Lists

Native Voices to the Front

Young adult readers of Indigenous literature, rejoice! Whether you're a fan of thrillers, romance, horror, or realistic fiction, these recently published books will see you through.

Tags

• Teens
• Indigenous & Native Voices

Indigenous and Native American Books: Babies-PreK

These are some of our favorite books to share with babies through preschoolers featuring Indigenous and Native American people and stories. We focused on books with Indigenous authors and illustrators.

Tags

• Kids
• Indigenous & Native Voices

Indigenous and Native American Books: Grades K-2

These are some of our favorite books to share with kids in grades K-2 featuring Indigenous and Native American people. We focused on books with Indigenous authors and illustrators.

Tags

• Kids
• Indigenous & Native Voices

Indigenous and Native American Books: Grades 3-5

These are some of our favorite books to share with kids in grades 3-5 that feature Indigenous and Native American people, stories, and information . We focused on Indigenous authors and illustrators.

Tags

• Kids
• Indigenous & Native Voices

What Is Fake News? Books for Kids

These books explore how to find reliable sources, and how to spot fake news, disinformation and misinformation for kids in preK through grade 7.

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• Kids

Spooky Reads

From slashers to haunted houses, these books are perfect for any spooky occasion.

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• Adults
• Horror

The Secret Garden

For lovers of the cottage-core lifestyle and aesthetic, these titles explore the joys of simple living and the magic that can be found when we take a step back from the rush of city life.

Tags

• Adults

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is annually celebrated from September 15 to October 15 in the United States for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Celebrate the month by reading an assortment of books from Latin American authors.

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• Adults
• Latine Voices

Perspectives of Hispanic Heritage on Screen

This list represents only a small selection of the vast diversity of themes, perspective, and genres of Latine filmmaking and television. It's a great place to get you started.

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• Adults
• Latine Voices
• Movies & TV

Books for Nature Lovers

Some fiction, some nonfiction, all great books for those who love the outdoors.

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• Adults
• Nature & the Environment

Hispanic-Centered Books for Kids: Babies-PreK

Books featuring Hispanic characters, settings, and stories, with a focus on Hispanic authors and illustrators.

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• Kids
• Latine Voices

Hispanic-Centered Books for Kids: Grades 3-5

These books feature Hispanic characters, settings, and stories, with a focus on Hispanic authors and illustrators.

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• Kids
• Latine Voices

Hispanic-Centered Books for Kids: Grades K-2

These books feature Hispanic characters, settings, and stories, with a focus on Hispanic authors and illustrators.

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• Kids
• Latine Voices

Perspectives of Hispanic Heritage on Screen for Family Viewing

Enjoy this list of movies and TV series. Age recommendations provided by commonsensemedia.org.

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• Kids
• Latine Voices
• Movies & TV

Celebrating Stories of Latin-American Teens

Read these recently published, heartfelt, and engaging young adult novels that put Latin-American heritage into the spotlight all year.

Tags

• Teens
• Latine Voices

Fair Housing in Skokie: Past and Present

Recommended reading list from Emily England, museum manager at the Skokie Heritage Museum. "This list is inspired by our June 2024 talk on fair housing and the experiences of the first Black homebuyers in Skokie. These resources expand on the wider history of housing discrimination against primarily Black Americans. A full history of fair housing would include the stories of many more protected classes and peoples' fights for civil rights."

Tags

• Adults
• Black Voices
• History
• Social Justice

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Nature in Your Community (Episode 17)

There's a wealth of natural beauty right here in our community. These books are designed to help kids and families learn about and embrace the outdoors.

Tags

• Kids
• Nature & the Environment

Book Worms Presents: Murder

Every summer, our Book Worms teen group comes together to make the library more awesome! This year, they focused on putting together a display and list of their favorite young adult crime, thriller, and mystery books.

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• Teens
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Sibling Dynamics (Episode 16)

These fiction and nonfiction books for all ages explore the effects siblings have on our families and our lives.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Taking Care of You and Your Partner (Episode 15)

These books explore how we can better take care of ourselves and protect our relationship with our partner, as well as help our kids develop self-care skills.

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• Adults
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Sherlock without Arthur

"Marry him or murder him or do whatever you like." Arthur Conan Doyle’s glib reply to a theatrical director who wanted to bring Sherlock Holmes to the London stage highlights an essential truth: right from the get-go, other people cared about the character David Grann calls a “Victorian superhero” far more than his creator did. “Sherlockians” started writing stories featuring Holmes while Conan Doyle was still alive–homages or pastiches or fan fiction or what have you. These are some of the best.

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

If You Liked 'Bridgerton'...

You may like these books and movies that are similar to the hit Netflix series.

Tags

• Adults
• Romance

Vampires are Back and Better Than Ever

Sink your teeth into these recent teen books about blood lust, forbidden romance, and monstrous murders--especially if you're coming off a Twilight kick and need something to follow up after your trip to Forks.

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• Teens
• Summer Reading
• Mysteries & Thrillers

BOOMbox at Home: Circles

Who says circles are pointless? That’s how we’re going to roll all summer! Each week in the BOOMbox, we’ll explore circles in a new way. Take the BOOMbox home with you by enjoying these books and STEAM kits.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading
• Science & Technology

Pride Reads

Celebrate Pride Month with a great book!

