Just in time for Halloween! These monsters are not scary, but they are pretty ugly! Who do you think is The Ugliest Monster in the World?
Robin
Ellis, in his new one-volume history skillfully manages the large cast of characters and the diplomatic, political and military aspects to tell a compelling story of the American revolution. Informed by a consensus of current scholarship it is both elegantly written and entertaining.
Dale
Even if you do not agree with me that Tucci's The Big Night is probably the best food movie ever, you will still find this gustatory memoir a delightful, escapist read. Deliciously evocative, laugh-out-loud funny, and even including recipes for some of his favorites, I read this straight through in two sittings - slowing myself down by rereading particularly delectable passages, but eagerly anticipating what still lay in wait for me. Read this, and then watch (or re-watch) that movie.
David
As we enter October, one thing one must know about New England is its autumnal scenery is a sight to behold. Really absorb and appreciate the natural beauty mother nature has to offer with this book--from guiding you to listen for the forest's melodies to offering fun forest adventure ideas for the little ones, "100 Things to do in a Forest" will get you to experience the fall fauna on a whole new level.
Kai
This book is everything I could want in an atmospheric book of witchcraft and haunting. Part fable, part horror story, part cobbled-together myth, it's a treat to read and a treat to hold; the author's gorgeous illustrations add another layer that I'm always wishing for but rarely get with adult fiction. Unlike a lot of New England witch trial narratives, this one doesn't so much concern itself with the Christian god, but borrows heavily from American Indian lore. You should be reading Slewfoot this October.
Meaghan
October is a great month for feeling like you're on the verge of giving up. The edge is there. You can see it. The days are getting shorter and it's a long, long barrel to look down to the solstice, and, frankly, one of these days you're gonna lose it and scream your little head off in public. Ada Limón's The Carrying holds your hand right up to the edge and names all the trees along the way, and whether you scream or you don't, The Carrying will be there. full of dread and hope.
Piera
The Arrival is great for kids (and grown-ups!) whose favorite part of picture books is the illustrations. Packed with delightfully imaginative detail and a masterclass in visual storytelling, The Arrival is a bittersweet (but mostly sweet!) narrative of immigration, loneliness, and making a new home in an alien world.
Arrival
Down Girl distills the most hard-to-understand aspects of feminism, misogyny, and the patriarchy into easier-to-understand terms, brought to enrapturing relevance by real-world, pop culture, and true crime-adjacent case studies that feel more like conversation than philosophy class. Kate Manne writes in a way that tackles tough concepts with ease and style- a must-read for feminists of any wave.
Kate M
The rare book I wanted to re-read the second I finished it. This is one of my all-time favorites.
Caleb
Celebrate October 2nd, Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, with this beautifully illustrated biogaphy about the man whose name is synonymous with teaching peace. We get to know Gandhi through the eyes of his grandson Arun, who learns Gandhi is not only his grandfather, but also one to the world. A book that can teach and be treasured by all!
Kai
