Staff Picks
June 2021
The Rose Code
by Kate Quinn
This historical fiction novel takes us back to both World War II and the wedding of then Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Mab, Osla and Beth are three young women who are all chosen to work on code breaking at Bletchley Park in England during World War II. They are sworn to secrecy regarding their work. As time and the war march onward, loyalties are broken, romantic liaisons are developed and emotions run high. This book, Playaway and CD audio is available at the library and on OverDrive as an ebook.
Recommended by: Becky McCormack Youth Services Assistant Manager
Posted in: Adult Fiction
On the Other Side of the Forest
by Nadine Robert
No one in the village dares to enter the forest that surrounds Arthur’s home. The forest is dark and people say it is filled with scary things. But Arthur’s dad is not scared, he is curious. Dad has a magnificent idea which brings the villagers together in a way that they’ve never been before. A tower, a storm, and a celebration will lead you to discover what is on the other side of the forest! Winner of the Harry Black Picture Book Award, this book will flood you with feel good, nostalgia as you turn each beautiful page.
Recommended by: Malorie Carpenter, Youth Services Assistant
Posted in: Youth Fiction
The Fifth Quarter
by Mike Dawson
Fourth grader Lori loves to play basketball, even though she’s not the strongest player. This love of the game helps her to navigate all the realities of growing up: trouble with friends, a first sleepaway camp, and her mom’s political ambitions. A charming tale of growing up, working towards your goals, and basketball. Perfect for sports enthusiasts and fans of Hena Khan’s basketball series.
Recommended by: Kara DeCarlo, Youth Services School Liaison
Posted in: Youth Fiction
Super Mario Maker 2
Ever breeze through a Mario level and thought that was too easy? Super Mario Maker 2 challenges Mario enthusiasts to make their own levels. Creating your own levels is a snap with a user-friendly course maker. You can save these levels for your friends and family to play or submit them over the internet. Not much of a creator and want to get in on the classic Mario platforming action? Super Mario Maker 2 has a story mode with pre-made levels for you to enjoy right away, and if you feel you need to up the ante, try going online and taking on some of the courses made by other Mario fans like yourself! Super Mario Maker 2 is available at the Orland Park Public Library on the Nintendo Switch console and is rated “E for Everyone.” A Nintendo Switch Online account is needed to submit and play user-created courses.
Recommended by: Alexander Pappas, Youth Services Reference Librarian I
Posted in: Video Games
May 2021
Call Down the Hawk
by Maggie Stiefvater
Posted in: Young Adult Fiction
Black Brother, Black Brother
by Jewell Rhodes
Donte and Trey are brothers attending an elite school when Donte is unjustly accused of a crime. He discovers the sport of fencing while suspended and begins training with a former Olympic champion. Donte’s initial goal is to beat the reigning fencing champion but as his training continues, he learns much more than just the techniques of his sport.
This book is available in the library and on OverDrive/Libby as an ebook and e audiobook.
Recommended by: Becky McCormack, Youth Services Assistant Manager
Posted in: Youth Fiction
The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance during the Blitz
by Eric Larson
Eric Larson tackles Winston Churchill grappling with war and with family in this excellent history. Spanning Churchill’s first year as Prime Minister, The Splendid and the Vile charts his family and political life during the course of the Battle of Britain and the Blitz. Larson takes us into Churchill’s inner circle of family, friends, and advisors as they guide Britain through the bleakest moments of the war with determination and fortitude.
This title is available in print and on OverDrive as an ebook.
Recommended by: Peter Tew, Adult Services Reference Librarian I
Posted in: Adult Nonfiction
Animals!: Here We Grow
by Shelley Rotner
An engaging look at the beauty of transformation in nature for preschoolers and emerging readers. On this visual introduction to life cycles, children will learn the different stages of growth of diverse species. Up-close photographs are presented in large panels to depict animal development. The large and simple text introduces the concepts with appropriate terminology. Whether your child is an independent reader or you enjoy reading together, this one is a great pick for nature lovers and inquisitive minds.
Recommended by: Fanny Camargo, Youth Services Reference Librarian I
Posted in: Youth Nonfiction
The Dragon Egg Princess
by Ellen Oh
Koko, unbeknownst to her, is the last of the dragons. Given at birth to the king and queen to raise, she has no idea of her true identity. She goes missing while still a young girl but is then discovered alive and well and living in a magical forest. An evil plot is hatched to deprive Koko of both her power and her throne. Many magical and non-magical creatures and humans come together to fight for good.
Recommended by: Becky McCormack, Youth Services Assistant Manager
Posted in: Youth Fiction
Once We Were Here
by Christopher Cosmos
Posted in: Adult Fiction