Mirrors and Windows
When you read a book that doesn’t have a character that reflects you, but is more about viewing others and different experiences, that is a window book — and they are just as important.
Lexi, Lily, and the Octopus
Steven Rowley’s debut novel Lily and the Octopus is about the bond between man and dog, between friends, and also lovers. It follows frustrated writer and chronic first-dater Ted and his dog, best friend ever and constant companion and confidant Lily, a 12-year-old dachshund who develops a brain tumor. Yes, it’s sad, and yes, it will probably make you cry.
Blue is the [Most Beautiful] Color
Illustration, yet another way books make you feel things. Big things like happiness, sadness, anger and hope. Julie Maroh’s graphic novel, Blue is the Warmest Color makes you feel all that and more.
Listening to Veterans’ Stories
A few weeks ago, local scholar Todd DePastino visited the West Pittsburgh History Club to give a presentation of his work with local veterans. Not simply an academic, Todd’s work with veterans extends outside the tower through the Veteran’s Breakfast Club, a group he co-founded.
After Orlando: A Book List
The world can be an ugly place. We are reminded of just how ugly with tragedies like the mass shooting in Orlando that left 50 people dead and more wounded. Hopefully this book list will help you heal.
Celebrate Good Times
With so many things to do around town this week–including Pittsburgh Pride!–it will be hard to browse for books, so here are three LGBTQ-friendly YA picks for your Summer Reading list.
Should We Have the Right to Die?
All My Puny Sorrows is a thought-provoking book that explores family relationships, suicide and whether or not we should be able to choose the manner of our own deaths.
A City Full of Mystery
Journey to the fictional city of Newford, full of magic and the unexplained. Award winning fantasy author Charles de Lint invites you to believe in the extraordinary.
Short Stories, Big Impact
Sherrie Flick’s new collection of flash fiction might come in teeny tiny packages, but these stories pack a punch.
Autobiography or Memoir?
What’s the difference between autobiographies and memoirs? Are they essentially the same genre? Check out my classifications on a few of these books and share your own favorites!