The History of Money: A Story of Humanity

McWilliams, David. The History of Money: A Story of Humanity. 2024. 416p. ISBN 

The history of humanity is profoundly and inextricably linked to the history of money. According to leading economist and author David McWilliams, no single innovation has so thoroughly defined our evolution or dramatically altered the direction of global history. Yet, despite its primacy, most people do not truly understand money. McWilliams argues that money is central to every facet of civilization, extending far beyond simple commerce into the political and artistic spheres.

Money defines not only the transactional relationships between worker and employer, or buyer and seller, but also the bond between the governed and the governor, the state and the citizen. It unlocks pleasure, puts a price on desire, art, and creativity, motivating us to strive, achieve, invent, and take risks. Simultaneously, money reveals humanity’s darker side, invoking greed, envy, hatred, violence, and enabling colonialism. Readers travel on a global journey, from its birthplace in ancient Babylon to the beginning of trade along the Silk Road, from bustling Marrakech markets to the towering heights of Wall Street. Along this timeline, we meet innovators, emperors, frauds, and speculators who have repeatedly disrupted society and transformed human existence.

Filled with memorable anecdotes, this is an essential, extremely readable history of humanity's single most consequential invention. Readers interested in economics, global history, finance, and political theory will appreciate the deep cultural and systemic power currency holds, making complex economic history accessible and engaging for all.

The Parent Trap

Kästner, Erich. The Parent Trap. 2014. 137p. ISBN 9781782690559.

Summer camp takes an incredibly strange turn when Louise, a girl with long, curly locks from Vienna, and Lottie, a girl who wears severe plaits from Munich, meet for the very first time and discover they are the spitting image of each other. Aside from their hairstyles, the two girls are identical. Filled with curiosity about the secret behind their uncanny resemblance, Louise and Lottie devise a daring plan: they will swap lives.

When the holiday ends, the girls switch identities: Louise travels to Munich as Lottie, and Lottie travels to Vienna as Louise. Thrust into unfamiliar families, schools, and cities, they attempt to navigate two very different worlds while desperately trying to keep their shocking secret hidden. Their adventure to uncover the truth about their shared origins begins as a thrilling game but quickly becomes a complex emotional journey of identity, family, and what it truly means to belong.

This classic story is a timeless read for fans of family and friendship fiction and will resonate particularly with readers who love identity swap narratives. It appeals to those who enjoy gentle, heartwarming mysteries centered on family secrets and the themes of growing up, belonging, and exploring different lives. Its enduring appeal lies in the fun premise, the suspense of maintaining the deception, and the emotional connection forged between the two girls, making it a perfect recommendation for young readers seeking adventure and heart.

The Hidden

Rogers. Matt. The Hidden. Book 4 of the Black Force Shorts series. 2018. 140p. ISBN 9781980824084.

Twenty-three-year-old Will Slater is a prodigious operative for Black Force, a shadowy government division, and in just six months, he's already carved a ruthless reputation in the murky criminal underworld. Driven by a relentless work ethic and a clear death wish, Slater constantly pushes the boundaries of what a young agent can achieve. However, his next assignment takes him deep into the heart of domestic corruption. On a cold evening in Chicago, Slater is tasked with investigating a powerful, corrupt police commander named Ray D’Agostino. To get close to D'Agostino and uncover his secrets, Slater deliberately allows himself to be arrested. Plunging himself into the dangerous confines of the correctional system, Slater is about to learn exactly where his limits lie, and just how far he’s willing to push himself to ensure the job gets done.

This book is perfect for readers who love modern espionage thrillers and dark, high-stakes undercover narratives. The focus on a shadowy government agency and deep-cover infiltration into a corrupt urban environment will draw in readers who enjoy gritty, fast-paced action and exploring themes of institutional rot and self-destruction.

Naruto, Vol. 37: Shikamaru's Battle

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 37: Shikamaru's Battle. 2011. 200p. ISBN 9781421521732. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

In the wake of Asumi's devastating loss in Naruto Vol. 36, Shikamaru’s team is consumed by a single goal: revenge against the Akatsuki murderers who took their mentor. While the Fifth Hokage, Tsunade, attempts to block their unsanctioned mission to prevent further casualties, Kakashi Hatake steps in to lead them, bridging the divide within the Leaf Village. The stakes couldn't be higher as the mysterious Akatsuki organization accelerates its brutal hunt for the bijū—the powerful Tailed Beasts—and the young jinchūriki who host them.

The target on Naruto’s back has never been larger. Though he has returned from his years of travel older and significantly stronger, the question remains: has his desperate, last-minute training been enough to counter the Akatsuki's supernatural abilities? As Shikamaru puts his brilliant tactical mind to the ultimate test against immortal enemies, Naruto must master a world-shaking new technique before his friends fall and the world loses its balance forever...

The story continues in Naturo, Vol. 38.

How to Be Free: A Proven Guide to Escaping Life's Hidden Prisons

Senghor, Shaka. How to Be Free: A Proven Guide to Escaping Life's Hidden Prisons. 2025. 272p. ISBN 9798893310511.

Imprisoned for killing a man, Senghor was sentenced to life. Up for parole after being in prison for 18 years,  he was denied and had to continue serving time. He had a choice: to give up or to change his life from the inside out. He chose hope and, in doing so, discovered that his biggest problems were not the prison walls, but the mental barriers he had built for himself, like fear and guilt. This realization helped him learn powerful truths about what it means to be truly free, lessons that can help anyone improve their relationships and achieve success, regardless of their situation.

Through his compelling personal story, How to Be Free shows that everyone deals with their own invisible chains that hold them back. Drawing on his incredible journey from solitary confinement to a leadership position in a company, he offers more than just inspiration. He provides a real, proven plan for change. The book offers practical, everyday practices, such as journaling and meditation, to help you turn your goals into action and break free from what's holding you back, so you can reach your full potential.

Bog Queen

North, Anna. Bog Queen. 2025. 288p. ISBN 9781635579666.

When a perfectly preserved body is discovered in a bog in northwest England, Agnes, an American forensic anthropologist, is called in to investigate. This is unlike any case she has ever encountered: though the bones confirm the person was buried over two thousand years ago during the Iron Age, the body remains miraculously preserved. Agnes quickly becomes drawn into a profound mystery, feeling an almost primal call to understand and avenge the death of an Iron Age woman who, despite the centuries, feels more like her than she realizes.

