Lists

Celebrating Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. These books for younger readers discuss the significance of Ramadan.

Tags

• Kids
• Muslim Voices
• Holiday

On Grief and Grieving

Grief at losing a loved one is an emotion that we all experience at some point or another. Grief is never easy and can be overwhelming. Here are some books that explore how people have navigated death, as well as titles to help people find their own path and make sense of the extreme emotions that accompany loss.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Romance for Skeptics

Romance might not be everybody's cup of tea, and that's okay. Here are some titles that feature romance in a nontraditional, yet entertaining way.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Romance

Bad Love

If you can't stand conversation hearts because you prefer your hearts black and cold, this is the list for you. This is love gone bad. Romance gone wrong. And the perfect antidote to those with hearts in their eyes.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Music

First Loves: The Best of Young Adult Romance

Fall in love with these sweet books as the teens navigate love and relationships for the first time.

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• Teens
• Romance

Beginner's Guide to World Cinema: Staff Favorites

We love film from around the world! Here's a collection of some our staff favorites.

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International Detective and Mystery Stories

Try a mystery set in locations far and farther away.

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World War II Global Perspective

Explore these lesser-known stories and experiences of people in a number of different countries during World War II.

Tags

• Adults
• History

Family Favorites

Enjoy these suggestions for family viewing. Age recommendations provided by commonsensemedia.org.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV

The Studio Ghibli Experience

Studio Ghibli has created some films that are near and dear to my heart. Here are some books and movies that will transport you to worlds similar to those created by Hayao Miyazaki.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

2022 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2022 Staff Picks: Literary Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Book Club Favorites

2022 Staff Picks: Historical Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Historical Fiction

2022 Staff Picks: Romance

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Romance

2022 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2022 Staff Picks: Biographies and Memoirs

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Biography & Memoir

2022 Staff Picks: Science Fiction and Fantasy

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2022 Staff Picks: Mysteries, Suspense, and Thrillers

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2022 Staff Picks: Horror

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Books for Babies through Preschool

It's important for grown-ups to enjoy the books that are meant to be shared with the littlest readers. These are some we think everyone will enjoy!

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Picture Books for Grades K-3

Most kids in this age group still love to share picture books with their grown-ups, and many are ready for more sophisticated stories and topics, some of which we've included here.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Fiction, Graphic Novels, Readers, and Nonfiction for Grades K-3

As kids in grades K-3 become more independent readers, they start to branch out from their still beloved picture books. It's a great time to explore lots of different topics and types of books.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Staff Picks 2022: Graphic Novels and Nonfiction for Grades 4-5

The number of great graphic novels is growing exponentially, and we couldn't be happier to suggest these 2022 selections, as well as some good nonfiction for kids in grades 4-5.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Staff Picks 2022: Fiction for Grades 4-5

From magic to friend stories to humor, mystery, and folklore, this list is packed with great stories and characters.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Staff Picks 2022: Books for Grades 6-8

From fantasy to finding your own voice, from making bad decisions to living with the consequences, from friendships to romance, there are a lot of books here to love.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Staff Picks

2022 Staff Picks: Teens

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share some of their favorite titles.

Tags

• Teens
• Staff Picks

2022 Staff Picks: Music

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share favorite albums.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2022 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2022 Staff Picks: Television

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share some favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

Suicide Prevention

In collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC, here are some titles that can help provide perspective and solidarity in times of need.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Talking Books 2022

During this monthly book discussion group, we include a wide variety of books. Here are the titles we read in 2022.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Life and Classical Music

From memoirs to mysteries, fall into the beauty, drama, and human connections that can form through classical music and some of the instruments that drive it.

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Adult Book Discussion Titles 2022

These are the books that we have discussed on GoodReads and Instagram Live this year. The discussions and Instagram discussions are still available, so it isn't too late to read and join in the fun. You can also determine if they're a good choice for you or your book club.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Big Topics for Little Kids: Worries and Anxiety

Being worried or anxious is not just for grown-ups: kids feel these things too. These books will help kids identify how they're feeling and learn to manage their feelings so they don't overwhelm them. Part of our big topics for little kids booklist series focusing on grades pre-K-2. Find more books on worries and anxiety: bit.ly/BigTopicsWorry2

Tags

• Kids
• Health & Wellness

The Power of Teen Anger

Although the emotional turbulence of adolescence is often written off as "teen angst," these books celebrate the power of anger and its capacity to change people and communities.

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Great Graphic Novels

Offering both visual and narrative elements, graphic novels offer multiple points of entry into a story, creating a deep and rich reading experience. Here are a few we really love!

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• Teens
• Kids
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2022 Movie Discussion Titles

Each month we screen a movie and then talk about it. These are 2022 films.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

What Is Domestic Violence?