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• Adults
• Summer Reading
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Pride Documentaries

Celebrate Pride Month with these illuminating and informative documentaries.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices
• Movies & TV

Pride Movies

Celebrate Pride Month with these critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films from around the world.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices
• Movies & TV

Pride TV Series

Celebrate Pride Month with these binge-worthy shows.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices
• Movies & TV

Immigrant Stories: In Their Own Words

In celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month, these memoirs highlight the experiences of immigrants from all over the world.

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• Adults
• Biography & Memoir
• Families & Relationships
• Global Perspectives
• Social Justice

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Burnout (Episode 14)

These books explore the feelings of burnout so many face. Pragmatism, empathy, commiseration, and advice for making welcome changes are common themes throughout this list.

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Beginner's Guide to Self-Help: Staff Favorites

Library staff share some of their favorite self-help titles.

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• Adults
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Health & Wellness

Let's Go on an Adventure!

Whether you are diving into a fiction book featuring time traveling, magic, and distant places, or traveling vicariously through nonfiction, we have selected a variety of titles to satisfy your wanderlust this summer and beyond.

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• Adults
• Summer Reading

Summer Sleuths

We've selected a variety of mysteries to enjoy during the summer and beyond.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Summer Lovin'

Enjoy one or more of these romance novels this summer and beyond.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Romance

Suspense and Thrillers for the Summer

Enjoy this variety of suspense and thriller novels during the summer and beyond.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Summer Chills

In the mood for horror and spooky stories? Enjoy these books this summer and beyond.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Horror

Movie Watching for the Summer

We've got you covered with these titles for an awesome stay-at-home movie night.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Summer Reading
• Movies & TV

TV Series Watching for the Summer

For those long summer nights, check out these ideas for watching.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Movies & TV

Breezy Reads 2024 (Grades K-2)

Breezy Reads are our picks for the youngest readers in grades K-2, including picture books, early readers, and chapter books.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Cool Reads 2024 (Grades 3-5)

Magic, mysteries, misfits, and mayhem are just a tasty morsel of what you’ll encounter in this year’s list of great fiction, graphic novels, and nonfiction for kids in grades 3-5.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Hot Summer Reads 2024 (Grades 6-8)

Explore the winding streets of Paris and Berlin, brave the dark forest of a handsome demon, run away from monster wyrms in a postapocalyptic world, and more. All of these stories are waiting for you.

Tags

• Teens
• Summer Reading

Hope for the Planet

We could all use a little hope to counter climate change anxiety. These books describe the efforts, inventions, and policy changes aimed at saving the planet, and suggest what you, too, can do.

Tags

• Adults
• Nature & the Environment
• Science & Technology

Climate Emergency

In 2013, the United Nations and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a globally peer reviewed report that concluded, "climate change is real and human activities, largely the release of polluting gases from burning fossil fuel (coal, oil, gas), is the main cause." Here are some books to help make sense of the impact of climate change.

Tags

• Adults
• Nature & the Environment
• Science & Technology

Embrace Nature

Whether the nature you know is outside your back door or in a remote wilderness destination, there is endless beauty and wonder to be celebrated in the natural world. Skokie library staff share some favorite books about nature and the benefits of getting outdoors.

Tags

• Adults
• Nature & the Environment

Autism Acceptance Month

Here are a few books that I hope will serve as both windows and mirrors for all who read them, just as they have for me.

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• Adults
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Autism Acceptance

Selected in honor of Autism Acceptance Month, these books were written by autistic adults, autistic parents of children on the autism spectrum, and neurotypical parents of autistic children who are also advocates for the neurodiversity movement. Andrew selected the adult titles, Grace the teen titles, and Holly the children's titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

BOOMbox at Home: Space

As a lead up to the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, the BOOMbox has been focused on all things space since January. Enjoy these books about space!

Tags

• Kids
• Nature & the Environment
• Science & Technology

Feline Films

Grab your catnip of choice, get comfy with your mini Tiger, and enjoy these kitty favorites.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Parenting Myths (Episode 12)

These books help to dispel (or maybe add to) common myths of parenthood and bring different perspectives on challenges caregivers and birthing people face.

Tags

• Adults
• Families & Relationships

Not All about Hogwarts: Teen Books Set in Magic Schools

Recent young adult chapter books and graphic novels set in academies for magic and witchcraft for those of us who want to explore beyond the sorting hat.

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• Teens
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Understanding Artificial Intelligence

There's a lot of information out there on artificial intelligence (AI). Here are some resources to help you wrap your mind around this complicated topic.

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• Adults
• Science & Technology

Muslim Picture Books for Kids (PreK-Grade 2)

These picture books that feature Muslim kids and families are great for sharing with young kids.

Tags

• Kids
• Muslim Voices

Muslim Stories for Kids (Grades 3-5)

These books for kids in grades 3-5 feature Muslim kids and families.

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• Kids
• Muslim Voices

Oscar Nominations 2024

Here are some of this year's Academy Award nominees that you can check out and watch at home.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: When Things Get Scary (Episode 11)

These books will help and inspire you and your family to find ways to process the hard moments in life and to empathize with the suffering of others in mindful and constructive ways.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Read It before You See It in 2024

These books are being adapted for film or TV shows. Read them before the shows are released!

