Douglas W. Tallamy
[isbn]
Buying books for the climate change section can get a little depressing sometimes, so when a book with “hope” in the title comes along, I pay attention! This title is part of a growing area of climate literature that focuses on big picture changes individual folks can make — in this case, how to make your backyard part of a conservation corridor for wildlife in order to help boost biodiversity. Practical, inspirational, and full of scientific and... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Hilary Mantel
[isbn]
Hooray, after eight years it's finally here, the last installment in the Wolf Hall trilogy. Do we already know what happens? Well, sure, it's based on a true story. But does it matter? Nope! Mantel's brilliant use of language makes history new again, and you can't help but hang on every word.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Louise Erdrich
[isbn]
Even within Erdrich's superlative body of work, her newest, a tribute to her grandfather, truly shines. This book is perfect in every way — the characters, tone, pacing, and the WRITING... swoon! Her creativity and mastery of language are on full display, and it's mind-blowing. I loved every second of reading this!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Amanda Abler
[isbn]
The Spirit of Springer is the true story of the cutest orphaned baby orca you ever did see, and the community of people (made up of scientists, Indigenous groups, activists, and others) who went to extraordinary measures to get her reunited with her family in Canada. This happened right when my family moved to the Puget Sound area, so we’re all very emotionally invested in this story and have been waiting anxiously to get a sneak peek of... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Erik Larson
[isbn]
I wouldn't have thought anyone could make me want to read a 608-page book about Churchill and the Blitz, but Larson once again sucked me in with his exhaustive research and beautiful writing. Reading this doesn't feel like a chore, but rather an immersive, nail-biting escape into a different time and place. It's stunning.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Jenny Offill
[isbn]
I loved Offill's last book, Department of Speculation, and it appears it was no fluke as I loved this one too! Neither are particularly plot-heavy, but you get so caught up in the dazzling writing and the wonderful characters that you don't really notice. Read them both! They go fast!
Recommended by Leah C.
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J M M Nuanez
[isbn]
After Jack and her brother Birdie lose their mom, they move to a small town to live with their uncles. As they adjust to their new life, they navigate some big issues including grief, identity, family, home, and community. I laughed and cried and will remember this lovely book forever.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Sara Pennypacker
[isbn]
Introverted Ware spends the summer trying to hide from the world, but instead discovers that stepping outside your shell and engaging isn’t always so bad after all. This gentle book provides so many important lessons about community, nature, getting involved, and fighting for what you believe in — I loved it!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Chani Nicholas
[isbn]
Chani Nicholas is beloved by many Powell's employees (myself included), and for very good reason! Nicholas approaches astrology as a path to self-knowledge, empowerment, and social justice, using humor and straight talk to help you learn more about yourself and the world around you. Great for newbies and experts alike!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Sarah Knight
[isbn]
I have always been jealous of people who say "no" with confidence and ease — well, no longer! This new book by bestselling author Sarah Knight is helping me learn how/when/why to say no, and I'm loving it. For example: Do I think you can skip this title? NO!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Isabella Tree
[isbn]
This book has done the impossible — it has given me hope for the future. Wilding is the true story of how the owners of a depleted British farm decided to return the ecosystem to its natural state in an attempt to make the land viable again — and the fact that 28 years later the plants and animals and insects and soil are all now FLOURISHING is so beautiful and hopeful and moving I can hardly stand it. This planet is desperate for more... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Matt Haig
[isbn]
What if you could live for hundreds of years — but had to do so alone? What makes life worth living, and how do we make the right choices? Get ready to ponder these questions (and more!) in this poignant, adventurous, and wholly unique new novel by Matt Haig.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Marc Hamer
[isbn]
In this quiet, respectful, and inspiring tome, Hamer uses moles as a framework for his philosophy on nature and life, incorporating prose, poetry and even illustrations. Part natural observation, part memoir of a life spent mostly outdoors, How to Catch a Mole is 100% delightful.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Susan Cooper and Carson Ellis
[isbn]
In The Shortest Day, a poem written by Susan Cooper, beautiful illustrations by local artist Carson Ellis accompany a simple but inspiring and timely message. Celebrating the rhythms of time, tradition, hope, and celebration, this book is a lovely reminder that even in the darkest times, all is not lost.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Julia Drake
[isbn]
Loosely based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, this beautifully written debut has everything I'm looking for in a contemporary YA novel. Realistic characters that grow and change, an open approach to hardship and recovery, an emphasis on family and friendship, a lovely romance, AND a sense of humor? I'm hooked!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Peter Wohlleben
[isbn]
Peter Wohlleben has been leading expeditions for 26 years, introducing kids to the magic and wonder of the forest, and his dedication, knowledge, and passion come through on every page of this book. Filled with whimsy, information, and activities, this book is a delight for children of all ages!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Téa Obreht
[isbn]
In Obreht's newest novel, she proves that the success she had with her debut (The Tiger's Wife) was no fluke. Her beautiful use of language perfectly captures the harsh, punishing experience of Arizona in the 1800s. This lovely, sad, and haunting book will stick with you for a very long time.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Drew Brockington
[isbn]
In this latest CatStronauts adventure, Flight Director Maisy is off on a vacation — and the rest of the cat scientists don't do so great without her. Is this really the end? Or can these felines learn how to communicate and work together to save the day?