As she works, Agnes must contend with local forces: peat-cutters who seek to profit from the rich bog and passionate activists who demand the ancient land be left undisturbed. The bog itself becomes a central character—a complex repository of artifacts and remains with its own dark, powerful stories to tell. Flashing between the uncertainty of post-Brexit England and the druidic order of Celtic Europe at the dawn of the Roman era, Bog Queen forces Agnes to question everything she thought she knew about her own talents, her self-reliance, and her place in the world.

This is a captivating read for fans of historical mystery, archaeological thrillers, and dual-timeline narratives that focus on place and atmosphere. It will strongly appeal to readers who enjoy stories that blend forensic science and ancient history, particularly those featuring female protagonists with deep connections to the past. The book's rich, complex landscape of the bog, both as a setting and a repository of history, makes it an excellent choice for those who value literary quality and political undertones within a suspenseful framework.

Schooled

Sumner, Jamie. Schooled. 2023. 224p. ISBN 9781534486058.

Eleven-year-old Lenny Syms is chosen to be part of an unusual experimental school, where he and four other students will attend sixth grade on a university campus. They are promised a world-class education with brilliant professors and extensive resources. However, the curriculum is far from traditional. Instead of standard academic subjects, the students engage in unconventional activities like meditation, open-ended discussions, and anthropological observation of the campus population. Lenny, who is still grieving the recent loss of his mom, who died from cancer, finds this strange new environment overwhelming.

Struggling with his grief and a distant father who is more comfortable with academia than with people, Lenny feels isolated and just wants to be left alone. He has no interest in being a part of this learning experiment. To navigate his new life as a middle schooler on a college campus, Lenny must learn to rely on the support of his fellow misfit students and a quirky professor. Schooled explores whether this small, unconventional group can help him overcome his sadness and re-engage with the world.

Track Team Titans

Peters, Stephanie and Aburtov, Illustrator. Track Team Titans. 2011. 56p. ISBN 9781434293510. Available as a graphic novel on the library shelves.

Gerald "Sully" Sullivan is ready and eager for the upcoming track season, but his enthusiasm is quickly dampened on the first day of tryouts when no other students show up. Facing the prospect of the Titans track team being canceled due to a lack of members, Sully takes it upon himself to recruit potential runners from other parts of the school's athletic program. He visits the star athletes on the better-established sports teams, hoping their raw talent will be enough to save the track season.

Sully's recruitment efforts are met with immediate resistance, as the other athletes generally dismiss track and field as an inferior or less challenging sport. To change their minds and secure the members needed to keep the team alive, Sully realizes he must prove that track athletes are just as formidable as any other. He is forced into a series of high-stakes compromises: he must beat the star athletes at their own games if he hopes to convince them to join the Titans.

Readers who enjoy fast-paced sports fiction and high school rivalry narratives where an underdog sport or team must fight for survival and respect will enjoy this book. Sully's story showcases determination, team spirit, and the satisfying moments when characters successfully challenge common assumptions about talent and skill.

Three Revolutions: Russia, China, Cuba and the Epic Journeys that Changed the World

Hall, Simon. Three Revolutions: Russia, China, Cuba and the Epic Journeys that Changed the World. 

The history of the 20th century was fundamentally reshaped by three major political upheavals: the Russian, Chinese, and Cuban revolutions. This book tells the stories of these epoch-defining events by focusing on the parallel, epic journeys at their core. These include Lenin's return to Russia in 1917, Mao's legendary Long March across China, and Fidel Castro's triumphant arrival in Havana. These journeys not only defined the paths of the revolutionary leaders but also laid the groundwork for the profound changes that would transform their respective countries.

In addition to the revolutionary leaders, the book also highlights the journeys of three extraordinary journalists—John Reed, Edgar Snow, and Herbert L. Matthews. Their firsthand accounts from the frontlines were pivotal in shaping the global understanding of these revolutions. By weaving together these six parallel narratives, the author vividly brings these exhilarating events to life. Three Revolutions explores key themes such as the nature of political power, the limits of idealism, and the critical role of the journalist, raising questions that are just as urgent today as they were a century ago.

Family of Spies

Kuehn, Christine. Family of Spies. 2025. 272p. ISBN 9781250344465.

The Kuehn family always had secrets, and Christine's father, Eberhard, rarely talked about his parents or his life as a teenager in Hawaii during the Second World War. Christine began to unravel her family's past when she received a bewildering phone call from a screenwriter, asking about her family’s connection to World War II and Nazi spies. Confronting her seventy-year-old father, Christine discovers that the Kuehns, a prominent Berlin family, initially embraced the rise of the Nazis as a means of escaping hard times. This led to Eberhard's sister, Ruth, starting an affair with Nazi leader Joseph Goebbels.

The affair ended violently when Goebbels discovered Ruth was half Jewish. Instead of executing her, he made a cold decision: he sent the entire Kuehn family to Hawaii to work as spies, shielding young Eberhard from the truth. From their home just miles from Pearl Harbor, Ruth and her parents established an intricate spy operation, passing crucial secrets to the Japanese. This intelligence contributed directly to the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. After Eberhard’s father was arrested and tried for his involvement, Eberhard finally learned the brutal truth, forcing him to make a fateful decision that would change the course of his family forever.

A compelling read for fans of World War II historical non-fiction, espionage thrillers, and true crime, Family of Spies will appeal strongly to readers interested in the attack on Pearl Harbor and the role of foreign agents operating on American soil during WWII. Kuehn's use of a dual timeline—the modern-day search for truth contrasted with the high-stakes 1940s spy operation—creates gripping suspense, making it an excellent choice for those who love deep, character-driven historical investigations.

We Fell Apart

Lockhart, E. We Fell Apart. 2025. 320p. ISBN 9780593899175.

It's always been Matilda and her mother, until it wasn't. Recently, her mother moved to Mexico to be with yet one more lover. But now, at 18, Matilda is done following her mother and stays with her mother's previous boyfriend, who's been more of a father to her than any of the others. Out of the blue, Matilda receives an invitation that reveals the existence of a father she has never met: Kingsley Cello, a reclusive, visionary artist. When he asks her to spend the summer at his sprawling seaside estate, Hidden Beach, Matilda accepts, hoping to discover a long-missing part of her own identity.

