June 2025
Chris’ Audiobook Picks:
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler (2025)
In her usual fashion, Anne Tyler, manages to insert the reader midstream into the complicated domestic life of a semi-dysfunctional family in Baltimore. Gail Baines’s daughter, Debbie, is getting married, and Gail must play host to her ex-husband, Max, and his cat, for three days in June.
Available on Playaway and downloadable from Libby.
Be ready when the luck happens: a memoir by Ina Garten (2024)
Ina narrates her own entertaining, and sometimes difficult, life story about how a girl from Brooklyn, and later Stamford, rose to fame as a cookbook author and a Food Network celebrity chef accompanied by her life partner, Jeffrey.
Narrated by the author. Downloadable from Libby and Palace apps.
Laura’s Picks:
Paladin’s grace by T. Kingfisher (2020)
Finally, a romantasy featuring older adults who exhibit green-flag behavior in their relationships. Also, because this is Kingfisher, headless corpses, conspiracies, magic, and ordinary people trying to do the right thing. This is the first in the Saint of steel series.
John’s Picks:
On Elton John: An Opinionated Guide by Matthew Restall (2025)
A nonstandard biographical look into the monumental career of Sir Elton John. Divided into ten chapters, each section chronicles a different part of John’s life through the lens of both a particular person and song (i.e. Princess Diana/“Candle in the Wind”). Considering all the books that have already been published about John, this is one of the most unique.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024)
The second sequel to popular Sonic franchise directed by Jeff Fowler. Keanu Reeves joins the cast this time, voicing the antagonist, Shadow the Hedgehog. Jim Carrey also takes on a double role as both Dr. Robotnik and [his] grandfather Dr. Gerald Robotnik. A fourth film is currently in development.
Anora (2024)
A romantic dramedy written and directed by Sean Baker and starring Mikey Madison as the titular Anora, an exotic dancer living in New York City. The film chronicles the whirlwind romance between “Ani” and the son of a wealthy Russian family and its ensuing collapse. Bold, and at times provocative, the film has won a multitude of awards including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Madison.
Lauren's Pick:
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers (2016)
A cozy space opera that's light on plot but big on characters. The crew of the tunneling ship Wayfarer has just welcomed a new member, and they're setting off across the galaxy to punch a wormhole into uncharted territory. In this story about found family, it's the journey that matters, not the destination.
Rashmi’s Children's Book Picks:
Missing Momma by Winsome Bingham (4 - 8 years)
When Momma comes home from the military, things aren’t the same. Told from the point of view of a young girl, this gentle story shows how love, care, and family can help us heal. A warm and touching book to read and share together.
Dogs Love Books, Too by Maria Coco (2 - 5 years)
Why do dogs love books? Is it the smell, the taste, or the stories? In this delightful tale, children explore all the reasons dogs might enjoy reading. With playful illustrations and a heartwarming message, this book celebrates the joy of reading and the special bond between humans and canine companions. Perfect for young readers and dog lovers alike.
Baby Animals Trying by Aimee Reid (4 - 8 years)
From first steps to playful leaps, baby animals embark on exciting new adventures. This rhyming picture book celebrates the joy of trying new things, featuring adorable animals and fun facts. A heartwarming read that encourages curiosity and growth.