Staff Picks from the Dunbar Library
April 21, 2026
Need a good book to read over summer break? We asked library staff to recommend their favorite books and they delivered! Below you'll find recommendations from a variety of genres--enjoy!
Brother Cadfael's Penance by Ellis Peters
The Cadfael series provides an interesting insight into Medieval life, culture, political upheaval, and mores. Ellis writes an intricate exploration of people and places. ... and the mysteries, of course, are brilliant. This is the last of series, start with "A Morbid Taste for Bones."
Recommended by Phil Flynn
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
An enemies-to-lovers novel about rival journalists discovering magic letters while a war of the gods rages on.
Recommended by Aaliyah Williams
That's Not How It Happened by Craig Thomas
A smart contemporary work of hollywood satire and disability advocacy. Just a fun, easy read--written by the creator/writer of How I Met Your Mother (tv series)
Recommended by Lisa Bleeke
The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow
The Everlasting is a historical fantasy about Owen, a time-travelling historian, and Sir Una, the mythical knight and subject of Owen's scholarly career. It's so hard to say more without giving away spoilers so I will leave it at that but if you like medieval vibes, lady knights, and (beautifully) heartbreaking slow burns, this one is for you!
Recommended by Anna Helmig-Sampson
Life in Parts by Brian Cranston
This shortish memoir by the Breaking Bad and Malcolm in the Middle star was a fascinating read. It's not laid out chronologically, but hops around between his childhood, student days, and acting career, held together by the premise that each vignette relates a "part" that he has played, in work or in life, and how it all relates.
Recommended by Marty Jenkins
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell
A dark, beautifully-detailed novel set in the 1550s. I loved the imagery and the slow simmer of suspense. I also learned a little bit of European history I wasn't aware of before!
Recommended by Grace Ethier
Recommended by Adam Randolph
The Creeping Shadow by Jonathan Stroud
This is a great series set in a dystopian England where "spirits" are killing people and only teenagers can see them. Fun series of 5 books (and also a Netfix series that covers book 1). Mystery and horror elements - written for ages 8-12, it is still a fun read as an adult. The twists are by no means juvenile.
Recommended by Shannon Michalak
The Riddle Master Trilogy by Patricia McKillip
The trilogy has many metaphors of life and relationship to nature. Also, how one world experiences the transfer of power from a High One to his heir. I always recommend them for those who love science fiction/fantasy.
Recommended by Chris Nimmer
King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby
Interesting and action packed story about a financial advisor trying to get his brother out of trouble with gangsters and getting drawn into it himself in order to protect his family.
Recommended by Greg Jones
The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
This book was referenced during a webinar on leadership, and it's a great quick read to give you tips to improve your motivation. The book really scratches the surface with what you might be able to accomplish by adjusting your mindset. I feel like the potential is there for significant change depending on how much you can commit to these new practices.
Recommended by Matt Shreffler
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This is a quiet yet amazing story about the power of human connection. The author quickly builds the reader's interest in each character as Theo demonstrates the power of generosity and the importance of connection and kindness.
Recommended by Leigh Duncan
More Recommendations
Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett
Heritage of Shannara series by Terry Brooks