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Ali
It's so great being at the Bookloft! To be surrounded by books and people who love them feeds mind and soul. I'm interested in all things sociology and psychology. I also love true adventure and survival stories, and will happily summit a mountain, or survive a shipwreck or planecrash from the comfy crevasses of my easy chair :) I am fascinated by true crime, mostly because of the deep delve into the criminal mind and the forensics. Of course, an absorbing novel is always great, and I'm a huge fan of memoirs. "Really, Ali, more books?" is a question I often hear when I arrive home. My shelves are overflowing, so the ARCs have started to become building blocks for tables and tiny perches until I can get to them. There are so many good ones, and so little time. Come on in and tell us which books YOU like best. Thanks for being a reader~ and a supporter of independant bookshops!
Ali's Staff Picks:
$32.00
ISBN: 9780593230251
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Random House - August 4th, 2020
BOOKLOFT TOP 100 OF ALL TIME!
#4 as of 2/11/22
"Big and heavy, both in size and subject. Isabel Wilkerson examines and illuminates how caste works, not just in Nazi Germany, not just in India, but also unnamed, unacknowledged, in the U.S. I found myself reading, then re-reading many parts of this book, needing time to process and absorb information which, though expertly and beautifully presented, is searing to the soul of anyone who cares. White privilege is just another name for caste. And yes, it exists in America.
$16.99
ISBN: 9780060899226
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Ecco - January 9th, 2007
I devoured this deliciously salty memoir. From his first oyster (which he remembers as fondly as losing his virginity), to the bad-ass culture of NY city kitchens, (you have to be tough as nails to succeed), Bourdain tells the gritty, raunchy stories of his early years with carving knife precision and gut busting humor. You will be thoroughly entertained, quite possibly grossed out, and definitely enlightened.
This is a great autobiography by a great legend, gone too soon. But damn, what a life! I can't wait to dig my fork into his other works. A++++
$20.00
ISBN: 9781644281086
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Rare Bird Books - July 27th, 2021
OH NO! drinking, drugging and living the high life, hapless Rob gets mixed up in a pot trafficking debacle. Here's a memoir that starts out with a bang and never lets up. Zigging and zagging between his privileged-yet-painful childhood and his eventual mishap with the law, Rob invites us, no holds barred, to his personal sh*t show. Segewick, ever the natural blue-blood despite his wreckage, is effortlessly erudite; his eloquence and wry humor are in full swing throughout his writing. I for one, have high hopes that the affable, fallable Mr. Segewick will consider putting pen to paper for a sequel. What a gem.
And YES he IS Kyra's brother ...
$15.00
ISBN: 9780998313931
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Crow Flies Press - May 1st, 2022
Alexis. His story, as remarkable as it is, is only one among so many. Striving to make it to America for a chance at escaping violence, poverty and hopelessness, his journey is harrowing, and yet so typical. The danger and fear, the setbacks, exhaustion, the thirst and hunger. With perseverance and guts, luck, and lots of faith, Alex is here and sharing his experience. This pick is also a great tool for ESL students and teachers. In a single book it is presented both in English and Spanish.
$28.00
ISBN: 9780593315491
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Anchor - May 3rd, 2022
As a big fan of true survival climbing books, I was anxious to see if a work of fiction could be as exciting. This did not disappoint. Take the inherent risks of mountaineering, and add in a psycho killer who could be any number of your climbing companions, and brrrr you've got a chilling page turner!
$17.00
ISBN: 9780593134351
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Random House Trade Paperbacks - March 1st, 2022
I must admit it was the cover art which led me to open this small but powerful book of poetry. Once inside I could not look away from her words... one Somalian woman daring to speak the truth of many. Women gravely wounded, but not silenced. Each poem, no, each line, and at times even each word will invoke an intake of breath, a twist to the gut, a startle of pain, a flash of understanding.
Tip: I spent much of my first reading looking up the meaning of certain Somali words. You don't need to! The definitions are all there in the final pages.
$18.99
ISBN: 9780306828058
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Hachette Books - November 30th, 2021
I loved this memoir so much. Raised by his loving but overburdened mother, hoping for any contact from his self absorbed father, JR receives an education in life, love, and becoming a man from his Uncle Charlie and the regulars at their neighborhood watering hole. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you will root for this exceptional young man as he makes his tender way to adulthood.
$20.00
ISBN: 9780143110910
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Penguin Books - May 1st, 2018
ASTOUNDING! There is so much information packed into this book. If you love psychology, biology and sociology, you've hit the jackpot. Behave covers all the angles in the discussion about what makes us tick. It's full of stats, research, and experiments, with examples and insights. And if you need a quick basic lesson on neuroscience, RNA/DNA proteins, or endocrinology, it's here too. I feel as though I have just completed a master class; a grand tour of the human psyche with Mr. Sapolsky as my smart, funny, (and rather well behaved) professor.
