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 Entirely True Story of the Fantastical Mesmerist Nora Grey by Kathleen Kaufman (Kensington, $28, 9781496753908). "This book said, 'What if spiritualism, feminine rage, and the Gothic asylum aesthetic had a seance?' I said, 'Take my money.' Kaufman weaves a darkly mesmerizing tale perfect for fans of Sarah Penner and Alice Hoffman." --Julia Young, Four Seasons Books, Shepherdstown, W.Va.
We Should All Be Birds: A Memoir by Brian Buckbee with Carol Ann Fitzgerald (Tin House Books, $28.99, 9781963108293). "Buckbee's memoir is so raw and introspective, it's as if he performed open-heart surgery on himself. We Should All Be Birds is proof that an epic natural adventure can play out on a landscape as humble as a patch of lawn." --James Crossley, Leviathan Bookstore, St. Louis, Mo.
Paperback
Trying: A Memoir by Chloe Caldwell (Graywolf Press, $18, 9781644453476). "Trying is at first obsessive--a claustrophobia familiar to anyone who has tried and failed to conceive a child--then unconventional and lovely in its freedom. A perfect portrait of a woman living fully, unapologetically, herself." --Jill Yeomans, White Whale Bookstore, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Ages 3-6
When You Go to Dragon School by Chelsea M. Campbell, illus. by Charlene Chua (Feiwel & Friends, $18.99, 9781250293015). "I LOVE IT! The colors are bright and happy, the dragons come in all shapes and sizes and colors, and the children are super diverse. Do not miss this book. It's bound to be a new favorite." --Andrea Iriarte, Molly's Bookstore, Melrose, Mass.
Ages 8-12
On Guard!: A Marshall Middle School Graphic Novel by Cassidy Wasserman (Random House Graphic, $21.99, 9780593649985). "A story about a middle schooler who discovers fencing for the first time! It helps her make friends, gain confidence, and helps with her mental health while struggling with her parent's divorce. Kids navigating big feelings will feel seen in this." --Meghan Bousquet, Titcomb's Bookshop, East Sandwich, Mass.
Ages 12+
The Last Tiger by Julia and Brad Riew (Kokila, $21.99, 9798217002047). "This tale of conflicting households, weaving together a beautiful story of the authors' grandparents, shows us that love truly can conquer all. In a world where order depends on people staying in their place, these star-crossed lovers tell us that some things can't just be left up to fate--fate is what you make of it." --Erin Decker, White Rose Books & More, Kissimmee, Fla.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
