Book of the Month
The Amber Spyglass
The Amber Spyglass" wraps up Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy with Lyra and Will facing terrible risks. They team up with Iorek Byrnison, an armored bear, and two tiny Gallivespian spies to explore a grim, never-before-seen world. Meanwhile, Dr. Mary Malone crafts an incredible Amber Spyglass while evading an assassin. Lord Asriel leads a brilliant angel army in a huge battle. As war erupts and mysterious Dust vanishes from the sky, everything hinges on these kids and the straightforward truth of one small story.
352 pages
Leading for Next Month
Book Recommendations
1984
In a world where the government watches every move, Winston Smith dares to rebel through love. But in this society, loving someone can mean facing death. Big Brother is always watching, making it a constant struggle to maintain any sense of freedom. This timeless tale reminds us that true liberty comes from the ability to question and challenge ideas, a message that remains powerful even decades after its creation.
88 pages
A Burnt-Out Case
A man working at a leper colony in the Congo meets a doctor who shares his struggle with faith. Both have lost their belief in God, but they're drawn together by their shared experience. They work side by side, caring for the patients and trying to find meaning in their lives. The story explores their journey, filled with moments of doubt, hope, and unexpected connections. It's a powerful tale of two souls searching for answers in a world that often seems cruel and indifferent.
352 pages
A Heart Full of Headstones
336 pages
A Little Life
This story follows four friends navigating life in New York City after college. At its heart is Jude, a brilliant lawyer with a painful past marked by abuse and trauma. His journey intertwines with his close-knit group of friends—Malcolm, an architect; Willem, an actor; and JB, an artist—as they support each other through careers, love, and loss. The narrative delves deep into friendship, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection amid profound suffering.
800 pages
All About Love
239 pages
An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincol
A People’s History of the United States
Ever wondered what people's limbs say about their emotions? Or why lie detection fails without context? This isn't just another book on body language—it's a deep dive into human psychology and behavior. Discover how our past shapes our present, and learn to spot subtle signals that reveal true feelings. Boost your emotional intelligence, understand motivations, and master the art of quick, meaningful connections. It's like having a cheat code for human nature, helping you decode thoughts and intentions to navigate relationships with confidence.
176 pages
Art sex music
A trailblazing musician shares her journey from challenging musical boundaries with avant-garde groups like Throbbing Gristle to pushing artistic limits with COUM Transmissions. She recounts her provocative performances and controversial exhibitions, including the infamous Prostitution show that sparked national outrage. Alongside her groundbreaking work in music and art, she also shares her experiences as a pornographic model and striptease artiste, all while defying societal norms and redefining the intersection of morality, erotica, and art. This memoir offers a raw, unfiltered look into a life dedicated to creative rebellion and fearless self-expression.
502 pages
A short history of nearly everything
Ever wonder about the big questions like how the universe began or how we got here? This book takes you on a journey through time, from the Big Bang to the discovery of tiny particles, exploring evolution and the earth’s history along the way. Written in simple, easy-to-understand language, it makes complex topics like chemistry, fossils, stars, and even quantum physics feel exciting and approachable. The author wanted to understand science better after feeling left in the dark by textbooks and teachers who never explained the "whys" or "hows." If you’ve ever felt curious but overwhelmed by science, this could be your perfect guide.
592 pages
A Soldier’s Life (Book 6; exact volume title not specified)
Omar Bradley shares his experiences from World War II, offering a firsthand look at the challenges and triumphs of life as a soldier. He takes readers through the battles he fought, the strategies he employed, and the lessons he learned along the way. This memoir provides a personal perspective on the war, highlighting the bravery and resilience of those who served. Bradley's account is both inspiring and educational, giving insight into the mind of a military leader during one of history's most pivotal conflicts.
618 pages
Assimilate
Industrial music rebelled against order and reason, pushing boundaries even further than punk. It all started a century ago, with roots stretching into the mid-1970s and beyond. This exploration dives into the unique attitudes and practices that defined the genre, showing how it challenged norms and carved out its own distinct path in music history.
361 pages
Attack on Titan, Vol. 10
In a desperate race against time, soldiers fight to save villages from giant humanoid creatures called Titans. With their usual defenses down and walls breached, they seek refuge in an abandoned castle. But instead of safety, they find danger lurking in the dark as these Titans turn out to be more active than expected, leading to a bloody night of survival and terror.
