Stories to Warm Winter Nights
By Tari Hendrickson, Reviewer
The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton
A Goodreads Choice Award winner and One Book One Lincoln finalist, The Light Pirate is set in the near future where society seems to be on the brink of collapse. Born with keen senses, protagonist Wanda knows she's different, yet she's reluctant to share her specialness with others when it's something she cannot quite comprehend herself. Wanda’s family and those who come to know her find her both beautiful and frightening. The tale is set in Florida during a time when hurricanes are stronger and more common, power less dependable, and the coastline is dissolving into the ocean. Wanda’s story invites us to consider how much resilience is needed in dark circumstances. You’ll see hope and joy in Wanda’s ability to adapt, even as her world is crumbling.
Lincoln City Libraries has 84 copies of this book. Available electronically.
God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This is a well-written mystery, thriller, and family drama that culminates in a satisfying ending. After an eight-year-old boy from the Van Laar family vanishes in the woods, his sister disappears in the same wilderness years later. The family's dark secrets surface as questions arise about both mysterious disappearances. Moore skillfully sketches characters through which the themes of wealth, power, and the blue-collar class emerges. The beautiful and dangerous wilderness enhances the suspense, with nostalgic summer camp elements that evoke strong images. Some readers may find the slow unwinding a bit challenging. This novel asks patience of those willing to invest in the layered storytelling, but it rewards the patient reader.
Lincoln City Libraries has 39 copies of this book. Available electronically.
Dust Child by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai
This novel is a saga of family secrets, changing perspectives, and forgiveness set against the backdrop of the war in Vietnam and its aftermath. Two sisters work in the bars of Saigon, spending time with American soldiers to earn money. Some of these soldiers father children, but what happens when those children are left behind? The past and present collide in this tale of a soldier seeking redemption and an Amerasian man looking to belong. The author powerfully shows the far-reaching impact of war on all involved: the young servicemen, the ordinary citizens who struggle to survive, and most of all, Amerasians who have no choice but to deal with the tragic fallout of war. The story is powerful with well-developed characters that I cared about: Phong, Trang, Dan, and Quynh, and their respective stories.
“At the end of each war, whoever wins, the people lose.” – Poet Nguyen Duy
Lincoln City Libraries has 95 copies of this book. Available electronically.
Tari Hendrickson is a member of two book clubs, one of which she founded over 20 years ago. She remembers the thrill when letters and words came together and made sense in first grade.