Favorite 2024 Reads from the Staff @ Your Craven-Pamlico Regional Library
The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore
Our Book Club "The Page Turners" checked out the book kit for this title. The book was thick so a lot of us were intimidated! As we began reading it, several of us were outraged at how this woman was treated. This fostered the desire to press onward through the pages as we learned how she fought against obstacle after obstacle. Her strength as she fought for freedom for herself and other women was courageous, and her intellect was amazing! If you have any interest in learning about insane asylums, this book provides information about how women and some men were treated in the 1860's. Our book club decided a new ward would have to have been created for us, "Ward 9"!
Julie Cox, Cove City - Branch Manager
The Nobleman's Guide to Scandal and Shipwrecks by Mackenzi Lee
I related to the main character more than I ever had with a fictional character. Now, whenever I feel my anxiety acting up, I tell myself "Adrian, breathe" and it helps me calm down.
Hannah Nemcosky, New Bern Library Assistant
Death at Morning House by Maureen Johnson
Death at Morning House is another hit by Maureen Johnson. Like her Truly Devious series, this historical fiction cold-case mystery novel, based in New York's Thousand Islands, is brimming with sharp observations about the world and delicious twists and turns.
Brianna Leverenz, New Bern Library Assistant
The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden
It was very suspenseful and held your attention to the very end. It kept you wondering and trying to figure out the plot twist.
Tammy Ward, New Bern-Administrative Assistant
Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
The second book in a duology I read it in January and just loved her writing style its magic and war mixed with gods and romance. Just a super fun read.
Crystal Levin, Cove City Library Assistant
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
This historical fiction adventure takes readers on an unforgettable journey through time and into the hearts of the characters. Each page invites you to explore their dreams, struggles, and triumphs, creating an emotional connection that lingers long after the final chapter.
Sidney Phibbons, Pamlico County Library Branch Manager
The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang
The Poppy War is a military fantasy trilogy about a young war orphan who has always been at a disadvantage due to her gender and the color of her skin, who works relentlessly to enter the best military academy in her country and eventually gains unfathomable power from a merciless god. I loved each of the characters in this book for their motivation in taking back power and seeking revenge, and for the brutal depictions of war that parallel real historical events in our world.
Charlie Woodall, Outreach Library Assistant
Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan
I keep reaching for this book that has beautiful nature drawings from Amy Tan to inspire my nature journaling, but also to read her delightful, inquisitive stories she tells of the birds and animal characters she observed in her California backyard. "
Wild and Distant Seas by Tara Karr Roberts
Starting on Nantucket in the 1840s, this atmospheric and hard-scrabble story of a widow innkeeper trying to forge a life in a dying whaling industry town, where she meets a man who wants to be called Ishmael. Wonderful storytelling and imaginative twists to the Moby Dick themed book.
Amy Tattersall, New Bern Library Assistant Adult Services
The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown
In 1936, nine collegiate rowers competed successfully at the Berlin Olympics and won gold for the United States. In the audience was Adolf Hitler, who had hoped for a German victory in the event. One of the rowers, Joe Rantz, overcame the trauma of family abandonment to lead the team to victory. The Boys in the Boat is more than the story of dedicated athletes who achieved success in the competitive sport of rowing. It is about the boat and the mystical strength which these athletes received.
Wendy L. Rosen, New Bern-Craven County Public Library, Adult Services Librarian
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
A beautifully written novel, with characters that were superbly written and developed.
Maryellen Bickel, Pamlico Library Assistant
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Who wouldn't like a book about an octopus that can outsmart everyone! I have always been fascinated by octopuses. They are intelligent animals. I found this book refreshing. I cannot recall any other book like it. It interweaves a cast of characters and story line about loss, misunderstandings, ageing, and of old and new friendships. Then it adds a point of view from the Giant Pacific Octopus who lives in the local public aquarium. The octopus has his own story to tell too. The book had a good story and was a quick read. I found myself especially looking forward to each chapter that was from the octopus' point of view on his own life and of observing people. The thoughts and adventures of the octopus provided a fictional insight on real adventures octopuses are known to take and will make you smile or even laugh out loud.
In addition, my second favorite read this year was Secrets of An Octopus, by Sy Montgomery. This book highlights the personality and intelligence of an octopus from a scientific point of view. Some of the real life escapes and behaviors were funny and fascinating.