Badger’s Moon
In a kingdom gripped by fear, three young girls are brutally murdered on consecutive full moons. Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf step in to unravel the mystery. As time ticks down to the next full moon, they must race against the clock to catch the killer before another life is taken.
265 pages
Below the Layer
Black torch
Jiro Azuma, a ninja with a deep love for animals, gets swept up in an intense battle between ninjas and demons. His world turns upside down as he navigates this dangerous new reality, forced to confront powerful enemies and make tough choices.
192 pages
Carmilla
A young woman finds herself haunted by Carmilla, a mysterious and seductive female vampire who confesses her passionate feelings for the narrator. Set in a secluded castle in Styria, their intense bond unfolds against a backdrop of eerie events and ancient family secrets. Carmilla, later revealed to be Mircalla, Countess Karnstein, embodies the archetype of the lesbian vampire, challenging conventional morality with her unapologetic desire. This gothic tale leaves the nature of their relationship open to interpretation, making it a groundbreaking exploration of forbidden love.
90 pages
Circe
Born the odd one out among powerful gods, Circe finds her true strength in witchcraft. Banished to a lonely island, she encounters legendary figures like the Minotaur, Daedalus, Medea, and Odysseus. As she navigates danger and heartbreak, Circe must decide where she truly belongs—with the gods who cast her out or the mortals she’s grown to love. This spellbinding tale weaves family drama, adventure, and a fierce celebration of a woman’s resilience in a world ruled by men.
416 pages
Commune
272 pages
Communion
This book dives deep into how our views on love have shifted due to feminism, workplaces changing, and self-help trends. It's a call for women to bravely pursue love as a path to freedom, seeing it as a lifelong adventure. It's not just about romance, but about bringing love into every part of life—friendships, family, even ourselves. Think of it as that honest, heartfelt chat every woman should have, whether she's a mom, daughter, friend, or partner.
224 pages
Cool Machine
Coyote America
145 pages
Delta of Venus
In this collection of erotic tales, women explore desire and passion in a world where love drives every action. A daring Hungarian man sweeps affluent women off their feet, leaving with their fortunes. An enigmatic veiled woman chooses companions for intimate encounters at a stylish eatery. Meanwhile, Mathilde, a Parisian milliner, abandons her spouse to chase pleasure in Peru’s opium dens. Each story reveals the raw, unapologetic essence of female sexuality.
261 pages
Design Patterns
Ever found yourself stuck solving the same old coding problems over and over? This book offers a lifeline—a collection of clever, ready-to-use solutions called "patterns" that tackle common design challenges in object-oriented programming. Think of it like a cookbook for coders, with recipes to make your software more adaptable and elegant. It starts by explaining what these patterns are and why they're handy, then dives into 23 practical examples, using Smalltalk and C++ to show you how to apply them. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, these patterns can save you time and frustration, helping you build better software from the ground up.
395 pages
Die Entwicklung des Sozialismus von der Utopie zur Wissenschaft
This classic text explains how socialism evolved from idealistic visions into a practical science. First written in 1880, it breaks down complex ideas so workers could understand them. The book became a key guide for socialists worldwide, selling thousands of copies. It shows why utopian dreams alone aren't enough and how scientific socialism offers real solutions.
84 pages
Dorohedoro, Vol. 15
East of Eden
This book follows two families over three generations in early 1900s California, exploring timeless themes of good vs. evil, identity, and humanity. With characters inspired by real people in the author's life, it's part story, part personal message to his children. The novel's rich storytelling and deep emotions have made its setting famous worldwide.
613 pages
Enlightened Submissive
93 pages
Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
Erotic stories for Punjabi widows
Nikki returns to her Punjabi roots after her father's passing and starts teaching a creative writing class in the local Sikh community. She helps the women in her class find their voices and express themselves creatively, especially when one student introduces erotica into their lessons.
298 pages
Fate of Magic
320 pages
Fire & Blood
This story dives deep into the past of House Targaryen, long before the events of A Song of Ice and Fire. It covers their early days in Westeros, how they got there from Essos, and their complicated relationship with dragons. You'll learn about their battles, both against outsiders and within their own family. It's all about power, family, and the fiery beasts that made the Targaryens who they were.
