MY LIBRARIAN STACEY – Batavia Public Library

My Librarian Stacey

Once you have read a book you care about, some part of it is always with you.

—Louis L’Amour

Destined to become a librarian? Probably: I cataloged my books—including all umpteen Nancy Drew mysteries—when I was in 4^th grade. These days you’ll find me reading tons of nonfiction, especially the narrative stuff with a storyline that reads like fiction. I’ll read nonfiction about nearly any topic, but books about self-improvement, presidential history, aviation, journalists, popular sociology, adventure, and historic tragic events most often populate my reading list. I also like historical fiction and contemporary fiction, especially the types of books that are discussable for book clubs.

On Stacey's Bookshelf

Above Ground by Clint Smith
Life in Five Senses by Gretchen Rubin
The Removed by Brandon Hobson
Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Stacey's Top 10 Favorite Books

A heartbreaking, haunting book about smokejumpers' deaths in a wildfire in Montana, written in a devastatingly understated style by an author who was nearing the end of his own life.

A lushly detailed, big-hearted, literary novel about family love, this is a big story told in fewer than 300 pages. The story movingly explores the way each character runs-- running for office, running as an athlete, or running away.

In her remarkable diary, Anne Frank chronicled the experience of going into hiding during the Holocaust. Her candor, insight, spirit, and extraordinary writing talent combine to create an unforgettable and intimate account of a life cut tragically short.

The inspiring, heart-wrenching true story of the brilliant and under-appreciated Black women who worked as mathematicians for NASA’s precursor – where they faced segregation while doing work invaluable to the space program.

This witty and engaging novel’s storylines—a charming romantic comedy and a complicated family story—merge when Cornelia falls in love with a debonair man and befriends his daughter.

In a wry, sophisticated style, this triumphant novel tells the story of a witty, urbane Russian count who, when confined to a luxury hotel for political reasons, proceeds to build a beautiful, gracious life.

Wilkerson’s lyrical writing and vivid storytelling evoke the resilience of the Black Americans who moved north during the Great Migration. A richly detailed, poignant account of this significant historical event.

The first mystery in a series in which a young woman meets the retired Sherlock Holmes--and he discovers that her brain is a match for his. With vivid historical detail and fully realized characters, this series is a delight.

Wolfe's sparkling writing brings to life the personalities of the Mercury astronauts--and evokes the spirit of the late 1950s, when the space race was at its peak and the astronauts were viewed as heroic warriors.

With its light tone, charm, and occasional hilarious moments, this novel shines. When Josie, a young mom, begins researching a biography of Jacqueline Kennedy, she discovers surprising parallels to her own life.

Nonfiction That Reads Like Fiction

In this classic true crime story, Capote meticulously describes the murder of a Kansas family. The author's personal relationship with the murderers and his eerie attention to detail ratchet up the creepiness factor.

Bursting with detail, yet fast-paced, this is the inspiring story of the working-class American rowing team that won the gold medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

A dramatic, compelling account of the 1888 freak blizzard that attacked the Great Plains, killing hundreds of people. While the storm's power was remarkable, it is the intimate stories of the people that make this book so moving.

In this fast-moving, nearly unbelievable adventure story, scuba divers find a Nazi submarine off the coast of New Jersey and take great risks to discover its secrets. This book's gripping storytelling will grab you and not let go.

This riveting account of the search for John Wilkes Booth is unexpectedly suspenseful, given that we know the outcome of the chase. Swanson's detailed narrative puts the reader on the scene, amidst the killers, conspirators, cavalry, and detectives.

Published before Nixon left office, this riveting account of the journalistic investigation of Watergate reads like a mystery story. Written in a zippy, fresh, journalistic style, the book still offers an immediacy that is startling.

Born to a Black mother and white father during apartheid in South Africa, Trevor Noah's mere existence was considered illegal. His memoir of an unusual childhood is good-hearted, frank, and imbued with warmth.

