The Book Corner: August selections from the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library

Back-to-school is right around the corner for many students, so the focus is on books related to school, kids, and parents. There are books for every interest, from an emotional middle grade graphic novel and a hands-on children’s activity book, to a thriller about the power of discovering your stolen history and the story of a real life 9-year-old DJ. Dads may appreciate a book about the governing laws of fatherhood, covering a vast array of situations including fashion, tech, and being a dad in public. And for parents seeking guidance about how to help teens navigate the complex journey to adulthood, there’s a book for that, too.. For some lighthearted fun, there’s an entertaining enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy about two high school nemeses who share a house together their first year of college.

For Teens

“Unnecessary Drama” by Nina Kenwood. An entertaining enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy about an 18-year-old perfectionist moving out on her own and embarking on her first year of college, only to find out that her high school nemesis is one of her new housemates. Terse conversations turn into lively banter and their budding spark turns into something more as college hijinks bring them closer together.

“Warrior Girl Unearthed” by #1 New York Times bestselling author, Angeline Boulley. A high-stakes young adult thriller about the power of discovering your stolen history.

For Kids

“I am DJ Michelle” by Michelle Rasul and Saida Rasul. An extraordinary true story of how a nine-year-old DJ from Dubai became an international superstar as told in her own words with a foreword by Wyclef Jean. The book has colorful photographs, text messages from friends, fans, and celebrities; and even a school assignment.

“How to Stay Invisible” by Maggie C. Rudd. A heartfelt, high-stakes middle-grade story of a young boy and his dog on a journey of survival that speaks to friendship, adventure, and the everyday wonders of nature.

“The Lost Library” by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass. When a mysterious Little Free Library (guarded by a large orange cat) appears overnight in the small town of Martinville, 11-year-old Evan plucks two weathered books from its shelves, never suspecting that his life is about to change. Follow Evan as he learns how to own your truth, choose the life you want, and the power of a good book.

“A Sky of Paper Stars” by Susie Yi. A heartrending middle-grade graphic novel about a girl's ill-fated wish to fit in that follows a captivating journey across questions of identity, the meaning of family, and the ability for love to bridge generations.

For Adults

“The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents” by New York Times bestselling author Lisa Damour. Clear, research-informed explanations alongside illuminating, real life examples provide parents with concrete, practical information needed to steady their teens through the bumpy yet transformational journey into adulthood.

“Dad Law” by Ally Probst and Joel Willis. The unwritten rules of "Dadhood" have been written for fathers, both old and new alike, in this book that collects all of the governing laws of fatherhood.

Library Director Cathleen Sulli’s picks:

“Life Skills for Kids: How to Cook, Clean, Make Friends, Handle Emergencies, Set Goals, Make Good Decisions, and Everything in Between” by Karen Harris. A down-to-earth book for parents and children to read together to help build independence in children. Topics include handling emergencies, self-regulation, cooking, and more.

“The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud in the Age of Distraction” by Meghan Cox Gurdon. Unplug and take a break from your busy life by reading aloud.

“Best Lunch Box Ever” by Katie Sullivan Morford. What do you pack for lunch? The author offers a variety of great lunch options such as Pesto Pita Pizza, Oodles of Sesame Noodles, and Peanut Butter Pinwheels.

Children’s Librarian Jen Gileno’s picks:

“Sorry, Grown-Ups You Can't Go to School” by local author Christina Geist. A very funny, easy to read, and absorbing book about the fun of an upcoming school year.

“When Things Aren't Going Right Go Left” by Marc Colagiovanni. A book on how to let go of worries, doubts, and fears in a funny, relatable way.

“The Day You Begin” by Jaqueline Woodson. This book deals with how we feel and act when we are different from others.

August happenings at the library:

Conversation with Local Gardeners

Meets August 12; 10:00 a.m.-11:00a.m.

Bring your questions and ideas to this informal group of local expert garden enthusiasts. Please check the library web page to see if it meets by Zoom or in person.

History Book Group

Meets August 8; 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Discussion of the “Empress Dowager Cixi: The Concubine who Launched Modern China” by Jung Chang.