These books introduce the topic of domestic violence, produced in collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships

2022 LitLounge Book Discussion Titles

LitLounge is the North Shore’s social book discussion group, brought to you in partnership with Morton Grove Public Library. We get together the second Wednesday of every month (please see the library calendar for registration information). Here are the books we discussed in 2022.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Colleen Hoover Readalikes

Whether you have read all of Colleen Hoover's books or have one on hold, here are some related books you might also enjoy.

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Romance

Anxiety

These books provide an introduction to anxiety. Produced in collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Recent Books about Covid-19

This year has seen a number of interesting, thoughtful books published about the Covid-19 pandemic. I know that personally, when I look back at the events of the last 2½ years, I’m still trying to make sense of just what happened. I’m grateful to these authors for trying to do just that, by shedding light and giving context to those turbulent times and the long wake we’re still churning in.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Senior Sleuths and Senior Crooks

Solving mysteries (and committing crimes) is not just for the young. These senior sleuths (and crooks) use the wisdom of their years to crack cases and take down bad guys (or to be the bad guy).

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

What Is Depression?

Here is a diverse list of titles to provide an introduction to depression, produced in collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Health & Wellness

Stories to Read in the Dark

The dark can be filled with wonder, nocturnal creatures, and magic. Here are some books that celebrate the enchantment that can only be experienced when the lights are out.

Tags

• Kids

Filipino American Heritage Month

Our staff suggests books and films written by Filipino authors or featuring Filipino characters.

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• Adults

Reel Witches

From movies to TV series, we've got something to cast the right viewing spell.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Witchy Fiction

We’ve conjured up some of our favorite fiction featuring magic and witches. Mostly for adults, with a few for kids and teens.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids

(Subverting) H.P. Lovecraft

"For H.P. Lovecraft, with all my conflicted feelings." Let us recognize the creators who are dealing with the inescapable toxicity of one of the most influential horror/science fiction/fantasy authors of the past century by invading his sandbox and making his toys their own!

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

The Book Was Better Than the Movie

Movie adaptations of beloved books can be polarizing. Here's a list of children's books that have been adapted into movies--whether we like the movie better or not!

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• Kids

Making the Holidays

Are you looking for inspiration to create your own unique holiday gifts this season? Look no further. There is a little something for everyone at every skill level. Happy making!

Tags

• Adults
• Holiday

Gifts from Kids

Just in time for the holidays, here are some crafty books that will show children how they can make cherished gifts for loved ones, step-by-step.

Tags

• Kids
• Holiday

Great Ideas for Photography Gifts

Photography is a fun and creative medium for creating unique, handmade gifts that capture beloved moments, memories, and more. These books offer hundreds of ideas for photography gifts and projects that you can share with your loved ones, as well as tips, tricks, and terms of digital photography that'll help you make great photos.

Tags

• Adults
• Art & Entertainment
• Holiday

Remixed Adult Classics for the Modern Reader

So many classics portray a world where marginalized people either don’t exist or lead awful lives, but these modern adaptations, inspirations, reimaginings, or retellings have reworked the originals to put these groups in the spotlight, all while staying faithful to the classic's themes.

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• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Remixed Classics for Teens

If you tried and could not get into the classics you were assigned to read in school, try these modern adaptations, inspirations, reimaginings, and retellings that address problematic aspects and rework the original stories to put marginal groups in the spotlight, all while staying faithful to the classic's themes.

Tags

• Teens
• Book Club Favorites

Kanopy Favorites

Great movies you can stream using Kanopy. Watch and enjoy.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

What Is Mental Health?

In collaboration with the Douglas Center and MCC, here are titles to help start the conversation on and provide an introduction to mental health.

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• Health & Wellness

Chapter Books with Pictures

Chapter books with pictures allow readers to experience books on multiple levels. Great tools for encouraging new readers, pictures can tell their own story. They can also deepen the reader's understanding of the narrative.

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• Kids

Wandering the Pages of Chicagoland

Enjoy these selections of adult and teen fiction and graphic novels by local authors or that take place in the Chicago area.

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• Adults
• Teens

Beginner's Guide to Horror: Staff Favorites

Library staff share their favorite horror titles.

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• Adults

Beginner's Guide to Horror: Staff-Favorite Classics

Staff recommend their favorite classic horror novels.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Haunted Houses

That noise you hear in the middle of the night--is it the house settling? Or is it something more sinister? In these books, it is the later and the house is haunted. Our staff chose favorite stories about things that go bump in the night.

Tags

• Adults

Great Chicago Detective Stories

Calling all lovers of mystery and the Windy City! Explore Chicago with these great takes on the detective story.

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Adult Romances That Won't Make You Blush

Enjoy these romance titles that are full of charm and intimacy, without graphic details.