This classic account of the sinking of the Titanic remains timeless, gripping, and compulsively readable, thanks to the author's concise and compelling style. If you read only one book about the Titanic, make it this one.

This startlingly honest memoir / biography mash-up tells the complex, surprising story of a gold medalist who fell into homelessness and drugs, then returned (twice!) to Olympic competition. A fascinating portrait of a philosopher / athlete who lays his troubles bare.

The inspiring, vivid, Depression-era true story of an ungainly-looking race horse and the idiosyncratic entourage of humans who helped him become a spectacular winner. Thanks to the author's lively, journalistic style, this page turner reads like great fiction.

Build a Better Life

In this inspiring, powerful book, researcher / storyteller Brown encourages us to be more vulnerable and brave -- and she provides compelling evidence of the benefits.

This short book packs a powerful punch -- delivered oh so gently. Gilbert lovingly provides encouragement and guidance to all who wish to pursue their own creativity.

This fascinating book provides intriguing guidance for hosting meaningful gatherings. Evocative examples and a conversational tone make this book memorable.

In this friendly, accessible book, the preeminent expert on positive psychology describes the elements of well-being. More than just feeling happy, well-being is also about loving and being loved, serving something bigger than yourself, and setting and achieving goals.

Helpful, practical advice on how to achieve flow -- becoming so involved with what you're doing that you lose track of time. This book can change the way you think about the way you approach both work and leisure.

If you're interested in increasing your productivity, read this book! Written by the topic's best-known expert, this how-to guide provides helpful, realistic tips that will make you more efficient, effective, and relaxed.

Brimming with enthusiasm, this book provides a customizable approach to help you form the habits you choose, using methods based on your personality.

Bright, quick, and easy to read, this timeless classic provides useful tips on how to connect with people.

While some books motivate us to tackle a single aspect of our lives, this in-depth guide addresses life as a whole -- and it challenges us to act in accordance with our beliefs about what is most important. Thought-provoking and possibly revolutionary.

Whether you're deciding what to be when you grow up or fine-tuning any aspect of a mostly fulfilling life, this practical and inspiring approach provides the tools to create and test prototypes to design your life forward.

This cheerful, insightful book is a delightful blend of memoir and self-help guide. Honest and open, Rubin's personal account is rich with practical, well-researched happiness facts, illustrated by her own experiences.

Amazing Audiobooks

When Kirsten's theatrical troupe crosses paths with a dangerous prophet, members of their troupe begin to disappear. In this post-global-pandemic dystopian novel, multiple perspectives and lush writing create a moving tale of how art can lead humans in opposite directions.

Starr, a teen girl, tells the story in this powerful young adult novel, which interweaves race, class, Black Lives Matter, and belonging. The audiobook narrator's performance captures Starr's impassioned, confused, insightful response in the aftermath of a traumatic event.

Skillfully narrated, this complex, warm, modern, literary novel features a large cast of characters (a chef, a governor, a bookstore owner, a restaurant owner, and their loved ones), multiple viewpoints, and interwoven storylines.

In a simple yet gorgeous style, Ollestad relives the mountainside plane crash he survived at age 11, in which his father was killed. A remarkable memoir of survival, and a memorable father-son narrative, read by the author with pitch-perfect tone.

A hushed, moving, occasionally melancholy novel about two long-time neighbors--a widow and a widower--who become close friends and astonish the residents of their small Western town. A short, understated novel that packs an emotional punch.

In this rollicking post-apocalyptic story, young Wade-- a classic underdog--engagingly describes his competition in a high-stakes virtual reality game. Spirited, quirky, fast-paced, and bursting with 1980s pop culture references, this book blends science fiction, humor, and adventure.

Slyly and elegantly narrated by Death itself, this haunting novel, set in Germany during WWII, is a moving, warm-hearted story about a young book lover whose parents shelter a young Jewish man.

