books we love

Words by MEGAN ELGIN

There’s nothing better than cozying up with a good book when the weather is less than perfect (and even sometimes when it is). Each issue, I will feature some of my favorite reads across a variety of genres. These books will transport you into the future, back to present day (extraterrestrials included) and from the pop culture of the 1980s to the bomb factories of World War II. As you journey with me, I hope you’ll find a story that speaks to your soul.

Sleeping Giants

by Slyvian Neuvel

A young girl named Rose takes her new bike out for a ride and doesn’t come home. She is found at the bottom of a large hole … sitting in the palm of a giant metal hand.

Seventeen years later, humans have been unable to unlock any of the hand’s secrets. A team of scientists led by Rose continue their research in a secret underground facility hoping to make a breakthrough that will change everything.

This captivating debut novel is a wonderfully detailed and richly imagined story full of science, adventure, humor, romance and intrigue. The story unfolds through a series of interview transcripts conducted by a mysterious unnamed government agent with his own hidden agenda. Read it now and look for “Waking Gods,” the second book in the series coming out in April.

← BOHEMIAN GOSPEL

by Dana Chamblee Carpenter

Set in war-torn and superstitionridden thirteenth-century Bohemia, "Bohemian Gospel" is the story of a girl named Mouse who is born with unnatural senses. From the very beginning, Mouse proves herself to be a strong, unusual heroine as she uses her gifts to save the life of the young King Ottakar — who convinces her to become his personal healer. What follows is a quest of self-discovery, mystery and adventure that will test her every strength.

Mouse is the greatest heroine I have encountered in a long time. She defies the typical female superhero stereotypes and uses her power of intellect, reasoning and persuasion to fight epic battles against the evil that haunts her. “Bohemian Gospel” is the kind of unique tale that will live with you long after the last page is finished. The revelation behind the book’s title, referencing the medieval manuscript, the Codex Gigas, will inspire you to learn more about the actual Codex Gigas (yes, it’s real and the history behind it is fascinating!).

↓ SLACKS & CALLUSES: Our Summer in a Bomber Factory

by Constance Bowman Reid, Illustrated by Clara Marie Allen, Introduction by Sandra M. Gilbert

In 1943 the war effort inspires two spirited young teaches to do their part during summer vacation and they begin working at a bomber plant in San Diego on a B-24 production. Written as they were living it, this is an insightful look at the experiences these women had in a male-dominated field from the change in the attitudes of those around them, to finding common ground with coworkers from different classes and learning to use tools they had never seen before.

“Slacks and Calluses” is a vibrant account that reminds us of an overlooked part of the war effort that forever changed the roles of women in America. Filled with fascinating facts and observations, this is a story everyone should read and remember.