Tags

• Adults
• Romance

Back to School

Get ready to go back to school with these great books!

Tags

• Kids

I'm with the Band

From K-pop to rock to country to soca music, this is a fun list about boy bands, girl groups, and pursuing your dreams while falling in love.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Romance
• Music

Perspectives on Disability

Some disabilities are visible, others less apparent—but all are underrepresented in media and popular culture even though one in five people in the United States lives with a disability. All of these books and films show what it is like to live with various disabilities.

Tags

• Adults

Great Summer Reads for Beaches, Hammocks, and Poolsides

Find your next summer read with these fiction titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Remembrance

Juneteenth, also known as Black Independence Day, Jubilee Day, or Emancipation Day for Black Americans, is a holiday that commemorates the day the last enslaved people were emancipated in the United States on June 19, 1865 with the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas. This was two and a half years after slavery was abolished more broadly in the United States through the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, and six months before the 13th Amendment in December 1865 made slavery unconstitutional. It is a day to celebrate freedom and also to remember the genocide of enslaved African Americans.

Tags

• Adults
• Social Justice
• Black Voices

Photography for Kids

As the library's staff photographer, I know that photography is super fun and possible for kids to do. Plus, now that we have camera phones, anyone can take pictures easily and just about anywhere. Want to get started? With these books, you’ll learn about the history of photography, important photographers, tips and tricks, and even get to try your hand at experiments and simple projects and prompts. You’re going to have a blast–I can just picture it!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Art & Entertainment
• Holiday

Picture Books for Tough Times

Books to share with little ones that can provide some inspiration, perspective, and comfort when the world feels like a scary place.

Tags

• Kids

Stories that Reflect

We love fiction because it holds a mirror to humanity, but each mirror reflects something different. The titles spotlighted here are as varied in what they reflect and how they do it as are the authors who wrote the books.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

PRIDE Movies and TV Series

Films you can watch to celebrate Pride Month.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Danger, Romance, Space, Magic, and Lesbian Librarians Saving the Day

Stories with everything the title says, told through a queer lens.

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Songs of Existence

Music that evokes the drama, heartache, struggle, liberation, and beauty of queer lives.

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• Adults
• Music
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Stories of Experience

How people celebrate Pride is as varied as the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. These books share an array of perspectives, but are still only a small selection of the LGBTQIA+ experience.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Resistance, Liberation, and Joy

Too often, we hear about trans experiences rooted in trauma, shame, and fear. It's important that those stories exist, but we argue it's equally (if not more) important that trans stories rooted in joy also exist. Trans people, as well as people of other genders, need to see that the trans community is a beautiful community "that has resistance, liberation, joy and magic at its core" (Cosmopolitan UK).

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• Adults
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Nonfiction Books to Read This Summer

Our staff suggest some fascinating nonfiction books for your summer reading pleasure. Enjoy!

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading

Celebrating Jewish Voices

Explore and get inspired by Jewish biographies, culinary traditions, and memoirs.

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• Adults

Jewish Life and Culture in Film

From feature films to documentaries, explore a wide range of stories of the Jewish experience through film.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Engrossing Stories of Jewish Experience

From fantasy to literary fiction to romance, explore a wide range of stories of the Jewish experience in fiction for adults and teens.

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• Adults
• Teens

Jewish American Heritage Month: Books for Kids

Enjoy these books focusing on Jewish Americans for babies through grade 8.

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• Teens
• Kids

Essential Nonfiction Exploring Asian Culture and Asian American Experiences

To honor Asian and Asian American heritage, we've put together a list of nonfiction books that explore Asian culture and Asian American experiences throughout history.

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• Adults

Enthralling Asian American Fiction

Here are some of our staff's favorite fiction titles written by Asian American authors. These books will make you laugh, cry, and captivate you until the end.

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• Adults

Compelling Pacific Islander Stories

A collection of books and films encapsulating the rich culture and history of the Pacific Islander experience.

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• Adults

Asian Perspectives on Screen

In recent years, the entertainment industry seems to be moving a bit forward in a positive direction when it comes to Asian and Asian American films. In 2020, Parasite, a Korean movie, even made it to the Oscars and won Best Picture. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite movies and TV shows produced, directed, or written by Asian and Asian American creators. Turn on your screen, sit back, and enjoy!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Searching for Clues, Love, and Magic (and Zombies!?)

Here are some of our favorites by Asian American authors—from fun and fascinating mystery, sweet and fiery romance, action-filled and entrancing fantasy, all the way to bone-chilling horror.

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• Adults

Science Fun!

Some science fact, some science fiction, all science fun. Books for preschoolers through grade 5.

