From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover: An Indies Introduce Title
The Storm We Made: A Novel by Vanessa Chan (Marysue Rucci Books, $27, 9781668015148). "An incredible book from a strong new voice, focusing on the choices that a mother makes in the middle of colonial occupation during World War II. Vanessa Chan touches upon the murky grey areas of survival in a time of oppression and upheaval." --Jesse Hassinger, Odyssey Bookshop, South Hadley, Mass.
Hardcover
Mercury: A Novel by Amy Jo Burns (Celadon Books, $29, 9781250908568). "An extraordinary novel! Mercury is the lyrically written, unputdownable story of the Joseph brothers and the women who hold them together. I adored this family's remarkable journey through love and loyalty, loss, and forgiveness." --Anderson McKean, Page and Palette, Fairhope, Ala.
Paperback
Familia: A Novel by Lauren E. Rico (Kensington, $17.95, 9781496744647). "A transformative story about how we find ourselves and what makes family. It's about how our advantages shape our lives and world view, a crime thriller in places, and a journey into a fractured sisterhood. One of my favorite books of the year." --Sara Crow, Crow & Co. Books, Hutchinson, Kan.
Ages 4 to 8
Angela's Glacier by Jordan Scott, illus. by Diana Sudyka (Neal Porter Books, $18.99, 9780823450824). "Angela's Glacier is a heartwarming reminder of why we need to live in sync with nature, not just near it. Beautifully illustrated and sweetly told." --Bex Frankeberger, Books Are Magic, Brooklyn, N.Y.
Ages 10+
Courtesy of Cupid by Nashae Jones (Aladdin, $17.99, 9781665939881). "So, EJ is Cupid's daughter. Yes, the Cupid, and she's inherited his powers. Will she use that power only for good, even against her nemesis Trevor? This sweet middle grade romcom is great for readers who are not quite ready for YA books." --Paul Swydan, The Silver Unicorn Bookstore, Acton, Mass.
Teen Readers: An Indies Introduce Title
Shut Up, This Is Serious by Carolina Ixta (Quill Tree Books, $19.99, 9780063287860). "I loved this thoughtful and impactful coming-of-age story! The book is anchored by Belén and Leti's friendship, and the girls face problems with family, school, and growing up. A powerful debut!" --Ann Branson, Beach Books, Seaside, Ore.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]