Recommended by Leah C.
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Joy Harjo
[isbn]
Joy Harjo is our new U.S. Poet Laureate and I'm so excited! Her poems never fail to make me gasp, they are always so perfectly truthful and beautiful, painful and real. This collection weaves between the past and present of both her tribe and her personal experiences and is once again gasp-worthy.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Nick Pyenson
[isbn]
In Spying on Whales, whale paleontologist Nick Pyenson takes us on a scientific adventure around the globe to investigate the past, present, and future of whales. His enthusiasm is catching, and this marvelous scientific exploration is accessible, fascinating, and inspiring.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Ruth Ozeki
[isbn]
A Tale for the Time Being is a hard book to describe. First of all, it’s two stories in one — the story of Ruth Ozeki (the character, who may or may not also be Ruth Ozeki, the author), a writer living on a Pacific Northwest island where a diary from Japan washes up on the beach, and Nao, the teenaged Japanese journal writer whose story Ruth gets caught up in. But it’s so much more than that — it’s also the story of Nao’s family, Ruth’s... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Katherine Dunn
[isbn]
As a teenager who often felt alone in my weirdness, reading Geek Love changed EVERYTHING for me. Discovering this story of a circus family that purposefully experiments with drugs and chemicals to create children (and therefore performers) with physical deformities rocked my world! The idea that weird could be considered good, that uniqueness was a gift, and that differences should be celebrated? Well, that was mind-blowing. Fast forward... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Karl Marlantes
[isbn]
Despite its length, Deep River is a quick read. Over the course of several decades, it follows the life of Aino, a Finnish woman who comes to the PNW in the early 1900s with her brothers, and is chock-full of wonderful characters, settings, and historical and political detailS. Seven hundred-plus pages still aren't enough!
Recommended by Leah C.