In this somber, heartfelt novel, an elderly Iowa minister in the 1950s writes to the young son he will never see grow to adulthood. Lovingly narrated, this quiet story is filled with longing, hope, pain, and fatherly love.

Australia has an enormous number of things which can kill you: crocodiles, sharks, poisonous snakes, caterpillars and attack seashells (!), devastating heat, underwater currents, and much more. And never has it been funnier. G'day, mate!

Rich with bone-dry humor and pitch-perfect dialogue--perfectly narrated in a wry tone-- this rip-roaring Western / mystery features well-drawn characters and a plot that'll grab you. 1930s gangsters and law officers tear around dustbowl Oklahoma, hurling one-liners.

Tina Fey narrates her exuberant memoir with humor and panache. Warm-hearted, comical, and wonderfully entertaining, this book is filled with self-deprecating stories from her nerdy childhood through her adult years as a comedian.

Characters to Care About

In this lyrical historical novel, Wash Black escapes slavery, develops his talents, and travels the world – but the most compelling story is within Wash himself, as he deals with racism and betrayal. Evocative, somber, and hopeful.

With self-deprecating humor and cartoon drawings, Junior narrates the story of attending high school away from his Spokane reservation. An underdog facing huge problems (death, an alcoholic father, poverty), Junior is resilient, quietly heroic, and endearing.

In this riveting, thought-provoking time travel novel, a Black woman living in the 1970s is transported into slavery in the early 1800s. An intense story rife with dread, uncertainty, and courage.

Narrated by one of the most likeable 14-year-old boys in fiction, this nostalgic story is set in Montana ranch country during the Great Depression. In a witty, engaging voice, young McCaskill describes his growing awareness of his loving family's complexities.

In the days after the patriarch's death, a hilariously dysfunctional family endures one another's company amidst complicated romantic situations. The narrator's dry sense of humor sets this book apart.

An absorbing, layered story about twin sisters who are separated when one passes as white, while the other identifies as Black. A great choice for book clubs, this novel is a complex story about loss, life decisions, and identity.

A charming, quirky, and heartwarming story about the surprising effects of a friendship between a Guinness Records-obsessed 11 year old boy and a lively 104 year old woman. Delightful, sad, and uplifting.

A warm, gently funny story about three African American women and the long-lasting friendship that carries them through tough challenges. Witty, a little bit quirky, and ultimately as comforting as the food at Earl's diner.

In this gentle story of quiet miracles, a young man is torn from his warm, idiosyncratic family by a violent act. Narrated by his younger brother, this novel is subdued, transcendent, and worthy of discussion.

In this touching historical novel, a widower befriends the tough little girl he’s transporting to her family after her release by the Kiowa. For readers who enjoy well-chosen words, powerful stories, and reading about the intersection of cultures.

In this emotionally charged story of cross-cultural adoption and complicated lives, a woman is deported from America to China, leaving behind an adolescent son who never knew what happened to his mother.

A heartwarming and quirky novel about found family, finding one’s place in the world, and taking care of unusual young ones. Even if you don’t like fantasy novels, this character-driven story will win you over.

Memorable Memoirs

In this lively and powerful memoir, comedian and activist Baratunde Thurston shares his “over thirty years’ experience being black.” He intersperses his story with questions he asks a panel of Black people, whose responses are surprising, sad, funny, and frank.

In this lyrical, poignant workplace memoir, a plant scientist expresses her passion about her work and her lab. When writing about plants, often she's also writing about life, in a way that is both smart and wise.

In her inspiring memoir, Good Morning America host and two-time cancer survivor Robin Roberts writes movingly about living a life of grace, strength, and gratitude—even when facing illness.

In this evocative, nostalgic memoir, Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor lovingly describes her rugged childhood on her family's large Arizona ranch.

With warmth and candor, Laskas tells the romantic, often humorous, story of a mid-life couple preparing for their wedding, city folk feeling like fish out of water as they learn country ways, and people facing change with quiet courage.

