Dinosaur toys standing on stack of books
Dino-mite! Books and more

Revised

October 29, 2019
Whether you're looking for holiday gifts for others or a title to take up yourself, we have ideas about books, music and movies! Read on for our 2019 faves-- you'll find selections for all ages and just about every genre.

Library staff loved these 128 titles published in 2019.

Kara R says:
Learn how Dr. King's legendary "I Have a Dream" speech came to be.
A Place to Land
Andrew C says:
Spalding has long been a virtuoso performer and visionary songwriter. Now, with her "12 Little Spells," she has become a musical healer.
12 Little Spells
Ann P says:
This National Book Award winner for Young People's Literature celebrates a year that started with a bang... or at least a ton of molasses.
1919: The Year that Changed America
Stephanie B says:
One of the best Beauty and the Beast retellings. Strong female lead? Check. Mysterious world? Check. Diverse characters? Check. Love? Maybe...
A Curse So Dark and Lonely
Sandy D says:
Romance abounds in this touching, funny Christmas story that is magical from start to finish.
A Wedding in December
Carol V says:
Shakespeare's retirement is painted with some artistic license, but the portrait this film creates is captivating and strikingly relatable.
All Is True
Jeff D says:
Are you a fan of groups like the Spinners and the Ojays? Do you wonder why nobody makes that sweet soul music today? This CD is for you.
American Love Call
Ann P says:
Science fiction has never really been my jam, but I'll read anything these authors write. True space adventures with wonderful, sarcastic characters!
Aurora Rising
Heather W says:
Librarian confession: I haven't read Pride and Prejudice, but if it's anything like this modern Canadian Muslim rom-com, I really need to.
Ayesha at Last
Sarah C says:
A dark and edgy thriller told through flashbacks complete with cunning secrets, shocking reveals and a twisty ending that make it oh-so-readable!
Beautiful Bad
Ellie K says:
Because... one small moment can change a life!
Because
Annie C says:
At least one comic in this collection will make every bibliophile chuckle. A great read when you're in the mood for something funny and quick.
Book Love
Carol V says:
Gather your friends, get some popcorn and bask in this heartfelt, hilarious, BFF adventure. Perfect for a dreary fall day!
Booksmart
Sandy D says:
This needs to be one of the first books you pack for the beach this season.
California Girls
Monica B says:
He's back! After a 13-year wait, Thomas Harris takes a leap away from Hannibal Lecter and moves forward with a new cast of characters in Miami.
Cari Mora
Kate F says:
A delightful graphic novel debut about friendship and finding the place you "click."
Click
Erin B says:
As the worst meal prepper in the land, I'm usually dubious when I see the words "save your sanity" in the title of any cookbook, but this one is true!
Cook Once Eat All Week
Ellie K says:
I can read this book to my toddler 10,000 times without wanting to claw my eyes out!
Cookie
Jess P says:
Lizzo is on a one-woman mission to get the party started, so hurry up and get there with these summer bangers!
Cuz I Love You
Ann P says:
Rock and roll-- the good, the bad and the ugly. How does a band at the top of its game fall so quickly?
Daisy Jones & the Six
Annie C says:
Hilarious, heartfelt and wonderfully filthy. Ali Wong does a great job bringing her jokes to the page and they will have you laughing the whole time.
Dear Girls
Kristin D says:
Julie Murphy's characters are always full of heart, and Sweet Pea is just that.
Dear Sweet Pea
Sarah C says:
He may be cute and furry, but this little koala is very upset and he just isn't going to take it anymore.
Don't Call Me Bear!
Jeff D says:
Bank robbery or super-villain? Call Spider-man or Batman. When things get really weird call the Doom Patrol. This show is as crazy as the comics.
Doom Patrol (Season 1)
Carol V says:
A compassionate study of the complex relationship building to a climax between humans and grizzlies, as they are forced to leave the mountains.
Down from the Mountain
Meredith R says:
Should perfection be a human quality? (Hint: Probably not.)
Eventown
Sarah C says:
This sweet charmer will make you laugh, cry and cheer for life's second chances. Not too heavy, not too light; this perfect summer read is just right!
Evvie Drake Starts Over
Morgan H says:
Further proof that the ever-insightful and relatable Liana Finck does, in fact, live inside my brain.
Excuse Me: Cartoons, Complaints and Notes to Self
April O says:
Scrummy recipes that will do quite nicely in a pinch and help you raise your baking game! On your mark, get set, bake!
Fast Cakes: Easy Bakes in Minutes
Ann P says:
I am not a huge fan of teen romance books, but this one was quirky fun and an excellent debut. Frankly, while I loved Frank Li, I shipped Q.
Frankly in Love
Coleman M says:
Keep a chalk bag nearby for the most palm-sweat-inducing and uplifting documentary of the year.
