From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
Sister Snake: A Novel by Amanda Lee Koe (Ecco, $28, 9780063355064). "A unique book about two ancient sisters who are both human and snake. Su lives her life as humanly as possible; Emerald is very much herself. Though this novel was pitched as dark humor, it explored themes of identity, queerness, and family poignantly." --Sara Landon, Paragraphs Bookstore, Mount Vernon, Ohio
Shy Creatures: A Novel by Clare Chambers (Mariner, $30, 9780063258228). "An inventive and satisfying novel. Not just a story you'll look forward to cozying up with, but a brilliant affirmation of non-conformity, self-determination, and the power of art. For fans of Elizabeth McCracken, Tessa Hadley, and Ann Patchett!" --Kristen Iskandrian, Thank You Books, Birmingham, Ala.
Paperback
The End of the World Is a Cul de Sac: Stories by Louise Kennedy (Riverhead, $18, 9780593540930). "Kennedy displays why she was able to make her name, writing with a delicateness that articulates a great love for these characters as they weave through domestic peril. Her ability to fit complex characters into a short window is remarkable." --Richard Dixon, Politics and Prose Bookstore, Washington, D.C.
Ages 3-7
Bigfoot's Big Heart by Sarah Glenn Marsh, illus. by Ishaa Lobo (Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99, 9780593352243). "This is adorable! Bigfoot and all the cryptids around the globe find some unexpected (and very determined) allies in scouting kids worldwide. Here's a perfect Valentine for all the introverts or shy kids or delightful weirdos!" --Tegan Tigani, Queen Anne Book Company, Seattle, Wash.
Ages 10-14
Bye Forever, I Guess by Jodi Meadows (Holiday House, $18.99, 9780823456383). "Never want to say goodbye to Bye Forever, I Guess! The perfect middle grade novel about the changing nature of friendship, finding your fit while remaining true to yourself, and where to sit at lunch. Plus, a focus on nerdy girls rocks!" --Susan Williams, M. Judson Booksellers & Storytellers, Greenville, S.C.
Teen Readers
The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew (Joy Revolution, $19.99, 9780593710357). "Jill Tew's debut is everything readers have been waiting for. I was completely sucked in! With its swoony romance, twisty plot, and all the thrills, it's sure to make its way into the canon of YA dystopia." --Vania Stoyanova, Brave + Kind Bookshop, Decatur, Ga.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
