From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
Jean: A Novel by Madeleine Dunnigan (W.W. Norton, $29.99, 9781324105640). "Though the story of the 'forbidden love' is not unfamiliar, especially with stories of queer awakenings, a 1970s boarding school for 'troubled boys' felt inventive. This book is an incredible addition to the queer canon and history." --Brady Parkin, The King's English Bookshop, Salt Lake City, Utah
The Hitch by Sara Levine (Roxane Gay Books, $27, 9780802165923). "Sara Levine shows the pain of loneliness, the love of family, and the humor of a corgi's soul entering a woman's nephew. While laughing, readers will get a recipe for cream of tomato soup and a smoky pear margarita. What more could anyone want?" --Nancy Pierce, Bookmiser, Marietta, Ga.
Paperback
Mega Milk: Essays on Family, Fluidity, Whiteness, and Cows by Megan Milks (Feminist Press, $17.95, 9781558613584). "Milks takes on their own last name in this sweeping essay collection that deftly weaves together the dairy industry, white supremacy, and queerness. Mega Milk is thoughtful, vulnerable, and outlandish." --Pauline Hales-Brown, Literary Arts, Portland, Ore.
Ages 3-6
Love Finds a Way by Vern Kousky (Roaring Brook Press, $18.99, 9781250334756). "That grouchy Owl had no chance of hiding from love when he got that guard dog, Brutus! I love it and you will, too." --Leslie Jennings, Brewster Book Store, Brewster, Mass.
Ages 8-12
Gumshoe: A Graphic Novel by Brenna Thummler (HarperAlley, $24.99, 9780063335288). "Willa runs away from home and joins the 'Gumshoe Gang' to help find Two Gum Tilly, the outlaw mail stealer of Arizona. Will they be able to catch Tilly? Read to find out! Perfect for those who are quiet, struggle to make friends, or girls who need to know that they are wonderful just how they are!" --Abby Greaves, Werner Books, Erie, Pa.
Ages 13+
This Is Not a Test: The Definitive Edition by Courtney Summers (Bindery Books, $19.95, 9781967967124). "One of my all-time favorite zombie novels. The best post apocalyptic stories feature character depth along with a horrific scenario. This is the best of all of them and has been one of my favorites since it was published." --Kristian Beverly, Cupboard Maker Books, Enola, Pa.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
