Alfie’s Long Winter
by Greg McEvoy
The children’s book Alfie’s Long Winter by Greg McEvoy is an endearing and beautifully illustrated story about a leaf named Alfie who lives on the highest branch at the top of a maple tree. When autumn arrives, Alfie is too frightened to fall to the ground with the other leaves. And so, his long winter begins. This is a charming story about bravery and friendship that your children will want to read over and over again. The age range for this book is 2 to 7 years.
Kathy Rowe
The Polar Express
by Chris Van Allsburg
I recommend The Polar Express for a cozy holiday read and gift! The children’s book about a magical train ride to the North Pole and the power of believing in the holiday spirit is as timeless a classic as ever. I especially love the illustrations of piping hot chocolate and the warmly lit train travelling across snowy mountains and forests. This book would make a wonderful addition to holiday traditions, perhaps paired with a movie night in, the gift of a sleigh bell, and a mug of hot chocolate.
Amanda Pompilii
The Collector
by Daniel Silva
While browsing the mystery section at a fall book sale, I noticed The Collector by Daniel Silva, a New York Times bestselling author. Gabriel Allon was tasked to find a stolen Vermeer masterpiece only to uncover a conspiracy involving the Russia/Ukraine war. As brilliant plot twists unfold, Gabriel and his young associate, Ingrid, who happens to be a renowned thief and brilliant computer hacker, bring readers into the world of stolen art black markets, exotic European locations, and the inner sanctum of top ranking international espionage officials. This historical fiction book published in 2023 is based on timely present day events.
Don Lawrence
Greenwood
by Michael Christie
Greenwood is a compelling story by a Canadian author that’s about forests and a family through several generations. The book begins in the near future on a remote island off the BC coast where a fungus is devastating the world’s trees and the wealthy are paying to visit one of the last old-growth forests there. The story weaves back and forth between 1934, 1974, 2008 and 2038. While the narrative is about trees and the cost of mankind’s exploitation, it’s also about people and the hope that gets them through difficult times. It’s a beautifully written book.
Kathryn Stocks
The Let Them Theory
by Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins is an international podcaster, TV personality and motivational speaker. In The Let Them Theory, she delivers a simple, powerful message that allows readers to give themselves permission to “let go.” She uses research-based theories to explain human nature and how we often feel burdened by the need to control, fix or please others. This book is a must-read for anyone ready to stop over-explaining, over-apologizing, and over-functioning. It’s not about giving up, it’s about letting go of what you can’t control so you can focus on what you can: your own joy, self-esteem and personal growth.
Pam Collins