Wellesley Books Newsletter
February 19th, 2025
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When the wind is a blowin' and the temperature drops, it's best to stay inside where it's warm. Pass the time with a book, or a game! We've got some great new board games, perfect for big groups and parties, or casual two-player fun. For the competitors, the trivia fans, and the cozy gamers, find something you'll love here! | | |
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Tuesday, February 25th, 7pm
"Writing About Illness and the Healing Power of Story: A Mini-Memoir Workshop"
Memoirists Jennifer Crystal (One Tick Stopped the Clock) and Melanie Brooks (A Hard Silence) join us for a discussion about how to give words to difficult stories.
The authors will read from their books and then discuss their lives and what they've learned about giving words to difficult stories. This will be followed by a writing prompt led by the authors so that the audience can learn how to write from their own experiences. Audience members will be encouraged to share what they write! The night will conclude with a Q&A followed by a signing line during which the audience will be able to meet the authors.
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Thursday, February 27th, 7pm
Shoumita Dasgupta, a geneticist and internationally recognized anti-racism educator, joins us to discuss her fascinating and important new book, Where Biology Ends and Bias Begins: Lessons on Belonging from Our DNA. Shoumita will be joined by Marnie Gelbart, Director of Programs at Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue.
Well-meaning physicians, parents, and even scientists today often spread misinformation about what biology can and can’t tell us about our bodies, minds, and identities. In this accessible, myth-busting book, geneticist Shoumita Dasgupta draws on the latest science to correct common misconceptions about how much of our social identities are actually based in genetics. With a unifying and intersectional approach disentangling biology from bigotry, the book moves beyond race and gender to incorporate categories like sexual orientation, disability, and class.
"A wonderfully accessible overview of just how easily bias can creep into science, together with solid, practical advice on how to challenge it. A valuable resource for researchers, physicians, and policymakers." –Angela Saini, author of Superior: The Return of Race Science
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Monday, March 3rd, 7pm
Elinor Lipman, author of Ms. Demeanor and On Turpentine Lane joins us to discuss her new book, Every Tom, Dick & Harry.
Taking over her parents’ estate-sale business is not the life’s work that Emma Lewis bargained for. Yes, she grew up helping them empty people’s nests, but nothing prepared her for her biggest and stickiest "get"—the grand, beautiful house of ill repute masquerading as a decidedly beddable B and B. Should Emma turn down potential clients in need of decluttering just because they are shady, escort-y, and proud of it? No. A girl must make a living.
A charming, laugh-out-loud tale of love and criminality, a pitch-perfect romantic comedy.
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Tuesday, March 4th, 7pm
Tova Mirvis, author of The Book of Separation and The Ladies Auxiliary, joins us to discuss her new novel, We Would Never. Tova will be in conversation with Heidi Pitlor, the director of Heidi Pitlor Editorial.
No one appears more surprised than Hailey Gelman when she comes under suspicion for the murder of her soon-to-be ex-husband Jonah. Hailey—nicknamed Sunshine by her mother for her bright outlook and ever-present smile—has always tried to do what is expected of her and is regarded as the family peacemaker. But is anyone, including Hailey, who she has always seemed to be? Inspired by a true story, We Would Never is a gripping mystery, an intimate family drama, and a provocative exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred line between protecting and forsaking the ones we love most.
“A penetrating study of a family whose all-consuming love for each other turns sinister. Readers won’t be able to look away.” —Publishers Weekly
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Thursday, March 13th, 7pm
Pushcart Prize-winning author Cynthia Weiner joins us to discuss her debut novel, A Gorgeous Excitement. Cynthia will be in conversation with Laura Zigman, author of Small World and Separation Anxiety.
New York is a deadly place to be gorgeous. Set against the backdrop of a menacingly gritty Manhattan of the 1980s, there are two things Nina Jacobs is determined to do over the summer of 1986: avoid her mother’s depression-fueled rages, and lose her virginity before she starts college in the fall. .After she’s introduced to cocaine, Nina plunges headlong into her pursuit of handsome, preppy, and charismatic, Gardner Reed, oblivious to the warning signs. When a new medication seemingly frees her mother from darkness, and Nina and Gardner grow closer, it seems like she might finally get what she wants. But at what cost?
