When Morning Comes

 Raina, Arushi. When Morning Comes. 2017. 222p. ISBN 9781896580692. 

In apartheid-era South Africa, Zanele secretly plots against the government, keeping her activities hidden from the police, her mother, and her sister. Her best friend, Thabo, a schoolboy who has turned to gang life, suspects her involvement in something clandestine, even as he grapples with his own troubles stemming from a botched deal and powerful enemies. Meanwhile, across the bridge in the affluent white suburbs, Jack, who looks forward to escaping his father's overbearing presence, plans to spend his final days in Johannesburg driving his Mustang. But all of that changes when he encounters Meena, a girl from the simmering black township of Soweto, whose unforgettable face captures his attention.

Meena, working in her father's shop, discovers a packet of banned pamphlets, which leads her into a series of chance encounters: with the mysterious black girl Zanele, who holds a secret, the dangerous gangster, Thabo, with expensive tastes, and the engaging white boy, Jack, with the battered red car. These seemingly random meetings set in motion a chain of events, including a failed plot, a murdered teacher, and the emergence of a secret student movement that has spread across the township, culminating in a powerful student uprising.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26. 2020. 282p. ISBN 9781974718467. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following his trip back in time, which concluded in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25, Rin returns to find himself aboard the damaged Illuminati airship, Dominus Liminis, armed with the devastating truth about his and his brother's origins. He confronts Yukio, who is also on the airship, as their father, Satan, attempts to manipulate them both further into his control. Rin's primary goal is to convince Yukio to return to the Knights of the True Cross.

However, Yukio is unyielding, seemingly determined to provoke Rin into killing him. As the Dominus Liminis descends in flames, the confrontation between the brothers intensifies, transforming into a desperate battle for Yukio's very soul. The outcome of this fiery clash will determine not only their individual fates but also the ongoing struggle against Satan's influence.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 27.

Vanya and the Wild Hunt

Mandanna, Sangu. Vanya and the Wild Hunt. Book 1 of the Vanya series. 2025. 288p. ISBN 9781250899835.

Eleven-year-old Vanya Vallen has always felt like an outsider, grappling with her British-Indian identity in a predominantly white English town. Her parents hide their secretive pasts. And to compound it all, her ADHD scatter her attention. Adding to her unique circumstances, Vanya possesses the extraordinary ability to converse with books, and more remarkably, the books communicate back to her. 

Vanya's life takes a dramatic turn when a monstrous creature, previously believed to exist only in fairytales, attacks her family, revealing her parents' hidden lives and the pervasive presence of other fantastical beasts.

Whisked away to Auramere, an enchanted library and school, Vanya finds herself among archwitches and archivists, embracing an unexpected, exciting, and wonderful new existence. However, even in this magical sanctuary, danger lurks. The mysterious and formidable Wild Hunt is on the loose, threatening Auramere itself. Vanya must tap into all her creativity and courage to unmask the Hunt's leader and thwart their destructive plans, fighting to protect the only place where she has ever truly felt a sense of belonging.

A History of the Muslim World: From Its Origins to the Dawn of Modernity

Cook, Michael A. A History of the Muslim World: From Its Origins to the Dawn of Modernity. 2024. 960p. ISBN 9780691236575.

Islam first spread to the sandy shores of Arabia, propelled by a vision of peace. Through the force of arms and moral and religious convictions, Islam expanded, reaching the Atlantic and most of Spain in the west, and to what became Indonesia in the east. Currently the second most observed religion, Islam is gaining in adherents and is projected to overtake Christianity in a few decades. But to most readers, Islam is an uncomfortable foreign religion.

A History of the Muslim World offers a comprehensive and authentic account of the Muslim world's evolution from the Prophet Muḥammad's era to the cusp of modernity. Cook meticulously details and clarifies the pivotal events, influential figures, conflicts, and cultural intersections that have profoundly shaped this civilization. It guides readers through the origins of Islam, the spectacular rise and eventual fragmentation of the Caliphate—an empire that fostered a new civilization—and extends its narrative to the present day through an insightful epilogue.

The book begins by setting the stage in the Middle East of late antiquity, portraying the emergence of Islam as a transformative "black swan event" in history. It then expands to cover the diverse histories of all major regions within the Muslim world, providing a broad account of the significant military, political, and cultural developments that accompanied Islam's spread from the Middle East to the Atlantic and Pacific shores. Crucially, the narrative is enriched by numerous quotations from primary sources, offering readers direct access to insightful voices from the Muslim past.

The Secret Library

Magoon, Kekla. The Secret Library. 2024. 384p. ISBN 9781536230888.

Since her grandpa's death, eleven-and-a-half-year-old Dally's life has become dull and restricted, with her exacting single mother already preparing her to take over the family business. Craving adventure, Dally uncovers a mysterious envelope her grandpa had left for her, containing a map. This map leads her to an ancient vault—a library of secrets where each book acts as a portal to a specific moment in time. Dally eagerly "checks out" various adventures, including an exhilarating outing with pirates, which soon leads her to delve into her family's hidden history.

As Dally escapes the demands of her present life by visiting this magical library daily, she discovers that the library itself harbors its own secrets and intentions, which could shape her future as profoundly as her mother's meticulous plans. This masterful middle-grade fantasy skillfully blends mystery and adventure, exploring a biracial child's journey to understand her identity alongside the legacy of the past. The narrative is praised for its crackling prose, playful plot twists, and timeless themes, offering a satisfying read that revolves around Dally's pivotal choice between her pre-ordained path and the allure of the unknown.

Poor Girls

Whitfield, Clare. Poor Girls. 2025. 416p. ISBN 9781837930869.

It is 1922 in London. Twenty-year-old Eleanor Mackridge chafes against the limited future society has prescribed for her: serving the upper classes or a conventional marriage. Having experienced the independence and better pay of working in a munitions factory during the war, Eleanor rejects the post-war societal push to put women back "in their place." Her encounter with a member of the infamous female-led Forty Elephants gang opens her eyes to a different path, one of boldness, luxury, and taking what she desires, embodying the belief that men will only let you down. Diamonds are forever.

