers, $21.99)Absolutely Adorable Beautifully Bizarre Cavorting Creatures! A tongue twister and a treasure hunt all in one. A little Fox in Socksplus a little I Spy means there’s so much to see and to say with Alfi e! (Harry)ALL THE BOOKS Hayley Rocco, John Rocco (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99)Sharing is caring, and Piper the chipmunk is about to fi nd out just how magical sharing can be. This adorably illustrated picture book is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike! (Jenna)GOLDEN GATE: BUILDING THE MIGHTY BRIDGE Elizabeth Partridge, Ellen Heck (Chronicle Books, $19.99)Golden Gate combines fun, informative text and lovely illustrations to tell the story of the engineering marvel that has come to defi ne not just San Francisco but this marvelous region we call home. This book is a fresh new take on a cherished part of local history. (Michael)UPROOTED: A MEMOIR ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR FAMILY MOVES BACK Ruth Chan (Roaring Brook Press, $14.99) Ruth moves to Hong Kong when her dad gets a new job. She has to leave all her friends in Toronto. Suddenly she’s having all sorts of new experiences, making new friends, and discovering a whole new life. Maybe she can be happy in Hong Kong after all. (Steve)GAMERVILLE Johnnie Christmas (HarperAlley, $15.99) Fresh air and survival skills are, of course, important…but what about respect and empathy? AND WHAT ABOUT VIDEO GAMES? In this story (and in real life, I fi rmly believe) we can have it all. (Harry)STORIES TOLD THROUGH ARTTHE MOST BORING BOOK EVER Brandon Sanderson, Kazu Kibuishi (Roaring Brook Press, $19.99) Take a seat and prepare to be bored. Or: how about taking a seat and preparing to land on the head of a dragon breathing fi re and dodging strange vehicles and pirates? Fantasy writer Brandon Sanderson and illustrator Kazu Kibuishi team up to reimagine doing math homework in this spectacular picture book. (Heather)IN PRAISE OF MYSTERY Ada Limón, Peter Sís (Norton Young Readers, $18.99) Unlike the poem held in this enchanting picture book, most of us will never travel by spaceship to explore a distant moon. Luckily, we have the awe-inspiring art of Peter Sís to transport us to a space of imagination and wonder. While turning these pages, imagine NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft, engraved with poet laureate Ada Limón’s spare yet powerful words, which sing of the beautiful mystery of sentience and the kinship of living things. Quite simply the most exquisite picture book of the year—a gift all ages will cherish! (Jasmine)EFGABCDABCDEF GSTORIES TOLD THROUGH ART

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMTHE BLETCHLEY RIDDLERuta Sepetys, Steve Sheinkin (Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99)Britain prepares for the worst as WWII ramps up. While working as code breakers in Bletchley Park, siblings Jakob and Lizzie must use their combined genius to avoid detection as they track down their mum. With the help of clever friends, they’re a formidable team, but danger is all around them. It’s a grand story. (Marilyn)THE HOTEL BALZAARKate DiCamillo, Júlia Sardà (Candlewick Press, $17.99)No one weaves timeless tales of hope and wonder like the great Kate DiCamillo! This stand-alone volume in her Norendy series conjures Old World magic with a charming and eccentric cast of characters who enliven a strange old hotel, so magnifi cently evoked by illustrator Júlia Sardà. Can a mysterious Countess (and her parrot) help reunite Marta and her missing father? Seven stories over seven days just might lead to the answer! (Jasmine)IMPOSSIBLE CREATURESKatherine Rundell, Ashley MacKenzie (Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99)Rundell’s setting is fantastical, but at its heart, this is a story fi lled with admiration for the natural world, one that looks unfl inchingly at the ways humans can cause great harm to other living things. Impossible Creatures combines a pulsing, action-packed narrative with themes that will gently push young readers to start thinking about diffi cult and timely questions. (Lucas)ETHE SHERLOCK SOCIETYJames Ponti (Aladdin, $18.99)New York Times bestselling author James Ponti has written an exciting start to a new series: siblings Alex and Zoe solve cold cases with their grandfather and two friends, because what better way is there to spend your summer when your last name is “Sherlock”? Funny, and clever, this is a wonderful gift for fans of action and adventure, as well as for any future detectives! (Amelia)THE LAST DRAGON ON MARSScott Reintgen (Aladdin, $18.99)Mars-born Lunar has been captured and hauled into the depths of the Forbidden Zone, facing fi erce kids who are ready for battle and twitching for a fi ght. Left with no other choice, he joins their team. His training is intense and critical to the survival of all on Mars—he will be the Dragon Rider, a job harder than he could ever imagine. Excellent storytelling! (Marilyn)HEIRSabaa Tahir (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, $21.99)Returning to her fantasy roots, Sabaa Tahir takes us on an emotional journey deep into a land populated with unforgettable characters and fi lled with passion, betrayal, and revenge. The fi rst in an epic new series, Heir will enthrall longtime fans and new readers in equal measure. (Donna)THE GRANDEST GAMEJennifer Lynn Barnes (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $19.99)Let the games begin…again! This time, billionaire Avery is the game maker and the stakes are even higher. Just when I thought I knew where it was going, there was another twist. A fl awless page-turner you won’t be able to put down. (Jenna)WHEN THE WORLD TIPS OVERJandy Nelson (Dial Books, $21.99)This kaleidoscopic novel will stay with you long after the last page. It touches on loss, grief, and dysfunction, but never fails to remind us that the ties of friendship and love persevere above all else. The perfect crossover read for teen readers and adults. (Michael)SUNDERWORLD, VOL. I: THE EXTRAORDINARY DISAPPOINTMENTS OF LEOPOLD BERRYRansom Riggs (Dutton Books for Young Readers, $21.99)Leopold—who hates being called Larry—is having visions. He is sure they aren’t real, because of course not. But what if they are real? What if L.A., or Sunder, actually—a place that shouldn’t be real—is populated with all manner of very unusual things? (Steve)CHAPTER BOOKSABCEFGHIHGFBA CYOUNG ADULTI