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John Zada
[isbn]
John Zada's lifelong interest in the legend of Sasquatch leads him to British Columbia in this well-written travelogue. I loved this exploration of the land and people that have kept these legends alive, especially when he delves into what it says about our society that these legends still hold such interest. Fascinating stuff!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Kate Atkinson
[isbn]
Jackson Brodie is back! The protagonist of Kate Atkinson's terrific mystery series, he is funny, dark, kind, and understated — as are the books themselves. Atkinson always approaches her characters with compassion and understanding, which helps keep her mysteries (centered around lost girls) from sliding into too-dark territory. More Jackson, please!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Philip Pullman
[isbn]
Wow, was I nervous before I started this, worrying it wouldn't be as good as its predecessors. Luckily, I loved it just as much, if not more, than the His Dark Materials series. Returning to Lyra's world was like coming home again, and I enjoyed every minute of it. This book has it all — wonderful characters and world-building, clever, smart writing, incisive (and relevant) political commentary, perfect pacing and mood development… I never... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Andy Ricker and JJ Goode
[isbn]
Portland chef Andy Ricker is one of the best, both in terms of his food and his writing. While his recipes can be complicated, his encouraging tone makes them accessible. In Pok Pok Noodles, his love of both noodles and Thailand shines through. Delicious, in every sense of the word!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Mallory Loehr
[isbn]
Friends, I have a confession to make: I love narwhals... and reading I'm a Narwhal has just made me love them even more! This super cute, 1960s-inspired Golden Book is fun to look at and learn from — a great read-aloud for burgeoning narwhal lovers like me.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Elizabeth Acevedo
[isbn]
Elizabeth Acevedo has worked her magic again in With the Fire on High, crafting a beautifully written novel that is both realistic and fantastical, touching, funny, thought-provoking, inspirational, diverse, and thoroughly entertaining, all at the same time. Bonus: it's chock-full of fantastic food descriptions!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Leda Meredith
[isbn]
I’m not actually a forager myself, but The Skillful Forager makes me want to become one. It’s pretty much a perfect book — the author’s dedication to this practice is evident on every page, it’s so incredibly thoughtful and well put together. So much helpful information can be found here, whether you’re an established forager or just getting started. I can’t wait to give it a try!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Erica Feldmann
[isbn]
When I heard the founder of the amazing store HausWitch was writing a book, I was on board before I even knew what the book was about. Luckily, after it arrived I discovered it's as inspirational, fun, and flat-out wonderful as I had hoped! In this small but jam-packed volume, Erica Feldmann walks you through how to make your house into a home — not just with decorating tips, but with energy and intention that you can use to create a true refuge.... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Anna Joyce
[isbn]
When local artist Anna Joyce got involved in dyeing, she noticed there was a hole in the literature — something with a focus on the use of traditional techniques, but aiming for a modern, contemporary aesthetic. So she decided to write it herself! While most dye books tend to focus more on background and technique, this book puts projects in the spotlight so you can jump in and get your feet wet without too much prep time or practice. All the... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Fiona Heckels, Karen Lawton, Belle Benfield
[isbn]
The Sensory Herbal Handbook is the first book by the dynamic British herbal healing duo The Seed Sistas. They have created a practice wholly their own — drawing on many different cultural traditions and spiritualties yet grounded in science, managing to be creative, joyful, practical, and substantive, all at the same time… and surprisingly, all these disparate elements balance each other out, fit together, and just plain old make sense... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Questlove
[isbn]
Books written by celebrities can sometimes fall flat, but Creative Quest, Questlove's book about the process of creativity, is surprisingly terrific. It's smart but readable, inspirational but no-nonsense, and chock-full of advice and stories. Super practical and informative in addition to entertaining — what's not to love?
Recommended by Leah C.
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Richard Powers
[isbn]
In The Overstory, Richard Powers has created a beautiful tribute to nature, connection, activism, and home, and I was captivated from the first page. In this interlocking story with multiple time periods and characters, we are reminded that there is still so much to learn about our world.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Margaret Atwood, Renee Nault
[isbn]
I feel blasphemous saying this, but I think this edition of The Handmaid's Tale might actually be better than the original. The spare prose and harrowing details lend themselves well to the visual form, and the gorgeous illustrations perfectly capture the mood and tension of the story. Great for old fans and newbies alike!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Peter Wohlleben and Jane Billinghurst
[isbn]
In The Secret Wisdom of Nature, Wohlleben wraps up his nature trilogy by exploring the interconnectedness of the natural world. There's so much to learn here about how living things affect each other, and even more to ponder for the future — I found it both moving and thought-provoking.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Charlie Jane Anders
[isbn]
I don't usually read sci-fi, but I will read ANYTHING Charlie Jane Anders writes. She is constantly breathing new life into old genres, and writes characters so well you immediately feel like you know them. This book, her newest, is incredibly moving and thought-provoking — I can't stop thinking about it!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Lynne Kelly
