The end of the semester is around the corner. If you are ready to step away from your coursework and into another world, library staff have you covered with these reading recommendations—many of which you can even check out from the Libraries!
Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time by Dava Sobel
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good nonfiction read. Part biography, part history, part scientific exploration, Longitude relates the quest for an accurate way to determine longitude. At first, this book came across as a technical topic, however, when diving in and dedicating my spare time to read this, it quickly became very interesting. I now take GPS for granted after reading this. Hope you all enjoy! I certainly did.
—Jim Boyce, Charles Library evening building supervisor
A Children’s Bible: A Novel by Lydia Millet
This story about the end of the world as we know it— brought about by climate change—may feel a little too real. But it comes from the perspective of the children, which felt fresh to me and particularly poignant. The writing is beautiful, and I’m still thinking about this book months after I put it down.
—Beckie Dashiell, editor
The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson
I thought I had paid attention in science classes over the years until I read this book. I learned so much about the human body, especially how the human body has so many constantly moving parts and yet it operates without you realizing it. Spoiler alert: you’ll pick up a few tips on how to live and breathe a little easier.
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon
If you’re looking for an eerie mystery set during the winter, look no further than The Winter People. The past to present flashbacks and small-town charm kept me captivated.
—Jess Martin, library depository building supervisor
Game Wizards by Jon Peterson
Game Wizards details the first few years of the creation of Dungeons & Dragons, the company TSR that published the game, and the struggles between the games co-creators Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. The book is a wonderful example of art turning into business and all of the pitfalls that can come with it. If you have any interest in the history of games or the history of Dungeons & Dragons, creative disputes, and the pitfalls of starting a business that ends up being successful, this is the book for you.
—Matt Shoemaker, head of the Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
I recently listened to Born a Crime by Trevor Noah. Trevor’s life story was surreal and exciting! Throughout the entire book, he was relatable and humorous, which made deep concepts about his life feel light-hearted and easy to understand.
—Joi Waller, web/graphic designer
Need even more recs?
- Lauri Fennell, public health and social sciences librarian, suggests The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman and The Murmur of Bees by Sofia Segovia.
- Margery Sly, director of the Special Collections Research Center, recommends John Kerry’s autobiography, Every Day is Extra.
- Karen Kohn, collections analysis librarian, urges you to check out Such A Fun Age by Kiley Reid and Leaving Isn’t the Hardest Thing by Lauren Hough.