Tags

• Kids
• Science & Technology

Hot Summer Reads 2022 (Grades 6-8)

The Hot Summer Reads list for 2022 includes graphic novels, horror, romance, political thrillers, and much more!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading

Cool Summer Reads 2022 (Grades 3-5)

Mysteries, friendships, vampires and dragons, a magical train, two goats, two elephants, a life-changing game, and more. This year's books will keep you guessing, make you laugh, and inspire you.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Breezy Summer Reads 2022 (Grades K-2)

From picture books, to nonfiction, to beginning readers, to chapter books, these terrific books are sure to delight kids in grades K-2 and their grown-ups.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

2022 Oscar Nominees

You can check out these Academy Award nominees from the library.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Women's Stories

Although it is impossible to fully encompass the breadth of women's experience, these are some of our recent favorites.

Tags

• Adults
• Women Voices

Women Overcoming

Women's History Month honors the achievements and contributions of women in history.

Tags

• Adults
• History
• Women Voices

Inspiration: Stories of Women's Accomplishments

These books and films celebrate women who've made an indelible mark on the world, even if the history books previously failed to name them.

Tags

• Adults
• Women Voices

Feminist Movement and Theory

The feminist movement has been around for many decades and has had strong voices in each generation. These books focus on the issues that have gained momentum in recent years, with an emphasis on including the perspectives of all people.

Tags

• Adults
• Women Voices

Coming Together 2022: Books for Adults

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022, Sharing Experiences of Disability. For more information about Coming Together 2022, go to https://www.comingtogether.in

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• Adults
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Teens

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022, Sharing Experiences of Disability. For more information about Coming Together 2022, go to https://www.comingtogether.in

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• Teens
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Grades 6-8

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022: Sharing Experiences of Disability. More at https://www.comingtogether.in

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• Teens
• Kids
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Grades 3-5

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022: Sharing Experiences of Disability. More at https://www.comingtogether.in

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• Kids
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Grades K-2

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022: Sharing Experiences of Disability. More information: https://www.comingtogether.in

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• Kids
• Coming Together

Books You’ll Fall in Love With

Lovely books for babies through teens about love in many forms.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

Brewing a Better Cup of Coffee

Whether you’re a simple fan or a self-proclaimed home barista, these books will get you closer to understanding and mastering your perfect cup of coffee.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

For the Love of Coffee

Pour yourself a cup and get cozy with these coffee-inspired reads.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

Sweet Reads

Our library staff make their swooning and romantic Valentine's Day reading picks.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Romance

Excellence in Black Fiction

Some of the best fiction by Black authors published in 2020 and early 2021.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites
• Black Voices

Preserving Culture and the Power of Inspiration

This list of music and nonfiction books for Black History Month 2022 likely features one or more ways to feed your soul.

Tags

• Adults
• Music
• Black Voices

Black Joy

This list is inspired by Kleaver Cruz's The Black Joy Project, "a digital and real-world effort to center Black joy." Cruz says, "When we acknowledge that we exist in an anti-Black world that is set up to ensure we do not live, to choose life and to choose to enjoy aspects of that life is a radical act. Centering on Black joy [doesn't] ignore the realities of our collective pain; rather, it is about holding the pain and injustices we experience as Black folks around the world in tension with the joy we experience in the pain’s midst. Black joy is healing, resistance, and regeneration."

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• Adults
• Teens
• Black Voices

Black Joy on Screen

In a Vogue article stressing the importance of Black joy, Chante Joseph says, "Where society has told Black people to 'be quiet' or that we’re 'too loud,' reveling in joy is an act of resistance. As our feeds become even more inundated with images of trauma, joy can help us heal, too." Here are some of our favorite depictions of Black joy on screen.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Black Voices

Black Wizards and Lovers and P.I.s, Oh My!

In a Tor.com article entitled "The Role Publishing Plays in the Commodification of Black Pain," L.L. McKinney writes, "We know that for every 'issue' book, we need at least five more where we can go on adventures, fall in love, solve mysteries, be heroes, do everyday things like everyone else. Black readers need to see themselves in narratives outside of racism, slavery, Jim Crow, police brutality. As do non-Black readers.” From cozy mysteries to thrillers, science fiction to fantasy, and romance to horror, here we celebrate some of our favorites.

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Romance
• Black Voices

Thinking and Feeling, and Thinking about Feeling

I don't watch funny movies. I don't read mindlessly. I don't like pop music. What I do like is a lot of drama and self-help books and really feeling my feelings; they are my closest friends. These books (and a CD) have helped me make sense of said friends.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

What to Read If You Loved the Hulu TV Series 'Only Murders in the Building'

Our staff recommend mystery and true crime suggestions.