$16.95
ISBN: 9781643752044
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Algonquin Books - May 10th, 2022
In a last ditch prep-before-departure, Michael Ian Black puts his two cents in on all things "life" in this loving, familial, and humorous letter to his college-bound son. Filled with stories of his own growing up, in fits and starts, and ultimately finding balance in manhood: no subject is off limits. Machismo, pride, violence, dating, consent, emotional IQ, love, intimacy, privilege and so much more. Finally, the importance of giving back to the world in whatever way makes sense, and finding one's own recipe for happiness. I loved this one!
$18.99
ISBN: 9780316299220
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Back Bay Books - September 28th, 2021
I love Malcolm Gladwell! Do you think that you're a good judge of character; that you can trust your instincts and all you've ever learned about people? Hmmm...don't be so sure. From courtrooms to campuses, policing to politics, from our persona lives to international affairs, Malcolm takes a deep dive into the way our flawed conceptions of others can wreak havoc and even lead to disaster. Another GREAT READ for Gladwell fans.
$26.99
ISBN: 9780063070172
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: HarperOne - May 25th, 2021
This is a great blend of memoir and true survival. Claire endures days of pain, fear and hopelessness in the desert after a tragic fall. She is in a remote location and immobilized where she lays, with a shattered pelvis. Her resourcefulness, bravery, and calm, are inspiring. Claire's writing segues beautifully between her past and present as she recounts her story.
$17.00
ISBN: 9780812984965
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: One World - August 18th, 2015
This jarring book deepened my understanding of the rampant inequalities in our justice system. I found it hard to sleep after reading the devastating stories of Walter McMillian and others in prisons, on death row, in solitary confinement... the children, unfairly there, the blatant disregard... it breaks my heart.
I am in awe of Mr. Stevenson who has dedicated his career to help these forgotten souls. He is, to them, and angel of relief and mercy. It is an ultimately hopeful read.
$22.00
ISBN: 9781538737897
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Grand Central Publishing - April 5th, 2022
Elizabeth Alexander, moved me to tears with her inauguration poem, "Praise Song for the Day," And she has done it again with this small but powerful book. The Trayvon Generation refers to children coming of age during these agonizing years of unrest and violence: those who have experienced almost daily images of brutality and injustice. They saw the dawning of the Black Lives Matter movement, the resurgenceof hate groups, and increase in racial violence and unabashed discrimination. It is the generation of Alexander's own children and her many beloved students. She has seen and experienced the fallout firsthand. Alexander weaves together anecdotes, poetry, and art pertinent to our understanding and draws it all into a stirring, revelatory work. I learned so much, and have many notes for follow up and further exploration. This is an excellent book.
$28.99
ISBN: 9781250861504
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Henry Holt and Co. - September 20th, 2022
WOW! In this fascinating, totally engaging book Tyson explains aspects of the human condition through the lens of science, math, probability, and physics. In other words, just the facts. We do tend to complicate things when we muck up those facts with ego, dogma, wishful thinking, and other misguided human habits of the mind. So much that humanity struggles with is covered in this book. I found it very hard to put down. Highly recommended!
$28.00
ISBN: 9780735213616
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Riverhead Books - May 26th, 2020
I had no idea how much the simple act of breathing with purpose can influence our health. James Nestor is a genius at telling us the story of breathing correctly and its potential positive impact, both mental and physical. Inside these pages is information which just may change your life. Whether you take just a few pieces of advice, or commit fully to the advanced techniques, this is an excellent, informative, and exciting read.
$9.99
ISBN: 9781536224092
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Candlewick - May 17th, 2022
A delightful and sweet book about kindness... how one act can inspire another, and how it all comes back to you in the end.
$27.00
ISBN: 9781643753041
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Algonquin Books - October 25th, 2022
I am in awe of Ross Gay's writing. He dances and weaves perfectly with prose. Replete with explanatory asides, footnotes, and wildly run-on sentences, reading him is like a warm and deep conversation with an exceptionally cool, funny, and emotionally wise friend. I laughed, and I wept, and honestly, I fell a little in love. Don't miss this.
$26.95
ISBN: 9781771649797
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Greystone Books - September 27th, 2022
Geoffroy, a loner and lover of nature, lived with several generations of roe deer in northern France, and this is his amazing account. Without any of the "essentials' of outdoor survival, he manages to eke out an existance and earn the trust and friendship of these beautiful, surprisingly individual animals, as well as foxes, badgers, and other forest dwellers. Beautifully translated by Shaun Whiteside, who captures the poetry and passion of the writing, this book will leave you with a new respect and compassion for the plight of the animals who have lost much of their habitat due to humans' activities. I was cheered by the happy ending, though. This is one great read.
