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General Recommendations

2020 Patron Picks

By:

SkokieStaff_Adult

Skokie Public Library

Staff-created list

The titles that you and your neighbors have enjoyed this year.

By:

SkokieStaff_Adult

Skokie Public Library

1-25 of 26 items

1-25 of 26 items

Caste

Caste

The Origins of Our Discontents

by Wilkerson, Isabel

Book - 2020

It got to a more foundational layer of some of our interconnected social challenges in a way that is helpful for addressing them systematically. We knew t...Show more It got to a more foundational layer of some of our interconnected social challenges in a way that is helpful for addressing them systematically. We knew these things, but this is a fresh framework for seeing them--one that recognizes blame but doesn't make that the main topic of discussion or allow it to paralyze action. Beautifully combines the historical, systemic, and personal aspects. Recommended by Caroline P. Show less

It got to a more foundational layer of some of our interconnected social challenges in a way that is helpful for addressing them systematically. We knew t...Show more It got to a more foundational layer of some of our interconnected social challenges in a way that is helpful for addressing them systematically. We knew these things, but this is a fresh framework for seeing them--one that recognizes blame but doesn't make that the main topic of discussion or allow it to paralyze action. Beautifully combines the historical, systemic, and personal aspects. Recommended by Caroline P. Show less

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Deacon King Kong

Deacon King Kong

A Novel

by McBride, James

Book - 2020

McBride captures the rhythms of a particular neighbor in the aftermath of a shooting. It was very satisfying discovering how the fates of all the characters are connected. Recommended by Delores N. McBride captures the rhythms of a particular neighbor in the aftermath of a shooting. It was very satisfying discovering how the fates of all the characters are connected. Recommended by Delores N. Show less

McBride captures the rhythms of a particular neighbor in the aftermath of a shooting. It was very satisfying discovering how the fates of all the characters are connected. Recommended by Delores N. McBride captures the rhythms of a particular neighbor in the aftermath of a shooting. It was very satisfying discovering how the fates of all the characters are connected. Recommended by Delores N. Show less

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Oona Out of Order

Oona Out of Order

by Montimore, Margarita

Book - 2020

It is light reading, an imaginary story. I enjoyed seeing what the author highlighted about each year and decade. It also had the reader relate to their o...Show more It is light reading, an imaginary story. I enjoyed seeing what the author highlighted about each year and decade. It also had the reader relate to their own lives at that time. I am 65. I think you would have had to live through these decades to appreciate Oona's time travel. Recommended by Sheryl G. Show less

It is light reading, an imaginary story. I enjoyed seeing what the author highlighted about each year and decade. It also had the reader relate to their o...Show more It is light reading, an imaginary story. I enjoyed seeing what the author highlighted about each year and decade. It also had the reader relate to their own lives at that time. I am 65. I think you would have had to live through these decades to appreciate Oona's time travel. Recommended by Sheryl G. Show less

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Station Eleven

Station Eleven

by Mandel, Emily St. John

Book - 2014

This was an exceptional selection for my "pandemic reading." It is a post-pandemic tale telling what happens if the virus is so contagious and a...Show more This was an exceptional selection for my "pandemic reading." It is a post-pandemic tale telling what happens if the virus is so contagious and acts so fast that society can't survive. The survivors have no electricity, running water, or gasoline. What happens to people who are forced to live under such conditions? I found it absolutely riveting. I am thankful that COVID-19 isn't as deadly. Recommended by Sharon F. Show less

This was an exceptional selection for my "pandemic reading." It is a post-pandemic tale telling what happens if the virus is so contagious and a...Show more This was an exceptional selection for my "pandemic reading." It is a post-pandemic tale telling what happens if the virus is so contagious and acts so fast that society can't survive. The survivors have no electricity, running water, or gasoline. What happens to people who are forced to live under such conditions? I found it absolutely riveting. I am thankful that COVID-19 isn't as deadly. Recommended by Sharon F. Show less