Eleanor transforms into "Nell" and joins a cell of the Forty Elephants, embracing a life of sophisticated thievery alongside Effie, Lily, and Charlie. Poor Girls vividly exposes the criminal underbelly of 1920s London, offering not a morality tale but an adventure for the willingly wicked."Through richly drawn, albeit fictionalized, characters, the book provides an authentic portrayal of how this real-life gang operated, shedding light on the social and economic constraints faced by women in the 1920s and celebrating the resilience, wit, and complex nature of women who defied societal expectations.

Economics in America: : An Immigrant Economist Explores the Land of Inequality

Deaton, Angus. Economics in America: An Immigrant Economist Explores the Land of Inequality. 2023. 280p. ISBN 9780691247625.

In Economics in America, Nobel Prize-winning economist Angus Deaton offers candid reflections on his profession and his experiences as a naturalized U.S. citizen. Upon immigrating to the United States in the early 1980s, Deaton was struck by both America's strengths and its profound societal inequalities. The book clarifies how economics addresses contemporary issues, from poverty and retirement to healthcare, while weaving in Deaton's personal narrative as an academic navigating this new landscape.

Deaton's witty and incisive reflections delve into the daily lives of economists, sharing both their successes and failures. He provides an insider's account of the Nobel Prize journey that led to his own recognition and critically examines the persistent tensions between economics and politics, questioning whether the field transcends the political biases of its practitioners. Ultimately, Deaton explores the extent to which economists might be accountable for America's increasing despair and rising populism, offering a disarmingly frank critique of his own discipline alongside illuminating observations on his adopted country's policy triumphs and shortcomings.

Fans of economics will enjoy Deaton's descriptions of our society, and will appreciate how he constructs a critique of the current system and ways in which we can improve on wealth building in this country.

How to Eat Well for Adults with ADHD: A Practical, Non-Diet Guide to Feeding Your Body & Mind When You Have ADHD

King, Rebecca. How to Eat Well for Adults with ADHD: A Practical, Non-Diet Guide to Feeding Your Body & Mind When You Have ADHD. 2025. 192p. ISBN 9780760392096.

It can be overwhelming to figure out how to properly nourish your body and mind when you have ADHD. Challenges related to executive function, impulsivity, and dopamine regulation often lead to issues with finding the motivation to cook, remembering to eat, or overeating for stimulation. These struggles can have serious consequences for both physical and mental health. How to Eat Well offers a comprehensive approach to navigating these difficulties by providing practical, shame-free solutions for common problems that adults with ADHD experience regarding food, cooking, and nutrition.

How to Eat Well is not a diet plan, but a solutions-oriented guide rooted in an intuitive eating philosophy. It offers strategies for managing emotional eating, sensory issues, and other common challenges. The guide includes practical ADHD-friendly hacks for shopping, meal-planning, and food prep, as well as simple formulas for creating easy meals and snacks. With 40 delicious and straightforward recipes, this resource aims to help adults with ADHD build a better, thriving relationship with food without shame or pressure.

Fire Escape: How Animals and Plants Survive Wildfires

Stremer, Jessica. Fire Escape: How Animals and Plants Survive Wildfires. 2024. 128p. ISBN 9780823454426.

In a surprising look at an escalating global problem, Fire Escape explores how a variety of seemingly unconnected elements are crucial tools in the fight against wildfires. From using goats and beavers for prevention to deploying drones and parachutes for fighting fires, and even understanding the role of pinecones and beetles in adaptation, humans have come up with innovative and often unexpected ways to tackle this growing threat. The traditional wildfire season has been extended due to factors like droughts and warming weather, making this an urgent matter of life and death for global wildlife.

Fire Escape takes a unique approach to this "hot topic" by focusing on compelling and lesser-known angles. It explores injury rehabilitation efforts for animals caught in fires and examines species that have evolved to use wildfires to their advantage. Furthermore, it highlights practical ways to aid area repopulation after a fire and details the specific animals that actively help to prevent and fight wildfires, offering a fresh perspective on a critical environmental issue.

Bleach, Vol. 10: Tattoo on the Sky

Kubo, Tite. Bleach, Vol. 10: Tattoo on the Sky. 2005. 200p. ISBN 9781421500812. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

With the assistance of Kūkaku, whom they met in Bleach, Vol. 9, Ichigo and his companions are now closer to their goal of infiltrating the Soul Society to save Rukia from execution. To successfully execute Kūkaku's plan, Ichigo faces a critical challenge: he must gain control over his immense spiritual energy, a task that comes with the significant risk of causing extensive collateral damage during their entry. This obstacle underscores the difficulty of their mission and the potential consequences of his powerful, yet volatile, abilities.

While Ichigo's team prepares, the Soul Society is far from idle. They have quickly assembled and dispatched a delegation of captains to meet the incoming "unwanted visitors." This formidable welcoming committee is poised to provide the rudest possible reception, setting the stage for a series of intense and dangerous confrontations that Ichigo and his allies must overcome to reach Rukia.

The story continues in Bleach, Vol. 11.

His Face is the Sun

Corpora, Michelle Jabès. His Face is the Sun. Book 1 of the Throne of Khetara series. 2025. 525p. ISBN 9781464224584.

The kingdom of Khetara is simmering with unrest, mirroring the intense heat of the Khamsin winds. When the pharaoh's wife gives birth to not one but three children, she receives help from three strange ladies who each bless a child. The eldest son becomes the crown prince. The middle child, the daughter Sita, becomes a princess becomes a bargaining chip to marry to another kingdom to support Khetara. The youngest son joins the temple. 

Karim, a tomb robber from the Red Lands, spends time with a group called the Jackals. When plundering an ancient tomb, Karim inadvertently awakens an ancient evil, a pharaoh who was stricken from history more than a thousand years ago. Now Karim is on the run, pursued by a malevolent monster. 

Neff is the only child of the local scribe. When she experiences a powerful vision from a goddess, she is noticed by the high priestess and brought back to the capital's temple where she can train. But her visions are very powerful and prove true. She connects with the young prince who now lives in the temple, but she's unaware that other, more sinister magic is at work within the grand temple.