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• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2021 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2021 Staff Picks: TV Series

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2021 Staff Picks: Mysteries, Thrillers, and Suspense

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2021 Staff Picks: Historical Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Historical Fiction

2021 Staff Picks: Literary Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Book Club Favorites

2021 Staff Picks: Biographies and Memoirs

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Biography & Memoir

2021 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2021 Staff Picks: Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2021 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Teens

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Teens
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Music

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2021 Staff Picks: Grades 6-8

Staff favorites from 2021 for kids in grades 6-8.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Grades 4-5

Staff favorites from 2021 for kids in grades 4-5.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Grades K-3

Staff favorites from 2021 for kids in grades K-3.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Ages 0-5

Staff favorites from 2021 to share with kids ages 0-5.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

Crafting Handmade Gifts

Want to make some handmade gifts this holiday season? Try one of these great crafting books.

Tags

• Adults
• Art & Entertainment
• Holiday

Indigenous Teen Reads

From "heart-achy" romance to trippy dystopian, this list celebrates Native voices all year long.

Tags

• Teens

Honoring Native and Indigenous Voices

Enjoy a selection of movies and TV series about Native and Indigenous people and communities.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Delve into Native and Indigenous Communities, Cultures, and Histories

Broaden your knowledge about the various tribes and the unique challenges Native and Indigenous communities face.

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• Adults
• Teens

Native American and Indigenous Voices in Fiction

Celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, histories, and life experiences of Native and Indigenous people.

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• Adults
• Teens

Honoring Native and Indigenous Voices: Books for Younger Kids

Books by and about Native and Indigenous people and communities for kids ages 0-8.

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• Kids

Honoring Native and Indigenous Voices: Books for Older Kids

Books by and about Native and Indigenous people and communities for kids ages 8 and up.

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• Teens
• Kids

What's to Eat?

Devour some delicious movies about food, cooking, chefs, and restaurants.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Food & Drink

What's on the Menu?

We are excited to share with you a sample of our favorite literary recipes for mystery, love, and life.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

The Joy of Cooking

Want some help with your next meal? Looking to learn more about food from around the world? Our staff share some of their favorite cookbooks from our awesome collection.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

Books for Hispanic Heritage Month (Preschool-Grade 1)

Books by and about people who identify as Hispanic, Latino, Latina, and Latinx, for kids up to grade 1.

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• Kids

Books for Hispanic Heritage Month (Grades 1-8)

Books by and about people who identify as Hispanic, Latino, Latina, and Latinx, for kids in grades 1-8.

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• Teens
• Kids

Free to Read: Books for Older Teens and Adults

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

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• Adults
• Teens

Perspectives of Hispanic Heritage on Screen

This list represents only a small selection of the great diversity of themes, perspective, and genres of Hispanic and Latinx filmmaking and television, but it is a great selection to get you started.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Magic | Realism | More

Whether the author uses a pan-ethnic term such as Latino or Hispanic to describe their identity, or by their family's Hispanic origin group, the rich history of literary tradition (often, but not always, with hints of the fantastic) shines brightly in all of these stories.

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• Adults
• Teens

Free to Read: Picture Books

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

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• Kids

Free to Read: Chapter Books for Kids

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

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• Kids

Free to Read: Books for Kids in Middle School

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

Kingdom of Dragons

Where are the dragons? Our list of suggested books and movies has something for dragon enthusiasts (or dragonologists) of all ages.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Great Family Read-Alouds: Shorter Stories to Share

Even when the kids are older and ready for chapter books, reading aloud together is still a great way to share stories--whether it's at the end of the day, on vacation, on a rainy day, on a snowy day, whenever! These titles are long enough to enjoy in one sitting or a few sittings for families with kids in early elementary grades.

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• Kids

Great Family Read-Alouds: Longer Stories to Share

Even when the kids are older and ready for chapter books, reading aloud together is still a great way to share stories--whether it's at the end of the day, on vacation, on a rainy day, on a snowy day, whenever! These titles are long enough to enjoy for more than a few sittings for families with kids in elementary school and beyond.

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• Kids

Family Audiobooks

These audiobooks for families with kids in grades 4-8 are perfect for listening on a road trip, or a cold winter night, or bedtime, or whenever. These titles are available as CDs, downloadable audiobooks, or preloaded audiobooks.

Tags

• Kids
• Audiobooks
• Summer Reading

Family Audiobooks for Younger Kids

If your child or children are ready to listen to a chapter book, see the titles in this list. These are in a number of formats: CD, downloadable audiobook, or preloaded audiobook--so they are perfect for long road trips! For the preschool crowd, we have a "Books with CDs" picture book section in the library. These books have an accompanying CD that can be played in cars that still have a CD player.

