Girl sitting on a stack of books using rolled up cardboard as a telescope
Staff-suggested materials ahead!

Revised

November 16, 2020
Everything else in 2020 may have been upended, but you can always count on library staff to recommend some of the year's best books, music and movies. Because so many of these titles are always available on hoopla and Kanopy, there's no waiting to read, watch or listen. Here's hoping you discover new favorites!

Library staff loved these 88 titles published in 2020.

Sarah C says:
This darker, deadlier version of Hogwarts is fun, twisty and oozing snark! When the school wants to kill you, survival is the only grad requirement.
A Deadly Education
Dierric R says:
Such an inspiring life! A great example of how a dream and determination can produce incredible outcomes.
A Girl Named Rosita
Amanda K says:
"SNL" fans rejoice! The pictures alone are enough to keep you laughing. If you didn't love Jost before, you will now.
A Very Punchable Face
Carol V says:
These short stories are fantastical, dark and humorous all at once. You will find yourself clamoring for the author's previous works!
And I Do Not Forgive You
Libby V says:
Once you make "first contact" with this book, you won't be able to put it down.
Axiom's End
Brian C says:
An intrepid Buckeye's poignant journey to learn the fate of those reckoning with the decline of Ohio's industry.
Barnstorming Ohio To Understand America
Ann P says:
Bang goes the helmet, another hit to the head, bang goes the helmet. "When you love a thing, you gotta love it with everything you got." 
Before the Ever After
Morgan H says:
A fun dive into the thrilling, fascinating and little-known lives of three Black, western heroes who more than earned their place in history.
Black Heroes of the Wild West
Heather W says:
Can fake-dating lead to real love? This sweet and snarky, laugh-out-loud romance will make you want to believe it can.
Boyfriend Material
Amanda K says:
Leap, twirl and pose your way through this dance class and learn that ballet isn't just for girls.
Boys Dance!
Carol V says:
We know you've binge watched Tiger King and discussed it with everyone you know. Continue your foray into big cats and the bizarre with Cat Tale!
Cat Tale
Morgan H says:
Not every book about grief sticks the landing, but this one right here? This one scores a perfect 10 and gets all the gold medals.
Dancing at the Pity Party
Sandy D says:
People in L.A. are being terrorized by the Midnight Man. What are his motives and what does the symbol he leaves at the crime scene mean?
Dark Corners of the Night
Sarah C says:
Heartstrings tugged. Grab your tissues and settle in. Once you start this breathtaking story, you won't stop until you're hugging it at the end.
Dear Edward
Lara P says:
If you think about language, you won't think about it the same way after reading this book. A unique and refreshing take on language's complexities.
Don't Believe a Word
Jess P says:
A wry, gorgeous and endlessly fun remake of the enduring classic.
Emma
Carol V says:
A western heist that is fueled by friendship, the American Dream and one very good cow.
First Cow
Tin C says:
A powerful graphic novel that provides insight into the isolating feeling and fears of being gay.
Flamer
Lisa F says:
"Folklore" is the album we always knew Taylor Swift could make. This gave me goosebumps on a hot summer day.
Folklore
Sarah L says:
For every girl who wants revenge...
Foul Is Fair
Stephanie B says:
Fútbol, feels and feminism! Yes, please! The audiobook for Furia sweeps you into the world and culture of everything Argentinian. A must-listen.
Furia
Coleman M says:
It doesn't matter if I'm doing dishes, working out or running errands. As long as Dua Lipa is blasting out of my speakers, I'm also levitating.
Future Nostalgia
Sarah L says:
Parenthood can be hard and Lucy Knisley's doodles make it easier. Perfect for new parents, a quick read or a laugh. Or all of the above.
Go to Sleep (I Miss You)
Heather H says:
I devoured this book in about three days! Kate White's new thriller keeps piling on the suspense page after page.
Have You Seen Me?
Morgan H says:
A perfect summer adventure story for misfits, introverts and dreamers everywhere-- or anyone whose heart needs a hideout from reality.
Here in the Real World
Ann P says:
A haunting and lyrical debut. I am so proud to be on the committee that chose this as the 2021 Morris Award winner.
If These Wings Could Fly
Jeff D says:
A fascinating book full of information about a largely forgotten era of comics. It was a pleasure to learn about these artists!