Instead of the reunion she imagined, Matilda arrives to find Kingsley Cello conspicuously absent. In his place, she encounters the strange collection of people who inhabit the crumbling sanctuary: Meer, her long-lost, openhearted brother; Brock, a former child star struggling with inner demons; and the wild, brooding Tatum, who clearly wants Matilda to leave immediately. With her father nowhere to be found, Matilda is forced to delve into the twisted heart of Hidden Beach to uncover the answers she desperately craves about her lineage and her father’s disappearance. She soon learns that secrets run thicker than blood, and blood runs like seawater in this isolated place. Everyone at Hidden Beach, she realizes, is lying.

This is a gripping read for fans of mystery and psychological Suspense that feature atmospheric settings and dark family secrets. Readers who enjoy narratives centered on found family, identity discovery, and manipulative relationships will find this book appealing. The book’s core appeal lies in its exploration of the complex bonds of blood versus the secrets that tear families apart, offering a rich, suspenseful drama with unreliable characters and a gothic, isolated backdrop. While a companion to We Were Liars, readers do not need to have read that book to appreciate We Fell Apart.

Of Flame and Fury

Bridge, Mikayla. Of Flame and Fury. 2025. 416p. ISBN 9780374393427. 

At seventeen, Kel Varra is already an accomplished phoenix rider. Working with her underdog team, the Crimson Howlers, Kel is determined to win the annual races and the prize money that would change their lives, allowing them to escape their circumstances. Unfortunately, one of their riders plummets to her death, and Kel must quickly find a replacement. Under the circumstances, Kel forms an uneasy alliance with her arrogant rival, Warren “Coup” Coupers. Despite their on-track tension and personal rivalry, she finds herself unable to get him out of her head.

As the competition intensifies, Kel's home is accidentally destroyed, forcing her to accept a job from a mysterious tech mogul. This individual shows an unsettling interest in her phoenix, Savita. Kel soon finds herself embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone she holds dear. As her feelings for Coup begin to change from resentment to something more, she must race against time to save them all and prevent her phoenix from being killed.

Fans of fantasy will enjoy this combination of the fantastic and technology. Featuring realistic characters and a fast moving plot, Of Flame and Fury delivers a compelling narrative where every choice matters.

Vampire Knight, vol. 2

 Matsuri, Hino. Vampire Knight, Vol. 2. 2007. 186p. ISBN 9781421511306. Available in the graphic novels sections of the Library.

It was revealed in Vampire Knight, Vol. 1 that vampires attend night school at the Academy. So what starts as a routine errand for the Headmaster takes a deadly turn when Yuki and Zero venture into town and are suddenly ambushed. Their attacker is a "Level E"—a vampire who has devolved into a mindless, bloodthirsty monster. Just as the situation turns dire, two elite Night Class students, Takuma Ichijo and Senri Shiki, intervene and swiftly slay the beast. The rescue leaves Yuki and Zero with more questions than answers: Why would vampires hunt their own kind?

To uncover the truth, Takuma and Senri extend a mysterious invitation to the two Guardians: meet them at the Night Class dormitory at midnight. As Yuki and Zero step into the lions' den, they are forced to confront the complex hierarchy and internal laws of the vampire world. This midnight meeting promises to reveal the chilling reality of the Level E threat and the high price of losing one's humanity in the world of the undead.

The story continues in Vampire Knight, Vol. 3.

Escape from Kabul: The Afghan Women Judges Who Fled the Taliban and Those They Left Behind

Bartlett, Karen. Escape from Kabul: The Afghan Women Judges Who Fled the Taliban and Those They Left Behind. 2025. 288p. ISBN 9781620978733.

For twenty years, as the United States supported the Afghan government, a courageous group of women worked to build a modern, democratic society. They became judges, lawyers, and leaders, tackling widespread corruption, challenging traditional gender norms, and fighting against violence. Their mission was to create a country where the rule of law and human rights were respected, and their work stood in direct opposition to the beliefs of the Taliban. However, when the U.S. withdrew its forces in August 2021, these educated and powerful women, who had been instrumental in shaping their country, were suddenly left in a position of extreme vulnerability and mortal danger.

This is the dramatic true story of their escape, a perilous journey aided by the global network of the International Association of Women Judges. The narrative not only details the extraordinary rescue but also reveals the tragic fates of those who were unable to flee. Beyond a simple account of events, the story serves as a sharp critique of the West for abandoning its allies and neglecting the cause of women's rights in the region. The account concludes with the recommendations of the judges themselves, who, despite everything, continue to hold hope for their beloved country.

Progress: How One Idea Built Civilization and Now Threatens to Destroy It

McDonald, Samuel. Progress: How One Idea Built Civilization and Now Threatens to Destroy It. 2025. 432p. ISBN 9781250278319.

Progress is power, and the narratives we construct about whether society is moving in the right or wrong direction hold immense potency. The modern story of progress has undoubtedly fueled remarkable human achievements: it has built cities, created vast wealth, spurred incredible innovation, and ushered in a unique new epoch in our planet's 4.5-billion-year history.

However, Progress argues that this widely accepted modern story of progress is now a dangerous fiction. This narrative shapes our understanding of what progress means and justifies whatever actions we take to achieve it, regardless of the ultimate cost. We continue to adhere to a set of destructive myths—about dominion, infinite growth, relentless extraction, and endless expansion—which, while fueling our historical success, now profoundly threaten our own survival and the existence of all species on a planet in crisis.

Progress offers a radical new perspective on the foundational myths of the modern world. Drawing on extensive interdisciplinary research spanning anthropology, history, philosophy, and geography, the author illuminates the destructive lineage of the current progress model and suggests an urgent alternative. For humanity to truly thrive, we must first dismantle, radically reimagine, and create anew what the very definition of progress means. 

This book is an essential read for anyone interested in environmental studies, global systems, economic philosophy, and critical geography. It will appeal to readers who engage with contemporary critiques of capitalism and climate change, offering a deeply researched, intellectual challenge to deeply held beliefs about societal development and sustainability.