664 pages
Going Postal
A con artist gets a last-minute reprieve from execution when he's offered a job reviving the city's failing postal service. With mountains of undelivered mail, a crumbling building, and a powerful rival communications company, the task seems impossible. But our hero isn't one to back down from a challenge, especially when there's love, money, and hope on the line.
416 pages
Heartbreaker
464 pages
How to Hide an Empire
Ever wondered about the places the U.S. controls beyond its 50 states? This book takes you on a journey through forgotten islands, atolls, and archipelagos that tell a different story of America's global reach. From guano prospectors to independence fighters, it uncovers surprising events that reshape our understanding of U.S. history. You'll explore Puerto Rico's struggles, the devastating Philippine event, and post-WWII shifts from old-school colonialism to new forms of influence. It's a fresh take on empire and globalization, packed with intriguing tales and a unique perspective.
416 pages
I Am Murdered: George Wythe, Thomas Jefferson, and the Killing That Shocked a New Nation
Japan: A History in Objects
La comédie humaine
37 pages
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
368 pages
Las venas abiertas de América Latina
This powerful work tells the story of Latin America's history through the lens of exploitation, focusing on resources like gold, silver, cacao, and more. It traces how these "veins" of wealth have been extracted from the continent over five centuries, ultimately benefiting the wealthy in the U.S. and Europe. The author blends factual analysis with vivid storytelling, creating an unforgettable narrative that brings history to life. With a passionate voice and sharp insight, it challenges readers to see the past in a new light and understand the ongoing impact of colonialism and capitalism.
379 pages
London Falling
384 pages
Lover Birds
336 pages
Magical Midlife Madness
316 pages
Memoria del fuego I: Los nacimientos
Mr. Mercedes
In a struggling Midwest city, a merciless driver mows down job seekers at a fair, leaving eight dead and many injured. Months later, retired detective Bill Hodges receives a threatening letter from the killer, who calls himself the "perk," and vows another deadly attack. The killer, Brady Hartfield, craves the thrill of destruction and plans an even deadlier scheme. With time running out, Hodges teams up with unlikely allies to stop Brady before he can strike again. This gripping tale pits good against evil in a race against time.
484 pages
Mulengro
In the heart of Canada, Gypsies maintain their traditional Romany ways while living on the fringes of mainstream society. When a string of strange murders occurs, the police search for a human killer, unaware of the supernatural truth known all too well by the Romany people. A sinister force, Mulengro—He Who Walks With Ghosts—is stalking their community, leaving fear and chaos in its wake.
400 pages
Nexus
For the past 100,000 years, humans have gained immense power but now face an existential crisis with ecological collapse, misinformation, and advancing AI. This exploration of human history examines how the flow of information has shaped our world, from the Stone Age to today's populism. It delves into the complex relationship between information and truth, bureaucracy and mythology, wisdom and power. Different societies and political systems have used information to achieve their goals, both positively and negatively. As non-human intelligence threatens our existence, we must consider the urgent choices ahead and rediscover our shared humanity.
816 pages
Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy
Press Start to Play
Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland
See It End
379 pages
Sense and Sensibility
After a father's death leaves his widow and three daughters with little inheritance, they rely on the kindness of relatives while navigating love and loss. Practical Elinor falls for Edward Ferrars, whose family disapproves, and passionate Marianne is drawn to the charming Willoughby, whose intentions may not be pure. As both sisters face heartache, they learn valuable lessons about love and happiness.
464 pages
Sing Sing Files
240 pages
Small Things Like These
In a small Irish town during Christmas time in 1985, a coal merchant named Bill Furlong finds himself at the center of a moral dilemma when he uncovers a secret at the local convent. As he prepares for his busiest season, Bill must grapple with his past and the quiet complicity of his community under the church's control. This story explores the tension between personal conscience and societal expectations, set against the backdrop of a tight-knit town where everyone knows each other but few speak the truth.
91 pages
Smoke and Mirrors
280 pages
Sociopath: A Memoir
Stand on Zanzibar
Imagine a future where corporations rule, screens dominate every relationship, and designer drugs keep people passive. Genetic engineering is everyday life, but the world feels more chaotic than ever. This story dives into a crowded, connected globe spinning wildly out of control, where everyone plays a part—whether they like it or not. It's a wild ride through a world that feels eerily familiar, even though it was written decades ago.