[isbn]
Twelve-year-old Iris is deaf, and often feels cut off from her peers. When she learns about a whale that is similarly isolated, she hatches a plan to help him. This book is so very lovely, and packs in a ton of beautiful messages about the importance of things like belonging, hope, and fighting for what you believe in.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Elizabeth Mccracken
[isbn]
I'm so happy Elizabeth McCracken is back! As always, in this new novel she excels at place-building, characterization, and crafting wonderful language — her sentences stick with you long after turning the last page. This reminded me of many of my favorite things, from John Irving to the Gilmore Girls... I didn't want it to end.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Christopher Paolini
[isbn]
What a treat to return to Alagaësia after so many years and spend some time with these beloved characters! This short story collection provides a few tidbits and treats for long-term Inheritance Cycle fans, as well as what appear to be clues for another novel to come... fingers crossed!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Naomi Alderman
[isbn]
In this work of speculative fiction, women develop the ability to electrocute others, which engenders tremendous shifts in social and political power. Alderman masterfully explores the concept of power and how it affects both individuals and the world, without providing any easy answers. Extremely thought-provoking!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Alex Bell
[isbn]
Oh boy, did I love this book. The Polar Bear Explorers’ Club is Golden Compass-esque in all the best ways — there's adventure, friendship, a plucky female protagonist, a role model dad, quirky and fun magical creatures... and this time, it's light enough to appeal to a VERY broad range of audiences. An eight-year-old can enjoy this book, an adult looking for an escape from the real world can enjoy this book... there's something... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Rebecca Solnit
[isbn]
Rebecca Solnit knows that words matter, and she wields them with respect. While reading this collection of essays, I underlined pretty much every sentence — it's just that good! Slim but beautifully written, this provides a new and much-needed perspective on the events we are experiencing at this moment in American history. I came away inspired and energized, no small feat right now.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Ursula K Le Guin
[isbn]
In So Far So Good, the last poems written by Ursula K. Le Guin have been gathered into a spare yet powerful collection. These poems reflect the process of making sense of a life as it comes to an end, and are filled with thoughts on old age, nature, and family. A moving farewell to a literary legend.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Lonely Planet
[isbn]
In need of some inspiration to explore the great outdoors? Try Epic Hikes of the World! Lots of photos, tips, and historical tidbits accompany each entry, along with suggestions for similar expeditions. It's also a great resource for armchair hikers — I may not ever climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, but I sure enjoyed reading about it.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Mac Barnett, Mike Lowery
[isbn]
Mac was just a normal kid — until the Queen called and asked for his help solving a mystery. I laughed my way through this globetrotting adventure, filled with illustrations and historical and geographical details that you pick up without realizing it (shhh). I can't wait to see what Mac gets up to next!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Mary Beard
[isbn]
I love Mary Beard, and her latest study of ancient art, How Do We Look, does not disappoint. Her language is straightforward and accessible, and she always focuses on the most interesting questions: Who made this? Why? And, perhaps most importantly, how did people see it? Fascinating stuff for readers of all levels.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Barbara Kingsolver
[isbn]
Kingsolver hits it out of the park with this topical, fascinating exploration of sociopolitical upheaval. Set in the same town during two different time periods, we encounter relatable and (mostly) likable characters struggling with issues surrounding shelter, science, faith, health, and progress. Required reading for anyone currently wrestling with the idea of the American Dream.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Rick Riordan
[isbn]
Great news: The gang from Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard is back! Each of these funny, thoroughly entertaining stories is narrated by a character from the original series and set in one of the nine worlds of Norse mythology. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the series, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Avis Lang
[isbn]
Neil deGrasse Tyson is never afraid to tell it like it is, and in this book he brings to light the historical intersections between science, the military, and power. He is clearly personally ambivalent about that relationship, but provides a balanced view and never shies away from the truth.This is a big book, but it's worth it!
Recommended by Leah C.
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David Grann
[isbn]
The Lost City of Z is the perfect book to read when you're antsy for some armchair adventuring. This clever tale is both the story of Percy Fawcett, a British explorer who traveled to the Amazon in 1925 and never returned, and Grann, as he retraces Fawcett's steps in an attempt to learn what happened to him. But it's so much more than that — it's also about the Western tradition of exploration and exploitation, the punishing Amazonian... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Hilary Mantel
[isbn]
In this masterpiece (and its equally excellent sequel, Bring Up the Bodies), Hilary Mantel accomplishes the unthinkable: she breathes new life into the story of Henry VIII. I understand your skepticism — I didn't think it was possible either! — but somehow, magically, she has done just that. Everything about Wolf Hall is meticulous, from the research to the language to the characterization, and while this level of detail can... (read more)
Recommended by Leah C.
