Staff Picks

Falling Kingdoms

by Morgan Rhodes

Four teenagers hailing for three different kingdoms in the land of Mytica encounter a disruption in the trajectory of their lives after incidents occur connecting them all together. Falling Kingdoms is the first book in a series that is perfect for readers looking for something to dive into after the “Game of Thrones” TV show.  Don’t get too connected to characters because no one is safe in Mytica.  Rhodes constructs a fascinating world that provides you with characters that you want to root for in the beginning and curse at the end.

Recommended by: Brandi Smits, Youth Services Manager

Posted in: Young Adult Fiction

Fighting With My Family

by Stephen Merchant

Based on the true story of WWE Women’s Superstar Paige and her family, this movie was not only funny, but it “wrestled”  with deeper themes that were thoughtfully crafted throughout. Even with all of its predictability, the film still felt uniquely itself and kept me engaged with the authentic nature of the protagonist and the complexity of their family dynamic. Vince Vaughn also continues to shine in more authoritative roles, giving a realistic portrayal of the coach.

Rated PG-13 for crude and sexual material, language throughout, some violence and drug content.

Recommended by: Lisa Stemmons, Patron Services Clerk

Posted in: Movies/TV

Saving Mr. Banks

by John Lee Hancock

The story of how Walt Disney convinced difficult and uncooperative author PL Travers to allow him to bring her character, Mary Poppins, to the big screen. This is my go-to film when a patron asks me for a suggestion. It has a little something for everyone; a darker, more serious story about how Ms. Travers grew up, witty and humorous exchanges between Ms. Travers and the staff at Disney as they all navigate how to successfully create a Mary Poppins film, and a fascinating look behind the scenes at how one of the most beloved children’s films of all time was created.

Rated PG-13 for thematic elements including some unsettling images.

Recommended by: Ian Lashbrook, Digital Services Manager

Posted in: Movies/TV