Free Solo
Morgan H says:
A perfectly creepy compilation of ghost stories chock-full of chilling illustrations and unexpected twists-- just in time for spooky season.
Ghost: Thirteen Haunting Tales to Tell
Ann P says:
We all need at least one friend, hopefully more, we can count on and it doesn't matter where and when they come into your life. BFFs rule!
Girls of July
Jess P says:
A history of hip-hop, a personal memoir and a perfect encapsulation of a time and sound.
Go Ahead in the Rain
Jess P says:
Wildly entertaining for all kinds of viewers, including demons, angels, antichrists, horsemen, hellhounds, witches, witchfinders, mediums and humans.
Good Omens
Meredith R says:
I had to binder clip the last few pages closed so I wouldn't be tempted to peek at the ending of this one.
Greystone Secrets: The Strangers
Ann P says:
From Ohio author Mindy McGinnis, this book is uncomfortable, brutally honest, heartwrenching and, sadly, all too common.
Heroine
Andrew C says:
Whatever your age or experience, please do give this one a chance; You'll go on a journey, before you know, You'll be a hip-hop-hippety high five pro!
High Five
Ann P says:
This new record, from the goddess P!nk, is on constant rotation in my car, on my phone and in my house.
Hurts 2b Human
Monica B says:
Heather Land is more than just funny, Snapchat-filtered videos. She takes on the ridiculousness of everyday life with a laugh and I Ain't Doin' It.
I Ain't Doin' It
Andrew C says:
This madcap missing-person tale nimbly balances thrills and heart, and has characters that feel like old pals from the moment you meet them.
If You're Out There
Jess P says:
Just in time for the haunting season, Chbosky returns with this spine-chilling homage to another spooky Stephen.
Imaginary Friend
Coleman M says:
The only thing heavier than planetary collapse is this pulse-pounding, face-melting, thrash metal epic exploring that very subject.
Infest the Rats' Nest
Sandy D says:
Undercover intelligence agent Paul McGrath assumes the perfect cover to become invisible. Jack Reacher fans, enjoy.
Invisible
Sarah L says:
A solid and informative read. More evidence that I should resist doing the dishes.
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men
Jess P says:
Keanu has a gun fight while on horseback in this one, and it is above and beyond any John-Wick-on-a-horse scenario you can imagine.
John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum
Stephanie B says:
Not only was this memoir hilarious, it was heartwarming and perfectly honest about pregnancy, fertility and reproductive health.
Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos
April O says:
With adorable illustrations and a heart-warming story, Kiki and Jax can spark joy for all ages!
Kiki & Jax: The Life-Changing Magic of Friendship
Desi T says:
Anderson uses the exploration of manipulation and coercion to craft a thought-provoking narrative.
Let's Go Swimming on Doomsday
Annie C says:
Ramen + comics + cookbooks?! Three of my favorite things. Make sure you have ramen within easy grasp, cause this'll stoke the craving in a major way.
Let's Make Ramen! A Comic Book Cookbook
Alison R says:
Each story in this collection explores motherhood in all its forms and complexities. And each story is fantastic.
Look How Happy I'm Making You
Kristin D says:
Engaging characters and an epic story had me absorbed immediately. Reserve copies for your book club now!
Lost Roses
Leah B says:
Elvis, Puck and Lupin stole my heart in this hilarious graphic novel! Don't miss the important breaking headlines from these good boys!
Lupin Leaps In
Amanda K says:
Completely heart-wrenching and heart-warming, this eye-opening journey is one of frustrating circumstance and sheer determination.
Maid
Andrew C says:
A maverick animal behaviorist makes his most approachable and awe-inspiring case yet for animals having inner lives as rich and nuanced as humans.
Mama's Last Hug
Amanda K says:
Trip a little light fantastic with this practically perfect blend of nostalgia and originality.
Mary Poppins Returns
Erin B says:
Rarely does a book make me snort out loud and force me to hold a mirror up to my own identity at the same time! Insightful and heartening.
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone
Morgan H says:
A genre-bending and life-affirming cookbook of the highest order that celebrates the redemptive power of cooking, sharing and gobbling food.
Midnight Chicken
Annie C says:
Darkseid eating a veggie tray is my new favorite thing in comics. No previous Mister Miracle knowledge is required. Tom King's version is fantastic!
Mister Miracle
Coleman M says:
Found these guys when looking for new punk. I've been listening to some pretty dark songs. Yeah, I like them a lot.
Morbid Stuff
Ann P says:
Exquisitely illustrated, short nonfiction for kids (and adults). Seriously... spectacular!
Moth: An Evolution Story
Kristin D says:
The sweetest picture book featuring the sweetest family around. 
My Cat Looks Like My Dad
Heather W says:
This may be the most disturbingly twisted book I've read since Gone Girl.
