Weekend Reads

It's the weekend, and we have some new books on our shelves! Stop by and check them out!

You're Never Weird on the Internet (Almost) by Felicia Day

Felicia Day has many talents: acting, advanced mathematics, playing the violin, gaming. Her memoir, You're Never Weird on the Internet (Almost) blends a light-hearted retelling of her childhood with a slightly more serious (but still laced with humor) description of some difficult days that followed her success. Day is clearly an accomplished actor and executive who refuses to take herself too seriously, which is probably an asset when so much of your success is built upon the Internet, a space that can be as antagonistic as it can be accepting. One of the most remarkable qualities Day has is her willingness to really apply herself to a task, regardless of the anticipated outcome. The way she delves into seemingly impossible tasks is admirable, and also makes for some remarkable experiences along the way. 

Find it in Biographies under B DAY

The Worst Class Trip Ever by Dave Barry

Wyatt Palmer is an 8th grader at Culver Middle School in Miami. Each year, the 8th graders from Culver Middle School take a trip to Washington, D.C. as a part of their Civics class. While Wyatt is excited to hang out with his friend Matt Diaz, he really wants to try to spend more time with his crush Suzana Delgado. It seems from the outset that Wyatt and Matt are destined to have an eventful trip from the moment they step on the plane. The mysterious men sitting behind them seem to have some nefarious plans, and their interaction with these men set the tone for their entire trip.

Find it in Fiction under F BAR

Court of Fives by Kate Elliott

The Fives is an intricate, multilevel athletic competition that offers a chance for glory to the kingdom's best contenders, and Jessamy wants to enter the competition. Unfortunately, her family's status puts her in a difficult position. Her father is a lowborn Patron (meaning he is in the upper class but isn't from an esteemed family), but has risen high in the army while her mother is a beautiful Commoner. Due to her parents' different statuses, they've never married though they are deeply in love. Because of these family tensions, Jessamy cannot always just do what she likes, and this includes running the Fives. She trains in secret, and when family misfortune presents her with an opportunity to participate in the Fives she takes it. 

Kate Elliott is a World Fantasy Award Finalist, and her attention to detail is evident in her ability to build a world in fine detail. Readers can easily immerse themselves in the world of Jessamy and her sisters, which draws inspiration from Roman society so while it is a fantasy world there are some familiar touchstones. If you are looking for a new fantasty novel, consider Court of Fives!

Find it in Fiction under F ELL