With a warm, nostalgic tone, Lucy Knisley cheerfully depicts her growing-up years and her delight with both farm-fresh produce and junk food in this charming graphic novel.

If you like writing that's clever, wickedly funny, and to the point, Fennelly's memoir, told in bite-sized pieces, is just the ticket.

In this lyrical memoir about race and class, Sarah M. Broom’s phrasing is often poetic, sometimes blunt, always original. Her unique voice speaks from these pages, where she evokes life in the New Orleans shotgun house where she grew up.

In this rollicking true adventure story of traveling the Oregon Trail via covered wagon in the 21st century, a mismatched pair of brothers relive the past. For history enthusiasts who enjoy self-deprecating humor.

A bittersweet, heartbreaking story of family love, beautifully told by a father whose adult daughter died suddenly, leaving behind three young children.

House & Home

In this gorgeous, browsable coffee table book bursting with color photos, Joanna Gaines (of Fixer Upper fame) offers a unique and practical approach to blending home design styles to make your home truly your own.

One of my favorites. Warnick interweaves her personal experience of becoming a joyfully engaged resident of her new city with practical tips on becoming a tourist in your own town, the joys of walkability, and other techniques for fully loving where you live.

This beautiful and inspiring book encourages readers to create a comfortable home by focusing on people rather than objects. This book’s subtitle—“it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful”—is downright liberating.

A book about decluttering hit the bestseller list -- why? This minimalist guide is short, sunny, and inspiring, and has prompted many readers to keep only the objects that bring them joy.

In this pleasant and uplifting memoir, Rubin sets monthly goals for improving domestic happiness – everything from giving warm greetings to suffering for 15 minutes to gain momentum on a project. Read this inspiring book to customize your own domestic bliss.

Finally: a book that helped me love winter. With an emphasis on creating a cozy, happy home environment to contrast with inhospitable weather, the Danish concept of “hygge” can help us welcome those long winter nights. Think: fireplace, soup, chocolate, friends!

In this warm, evocative book of personal essays, novelist Ann Hood writes about home life and the food memories she most treasures. Cozy, comforting, and full of recipes.

Compulsively readable, this book beautifully blends genres: memoir + cookbook + gorgeous food photos + poetic vignettes. An intimate, domestic narrative by the former editor of Gourmet magazine, who recovered from job loss by cooking and connecting with friends.

Quick, browse-able, and approachable, this book offers bite-sized tips to suit different styles of decluttering and organizing a home. Even if you’re already a decluttering diehard, there’s inspiration in these pages.

In this fresh, absorbing narrative, Rosenstrach gives an inside look at her family’s approach to weeknight meal prep. In an approachable style, she offers encouragement and truly easy (and terrific) recipes for making dinner even after a day at work.

Short Books, Big Stories

If you like inventive stories with a narrator who keeps upping the suspense, check out this novel about a well-respected nurse whose sister has a tendency to kill her boyfriends. Grisly topic, light tone—bursting with grim humor.

In this riveting, quietly dramatic page turner, a boy watches his father arrest his brother for the abuse of Native American women. Spare, haunting, and powerful.

Subtle, impressionistic character portraits reveal the inner life of each family member in this nuanced story about three generations of an African American family. This lyrical novel’s multiple perspectives invite the reader to knit together the family’s story.

Who wouldn’t want to be a nanny to children who spontaneously combust? In this irreverent, engaging story, an unconventional caregiver helps hide the special gifts of her young charges. Wry and original, with a touch of magical realism.

A young girl’s disappearance is at the center of this somber, haunting novel about family and small town life in Haiti. A great choice for readers who enjoy interwoven stories, multiple viewpoints, and lyrical literary fiction.

If you wonder how a fast-paced adventure novel could be lyrical and introspective, pick up this book. Things go desperately wrong for two young men on a remote canoe trip in this adrenaline-laced story of friendship.

In this moving and lyrical novel, a young Ojibway man’s hockey talent carried him away from a residential school. But years later, he still contends with his troubled past. A heart-wrenching and haunting story of survival.

