Centerville Branch Staff Picks

This month the staff at the Centerville Branch is offering up some of their favorite books for your consideration.

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
By Jonathan Safran Foer

Why you should read it: Oskar Schell lost his father in 9/11, and in an effort to connect with him, Oskar decides to undertake an epic “scavenger hunt” across the city. Oskar's story is tied to that of his mute grandfather, whose path eventually intersects with Oskar's in a truly unforgettable way.



Let Me In
By John Ajvide Lindqvist

Why you should read it: If you like traditional vampire novels then you must read Let Me In. It is a well written vampire thriller which will have you reading through the night.







Caleb’s Crossing
By Geraldine Brooks

Why you should read it: This story, set in the 1600s in what is now Martha’s Vineyard, is narrated by Bethia Mayfield, a minister’s daughter and good friend of Caleb. Caleb crosses many cultural barriers to become the first Native American to graduate from Harvard College.




Low Pressure
By Sandra Brown

Why you should read it: A woman tries to understand and bring closure to her feelings about the murder of her sister when she was a child.







A Walk in the Woods

Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail 
By Bill Bryson

Why you should read it: This delightful and comical book takes two middle age men on a journey of hiking the Appalachian Trail. They are not prepared physically, mentally or provisionally. The first part of the book is the beginning of their hike and the characters and events along the trail. The book finishes with a nice history of the AT.

Everything You Know about Indians Is Wrong
By Paul Chaat Smith

Why you should read it: This book, by a curator of the National Museum of the American Indian, is a collection of essays on topics ranging from art, to identity, American Indian history beyond the nineteenth century, and the problems of flattering stereotypes. Funny and thoughtful it is a surprisingly fast read; it is an especially good follow-up for anyone who has enjoyed the works of author Sherman Alexi.

We'll be back next month with another library branch and another list of favorites. Until then, let us know in the comments if you have any books you recommend!