From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
The Naming of the Birds: A Novel by Paraic O'Donnell (Tin House Books, $28.95, 9781963108033). "Soulfully Sherlockian, with skillfully delineated characters, The Naming of the Birds susurrates easefully into deeper mystery like an enchanted spool of thread through a darkling wood. This is mesmerizing, transporting historical fiction." --Amanda Qassar, Warwick's, La Jolla, Calif.
Hello Stranger: Musings on Modern Intimacies by Manuel Betancourt (Catapult, $27, 9781646222292). "This examination of belonging, vulnerability, privacy, and modern courtship puts into words those feelings that can be too painful to voice. Betancourt's expansive definition of friendship and intimacy is salient in this time of division and loss." --Viktor Hughes, Loudmouth Books, Indianapolis, Ind.
Paperback
The Perfect Home: A Novel by Daniel Kenitz (Scribner, $17.99, 9781668063873). "The Perfect Home delivers two characters with seemingly perfect lives, then upends the story in the most diabolical fashion. If you are looking for an addictive novel, you have found the perfect prescription for a thriller that delivers!" --Pamela Klinger-Horn, Valley Bookseller, Stillwater, Minn.
Ages 4-8
To See an Owl by Matthew Cordell (Random House Studio, $18.99, 9780593649893). "Janie is a young birdwatcher who especially loves owls, but they're very hard to spot. Fortunately, Janie has a lot of determination and is not giving up! An inspiring story accompanied with gorgeous illustrations, perfect for the nature-lover." --Andrew King, Ridgecrest Books, Shoreline, Wash.
Ages 8-12: An Indies Introduce Title
Kaya of the Ocean by Gloria L. Huang (Holiday House, $17.99, 9780823457885). "An absolutely gorgeous story, shining a light on the very real struggles of growing up and feeling different. With incredibly heartfelt writing and a vivid setting, Kaya's story can help young people that struggle with anxiety feel seen and heard." --Jonathan Pope, Prologue Bookshop, Columbus, Ohio
Teen Readers
Everything Is Poison by Joy McCullough (Dutton Books for Young Readers, $19.99, 9780593855874). "A captivating young adult historical novel told both in prose and in verse. Carmela has been patiently waiting for years for her mother to finally let her work in and learn the mysteries of the apothecary. She's soon learning all she can to help the people of Rome." --Jennifer Jones, Bookmiser, Marietta, Ga.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