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Invisible Women

Invisible Women

Data Bias in A World Designed for Men

by Criado-Perez, Caroline

Book - 2019

To me, reading it had something of the flavor of the feminist books that came out in the 1970s: a feeling the author is telling you that what you experien...Show more To me, reading it had something of the flavor of the feminist books that came out in the 1970s: a feeling the author is telling you that what you experience and feel and know isn't crazy, but real and grounds for the loud complaints some of us have been making for many decades. Recommended by Caroline P. Show less

To me, reading it had something of the flavor of the feminist books that came out in the 1970s: a feeling the author is telling you that what you experien...Show more To me, reading it had something of the flavor of the feminist books that came out in the 1970s: a feeling the author is telling you that what you experience and feel and know isn't crazy, but real and grounds for the loud complaints some of us have been making for many decades. Recommended by Caroline P. Show less

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Game of Stars

Game of Stars

by DasGupta, Sayantani

Book - 2019

The book was very imaginative, had humor, and exposed me to a new culture. It also gave me story ideas of my own. Recommended by Reed L. The book was very imaginative, had humor, and exposed me to a new culture. It also gave me story ideas of my own. Recommended by Reed L. Show less

The book was very imaginative, had humor, and exposed me to a new culture. It also gave me story ideas of my own. Recommended by Reed L. The book was very imaginative, had humor, and exposed me to a new culture. It also gave me story ideas of my own. Recommended by Reed L. Show less

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Heavy

Heavy

An American Memoir

by Laymon, Kiese

Book - 2018

The author details not only his turbulent relationship with his mother but also all of the racism and prejudice he had to deal with growing up in Mississi...Show more The author details not only his turbulent relationship with his mother but also all of the racism and prejudice he had to deal with growing up in Mississippi and throughout his life. This is an amazing story and so relevant for our times. Recommended by Mary C. Show less

The author details not only his turbulent relationship with his mother but also all of the racism and prejudice he had to deal with growing up in Mississi...Show more The author details not only his turbulent relationship with his mother but also all of the racism and prejudice he had to deal with growing up in Mississippi and throughout his life. This is an amazing story and so relevant for our times. Recommended by Mary C. Show less

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The Child Finder

The Child Finder

A Novel

by Denfeld, Rene

Book - 2017

I love detective stories. This one is very different from my usual ones. The main character, Naomi, is so interesting. She searches for missing children, ...Show more I love detective stories. This one is very different from my usual ones. The main character, Naomi, is so interesting. She searches for missing children, and while being great at that, she is searching for her own sister. They were held captive but escaped when she was about 9 years old, but her much younger sister got lost. I'm reading Denfield's next book, "The Butterfly Girl," right now. It continues Naomi's adventures. Recommended by Earl S. Show less

I love detective stories. This one is very different from my usual ones. The main character, Naomi, is so interesting. She searches for missing children, ...Show more I love detective stories. This one is very different from my usual ones. The main character, Naomi, is so interesting. She searches for missing children, and while being great at that, she is searching for her own sister. They were held captive but escaped when she was about 9 years old, but her much younger sister got lost. I'm reading Denfield's next book, "The Butterfly Girl," right now. It continues Naomi's adventures. Recommended by Earl S. Show less

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Mister Invincible

Mister Invincible

by Jousselin, Pascal

Graphic Novel - 2020

This superhero is an everyman who buys groceries, does his housekeeping, visits his mother, and chats with his neighbors. His unique comic book power lets...Show more This superhero is an everyman who buys groceries, does his housekeeping, visits his mother, and chats with his neighbors. His unique comic book power lets him bend time and reality to solve problems and catch crooks. The characters and scenes are beautifully drawn. Recommended by Bill N. Show less

This superhero is an everyman who buys groceries, does his housekeeping, visits his mother, and chats with his neighbors. His unique comic book power lets...Show more This superhero is an everyman who buys groceries, does his housekeeping, visits his mother, and chats with his neighbors. His unique comic book power lets him bend time and reality to solve problems and catch crooks. The characters and scenes are beautifully drawn. Recommended by Bill N. Show less

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Apeirogon

Apeirogon

A Novel

by McCann, Colum

Book - 2020

Based closely on true events, "Apeirogon" tells the moving story of two fathers, one Israeli and one Palestinian; each has a young daughter who ...Show more Based closely on true events, "Apeirogon" tells the moving story of two fathers, one Israeli and one Palestinian; each has a young daughter who has been killed. The two men eventually find common ground, understanding, and friendship as they work together to end the violence that has deeply wounded both of their families and so many others. Recommended by Phyllis N. Show less

Based closely on true events, "Apeirogon" tells the moving story of two fathers, one Israeli and one Palestinian; each has a young daughter who ...Show more Based closely on true events, "Apeirogon" tells the moving story of two fathers, one Israeli and one Palestinian; each has a young daughter who has been killed. The two men eventually find common ground, understanding, and friendship as they work together to end the violence that has deeply wounded both of their families and so many others. Recommended by Phyllis N. Show less

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Evvie Drake Starts Over

Evvie Drake Starts Over

A Novel

by Holmes, Linda

Book - 2019

Loved this book so much! The dialogue is amazing! It's wonderful to see two people building a relationship through conversations. This book really has it all: characters, plot, romance--it's a great read! Recommended by Mary C. Loved this book so much! The dialogue is amazing! It's wonderful to see two people building a relationship through conversations. This book really has it all: characters, plot, romance--it's a great read! Recommended by Mary C. Show less

Loved this book so much! The dialogue is amazing! It's wonderful to see two people building a relationship through conversations. This book really has it all: characters, plot, romance--it's a great read! Recommended by Mary C. Loved this book so much! The dialogue is amazing! It's wonderful to see two people building a relationship through conversations. This book really has it all: characters, plot, romance--it's a great read! Recommended by Mary C. Show less

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Leadership in Turbulent Times

Leadership in Turbulent Times

by Goodwin, Doris Kearns

Book - 2018

Ms. Goodwin is a national treasure. Her books on LBJ, T.R., Lincoln and his cabinet, are time capsules and their truth and accuracy represent those times ...Show more Ms. Goodwin is a national treasure. Her books on LBJ, T.R., Lincoln and his cabinet, are time capsules and their truth and accuracy represent those times as well as the current times. Themes of character, duty, sacrifice, and honor mean something in Ms. Goodwin's worldview. Her clarity is sorely needed in these times of shifting "truths." Show less

Ms. Goodwin is a national treasure. Her books on LBJ, T.R., Lincoln and his cabinet, are time capsules and their truth and accuracy represent those times ...Show more Ms. Goodwin is a national treasure. Her books on LBJ, T.R., Lincoln and his cabinet, are time capsules and their truth and accuracy represent those times as well as the current times. Themes of character, duty, sacrifice, and honor mean something in Ms. Goodwin's worldview. Her clarity is sorely needed in these times of shifting "truths." Show less

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Imaginary Friend

Imaginary Friend

by Chbosky, Stephen

Book - 2019

This book was such a thriller. The 700+ pages seemed like they basically turned themselves! What an experience it was to read through your own worst fears...Show more This book was such a thriller. The 700+ pages seemed like they basically turned themselves! What an experience it was to read through your own worst fears and wanting more of it. This wondrously thought-provoking, eerie book leaves a haunting lasting impression and has become one of my favorites of all time. Recommended by Kris B. Show less

This book was such a thriller. The 700+ pages seemed like they basically turned themselves! What an experience it was to read through your own worst fears...Show more This book was such a thriller. The 700+ pages seemed like they basically turned themselves! What an experience it was to read through your own worst fears and wanting more of it. This wondrously thought-provoking, eerie book leaves a haunting lasting impression and has become one of my favorites of all time. Recommended by Kris B. Show less

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Near Dark

Near Dark

A Thriller

by Thor, Brad

Book - 2020

This is a military thriller with story lines that apply to the current world. It is part of a continuing series about the same character, but you do not need to have read the previous one to enjoy the current. Recommended by Steve R. This is a military thriller with story lines that apply to the current world. It is part of a continuing series about the same character, but you do not need to have read the previous one to enjoy the current. Recommended by Steve R. Show less