In this twisty, suspenseful espionage thriller, a former couple meets for dinner to discuss their past years as spies. As each person tells their version of events, you’ll witness power plays and lies—and wonder who you can trust.

This 119-page novel offers a memorable visit to the West. In a swift-moving tale filled with plainspoken people, tension, and bursts of violence, a hero and anti-hero team up against a cattle driver who threatens their way of life.

Set in the midst of the Atlanta child murders, this compelling and poignant story is told through multiple viewpoints. With pitch-perfect dialogue and insight into the minds of children, this novel is both thoughtful and suspenseful.

Favorites of 2021

Creatively told through an oral history structure, this engaging novel tells the story of a Black singer and her partner in the 1970s—and gradually reveals long-held secrets.

The compelling true story of a stunningly talented codebreaker during WWI and WWII, who began her work at Fabyan’s Riverbank lab.

Menacing, character-driven, evocative, and oh-so-discussable… A story of paying the price for violating Native customs. If your book club can handle horror, this novel’s a great choice.

Bursting with lighthearted wisdom and outrageous storytelling, this self-improvement / celebrity memoir mash-up is creative and inspiring and completely quirky. Recommendation: listen to the audiobook—he narrates it himself and it’s a dazzling performance.

If you like your feel-good books also full of life’s hard truths, this novel might be for you. A story about a rock star going home again, small Midwestern towns, and lifelong male friendship.

Witty, heartwarming, and funny. A feel-good story about family, loss, and transformation.

In her lovely, candid, and poetic memoir, Joy Harjo—the first Native American named U.S. Poet Laureate—describes her painful childhood and challenging young adult years.

Best known as a novelist, Ann Patchett is also a writer of sparkling personal essays. Warm, lyrical, and full of heart, these essays tell the stories of deep friendship, the love of dogs, and the life of a writer.

Moving, thoughtful, and thought-provoking, this nonfiction narrative blends history, sociology, and travel memoir to explore how various historical sites interpret the history of slavery.

Books I've Re-read

In this captivating literary novel about race and power dynamics, a video goes viral when a babysitter is unjustly accused of kidnapping.

A complex, disturbing novel about a politician and his wife escaping to the woods after a horrific secret from his past is uncovered. The politician—and lifelong magician—is the chief suspect when his wife disappears.

A somber, lyrical novel about a man who honors his family’s Ojibwe traditions by giving his young son to his neighbors after accidentally killing their child in a hunting accident.

When the Sisters brothers—professional hit men in the old West—agree to do “one last job,” things go horribly awry. Funny and irreverent and shortlisted for the Booker Prize. (How often does *that* happen with a Western?)

Against a backdrop of New England resort life, Natalie begins a career as a chef—and finds romance in an unlikely place. For readers who enjoy witty romantic comedies accompanied by wry social commentary.

In this subdued, introspective novel, Stevens—the consummate butler for all his adult life—reflects on his years of unfailing service to Lord Darlington – and wonders at his ability to look past the terrible truth about the man he served.

This classic account of the sinking of the Titanic remains one of the most popular books about the disaster. Lord’s evocative, concise storytelling gives an immediacy of the events of that desperate night over 100 years ago.

In this witty, timeless comedy of manners, the charming Bennet sisters seek the perfect husband. A sprightly commentary on society and marriage in Regency England.

One of my favorite first lines ever: “I write this sitting in the kitchen sink.” A delightful teenage girl narrates this romantic comedy about finding love, her quirky family, and living in a decrepit English castle.

Inspiring and moving, John Lewis’s memoir traces his experiences in the Civil Rights Movement. The graphic novel format powerfully conveys the pain, triumph, and ongoing work.

A Gothic modern classic featuring an unnamed narrator who plays second fiddle to her brooding husband’s deceased first wife, Rebecca. Atmospheric and unsettling—with a doozy of a plot twist

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