Adult

Inspiring memoir of former French Elle magazine editor Bauby, written after his stroke that left him completely paralyzed, save one eye. He transcribed his life by blinking letter-by-letter with one eye to his assistant. Truly remarkable. Now I want to see the movie.

From the beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Pardlo comes an extraordinary memoir and blistering meditation on fatherhood, race, addiction and ambition. A richly realized, deeply felt ode to one man's remarkable father, to fatherhood and to the frustrating yet redemptive ties of family that is also a scrupulous, searing examination of how manhood can be fashioned in our cultural landscape.

Especially appropriate for the holidays when many of us spend time with loved ones and reflect on our years. As Hooks explores the question “What is love?” her answers strike at both the mind and heart. In thirteen concise chapters, she examines her own search for emotional connection and society’s failure to provide a model for learning to love. By looking at “love” as a verb and not a noun, Hooks breaks down what it really means to practice love in a revolutionary way.

Why does the space program fascinate everyone around the world? When we look at space, we see how little we know as humans and realize how much we can accomplish together. Aldrin’s delightful, succinct collection of life lessons (presented with author Ken Abraham) reminds us of Seneca’s wisdom: “It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare. It is because we do not dare that things are difficult.” Highly-inspiring.

Award-winning collection of poems that explores the darker side of divisions and developments, the interstitial spaces of boonies, backstage, bathhouse, and bar. With witty banter, emotional resolve and powerful lyricism, this collection evokes all emotions and reminds us why poetry matters.

O’Conner unties the knottiest grammar tangles and displays the same lively humor that has charmed and enlightened grateful readers for years. With chapters on spelling and punctuation and fresh insights into the rights, wrongs, and maybes of English grammar and usage, this “grammarphobe’s guide to better English” offers down-to-earth explanations and plain-English solutions to the language mysteries that bedevil all of us.

Since reading Hosseini’s brilliant The Kite Runner, I make a point of devouring anything he writes. This lovely, haunting book with incredible watercolor illustrations by Dan Williams tells the moving story of a Syrian refugee fleeing with his son, and while it makes for a quick read, it will stick in your mind for days.

Do you struggle with finding satisfaction with your career? You’re not alone! Waller’s quick, easy-to-read guide supplies readers with the map they need to navigate a more fulfilling career path.

I used to love watching Deutsch’s wonderful CNBC show The Big Idea, and I was riveted to read about how Deutsch grew up with the street smarts that would ultimately help him greatly expand his father’s ad agency and sell it for a nice chunk of change. Funny and fascinating autobiography.

Ever stop and wonder why Californians order a “soda,” Ohioans get a “pop,” Bostonians request a “tonic” while Texans crave a “Coke?” Entertaining read about the differences in dialects between neighboring states. Trust me – this book is delightful, or “wicked good,” depending on where you’re from.

I am a spiritual person with a simple prayer that I recite each night, “Dear Lord – please let Oprah read one of my books, and just talk about it on her show.” Well, I may not be able to control that, but I can serve her by recommending her book to my audience. Chapters are organized by themes ranging from joy to resilience to gratitude, and the entire book illuminates the woman so many of us adore and admire: a person who has lived a life worth living, tackling life’s challenges and letting them help her serve a greater good. Sorry to gush, but I love powerful women whom little girls and boys can look up to. Oprah, thank you.

Revealing and intimate memoir of one of the 20^th (and early 21^st) century’s most enduring vocalists, written in a way that beckons you to hum one of his tunes. This book reads like a Tony Bennett song – perfect relaxation in a noisy world.

Football season has come upon us, which means it is time to watch one of my all-time sentimental favorite movies with Sonny Corleone and Lando Calrissian (er, James Caan and Billy Dee Williams): Brian’s Song. The true story of Chicago Bears Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers. They came from different parts of the country and competed fiercely for the same job. One liked to talk; the other was shy. One was white; the other black. Touching story of how they came to know each other, fight each other, and help each other. Read without tissue at your own risk (this is An Affair to Remember for guys).

In an elegant, two-color format, punctuated with intriguing drawings, this book poses hundreds of questions ranging from practical to maddening, moral to hilarious – which, if read alone, inspire self-exploration; if shared, spark fascinating discussions at gatherings, dinner parties or meetings.

As one reader told me, “a very unusual book, to say the least.” Insanely imaginative suspense that will keep you guessing the entire way – and you won’t be able to put it down.