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 Children by Melissa Albert (Morrow, $32, 9780063487437). "Alternating between the otherworldliness of a gothic children's story and a deceptively mundane narrative, Albert expertly weaves two timelines into a thoroughly creepy tale that teases like a cold breath on the back of your neck." --Heather Herbaugh, Mitzi's Books, Rapid City, S.Dak.
Marion by Leah Rowan (St. Martin's Press, $27, 9780593702048). "As a debut, Marion is fresh, daring, and immensely promising. A sharp, gutsy reimagining that delivers tension, atmosphere, and explorations of sisterhood, survival, and reclaiming narrative power." --Keri Matranga, Tide Turners Books & More, Poquoson, Va.
Paperback
Katabasis by R.F. Kuang (Harper Voyager, $18, 9780063021488). "I'd follow R.F. Kuang anywhere--and that includes hell! Deep, dark, and atmospheric, Katabasis balances academia and danger perfectly, solidifying Kuang as an expert in the genre." --Kassie King, The Novel Neighbor, Webster Groves, Mo.
Ages 4-8
The Dog Who Was (Almost) Perfect by Jack Kurland (Frances Lincoln Children's Books, $18.99, 9781836007753). "A charming, clever, and reassuring tale about loving (and being loved for) your perfectly-imperfect self. I want everyone to meet Doris!" --Chelsea Bromley, Bromley's Books, Marquette, Mich.
Ages 8-12
The Island at the Edge of Night by Lucy Strange (Chicken House, $19.99, 9781338686494). "A brooding tale set on a remote island off the coast of Scotland with courageous kids and nasty villains. Love how a touch of fairytale blends with the science of trees." --Kristine Jelstrom-Hamill, Buttonwood Books and Toys, Cohasset, Mass.
Ages 13+
Encore!: A Graphic Novel by Miles Toriko Burks (HarperAlley, $18.99, 9780063282452). "A charming young adult story with wonderful illustrations. The story is fun and relatable and the characters feel like real teens making real choices. The pacing is great, and the story kept me smiling and rooting for Clay and Aron." --Miracle Lucketti, Ballast Book Company, Bremerton, Wash.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
