Here are the books that HPL Staff have checked off of their summer reading lists and recommend to you!
As always, links to where these titles can be found in our collection are available.
Happy Reading!
Rose Madder by Stephen King
“This is a story of empowerment and moving forward with a twist.” – Sabrina (IDS Library Assistant)
Content Warning: Domestic Violence
The Crash by Frieda McFadden
“It’s a good time!” – Vanessa C. (Access Services)
Children of Fire by Drew Karpyshyn
“The author used to write for video games so it’s intriguing to see his writing in book form.” – Jonathan (Access Services)
The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester
“Wild lore about the Oxford dictionary. You get to see the correspondence between these two characters and it’s fabulous!” – Libby (Youth Services)
Nightbitch by Rachel Yonder
“This book is great because it shows true motherhood and the psychosis that can happen when you give up your life to take care of children. A lot of it also takes place in the library and at story times which reminds me of what we do here. It shows what people don’t discuss about motherhood.” – Vanessa S. (Children’s Librarian + Manager)
These Heathens by Mia McKenzie
“While dealing with some serious subject matter, Mia McKenzie still manages to bring her signature wit and humor to this heartfelt novel” – Dejeunee (IDS Librarian)
Low Orbit by Kazmir Lee
“Low Orbit hit me hardest through Azar’s relationship with books, which mirrored my own habits at that age of escaping into fiction when life felt too heavy. While I related to their queerness and identity struggles, it was the honest, complicated dynamic with their parents that made the story feel especially personal.” – Tyler (Marketing + Outreach Manager)

An Ancient Witch’s Guide to Modern Dating by Cecilia Edward
“I enjoyed this sweet cozy fantasy about Thorn, a 17th century witch who ends up in 21st Century America after trying to cast a spell to find her true love. She learns that although somethings are very different in the modern world, love is timeless. If like me you have found yourself benefiting from the so called cat distribution system, you will be amused by Edward’s clever twist on the concept and the adorable kitties populating the story, who Thorn can communicate with. This would make a fun beach read or check it out for a not so spooky Autumn evening. Fans of romance and modern fantasies will both enjoy. “-Aimee Harris (IDS Manager)
Compiled by:
Dejeunee Depts
IDS Librarian
