Compiled by Amy Hall and Allison Senne, Collection Development Librarians with Douglas County Libraries
Mr. Boddington’s Studio: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
By Clement Clarke Moore
Fresh takes on old favorites make great gifts and that’s exactly what has been done in this reimagining of Clement C. Moore’s classic poem with illustrations by Mr. Boddington’s Studio. Colors, patterns, and details distinctive to the New York stationery shop remain timeless but add fresh whimsy. This one is great for Christmas or design enthusiasts of any age.
Cold Turkey
By Corey Rosen Schwartz and Kirsti Call
Turkey wakes up cold (get it!?) and bundles accordingly. However, fantastic feathered friend that he is, he finds himself back where he started after giving away his warm clothing to friends in need. Fortunately, a barnyard bonfire is close behind. Make sure you practice your fake shivering before attempting to read this aloud. Great for fans of puns, dad jokes, and bedtime stories that warm the heart.
Gilded
By Marissa Meyer
Meyer, of “Lunar Chronicles” fame, is back at the fairy tale retelling game with “Gilded.” Inspired by “Rumpelstiltskin,” this YA novel includes ancient curses, star-crossed lovers, and an undead villain. Just dark enough to read curled up by a crackling fire, this title is perfect for fans of fairy tales and German folklore.
Batman and Robin…and Howard
By Jeffrey Brown
After a recent assignment gone wrong, Batman decides his son Damien, who side gigs as Robin, needs some time as a regular kid at Gotham Metro Academy. This is the last thing Damien wants. This juvenile graphic novel is great for Batman’s youngest fans and admirers of Brown’s other work.
American Christmas Stories
By Connie Willis (ed.)
Local gem Connie Willis collects an amazing array of stories from the Civil War to the present in this book. She includes all sorts of genres on all sorts of Christmas themes, from the Nativity to family to dinner. A great collection for the holiday enthusiast on your list or as a hostess gift.
The Apollo Murders
By Chris Hadfield
For the adventure junky. Hadfield is a former astronaut who reimagines the Apollo 18 Mission (which was canceled in our reality) as a mission to sabotage a Russian space station. Problem is, they have a mole. A spy-fi thriller!
Matrix
By Lauren Groff
The critics are RAVING about Groff’s latest novel, a work of historical fiction set in Angevin England where Marie de France is banished to an abbey. Groff beautifully contemplates love, faith and power here. This is for the book lover who has a soft spot for being called literati and/or enjoys the critical darlings.
Around the World in 80 Books
By David Damrosch
Damrosch used his time stuck at home during the pandemic to explore the world through books, reading 80 titles set in different parts of the world. He invites readers to expand their horizons by reading from other countries and cultures.
Baking with Dorie
By Dorie Greenspan
Greenspan is one of Amy’s favorite cookbook authors—she studied with Julia Child, worked at some top-notch restaurants, and her writing is warm and inviting. Also, Amy says the food she makes from Greenspan’s recipes is always a hit.
Led Zeppelin: The Biography
By Bob Spitz
One of the great bands of the ‘70s gets its due from top music writer Spitz, whose love for the group shines here. Great for that rock music historian you know.
Taste: My Life Through Food
By Stanley Tucci
The ever-likable Tucci grew up in a family of food lovers. Here he talks about his life, his love of food, and his adventures (and misadventures) in the kitchen. A nice, light read for your favorite memoir lover or foodie.
100 Slopes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Ski and Snowboard Destinations
By Gordy Megroz
Surely you know someone who likes to think about their skiing or snowboarding bucket list. May we suggest this beautiful, photo-packed book about the best slopes you will find around the world.