Tags

• Kids
• Audiobooks
• Summer Reading

Interactive Adventures

These books allow you to control the story. Will you survive until the end? Explore different pathways through each story, and see how your choices change the ending. You can always go back and make a different decision. Recommended by Eli O.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Movie Musicals of the 21st Century

These fun "new classics" musicals are one sure way to get your toes tapping. Recommended by Cecilia Cygnar.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

I Like Big Bugs and I Cannot Lie

To commemorate this summer's Brood X Cicada invasion, we've put together a list of our favorite media featuring big bugs.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Pride Films to Watch for Pride Month

Here are some of my own picks to help celebrate Pride Month! Recommended by Cecilia Cygnar.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Beginner's Guide to Audiobooks: Staff Favorites

Library staff share their favorite audiobook titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks

Adventures in Storytelling (for Kids)

The greatest adventure is the one you write! These books will get you started.

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• Kids
• Art & Entertainment
• Science & Technology

Adventures for a Rainy Day (for Kids)

Turn a rainy day into an indoor adventure with these books.

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• Kids
• Art & Entertainment
• Science & Technology

Adventures for Your Senses (for Kids)

Sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing--these books are designed to take you on a sensory adventure.

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• Kids
• Art & Entertainment
• Food & Drink

Adventures for Your Imagination (for Kids)

Books to help you dare to dream.

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• Kids
• Art & Entertainment
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Outdoor Adventures for Kids

Whether you want to read about the great outdoors or go outside and get your hands dirty, these books will get you started.

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• Kids
• Nature & the Environment
• Summer Reading

Pride Books for Younger Kids

Books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, topics, and themes for babies-grade 2.

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• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Pride Books for Grades 3-8

Books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, topics, and themes for kids in grades 3-8.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• LGBTQIA+ Voices

Best Books and Movies of 1971

1971 is my birth year. That would be, let's see...well, it's several decades ago now. I've been thinking a lot about that year, 1971. Richard Nixon was president, the war in Vietnam was still raging, Starbucks opened its first store, and both Missy Elliot and Winona Ryder were born, so I'm in good company. What follows is a smattering of some of the books and films first published or released in that tumultuous year, some 50 years ago.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Book Lovers

Escape into the World of Video Games

Ly, Neil, Penny, and Perry recommend games--in this list, you'll find titles from a variety of genres, from puzzles to story-rich, character-driven games. If you are new to video games, here are some definitions of gaming terms used on this list:

• Platformer: These games heavily feature platforms. To progress, players have to jump between them and avoid obstacles. Super Mario is a popular example of a platform-type game.
• Rhythm: These games use music to enhance the game. Players have to time button presses to the beat of the music playing (sometimes to simulate playing musical instruments). Popular examples include Dance Dance Revolution and Guitar Hero.
• Sandbox: This type of game lets players build their own world to interact with. A popular example is Minecraft.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Humor

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Six

Becca and Allyson lead regular sessions during which staff learn about what everyone is reading or watching. Enjoy some of our latest recommendations.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Five

Library staff members joined Allyson and Becca to bring you what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

Careers in Gaming

The experiential learning team is exploring games this summer, and all that research made us aware of jobs and even college scholarship opportunities in gaming. This list helps you explore current careers in gaming and Esports. What will the future bring? Recommended by Erica.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Humor

Stuck Together

If only forced proximity would always lead to love! In these romantic novels, it does. Content ranges from chaste to steamy.

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• Adults
• Romance
• Humor

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Preschoolers)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Kindergarten-Grade 2)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Grades 3-5)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Grades 6-8)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

Tags

• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Small-Scale Creations

If, like me, you're fascinated by dioramas, model railroads, dollhouses, and all things miniature, then you'll love these books.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Humor

Beyond Manga: The Asian American Experience in Graphic Novels

Many people still think of manga as a Japanese graphic novel when talking about graphic novels with Asian protagonists. Here we have curated several graphic novels written or illustrated by Asian American creators.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Sikh Awareness and Appreciation

The state of Illinois has designated April as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation month to recognize the many ways Sikh Americans have influenced American history, achievement, culture, and innovation.

Tags

• Adults
• Global Perspectives

National Poetry Month

Any day, any month is a good time for poetry, and we have an expansive collection to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite works of poetry from the last few years.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Novels in Verse for Teens and Adults

If you aren't sure how you feel about poetry, novels in verse are a great place to start. The poems come together to tell one overarching story. They are generally short enough to read quickly, and every word and pause is carefully chosen to make the greatest impact.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Poetry Collections on Hoopla

I have found a lot of comfort in poetry collections in the last year. Poems may be short, but the emotion is intense. If you've had trouble reading in the past year, maybe start with some poetry and see where it takes you? A wealth of fantastic poetry collections await on Hoopla. This is only a small fraction of what you will find through this amazing service.