The Codebreaker Girl

Nealon, Gosia. The Codebreaker Girl. 2024. 294p. ISBN 9781835255599.

Polish orphan Beata has just graduated as the first and only woman in her university course, and her singular ambition is to join the Cipher Bureau to save her country from invasion by cracking the Enigma code. However, her plans are violently upended as gunfire echoes across her hometown rooftops and Nazi boots march on the cobblestones. Forced underground, Beata and her team must continue their vital work in secret.

While working covertly, Beata meets with members of the underground British intelligence and is immediately captivated by the bright, sparkling eyes of one of the agents, Harry. His passion for cracking Enigma and his understanding of its importance to their shared future only steel her resolve to do what is right. But as the escalating war destroys everything Beata holds dear and tears her and Harry in different directions, their only hope for reunion is at the legendary home of British codebreakers: Bletchley Park. Carrying the final, crucial key to the Enigma code, and with the Nazis relentlessly pursuing her, Beata must keep her secrets safe, determine if she will ever see Harry again, and attempt to turn the tide of the war.

Readers who enjoy crucial, real-life intelligence operations behind the scenes will appreciate this story about a courageous, trailblazing woman in the male-dominated field of codebreaking. The story is driven by intense suspense, and includes the importance of Bletchley Park and the race against time to crack the Enigma machine.

The Teacher of Nomad Land: A World War II Story

Nayeri, Daniel. The Teacher of Nomad Land: A World War II Story. 2025. 196p. ISBN 9781646145669. 

In 1941, as German armies advanced across Europe, Iran found itself a neutral country occupied by British and Soviet forces to deprive the Germans of Iranian oil. Soldiers and spies fill its streets as tensions rise. Amid this turmoil, Babak and his younger sister become orphans following their father's untimely death. Fearing they will be separated, the two devise a plan for Babak to assume his father's former role as a teacher to nomadic tribes. With a chalkboard strapped to his back, he and his sister embark on a treacherous journey through the mountains to find the tribes during their annual migration.

During their perilous trek, the siblings encounter a Jewish boy who is in hiding from a Nazi spy. This chance meeting transforms their desperate escape into a shared race for survival against a new and even more dangerous threat. Set against the chaotic backdrop of World War II, this epic adventure explores whether these young people, from different creeds and nations, can overcome their differences to form a common bond and find safety together amidst the global conflict.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 29

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 29. 2023. 226p. ISBN 9781974746248. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

The confrontation between the Knights of the True Cross and the Exwires and the ultimate enemy, Satan, fully erupted on every front in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 28. Rin, bravely confronts Satan head-on, and although he is utterly destroyed in the initial clash, his unique demonic nature grants him the power to immediately reform and remain in the fight. This fierce, high-stakes battle forms the core of the ongoing global conflict, pushing the combatants to their absolute limits.

Simultaneously, a complex magical counter-plan is set in motion. Shemihaza begins a ritual designed to crystallize and trap Satan, a crucial operation in which Shiemi is destined to play a vital role. However, the conflict escalates exponentially when Satan undergoes a dramatic and terrifying transformation to the next level of his power. This shift is so immense that it begins to warp time itself, forcing everyone present to witness a horrifying and unimaginable future ...

The story continues in Blue Exorcist. Vol. 30.

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.

Owning It is an essential anthology of twenty-two autobiographical stories that capture the experience of growing up with a disability. It serves as a vital companion for young people with disabilities, who may often feel isolated, even when surrounded by supportive friends and family. This collection of stories offers a sense of shared experience, showcasing firsthand accounts of navigating common childhood challenges, from participating in school sports and dealing with the awkwardness of being given free items, to balancing hospital visits with a social life.

Owning It provides a powerful and much-needed perspective for both disabled and non-disabled readers. For children with disabilities, the stories offer a welcome sense of community and validation. For their non-disabled peers, the collection provides an invaluable "own-voice" perspective, helping to build empathy and understanding. Through these honest and intimate stories, the anthology creates a bridge of connection, highlighting what it's truly like to grow up with a disability.

Kid Olympians: Winter: True Tales of Childhood from Champions and Game Changers

Stevenson, Robin. Kid Olympians: Winter: True Tales of Childhood from Champions and Game Changers. 2025. 240p. ISBN 9781683693932.

All over the world, athletes dedicate their lives to breaking records and defying incredible odds to compete in the winter games—and many of these champions began dreaming and training when they were kids. Kid Olympians: Winter explores the childhood stories of these legendary athletes, providing an intimate look at their early dedication and drive.

The book highlights the surprising and inspiring beginnings of legends such as figure skater Michelle Kwan, who was so dedicated that she slept in her skating clothes to steal a few extra minutes before her pre-dawn lessons. Readers will also meet Cindy Ouellet, one of the few remarkable athletes to have competed in both the Winter and Summer Paralympics, and speed skater Apolo Ohno, who was initially inspired to take up the sport after seeing the speed skaters look like superheroes.

Featuring accessible, kid-friendly text and vibrant, full-color illustrations, this book is designed to inspire readers to dream bigger, faster, and higher than ever before. Readers who enjoy learning about young athletes and those who love sports biographies will find these stories to be motivating, featuring role models filled with dedication, hard work, and overcoming challenges. The focus on the early lives of famous winter sports stars makes it a highly appealing and encouraging book for aspiring competitors.

Naruto, Vol. 36: Cell Number 10

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 36: Cell Number 10. 2011. 192p. ISBN 9781421521725. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

The battle against the Akatsuki, which proceeds in Naruto, Vol. 35, reaches a fever pitch as Asuma’s new team and the former members of Cell Number 10 (Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji) confront Hidan. A fanatic and sadistic warrior, Hidan possesses a terrifying, ritualistic ability that makes him perhaps the most unstoppable foe the Konoha ninja have ever encountered. As the fight turns desperate, it becomes clear that this encounter could mean the tragic end for one of Naruto’s longest-standing and most beloved allies.

While the battle rages, the wider world is thrown into chaos as the Akatsuki finally begins to reveal its master plan for the Tailed Beasts. As Naruto pushes himself through grueling training to prepare for the growing threat, the loss on the battlefield forces the young ninja of the Leaf Village to grow up faster than they ever imagined. The lines are drawn, and the stage is set for a massive confrontation that will reshape the future of the ninja world.

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 37. 

Rising Tide

Shaara, Jeff. The Rising Tide. Book 1 of the World War II: 1939-1945 series. 2006. 576p. ISBN 9780345461414.

During 1941, as Hitler's armies swept across Europe, England stood as a lone holdout. The global conflict expanded dramatically when Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor drew America into the war. The United States joined its British ally to fight against Japanese conquest in the Pacific and to turn the tide against the German forces in Europe. The early battles of this new alliance were fought in the harsh deserts of North Africa and the rugged landscape of Sicily. It was here that new forms of warfare, like massive tank battles and the deployment of paratroopers, were tested in a way the world had never seen before. These campaigns began to shift the momentum of the war, paving the way for the decisive Allied invasion of France.

Rising Tide provides an intimate look at the heroic and tragic figures who shaped this conflict, from the well-known to the obscure. It paints a vivid picture of key military leaders, including the efficient administrator Dwight D. Eisenhower and his subordinates, such as the clashing personalities of George Patton and Bernard Montgomery. The narrative also features the brilliant German general Erwin Rommel, known as "the Desert Fox," who handed the Americans a humiliating early defeat. Through the perspectives of soldiers, from tank drivers to paratroopers, the story brings the battles to life in stunning detail, offering a deeper understanding of the individuals who fought in this monumental global war.

Grounded in archives and discussions with surviving veterans, Rising Tide vividly describes the North African and Sicilian campaigns, as well as the experiences of living through war. Fans of military history will appreciate this exploration of the Mediterranean as a battlefield during the Second World War. 

Gettysburg: Great Battles

Smith, Adam. Gettysburg: Great Battles. 2025. 662 minutes. ISBN 9781696618083.

The battle of Gettysburg, which occurred in the middle of the American Civil War, is often deemed to have been the high water mark of the Confederacy. In Gettysburg, a historical analysis of this battle in July 1863 places this confrontation between the Army of the Potomac and the Army of Virginia within the broader context of the Civil War. It explains how this unplanned and bloody encounter became a pivotal moment with dramatically high stakes for both the North and the South. In the years following the conflict, Gettysburg was then re-imagined and romanticized, becoming a microcosm of the war itself. This narrative, Gettysburg argues, served the interests of both sides: Confederates could believe that different tactical choices would have led to victory, while Northerners could attribute their win to valor rather than simply to superior resources.

The summary also emphasizes that the war and the Battle of Gettysburg were fundamentally about slavery. While the battle's history has been shaped by various interpretations, its true significance lies in its role in the ultimate defeat of the Confederacy. Gettysburg also highlights Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered just four months after the fighting, and his hope that the Union victory would lead to a "new birth of freedom." 

Fans of history will appreciate this overview of the battle, what led to it, and, more importantly, the impact it still has in American society. The ongoing historical debate about the battle continues to reflect a deeper contest over the meaning of this freedom.

The Champagne War

McIntosh, Fiona. The Champagne War. 2020. 413p. ISBN 9780143795452. 

In the summer of 1914, tensions that have been simmering for years flare into all-out conflict as the First World War begins. Vigneron Jerome Méa, certain he’ll be home by Christmas, heads off to war. His new bride, Sophie, a rebellious, fifth-generation champenoise (champagne maker), remains behind in Épernay, her ancestral manor in France. She is fiercely determined to ensure that the forthcoming vintages will stand as a testament to their love and the powerful resilience of the people of Épernay, especially its strong women. As the years of the Great War drag on, however, Sophie receives devastating news: authorities advise that Jerome is missing and presumed dead.

Meanwhile, when poison gas is first deployed in Belgium, British chemist Charles Nash immediately enlists. After being injured, he is brought to Reims, where Sophie has helped establish an underground hospital deep within the dark, ancient champagne cellars. In the confined, evocative darkness, their stirring emotions take both Sophie and Charles by surprise. While Sophie tirelessly battles to keep her vineyard operating through relentless bombings and the war’s hardships, a critical sugar shortage forces her to strike a dangerous bargain with an untrustworthy acquaintance. However, nothing will ultimately test her courage more than the final, harrowing news that filters through regarding the true fate of her heroic Jerome.

Fans of historical fiction and romance, particularly those set during World War I. will enjoy this story, which features a resilient, determined female protagonist and a narrative set against a unique, evocative historical backdrop. The Champagne War successfully combines themes of wartime sacrifice, lost love, moral compromise, and the perseverance of tradition and community during global conflict.

The Chimera

Roger, Matt. The Chimera. Book 2 of the Black Forces Shorts series. 2018. 132p. ISBN 9781980540281.

For months, a chilling secret has been hidden high in the mountains of Bhutan, within the ancient, abandoned depths of a monastery. Here, a sinister group of individuals is tirelessly slaving away at makeshift workstations to concoct a terrifying pathogen: The Chimera virus.

Meanwhile, Colt Griffin, an ambitious former Special Forces operative, is in the midst of a personal journey in Bhutan's Paro Valley, attempting to find himself before embarking on a career in government black operations. His solitude is shattered when he is contacted by the mysterious organization known as Black Force. Colt is informed that the paramilitary group responsible for creating the Chimera is about to escape the monastery with the virus, which could unleash global catastrophe. Despite his lack of formal experience in black operations, Colt is identified as the only person capable of successfully infiltrating and storming the isolated, heavily fortified monastery in time. His first unexpected mission becomes a brutal race against the clock, carrying the weight of the world, and it may very well be his last ...

Fans of military thrillers and high-octane action adventure enjoy the exotic, remote setting of Bhutan, which provides a unique and visually compelling backdrop for intense paramilitary action. The plot elements of a biological weapons threat, a secret organization, and relentless action make it a gripping read for anyone seeking a fast-paced story with global stakes.

Sin City, Vol. 2: A Dame to Kill For

Miller, Frank. Sin City, Vol. 2: A Dame to Kill For. 1993. 208p. ISBN 9781593072940

Dwight is trapped in a life of bleak despair, holding down a seedy gumshoe job while battling his own personal demons and relentless self-recrimination over past mistakes. His daily existence is a numb, gray hell, and he constantly yearns for a clean slate—one clear opportunity to pull himself out of his rut and reclaim a sense of passion or purpose, symbolized by his desire to "eel the fire, one more time. However, this longing is constantly undercut by a desperate need for control, driven by the fear that any lapse will unleash a monstrous, destructive side of himself.

Dwight's fragile state of control is instantly threatened when he receives a call from Ava, a former lover. This single event shatters the miserable equilibrium he has maintained, suggesting that the chance he longed for might finally be presenting itself—but at the highest possible cost. Rapidly descending back into the dangerous, chaotic life he has tried so desperately to keep suppressed, Dwight must choose between the monotony of his safe, miserable existence and the thrilling, but deadly, fire he craves.

Readers who enjoy hard-boiled crime fiction and dark, moody psychological thrillers will enjoy this book. Its intense focus on a troubled protagonist grappling with moral corruption and self-control will appeal to those who appreciate a noir aesthetic, featuring a detective figure, a mysterious femme fatale, and themes of regret and redemption.

The Intelligence Explosion: When AI Beats Humans at Everything

Barrat, James. The Intelligence Explosion: When AI Beats Humans at Everything. 2025. 336p. ISBN 9781250355027.

With the rapid growth of generative artificial intelligence, there has been a significant rise in both widespread enthusiasm and deep-seated fears about these new technologies. In this era of unprecedented change, it's more important than ever for humans to understand the full range of AI's impacts, both positive and negative. The Intelligence Explosion aims to give readers the tools to navigate this complex landscape. It dives into the challenges of generative AI, revealing how tech companies have built systems that are often prone to errors and are impossible for even their creators to fully understand.

Through insightful interviews with AI pioneers, The Intelligence Explosion highlights the unstable path of AI development and the stark contrast between its potential for modest benefits and its capacity for catastrophic consequences. This is an essential guide for anyone trying to make sense of the current technological revolution. Combining real-world examples with sharp critique offers a bold and eye-opening look at the realities of AI's evolution, helping readers grapple with its profound implications.

Holding: A Memoir About Mothers, Drugs, and Other Comforts

Frisbie Brogan, Karleigh. Holding: A Memoir About Mothers, Drugs, and Other Comforts. 2025. 304p. ISBN 9781586424121.

Always seeking her mother's love and never finding it, Karleigh felt that something was missing. One of six children in a reconstituted family, Karleigh attempts to escape her familial bonds through unsafe activities, culminating in becoming a junkie. Desperate for attention and care and resenting herself for it, Karleigh still finds herself drawn back to her mother. Holding is Karleigh's memoir that explores her painful journey through heroin addiction and the complex mother-daughter relationships that shaped her life. It offers a raw and honest look at her experiences, including the two years she spent living with her boyfriend's parents, Wayne and Glorianne, while hiding her addiction. During this time, Karleigh formed a deep but troubled bond with Glorianne, who became a surrogate mother figure. Simultaneously, Glorianne, an adoptee, was on her own quest to find her birth mother, creating a shared sense of longing and connection between the two women.

Ultimately, Karleigh's story is a powerful account of her struggle to break free from the cycle of addiction and deceit. It chronicles her path to sobriety, her efforts to mend the broken trust with her own mother, and her search for self-acceptance. The memoir is a deeply personal and universal story, offering insights into the complexities of family, addiction, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Not the Worst Friend in the World

Reillihan, Anne. Not the Worst Friend in the World. 2024. 272p. ISBN 9780823454792.

It's the thirty-fourth day of sixth grade, and Lou (only her grandmother calls her Louise) is desperate to rewind time. She deeply regrets the terrible things she said to her best friend, Francie, on the ninth day of school, and wishes she could go back to a time when their friendship was still intact. Lou's guilt and longing for redemption are suddenly interrupted when a new girl, Cece Clark-Duncan, passes her a mysterious note. The note claims that Cece has been kidnapped, and Lou sees this as an opportunity to prove she's not a bad friend by helping the new girl.

As Lou digs into the strange situation, she quickly realizes that Cece's family life is more complicated than a simple kidnapping. Lou becomes increasingly anxious, facing a moral dilemma: how can she help Cece without causing more harm? How can she be a better friend than she was to Francie? The situation forces Lou to confront the possibility that her attempt to be a good friend to Cece could result in her losing yet another friend in the process.

A light and fast read involving a mystery, investigations, and relationships, Not the Worst Friend in the World delivers realistic characters who are growing up and learning that the world can feel very lonely if you don't have friends. The theme of evolving friendship is explored and reaches a satisfactory solution. Fans of sleuthing adventures will appreciate this book.

The Forest of a Thousand Eyes

Hardinge, Francis. The Forest of a Thousand Eyes. 2024. 128p. ISBN 9781529090802.

The human community living on and within a deteriorating Wall faces a constant threat from a relentless, advancing Forest. Eleven-year-old Feather, accompanied by her scaled ferret, Sleek, must accomplish a crucial mission: she must navigate the dangers of the encroaching Forest and its creatures to return a precious spyglass to its proper location after she removed it and unwittingly gave it away to a thief. Her journey is a perilous one, as she must evade the Forest's grasping "tentacles" and the mysterious beasts that lurk within its depths.

As Feather makes her way, she not only develops her own resilience but also encounters a variety of people living in different parts of the Wall, and she realizes there is life outside the Wall, and other human settlements exist. Humans may be able to combine their resources together to better survive the threats of the forest beyond the wall.

Their unique stories and experiences begin to change her perspective. Through these interactions, she starts to open her own mind, and by extension, the minds of her community, to new possibilities and horizons that exist beyond the limited world they have always known.

Vampire Knight, Vol. 1

Matsuri, Hino. Vampire Knight, Vol. 1. 2007. 192p. ISBN 9781421508221. Available in the graphic novels sections of the Library.

Ten years ago, Yuki Cross was saved from a vampire attack, but the trauma left her with no memory of her life before that moment. Adopted by the headmaster of Cross Academy, she now serves as one of the school's Guardians, working alongside her troubled companion, Zero. Cross Academy operates under a unique and secretive system, educating two distinct groups of students: the Day Class and the Night Class.

