Recommendations and Reviews

Summer reading is back, friends, which means that our shelves are spilling over with bright new literary confections. This week, we want to share a stop-in-your-tracks-gorgeous picture book that will inspire profound conversations. From there, you can take a refreshing dip into some middle grade magic or explore the buzzy new YA novel that’s part The Princess Diaries, part Crazy Rich Asians. We also have three breezy reads for adults, plus a wildly entertaining Texas-based family novel that takes its cues from Greek mythology. And finally, a dishy Hollywood memoir with surprising emotional resonance. Shake off your beach towel and stop in for a stack—we’d love to see you.

We have a bee in our bonnet about books around here—can’t stop reading them, can’t stop talking about them. So this week, we’re bringing you a range of buzzed-about recommendations that we just know you’re going to love. Below, you’ll find a stunning new picture book that encourages readers to stop and appreciate nature, a beekeeping novel, a sweet-as-honey rom com that’s perfect for the beach, an ode to the hummingbird, and much more. Give us a buzz and schedule your shopping appointment—there’s reading to be done!

Could your shelves use a little freshening, friends? (This is a trick question. The answer is always “yes.”) Our merry band of booksellers has been enjoying the wave of spring releases coming into the shop, and we’d love to share a few of our favorites with you. This week, we’re excited about an unusual new picture book from an all-time favorite, a pair of YA adventures loved by our teen advisory board, a modern short story collection that draws from mythology, and a trio of novels vetted by Liz. Read on!

As we continue to mask up and social distance… well, it’s another great week to curl up with a good book, isn’t it? Fortunately, we have some great recommendations to help you do exactly that, highlighted by a trio of wonderful historical novels. If that’s not your flavor, don’t worry: We also have a sweet family read-aloud, swoony YA escapism, a multi-generational South African saga, and two compelling memoirs from a pair of remarkable women. Happy reading, Houston—and here’s hoping that we can gather together to talk about books in the not-too-distant future.

Spring is here! Which, in Houston, means that summer could come any second now. For that reason, it’s important to round into peak beach-reading form now—and we have a six-pack of new releases to help you do just that. From a soaring picture book celebrating the wonderful work of tradesmen to YA self-discovery (available in fantasy and realism!) to clever mysteries and adventure tales, we know you’ll find something to love about one of the books below. Read on!

 It’s Women’s History Month, friends, and you can believe that this woman-owned, women-staffed indie bookstore is celebrating. Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of our very favorite nonfiction books that celebrate women throughout history—from forgotten stories and tales of history to modern examples of perseverance and generational change. We’ve included all ages in our list, as well as short blurbs from our merry band of booksellers. So whether you’re looking for yourself or for the youngest of readers in your life, you’ll find just the right fit. Read on!

It’s early March, and around here that means one thing: Book bonanza. The start of spring publishing season always brings an embarrassment of riches to our shelves, from bright new picture books to much-anticipated novels. You can read about just a few of our favorites here, but don’t hesitate to call the shop or make an appointment if you’re after more—if there’s one thing we never run out of, it’s book recommendations. Happy reading!

Are you staying safe and warm, friends? It’s been a long, cold week here at the shop, and we’ve been thinking of you all. If your house is heated, if your pipes are unfrozen, and if you’re sitting in front of a fire looking for something to read, we have a few new suggestions for you below—lots of great novels have been published this month. If you’re looking for something shorter, there’s a fabulous new picture book we know your family will love. Bundle up and read on!

February is Black History Month, and we hope you’ll join us in marking the occasion by adding a few new books to your shelves. Here, we’ve collected a list of newly released and forthcoming books by some of our favorite Black creators—with helpful blurbs from our staff of booksellers! The recommendations below span all ages and interests, so whether you’re in the mood for a sweet picture book or a thoughtful collection of essays, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your TBR list. 

Here on the blog, we do our best to shine a light on the very best new books that we think you’ll love. Sometimes, that means that we focus in on a few exciting new novels. Other times, we may shine a light on a handful of great new picture books. And sometimes, like today, we have a range of fun recommendations for toddlers, grandmas, and everyone in between. That’s right: It’s a classic, all-ages Blue Willow bookish love fest. Dig in!