Book Smarts – Spring 2022

“Very Cold People: A Novel” (Hardcover)

By Sarah Manguso
Hogarth, 208 pages, $26

The masterly debut novel from “an exquisitely astute writer” (The Boston Globe), about growing up in—and out of—the suffocating constraints of small-town America.

“Home Reading Service” (Paperback)

By Fabio Morábito
Translated by Curtis Bauer
Other Press, 240 pages, $15.99

In this poignant novel, a man guilty of a minor offense finds purpose unexpectedly by way of his punishment—reading to others.

“Worn: A People’s History of Clothing” (Hardcover)

By Sofi Thanhauser
Pantheon, 400 pages, $30

A sweeping and captivatingly told history of clothing and the stuff it is made of—an unparalleled deep-dive into how everyday garments have transformed our lives, our societies, and our planet.

“The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again” (Hardcover)

The author of How to Break Up with Your Phone makes the case that, far from being frivolous, fun is actually critical to our well-being—and shows us how to have more of it.

“Cornbread and Poppy” (Paperback)

Caldecott medalist Matthew Cordell debuts his first early reader series about two endearing mice, best friends who are as different from each other as can be. Early Reader (Ages 4-8)

“Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids” (Paperback)

Edited by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Heartdrum, 320 pages, $7.99

This collection of intersecting stories by both new and veteran Native writers bursts with hope, joy, resilience, the strength of community, and Native pride. Middle Grade (Ages 8-12)