Raetawy is a farmer's daughter who keenly feels the burden of the pharaoh's exploitation of her people and land. Wondering who will dare challenge the pharaoh, Rae finds that she might be the best suited person to do so after all.

The pharaoh's unexplained illness fuels whispers of rebellion, creating a volatile atmosphere throughout the land. Concurrently, a long-forgotten oracle in the quiet desert begins to manifest, unleashing a dark prophecy that intricately connects the destinies of Sita, Neff, Rae, and Karim. With an ancient evil now roaming the land, and with a corrupt and murderous crown prince claiming the throne of Khetara, bloodsheed looms over the land! Can these four strangers discover what prophecy binds them together and save Khetara before it is too late?

The Frozen Hours

 Shaara, Jeff. The Frozen Hours. 2017. 527p. ISBN 9780345549228.

In June 1950, North Korea invaded South Korea, igniting a brutal conflict. The United Nations, led by the United States, intervened and pushed back the North Korean forces past the 38th parallel, the de facto border between the two countries. As US forces continued to move towards North Korea's border with China, the troops were told they would be home by Christmas. The conflict escalated dramatically in November 1950, however, when hundreds of thousands of Chinese troops, who had secretly entered Korea, sprung massive traps on the unprepared Allied forces. Already battling extreme cold, the Allied troops found themselves encircled and caught off guard around the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea. A force that had been on the verge of victory now faced imminent destruction, fighting for survival against overwhelming odds and unimaginable weather, despite General Douglas MacArthur's assurances of being home by Christmas.

The Frozen Hours vividly recounts this harrowing battle through multiple perspectives. Readers experience the strategic challenges faced by Oliver P. Smith, commanding general of the American 1st Marine Division, who famously reframed their retreat as "advancing in a different direction." The raw, brutal realities of combat are brought to life through the eyes of Marine Private Pete Riley, a World War II veteran thrust into his greatest fight. On the opposing side, the immense pressure on Chinese commander Sung Shi-Lun is palpable as he endeavors to annihilate the surrounded Americans, constantly aware of Chairman Mao Tse-Tung's watchful eye. 

Readers are immersed in a critical moment of America's "Forgotten War," where soldiers battle both the elements and a relentless enemy for the fate of the Korean Peninsula. Fans of military history will appreciate the level of details and the vivid descriptions of battles and survival amid one of the most violent confrontation of the Korean war.

Slow Violence: Confronting Dark Truths in the American Classroom

Ray, Ranita. Slow Violence: Confronting Dark Truths in the American Classroom. 2025. 336p. ISBN 9781250288301.

When Dr. Ranita Ray began studying a specific school in Las Vegas, she was initially focused on resource shortages and budget cuts. However, she quickly uncovered a far more insidious problem: "slow violence." This concept describes the routine psychological, emotional, and physical harm inflicted upon vulnerable students by the very educators and administrators meant to care for them. Her research reveals how a pervasive culture of indifference, verbal abuse, and harassment acts as a significant impediment to a child's well-being and academic success, laying bare the profound, lasting damage caused behind closed classroom doors.

Slow Violence presents several compelling case studies to illustrate this slow violence. We meet Nazli, a bright student told to use "grit" to overcome her brother's death; Reggie, a curious scholar whose future is derailed after an unfair accusation of being a predator; Nalin, a new Filipina student whose potential is ignored due to an academic stereotype; and Miguel, a sharp Latino boy incorrectly diagnosed with autism by his teachers. These stories go beyond common discussions of funding or achievement gaps, offering a crucial new perspective that argues for a fundamental change in how we approach education reform by first addressing how children experience the classroom.

The Shadow of War: A Novel of the Cuban Missile Crisis

Shaara, Jeff. The Shadow of War: A Novel of the Cuban Missile Crisis. 2024. 368p. ISBN 9781250279965.

When the Soviets moved nuclear ballistic missiles to Cuba in 1962, this was for them simply another step in the Cold War. But the situation quickly unraveled into the very real possibility that nuclear war would occur between the Soviet Union and the United States. The Shadow of War connects events from the Bay of Pigs to the building of the Berlin Wall, contextualizing the crisis within the broader geopolitical tensions of the era. This wasn't the only issue Kennedy was managing, as Civil Rights confrontations were simultaneously escalating across the American South. By alternating between US and Russian perspectives, The Shadow of War gives readers a unique look at the same event from both sides, from those in positions of power down to the common man, painting a detailed and immersive picture of the high-stakes situation.

The Shadow of War excels at humanizing key figures, showing that Kennedy was still learning on the job and was willing to admit his mistakes, while Khrushchev was trying to avoid the mistakes of Stalin. This approach generates a palpable sense of tension and suspense, even for readers who know the ultimate outcome. The detailed discussions and thought processes of the characters give readers a real sense of who they were, what stances they took, and how both leaders had to be the "calm in the center of the storm" while many on both sides were ready to start World War III. The book also underscores the striking difference between the news media of that time and today, noting how news outlets were willing to withhold reporting until after a presidential address to the American people.

Fans of history will love this fast-paced historical narrative that could have led to the planet's destruction.

Naruto, Vol. 33: Secret Missions

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 33: Secret Missions. 2011. 192p. ISBN 9781421520018. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Now in position by the bridge after Naruto, Vol. 32, Naruto and his team await the results of the meeting between Yamato posing as Sasori and Kabuto. But Orochimaru anticipated this move, and he intervenes to capture Sasori. In the following confrontation, Naruto undergoes a terrifying transformation, his powers escalating to a point where he loses control and shockingly turns against his own teammates. This unexpected and dangerous shift throws his allies into immediate peril, forcing them to confront a vastly more powerful and unpredictable Naruto. The reasons behind this violent metamorphosis remain unclear, leaving his friends bewildered and struggling to understand the sudden betrayal by someone they trust.

Amidst this conflict and chaos, Orochimaru reveals a terrifying and far-reaching plot. His machinations, long shrouded in secrecy, are unveiled to have caused a staggering number of deaths, far exceeding what anyone had previously imagined. The revelation of Orochimaru's deadly scheme casts a dark shadow over the events, suggesting that Naruto's transformation might be intrinsically linked to this larger, more malevolent plan that threatens the entire ninja world.