Dee Lupton, Pamlico County, Substitute Library Assistant
In Every Life by Marla Frazee
Beautiful messages and illustrations.
Rebecca Lucas, New Bern Youth Services Supervisor
Curse of the Specter Queen by Jenny Elder Moke
A young antique bookseller gets pulled into an Indiana Jones type escapade with a forbidden crush and his juvenile delinquent sister. It has Titanic vibes, ancient monastery vibes, secret maps hidden in plain sight, mythical bad guys, and traitors. It's a lot of fun.
The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson
A young boy without magic learns to work within his own abilities with teamwork to save the day. It's a new world with different magic and deadly threats to students at the school that can impact the world. If only there were a book 2.
Etiquette and Espionage by Gail Carriger
A socially ""hopeless"" girl gets trained in a school that uses her skills and abilities to save society from a mysterious threat. There's a floating school, supernatural beings, coal fires and gears, disguises, Victorian fashion, petty bickering, tested friendships and lots of sneaking around with a wonderfully satisfying twist at the end.
Shirin Scotten, New Bern Youth Services Library Assistant
Turtles All The Way Down by John Green
As someone who lives every day with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and hears all of the conversation surrounding it that is oftentimes incorrect, it was so refreshing to read this story where it's done RIGHT. John Green, himself, has OCD and was able to wonderfully and beautifully put into words some of my very own feelings and experiences. I felt very seen and understood reading this novel; truly, I felt less alone. I've recommended this book to nearly everyone in my close friend group and family because of how well he describes what OCD is like! I love love love this book!
Hannah Gatlin, New Bern-Craven County Public Library/Children's Outreach Library Assistant
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
I found Steinbeck’s prose very enjoyable to read. The plot is like a modern version of the biblical story of Cain and Abel, something I learned as a young child. I liked making the connections b/w East of Eden and Cain and Abel, and my familiarity with the latter built my anticipation for the tragic death of a brother by his brother. That particular story is discussed in the book, with a focus on the Hebrew word “timshel” which my favorite character, Lee, translates it to “you may.” This word is ultimately the main theme of the book. I interpret “you may” as “it’s your choice.” “You may” make good or bad decisions in life. “You may” take action to live the life you want. I think it’s a strong message and a beautiful take away from the story that is full of compelling characters with dynamic lives.
Audrey Hargrove, Havelock Library Assistant
JFK Jr.: an intimate oral biography by RoseMarie Terenzio
It was a warts and all biography about JFK Jr. that further illustrates, at least to me, he was a young man full of life and character. He died way too young and it made me ponder how the world could have been so different if he were around today.
Deborah Fox, Havelock Library Assistant
We Used To Live Here by Marcus Kliewer
This was a mind-bending suspense thriller with creepy elements and enough mystery to keep your mind entertained long after finishing the book. Hint: there are several Morse code messages embedded in certain sections of the text which, when deciphered, provide clues to the story. Soon to be a Netflix original movie starring Hollywood superstar Blake Lively!
Travis Green, New Bern Public Library Assistant
1984 by George Orwell
The ending made my jaw drop.
Alicia Dixon, Pamlico Library Assistant
Dragon Rider by Taran Matharu
A new fantasy series with orphans, war, intrigue, magic, and dragons!
Victor Jones, New Bern Library Special Collections Librarian
Our Book Club "The Page Turners" checked out the book kit for this title. The book was thick so a lot of us were intimidated! As we began reading it, several of us were outraged at how this woman was treated. This fostered the desire to press onward through the pages as we learned how she fought against obstacle after obstacle. Her strength as she fought for freedom for herself and other women was courageous, and her intellect was amazing! If you have any interest in learning about insane asylums, this book provides information about how women and some men were treated in the 1860's. Our book club decided a new ward would have to have been created for us, "Ward 9"!
Julie Cox, Cove City - Branch Manager
The Nobleman's Guide to Scandal and Shipwrecks by Mackenzi Lee
I related to the main character more than I ever had with a fictional character. Now, whenever I feel my anxiety acting up, I tell myself "Adrian, breathe" and it helps me calm down.
Hannah Nemcosky, New Bern Library Assistant
Death at Morning House by Maureen Johnson
Death at Morning House is another hit by Maureen Johnson. Like her Truly Devious series, this historical fiction cold-case mystery novel, based in New York's Thousand Islands, is brimming with sharp observations about the world and delicious twists and turns.
