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Science writer Mary Roach’s new book for adults, Fuzz, looks at the disruption and danger that can occur when wildlife and humans converge. In her wildly entertaining manner, she reports on the chaos that ensues “when nature breaks the law.” But whose law is being broken? The law of nature? The law of science? The law of humankind?
Collette
A tender, unflinching story about three unexpectedly intertwined women: one runaway trans girl, a former violinist who sold her soul to a demon, and an alien who’s new to Earth. Katrina is struggling to find her place in the world, but with help from her violin instructor, she’ll find her voice – if Shizuka doesn’t sell Katrina’s soul to hell. Filled with the magic of music and good donuts, romance, and found family, this is a defiantly joyful novel.
Jenna
The introduction is titled “Animalish”: my new favorite adjective! This lively collection of essays by Susan Orlean explores human/animal relationships. Although I picked it up for the animal side of the story, I was blown away by her observations about humans. From backyard chicken farmers to show-dog breeders, from hoarders to conservationists, she covers them all with grace and humor. A thought provoking book that will inspire you to take a closer look at your own animalish universe.
Collette
Folklorist Maria Tatar explores the role of female characters and archetypes from our best known and oft-repeated stories, drawing from ancient tales to modern literature, re-tellings, and social movements. Surveying texts spanning from The Odyssey to Madeline Miller’s Circe, this fascinating read invites us to reengage with and reimagine the heroines we thought we knew, and how their stories shape our world.
Claire