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 34. 

Geo's Fortune

Mucha, Amy. Geo's Fortune. 2025. 272p. ISBN 9781682636718.

At 13, Geo has lived with her goth mother her whole life. Her father died when she was very young, so ever since then it's been the two of them against the world. When her mother needs to secure employment to avoid foreclosure on the house, Geo suddenly sees that her life could change irrevocably, since her mother cannot find work locally. With a move on the horizon, Geo is in urgent need of money, so she decides to start a fortune-telling business with her best friend Lana. Using Lana's rock collection as props, Geo launches herself into interpreting what the rocks say about people who pick them, despite having no belief in psychic powers or knowledge of rocks and crystals. Geo is content to offer fake fortunes to anyone willing to pay, prioritizing quick cash over genuine mystical abilities. 

However, Geo's seemingly harmless scheme takes an unexpected turn when her fabricated predictions begin to mysteriously come true. Her friends quickly become convinced of her psychic abilities, a notion Geo desperately tries to refute. She firmly believes in logic and dismisses concepts like psychic powers, healing energies, or manifesting. Now, she's left questioning her own beliefs as her fake fortunes manifest into reality, challenging her rational worldview. Can Geo figure out what is happening to her before she goes too far?

A delightful tale, all of the characters in Geo's Fortune are realistically portrayed. Geo is insecure but knows how to get things done. Lana doesn't want to lose her best friend. Feather is spacey and out there, but she brings a passion and an explanation to the story. Fans of friendship stories will appreciate Geo's efforts to avoid moving and start a new life elsewhere.

Black Power Scorecard: Measuring the Racial Gap and What We Can Do to Close It

Perry, Andre. Black Power Scorecard: Measuring the Racial Gap and What We Can Do to Close It. 2025. 256p. ISBN 9781250869715.

Black Power Scorecard redefines the understanding of Black Americans' pursuit of power. Moving beyond the traditional focus on legal equality to emphasize its inherent connection with economic influence and ownership across various facets of life, the author utilizes extensive research and statistical data to quantify the actual power Black Americans wield in the United States, arguing that true power in the U.S. extends far beyond basic democratic freedoms.

The book comprehensively evaluates Black power across critical areas, including property, business, wealth, education, health, and social mobility, assessing communities nationwide. Perry calculates how this translates into fundamental means of power, including life itself and the longevity of Black communities. In doing so, he identifies crucial, often overlooked areas where investment could significantly narrow the racial gap, ultimately benefiting all of society and offering a fresh, data-driven approach to addressing structural inequality.

More than 150 years after the end of the Civil War, racial injustices continue to afflict the United States, preventing the nation from achieving its true potential.

Inferno: The World at War, 1939-1945

Hastings Max. Inferno: The World at War, 1939-1945. 2011. 729p. ISBN 9780307273598.

World War II, a conflict of unprecedented scale, involved tens of millions of soldiers and claimed an average of twenty-seven thousand lives daily, totaling sixty million fatalities. Inferno crafts a uniquely intimate portrait of the world at war through strikingly detailed personal stories, weaving together the experiences of diverse individuals, including soldiers, sailors, airmen, British housewives, Indian peasants, SS killers, and the citizens of Leningrad who endured cannibalism during its two-year siege, as well as Japanese suicide pilots and American carrier crews. Simultaneously, Inferno traces major strategic developments—such as Hitler's refusal to retreat from the Soviet Union, Stalin's ruthless use of population to wear down the German army, Churchill's leadership in the dark days of 1940-41, and Roosevelt's steady hand—placing them firmly within their real human context.

Inferno sheds light on some of the war's darker and less-explored aspects. It delves into the conflict between the Soviet Union and Finland, highlighting the Finns' fierce and surprising resistance against Stalin's invading Red Army. It further examines the devastating Bengal famine of 1943-44, an event that claimed at least one million lives and which, in Nehru's words, served as "the final epitaph of British rule" in India. This expansive approach offers a nuanced understanding of the war's far-reaching impact, extending beyond its most commonly recounted battles.

Unlike many histories of World War II, Inferno draws extensively from journals and letters of individuals who lived through this frightening period in history. The personal touch of living the war through the eyes of participants builds a strong foundation for the history told by Max Hastings. Fans of history will find this volume one of the best history of the Second World War.

America’s Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State

Balmer, Richard. America’s Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State. 2025. 160p. ISBN 9781586424145.

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution established a fundamental principle: the government should not favor any single religion but must allow for the free exercise of all faiths and beliefs. This separation of church and state has been remarkably successful, shielding the government from religious factionalism and fostering a religious diversity that is unparalleled globally. For over two centuries, this framework has served as a cornerstone of American governance and societal harmony.

However, this long-standing principle is now facing significant challenges. Recent shifts in the Supreme Court have moved away from excluding religious practices from public institutions and laws, instead favoring the inclusion and promotion of religion in publicly funded initiatives. Concurrently, a growing movement of Christian Nationalists has become increasingly vocal and is gaining positions of power. These developments suggest that despite its historical success, the future of the separation of church and state is by no means guaranteed.

America's Best Idea explores the history behind the separation of church and state, and describes how this process is now being undermined by political partisanship. Fans of history will appreciate this deep dive into a central but threatened element of the American constitution and how it impacts our society.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25. 2020. 282p. ISBN 9781974718467. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Rin's visions of the past, which started in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23 and continued in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24, culminate in the devastating climax of the Blue Night, where he witnesses Satan's cloned body fail to contain the immense cosmic energies within him. This catastrophic event unleashes an unprecedented crisis upon the Knights of the True Cross, as a wave of destruction begins to sweep across the entire world, threatening to engulf everything in its path.

Despite being a mere newborn, Rin possesses immense demonic power, his demon heart unleashing scorching blue flames that ravage the Knights of the True Cross. These destructive blue flames continue to spread relentlessly, ensuring that no one will be spared from their intense heat and the widespread devastation they cause.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26.

It Found Us

Currie, Lindsay. It Found Us. 2023. 288p. ISBN 9781728259499.