1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COMGIFT CARDS available in the store and at KEPLERS.COMTHE BLETCHLEY RIDDLERuta Sepetys, Steve Sheinkin (Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99)Britain prepares for the worst as WWII ramps up. While working as code breakers in Bletchley Park, siblings Jakob and Lizzie must use their combined genius to avoid detection as they track down their mum. With the help of clever friends, they’re a formidable team, but danger is all around them. It’s a grand story. (Marilyn)THE HOTEL BALZAARKate DiCamillo, Júlia Sardà (Candlewick Press, $17.99)No one weaves timeless tales of hope and wonder like the great Kate DiCamillo! This stand-alone volume in her Norendy series conjures Old World magic with a charming and eccentric cast of characters who enliven a strange old hotel, so magnifi cently evoked by illustrator Júlia Sardà. Can a mysterious Countess (and her parrot) help reunite Marta and her missing father? Seven stories over seven days just might lead to the answer! (Jasmine)IMPOSSIBLE CREATURESKatherine Rundell, Ashley MacKenzie (Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99)Rundell’s setting is fantastical, but at its heart, this is a story fi lled with admiration for the natural world, one that looks unfl inchingly at the ways humans can cause great harm to other living things. Impossible Creatures combines a pulsing, action-packed narrative with themes that will gently push young readers to start thinking about diffi cult and timely questions. (Lucas)ETHE SHERLOCK SOCIETYJames Ponti (Aladdin, $18.99)New York Times bestselling author James Ponti has written an exciting start to a new series: siblings Alex and Zoe solve cold cases with their grandfather and two friends, because what better way is there to spend your summer when your last name is “Sherlock”? Funny, and clever, this is a wonderful gift for fans of action and adventure, as well as for any future detectives! (Amelia)THE LAST DRAGON ON MARSScott Reintgen (Aladdin, $18.99)Mars-born Lunar has been captured and hauled into the depths of the Forbidden Zone, facing fi erce kids who are ready for battle and twitching for a fi ght. Left with no other choice, he joins their team. His training is intense and critical to the survival of all on Mars—he will be the Dragon Rider, a job harder than he could ever imagine. Excellent storytelling! (Marilyn)HEIRSabaa Tahir (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, $21.99)Returning to her fantasy roots, Sabaa Tahir takes us on an emotional journey deep into a land populated with unforgettable characters and fi lled with passion, betrayal, and revenge. The fi rst in an epic new series, Heir will enthrall longtime fans and new readers in equal measure. (Donna)THE GRANDEST GAMEJennifer Lynn Barnes (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $19.99)Let the games begin…again! This time, billionaire Avery is the game maker and the stakes are even higher. Just when I thought I knew where it was going, there was another twist. A fl awless page-turner you won’t be able to put down. (Jenna)WHEN THE WORLD TIPS OVERJandy Nelson (Dial Books, $21.99)This kaleidoscopic novel will stay with you long after the last page. It touches on loss, grief, and dysfunction, but never fails to remind us that the ties of friendship and love persevere above all else. The perfect crossover read for teen readers and adults. (Michael)SUNDERWORLD, VOL. I: THE EXTRAORDINARY DISAPPOINTMENTS OF LEOPOLD BERRYRansom Riggs (Dutton Books for Young Readers, $21.99)Leopold—who hates being called Larry—is having visions. He is sure they aren’t real, because of course not. But what if they are real? What if L.A., or Sunder, actually—a place that shouldn’t be real—is populated with all manner of very unusual things? (Steve)CHAPTER BOOKSABCEFGHIHGFBA CYOUNG ADULTI

“I love Keplers! I have been coming here for 50 years for comfort, for joy, all the good reads, and all the interesting authors... and the next generation now comes too!”-ANONYMOUS“Everytime I come to Kepler’s, I find something I’m dying to learn about. I owe a lot of my passions to this place.”-ANONYMOUS"Roy Kepler and his staff at his bookstore in Menlo Park allowed us to exist in an intellectual atmosphere with a built-in library." - Robert HunterFrom Silver Snarling Trumpet:JOIN THE LOVE!Kepler’s staff are the heart and soul of our work.Please help us pay living wages by joining our membership program.JOIN OR LEARN MORE AT KEPLERS.COM/MEMBER1010 EL CAMINO REAL #100, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 • 650-324-4321 • KEPLERS.COM