Tags

• Adults
• Art & Entertainment

Embrace Nature

Whether the nature you know is outside your back door or in a remote wilderness destination, there is endless beauty and wonder to be celebrated in the natural world. Skokie library staff share some favorite books about nature and the benefits of getting outdoors.

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• Adults
• Nature & the Environment

Climate SOS

It's been 51 years since the first Earth Day celebration and 15 years since An Inconvenient Truth--Al Gore's attempt to wake up humanity to the planetary emergency--hit theaters. Where are we now with the environment? What is the future of civilization on our planet?

Tags

• Adults
• Nature & the Environment

Hope for the Planet

We could all use a little hope to counter the daily drumbeat of doom. These books describe the efforts, inventions, and policy changes aimed at saving the planet, and suggest what you, too, can do.

Tags

• Adults
• Nature & the Environment

Environmental Disasters and Dystopias

Take heed from this list of climate fiction, a specialized variety of fiction that explores the impact of an accelerating environmental crisis of our own making.

Tags

• Adults
• Nature & the Environment

Caring for Mother Earth

How can kids and families become better stewards of our planet? What does Earth need more of and, even more important, less of? Find the answers with these books for kids of all ages.

Tags

• Kids
• Nature & the Environment

Movies with an Environmental Message

Enjoy these selections.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Nature & the Environment

Watch and Listen to Poetry

Enjoy these selections of movies and audiobooks.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Audiobooks

Poetry for Kids: Grades 3+

Poetry for kids who don't think they like poetry! Funny, snarky, and heartwarming poetry books that are quick to read and stay with you for a long time.

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• Kids

Poetry for Kids: Preschool-Grade 2

Delightful poetry books for younger kids, featuring animals, nursery rhymes, counting, silliness, and one great big cuddle!

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• Kids

Novels in Verse: Grades 1-4

Some novels in verse are a collection of related poem stories, while others tell just one story using a poetic writing style. Either way, here are some of our favorites for kids in grades 1-4. We hope you find them interesting and inspiring.

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• Kids

Novels in Verse: Grades 5-8

Novels in verse are stories told in poetry rather than prose. Here are some of our favorites for middle school students.

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• Teens

Crochet Cute

I've been crocheting since I was in college. I don't make blankets or hats, but I do make amigurumi (cute little toys). No complicated stitches are required. In fact, most are made using the beginning single crochet stitch. Here are some of my favorite pattern books to get you started making your own adorable creations.

Tags

• Adults
• Art & Entertainment
• Humor

If You Like 'The Great British Baking Show'

While we're waiting patiently for a new season of one of the best cooking competition shows ever, these materials might help make the wait more tolerable. So, get your "soggy bottom" in gear and find out if any of these titles are worthy of a "Hollywood Handshake."

Tags

• Adults
• Food & Drink

If You Like 'All Creatures Great and Small'

Based on the books by Yorkshire, England vet James Alfred Wight (pen name James Herriot), All Creatures Great and Small tells the tale of the "fictional" Herriot and his early life as a vet in a rural Yorkshire practice. The PBS Masterpiece production is the second incarnation of Herriot's books, the first being the 1978-1990 series. Now that the new version is over for the season, check out these materials to help you get through until next season.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Nature & the Environment

Exploring Elemental Creatures

Explore the elemental creatures from myths and legends around the world with these books for kids and teens. Recommended by Eli O.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

BOOMbox at Home: Elements

Enjoy some of our favorite picture books about the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Which one is your favorite?

Tags

• Kids
• Nature & the Environment
• Science & Technology

Riveting Nonfiction for Babies through Grade 2

Help your little ones discover the world around them and awaken their curiosity about distant places or creatures that lived long ago.

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• Kids

Riveting Nonfiction for Grades 3-5

You'll be amazed by all the excitement packed into these fabulous, fact-filled books! From the mysteries of nature, to the icy terrain of Antarctica, and all the way to the moon--we guarantee there is something here for you.

Tags

• Kids

Riveting Nonfiction for Grades 6-8

Enjoy these page-turners from some of the best writers of nonfiction. Daring rescues, scientific mysteries, horrific crimes, tragic lives--they're all here. And they're all true!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

Women Artists and the Power of Creativity for Kids

Be inspired by the lives and creative passions of extraordinary women artists and creators. Enjoy these picture book biographies and great stories to stir your artistic imagination.

Tags

• Kids
• Art & Entertainment
• Women Voices

Women Politicians, Activists, and Peacemakers

These youth titles present fascinating women who made (and are making) our world a better place through their hard work, dedication, and emotional and physical strength.

