by Jason Reynolds and Jason Griffin Author Jason Reynolds, in collaboration with artist Jason Griffin, creates a timely and evocative art/text mashup. Centering around the theme of breathing, the creators explore the Black experience in America, the COVID-19 pandemic, and social justice. Using mixed-media art combined with powerful poetry, readers experience this turbulent chapter in…
by Patrick Bringley Patrick Bringley’s memoir offers an intimate look at his decade-long career as a museum guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Through his experiences, Bringley explores themes of art, beauty, loss, and the human connection to creative expression.The memoir provides a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's…
by Gail Tsukiyama Set in the late 1930s during the Second Sino-Japanese war, a young Chinese man retreats to a serene coastal village in Japan to recover from tuberculosis. While healing, Stephen is cared for by a steward named Matsu whose story of loss and love intrigues Stephen. The two bond over the tranquil art…
by Sofia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and M.J. Rose With alternating storylines set in early 1900s Sweden and present-day New York City, this historical fiction book considers the enduring power of Hilma af Klint’s art. Hilma, along with four female friends, collectively known as The Five, gather together on Friday nights to perform seances in the…
by Bianca Bosker Bianca Bosker takes a deep dive into the art world, examining the way we see and experience art in this funny and gripping memoir. Bosker investigates how and why art takes hold of our senses and even our person in such different and profound ways, looking at perspectives from gallerists, collectors, curators,…
by Shonda Buchanan This powerful, deeply personal narrative explores Buchanan’s complex identity. She reflects on the trauma, resilience, and strength passed down through generations, as well as the tensions and misunderstandings she encountered due to her mixed heritage. Throughout, she weaves in stories of her ancestors, shedding light on the hidden and painful history of…
by Javier Zamora This poignant memoir recalls Zamora's harrowing journey from El Salvador to the United States, making the dangerous trek alone at nine years old. Zamora reflects on the emotional toll of being separated from his family as well as fear of the unknown. Solito is a raw and powerful exploration of the immigrant…
by TJ Klune This heartwarming fantasy novel follows Linus Baker, a government worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. Linus is tasked with a special assignment to visit a mysterious orphanage on a secluded island, where six magical children—each with unique and dangerous abilities—are cared for by their enigmatic guardian, Arthur Parnassus. Linus…
by Elisa Gabbert Every life is a unique experience but what commonalities unite us? How can our personal stories be relatable? Books, music, art—we may view these differently, yet we relate to common themes. Gabbert considers how these perceptions influence our understanding in regard to artforms. These 16 essays look at who we are when…
by Jennifer Murphy At 15 years old, Blue is ready to leave a life spent on the run with her eccentric artist mother, Scarlet. For too long, Blue and Scarlet have been hiding from HIM, a shadow man Blue has never actually seen. Landing in South Haven, Michigan, they find a welcoming community, but Scarlet’s…
by Nell Painter About this book: Celebrated historian Dr. Nell Painter shares her story of returning to art school at the age of 64. Painter illustrates her unique perspective by offering insights on the intersection of art and sexism, ageism, and racism throughout her personal journey to earning a BFA and MFA. This memoir will…
by Sarah B. Hart About the Book: Dr. Sarah Hart argues that literature and mathematics complement each other in illustrating humanity’s journey. Books like Moby Dick, Alice in Wonderland, and Jurassic Park feature mathematical ideas that deepen their meaning. Through humor and insight, this exploration reveals how recognizing math in literature can enrich our appreciation…