My Lovely Wife
Morgan H says:
Raina Telgemeier fans shouldn't miss this laugh-out-loud graphic novel filled with lots of heart, awesome art and characters that feel like friends.
New Kid
Sarah L says:
Get inspired by Greta Thunberg and kick off 2020 with some important activism.
No One Is too Small to Make a Difference
Sarah L says:
Everyone should read this book. I truly don't know how else to say it.
No Visible Bruises
Kristin D says:
A sincere insight into navigating change from a tween with sensory processing disorder.
Not If I Can Help It
Annie C says:
I felt like I was being pushed and pulled through another person's memories, witnessing both the ugly and the beautiful. Stunning and devastating.
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
Sandy D says:
The combination of Paris and a quaint bookshop makes a magical setting for this story of friendship and love.
One Summer in Paris
Kate F says:
A beautiful novel in verse, moving and lyrical, with wide-ranging emotions. Like the main character Jude says, I was happy and sad at the same time.
Other Words for Home
Sarah L says:
Can you believe?! From your favorite "Queer Eye" star comes this raw memoir, highlighting Jonathan's struggles and passions on a journey to self-love.
Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love
April O says:
This was the beauty of all the stars bound into a book! Nova stole my heart as she found her people and her voice!
Planet Earth Is Blue
Meredith R says:
Do read-aloud picture books addressing childhood behavioral challenges work on particularly obstinate cats? Asking for a friend...
Princess Puffybottom... and Darryl
Kate F says:
I recommend reading this adorable, fall-themed book with some hot apple cider in hand, pumpkins ready to carve. Embrace the autumnal goodness!
Pumpkinheads
Amanda K says:
Beautifully illustrated and well-paced, this orphan's tale of royal intrigue and convent life will captivate you. Young me would have loved this.
Queen of the Sea
Jeff R says:
Join plucky heroine Queenie as she navigates a maelstrom of plummeting self-esteem, ill-advised hook-ups and familial dysfunction!
Queenie: A Novel
Jess P says:
Only slightly more intense than my own family's game nights.
Ready or Not
Kristin D says:
Start the new decade with this collection of concise lessons on loving yourself. Follow up each one with a hug.
Recipes for Self-Love
Annie C says:
If you woke up tomorrow with a whole new set of memories, which ones would you trust?
Recursion
Sarah L says:
I stopped drinking my tea with sugar, that's how sweet this book was.
Red, White & Royal Blue
Kristin D says:
Sort of like National Velvet for a new generation. A wonderful memoir filled with bravery, wit and adventure.
Rough Magic: Riding the World's Loneliest Horse Race
Kate F says:
An uplifting reminder that every voice matters! From a whisper to a shout, a poem to a painting, we all have something to say.
Say Something!
Alison R says:
Callahan contemplates happiness and contentment with his sparse, yet absolutely beautiful, songs.
Shepherd in a Sheepskin Vest
Sarah C says:
This super quick and twisty whodunit about a neighborhood infested with gossip, scandal, secrets and murder will leave you side-eyeing your neighbors.
Someone We Know
Jess P says:
There aren't enough superlatives in this, or any other, dimension to accurately capture the humor, heart, action, vibrancy and fun of this film.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Stephanie B says:
Described as "Mulan meets Project Runway," and I was not disappointed. Stand back and let the magic unfold.
Spin the Dawn
Stephanie B says:
"Finding your true self" and "friendship is the cornerstone of love" make up the ingredients of this dark fairy tale. Add moths for full flavor.
Stain
Heather W says:
Opposite personalities can make for fabulous friendships-- but that doesn't mean they are always easy.
Stargazing
Annie C says:
Amazing cast of characters; fantastic, Asian-inspired worldbuilding; and the magic elements were impressive. This whole story was incredibly fun!
Steel Crow Saga
Amie W says:
What became of the stepsisters after Cinderella married her prince?
Stepsister
Hannah E says:
This story will find a forever home in your heart.
Stormy
Sandy D says:
Grab your beach bag and head to Sunset Beach for romance and suspense.
Sunset Beach
Hannah E says:
The Mayes' large, family estate on the coastline of Norfolk, England isn't big enough to hide the family's secrets in this tense thriller.
The Au Pair
Hannah E says:
This sweet story about friendship and bravery made me laugh, cry and cheer with these Red Cross Clubmobile Girls.
The Beantown Girls
Lara P says:
Get to know Cussy Mary, her mule Junia and the residents of Troublesome as you travel the library book delivery route through the 1930s KY hills.
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
Sarah L says:
My sleep deprivation fully endorses this book. Sweet, sexy and romantic, I could not put it down. Now, if you'll excuse me, it's naptime. 