Tags

• Kids
• Social Justice
• Women Voices

Women in the Director's Chair

Here is a short list of movies directed by women and featuring awesome women. All are from the 2000s and most are quite recent.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Women Voices

Women in the Director's Chair: 21st Century

If you think this is a long list, consider how many films have been directed by men.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Women Voices

Kids 'Guaranteed to Read' Nonfiction

Riveting nonfiction for kids in grades 3-6 who haven't found the right book yet.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Kids 'Guaranteed to Read' Fiction

Engaging, fast-paced fiction for kids in grades 3-6 who haven't found the right book yet.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Good Trouble for Young Children

For Black History Month, our youth team is celebrating the extraordinary life of John Lewis, who stood up and spoke out for civil rights for more than 60 years. Here are some wonderful books about activism for our youngest citizens.

Tags

• Kids
• Social Justice
• Black Voices

Good Trouble for Grades 6-12

We're celebrating the extraordinary legacy of John Lewis, a lifelong civil rights activist and legislator. Learn about his life and how you can change the world for the better by standing up and speaking out for your beliefs.

Tags

• Teens
• Social Justice
• Black Voices

Beginner's Guide to Manga: Staff Favorites

We love these and think you will find something here to love, as well!

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Interesting Ingredients

The experiential learning team is fascinated by all sorts of ingredients, from those found in food to makeup to medicine and more.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Science & Technology

Food in Fiction Picture Books

Food seems like it's everywhere, or maybe we're just hungry all the time. These books are some of our favorites that feature food, from donuts to bao to muffins.

Tags

• Kids

Speaking Up against Injustice

What can kids do to be embody the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. and other activists for change? Here are some great books to help inspire kids of all ages to stand up against injustice.

Tags

• Kids
• Social Justice
• Black Voices

Upbeat Fiction for Your Online Book Club

Is your book club feeling the need for something uplifting to read? Maybe a book that even makes you laugh out loud but also offers something to sink your teeth into? I've scanned the fiction offerings from the last several years, and here are my suggestions.

Tags

• Adults
• Book Club Favorites

Stealth, Smarts, and Skills: Stories for Aspiring Spies

Calling all aspiring spies! Here are some titles to get you sneaking, seeing clues, and solving puzzles. The game is afoot.

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• Kids
• Science & Technology

2020 Patron Picks

Some of the books, films, and TV series you and your neighbors have enjoyed this year.

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• Adults

2020 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Music

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2020 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2020 Staff Picks: Ages 0-5

Our favorite books of 2020 to share with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Grades K-3

Our favorite books of 2020 for kids in kindergarten through 3rd grade.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks 2020: Grades 4-5

Our favorite books of 2020 for kids in 4th and 5th grade.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Grades 6-8

Our favorite books published in 2020 for kids in middle school.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2020 Staff Picks: TV Series

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2020 Staff Picks: Romance

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Romance

2020 Staff Picks: Thrillers, Suspense, and Mysteries

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2020 Staff Picks: Science Fiction, Dystopia, and Fantasy

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2020 Staff Picks: Horror

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Teen

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Teens
• Staff Picks

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Four

Members of our staff join Allyson and Becca to share what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks

Run for President

What in the world drives somebody to actually want to be President of the United States? Ambition, sure, but a level of hubris not found in most. Here is a selection of books exploring this strange, seemingly all-consuming quest to reach the White House.

Tags

• Adults
• Biography & Memoir

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Three

Along with many Skokie Public Library staff members, Allyson and Becca bring you what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

Tags

• Adults

Gothic Movies

While reading the book Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, I started to think about movies. Here are some suggestions for gothic horror, noir, romance, and southern. Enjoy!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Autumn Movies

George Eliot once wrote, “Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.” How about successive films set in or around autumn? What follows is a small harvest of some of cinema's most colorful offerings.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Recent Perspectives on Women's Suffrage

The 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote was passed 100 years ago, in 1920. The library has a wealth of books and movies documenting the 80+ years of struggle leading up to the ratification. But what's special about the following, recently published titles, is that they include the often overlooked stories of minority women--Black, Native American, Mormon, and others--who actively campaigned for equality all across the country.

Tags

• Adults
• Social Justice
• Women Voices

Rhyme Time for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Not only are rhymes lots of fun to hear and say, they also serve as building blocks for reading readiness. Rhymes help children notice the sounds in words and encourage play with those sounds--important steps toward becoming a reader. Filled with clever and creative rhyming stories and poems, this varied list of titles is sure to delight.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Humor

Books about Technology and Screen Time for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Achieving a balanced media diet in this time of pervasive technology is a huge challenge for parents and caregivers, both for themselves and for their children. These engaging picture books and parent guides can help.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group

Tags

• Kids
• Science & Technology

Books about Early Math for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Math opportunities are everywhere, from sorting laundry to cooking to looking for patterns in nature. Early math achievement is highly predictive of later math and reading success, so check out these engaging picture books and caregiver guides that will foster the idea that math learning is for everyone and can be a fun part of kids' everyday lives.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids