Book Buzz with Sno-Isle Libraries

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Tune in for the weekly buzz on what we're reading! Let Sno-Isle Libraries staff introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured our hearts and minds. Book Buzz gives you the inside scoop on what's worth reading. Sno-Isle Libraries serves more than 800,000 residents in Washington's Snohomish and Island counties through 23 community libraries, online services, and Library on Wheels. Visit our website at http://www.sno-isle.org.

  1. 3d ago

    Ep. 176 "Night of the Ghoul" by Scott Snyder; "How to Sell a Haunted House" by Grady Hendrix

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.  First, we're going to hear from Jen, library associate at the Arlington Library, for a journey of uncovering a lost horror film's chilling secrets. Take it away, Jen.   JEN:   Thanks, Jessica. Scott Snyder and Francesco Francavilla's graphic novel, "Night of the Ghoul" is a creeping terror. A father and son embark on a mission to confront the director of a lost, incomplete horror film called "Night of the Ghoul."    Forest, the father, is emphatic that it is likely the greatest horror movie ever created. The fragments of the film reel he discovered have him convinced, and he needs to know what happened, however the elusive director, T.F. Merrit has been difficult to track down. Tonight, Forest and his son, Orson, think they have finally located Merrit at a remote institution. The patient is an elderly, physically deformed man who at first denies the association, however events begin to unfold that reveal not only Meritt and the truth behind "Night of the Ghoul," but an ancient monster, the embodiment of disease that feeds on humanity.   This Dark Horse publication is an homage to the horror genre. Francavilla's signature pulpy art style is a saturated, sumptuous throwback to EC horror Comics, with references to "Nosferatu," "The Thing," and many other horror cinema greats. Like any good entry to the genre, it has a multitude of themes, from the paranormal to the human experience. Snyder's storytelling method splicing snippets of the film with reality reveal an elaborate, rich world of darkness and intrigue. For fans of horror, graphic novels, or both, it is not to be missed this spooky season!   JESSICA:   Thanks, Jen! This book sounds terrifying and intriguing. I can't wait to dive into their twisted world.   Next, let's hear about a house full of family memories and more, from Abby, librarian at the Arlington Library. Go ahead, Abby.   ABBY:   Are you a fan of cheesy horror movie tropes remixed in terrifyingly clever ways? Do you love campy tales of haunted houses, creepy dolls, and zombie squirrels? If so, "How to Sell a Haunted House" by Grady Hendrix should absolutely be on your to-read pile.    The story begins with a family tragedy as the first of our two sibling narrators, Louise, gets a call from her semi-estranged brother Mark, informing her that her parents have died suddenly in a car accident. Devastated, Louise leaves her young daughter with her ex-husband to fly to her childhood home and help her brother clean out her parents' house. Figuring out what to do with her professional puppeteer mother's extensive collection of bespoke dolls and puppets could be a challenge for anyone, but as Louise begins to dive into the work of cleaning out the house, unsettling activities make her worry that her sense of reality is cracking under the pressure of confronting their family's inherited trauma and loss. Can she keep it together and finish this horrible task? Can she make peace with her brother before it's too late for them both?   Grady Hendrix has a uniquely dark sense of humor that casts a comedic glow over the whole tale, but it does not relieve the real moments of creatively creepy horror that he conjures up with his visceral word choices. For all those adults who grew up devouring "Goosebumps" books, pick up a copy of Grady Hendrix's "How to Sell a Haunted House" today.   JESSICA:   Thanks, Abby! You had me at "creepy dolls and zombie squirrels." I've read this one, too, and it's a winner.  Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 176 "Night of the Ghoul" by Scott Snyder; "How to Sell a Haunted House" by Grady Hendrix

  2. Oct 12

    Ep. 175 "Lady Tremaine" by Rachel Hochhauser; "That Which Feeds Us" by Keala Kendall

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations are "Lady Tremaine" by Rachel Hochhauser and "That Which Feeds Us" by Keala Kendall.  First, we're going to hear from Emma, library associate at the Lakewood/Smokey Point Library, for a story that looks behind the fairytale facade. Over to you, Emma.   EMMA:   "Lady Tremaine" by Rachel Hochhauser is a captivating retelling of "Cinderella" that transforms the familiar wicked stepmother character into a complex and sympathetic heroine. The novel follows Lady Etheldreda Tremaine Bramley, a twice-widowed noblewoman who is struggling to maintain her family's estate but is determined to provide a secure future for her daughters and stepdaughter. Faced with financial hardship and limited opportunities in a patriarchal society, Ethel makes difficult choices out of love and responsibility, rather than simple cruelty.  When a royal ball presents a chance to change her family's fortunes, events take an unexpected turn and Ethel is drawn into the dangerous secrets and machinations of the royal court. As she navigates ambition, sacrifice, and family conflict, she must decide what truly matters most.  I thoroughly enjoyed this novel for its fresh perspective, richly developed characters, and emotional depth. Ethel's strength, resilience, and fierce devotion pulled a formerly two-dimensional character into sharp 4K detail and forced me to re-examine the motivation behind her presumably cruel actions. By blending fairy tale magic with themes of motherhood, survival, and female empowerment, "Lady Tremaine" becomes both an engaging fantasy and a moving celebration of women who refuse to be defined by others' stories.  JESSICA:   Thanks, Emma! I never thought I'd find myself siding with the wicked stepmother, but now I'm having second thoughts.   Next, let's hear about a chilling tale set in a tropical paradise, from Lehua, librarian for Library on Wheels. Go ahead, Lehua.   LEHUA:   "That Which Feeds Us" by Keala Kendall is a young adult gothic thriller that takes place on a fictional island set in the Hawaiian Islands. This story follows Lehua as she investigates the disappearance of her missing twin sister from their birthplace and experiences the dark side of tourism.  Lehua learns that her sister has accepted a job at a remote island resort that has more secrets than guests. When the boat strands Lehua on the island, she must stay at the luxurious hotel navigating strange and sinister guests, intense nightmares, fleeting figures, sickly sweet smells, and a controlling resort staff.  As Lehua begins to fall for another Hawaiian girl working at the resort, she learns about her people's experiences and the resort's rules. However, when reality starts to crumble, Lehua must trust her instincts and connection to the land to discern where danger and truth really lie.  I enjoyed the elements of body-horror, sensory details, and isolation that created the spooky atmosphere. I also related to Lehua and her feelings of confusion and discomfort around being diaspora. "That Which Feeds Us" explores the harm of ongoing colonialism and what reconnection can feel like for those separated from their homes and loved ones.  JESSICA:   Thanks, Lehua! Having an author of Native Hawaiian descent write this story clearly brings an authenticity to its cultural nuances. And I love that you and the main character share the same first name!  Our recommendations this week are: "Lady Tremaine" by Rachel Hochhauser and "That Which Feeds Us" by Keala Kendall.  Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 175 "Lady Tremaine" by Rachel Hochhauser; "That Which Feeds Us" by Keala Kendall

  3. Oct 5

    Ep. 174 "Silver Nitrate" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia; "The Bookshop" by Evan Friss

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.  First, we're going to hear from Lois, librarian at the Snohomish Library, for a tale of a sinister curse. Over to you, Lois.   LOIS:   "Silver Nitrate" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia combines magic, mystery, and horror in an intricately plotted story about breaking curses and the power of film.   Set in 1993 in Mexico City, this story follows Montserrat, a talented sound editor, and her childhood friend, Tristán, a soap opera star. Both are obsessed with horror films, Tristán arranges a meeting with his new neighbor, a cult director whose legendary career was destroyed by his last unfinished film. The film was written by a Nazi occultist and was an attempt to cast a good luck spell.   The director believes that this unfinished film is causing him bad luck and he convinces Montserrat and Tristán to help him finish by adding sound to the last scene. But after the sound is added, Montserrat and Tristán start to realize they've awoken something dangerous. They must work together to undo the spell or be killed by the supernatural forces and evil cultists bent on their destruction.   Author Moreno-Garcia tells a story that explores misogyny and racism through the lens of real film history and occultism. This suspenseful novel started as a slow burn for me but intensified over time. I particularly loved the well-rounded characters, including the relationship between the two main characters.   Creepy and compelling, "Silver Nitrate" is a unique thriller for film buffs and horror lovers alike.   JESSICA:   Thanks, Lois! Try Moreno-Garcia's book "Mexican Gothic" for more fantastic, evocative horror — I couldn't put it down.    Next, let's hear about a book on how bookstores shape our culture, from Robyn, library associate at the Stanwood Library. Take it away, Robyn.   ROBYN:   My favorite bookshop is a quaint, dimly lit haven filled with the rich aroma of aged paper, over-stuffed leather chairs, and creaky wood floors. The shelves are lined with meticulously organized books, creating a cozy labyrinth where I can lose myself for hours. Reading "The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore" is delightfully like being there. This book creates odd little nooks, detours and curios where I enjoyed lingering in unexpected subjects.      Evan Friss's history of the bookshop draws on oral histories, archival collections, municipal records, diaries, letters, and interviews with leading booksellers to offer a fascinating look at this institution beloved by many. The story begins with Benjamin Franklin's first bookstore in Philadelphia and takes us to a range of booksellers including the Strand, Chicago's Marshall Field & Company, the Gotham Book Mart, specialty stores like Oscar Wilde and Drum and Spear, sidewalk sellers of used books, Barnes & Noble, Amazon Books, and Parnassus. "The Bookshop" is also a history of the leading figures in American bookselling, and a history of how books have been marketed and sold over the course of more than two centuries.    Friss's book is a love letter to bookstores, a charming chronicle to enjoy for anyone who cherishes these sanctuaries of literature, and an essential reading to understand how these vital institutions have shaped American life — and why we still need them.     JESSICA:   Thanks, Robyn! Friss really captures not just the history of bookstores, but also the soul.   Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 174 "Silver Nitrate" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia; "The Bookshop" by Evan Friss

  4. Sep 28

    Ep. 173 "Evening the Score" by Lexi Lafleur Brown; "The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations are "Evening the Score" by Lexi Lafleur Brown and "The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans.  First, we're going to hear from Madeline, librarian at the Marysville Library, for a story of revenge, romance, and an old hockey grudge. Over to you, Madeline.   MADELINE:  Like millions of people, I'm someone who didn't know or care too much about hockey romance until I was hit by the "Heated Rivalry" bus last winter. But after devouring the entire show, I found the TikTok of Seattle author Lexi Lafleur Brown. This current hockey player and former NHL WAG shares insider information and gossip about the sport. And now, she's writing romcom novels about it. Her second book, "Evening the Score," came out this summer and reading it is an absolute blast.  Olivia's father's NHL career was ended years ago by a dirty hit from his rival Erik Parker. Now his son, Brody, is the golden boy of the NHL. Olivia sees a perfect opportunity to avenge her family: she takes an undercover job as the team's blue Lynx mascot and hatches a plot to ruin Brody's game by breaking his heart. But oh no, it's hard to sabotage a game when your enemy isn't who you thought and now you're falling in love for real!  This plot is pretty off-the-wall, but that's exactly what makes it work. It's a story about grief and the violence of pro sports, but Lefleur Brown also makes it a really good love story that had me cracking up alone in the break room. I loved the goofy side characters and the celebration of Indigenous heritage in hockey, from the perspective of an author who truly loves their sport.  JESSICA:   Thanks, Madeline! As a huge fan of "Heated Rivalry," I'm all in for any story with an undercover hocky mascot!   Next, let's hear about a grumpy grandmother's life of love and loss, from Jennifer, Library Associate at the Camano Island Library. Go ahead, Jennifer.   JENNIFER:   Virginia Evans's novel "The Correspondent" is a moving story about sadness, growing old, and the power of human connection. The entire book is written through letters and emails which makes it a fun read. We follow Sybil, an independent, 70-year-old grandmother and former lawyer. As she grows older and deals with fading eyesight, secrets from her past start coming back into her life.  The story balances heavy feelings with funny moments throughout the book. It highlights the painful and devastating heartbreak of loss and how tragedy changes a person forever. However, Sybil is also wonderfully grumpy, and her angry letters to customer service and famous authors, like Anne Patchet, add great humor to the story. AND the book has unexpected romance when two very different men show interest in her, which surprises and softens her tough exterior. Finally, Sybil writes a secret, unsent letter that reveals decades of regrets and hidden truths.  This book feels very real. Like you've stumbled upon someone's open email account and you just can't help but read the letters. It shows that it's never too late to fix old mistakes or change your viewpoint or change your life. Ultimately, it makes you think about your own relationships and the things you have left unsaid to the people you love.  JESSICA:   Thanks, Jennifer! This book sounds like a lovely reminder that it's never too late to mend a relationship or change your mind or fall in love.   Our recommendations this week are: "Evening the Score" by Lexi Lafleur Brown and "The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans.   Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 173 "Evening the Score" by Lexi Lafleur Brown; "The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans

  5. Sep 21

    Ep. 172 "Back to the Garden" by Laurie R. King; "The Lincoln Highway" by Amor Towles

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.  First, we're going to hear from collection services librarian Lorraine, for a thrilling story of buried secrets. Take it away, Lorraine.   LORRAINE:   "Back to the Garden" by Laurie R. King is for people who like suspenseful mysteries with women detectives, cold criminal cases, missing people, and maybe even a serial killer who was never located.   Inspector Raquel Laing, who works with the San Francisco PD Cold Case Unit, is called to examine the remains of a long-buried body which was found on the Gardener Estate, a grand mansion with sweeping grounds long owned by an influential California family. Laing believes that the victim may be one of the young women murdered in the Bay Area in the 1970s by a serial killer known as the Highwayman.   The estate, long the home of a wealthy, upper class robber baron of the American West evolved into a 1970s counterculture commune by his descendants. As Laing digs into the estate's archives looking for evidence of the Highwayman's presence, what she finds there begins to take on a dark reality of its own. Laing, dubbed "the Sherlock Holmes of San Francisco" by her colleagues "for her uncanny ability to put together unrelated facts" leads the reader through unexpected twists to a surprising resolution.   This title is a standalone departure from King's New York Times best-selling "Mary Russell and Sherlock Holms" series. I recommend anything written by Laurie R. King, and this intricately plotted mystery is excellent.   JESSICA:  Thanks, Lorraine! I'm definitely on board for a female Sherlock Holmes-type detective.   Next, let's hear about an unexpected road trip across America from Kathy, librarian at the Snohomish Library. Take it away, Kathy.  KATHY:   Do you like to watch movies from the 1950s? Do you like road trip stories? This book, "The Lincoln Highway" by Amor Towles is for you.    The story starts off in June 1954, when eighteen-year-old Emmett Watson is driven home to Nebraska by the warden of the work farm where he has just served a year for involuntary manslaughter. But with strong echoes of the ancient Greek story "The Iliad," where Ulysses comes within sight of home only to be blown off course, each colorful character in this story seems to move further away from their goal the more they strive for it.    Emmett may aim to head west from Nebraska to California to find their long-missing mother, but instead he and his preternaturally intelligent yet innocently sweet young brother Billy — along with two other abandoned teens — end up in New York City. Along this madcap journey, each vibrant, quirky character is trying for a fresh start, and although each is deeply flawed, each is well-meaning (even the seemingly bad guy). With a hint of tragedy looming from the opening pages and a sense of the inevitable, you know fate will play its part. Told from multiple points of view, this richly layered story will stay with you long after you finish the last page.   JESSICA:   Thanks, Kathy! This sounds like a fantastic story of brothers, friendship, and the spirit of adventure.  Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 172 "Back to the Garden" by Laurie R. King; "The Lincoln Highway" by Amor Towles

  6. Sep 14

    Ep. 171 "Someone Else's Shoes" by JoJo Moyes; "Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch" by Rivka Galchen

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.  First, we're going to hear from Robyn, library associate at the Stanwood Library, for a witty story of friendship and self-discovery. Go ahead, Robyn   ROBYN:   "Someone Else's Shoes" by JoJo Moyes is a compelling tale that weaves humor, heartache, and the transformative power of stepping into another's life.     I enjoyed this novel because it follows the lives of two women, Nisha Cantor and Sam Kemp, whose fates intertwine when they accidentally swap gym bags. Nisha, once living the high life, finds herself abruptly cut off and scrambling to maintain her status, while Sam, burdened by the struggles of everyday life, discovers a newfound confidence with a pair of high heels that were never meant for her. Their journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the strength found in human female friendship.    Moyes' narrative is a celebration of second chances and the courage to embrace change. With a Goodreads Choice Award nomination for Best Fiction in 2023, this novel promises to be a rewarding read that will leave you both laughing and reflecting on the power of empathy and connection.    Dive into "Someone Else's Shoes" and walk away with a renewed sense of hope and the undeniable truth that sometimes, the best way to understand ourselves and others is by walking a mile in someone else's shoes. A story full of Moyes' signature wit and warmth, this book is not just a journey — it's an experience not to be missed.   JESSICA:   Thanks, Robyn! This book is a wonderful depiction of friendship and women supporting each other.  Next, let's hear from Bridget, collection development librarian, who will take us back to the 1600s Germany. Go ahead, Bridget.   BRIDGET:   "Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch" by Rivka Galchen is set in the small town of Leonberg in 1615, where Katharina Kepler is accused of being a witch. An illiterate widow, she's known by her neighbors for her herbal remedies and the success of her children, including her eldest, Johannes, who is the Imperial Mathematician.   Combined with Katharina's infamously blunt and nosy nature, this leads to a community member hopping on the then-popular trend of accusing someone you didn't like of witchcraft. Deadly consequences for small slights. And, well, once one aggrieved community member speaks out, others will follow.    The novel goes back and forth between Katharina's testimony as recorded by her neighbor Simon, his perspective on the events, and the court records of Katharina's case. The depositions in particular are in turn frustrating and funny, as modern medical knowledge can grant insight to some complaints attributed to deals with the devil and wives' descriptions of events often contradict their whining husbands'.   "Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch" is based on the real-life astronomer Johannes Kepler's mother's battle with the courts on an accusation of witchcraft, using the real letters and records from the case as inspiration for a look into a chilling period in history for women and anyone living outside of what society deemed acceptable.   Galchen's feisty and blunt Katharina is a joy to read, she reminds me of all the no-nonsense women I've met in my life and her disdain of many of her neighbors is particularly delightful. If you like your historical fiction zippy or your protagonists a bit rude, this book is for you.   JESSICA:   Thanks, Bridget! Sounds like a brilliant mix of history, humor, and hysteria.   Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 171 "Someone Else's Shoes" by JoJo Moyes; "Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch" by Rivka Galchen

  7. Sep 7

    Ep. 170 "What You Are Looking For Is in the Library" by Michiko Aoyama; "Under a Rock" by Chris Stein

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.  First, we're going to hear from Hattie, library associate for Library on Wheels, for a book about books. Over to you, Hattie.    HATTIE:  What are you looking for at the library? Okay, but what are you really looking for?  Michiko Aoyama's "What You Are Looking For Is in the Library" is the dream for anyone who hopes to find that perfect book — the one you can't put down, that makes the whole world look new.   In a series of overlapping short stories, characters wander into their community library, where Sayuri Komachi, Tokyo's most enigmatic librarian, is able to sense exactly what each visitor needs. A restless retail assistant looks to gain new skills, a mother tries to overcome demotion at work after maternity leave, an anxious shut-in hopes to build connections, a conscientious accountant yearns to open an antique store, and a recently retired salaryman searches for newfound purpose — all emerge with the books they were looking for — and something extra. That special book that gives them the push to take the first step, follow their dreams, and discover a new way forward.   These gentle slice-of-life stories about finding community and purpose, are perfect for fans of "Before the Coffee Gets Cold," "A Psalm for the Wild-Built," and "The Reading List," or anyone who has ever found themself at an impasse in their life and in need of a little inspiration.     JESSICA:  Thanks, Hattie! Of course, library staff love books about libraries, but you don't have to work in a library to enjoy this one.  Next, let's hear from Anne, programming service coordinator at Sno-Isle Libraries, for a memoir from an iconic '80s band member. Go ahead, Anne.    ANNE:  Think life in a famous band is glamorous? Think again. Chris Stein, guitarist and co-founder of the 1980s sensation Blondie tells his story of life as a musician in "Under a Rock: A Memoir."  Debbie Harry defined iconic band Blondie's look. Chris Stein — her performing partner, lover, and lifelong friend — was its architect and defined its sound. Chris shares the riveting story of growing up in New York City and his natural slide into the unconventional lifestyle of a rock star.   "Under a Rock" has it all — grueling tours, tensions with bandmates, predatory managers and record companies, and mingling with stars like Andy Warhol and David Bowie. From the lows of trying to make ends meet to the highs of success, Stein captures his unique experience with honesty and heart.  I found it hard to put down "Under a Rock" and enjoyed the endless stream style of the book. Stein's recounting of his life from childhood though the heyday of punk in New York to the present is a must-read for fans of Blondie, or anyone who enjoys a good memoir. "Under a Rock" reminds us that behind the public facades of stardom are very real humans who work hard and struggle to find happiness just like everyone else, but in a world that's constantly watching.    JESSICA:  Thanks, Anne! Stein's unique perspective gives us a captivating behind-the-scenes look at rock stardom.  Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.    Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 170 "What You Are Looking For Is in the Library" by Michiko Aoyama; "Under a Rock" by Chris Stein

  8. Aug 31

    Ep. 169 "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry; "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann

    Transcript: JESSICA:   Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.   Today's two reading recommendations are "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry and "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann.  First, we're going to hear from Emily, library associate at the Marysville Library, for a world where every spell has consequences. Go ahead, Emily.   EMILY:   "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry is a witty fantasy novella with surprising emotional depth that balances action and graceful prose.  In a world where magic is king, the barbarian Gotchimus has a serious score to settle with some serious wizards. He's willing to do whatever it takes to take them out, even attending the theater. But he's no reckless himbo gate-crashing cocktail hour — this hulking warrior is as sharp as his sword. Utilizing shrewd observation, ingenuity, and rage, he tackles a sightless sorcerer with countless eyes; an actual god, and far more dangerous actors pulling strings from the shadows. He also makes some friends along the way in Hecksley, a gentleman thief with a clockwork arm and Dora, an acerbic swordswoman who's more than she appears.  Between its outsider antihero and critiques of classism, this story has big sword and sorcery energy. The scenes of Gotchimus and Hecksley trading tales over drinks also feel like a definite nod to Fritz Leiber's characters, Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser. Berry has built up the beginnings of a fascinating world that I'm excited to explore in the rest of this planned series. Really, I'd say this book is for anyone seeking revenge or a fresh take on a classic genre from a wildly imaginative author.  JESSICA:   Thanks, Emily! It's always exciting to find a fantasy that brings something new to the genre.   Next, let's hear from Lois, librarian at the Snohomish Library for a story about living in the age of AI. Over to you, Lois.   LOIS:   Tackling themes of neurodiversity and artificial intelligence, "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann is a poignant sci-fi epic about the power of love and storytelling.   Kelli has always loved telling stories. In adulthood, she works as a script supervisor for a generative-AI company that regulates all media. The job is well suited to her neurodivergence as she fine tunes AI prompts to create a popular television show. For Kelli, it's easiest to follow all given instructions.   Everything is going well until she gets a message from her ex, Rowan, who's in debt from an illegal gender-affirming surgery. After she agrees to help, Kelli realizes too late that Rowan has recruited her for a dangerous heist, upsetting her orderly little world.   The story is told in alternating timelines: Kelli in present day and flashbacks to her relationship with Rowan as children. Both narratives weave together forbidden love set in a dystopian society where corporations control everything.     The relationship between Kelli and Rowan carried this book for me. As their stories build toward crisis, the tenderness of reuniting with a former love held my interest, especially in a setting where queer desire is prohibited. Ultimately, Kelli must grapple with her versions of right and wrong, and the culmination is an intricate exploration of censorship and how we relate to each other.  JESSICA:   Thanks, Lois! This is a wonderful blend of a deeply personal love story with some really big ideas.  Our recommendations this week are: "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry and "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann.  Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.   Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

    Ep. 169 "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry; "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann
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Tune in for the weekly buzz on what we're reading! Let Sno-Isle Libraries staff introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured our hearts and minds. Book Buzz gives you the inside scoop on what's worth reading. Sno-Isle Libraries serves more than 800,000 residents in Washington's Snohomish and Island counties through 23 community libraries, online services, and Library on Wheels. Visit our website at http://www.sno-isle.org.

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