Invisible Men
Ellie K says:
The perfect antidote for any of the plans you thought you had for 2020.
Julia's House Moves On
Tin C says:
A bear-y cute and beautifully illustrated story of a girl's bond with a bear.
Kodi
Libby V says:
A chilling debut novel that reveals just how far people are willing to go to protect their families.
Lakewood
Andrew C says:
This strangers-at-an-Airbnb-during-the-(maybe)-apocalypse stunner conjures fight-or-flight intensity, bizarre imagery and achingly personal dilemmas.
Leave the World Behind
Tin C says:
Where is the Pig Wizard? Find out in this fun fantasy adventure. Perfect for fans of Kazu Kibuishi's Amulet series.
Lightfall (Book 1)
April O says:
This book warmed my heart, broke it and put it back together again! Super sweet story about pollution and environmental action.
Little Turtle and the Changing Sea
Hannah M says:
You don't have to be a country music fan to love this book! This personal memoir will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired.
Live in Love
Sarah C says:
A gritty and gut-punching story about sisters, drug addiction and hope that is so relevant to our society right now. Not a comfortable read, but wow!
Long Bright River
Stefanie S says:
If you're not already familiar with Amber Lewis' decorating style, prepare to swoon.
Made for Living
Thad P says:
Walt Longmire's back. A shoebox full of money, a long-lost painting and some inconveniently dead people. What's a sheriff to do but solve the mystery?
Next to Last Stand
Tin C says:
A charming friendship story with animals that feels like a new age Winnie the Pooh. Great first chapter book or a fun story to read together.
Our Friend Hedgehog
Andrew C says:
With surprises at every turn, this wicked satire tightropes between elation and dread and poignantly explores social bonding and inequality.
Parasite = Kisaengch'ung
Jeff D says:
In 2004, Clarke published her first book, now considered a fantasy classic. In 2020, her second novel is just as entertaining and unique.
Piranesi
Julie M says:
A delightful detective story featuring a plucky heroine tackling a mystery that will keep you intrigued until the last page.
Premeditated Myrtle
Ann P says:
It is the illustrations that make this book shine. Aretha would be proud.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Jess P says:
Get tissues for this one. Brandon Taylor's debut novel will pierce your heart and take your breath away.
Real Life
Coleman M says:
El-P and Killer Mike drop another brilliant collection of bangers to remind us that we're still walking in the snow, and it is so, so cold.
Run the Jewels 4
Amanda K says:
A glitzy reimagining of A Room with a View. This upgraded novel of manners will leave you swooning.
Sex and Vanity
Ellie K says:
What's a librarian gotta do to go on Wakandan adventures with the coolest, smartest princess ever? This title was great on audio.
Shuri
Sandy D says:
Take a journey to Blackberry Island to see how the world takes on new meaning for three cousins as they lay plans for life-changing career choices.
Sisters by Choice
Julie M says:
This fresh take on odd-couple friendships will leave you laughing, and just may inspire you to make friends with someone who is nothing like you!
Skunk and Badger
Coleman M says:
As 2020 comes to a close, immerse yourself in this fictional world devastated by a catastrophic pandemic. Just try not to lose any sleep over it.
Sleep Donation
Jess P says:
Feel all the Feelings! It's certainly an experience to laugh AND cry over an MS Paint stick figure.
Solutions and Other Problems
Annie C says:
This horror comic is wonderfully creepy and Erica Slaughter is my new favorite monster hunter.
Something Is Killing the Children (Vol. 1)
Hillary K says:
This not-a-history book offers a fresh, new perspective on issues like slavery, the civil rights movement, the war on drugs and Black Lives Matter.
Stamped
Hannah E says:
Like a cold sweet tea on a hot summer day! Now a Netflix series called "Sweet Magnolias."
Stealing Home
Julie M says:
This salty and sweet story of friendship will win over the grumpiest of readers!
Swashby and the Sea
Carmi D says:
I love the dynamic between fun-loving Dani and grumpy Zaf! Their chemistry flies off the page in this super-sweet and steamy romance.
Take a Hint, Dani Brown
Cora S says:
Who knew a book about street addresses could be so interesting?
The Address Book
Sarah C says:
I truly loved the quirky cast of characters in this delightfully charming and clever little read whose mighty message shimmers and shines.
The Authenticity Project
Hannah E says:
An atmospheric fantasy set in Ireland and a new world beautifully built by Nora Roberts in the first book of her new trilogy.
