How to Know a Person by David BrooksHow to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen

Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame

“One of those books you just want to hug to your chest. I loved it so much.”—Jasmine Guillory, New York Times bestselling author of While We Were Dating A huge-hearted, redemptive coming-of-old-age tale, a love story, and an ode to good food.Nothing could be more out of character, but after fifty-nine years of marriage, as her husband Bernard’s health declines, and her friends’ lives become focused on their grandchildren—which Jenny never had—Jenny decides she wants a little something for herself. So she secretly applies to be a contestant on the prime-time TV show Britain Bakes.Whisked into an unfamiliar world of cameras and timed challenges, Jenny delights in a new-found independence. But that independence, and the stress of the competition, starts to unearth memories buried decades ago. Chocolate teacakes remind her of a furtive errand involving a wedding ring; sugared doughnuts call up a stranger’s kind act; a simple cottage loaf brings back the moment her life changed forever.

More Adult, Non-Juvenile Books

  • In The Other Valley, sixteen-year-old Odile navigates the complexities of time and choice as she vies for a position on the Conseil, which controls the borders of her town. When she discovers that the parents of her friend Edme have crossed into her present from the future, she must confront her feelings for him while grappling with the immense responsibility of preserving the timeline.
  • The Queen of Sugar Hill tells the poignant story of Hattie McDaniel, the first African-American woman to win an Academy Award, as she navigates the complexities of fame and identity after her historic win. Facing both adoration and scorn, she struggles to find her place in a divided society while remaining committed to paving the way for future Black actors. ReShonda Tate masterfully captures Hattie's resilience and determination in this unforgettable tale of ambition and equality.
  • The Rediscovery of America by Ned Blackhawk presents a transformative retelling of U.S. history, emphasizing the crucial role of Native Americans in shaping modern America. This work challenges traditional narratives that often overlook Indigenous history, highlighting their struggle, survival, and resurgence throughout five centuries. Blackhawk's synthesis reveals the enduring power and agency of Native peoples, offering a more nuanced understanding of the United States.
  • In a moment of levity during the season's first snowfall, Jack and Mabel build a child out of snow. The next morning the snow child is gone -- but they glimpse a young, blonde-haired girl running through the trees.