Brianna Leverenz, New Bern Library Assistant
The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden
It was very suspenseful and held your attention to the very end. It kept you wondering and trying to figure out the plot twist.
Tammy Ward, New Bern-Administrative Assistant
Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
The second book in a duology I read it in January and just loved her writing style its magic and war mixed with gods and romance. Just a super fun read.
Crystal Levin, Cove City Library Assistant
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
This historical fiction adventure takes readers on an unforgettable journey through time and into the hearts of the characters. Each page invites you to explore their dreams, struggles, and triumphs, creating an emotional connection that lingers long after the final chapter.
Sidney Phibbons, Pamlico County Library Branch Manager
The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang
The Poppy War is a military fantasy trilogy about a young war orphan who has always been at a disadvantage due to her gender and the color of her skin, who works relentlessly to enter the best military academy in her country and eventually gains unfathomable power from a merciless god. I loved each of the characters in this book for their motivation in taking back power and seeking revenge, and for the brutal depictions of war that parallel real historical events in our world.
Charlie Woodall, Outreach Library Assistant
Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan
I keep reaching for this book that has beautiful nature drawings from Amy Tan to inspire my nature journaling, but also to read her delightful, inquisitive stories she tells of the birds and animal characters she observed in her California backyard. "
Wild and Distant Seas by Tara Karr Roberts
Starting on Nantucket in the 1840s, this atmospheric and hard-scrabble story of a widow innkeeper trying to forge a life in a dying whaling industry town, where she meets a man who wants to be called Ishmael. Wonderful storytelling and imaginative twists to the Moby Dick themed book.
Amy Tattersall, New Bern Library Assistant Adult Services
The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown
In 1936, nine collegiate rowers competed successfully at the Berlin Olympics and won gold for the United States. In the audience was Adolf Hitler, who had hoped for a German victory in the event. One of the rowers, Joe Rantz, overcame the trauma of family abandonment to lead the team to victory. The Boys in the Boat is more than the story of dedicated athletes who achieved success in the competitive sport of rowing. It is about the boat and the mystical strength which these athletes received.
Wendy L. Rosen, New Bern-Craven County Public Library, Adult Services Librarian
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
A beautifully written novel, with characters that were superbly written and developed.
Maryellen Bickel, Pamlico Library Assistant
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Who wouldn't like a book about an octopus that can outsmart everyone! I have always been fascinated by octopuses. They are intelligent animals. I found this book refreshing. I cannot recall any other book like it. It interweaves a cast of characters and story line about loss, misunderstandings, ageing, and of old and new friendships. Then it adds a point of view from the Giant Pacific Octopus who lives in the local public aquarium. The octopus has his own story to tell too. The book had a good story and was a quick read. I found myself especially looking forward to each chapter that was from the octopus' point of view on his own life and of observing people. The thoughts and adventures of the octopus provided a fictional insight on real adventures octopuses are known to take and will make you smile or even laugh out loud.
In addition, my second favorite read this year was Secrets of An Octopus, by Sy Montgomery. This book highlights the personality and intelligence of an octopus from a scientific point of view. Some of the real life escapes and behaviors were funny and fascinating.
Dee Lupton, Pamlico County, Substitute Library Assistant
In Every Life by Marla Frazee
Beautiful messages and illustrations.
Rebecca Lucas, New Bern Youth Services Supervisor
Curse of the Specter Queen by Jenny Elder Moke
A young antique bookseller gets pulled into an Indiana Jones type escapade with a forbidden crush and his juvenile delinquent sister. It has Titanic vibes, ancient monastery vibes, secret maps hidden in plain sight, mythical bad guys, and traitors. It's a lot of fun.
The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson
A young boy without magic learns to work within his own abilities with teamwork to save the day. It's a new world with different magic and deadly threats to students at the school that can impact the world. If only there were a book 2.
Etiquette and Espionage by Gail Carriger
A socially ""hopeless"" girl gets trained in a school that uses her skills and abilities to save society from a mysterious threat. There's a floating school, supernatural beings, coal fires and gears, disguises, Victorian fashion, petty bickering, tested friendships and lots of sneaking around with a wonderfully satisfying twist at the end.