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Oscar Nominees 2024: From the Pages to the Screen

Many of the 2024 Oscar nominees have been adapted from books. Take a look at these books if you would like to familiarize yourself with the original source material or learn more about a topic or person related to the nominated films.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Art & Entertainment
• Biography & Memoir

They're Right Behind You! New Murder Books for Teens

Puzzles, axe murders, and cold cases are abound in these young adult thrillers and mysteries all published in 2023 and perfect for fans of Jessica Goodman, Holly Jackson, and Tiffany Jackson.

Tags

• Teens
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Not Your Father's Westerns

Move over, Zane Grey. These westerns go beyond the gunslinging cowboy plot with underrepresented perspectives and nontraditional storylines.

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• Adults
• Historical Fiction
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Boundaries (Episode 10)

These books will help you and your child think about personal and family boundaries in varied, important ways.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

2023 Staff Picks: Mystery, Suspense, and Thrillers

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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Dark Academia: Knowledge Can Be Deadly

Dark academia fiction typically addresses a variety of social issues, characters who have an academic or obsessive pursuit of knowledge, and a cast of morally ambiguous characters, commonly seen through an Eurocentric lens. If you are looking for books that go beyond the cookie-cutter plot of Donna Tart's The Secret History, give these titles a try.

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Canine Cinema

Looking to spend some quality time with Fido without leaving the couch? Microwave the popcorn and fetch the milk bones. I have dog-approved movie suggestions for you and your family.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Books about Connection and Belonging

The recent U.S. Surgeon General's advisory report “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” offers a compelling reminder of our fundamental need for social connection. These books from our collection explore the ways in which strong personal and community connections enrich our lives, fostering deeper relationships, better health, and a greater sense of belonging.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

2023 LitLounge Book Discussion Titles

LitLounge is our social book discussion group, brought to you in partnership with Morton Grove Public Library. We get together the second Wednesday of every month (please see the library calendar for registration information). Here are the list books we discussed in 2023.

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• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Beginner's Guide to Historical Fiction: Staff Favorites

Enjoy the variety of times and cultures in this collection of favorite staff novels based in the past.

Tags

• Adults
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Historical Fiction

Heartstopping Good Reads for Alice Oseman Fans

Volume 5 of Alice Oseman's universally beloved series Heartstopper is out soon! In the meantime (or after you've binged it), here is a mix of young adult chapter books and graphic novels that give the same feels of queer joy and adorable romance that Nick and Charlie provide.

Tags

• Teens

2023 Movie Discussion Titles

Each month we screen a movie and then talk about it. These are the films we discussed in 2023.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Failure and Empathy (Episode 9)

These books dive deep into changing our relationship with failure and learning how to build empathy and resilience so we can better accept ourselves and others.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

2023 Staff Picks for Babies-PreK

These are books we think grown-ups will love to share with the littlest readers in their lives. They range from silly to unusual to deeply meaningful and everything in-between.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Grades K-2 Picture Books

Many kids in grades K-2 love to share picture books with their grown-ups, and these books were specially chosen for this age group. Also check out the 2023 list for readers, chapter books, and nonfiction for grades K-2.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Grades K-2 Readers, Chapter Books and Nonfiction

These are some of our favorite 2023 readers, chapter books, and nonfiction for kids in grades K-2. The list includes books for kids just learning to read all the way through independent readers. Also see the staff picks list for Grades K-2 Picture Books.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Romance

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Romance

2023 Staff Picks for Grades 3-5: Fiction

From a new Percy Jackson book to mysteries to stories narrated by animals to fantasies to books about families who migrate to America, this list has staff favorites for every kind of reader!

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks for Grades 3-5: Graphic Novels and Nonfiction

We loved this year's graphic novels and nonfiction for kids in grades 3-5. On this list, you'll find funny books, fantasies, realistic fiction about kids trying to fit in, adventure stories, and more.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks : Grades 6-8

You'll find books about fitting in, family struggles, romance, friendship, and grief in these books perfect for middle schoolers.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Teen

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Teens
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Literary Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Memoir and Biography

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Biography & Memoir

2023 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2023 Staff Picks: Historical Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Historical Fiction

2023 Staff Picks: Science Fiction and Fantasy

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2023 Staff Picks: Horror

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Horror

2023 Staff Picks: Music

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2023 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share some favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2023 Staff Picks: Television

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share some favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Climate Change (Episode 8)

These books will help you understand climate change and what we can all do to make a difference.

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Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Climate Change for Kids (Episode 8)

These books will help kids understand climate change and what we can all do to make a difference.

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Metamorphosis: Transforming into the Unknown

As the year wraps up, it’s often tradition to reflect on ways to change for the upcoming year. But what about transformations that are a little less…human? These books feature humans that physically transform into nonhuman entities. Some of these changes are comforting and others are horrifying. Most, though, are undeniably strange.

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Indigenous Authors/Indigenous Detectives

I grew up on Tony Hillerman's classic mysteries featuring Lt. Joe Leaphorn and Officer Jim Chee of the Navajo Tribal Police. But it's only in the last few years that the authors of books featuring indigenous sleuths started to resemble their characters. I know this is a somewhat limited selection--seven from the United States, one from New Zealand--but there will surely be more. I look forward to updating this list.