This is a military thriller with story lines that apply to the current world. It is part of a continuing series about the same character, but you do not need to have read the previous one to enjoy the current. Recommended by Steve R. This is a military thriller with story lines that apply to the current world. It is part of a continuing series about the same character, but you do not need to have read the previous one to enjoy the current. Recommended by Steve R. Show less

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Finn Family Moomintroll

Finn Family Moomintroll

by Jansson, Tove

Book - 2010

This is a really cute Finnish book about imaginary creatures called Moomintrolls and their lovable family. Recommended by Esther L. This is a really cute Finnish book about imaginary creatures called Moomintrolls and their lovable family. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

This is a really cute Finnish book about imaginary creatures called Moomintrolls and their lovable family. Recommended by Esther L. This is a really cute Finnish book about imaginary creatures called Moomintrolls and their lovable family. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

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Parting Shot

Parting Shot

by Barclay, Linwood

Book - 2017

Two well-paced plot lines intersect in a surprising climax. Well-constructed, believable characters and plot twists. An absorbing read, but very dark. I r...Show more Two well-paced plot lines intersect in a surprising climax. Well-constructed, believable characters and plot twists. An absorbing read, but very dark. I recommend for adults only. This book is a later title in the author's "Promise Falls" series, so I would also suggest those books be read in published sequence (to put some allusions in the plot in context) but this is not required to engage with the novel. Recommended by Bill N. Show less

Two well-paced plot lines intersect in a surprising climax. Well-constructed, believable characters and plot twists. An absorbing read, but very dark. I r...Show more Two well-paced plot lines intersect in a surprising climax. Well-constructed, believable characters and plot twists. An absorbing read, but very dark. I recommend for adults only. This book is a later title in the author's "Promise Falls" series, so I would also suggest those books be read in published sequence (to put some allusions in the plot in context) but this is not required to engage with the novel. Recommended by Bill N. Show less

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My Dark Vanessa

My Dark Vanessa

A Novel

by Russell, Kate Elizabeth

Book - 2020

This is the most intense book I read this year. I also read "Putney" much earlier in the year, which deals with the same subject matter: pedophi...Show more This is the most intense book I read this year. I also read "Putney" much earlier in the year, which deals with the same subject matter: pedophilia and the relationship between victim and abuser. Both were an eye-opener regarding how much the young teenage female victims were unwilling to admit that the relationship had been abusive. Recommended by Christine H. Show less

This is the most intense book I read this year. I also read "Putney" much earlier in the year, which deals with the same subject matter: pedophi...Show more This is the most intense book I read this year. I also read "Putney" much earlier in the year, which deals with the same subject matter: pedophilia and the relationship between victim and abuser. Both were an eye-opener regarding how much the young teenage female victims were unwilling to admit that the relationship had been abusive. Recommended by Christine H. Show less

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The Americans

The Americans

The Complete First Season

DVD -

Imagine, if you will, a suburban couple raising two children in the 1980s. Now imagine that they are Russian spies who also run a travel agency. They have...Show more Imagine, if you will, a suburban couple raising two children in the 1980s. Now imagine that they are Russian spies who also run a travel agency. They have to do many difficult things in service to their mother country: planting bugs, getting secret government information, and sometimes they do kill people. Did I mention that their next door neighbor is an FBI agent? It's very entertaining and engaging. Starring Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys. Recommended by Barbara C. Show less

Imagine, if you will, a suburban couple raising two children in the 1980s. Now imagine that they are Russian spies who also run a travel agency. They have...Show more Imagine, if you will, a suburban couple raising two children in the 1980s. Now imagine that they are Russian spies who also run a travel agency. They have to do many difficult things in service to their mother country: planting bugs, getting secret government information, and sometimes they do kill people. Did I mention that their next door neighbor is an FBI agent? It's very entertaining and engaging. Starring Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys. Recommended by Barbara C. Show less

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Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey

DVD - 2011

Rewatching this series has been comforting because the Crawley clan endured a world war, a pandemic, and numerous other challenges, but stayed fabulous. A...Show more Rewatching this series has been comforting because the Crawley clan endured a world war, a pandemic, and numerous other challenges, but stayed fabulous. Also, all their hours spent dressing and undressing and lounging around the house are suddenly more relatable during the stay-at-home times (though infinitely more glamorous than me changing from leggings to pajamas and back again!). Recommended by Jane H. Show less

Rewatching this series has been comforting because the Crawley clan endured a world war, a pandemic, and numerous other challenges, but stayed fabulous. A...Show more Rewatching this series has been comforting because the Crawley clan endured a world war, a pandemic, and numerous other challenges, but stayed fabulous. Also, all their hours spent dressing and undressing and lounging around the house are suddenly more relatable during the stay-at-home times (though infinitely more glamorous than me changing from leggings to pajamas and back again!). Recommended by Jane H. Show less

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An Inspector Calls

Streaming Video - 1954

It was a thought-provoking film, making you think about how your actions can affect others. It was also a type of mystery. Great dialogue and acting. Recommended by Esther L. It was a thought-provoking film, making you think about how your actions can affect others. It was also a type of mystery. Great dialogue and acting. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

It was a thought-provoking film, making you think about how your actions can affect others. It was also a type of mystery. Great dialogue and acting. Recommended by Esther L. It was a thought-provoking film, making you think about how your actions can affect others. It was also a type of mystery. Great dialogue and acting. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

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The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War

DVD - 2017

Very informative and insightful. Made by a great documentarian who not only speaks history but is also a strong and emotional storyteller. Recommended by Maria H. Very informative and insightful. Made by a great documentarian who not only speaks history but is also a strong and emotional storyteller. Recommended by Maria H. Show less

Very informative and insightful. Made by a great documentarian who not only speaks history but is also a strong and emotional storyteller. Recommended by Maria H. Very informative and insightful. Made by a great documentarian who not only speaks history but is also a strong and emotional storyteller. Recommended by Maria H. Show less

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How About Adolf?

How About Adolf?

Streaming Video - 2019

This is a funny German comedy about family secrets and quarrels. Recommended by Esther L. This is a funny German comedy about family secrets and quarrels. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

This is a funny German comedy about family secrets and quarrels. Recommended by Esther L. This is a funny German comedy about family secrets and quarrels. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

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1917

1917

DVD - 2020

It's a war movie, but not as violent as other war movies. It helps you gain perspective on what trench warfare in Europe was like during WWI. Recommended by Esther L. It's a war movie, but not as violent as other war movies. It helps you gain perspective on what trench warfare in Europe was like during WWI. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

It's a war movie, but not as violent as other war movies. It helps you gain perspective on what trench warfare in Europe was like during WWI. Recommended by Esther L. It's a war movie, but not as violent as other war movies. It helps you gain perspective on what trench warfare in Europe was like during WWI. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

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Emma

Emma

DVD - 2020

I enjoyed this take on "Emma." It was a little quicker than other adaptations, but also funnier at times. The chemistry between the two leads was enjoyable. Recommended by Esther L. I enjoyed this take on "Emma." It was a little quicker than other adaptations, but also funnier at times. The chemistry between the two leads was enjoyable. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

I enjoyed this take on "Emma." It was a little quicker than other adaptations, but also funnier at times. The chemistry between the two leads was enjoyable. Recommended by Esther L. I enjoyed this take on "Emma." It was a little quicker than other adaptations, but also funnier at times. The chemistry between the two leads was enjoyable. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

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Lucy Worsley's Royal Palace Secrets

Lucy Worsley's Royal Palace Secrets

DVD - 2020

Lucy Worsley gives us tours of the Tower of London, Hampton Court, and Kensington Palace. She's a fun host who tells good stories. Recommended by Esther L. Lucy Worsley gives us tours of the Tower of London, Hampton Court, and Kensington Palace. She's a fun host who tells good stories. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

Lucy Worsley gives us tours of the Tower of London, Hampton Court, and Kensington Palace. She's a fun host who tells good stories. Recommended by Esther L. Lucy Worsley gives us tours of the Tower of London, Hampton Court, and Kensington Palace. She's a fun host who tells good stories. Recommended by Esther L. Show less

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