Twelve-year-old Hazel Woods, a budding detective, finds herself unexpectedly drawn into a terrifying mystery when her friend Everett mysteriously vanishes after a game of hide-and-seek in the local cemetery. Hazel and her brother, Den, begin to uncover a series of eerie clues, including whispered counting, the scent of smoke, and a chillingly cold presence that seems to follow them. 

As they delve deeper, they realize that Everett's disappearance may be connected to the cemetery's dark history and the lingering spirits of its past. Hazel, with her keen observational skills and unwavering determination, must decipher the cryptic clues and uncover the truth before it's too late for Everett. 

This spooky mystery explores themes of friendship, loss, and the lingering power of the past, inviting readers to join Hazel on a thrilling and suspenseful journey to save her friend and unravel the secrets of the haunted cemetery.

No New Things: A Radically Simple 30-Day Guide to Saving Money, the Planet, and Your Sanity

 Piper, Ashlee. No New Things: A Radically Simple 30-Day Guide to Saving Money, the Planet, and Your Sanity. 2025. 288p. ISBN 9781250382160. 

In No New Things, author Ashlee Piper recounts her two-year personal challenge of purchasing nothing new, a journey that led her to financial freedom, decluttering, goal achievement, and an overall improvement in her health and happiness. She attributes her prior inability to achieve these goals to the distractions of mindless consumption. Now, after a decade of refining her method, Piper offers a simple yet transformative 30-day challenge that has empowered thousands globally to discover similar liberation and fulfillment.

This book delves into what Piper terms "conditioned consumerism," exposing how it subtly drains our time, money, and mental energy while simultaneously harming the environment. Readers are then guided through customizable daily actions designed to cultivate a more streamlined and abundant life, free from the burdens of excessive spending and material possessions, all without sacrificing personal style, convenience, or enjoyment. No New Things ultimately serves as a practical solution for anyone seeking to reduce their consumption, combat modern overwhelm, and live a more intentional life.

A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America

Lee, Trymaine. A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America. 2025. 272p. ISBN 9781250098016.

In this profound narrative, journalist Trymaine Lee confronts a life-altering event: a near-fatal heart attack at age 38, despite his physical fitness. His five-year-old daughter, Nola, innocently asked "why," prompting Lee to delve into the underlying causes of his health crisis. He realized the answer lay in the immense burden of being a Black man in America, grappling with the relentless exposure to Black death as a journalist, and the deep scars of his family's history. This includes the legacy of enslavement, lynching, the Great Migration, the pervasive yet insidious racism of the North, and the devastating impact of gun violence that claimed the lives of multiple family members, including two great-uncles, a grandfather, a stepbrother, and two cousins.

Lee masterfully interweaves three powerful threads throughout the book: the extensive and often brutal history of African Americans and firearms; his personal experiences documenting gun violence and exploring the economic forces behind both legal and illegal gun industries; and his own autobiography. This personal journey includes his near brushes with gun violence in his youth, a reflective trip to Ghana to trace his ancestors' journey from the Middle Passage, and the constant challenge of representing Black people accurately within a predominantly white and often antagonistic media landscape. Ultimately, A Thousand Ways to Die serves as Lee's comprehensive answer to Nola, offering a raw and complex portrayal of the Black experience while simultaneously celebrating the indomitable strength and beauty of his family and community, which forms Nola's inheritance.

Montgomery Bonbon: Mystery at the Manor

Becket-King, Alasdair. Montgomery Bonbon: Mystery at the Manor. Book 3 of the Montgomery Bonbon series. 2025. 288p. ISBN 9781536241686.

As her keen alter-ego, Montgomery Bonbon, Bonnie Montgomery takes on the crucial task of delivering a priceless diamond to Adderstone Manor, the residence of the renowned, now-retired master thief, Fergus Croke. However, the situation quickly escalates when Croke is discovered dead mere hours later. Suspicion immediately falls upon each of his four protégés, all of whom are seasoned criminals themselves. This presents a unique challenge for even the brilliant Bonbon: with every suspect being a known crook, discerning the true culprit becomes an intricate puzzle.

With the assistance of Grampa Banks and an unexpectedly undercover best friend, Bonbon dives into the investigation. It doesn't take long for her to unravel a web of hidden identities and discover a multitude of motives. The mystery also leads her to a rather peculiar hedge maze populated by monkeys, adding an eccentric twist to the case. The pressing question remains: can Bonbon and her team unmask the killer before they strike again or disappear without a trace?

Fans of light mysteries will enjoy this action-packed adventure. 

My Hero Academia, Vol. 9

Horikoshi, Kohei. My Hero Academia, Vol. 9. 2017. 192p. ISBN 9781421593401. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following their end of term exam in My Hero Academia, Vol. 8, Midoriya and the U.A. students are headed to summer camp, but this is far from a typical vacation. Instead, it's an intensive training regimen designed to push them to further develop their unique Quirks. Their teachers have prepared a series of rigorous challenges, aiming to enhance their abilities and prepare them for future threats. However, these planned obstacles will pale in comparison to an unforeseen danger that looms large over the camp.

A new and formidable group of enemies emerges, posing a threat far more difficult and life-altering than any training exercise. The true horror of the situation lies not only in the villains' power but also in the identity of their specific target and the sinister motivations behind their actions. This unexpected confrontation promises to be a pivotal and potentially devastating moment for Midoriya and his classmates, forcing them to face a danger that will test their resolve and abilities to their absolute limits.

Love in 280 Characters or Less

Stringfield, Ravynn K. Love in 280 Characters or Less. 2025. 320p. ISBN 9781250899385.

Sydney Ciara Warren, a Black college freshman, is embarking on the exciting yet nerve-wracking journey of her first year at Coastal Virginia University. While thrilled about this new chapter, she faces the challenge of being separated from her best friend, Malcolm, and the uncertainty of her future academic and career path, much to the disappointment of her parents who envision law school for her. Fascinated by fashion, Sydney finds comfort and a means of self-expression through blogging about her experiences, curating meaningful outfits, and engaging on Twitter as she navigates campus life and searches for her place in the world.

