Book reviews by librarians at the Sam Gary Branch, Denver Public Library
ADULT FICTION
You Will Know Me
by Megan Abbott
Devon Knox is a gymnastics prodigy and Olympics hopeful, and her parents have dedicated their lives to help Devin fulfill her dreams. A violent death in the gymnastics community rocks everybody off course right before an important competition. As rumors swirl, Devon’s mother, Katie, tries desperately to hold her family together while discovering secrets connected to the crime. This is an incredibly tense and suspenseful read, and takes you behind the scenes in the pressure-filled world of gymnastics.
ADULT NON- FICTION
As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride
by Cary Elwes
The title says it all. For any fan of the movie The Princess Bride, this is a must-read. “Wesley” himself takes us behind the scenes for an intimate look at the making of the movie, peppered with delightful anecdotes and hysterical Andre the Giant stories. Members of the cast take turns reminiscing about what it was like on the set. For extra enjoyment, listen to the audiobook for a star-filled full cast reading the book. If you love the movie, you will love this book.
YOUNG ADULT FICTION
Salt to the Sea
by Ruta Sepetys
It’s 1945 and Germany is losing the war. Four strangers, each carrying secrets that are slowly revealed, eventually meet up in Prussia while fleeing the approaching Russian army and its vengeful atrocities. Each of the strangers will end up on a German escape vessel with devastating consequences. Told in short alternating chapters between the four characters, this is an un-put-downable read about a part of WWII that is little known, including the worst maritime accident in history.
CHILDREN’S
The Girl Who Drank the Moon
by Kelly Barnhill
The people of the Protectorate live in constant fear of the Witch. She comes from the woods once a year, demanding the sacrifice of a baby. Or so the story goes. This is the tale of Luna, offered for sacrifice but rescued by a good witch. In Luna’s magical world, there is a tiny dragon who thinks he is enormous, a loving swamp monster, a mother searching for her lost child, a boy who wants to right the wrongs of his homeland, and an evil witch who threatens everything they hold dear. Engrossing, whimsical and heartbreaking, this is a must-read.