Freud called cocaine “a gorgeous excitement,” but a gorgeous excitement for the wrong guy can be lethal.
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Bookseller recommendations | |
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Shanna recommends: On the Hippie Trail by Rick Steves
A fun 1978 romp from Istanbul to Katmandu with two 23-year olds. Steve’s travel journal entries are engaging and his photos are stunning. Interestingly, 1978 was the last year the Hippie Trail was open to travelers before it became too dangerous. This is a great travel adventure for anyone who loves travel narratives or Rick Steves.
"On the Hippie Trail is an inspiring read, full of the joy of adventure and discovery."—Lulu Garcia-Navarro, The New York Times
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Colleen recommends: Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks
Brooks eloquently shares her grief around the abrupt end of her marriage. Switching between the time of her husband's sudden death, and three years later, we are presented a portrait of devoted partners. She bares all in testament to that which must be put to rest-steeling herself to live while preserving the memory of her one true love.
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Jerry recommends: Fathers and Fugitives by S. J. Naude
A story of moments in a gay, ex-pat South African writer’s life, which come together in a beautifully written debut novel. Drifting through life and passively allowing random encounters to dislodge his writer’s block, Daniel ultimately deals with issues: family and his own. There are uncomfortable moments in his life from prolonging random hook ups with strangers, becoming a caretaker for his estranged father and other events involving Daniel’s family and relationships--as well as his relationship with S. Africa. A haunting, remarkable story that is unforgettable.
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From the author of The Berry Pickers comes an emotionally stunning collection of stories. Of various lengths, these narratives are simultaneously tender and bitter, sorrowful and brave, grieving and triumphant. Tackling topics like systemic racism, the forced removal of indigenous tribes, and climate justice with brief but lush prose, Peters blew me out of the water with this book.
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Bookseller recommendations for kids | |
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Kali recommends: The Lovely and the Lost by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
(Young Adult)
Kira's family and their pack of search-and-rescue dogs are called back to her mother's hometown deep in the Sierra Glades National Park to aid in a young girl's disappearance. As details of the case start to dredge up confusing memories of Kira's past, she learns some secrets are better left lost. A thrilling mystery focused on the complexities of identity, family, and, most importantly, lots of dogs!
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Sarah recommends: Mouse's Wood: A Year in Nature by Alice Melvin (Children's Picture Book)
This book has amazing artwork and beautiful fold-out pages for interactive fun! Follow Mouse through the seasons as he visits friends and wanders through nature as it makes its seasonal changes. With subtle rhymes and Mouse's monthly reflections, this book aptly portrays the tender and kind relationship between the earth and its inhabitants. It even has a cute character guide with facts at the back. One of my favorites to gift!
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New books for kids and parents | | |
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Did you know we offer book subscriptions for kids ages 3-6 and 8-12? A Child's Library and Middle Grade Monthly make great gifts. Click the links for more information or to sign up. Choose just one month at a time, or a yearly subscription.
February's picks are The Hare Who Wouldn't Share by Steve Small (Children's) and Will's Race for Home by Jewell Parker Rhodes (Middle Grade)
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New books for Young Readers | |
For those who have four-legged friends, we have a fun array of dog and cat themed gifts such as kitchenware, games, stationary, and socks. For four-legged friends, we have new dog and cat treats from Givepet, where a portion of proceeds go towards feeding shelter animals. Get a little, give a lot! | |
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In honor of Black History Month, below are staff favorites written by Black authors. You'll find a little bit of everything: fiction, memoir, short stories, history, and thrillers. Try something different and gain a new perspective today!
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Big
Vashti Harrison
(Child's Picture book)
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Mirandy and Brother Wind
Patricia McKissack
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
(Child's Picture Book)
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Astra is a 9 week old mini dachshund. She was the calmest, sweetest baby! Her intergalactic name was chosen to honor a past sibling, who also had a space themed name. Astra already knows how to sit, and has discovered her favorite food is apples. She experienced her first snow recently and enjoyed romping around.
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Thank you for supporting your community independent bookstore!
Sincerely,
Sarah Cyr
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