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Interior Design Inspiration

I’ve always been curious about the subtle ways interior design affects our mental and physical well-being. Access to natural light, the materials we use to furnish a room, the colors we paint our walls--these can all play an often unconscious role in fostering how connected, safe, productive, or rested we feel. Here are some interior design books that offer inspiration and guidance on how to create places that reflect, inspire, sustain, and even grow with us.

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• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Celebrating Winter Holidays with Food

Full disclosure: Brenna and I have not tested the recipes in these books. However, if the luscious food photography is correlated with good taste, the results should be delicious!

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• Adults
• Teens
• Holiday

Comfort Foods for Winter

Soups, breads, and more--these cookbooks are great for warming your insides during the cold months.

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• Adults
• Holiday

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Bedtime Challenges (Episode 7, part 1)

These books will help you tackle, or embrace, bedtime and its many challenges.

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• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Reading Instruction (Episode 7, part 2)

Some of our favorites for beginning readers, along with good information for caregivers on helping your child become a reader.

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• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Fiction for Teens by Indigenous Authors

These recent novels offer something for every teen reader, whether they are fans of thrillers, horror, coming-of-age, historical fiction, or fantasy.

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• Teens
• Indigenous & Native Voices

Captivating Indigenous Nonfiction for Teens

From memoir and narrative history to self-help and social justice, this list is a small sampling of recent and essential Indigenous nonfiction for teens to explore.

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• Teens
• Indigenous & Native Voices

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: How to Be a Friend (Episode 6)

These books tackle all sides of friendship--from how to meet firends to how to keep them close, or knowing when to turn the page.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Kanopy Short Film Favorites

Discover wonderful shorts you can stream via Kanopy.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Latin American Teen Stories

Fresh and compelling stories of Latine teens, from romance and fantasy to coming-of-age.

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• Teens
• Latine Voices

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Back to School (Episode 5)

These books will help you and your children into a new school year and beyond.

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• Adults
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Foodie Favorites for Fans of 'The Bear'

Check out these books about food, cooking, and restaurants.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

Murder! ... in Space!

Space is a dangerous place, made all the more dangerous by fellow humans. Read and watch these murder and detective stories that show that murder is not limited to planet earth.

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Visualizing Reality: Nonfiction Graphic Novels for Teens

These teen graphic novels that tell amazing true stories are recommended by our teen interns, Barira Barkat and Jonathan Nguyen.

Tags

• Teens
• Biography & Memoir
• Comics & Graphic Novels
• Social Justice

True Stories: Narrative Nonfiction for Teens

Try these incredible true stories for teens, recommended by our teen interns, Barira Barkat and Jonathan Nguyen.

Tags

• Teens
• Biography & Memoir
• Social Justice

Beginner's Guide to Classic YA

Young adult (YA) literature, broadly defined as books intended for those ages 12 to 18, wasn’t officially recognized as a category until the 1960s. Even though these books are based on the lives of teens, readers of all ages enjoy them. Here are some of the most influential YA titles throughout the years.

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• Teens
• Beginner's Guide to Genre

Beginner's Guide to Young Adult Novels

Our staff members enjoy these young adult titles.

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• Teens
• Beginner's Guide to Genre

Senior Sleuths and Senior Crooks

Solving mysteries (and committing crimes) is not just for the young. These senior sleuths (and crooks) use the wisdom of their years to crack cases and take down bad guys (or to be the bad guy).

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• Mysteries & Thrillers

Under the Big Top

Compelling stories of life in the circus.

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• Adults
• Historical Fiction

What to Read if You Loved the Hulu TV Series 'Only Murders in the Building'

Here are some mystery and true crime suggestions.

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Big Topics for Little Kids: Picky Eaters

Getting kids to try new foods can be challenging. Here are some books that might help. Part of the Big Topics for Little Kids series, these books are for sharing with kids grades PreK-2nd.

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Big Topics for Little Kids: Absent Family Members

Whether it's incarceration, a job, the military, deportation or another reason for a child to be missing a loved one while they are away, these books help to normalize the situation and help kids feel seen. Part of the Big Topics for Little Kids series, these books are for sharing with kids in grades PreK-2nd.

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Fantastical Stories for Teens Who Love Role-Playing Adventures

Jump from the tabletop to the book page in these exciting stories of elemental magic, dark shadows, and epic quests.

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• Teens
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Your Village (Episode 4)

These books address the layered, often overwhelming, nature of parenting. From relationships to work to childcare; it's all complicated and you're not alone!

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• Adults
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Summer Fun! (Episode 3)

This selection of books encourages family engagement and fun both inside and outdoors all summer long.

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• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Nature & the Environment

Beginner's Guide to Mystery Books

These mystery novels are favorites of our staff.

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• Adults
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Beginner's Guide to Mystery Series

Because when you've found a favorite detective, just one book is never enough.

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• Adults
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Social Anxiety (Episode 2)

These are the books about social anxiety (plus a few more) shared on episode 2 of our "Your Family, Your Library" podcast.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Overlooked by the Oscars, But Worth the Watch

From major studio releases to independent films, here are some recent favorites you can find at the library.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Fiction for Reading This Summer

We love these fiction titles that are perfect for summer.

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• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Romance

Nonfiction for Your Summer Reading

Find your next summer read with these nonfiction titles.

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• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Biography & Memoir

Summer Sounds 2023

From emerging artists to absolute legends, this list of music has you covered for whatever mood you're in and the many summer memories you will make.

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• Adults
• Music

Summer Viewing: Film and TV

Whether you are in the mood for pure escapism or want to do some armchair traveling, we suggest choosing from this wide selection of films and TV.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Talk That Talk, Read That Book: Joyful K-Inspired Teen Fiction

If you're as obsessed with K-Pop and K-dramas as we are, pick one (or all!) of these fantastically fun and often romantic teen novels.

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• Teens
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Voices

Captivating Stories of Jewish American Teens

Favorite stories of Jewish American teens, from romance to fantasy and coming-of-age.

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• Teens
• Jewish Voices

Engrossing Stories of Jewish Experience

From fantasy to literary fiction to romance, explore a wide range of the Jewish experience in fiction for adults and teens. There is something for everyone.

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• Adults
• Jewish Voices
• Romance

Jewish Life and Culture in Film

From feature films to documentaries, explore a wide range of stories of the Jewish experience. There is something for everyone to watch and enjoy.

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• Adults
• Jewish Voices
• Movies & TV

Your Family, Your Library Podcast: Big Feelings (Episode 1)

These are the books about feelings, emotions, and mindfulness (plus a few more) shared on episode 1 of Your Family, Your Library.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Celebrating Jewish Voices

Explore and get inspired by Jewish biographies, culinary traditions, and memoirs.

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• Adults
• Jewish Voices
• Biography & Memoir
• Food & Drink

2023 Oscar Nominees

Here are some Academy Award nominees you can check out and watch at home.

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• Movies & TV

Breezy Summer Reads 2023 (Grades K-2)

From picture books to easy readers to graphic novels to chapter books, these are some of our favorite books for kids in kindergarten-grade 2 and their grown-ups. They're easy to find right near the Kids desk.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading

Cool Summer Reads 2023 (Grades 3-5)

Cats in space, magic, and special grandparents! Enjoy these and much more in our favorite fiction, graphic novels, and nonfiction for kids in grades 3-5.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Hot Summer Reads 2023 (Grades 6-8)

Take a dangerous journey through a violent city, witness a deadly competition for potent magic, watch a socially terrified teen suddenly find herself in the middle of the popular group, and more. You'll want to read all of these awesome books!

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• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading

Muslim Voices: Grades K-8

From picture books to chapter books and nonfiction, these books offer varied insights into Muslim life, especially in childood.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Muslim Voices

Muslim Stories and Voices in Film

USC researchers published a study titled "Missing and Maligned: The Reality of Muslims in Popular Global Movies" (https://assets.uscannenberg.org/docs/aii-muslim-rep-global-film-2021-06-09.pdf) that found a severe lack of Muslim representation in film. These films feature Muslim stories that move beyond stereotypes and show the complexity and diversity of the Muslim community.

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• Adults
• Muslim Voices
• Movies & TV

Muslim Authors in Teen Fiction

Our staff share books that see the world of teens through the eyes of Muslim authors.

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• Teens
• Muslim Voices

Muslim Authors in Adult Fiction

From fantasy to literary fiction to romance, explore a wide range of stories of the Muslim experience in adult fiction.

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• Adults
• Muslim Voices

Islam: Culture, Diversity, and Religion

Islam is the second-largest world religion. It is also the most misunderstood. These books provide a window for those who would like to learn more about the religion, its influence on culture, and the tireless work of Muslims who stand up against Islamophobia.

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• Muslim Voices

Celebrating Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. These books for younger readers discuss the significance of Ramadan.

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• Kids
• Holiday
• Muslim Voices

On Grief and Grieving

Grief at losing a loved one is an emotion that we all experience at some point or another. Grief is never easy and can be overwhelming. Here are some books that explore how people have navigated death, as well as titles to help people find their own path and make sense of the extreme emotions that accompany loss.

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• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Romance for Skeptics

Romance might not be everybody's cup of tea, and that's okay. Here are some titles that feature romance in a nontraditional, yet entertaining way.

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• Adults
• Romance
• Movies & TV

Bad Love

If you can't stand conversation hearts because you prefer your hearts black and cold, this is the list for you. This is love gone bad. Romance gone wrong. And the perfect antidote to those with hearts in their eyes.

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• Adults
• Music
• Movies & TV

First Loves: The Best of Young Adult Romance

Fall in love with these sweet books as the teens navigate love and relationships for the first time.

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• Teens
• Romance

Beginner's Guide to World Cinema: Staff Favorites

We love film from around the world! Here's a collection of some our staff favorites.

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• Adults
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Movies & TV

International Detective and Mystery Stories

Try a mystery set in locations far and farther away.

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World War II Global Perspective

Explore these lesser-known stories and experiences of people in a number of different countries during World War II.

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• Adults
• History

Family Favorites

Enjoy these suggestions for family viewing. Age recommendations provided by commonsensemedia.org.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV

The Studio Ghibli Experience

Studio Ghibli has created some films that are near and dear to my heart. Here are some books and movies that will transport you to worlds similar to those created by Hayao Miyazaki.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

2022 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2022 Staff Picks: Literary Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Book Club Favorites

2022 Staff Picks: Historical Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Historical Fiction

2022 Staff Picks: Romance

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Romance

2022 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2022 Staff Picks: Biographies and Memoirs

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Biography & Memoir

2022 Staff Picks: Science Fiction and Fantasy

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2022 Staff Picks: Mysteries, Suspense, and Thrillers

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2022 Staff Picks: Horror

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Horror

Staff Picks 2022: Books for Babies through Preschool

It's important for grown-ups to enjoy the books that are meant to be shared with the littlest readers. These are some we think everyone will enjoy!

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Picture Books for Grades K-3

Most kids in this age group still love to share picture books with their grown-ups, and many are ready for more sophisticated stories and topics, some of which we've included here.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Fiction, Graphic Novels, Readers, and Nonfiction for Grades K-3

As kids in grades K-3 become more independent readers, they start to branch out from their still beloved picture books. It's a great time to explore lots of different topics and types of books.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Staff Picks 2022: Graphic Novels and Nonfiction for Grades 4-5

The number of great graphic novels is growing exponentially, and we couldn't be happier to suggest these 2022 selections, as well as some good nonfiction for kids in grades 4-5.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Staff Picks 2022: Fiction for Grades 4-5

From magic to friend stories to humor, mystery, and folklore, this list is packed with great stories and characters.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Books for Grades 6-8

From fantasy to finding your own voice, from making bad decisions to living with the consequences, from friendships to romance, there are a lot of books here to love.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Staff Picks

2022 Staff Picks: Teens

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share some of their favorite titles.

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• Teens
• Staff Picks

2022 Staff Picks: Music

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share favorite albums.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2022 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2022 Staff Picks: Television

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share some favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

Suicide Prevention

In collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC, here are some titles that can help provide perspective and solidarity in times of need.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Talking Books 2022

During this monthly book discussion group, we include a wide variety of books. Here are the titles we read in 2022.

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• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Life and Classical Music

From memoirs to mysteries, fall into the beauty, drama, and human connections that can form through classical music and some of the instruments that drive it.

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Adult Book Discussion Titles 2022

These are the books that we have discussed on GoodReads and Instagram Live this year. The discussions and Instagram discussions are still available, so it isn't too late to read and join in the fun. You can also determine if they're a good choice for you or your book club.

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• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Big Topics for Little Kids: Worries and Anxiety

Being worried or anxious is not just for grown-ups: kids feel these things too. These books will help kids identify how they're feeling and learn to manage their feelings so they don't overwhelm them. Part of our big topics for little kids booklist series focusing on grades pre-K-2. Find more books on worries and anxiety: bit.ly/BigTopicsWorry2

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• Kids
• Health & Wellness

The Power of Teen Anger

Although the emotional turbulence of adolescence is often written off as "teen angst," these books celebrate the power of anger and its capacity to change people and communities.

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Great Graphic Novels

Offering both visual and narrative elements, graphic novels offer multiple points of entry into a story, creating a deep and rich reading experience. Here are a few we really love!

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• Teens
• Kids
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2022 Movie Discussion Titles

Each month we screen a movie and then talk about it. These are 2022 films.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

What Is Domestic Violence?

These books introduce the topic of domestic violence, produced in collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

2022 LitLounge Book Discussion Titles

LitLounge is the North Shore’s social book discussion group, brought to you in partnership with Morton Grove Public Library. We get together the second Wednesday of every month (please see the library calendar for registration information). Here are the books we discussed in 2022.

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• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Colleen Hoover Readalikes

Whether you have read all of Colleen Hoover's books or have one on hold, here are some related books you might also enjoy.

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Romance

Anxiety

These books provide an introduction to anxiety. Produced in collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC.

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• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Recent Books about Covid-19

This year has seen a number of interesting, thoughtful books published about the Covid-19 pandemic. I know that personally, when I look back at the events of the last 2½ years, I’m still trying to make sense of just what happened. I’m grateful to these authors for trying to do just that, by shedding light and giving context to those turbulent times and the long wake we’re still churning in.

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• Adults
• Health & Wellness

What Is Depression?

Here is a diverse list of titles to provide an introduction to depression, produced in collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Health & Wellness

Filipino American Heritage Month

Our staff suggests books and films written by Filipino authors or featuring Filipino characters.

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• Adults

Reel Witches

From movies to TV series, we've got something to cast the right viewing spell.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV

(Subverting) H.P. Lovecraft

"For H.P. Lovecraft, with all my conflicted feelings." Let us recognize the creators who are dealing with the inescapable toxicity of one of the most influential horror/science fiction/fantasy authors of the past century by invading his sandbox and making his toys their own!

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

The Book Was Better Than the Movie

Movie adaptations of beloved books can be polarizing. Here's a list of children's books that have been adapted into movies--whether we like the movie better or not!

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• Kids

Making the Holidays

Are you looking for inspiration to create your own unique holiday gifts this season? Look no further. There is a little something for everyone at every skill level. Happy making!

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• Adults
• Holiday

Gifts from Kids

Just in time for the holidays, here are some crafty books that will show children how they can make cherished gifts for loved ones, step-by-step.

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• Kids
• Holiday

Great Ideas for Photography Gifts

Photography is a fun and creative medium for creating unique, handmade gifts that capture beloved moments, memories, and more. These books offer hundreds of ideas for photography gifts and projects that you can share with your loved ones, as well as tips, tricks, and terms of digital photography that'll help you make great photos.

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• Adults
• Holiday
• Art & Entertainment

Remixed Adult Classics for the Modern Reader

So many classics portray a world where marginalized people either don’t exist or lead awful lives, but these modern adaptations, inspirations, reimaginings, or retellings have reworked the originals to put these groups in the spotlight, all while staying faithful to the classic's themes.

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• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Remixed Classics for Teens

If you tried and could not get into the classics you were assigned to read in school, try these modern adaptations, inspirations, reimaginings, and retellings that address problematic aspects and rework the original stories to put marginal groups in the spotlight, all while staying faithful to the classic's themes.

Tags

• Teens
• Book Club Favorites

Kanopy Favorites

Great movies you can stream using Kanopy. Watch and enjoy.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

What Is Mental Health?

In collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC, here are titles to help start the conversation on and provide an introduction to mental health.

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• Health & Wellness

Chapter Books with Pictures

Chapter books with pictures allow readers to experience books on multiple levels. Great tools for encouraging new readers, pictures can tell their own story. They can also deepen the reader's understanding of the narrative.

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• Kids

Wandering the Pages of Chicagoland

Enjoy these selections of adult and teen fiction and graphic novels by local authors or that take place in the Chicago area.

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• Adults
• Teens

Beginner's Guide to Horror: Staff Favorites

Library staff share their favorite horror titles.

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• Adults
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Horror

Beginner's Guide to Horror: Staff-Favorite Classics

Staff recommend their favorite classic horror novels.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Beginner's Guide to Genre
• Horror

Haunted Houses

That noise you hear in the middle of the night--is it the house settling? Or is it something more sinister? In these books, it is the later and the house is haunted. Our staff chose favorite stories about things that go bump in the night.

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• Adults

Great Chicago Detective Stories

Calling all lovers of mystery and the Windy City! Explore Chicago with these great takes on the detective story.

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Adult Romances That Won't Make You Blush

Enjoy these romance titles that are full of charm and intimacy, without graphic details.

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• Adults
• Romance

Back to School

Get ready to go back to school with these great books!

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• Kids

I'm with the Band

From K-pop to rock to country to soca music, this is a fun list about boy bands, girl groups, and pursuing your dreams while falling in love.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Romance
• Music

Perspectives on Disability

Some disabilities are visible, others less apparent—but all are underrepresented in media and popular culture even though one in five people in the United States lives with a disability. All of these books and films show what it is like to live with various disabilities.

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• Adults

Great Summer Reads for Beaches, Hammocks, and Poolsides

Find your next summer read with these fiction titles.

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• Adults
• Summer Reading

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Remembrance

Juneteenth, also known as Black Independence Day, Jubilee Day, or Emancipation Day for Black Americans, is a holiday that commemorates the day the last enslaved people were emancipated in the United States on June 19, 1865 with the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas. This was two and a half years after slavery was abolished more broadly in the United States through the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, and six months before the 13th Amendment in December 1865 made slavery unconstitutional. It is a day to celebrate freedom and also to remember the genocide of enslaved African Americans.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Voices
• Social Justice

Photography for Kids

As the library's staff photographer, I know that photography is super fun and possible for kids to do. Plus, now that we have camera phones, anyone can take pictures easily and just about anywhere. Want to get started? With these books, you’ll learn about the history of photography, important photographers, tips and tricks, and even get to try your hand at experiments and simple projects and prompts. You’re going to have a blast–I can just picture it!

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• Teens
• Kids
• Art & Entertainment

Picture Books for Tough Times

Books to share with little ones that can provide some inspiration, perspective, and comfort when the world feels like a scary place.

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• Kids

Stories that Reflect

We love fiction because it holds a mirror to humanity, but each mirror reflects something different. The titles spotlighted here are as varied in what they reflect and how they do it as are the authors who wrote the books.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Danger, Romance, Space, Magic, and Lesbian Librarians Saving the Day

Stories with everything the title says, told through a queer lens.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Songs of Existence

Music that evokes the drama, heartache, struggle, liberation, and beauty of queer lives.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices
• Music

Stories of Experience

How people celebrate Pride is as varied as the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. These books share an array of perspectives, but are still only a small selection of the LGBTQIA+ experience.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Resistance, Liberation, and Joy

Too often, we hear about trans experiences rooted in trauma, shame, and fear. It's important that those stories exist, but we argue it's equally (if not more) important that trans stories rooted in joy also exist. Trans people, as well as people of other genders, need to see that the trans community is a beautiful community "that has resistance, liberation, joy and magic at its core" (Cosmopolitan UK).

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Jewish American Heritage Month: Books for Kids

Enjoy these books focusing on Jewish Americans for babies through grade 8.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Jewish Voices

Essential Nonfiction Exploring Asian Culture and Asian American Experiences

To honor Asian and Asian American heritage, we've put together a list of nonfiction books that explore Asian culture and Asian American experiences throughout history.

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• Adults
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Voices

Enthralling Asian American Fiction

Here are some of our staff's favorite fiction titles written by Asian American authors. These books will make you laugh, cry, and captivate you until the end.

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• Adults
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Voices

Compelling Pacific Islander Stories

A collection of books and films encapsulating the rich culture and history of the Pacific Islander experience.

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• Adults
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Voices

Asian Perspectives on Screen

In recent years, the entertainment industry seems to be moving a bit forward in a positive direction when it comes to Asian and Asian American films. In 2020, Parasite, a Korean movie, even made it to the Oscars and won Best Picture. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite movies and TV shows produced, directed, or written by Asian and Asian American creators. Turn on your screen, sit back, and enjoy!

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• Adults
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Voices
• Movies & TV

Searching for Clues, Love, and Magic (and Zombies!?)

Here are some of our favorites by Asian American authors—from fun and fascinating mystery, sweet and fiery romance, action-filled and entrancing fantasy, all the way to bone-chilling horror.

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• Adults

Science Fun!

Some science fact, some science fiction, all science fun. Books for preschoolers through grade 5.

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• Kids
• Science & Technology

Hot Summer Reads 2022 (Grades 6-8)

The Hot Summer Reads list for 2022 includes graphic novels, horror, romance, political thrillers, and much more!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading

Cool Summer Reads 2022 (Grades 3-5)

Mysteries, friendships, vampires and dragons, a magical train, two goats, two elephants, a life-changing game, and more. This year's books will keep you guessing, make you laugh, and inspire you.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Breezy Summer Reads 2022 (Grades K-2)

From picture books, to nonfiction, to beginning readers, to chapter books, these terrific books are sure to delight kids in grades K-2 and their grown-ups.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading

2022 Oscar Nominees

You can check out these Academy Award nominees from the library.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Women's Stories

Although it is impossible to fully encompass the breadth of women's experience, these are some of our recent favorites.

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• Adults
• Women's Voices

Women Overcoming

Women's History Month honors the achievements and contributions of women in history.

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• Adults
• Women's Voices
• History

Inspiration: Stories of Women's Accomplishments

These books and films celebrate women who've made an indelible mark on the world, even if the history books previously failed to name them.

Tags

• Adults
• Women's Voices

Feminist Movement and Theory

The feminist movement has been around for many decades and has had strong voices in each generation. These books focus on the issues that have gained momentum in recent years, with an emphasis on including the perspectives of all people.

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• Adults
• Women's Voices

Brewing a Better Cup of Coffee

Whether you’re a simple fan or a self-proclaimed home barista, these books will get you closer to understanding and mastering your perfect cup of coffee.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

For the Love of Coffee

Pour yourself a cup and get cozy with these coffee-inspired reads.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

Sweet Reads

Our library staff make their swooning and romantic Valentine's Day reading picks.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Romance

Excellence in Black Fiction

Some of the best fiction by Black authors published in 2020 and early 2021.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites
• Black Voices

Preserving Culture and the Power of Inspiration

This list of music and nonfiction books for Black History Month 2022 likely features one or more ways to feed your soul.

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• Adults
• Black Voices
• Music

Black Joy

This list is inspired by Kleaver Cruz's The Black Joy Project, "a digital and real-world effort to center Black joy." Cruz says, "When we acknowledge that we exist in an anti-Black world that is set up to ensure we do not live, to choose life and to choose to enjoy aspects of that life is a radical act. Centering on Black joy [doesn't] ignore the realities of our collective pain; rather, it is about holding the pain and injustices we experience as Black folks around the world in tension with the joy we experience in the pain’s midst. Black joy is healing, resistance, and regeneration."

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• Adults
• Teens
• Black Voices

Black Joy on Screen

In a Vogue article stressing the importance of Black joy, Chante Joseph says, "Where society has told Black people to 'be quiet' or that we’re 'too loud,' reveling in joy is an act of resistance. As our feeds become even more inundated with images of trauma, joy can help us heal, too." Here are some of our favorite depictions of Black joy on screen.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Voices
• Movies & TV

Black Wizards and Lovers and P.I.s, Oh My!

In a Tor.com article entitled "The Role Publishing Plays in the Commodification of Black Pain," L.L. McKinney writes, "We know that for every 'issue' book, we need at least five more where we can go on adventures, fall in love, solve mysteries, be heroes, do everyday things like everyone else. Black readers need to see themselves in narratives outside of racism, slavery, Jim Crow, police brutality. As do non-Black readers.” From cozy mysteries to thrillers, science fiction to fantasy, and romance to horror, here we celebrate some of our favorites.

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• Adults
• Black Voices
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Romance

Thinking and Feeling, and Thinking about Feeling

I don't watch funny movies. I don't read mindlessly. I don't like pop music. What I do like is a lot of drama and self-help books and really feeling my feelings; they are my closest friends. These books (and a CD) have helped me make sense of said friends.

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• Adults
• Health & Wellness

2021 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2021 Staff Picks: TV Series

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2021 Staff Picks: Mysteries, Thrillers, and Suspense

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers