You'll Do: A History of Marrying for Reasons Other Than Love

Zug, Maria. You'll Do: A History of Marrying for Reasons Other Than Love. 2024. 336p. ISBN 9781586423742.

Americans have historically placed an exceptionally high value on marriage, often promoting it as a solution to various societal problems. This has led to a system where marriage is incentivized and its benefits are idealized, sometimes to the point of overlooking or excusing harmful behaviors and systemic injustices. Throughout history, marriage has been used as a tool to address issues like racial inequality, population growth, and economic stability, with laws and social pressures designed to encourage its practice.

However, this reliance on marriage as a cure-all has created a significant problem: it has allowed individuals and society to ignore or downplay deep-seated inequities, such as gender and race-based discrimination, sexual violence, and financial disparities. By promoting marriage as a solution, governments and society have abdicated their responsibility to directly address these issues, effectively using marriage as a convenient excuse for inaction. The argument that women's influence through marriage was equivalent to voting rights exemplifies this tendency to use marriage as a substitute for addressing fundamental rights and systemic problems.

Readers who enjoy history and would like to know more about the institution of marriage will appreciate this well-researched book and will gain an appreciation for the role marriage played in our society.

Button Pusher

Page, Tyler. Button Pusher. 2022. 256p. ISBN 9781250758347. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

As a child, Tyler struggles with inattention in school and often acts out impulsively, leading adults to label him a troublemaker. However, as the story unfolds, Tyler's underlying curiosity, creativity, and artistic talent consistently reveal themselves, highlighting the disconnect between his behavior and his true nature. He doesn't intentionally cause problems but often feels a lack of control over his actions. He is simply unable to anticipate the consequences of his action, or even impose self-control.

As Tyler learns about ADHD, and begins to take Ritalin, he learns more about himself and his executive functioning skills. Button Pusher vividly portrays the challenges and realities of navigating childhood with ADHD, from the initial diagnosis to the various stages of treatment and self-discovery. Tyler's raw and honest journey provides an enlightening perspective on what it's like to experience the world with a differently wired brain.

Button Pusher is a memoir-based graphic novel that offers a personal and relatable account of growing up with ADHD through the experiences of its protagonist. It invites readers to empathize with the internal struggles of individuals with ADHD and to gain a deeper understanding of their unique ways of processing information and interacting with the world.

The Faerie Isle: Tales and Traditions of Ireland’s Forgotten Folklore

Quinn, Sine and Dermot Flynn, illustrator. The Faerie Isle: Tales and Traditions of Ireland’s Forgotten Folklore. 2025. 80p. ISBN 9781536240719.

The Faerie Isle unveils a captivating world of Irish folklore, introducing readers to fifteen extraordinary fae beings, ranging from mischievous leprechauns to powerful giants. The book warns of the enchanting yet perilous selkies, who dance ashore every ninth day, and the ill-omened sight of a mermaid combing her hair. It also cautions against the Charmer, whose seductive words can leave a person lovesick and heartbroken. These tales, inspired by the Irish National Folklore Collection, paint a vivid picture of a world where magic and danger intertwine.

Through dramatic illustrations and detailed descriptions of each fae's traits and origins, the book provides an illuminating glimpse into the lesser-known heroes and villains of Irish mythology. It serves as a treasured keepsake, offering a rich tapestry of stories that explore the complexities of the fae world. This collection not only entertains but also preserves the cultural heritage of Irish folklore, making it a valuable resource for anyone fascinated by the mystical creatures and their enduring influence.