575 pages
Suttree
It follows a man who leaves his wealthy family behind to live on a rundown houseboat by the Tennessee River. He becomes part of a group of misfits, including outcasts and criminals, and finds a way to rise above the grim surroundings through humor and pride.
654 pages
Take Me to Your Leader: Perspectives on Your First Alien Encounter
Teaching to transgress
This book reimagines education as a path to true freedom, urging teachers to push students beyond societal limits tied to race, sex, and class. It's about breaking barriers and empowering learners to think critically and live authentically.
200 pages
The Age-Proof Brain
The Apothecary Diaries (unspecified volume)
The big burn
In the summer of 1910, fierce wildfires raged across Idaho, Montana, and Washington, overwhelming underprepared rangers. Meanwhile, former President Theodore Roosevelt championed conservation, shifting public attitudes towards forests and influencing the Forest Service's mission. This pivotal moment shaped how we manage wildfires even now, connecting past challenges to today's ongoing battles against flames.
336 pages
The Chalice and the Blade: Our History, Our Future
Long ago, people lived in peaceful, fair groups where everyone cared for each other. Then, men took control and forced harsh rules on everyone. Now, we can build a kinder world by bringing back those old, gentle ways.
288 pages
The Coffin of Honey
The Craft of Intelligence
288 pages
The death of the necromancer
A nobleman turned master thief seeks revenge against a count who framed his godfather for necromancy, but his mission takes a dark turn when he encounters terrifying supernatural events tied to an ancient evil lurking in the shadows of Ile-Rien.
544 pages
The Diamond Eye
In the midst of World War II, a quiet librarian named Mila becomes a legendary sniper, earning the nickname "Lady Death" as she fights against the Nazi invasion of Ukraine. After achieving national fame for her 300th kill, she's sent to America on a goodwill tour, where she struggles with loneliness and the aftermath of war. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she befriends Eleanor Roosevelt and connects with another sniper, finding hope for happiness. However, danger looms as an old enemy resurfaces, forcing Mila to face her toughest battle yet, both internally and externally.
The Fellowship of the Ring
In a peaceful corner of Middle-earth called the Shire, a young hobbit named Frodo Baggins inherits a powerful ring from his cousin Bilbo. This ring, forged by the dark lord Sauron to control all others, must be destroyed to prevent Sauron's rise to power. Frodo embarks on a dangerous journey across Middle-earth, joined by a fellowship of friends, to reach the fiery chasm where the ring can be unmade. Along the way, they face treacherous terrain, deadly foes, and the constant threat of the ring's corrupting influence.
492 pages
The gales of November
470 pages
The Glorious Cause
656 pages
The Handmaid’s Tale
In a future where a strict patriarchy rules, a woman called Offred is forced to bear children for the elite men in power. She navigates her life in this oppressive society, trying to hold onto her identity and find ways to resist. This story dives deep into what happens when women lose control over their own bodies and lives, and how they fight back against it all.
463 pages
The Hunger Games
In a future world called Panem, a rich city controls twelve poorer districts. Each year, teens fight to the death on TV in the Hunger Games. We follow Katniss, a brave 16-year-old girl chosen to compete. She faces danger, makes tough choices, and fights for survival while questioning the unfair society around her. The story draws from old myths, gladiator battles, and reality TV. It's a gripping tale about power, control, and standing up for what's right.
514 pages
The Ill-Fitting Skin
The Invention of Yesterday
1 page
The Legend of Drizzt, Vol. 1
The Occasional Human Sacrifice
Theo of Golden
400 pages
The Penelopiad
Ever wonder what really happened during Odysseus' long journey home? This story flips the script, giving voice to Penelope and the twelve maids hanged by Odysseus. Through their eyes, we explore Penelope's life before and during her marriage, and the rumors swirling around her. The maids, as a chorus, ask crucial questions: Why were they hanged? And what was Penelope truly doing? The classic tale you thought you knew unravels, revealing inconsistencies and haunting secrets. It's a fresh, powerful take on a timeless story, seen from those who were silenced before.