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Sarah Henning
[isbn]
This gothic tale is a reimagining of the origin story of The Little Mermaid's scary Ursula. Filled with historical detail, friendship, love, magic, and mermaids, I found it stormy, atmospheric, and thoroughly enjoyable. How does a villainous monster come to be? Dive into this adventurous story to find out!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Denis Markell
[isbn]
I really enjoyed this fun romp through the world of fantasy role-playing games! This book is a great option for budding RPG fanatics and anyone trying to figure out their place in this (and many other) world(s). Touches on issues of friendship, identity, and community. Plus: dragons!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Tui T Sutherland
[isbn]
Surprise — the Wings of Fire series is back! And this time, there are brand-new dragon tribes heading our way. But are these new dragons friendly and cooperative, or are they coming to disrupt the peace our heroes have fought so hard to win? Only one way to find out!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Marisha Pessl
[isbn]
To say much of anything about the plot would spoil it, so instead I'll just say this: Go get this book ASAP! Highly recommended for fans of Tana French, Donna Tartt, and other crafters of dark and twisty tales you have to stay up past bedtime to finish.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Rosamund Young
[isbn]
In this incredibly valuable work, Young provides a gentle yet compelling case for treating farm animals humanely. She demonstrates how these animals have more personality and intelligence than we have been led to believe, and describes how treating them well actually improves food production and quality. So why not give them a chance to live happy lives?
Recommended by Leah C.
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Yuval Noah Harari
[isbn]
In Sapiens, Yuval Noah Harari sets out to document the entire history of humankind — no small feat! The end result is an impressive work of scholarship, drawing from many different fields while still providing a unique perspective. Plentiful illustrations and a strong personal voice ensure that this book will provide food for thought for years to come.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Mark Kurlansky
[isbn]
In Milk!, Mark Kurlansky once again takes a small, seemingly inconsequential topic and illuminates how big and important it really is. The cultural history of milk is long and fraught with political and societal consequences, and considering the battles still raging today, I want to give everyone a copy of this book.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Rick Riordan
[isbn]
A lot has changed for Magnus recently — he’s dead now, for one thing, and living in Valhalla. Unfortunately, one thing that hasn’t changed is that Thor’s hammer is still missing, and he’s getting really cranky about it. Can Magnus and his friends save the day before it’s too late?
Recommended by Leah C.
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Leslye Walton
[isbn]
Nor comes from a long line of witches bound to a stormy island on the Pacific Coast, but she would prefer to just blend into the background... until her absent mother becomes an overnight celebrity, and Nor finds herself at the center of events that threaten everything she holds dear.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Kelli Anderson
[isbn]
Yes, This Book Is a Planetarium is a planetarium — but it’s also a speaker, a perpetual calendar, and several other tools made only with the magic of paper! This pop-up masterpiece is a beautiful work of art that provides hours of entertainment.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Mariko Tamaki, Brooke Allen
[isbn]
This addition to the Lumberjanes universe is the first in a series of chapter books centered on the spunky adventurers we know and love. In this book, the gang goes on a series of supernatural adventures featuring everyone’s favorite magical creature, the unicorn!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Sean Tejaratchi
[isbn]
Quick, run to the grocery store — there’s a special on Raisin Zeta Jones! Welcome to the world of Liartown, where artist, provocateur, and former Powell’s Books employee Sean Tejaratchi incisively satirizes the ephemera of pop culture. Liartown is dark, clever, hilarious, and entirely unique.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Katie O'Neill
[isbn]
Somehow The Tea Dragon Society manages to pack about a million important messages into one adorable volume, without being preachy or sentimental. Instead it is a testament to love — love of family, friends, pets, tradition, craft, tea, generosity, and kindness…all of the best things in life!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Nichole Graf, Micah Sherman, David Stein, and Liz Crain
[isbn]
Grow Your Own provides a much needed DIY approach to cannabis cultivation, wrapped up in a modern, accessible, and pretty package. It provides all of the info you'll need to get started learning about, growing, and enjoying cannabis.
Recommended by Leah C.
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