$17.99
ISBN: 9780316330459
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - October 18th, 2022
Teddy stays awake all night protecting his sleeping boy from all kinds of night time intruders. Is he the worst teddy ever because he's sleepy during the day? NO! He is the best! We could all use a loyal teddy bear friend like him.
$18.99
ISBN: 9781536214970
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Walker Books US - May 24th, 2022
This is a beautiful story about a sweet, lonely dog and the little neighbor who befriends him. She visits every chance she gets to read him stories and keep him company. He longs to go with her when she leaves. Will they ever get to spend more time together? Will he ever get a chance to experience life in a cozy home with his best pal, instead of being sad and alone outside? Read on, and be ready for happy tears to flow. A wonderful book in every way.
$32.50
ISBN: 9780062846679
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Harper Design - October 18th, 2022
I adore this Maira Kalman art book. Women are holding all kinds of things. Things big and small, weighty and wispy, tangible and untangible. Isn't that just like a woman? The colorful paintings are paired with perfect titles, some succinct, some with just a bit more explanation, creating delightful little stories throughout. I want to gift this to all my friends. It's a bright, beautiful gem of a book.
$17.99
ISBN: 9781538719992
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Grand Central Publishing - September 27th, 2022
In A Life on Our Planet, Sir David Attenborough, the legendary author and documentarian, age 96, garners his vast amount of knowledge and experience, summarizing it into a work of vital import regarding the fate of planet Earth. He provides a timeline leading up to the present state of our natural environment's decline, as well as a timeline for what is to come if we continue to barrel down our current path. This brilliant, caring man has a plan. He also trusts that the most advanced and capable beings on Earth, humans, will have the sense to save ourselves, our fellow living creatures, our future, and our only home. He may have faith in us, but time is no longer on our side. A must read for every member of the human race.
$16.99
ISBN: 9780439287197
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Orchard Books - September 1st, 2001
a JOYOUS STORY ABOUT FINDING YOUR OWN SPECIAL GROOVE AND DANCING TO YOUR OWN BEAT. I LOVE THE RHYTHMIC RHYMING CADENCE AND THE VERY ADORABLE ANIMAL CHARACTERS, EACH WITH THEIR OWN FUNKY STYLE! I LOVE THIS ONE!
$9.99
ISBN: 9781649088062
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Pageturner Press and Media - July 8th, 2021
THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL BOOK ABOUT A BOY WHO IS CONFINED TO A WHEELCHAIR, AND THE SPECIAL GIRAFFE WHO TEACHES HI THAT HE CAN SEE AS FAR AS HE WANTS TO, BY USING HIS IMAGINATION. HEARTWARMING !
$18.99
ISBN: 9781338850109
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Orchard Books - September 6th, 2022
Dave is a gentle sweetie who feels sad that he isn't big and rough like his brother Clarence. But he blooms when he discovers that he has his own special qualities and can use them in a wonderful creative way which makes him and others oh so happy. A colorful and joyful book.
$18.99
ISBN: 9781536213027
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Candlewick - September 13th, 2022
I love this story! It's like a beginner's graphic novel; with just fabulous pictures to tell the harrowing and exciting tale of a young boy's quest to find fire for his tribe. His resourcefulness, bravery, and above all his kindness to a baby animal in peril, pay off. He is welcomed home a hero with the precious fire and a new best buddy. It's so good!
$17.99
ISBN: 9780062845245
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Balzer + Bray - June 7th, 2022
Murray is a shy little guy. He is jumpy and nervous about almost everything! His family is loving, patient, and encouraging, though. They always have his back! This is a sweet story about facing your fears, and the soothing balm of unconditional love and acceptance. Murray is so adorable, you just want to hug him.
$18.99
ISBN: 9780062954473
Availability: NOT ON HAND, but usually Ships in 2-7 Days
Published: Michael di Capua Books - June 28th, 2022
Two precocious pups, one bold and one timid, break out of their home for a day of great adventures. Kids will love these silly hot dogs, with their dueling personalities. The illustrations are perfect. And all is well that ends well. Great fun!
$18.99
ISBN: 9780593308431
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers - May 24th, 2022
A hot and cranky little dachshund and his frazzled Mum head to the beach for a fresh outlook on a steamy summer day. As you turn the pages you can feel the oppressive city heat, then slowly you get the refreshing feeling of lovely cool breezes as the duo nears the seashore. Each wonderfully detailed illustration is an entire story in itself. What a simply charming book in every way.