The school's delicate balance is most apparent at twilight, when the Day Class returns to their dorms and crosses paths with the Night Class on their way to school. Yuki Cross and her partner, Zero Kiryu, are tasked with maintaining order and silence during this transition, serving as the school's Guardians. Their primary and most critical duty is to shield the human students of the Day Class from the Academy's dangerous, dark secret: the entire Night Class is composed of vampires! Yuki must protect the humans while navigating her own complicated relationship with the secretive, beautiful students of the Night Class and uncovering the truth of her lost past ...

Manga readers will enjoy classic tropes such as the love triangle, secret societies, and the forbidden romance between humans and supernatural beings. Its appeal lies in its dark, romantic atmosphere, the intense mystery surrounding the protagonist's lost memory, and the constant tension between the dangerous Night Class and the protected Day Class.

The story continues in Vampire Knight, Vol. 2.

This Is for Everyone: The Unfinished Story of the World Wide Web

Berners-Lee, Tim. This Is for Everyone: The Unfinished Story of the World Wide Web. 2025. 400p. ISBN 9780374612467.

Sir Tim Berners-Lee is often considered the most influential inventor of the modern world. He stands apart from his contemporaries like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs because he chose to give his groundbreaking creation, the World Wide Web, away for free. This decision fueled its global adoption, transforming humanity into the first fully digital species that uses the web for everything from work and connection to quarreling and dreaming. In This is for Everyone, Berners-Lee recounts the origins of this iconic invention, tracing his journey from a young engineer at CERN, the European Laboratory for Particle Physics, where he conceived the astonishing idea of adding hyperlinks to the nascent Internet.

This is for Everyone not only tells the story of how the web launched an era of creativity and collaboration but also confronts the powerful, negative forces it unleashed, such as the imperilment of truth, threats to privacy, and the polarization of public discourse. Humor and candor to provide a gripping, insider's view of the digital world's rise. Furthermore, the book offers a vital guide for the future, presenting a crucial perspective on the risks and possibilities brought by artificial intelligence and showing how our digital lives can be reengineered for human flourishing rather than simply for profit or power.

This is a must-read for anyone interested in technology history and the origins of the Internet, offering a candid, first-hand account from the person who actually built the World Wide Web. Entrepreneurs and computer science students will find inspiration in his story of invention and his radical choice to forgo personal commercial gain for the greater good. Finally, readers who are concerned about digital ethics, privacy, and the impact of AI on society will appreciate Berners-Lee's vision for reforming the digital world.

DONE - Wankernomics: A Deep-Dive Into Workplace Bullsh*ttery

Schloeffel, James and Charles Firth. Wankernomics: A Deep-Dive Into Workplace Bullsh*ttery. 2025. 256p. ISBN 9781399828482.

Wankernomics is a satirical guide to surviving modern corporate culture, aimed at anyone who feels lost in a sea of business jargon. The book mocks the use of buzzwords like "synergies" and "end-to-end solutions," highlighting how these phrases often obscure rather than clarify meaning. It's for employees who find themselves questioning the purpose of endless meetings and the confusing, jargon-filled language used by their colleagues.

Wankernomics promises to equip readers with the tools they need to navigate this perplexing world. Through humor, it teaches how to master passive-aggressive emails, use catchphrases like "circle back" and "moving forward" effectively, and even leverage a ridiculous LinkedIn profile to get ahead. Designed for those who want to outwit their coworkers and succeed in an office environment without actually understanding the corporate lingo, Wankernomics delivers a not so subtle critique of our current work culture and its propensity to expand the amount of pointless tasks and meetings to justify its own existence. 

Exit Strategy

Wells, Martha. Exit Strategy. Book 4 of the Murderbot Diaries. 2018. 172p. ISBN 9781250191854.

Murderbot is a highly efficient security unit, or SecUnit, that was never programmed with the capacity for empathy or care. Despite this inherent lack of feeling, the SecUnit makes a crucial and deeply problematic decision to help the only human who ever treated it with respect, Dr. Mensah—a choice it suspects must be a significant "system glitch." After traversing the vast expanse of the galaxy to unearth the truth about both its own forgotten murderous history and the illegal activities of the monolithic GrayCris Corporation, Murderbot is now heading back to its base of operations.

Murderbot's critical mission is to assist Dr. Mensah in submitting the damning evidence it collected, which is crucial to preventing the GrayCris Corporation from destroying additional colonial settlements in its relentless, profitable pursuit of resources. However, this high-stakes endeavor is fraught with peril as Dr. Mensah is kidnapped by GrayCris and finds herself trapped on a space station. Despite its misgivings, Murderbot decides to rescue the doctor, while knowing that being captured will mean death or, even worse, analysis in a lab to figure out how it escaped its original programming. With the stake this high, Murderbot is one mistake away from losing the independence it savors!

Readers who enjoy fast-paced, action-packed science fiction and space operas will find Exit Strategy highly entertaining. It is perfectly suited for those who appreciate a unique, snarky, and self-aware AI protagonist whose inner monologue drives the narrative. Fans of stories involving corporate espionage, battles against ruthless megacorporations, and themes of identity, humanity, and found family will be drawn to Murderbot’s reluctant and dangerous mission to do the right thing. The mix of thrilling adventure and deep internal character development offers a satisfying read!

Mystralhaven: The Mossbringer

Kaiser, Ron. Mystralhaven: The Mossbringer. 2025. 262p. ISBN 978-1515458333.

Baz has arrived, a figure prophesied for her immense power, far surpassing that of anyone around her. She has the potential to be a great leader, but with her mother's death, she is left without a guide to help her understand and control her growing abilities. The world around her is a dangerous place, with different factions vying to control her and her abilities. The monks want to use her for their own purposes, the Borderforges seek to enslave her, and the very people she could save fear her.

With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, Baz must decide who to trust. She is drawn to Rendwyll, a being made more of sand than flesh, who offers to help her navigate her newfound powers. But can she truly trust someone so unusual to guide her? The answer to that question could determine the survival of everyone she meets, as she struggles to master her abilities before others can use them for their own ends.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 28

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 28. 2022. 220p. ISBN 9781974740734. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following her withdrawal with the Gregorii in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 27, Shiemi faces her old enemy, Amaimon, the demon king of earth, who drastically underestimates the power she has recently gained. For Shiemi to fully embrace her destiny, she must recognize and utilize her own true strength in this battle. 