199 pages
The Pillars of the Earth
This sweeping tale takes us back to 12th-century England, where a small town dreams of building a magnificent cathedral. As political chaos unfolds, the lives of those who live nearby intertwine with the rise and fall of the church. From humble stonemasons to powerful priests, everyone plays a part in shaping both the cathedral and their own destinies. It's a story of ambition, faith, and the enduring power of human creativity.
992 pages
The Pleiadian Covenant: A Disclosure Thriller
The Return of the King
This story follows the hobbits Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee as they journey to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron. Alongside them are their loyal companions Merry and Pippin, as well as the mighty Aragorn, the wise Gandalf, and other allies. As the war against Sauron reaches its climax, the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance, testing the courage, loyalty, and resilience of our heroes.
686 pages
The Room On The Roof
This story follows a seventeen-year-old boy named Rusty who lives with his guardian after his parents' death. Set in the 1950s in the beautiful hill station of Dehradun, India, Rusty finds comfort and friendship among a group of misfits, including a poet, an artist, and a musician. Together, they explore life's adventures and challenges while living in a room on the roof of a house owned by his Indian friends.
173 pages
The Shore of women
The Tao of Pooh
Ever wonder why Winnie-the-Pooh seems so effortlessly wise? This book reveals how Pooh's simple, gentle way of living aligns perfectly with the ancient principles of Taoism. By exploring Pooh's adventures and the teachings of Taoism side by side, you'll discover practical ways to apply this philosophy to your own life. It's all about embracing simplicity, going with the flow, and finding joy in the present moment—just like our favorite honey-loving bear.
168 pages
The Temple of My Familiar
This story takes us on a journey through time, exploring deep contrasts like black and white, men and women, and freedom versus oppression. At its heart is Suwelo, who keeps returning to Mr. Hal’s tales about Fanny. Together, these elements weave a rich tapestry of history and personal discovery, inviting us to reflect on how these forces shape our lives today.
595 pages
The te of Piglet
Ever wondered how little things make a big difference? This book takes us on a journey through the Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie-the-Pooh and friends explore the Taoist idea of "Te"—the power of smallness, simplicity, and gentleness. It's all about finding strength in being unassuming, seeing the value in what others might overlook, and understanding that sometimes, the smallest among us have the biggest impact. Think of it like a cozy chat with Pooh Bear himself, filled with warmth, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart.
176 pages
The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love
This Paradise
160 pages
To Die in California
312 pages
Toy Soldiers (series; exact volume not specified)
True detective
358 pages
Uzumaki
Ever feel like your life is spiraling out of control? Imagine living in a town where that feeling is literally true. A small Japanese coastal town is trapped in an endless cycle of spirals, turning its residents' lives—and bodies—into twisted nightmares. From seashells to whirlpools to the very marks on skin, the spiral pattern takes over, driving people to madness. As the curse tightens its grip, no one can escape the pull of the whirlpool.
646 pages
White Pond Drive
Wintersmith
In the chalk lands, young witch Tiffany Aching finds herself turning into an embodiment of summer after she can't help but join in a wild dance. Meanwhile, the Wintersmith is on the hunt for his perfect match—and it seems he's found her in Tiffany. This whimsical tale blends humor and magic, following Tiffany's adventures as she navigates this unexpected transformation and confronts the mischievous Wintersmith.
360 pages
Women of the Fairy Tale Resistance
Before the Brothers Grimm, a secret society of women writers shook things up with their own twist on fairy tales, flipping the script on traditional stories. These clever women used their pens to challenge the status quo, creating tales where women weren't just damsels in distress but heroes, leaders, and rebels. Their stories spread like wildfire, sparking a literary revolution that dared to imagine a world where women held the power. This book brings their untold stories back to life, reminding us that the fight for gender equality has always been written into our favorite tales.
240 pages
Women Who Run with the Wolves
490 pages
Yesteryear
Natalie Heller Mills seems to have the perfect life, with a beautiful farmhouse, a handsome cowboy husband, and a thriving social media presence showcasing her idyllic lifestyle. But when she wakes up one morning in a disturbing alternate reality, everything feels eerily familiar yet somehow wrong. Determined to uncover the truth and escape this twisted version of her life, Natalie must navigate this strange new world where nothing is as it seems.
400 pages