Within the digital realm, Sydney develops a connection and a crush on a mysterious online persona known as YoungPrinceX. However, her real-life romantic landscape becomes more complex when she begins a relationship with a kind classmate named Xavier, who might just be the person behind the screen. As Sydney juggles academics, burgeoning relationships both online and offline, and the pressure to define her future, she hopes to not only survive her first semester but to truly flourish in her real life as much as she seems to be online.

Filled with realistic characters who live their lives while confronting issues such as racism and gender differences. Love in 280 Characters or Less is a great transition from young adulthood into becoming an adult.

Frog: The secret diary of a paramedic

Gould, Sally. Frog: The secret diary of a paramedic. 2025. 352p. ISBN 9781761633379

Ever since she was a child, Sally Gould knew she wanted to be a paramedic, just like her father. In Frog, Sally Gould reveals the multifaceted reality of life working in an ambulance, which she describes as an unpredictable mix of traumatic, gross, dull, hilarious, and even magical moments. To succeed in this demanding profession, one must possess an unconventional problem-solving ability, maintain composure amid chaos, have a robust stomach, and be able to quickly process patient fatalities. These traits are crucial, in addition to a deep understanding of human physiology and the skills to address its failures, all often complemented by a dark sense of humor.

Frog offers an intimate look beyond the sirens and intense emergency scenes, delving into the human toll of the job and the cumulative impact of trauma, which is often far removed from public perception. Drawing from years of detailed journals, Sally Gould shares a searingly honest and inspiring personal narrative of feeling like a fraud and eventually having to confront her depression. Her memoir stands as a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable resilience, unwavering courage, and strong camaraderie that are essential to navigating the high-stakes world of emergency medicine.

Gallows Hill

Ruby, Lois. Gallows Hill. 2023. 216p. ISBN 9781728431024.

 

In the year 1692, Salem, Massachusetts, becomes the backdrop for a gripping tale as Thomas, a young Quaker orphan, arrives from England. Immediately ostracized by the dominant Puritan community, he finds himself without shelter or means of support. In a twist of fate, he's taken in by Prudence Blevins, an elderly widow whispered to be a witch. This association only deepens his already precarious position in the distrustful town.

Meanwhile, Patience, a young Puritan woman who has always strived for piety, finds her structured world collapsing when her younger sister, Abigail, succumbs to a mysterious illness. This affliction, mirroring the torments of other Salem girls, leads to accusations of witchcraft and demonic influence. As Abigail and others begin to name their neighbors as witches, fear and paranoia grip the community. Amidst this escalating hysteria, Thomas and Patience are compelled to seek the truth, challenging their deeply held beliefs, loyalties, and their very identities in Salem as they desperately fight to protect those they care about.

The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez

Paulino, Jasminne. The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez. 2025. 304p. ISBN 9780593859315.

Seventh-grader Alex Ramirez is captivated by space, spending his free time watching rocket launch videos with his Papi and immersing himself in the NASA website. His ultimate dream is to become an astronaut, a goal he knows will require rigorous study. However, Alex's aspirations are continually thwarted by his placement in the school's SC (self-contained) classroom, where he faces the monotony of repetitive worksheets and outdated reading materials. This segregation prevents him from joining Ms. Rosef's mainstream science class, which Alex believes is the crucial first step on his journey to NASA.

After hearing "not yet" from his teacher for what feels like the millionth time, Alex resolves to take matters into his own hands. Determined to prove his capabilities, he embarks on a mission to convince everyone—his teachers, parents, and schoolmates—that he is indeed capable of extraordinary achievements and is ready to pursue his goals of becoming an astronaut.

Fans of main characters overcoming limitations placed on them will appreciate Alex's efforts to overcome a system that deems him not able to fully participate. Alex feels real, and his issues, though subtle, subtly influence the way the story evolves without being front and center. 

Bleach, Vol. 9: Fourteen Days for Conspiracy

Kubo, Tite. Bleach, Vol. 9: Fourteen Days for Conspiracy. 2005. 200p. ISBN 9781591169246. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

The race to rescue Rukia from the Soul Society officially began in Bleach, Vol. 8, and Ichigo and his companions immediately encounter their first significant obstacle: Jindanbô. This monstrous, fez-wearing gatekeeper has maintained an impenetrable defense of the Western Gate for over 300 years, refusing entry to any soul, and he shows no inclination to make an exception for Ichigo's group.

Despite the formidable challenge posed by Jindanbô, Ichigo is not deterred. He had anticipated that his assault on the heavily guarded Soul Society would be anything but easy, embracing the difficulty as a necessary part of the mission. For Ichigo, an effortless victory would simply be boring, suggesting he relishes the struggle and the opportunity to prove his strength against such a powerful adversary.

The story continues in Bleach, Vol. 10.

Somadina

Emezi, Akwaeke. Somadina. 2025. 300p. ISBN 9780593309070.

When the land was devastated by the Split, the only people who survived were those who had a magical ability, called a gift. Somadina and her twin brother, Jayaike, share an unusually deep connection, almost functioning as a single entity. However, as they reach adulthood, their emerging gifts create a stark divide. While Jayaike's powers are admired and welcomed, Somadina's darkness and void evoke fear and ostracization within their community, exacerbating her lifelong status as an outsider and exposing her to open hostility.

When Jayaike, her closest confidant, mysteriously disappears after being kidnapped by a strange and vicious magical being bent on devouring him, Somadina is compelled to embark on a perilous quest to find and free him. This journey forces her to confront daunting challenges, including venturing into the forbidden Sacred Forest and undertaking grueling, otherworldly travel. She must delve into hidden realms avoided by even those deeply connected to the spirit world, testing the limits of her physical and spiritual strength in her desperate search for her missing twin.

Inspired by West Africa and Igbo cultures, Somadina's tale will resonate with readers who find themselves not identifying with their own culture and society.

Future Millionaire: A Young Person’s Step-by-Step Guide to Making WEALTH Inevitable

Rodgers, Rachel. Future Millionaire: A Young Person’s Step-by-Step Guide to Making WEALTH Inevitable. 2025. 208p. ISBN 9780310158110.

