Staff Picks
Looking for an excellent fantasy novel for a swashbuckling friend in your life? You've found it.
- Connor
You will need to buy two of these: one for a gift, and one for yourself. These stunning black-and-white photographs of almost every contemporary writer you could think of, photographed not only in portraiture but in their libraries and homes, with their families and friends and dogs, and in the magnificent outdoors. We know these authors through their books, but these images seem to bring us into their inner lives and selves in a way that the written word alone could never capture.
- David
Distance and language are no barriers to the very special bond between grandparent and grandchild in this sweet story of Jyoti and her grandmother. Winner of the Massachusetts Book Award this year.
- Ellen
With beautiful illustrations and interactive pop-ups, this book is about as magical as it gets. I remember getting a book like this for Christmas as a kid, and I wouldn’t open another gift for hours! This book is the perfect gift for any kid, or adult, who loves to keep magic alive all year!
- Emma
This is the type of book that you give to a child and then 20 years later they spend a good chunk of time searching for it because all they remember about it is the beautiful illustrations and the fact that it was a staple in their reading every holiday season. (Am I saying this from personal experience? Maybe). Which is to say: Give any child in your life a gift for now AND for later!
This is pretty cool.
- Engel
The newest installment in this beautiful, educational series does not disappoint. It's gorgeous inside and out and the graphic design is sophisticated enough to have appeal for older audiences as well.
- Stacey
Savor every fact, myth, and legend in this delicious book!
- Robin
Kids participate in the storytelling as they correct grandpas goofy fairy tale gaffes. Perfect for the grandfriend in your life.
- Wendy
Following four best friends and their bizarre baking adventures, The Cupcake Diaries is a sweet addition to any young reader's library. Each book features an adventure through the plights of middle school and running a, you guessed it, cupcake business! These books got me hooked onto reading as a kid. (And in case you're worried, no, I never got cavities from consuming this scrumptious series!)
- Cindy
Drawing on both Shakespeare’s comedies and tragedies, this is a fun way to introduce your children to the bard. Alice Lindstrom's collage-style illustrations really bring the stories to life.
- James
Charming tales for you and your loved ones that will always have a place in your home and heart. Check out its sister as well - The Squirrel's Birthday and Other Parties (also a 12/23 staff pick!).
- Jane
If the squirrel left a note for YOU in your house, on your wall, it would most likely say the following: "Don't forget to red The Squirrel's Birthday (and Other Parties), and also--will you be attending the celebration?" A sweet, heartwarming read. (Check out the sister book Letters to Anyone and Everyone - also a 12/23 staff pick!).
- Sophie
Beautifully illustrated and heartwarmingly tender, this collection of the complete Tea Dragon Society is the perfect gift for someone who needs a pick me up, loves tea lore, or just enjoys the sweet things in life.
- Jen
Battle enemies like a swordfighting chicken or Viscountess Jellyroll! Become a superpowered high schooler with your friends! The perfect gift for someone interested in Dungeons & Dragons, regardless of experience level. Cozy, spooky, lighthearted, story-heavy, and combat-light, appropriate for middle schoolers to adults.
- Murphy