The Bride Test
Sarah L says:
First rule of the bromance book club: you don't talk about bromance book club... whoops.
The Bromance Book Club
Sarah C says:
A little mystery, a dash of sci-fi and a ton of twists. This disturbing thriller was odd, fun and completely unexpected.
The Dead Girl in 2A
Carol V says:
Brilliant, fun and deadly, the court of Henry VIII gets new life in 21st-century high school. Read this if you love "Riverdale" or "Mean Girls!"
The Dead Queens Club
Sarah L says:
A subversive period drama featuring a lesbian love triangle? Yes, please!
The Favourite
Sarah L says:
Please understand the complete and total rage I feel toward this book. Specifically, understand how utterly infuriated I feel at HOW CUTE THIS WAS.
The Flatshare
Ann P says:
Teen historical fiction is not just for teens. Ruta Sepetys had me with Between Shades of Gray and kept me with Salt to the Sea. Please keep writing!
The Fountains of Silence
Jeff R says:
Yara Zgheib's nuanced debut presents readers with a powerful and unflinching look at anorexia and the challenges of recovery.
The Girls at 17 Swann Street
Jeff R says:
Newman's "time travel fantasy with a twist" offers readers poignant ruminations on love in a world that's becoming more and more unrecognizable.
The Heavens
Amie W says:
Hollywood history, feminism and horror movies intersect in this biography about an almost-forgotten woman and her contributions to film.
The Lady from the Black Lagoon
Heather W says:
Delicious pies, strong beer and even stronger women make this novel feel as refreshing as a cold drink on a hot day. Excellent on audio, too!
The Lager Queen of Minnesota
Lara P says:
Keep your (credit) cards close to your chest. This is a true story of identity theft that rocked one family's entire world.
The Less People Know about Us
Ann P says:
What would it be like to live underwater with all of London's beauty and then see dolphins swim by? The world building in this book is stunning.
The Light at the Bottom of the World
Morgan H says:
How do we adapt to change? How do we process tragedy and grief? If you're Lucy Everhart, the answer is in the ocean: just follow the sharks.
The Line Tender
Jess P says:
Atmospheric, tense and a tender exploration of family dynamics, The Lost Man cements Jane Harper as a master of the mystery genre.
The Lost Man
Carol V says:
Action, magic and an underdog, this is a fully immersive fantasy story you won't be able to put down. I'm counting down the days till the sequel!
The Merciful Crow
Sandy D says:
A legal thriller filled with unpredictable twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the last word on the last page.
The Murder List
Sandy D says:
Yet again, Michael Connelly works his magic with the great detective, Harry Bosch. Five stars all the way.  
The Night Fire
Annie C says:
Every image is breathtaking. You'll want to take your time with this one and explore one species at a time.
The Photo Ark Vanishing
Sarah L says:
Swipe this book straight to the top of your to-read list so you don't miss Alisha Rai's sweet but oh-so-sexy take on love in the world of dating apps.
The Right Swipe
Cindy H says:
Set in the Scottish Highlands, this audiobook has a fantastic narrator providing the brogue and a shocking ending. I didn't want it to be over!
The Turn of the Key
Ellie K says:
An ode to black excellence and sorrow throughout history. Stunning illustrations and moving verse will give you chills and inspire kids.
The Undefeated
April O says:
Utterly immersive! The fraught relationship between sisters plays beautifully against the backdrop of tensions permeating the homefront during WWII.
The Wartime Sisters
Annie C says:
Powerful and realistic. A beautifully-told story in which memory plays a vital role by showing us that remembering is a part of how we move forward.
The Water Dancer
Kara R says:
Described as part memoir, part manifesto, Thick is a heartbreaking and infuriating look at what black women face in America.
Thick
Sandy D says:
When one juror steals the identity of another juror, a wild courtroom drama unfolds.
Thirteen
Kate F says:
Come along for a magical, fantastical tale of friendship and adventure in this otherworldly graphic novel.
This Was Our Pact
Morgan H says:
Consider this book your golden ticket for a sharply discerning train ride through the wildly-shifting social landscape in the age of Web 2.0.
Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion
Morgan H says:
Sometimes love is big, fast and flashy. And sometimes it's small, slow and brave-- just like sweet Truman.
Truman
Hillary K says:
A snowfall brings piles of frosty fun!
When the Snow Is Deeper Than My Boots Are Tall
Sarah L says:
You, too, can read this book and then barrage your coworkers with fun facts about death while on your lunch break. Not that I speak from experience.
Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?
Carol V says:
This murder mystery features Wolverine, a creepy cult and suspicious FBI agents. What more could you want? Oh, there is also a free companion podcast.
Wolverine: The Long Night
Jeff D says:
These songs were recorded in the '70s, but never released as an album. Here they are, the way Marvin Gaye intended them.  
You're the Man