Future Millionaire is a motivational guide for young adults, asserting that anyone can become a millionaire by adopting the right mindset and financial habits. Drawing on insights from psychology and neuroscience, the book provides practical strategies to challenge limiting beliefs and take deliberate action towards achieving financial aspirations. Building wealth isn't just about money, but about enabling dreams and maximizing one's potential for personal growth and career success.

Having overcome her own experiences with financial hardship to build an eight-figure business, the author shares her journey and empowers readers to transform their own futures. Future Millionaire demystifies financial concepts often omitted from school curricula, covering essential topics like budgeting, debt management, and investing. Beyond practical advice, readers are encouraged to cultivate a "millionaire mindset" that includes healthy boundaries and using wealth to support social causes, ultimately challenging systemic inequities and making a positive impact on the world.

Owning It: Our Disabled Childhoods… in Our Own Words

Campbell, Jen, editor. Owning It: Our Disabled Childhoods… in Our Own Words. 2025. 368p. ISBN 9780571380022.

This book serves as an anthology that explores the experiences of growing up with a disability. It features twenty-two autobiographical stories from some of the most celebrated writers within the disabled community. Directly addressing the often isolating nature of childhood disability, Owning It acknowledges that even with supportive loved ones, it's rare to have peers facing similar challenges—until now, through the shared narratives in this collection.

These powerful, firsthand accounts cover a wide range of experiences, from navigating school sports and the awkwardness of receiving unsolicited free items, to balancing hospital visits with a burgeoning social life. For disabled children, this anthology offers a much-needed sense of companionship and recognition. For non-disabled children, it provides an invaluable own-voice perspective, fostering empathy and understanding. It's truly a powerful and essential book that fills a significant void.

Mumming: A Year of Trying (and Failing) to Be a Better Parent

Vanstone, Victoria. Mumming: A Year of Trying (and Failing) to Be a Better Parent. 2025. 320p. ISBN 9780645858099.

Victoria Vanstone initially envisioned herself as the quintessential organized mom, but instead found herself becoming a parent who sometimes resorts to shouting and throwing things. Determined to bridge this gap between expectation and reality, Victoria commits to a year of personal and parental development.

Her year of self-improvement encompasses everything from enrolling in a parenting course and attempting an exercise routine to navigating the complex world of adult friendships and even taking a solo vacation away from her family. Through these varied and often failed experiments, Victoria discovers that imperfection is not only inevitable but can also be the source of joy and a path to a more fulfilling family life. 

Mumming is a heartwarming and side-splitting read that celebrates the messy, authentic, and often funny reality of parenting. This memoir offers a hilarious and deeply relatable look at one mother's journey to reinvent herself and her parenting style, often through a series of comical missteps. 

Naruto, Vol. 32: The Search for Sasuke

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 32: The Search for Sasuke. 2011. 184p. ISBN 9781421519449. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Upon returning from their battle with Sasori in Naruto, Vol. 31, Team Kakashi faces the absence of their leader as Kakashi needs a week to recover. As a result, Naruto and Sakura are appointed a new leader and a new teammate, Sai, who is mysterious and has strange jitsu powers. Sai changes the team's dynamic for the worse, and both Sakura and Naruto are annoyed at his presence.

Meanwhile, Lady Tsunada convinces reluctant elders that it is better to send Naruto on missions than keeping him in Kohona, where he would be easy for his enemies to locate. Sent to make contact with a spy in Orochimaru's organization, Naruto's team head to a famous bridge in what could very well be an ambush!

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 33.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 18: No Brainer

Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 18: No Brainer. 2023. 224p. ISBN 9781419766947. Available at FIC KIN on the library shelves.

Greg Heffley's adventures continue as his middle school now faces closure based on horrible test scores. Large budget cuts have undermined the educational mission of the school, and as a result test scores have plummeted. Initially indifferent to the prospect, Greg's perspective shifts when he realizes the closure would mean being separated from his best friend, Rowley Jefferson. Suddenly, saving the school becomes a top priority, and Greg finds himself reluctantly joining forces with his classmates to prevent the inevitable.

Greg's efforts to rescue his school form the core of the story, as he and his classmates devise various schemes and plans. The potential closure of the school looms large, threatening to disrupt the established order of Greg's middle school life and usher in a new, uncertain chapter. 

No Brainer continues the familiar blend of humor and relatable middle school experiences that have made the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series a global phenomenon.

Malcolm Lives!

Kendi, Ibram X. Malcolm Lives! 2025. 400p. ISBN 9780374311865.

Malcolm Lives! offers a compelling narrative biography of Malcolm X, meticulously crafted to trace his life from birth to death. Growing up poor, Malcom X's early life was shaped by the struggle against a racist American society. Malcolm turned to a life of crime and was eventually caught. In prison, Malcolm had the time to reflect and shape his views of the world. Upon his release, Malcolm joined the Nation of Islam and became its most prolific speaker. Malcolm Lives! provides crucial context for Malcolm's pivotal decisions and the actions of those around him, moving beyond a mere personal portrait to illuminate the intricate social and political landscape of America during the Civil Rights Movement. Malcolm's journey ultimately evolved towards a powerful commitment to anti-racism.

This groundbreaking work serves as a comprehensive and accessible resource, not only providing an intimate look at a hugely influential American figure but also revealing the broader historical forces that shaped his life and era. By presenting Malcolm's transformation and intellectual evolution within the context of the civil rights movement, Malcolm Lives! highlights that his enduring legacy is grounded in his ongoing growth and dedication to achieving a more just and equitable society.

Most Haunted Houses

Fielding, Yvette. Most Haunted Houses. 2025. 208p. ISBN 9781839135606.

Are ghosts real? Do some of them haunt buildings? Drawing from a wide range of locations, including historical royal residences, the infamous 'Most Haunted House in Britain,' and even the author's personal home, Most Haunted Houses describes paranormal encounters that occurred during the filming of a British series on the same subject. A variety of spectral figures and haunting events are described, from barbaric priest's ghost, the eerie tale of a witch who faced trial for murder, and the heartbreaking saga of a pair of tragic lovers whose spirits continue to linger

Fans of paranormal activity will enjoy these various encounters and will experience some of the goosebumps the author no doubt suffered during her stay in these haunted locations. Readers are cautioned that these accounts are not for the faint of heart, promising an exploration of some of the most chilling ghostly phenomena documented. Each of these encounters is described in vivid terms and provide an unsettling glimpse into the world of the supernatural.

