It’s the end of another year, and that means the web runneth over with lists of ‘best books.’ We did some surfing and rounded up a sample of both the traditional and offbeat for all the book lovers (and list lovers) out there. Plus, we took a poll among staff and volunteers for their favorite reads and DVDs of this year, and we’re sharing that eclectic list with you as well.

So if the holidays mean some extra reading time — or time to listen to audiobooks while you wrap gifts — check out the bonanza of great 2018 picks below …

Ten lists to check out…

Library favorites…

Here are some of the books and DVDs that library staff and volunteers enjoyed this year — some with reader’s notes — arranged in alphabetical order by title. These were all published in 2018 unless otherwise noted. Clicking on a title below will take you to the item’s catalog page — which includes a summary — from which you can place a book on hold or add it to a reading list for safe keeping in your online account if you wish:

FICTION

 

 

  • The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin.
  • My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh — [Reader’s note: Set in the pre-9/11 era, a young woman from Manhattan should be happy, she has everything most anyone else would want — looks, money, graduate of a prestigious school — and yet she searches for a way to tune out of life. From a self-induced, absolutely-do-not-try-at-home medical cocktail, our heroine recruits a friend who is just as twisted (and an artist) to help her stay under the influence to find her way back to relaxation. The narrator never leaves you out in the cold through this twisted, dark adventure.]
  • Transcription by Kate Atkinson.
  • When the Lights Go Out by Mary Kubica — [Reader’s note: A young woman’s life unravels upon the death of her mother. Is she losing her grip on reality, or is her whole life a lie? Read to find out!]

NONFICTION

 

 

  • The How Not to Die Cookbook: 100+ Recipes to Help Prevent and Reverse Disease (2017) by Michael Greger, M.D.
  • The Library Book by Susan Orlean — [Reader’s Note: Centered on the 1986 fire of the Los Angeles Public Library, this highly readable work of nonfiction provides insight to “how a library works” and “why you need a library.” At 317 pages with illustrations and photographs, it could be finished in a weekend.  There are so many beautiful gems of information embedded in this thorough, well-researched book that should be required for anyone who loves books, reading, libraries, public service, emergency services, or Los Angeles history.]
  • Side Hustle: From Idea to Income in 27 Days (2017) by Chris Gillebeau. [Reader’s Note: A book that gets you thinking about how to turn your ideas and interests into income for both fun and some extra security. Chris — who visited all 193 countries in the world before his 35th birthday — also has a companion daily podcast with more than 700 episodes to date where he shares stories and case studies about some of the creative ways people have created side income while working a ‘day job.’]
  • Tribe of Mentors: Short Life Advice From the Best In the World (2017) by Tim Ferriss. [Reader’s note: Tim, who first became known for writing The Four-Hour Workweek, was on the cusp of turning 40 when he lost several friends in rapid succession. To find answers to some of the questions that were plaguing him, he turned to large group of high achievers ranging from their 20s to their 80s. This book gathers their wisdom on everything from daily habits to best books to how to bounce back from failure. Fun to sample at random for some bite-size insights and inspiration.]

BIOGRAPHY

 

DVD

 

  • The House With a Clock In Its Walls (PG 1h45m) — [Reader’s note: This unique movie is based on a book. With interesting characters and storyline, this American family fantasy film has the right mix of spooky and humor.]
  • Molly’s Game (R 2h21m) — [Reader’s note: This was a surprise and quite good.]
  • RBG (PG 1 h38m) — [Reader’s note: A biopic/ documentary featuring popular, dissenting, Supreme Court Judge Ruth Bader Ginsberg. An unlikely superhero, the Notorious RBG has rocked the Supreme Court and the public-at-large by continuing to fight for equal rights for all Americans. This small but mighty lady has stood up to any challenge and holds one of the most remarkable legal careers of anyone in modern history. Featuring commentary from her family, including husband Martin who passed away in 2010, and peers, this is a remarkably accessible film highlighting one of today’s most respected legal figures.]
  • Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (PG-13 1 hr34m) — [Reader’s note: A biopic/documentary focusing on the life and message of everyone’s favorite neighbor, Mr. Fred Rogers, and the impact he had on society. Through today’s eye, I am even more blown away by his gentleness and ability to find the good in people. One of my favorite quotes is from Mr. Rogers: “You will always find people who are helping,” a reminder that even in times of disaster, the goodness in people will win out. Spoiler alert — everyone I know who has watched it has cried.]

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There you have it! Hopefully you won’t lack for reading ideas anytime soon.

So what were your favorite reads this year? Share your top picks in the comments!