Shirin Scotten, New Bern Youth Services Library Assistant
Turtles All The Way Down by John Green
As someone who lives every day with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and hears all of the conversation surrounding it that is oftentimes incorrect, it was so refreshing to read this story where it's done RIGHT. John Green, himself, has OCD and was able to wonderfully and beautifully put into words some of my very own feelings and experiences. I felt very seen and understood reading this novel; truly, I felt less alone. I've recommended this book to nearly everyone in my close friend group and family because of how well he describes what OCD is like! I love love love this book!
Hannah Gatlin, New Bern-Craven County Public Library/Children's Outreach Library Assistant
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
I found Steinbeck’s prose very enjoyable to read. The plot is like a modern version of the biblical story of Cain and Abel, something I learned as a young child. I liked making the connections b/w East of Eden and Cain and Abel, and my familiarity with the latter built my anticipation for the tragic death of a brother by his brother. That particular story is discussed in the book, with a focus on the Hebrew word “timshel” which my favorite character, Lee, translates it to “you may.” This word is ultimately the main theme of the book. I interpret “you may” as “it’s your choice.” “You may” make good or bad decisions in life. “You may” take action to live the life you want. I think it’s a strong message and a beautiful take away from the story that is full of compelling characters with dynamic lives.
Audrey Hargrove, Havelock Library Assistant
JFK Jr.: an intimate oral biography by RoseMarie Terenzio
It was a warts and all biography about JFK Jr. that further illustrates, at least to me, he was a young man full of life and character. He died way too young and it made me ponder how the world could have been so different if he were around today.
Deborah Fox, Havelock Library Assistant
We Used To Live Here by Marcus Kliewer
This was a mind-bending suspense thriller with creepy elements and enough mystery to keep your mind entertained long after finishing the book. Hint: there are several Morse code messages embedded in certain sections of the text which, when deciphered, provide clues to the story. Soon to be a Netflix original movie starring Hollywood superstar Blake Lively!
Travis Green, New Bern Public Library Assistant
1984 by George Orwell
The ending made my jaw drop.
Alicia Dixon, Pamlico Library Assistant
Dragon Rider by Taran Matharu
A new fantasy series with orphans, war, intrigue, magic, and dragons!
Victor Jones, New Bern Library Special Collections Librarian
Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogy by Stephanie Garber
Once Upon a Broken Heart series was such a fun romance fantasy story! I read all three books in less than a week.
The Poppy War trilogy by RF Kuang
The Poppy War trilogy was the best fantasy series I've read. I still think about the ending months after finishing it!
Once Upon a Broken Heart series was such a fun romance fantasy story! I read all three books in less than a week.
The Poppy War trilogy by RF Kuang
The Poppy War trilogy was the best fantasy series I've read. I still think about the ending months after finishing it!
Jaid Stewart, New Bern Library Assistant
I rarely check out cooking books, but this one caught my eye. This cookbook, The Pioneer Woman Cooks-Dinner's Ready!, is excellent for anyone who doesn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. Each recipe features step-by-step photos and specifies the time required to complete it. Many family favorites, like pasta and pizza, come with fun twists. The best part is that the recipes do not require fancy ingredients that you must find in specialty stores. The photos also addressed many of my questions. While cooking isn't my strong suit, and I've only tried a few recipes, I particularly enjoyed the pan-seared broccoli and fried fish. I haven't tried it yet, but I look forward to revisiting the book to make the "easy" pan cookie recipe. Just a heads up—ensure you’re not hungry while browsing the book! The pictures are so enticing that I often find myself craving a snack!
Katherine B. Clowers, Regional Director Craven-Pamlico Regional Library
The German girl by Correa by Armando Lucas
The German Girl sweeps from Berlin at the brink of the Second World War to Cuba on the cusp of revolution, to New York in the wake of September 11, before reaching its deeply moving conclusion in the tumult of present-day Havana. Based on a true story, this masterful novel gives voice to the joys and sorrows of generations of exiles, forever seeking a place called home.
Peggi Carman, Craven-Pamlico Regional Library Webmaster
The German girl by Correa by Armando Lucas
The German Girl sweeps from Berlin at the brink of the Second World War to Cuba on the cusp of revolution, to New York in the wake of September 11, before reaching its deeply moving conclusion in the tumult of present-day Havana. Based on a true story, this masterful novel gives voice to the joys and sorrows of generations of exiles, forever seeking a place called home.
Peggi Carman, Craven-Pamlico Regional Library Webmaster