Confessions of a Junior Spy

Munda, Rosaria. Confessions of a Junior Spy. Book 1 of the Confessions of a Junior Spy series. 2025. 224p. ISBN 9781250363800.

Bea, a young teen raised within the clandestine walls of the Pangean Hotel, a sanctuary specifically designed for spies. Immersed in this unique environment, Bea has dedicated her life to mastering essential espionage skills like self-defense, languages, codebreaking, and field medicine. Her ultimate aspiration is to emulate her mother, one of the Pangean League's top agents, and embark on a career in the high-stakes world of espionage, using her abilities to aid those in need.

However, Bea's mother has a starkly different vision for her future, insisting she attend a conventional boarding school to experience a "normal" life—a fate Bea dreads more than anything. While Bea reluctantly navigates the complexities of school applications and devises elaborate schemes to avoid this dreaded normalcy, a new family, seemingly on the run, arrives at the hotel. Seizing the opportunity to apply her honed skills, Bea, alongside her best friend Tommy, becomes determined to help the new girl, Chantal, even as the specter of boarding school looms large.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24. 2019. 210p. ISBN 9781974711727. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following his time travel with Mephisto in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23, Rin continues to confront the tragic events of the Blue Night. He witnessed the moment his mother, Yuri Egin, gave birth to him and Yukio. Though he had long resisted learning about his origins, this harrowing experience reveals crucial information about himself that might be vital for the impending conflict. This newfound knowledge comes at a heavy emotional cost, pushing Rin to grapple with a past he never wished to acknowledge.

Meanwhile, aboard the airship Dominus Liminus, the Illuminati and Lucifer relentlessly advance their apocalyptic agenda: to summon Satan and reduce the world to nothingness. Lucifer has seemingly welcomed Yukio as an ally into their ranks. However, Yukio harbors his own secret intentions, suggesting a deeper, more complex plan that could disrupt the Illuminati's destructive aspirations, even as the world stands on the brink of annihilation.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25.

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

Klune, T.J. Somewhere Beyond the Sea. Book 2 of the Cerulean Chronicles. 2024. 416p. ISBN 9781250881205.

Arthur Parnassus, once an orphan on the peculiar Marsyas Island, has built a fulfilling life as the master of a unique orphanage for six magical, and potentially dangerous, children. He hopes to formalize his family by adopting them, driven by a deep desire to shield them from the neglect he once endured. He is supported by his partner, Linus Baker, a former caseworker who investigated the family in The House in the Cerulan Sea, and the island's sprite, Zoe Chapelwhite, along with her girlfriend, Mayor Helen Webb. All of them are united in their fierce protection of the children against the Ministry and Extremely Upper Management.

Arthur's carefully constructed peace is threatened when he is summoned to address his shadowy past as a phoenix that could combust at any time publicly, thrusting him into a battle for the future rights of his family and all magical individuals. The potential arrival of a new magical child, who embraces the label "monster," further complicates matters, challenging Arthur's efforts to create a safe and accepting environment for his children. This juncture forces Arthur and his found family to confront external pressures and internal complexities, testing the strength and resilience of their unconventional bonds as they fight for the life they deserve on Marsyas Island.

The children once again must defend themselves and their identity against a corrupt government who would deny who they are. Somewhat of a parable for our times, the reader will appreciate Arthur's commitment to protecting his family against those who would deny them.

Adapt: Mastering change in four steps

Clarke, Andrea. Adapt: Mastering Change in Four Steps. 2025. ISBN 9781761632440.

Adapt argues that the post-2020 world is characterized by an accelerating pace of change, blurred professional boundaries, shifting social norms, and rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Our current mindset for addressing these profound shifts is outdated and inadequate. Instead of resisting or retreating from this constant flux, we must continuously engage with change, learning to anticipate and actively shape it to our advantage.

Argue provides practical tools to help individuals and leaders navigate this unpredictable environment. Several strategies can be employed, such as scanning for signals of change to minimize disruption, applying the "good advice test" for improved decision-making, utilizing the 80/20 rule to uncover hidden opportunities, and safeguarding personal well-being with the "energy curve." Ultimately, Adapt reframes change not as a threat, but as a powerful catalyst for personal growth, new opportunities, and meaningful progress, equipping readers to master an ever-evolving world.

Blades of Freedom: A Tale of Haiti, Napoleon, and the Louisiana Purchase

Hale, Nathan. Blades of Freedom: A Tale of Haiti, Napoleon, and the Louisiana Purchase. Book 10 of the Harzardous Tales series. 2020. 128p. ISBN 9781419746918. Available at 973.1 HAL on the library shelves.

The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 is widely regarded as one of history's most advantageous deals, yet the reasons behind Napoleon Bonaparte's decision to sell such a vast and seemingly prosperous territory are rooted in the complex dynamics of his colonial ambitions. At the time, France controlled Haiti, a lucrative sugar colony heavily reliant on enslaved labor. However, this control was dramatically challenged by the Haitian Revolution, a massive slave uprising led by Toussaint Louverture, which began in 1791 and ultimately secured Haiti's independence.

Napoleon had initially envisioned Louisiana as a crucial trading hub to support his burgeoning French empire in North America. With Haiti, his primary Caribbean possession, slipping from his grasp due to the successful slave revolt, his grand imperial designs for the continent appeared unsustainable. Consequently, when Thomas Jefferson and James Madison approached him with an offer to purchase only New Orleans, a strategically vital port, Napoleon seized the opportunity to divest himself of the entire Louisiana Territory, effectively abandoning his North American imperial aspirations.

Continuing in the spirit of Nathan Hales' Hazardous Tales, Blades of Freedom illustrates the battles that led to the first Black Republic. Fans of history will appreciate the details and will learn about a little-known period in history.