Meanwhile, back in the human world of Assiah, the fate of the entire world hangs in the balance as Satan and his demonic forces prepare for a massive showdown against Mephisto and the Knights of the True Cross. To prepare for this decisive conflict, the Exwires receive enchanted power-ups and finalize their battle strategy. Rin, who is committed to defeating Satan, is part of the vanguard team tasked with engaging the enemy directly. The time has finally arrived for Rin to fulfill his long-standing promise and use his unique powers to confront and overcome Satan, marking a critical turning point in the war between worlds ...

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 29.

The Coming Storm: Power, Conflict, and Warnings from History

Westad, Odd Arne. The Coming Storm: Power, Conflict, and Warnings from History. 2026. 256p. ISBN 9781250410283.

For decades, the majority of the global population has lived within a remarkably stable and predictable international order presided over by one or two superpowers. However, that era of predictability is over. An increasing number of Great Powers—including the U.S., China, and Russia—jostle for regional supremacy and competitive advantages in AI, nuclear technology, space, and trade. The world has become dangerously fragile, and the outbreak of a global war among today’s powers is becoming increasingly likely. Such a conflict would reach a magnitude of devastation never before seen in human history.

To navigate this combustible new terrain, The Coming Storm examines "eerie parallels" of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This was a time defined by rising nationalism and populism, escalating tariffs, and a widespread feeling that globalization had failed. Much like today, the public discourse was dominated by anxieties over immigration and terrorism, with citizens often blaming foreign nations for domestic hardships. By analyzing these historical echoes, The Coming Storm provides a sobering look at how similar patterns led to catastrophe in the past and offers a vital framework for understanding the existential threats facing the modern world.

Fans of history will enjoy learning about the structural causes of global conflict. The Coming Storm offers a political philosophy that includes a deeply researched warning for policymakers and concerned citizens alike about the precarious state of peace in the twenty-first century.

DONE - What Is Free Speech?: The History of a Dangerous Idea

Dabhoiwala, Fara. What Is Free Speech?: The History of a Dangerous Idea. 2025. 480p. ISBN 9780241347478.

The meaning of "free speech" is a highly contested topic across the globe. While it is celebrated as a core value in Western nations, there is significant internal disagreement about its scope and limitations. In contrast, many other cultures, including those in China, India, and the Islamic world, often suppress unorthodox views on politics, religion, and sex. This global discord is complicated by evolving power imbalances, cultural taboos, rapid technological advancements, and a fast-changing media landscape, making the origin and purpose of free speech critical questions.

Modern ideas of free expression did not emerge as an absolute principle, but were invented in Britain around 1700. The history of this concept is a complex story shaped by the lives of countless individuals over 300 years, from slaves and imperialists to poets and revolutionaries, across Europe, North America, and South Asia. By examining this intricate history, What is Free Speech? leads to better understand our contemporary challenges and move beyond simple platitudes, allowing for a deeper consideration of free speech as a global issue and suggesting fresh possibilities for its future.

Catching Fire

Collins, Susan. Catching Fire. Book 2  of the Hunger Games series. 2009. 391p. ISBN 9780439023498. Available at FIC COL on the library shelves. 

After her improbable victory in the Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen finds herself miraculously alive alongside her fellow District 12 tribute, Peeta Mellark. Though she has returned to her family and her friend, Gale, nothing feels right. Gale is emotionally distant, and Peeta has completely turned his back on her. Meanwhile, whispers of a rebellion against the Capitol have begun to circulate, and Katniss and Peeta are at the center of the rumors, having unwittingly sparked the unrest.

To her shock, Katniss realizes she has ignited a rebellion that she's unsure she can, or even should, stop. As the time for the Capitol's cruel Victory Tour approaches, the stakes become terrifyingly high. She and Peeta must convince the Capitol, without a doubt, that their love for each other is genuine, as the horrifying consequences for failing to do so are unimaginable.

The story concludes in Mockingjay. 

The Tribe

Rogers, Matt. The Tribe. Book 3 of the Black Force Shorts series. 2018. 140p. ISBN 9781980659112.

Former government agent Sam Rollins finds himself imprisoned on a snowy mountainside in the Peruvian Andes, facing a lifetime sentence. His incarceration stems from botching a critical mission concerning a secretive indigenous group while working for a black operations division of the U.S. military. Disavowed by his government, his life is deemed forfeit after this catastrophic failure, leaving him isolated and resigned to his fate in his cell.

Rollins' desolate existence is violently interrupted one freezing afternoon by a stranger who mercilessly defeats the guards to reach his cell. The intruder identifies himself as Jason King and delivers a sharp, imperative message: “My name is Jason King, and I’m here to get you out. You need to finish the job.” This forceful rescue yanks Rollins back into the deadly world of covert operations, compelling him to face the very mission failure that originally cost him his freedom.

This story is tailor-made for readers who love gritty, espionage-fueled action thrillers with a focus on dark government secrets and morally compromised protagonists. It will appeal strongly to fans of complex narratives involving "deniable assets," high-altitude adventure, and prison-break scenarios. Readers drawn to the raw, visceral intensity of the murky world of black ops will find the character of Sam Rollins—a betrayed operative forced back into service—immediately compelling. The promise of finishing a mysterious, dangerous job in the dramatic setting of the Andes ensures a fast-paced, suspenseful read.

Naruto, Vol. 35: The New Two

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 35: The New Two. 2011. 200p. ISBN 9781421520032. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Following their confrontation with Sasuke in Naruto, Vol. 34, Kakashi works with Naruto to intensify his training regimen. Meanwhile, the ominous Akatsuki organization methodically targets individuals who possess the power of the Tailed Beasts. The Akatsuki's relentless pursuit of these powerful entities casts a dark shadow over the ninja world, threatening the lives and stability of various nations.

As the Akatsuki close in their next target, Lady Tsunada wonders what is the Akatsuki's sinister agenda. The clash between Naruto's determined efforts to grow stronger and the Akatsuki's calculated and dangerous operations sets the stage for a potentially devastating confrontation, highlighting the ever-present threat posed by this shadowy group and the vulnerability of those who hold the Tailed Beasts within them.

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 36.