The Awakening
Desi T says:
This prequel is a thought-provoking examination of one of the most disliked characters in The Hunger Games trilogy.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
Desi T says:
Frederick Joseph's The Black Friend is a frank and compelling discussion about race for White young people. It's a thought-provoking read.
The Black Friend
Leah B says:
Tag along with fierce, smart, resourceful Enola as she skillfully solves mysteries! The game is, once again, afoot!
The Case of the Missing Marquess
Kate F says:
Buckle up for a wild and magical ride with this heart-thumping adventure, a true love letter to the dynamic and ever-changing NYC.
The City We Became
Hannah E says:
Historical fiction at its best! Intriguing, fast-paced plot and great characters. Like a 17th century "Game of Thrones."
The King at the Edge of the World
Jeff D says:
This movie is funny, horrifying and crazy. The acting is great, and it is in beautiful black and white. That is my kind of crazy.
The Lighthouse
Dierric R says:
Reality meets fairytale… simple yet complex… poignant… a must-read!!!
The Magic Fish
Leah B says:
This brilliant, beautiful, philosophical story had me reading until 2am! So thought provoking and hopeful, rich with detail.
The Midnight Library
Annie C says:
A beautiful portrayal of a multi-generational family's experiences coping with war, and their ability to find love and strength in one another.
The Mountains Sing
Sarah L says:
If you're looking to educate yourself on systemic racism, this is a prolific text and a great place to start. It's also available in Spanish!
The New Jim Crow
Heather W says:
A sequel worth reading! I loved the characters, the writing and the audiobook is perfectly cast. There could be no other "Bob."
The One and Only Bob
Jeff D says:
Written by a Native American, this book has an authenticity when detailing reservation life that makes the supernatural elements even more effective.
The Only Good Indians
Ellie K says:
Love "The Crown?" Then you'll enjoy this story of the queen mother and the reminder that we've made it through hard times before and can do it again.
The Queen's Secret
Tin C says:
Ready for an adventure? This interactive graphic novel is sprinkled with puzzles and riddles.
The Runaway Princess
Stephanie B says:
Imagine "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," but an alien and human bond over books and music while falling in love and saving the world.
The Sound of Stars
Sandy D says:
An elite boarding school, a secret club and a deadly game set the tone for mystery and mayhem in this psychological thriller.
The Suicide House
Amie W says:
I recommend reading this creepy mystery with all the lights on. People aren't the only guests staying at the Sun Down Motel!
The Sun Down Motel
Hannah E says:
A delightful mystery full of fun-loving, wise, quirky characters.
The Thursday Murder Club
Kate F says:
Complex, timely and beautifully written. One of my favorites of the year.
The Vanishing Half
Heather W says:
A dreamy, atmospheric fairy tale of a book that begs to be read under a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate nearby. Snuggle in and be swept away.
The Way Past Winter
Desi T says:
I loved the unique blend of mystery and social justice in this compelling story.
This Is My America
Sarah L says:
This work is a beautifully woven, intricate quilt that will resonate with almost any reader. Yaa Gyasi's prose is stunning.
Transcendent Kingdom
Kate F says:
This sweet, coming-of-age graphic novel about identical twins navigating their first year of middle school is a true delight!
Twins
Tin C says:
Move over, hamsters! This new version of the 2008 picture book has the same story about love, but now with gorgeous illustrations to match. 
Uncle Bobby's Wedding
Jeff D says:
Do you love horror? Then you have to read Junji Ito! His stories are eerie and mysterious, but he is also the master of the jump-scare.
Venus in the Blind Spot
Kate F says:
Eye-opening, affirming and so very inspiring.
What We Don't Talk About When We Talk About Fat
Hillary K says:
It's so hard when you can't hug your best friend. This book celebrates all the ways kids can show someone they care, even if they can't be together.
While We Can't Hug
Amy B says:
Oh, what surprises the axolotl, touch-me-not plants and catalpa trees hold, if we only will take a moment to observe.
World of Wonders
Sarah L says:
Already binged "Jane the Virgin" and "Ugly Betty?" Addicted to telenovelas and soaps? Sexy, sweet and filled with romance, this is the book for you!
You Had Me at Hola
Heather W says:
Straighten your crown and wear it with pride.
You Should See Me in a Crown