Fiction
By Brad Thor
The Russians are considering a nuclear strike, high-level members of the French government are sharing secrets with the Russians, and America’s top-notch spy, ex-SEAL Scott Harvath, must protect a defector while fending off Russian threats with the help of his fiancée and comrades. Though Thor glamorizes the capabilities of intelligence agencies, if you’re looking for a techno-thriller with lots of suspense, action, and gunplay, you’ve come to the right book.
Naval History
The USS Cowpens was one of nine light aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Built on cruiser hulls, they were smaller than the Navy’s fleet carriers. Yet Cowpens and its sisters could be completed quickly, providing extra fast carriers quickly, before the larger Essex-class fleet carriers entered service. This book tells the Cowpens’ story in WWII. It shows how a ship that the U.S. Navy didn’t initially want made a major contribution to the victory in the Pacific.
Writing
By C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis wasn’t just one of the 20th century’s greatest writers; he was also one of history’s greatest writers. Here, through quotes from his many works, as well as his letters to friends, colleagues, and fans, he discusses the art of writing, from its process to its genres, like fiction, poetry, and children’s literature. He also pinpoints the primary reason people do and should write: “Whenever you are fed up with life, start writing.” This book is a wealth of “advice and opinions” on writing.
Mystery
By Ellis Peters
It’s 1138 and King Stephen and Empress Maud are in a war for the crown of England. In Shrewsbury, Brother Cadfael, monk of the Abbey of St. Peter and St. Paul, is sent to prepare 38 men for burial men—men hanged for supporting Maud when Stephen’s forces captured Shrewsbury. He finds 39 bodies, not 38. One is the victim of murder, and Cadfael sets out to solve the mystery. The series’ second book is the first set in England’s 12th-century Anarchy that occupies the rest of the series.
Classics
Edited by Bob Blaisdell
In addition to the Constitution, this handy, inexpensive book includes an abundance of supplemental material: correspondence, speeches, and debates. Selections from the “Federalist Papers,” notes and letters from “Father of the Constitution” James Madison, speeches by Patrick Henry and John Jay, and more make this book ideal for students of any age interested in history and government. Blaisdell’s six-page introduction provides background notes as well as some reflections on this American treasure.
For Kids
By Shirley Neitzel and Nancy Winslow Parker
This charming picture book begins with a jacket, then builds upon itself cumulatively, akin to “The House That Jack Built,” rhyming along as winter layers gradually build to a full array of snow day attire. Simple illustrations are embedded within the text, encouraging even pre-readers to participate in telling the story. A delightful winter read aloud.
