Give yourself a fantastic gift this holiday season— commit to reading in 2020. Reading is an enriching and relaxing activity that costs nothing but time well spent. The Findlay Hancock County Public Library provides access to free books. We asked the librarians and staff at the library to suggest books for 2020 reading lists.
Sarah Cramer
Children’s Services Librarian
“My favorite type of book is middle-grade fiction (fiction written for kids between 8-12 years old) because I work with a lot of kids that age, and I love being able to talk with them about the books they’re reading and recommend other books they might like.”
Sarah recommends:
- The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner
This graphic novel reminded me of Smile meets Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and it’s a quick read for graphic novel fans who enjoy fantasy—or funny, talking cats. - The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
Already recognized with awards buzz, this beautiful, heartbreaking novel is about a girl and her father traveling around the country in an old school bus. - Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly
What I loved most about reading this story of a deaf girl who creates a song for a lonely whale was how much you learn about deaf culture, the science of sound and, of course, whales.
Joel Mantey
Circulation Services Manager
“I particularly like fantasy and nonfiction works. I like learning about our world and how it works, but I also like to be taken away to fantastical settings.”
Joel recommends:
- The Ruin of Kings by Jenn Lyons
With strong worldbuilding and storytelling, this debut work delivers an epic tale. - No Country for Old Gnomes by Delilah S. Dawon and Kevin Hearne
A tongue in cheek humorous fantasy reminiscent of Terry Pratchett, will be worth a reread to catch all of the hidden jokes. - The Lost Gutenberg: The Astounding Story of One Book’s Five-Hundred-Year Odyssey by Margaret Leslie Davis
An interesting ‘life’ story of a Gutenberg Bible and the hidden world of book collecting.
Sarah Clevidence
Assistant Director
“I’m an eclectic reader and enjoy books from multiple genres. I just enjoy the experience of reading a good book!”
Sarah recommends:
- Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay and a Mother’s Will to Survive by Stephanie Land
This memoir is an exploration of the reality of living in poverty in America. - The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J.Ryan Stradal
I loved the characters in this novel of a Midwestern family drama set in the world of IPA brewing. - The Stationary Shop by Marjan Kamali
This novel spans decades, alternating between the budding romance of two teenagers in 1953 Tehran to their reunion 60 years later.
Brittany Lutes
Children’s Services Manager
“My favorite genre is fantasy because life needs a little more magic.”
Brittany recommends:
- Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend! by Cori Doerfeld
Cori Doerfeld has a really gentle and appealing way of inviting children to explore emotions, like the excitement of making new friends but also the sadness that comes when they are no longer close enough to see every day. - Lubna and Pebble by Wendy Meddour
Lubna is a very touching story about friendship and hope in the midst of difficult times. - The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
A magical read, perfect for anyone who has ever wished they could step inside the pages of their favorite book and join the story.
Justin Crawfis
Genealogy Associate
“I enjoy nonfiction, especially biographies. I find nonfiction to be much more compelling and interesting than fiction. It also tends to be more educational, too.”
Justin recommends:
- Am I Dying? A Complete Guide to Your Symptoms by Christopher Kelly, MD & Marc Eisenberg, MD
A relevant, practical, informative guide to many common health ailments and when to seek treatment, if necessary. - Unicorn Day by Diana Murray
This charming story, accompanied by colorful illustrations and written in rhyme, will certainly enchant readers of all ages.
Holly Walter
Adult Services Librarian
“It is so hard to choose one genre, but I’ve been enjoying romance lately. I like the optimism and humor in these stories, as well as the diverse female protagonists who are often enthusiastic about their careers.”
Holly recommends:
- The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
This is a hilarious romantic comedy about two enemies who decide to take a honeymoon trip together because the newlyweds get food poisoning. - Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell
I love the illustrations of the pumpkin patch and the story is fun and lighthearted. - They Called Us Enemy by George Takei
I was stunned by the beauty of the illustrations and Takei’s firsthand perspective of World War II.
