November Staff Picks At CDPL

As the weather turns cold, the staff at the Crawfordsville District Public Library has several book recommendations that you can grab a blanket and curl up with.

If you love getting cozy with a good mystery, Theresa recommends “A Great Deliverance” by Elizabeth George (FIC Geo), who weaves criminal procedure, psychology, Shakespearean quotes, and rich relationships in this series’ debut. She also suggests “Dead Cert” by Dick Francis (FIC Fra), which is set in the 1960s horse racing world and offers a likable main character who doesn’t believe that the death of a fellow jockey was an accident. Brenda’s mystery recommendation is “Nightwork” by bestselling author Nora Roberts (FIC Rob) — greed, desire, obsession, revenge…it’s all in a night’s work. If you like Sherlock Holmes mysteries, but would like more action, Michelle says that the Barker & Llewelyn series by Will Thomas (FIC Tho) needs to be on your reading list. Love a good gothic thriller? I recommend Ruth Ware’s “The Turn of the Screw” (FIC War), a modern take on Henry James’ classic horror novella.

If you want to get lost in a rich historical setting, Lisa enjoyed a glimpse back to 1700s London with “The Lost Orphan” by Stacey Hall (FIC Hal), while Dellie got caught up in the Australian landscape of post-World War I in “The Woman in the Green Dress” by Tea Cooper (FIC Coo).

If you are seeking a heartwarming story (with animals!) Mary has some perfect recommendations. “West with Giraffes” by Lynda Rutledge (FIC Rut) is based on the incredible true story of two giraffes who made headlines and won the hearts of depression-era Americans, and “Even the Dog Knows” by Jason Wright (FIC Wri) takes the reader on an emotional journey when a family’s old beloved dog takes a final road trip to help his humans find forgiveness and healing.

And when it’s time to throw off the cozy blanket and start preparing for the holiday season, we’ve got you covered there, too! For some great holiday recipes, check out Michelle’s recommendation, “Pioneer Woman Cooks: The New Frontier” (641.5979 Dru), which lets you step up your game the easy way. Michelle’s advice? Make the Tater Breakfast Casserole on page 42 the night before, and pop it in the oven while you get dressed. For dinner, try the Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes. Save time and energy during the holiday. What about creative holiday decor and crafts? Montica recommends “Martha Stewart’s Handmade Holiday Crafts” (745.5941 Mar) because this book has ideas for every holiday. Want to make something fun and cozy to wear for the winter? Check out Michelle’s pick, “Knitting Magic: More Patterns from Hogwarts & Beyond” (746.432 Gra). Make a present for a cherished loved one. Currently on her needles is the Hogwarts Castle Cowl on page 55 in Gryffindor colors.

All these staff picks and more are on display through November on the first floor of the library and ready to check out with your library card. The library is open Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.  – 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 – 5 p.m.

Megan Taylor is Assistant Manager in the Reference and Local History Department at CDPL.