Title: The Thirteenth Child
Author: Patricia C. Wrede
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
In a world where numbers hold a lot of magic in and of themselves, where magic tumbles forth from the edges of all of the known civilization, and where society itself has declared some children extra special and powerful from birth, but has declared this young to be such bad luck that even her own relatives often don't want her around, Eff has been conditioned to shrink into the background of her own life. However, when she discovers her own magical talents may rival her talented, lauded brother (who is the seventh son of a seventh son!) but may also lie in a different realm of magic altogether, Eff can no longer be ignored and cast aside by anyone, least of all herself!
- Katrina
Check out The Thirteenth Child @ the library!
Title: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking
Author: Susan Cain
Genre: General Non-Fiction
Living in a society that clearly promotes being outgoing and extroverted, it can be hard for us to see the value of an introverted nature. Susan Cain and her extensively researched book make a point to demonstrate that though there are differences between the two styles, there isn't necessarily a better one to be. Knowing which you are, and yes, you can have elements of both, can help you to a better, healthier life and more fulfilled relationships with others.
I appreciated the many accessible examples provided in this book and the occasional self-tests to help determine where I fell on the spectrum of introversion-extroversion. Additionally, this book helped me comprehend the basis for various sensitivities and the reasons for some behaviors. I think this is a good book for anyone looking to better understand themselves and those around them.
- Sarah R.
Check out Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking @ the library!
Title: Eye of the World
Author: Robert Jordan
Genre: Fantasy
The novel began a bit slow but as the story progressed I became more enthralled with the story and characters. The author captures the voice of each character and their unique personalities provide a variety of characters to be drawn to. The story follows the classic structure of a Hero's Journey that fantasy lovers are accustomed to (LOTR/Star Wars). Events arise that force the main character to leave his hometown. Before embarking on his journey his two friends and love interest join him. Having never left their small town they jump at a chance to go explore the world. Little do they know how much danger awaits them as fate pulls them towards their destinies. This is the first of a 14 book series, it is quite a commitment but definitely worth your time if you like fantasy.
- Gina
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Title: The Turn of the Key
Author: Ruth Ware
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense
A daycare employee reads an ad for a live-in nanny position for a family in the remote Heatherbrae House. The pay is great and the opportunity looks too good to pass up. She's on guard when she's asked about being superstitious, but discounts the previous nannies' abrupt departures. She is offered the job and accepts.
When the Elincourts hire Rowan Caine to take care of their four girls, they never expected to wind up with three. Now the nanny is applying to the best local legal defense in Scotland to hear her out, but she has to convince Mr. Wrexham to take her case via letters from jail.
Hear the tale from the nanny's perspective. Would you believe her? Read The Turn of the Key to find out.
I liked the building of suspense and that it had enough twists to keep one guessing.
It also made me rethink exactly how "smart" I want my house to be.
- Sarah R.
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Title: Star-Crossed
Author: Minnie Darke
Genre: Women's Fiction
Star-Crossed is a cute tale that revolves around horoscopes. Main character Justine is a journalist who comes across a childhood friend named Nick. She is tasked with writing the horoscope, which Nick avidly reads. Soon enough she's composing horoscopes when she shouldn't be to hilarious and disastrous results. This book is written in a unique way, entwining characters with both large and small storylines. It's a nice light read, so if you're looking for a book to cozy up inside with over the winter, check this one out!
- Jamie
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