What We’re Reading

Raul:
A Man of Misconceptions by John Glassie

“Athanasius Kircher was the premier 17th century philosopher on quite literally everything. He was famous across Europe, and even worked for the Pope deciphering hieroglyphics- which he knew absolutely nothing about. That didn’t stop him from writing thousands of pages on their meaning. A Man of Misconceptions follows Kircher’s theories, as he invents a world of “science”. Among other things Kircher developed the idea of panspermia. His theories were still widely believed into the 18th century. Glassie weaves an humorous tale of this larger than life character. A true delight.”

A Man of Misconceptions goes on sale November 8,it is now available for Pre-Order.

Mandy:

The Diviners by Libba Bray

“The Diviners is really creepy, it’s a fun departure for Libba. It’s sure to stun and excite not just her fans but fans of the teen fantasy genre across the board. I’m stoked to see her at the Austin Teen Book Festival!”

Be sure to join Libba Bray and Mandy at the Austin Teen Book Festival September 29 from 9:30am to 5pm at the Palmer Events center. The festival is FREE and open to the public!

Stephanya:

Paris Trout by Pete Dexter

“I was in Montana and I wasn’t digging the book I had so I went down to The Book Exchange– this great old used book store, and the guy recommended this. I picked it up and the first paragraph read like a Nick Cave song, so I got it. It’s a masterfully done southern Gothic, and a National Book Award winner.”

Jessica:

We Sinners by Hanna Pylvainen

“We Sinners is the story of the disintegration of a family of 11 struggling with the strict Christianity with which they were raised. The book spans quite a few years, following the children into adulthood. Some choose to marry into the church while others branch off, they all find themselves dissatisfied. Regardless of the life they choose they have trouble relating to others, whether it’s those in the church who’s faith is strong or people outside who don’t understand the world they come from. I’m really enjoying the book, it’s genuinely sad. The characters have amazing authenticity, and it touches on emotions that have made us all at one point or another feel isolated.”
Grace:

Son by Lois Lowry

“Son is the last book in the Giver quartet. In this book we are introduced to Claire. Claire, who is about 16, is assigned to the position of birthing mother for the community, but her first birth doesn’t go well. Without giving too much away, She is faced with previously unknown emotions and is forced to make decisions and break rules others in the community couldn’t fathom. I’m about half way through the book, and so far I love it. It brings me right back to when I read The Giver in 5th grade! I’m really busy, we’re all really busy, but I look forward to the time each night I get to lay in bed and read this book. It’s truly great.”

Join us October 15 at 6PM, when two time Newbery Award winner Lois Lowry will be in store speaking and signing her newest book Son.