From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
In the Lobby of the Dream Hotel: A Novel by Genevieve Plunkett (Catapult, $28, 9781646220489). "In the Lobby of the Dream Hotel--a place two lovers who can't be together in the real world might meet--is a beautiful meditation on love, madness, motherhood, and art. Plunkett's writing is achingly gorgeous and Portia is a character for the ages." --Stefanie Kiper, Water Street Bookstore, Exeter, N.H.
He Who Drowned the World: A Novel by Shelley Parker-Chan (Tor Books, $28.99, 9781250621825). "The perfect follow up to She Who Became the Sun. Parker-Chan's latest continues to expertly explore themes of power, desire, and gender queerness. An absolutely riveting and intricate sequel. This book will make you feel all the things!" --Julia DeVarti, Books Are Magic, Brooklyn, N.Y.
Paperback
Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six: A Novel by Lisa Unger (Park Row, $18.99, 9780778334224). "This has family drama, secrets and great characters--so clear your weekend. Every book establishes Lisa Unger as a fantastic thriller writer and storyteller. This will bring even more fans in her camp (or cabin?). She is in her prime!" --Laura Taylor, The Oxford Exchange, Tampa, Fla.
For Ages 4 to 8
Flora's Wish by Fiona Halliday (Dial Books, $18.99, 9780593462454). "A tender story of friendship and grief wrapped in the changing seasons; where comfort comes from being sheltered from harsh winds and cold temperatures. Gorgeous illustrations shape Flora's journey of letting go, but never forgetting." --Amy Lane, Bards Alley, Vienna, Va.
For Ages 8 to 12
Saving Chupie by Amparo Ortiz, illus. by Ronnie Vazquez (HarperAlley, $19.99, 9780062950284). "What would you do if you didn't believe in monsters, then came across a chupacabra? What if that chupacabra was sweet like a puppy? Violeta must save Chupie and show everyone that not all creatures are monstrous in this heartfelt graphic novel." --Jen Steele, Boswell Book Company, Milwaukee, Wis.
For Teen Readers: An Indies Introduce Title
Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99, 9781665922425). "Squid Game meets Ready or Not in this brutal takedown of racism and classism! From every twist and turn to its satisfying conclusion, I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page." --Brandy Herr, Arts & Letters Bookstore, Granbury, Tex.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
