A collection of library staff recommendations. See what we're reading, and maybe find a new favorite book!
Want to recommend a book? Submissions can be made by filling out our Suggest a Purchase form.
The book opens with a good old fashioned New England Christmas!
- Georgia M.
A New England classic with some seriously wintr'y bits. And then go watch all the film adaptations! Or catch a train to nearby Concord and visit Orchard House, Home of the Alcotts.
- Enid K.
It’s an intriguing murder mystery! It’s historical fiction, highlighting racial prejudices inflicted upon Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest following WWII! And it occurs in winter! Highly recommend. Cannot advise you about the movie.
- Jen M.
This book is filled with cozy descriptions, the characters are loveable and well-developed, and the plot centers around a series of adoring, tight-knit, messy, chosen families.
- Clark G.
For a book dealing with the German occupation of Guernsey during WWII, it's shockingly uplifting -- and a wonderful, warmly-told testament to the power of literature and the strength of human connection during dark times. I snagged my old copy from my parents' house during Thanksgiving, and I can't wait to reread it this winter.
- Nicole K.
Published in 1865 by an American, Mary Mapes Dodge, this is the charming story of a young Dutch boy, Hans Brinker, living in early 19th century Netherlands. Hans hopes to win the Silver Skates in an ice skating race on the canal. During the race Hans stops to help a friend to win instead. Hans' sister Gretel does win the girls Silver Skates. This story of a generous boy portrayed in the cultural and historical background of the Netherlands remains popular even until today, The most recent film version played in 2020.
- Wanda A.
This poem is the quintessential portrait of winter by Pulitzer Prize wining poet, Robert Frost....the darkness of a winter night, the beauty of deep snow, the quiet solitude...reaching to one's depth and the exigency which calls of "promises to keep."
- Wanda A.
If you want a little nostalgia, this children's book is a beautiful holiday read. Full of snow, hope, and magic, it's a wonderful way to start a new year.
- Leea S.
A fairy tale-like wilderness survival novel about two children hiking through a mountain pass in the Swiss Alps to visit their grandparents. On the return trip, snow starts to fall; the two children become distracted and then disoriented and find that they've missed the pass and are on a glacier with no trail or path in sight.
- Karen B.
What better way to spend a snowy day than to curl up with a book of poems? Not to mention, Robert Frost has some pretty cozy poems about winter itself! Perfect!
- Kellyn J.
A fun, easy read with quirky characters. Looking for something light but engaging? This is the murder mystery for you!
- Kellyn J.
Short and sweet, this is another easy read for a cozy day but with T. Kingfisher's brand of uniquely woven fairy tale worlds. Toadling isn't your run-of-the-mill protagonist, but she is a delight!
- Kellyn J.
Although it's not entirely winter themed, this book is perfect for getting cozy around the fire! You'll feel right at home in Green Gables as Anne has new adventures with her found family in Avonlea!
- Madeline D.
This book is a story about stories that all twine together in unexpected ways. The narrative really pulls you in and the themes of love and connection are great for the holidays!
- Hilary C.
This is a hilarious series of essays! The department store Christmas Elf story is worth reading aloud to a loved one. Boston Public Library has an audiobook version which would be great for a roadtrip!
- Sophie L.
How important is silverware presentation? As Stevens, an aging English butler, looks back on his career, the answer would appear to be that silverware is very important--it can make or break an event. But living in the 1950s, in a country still reeling from the second World War, with a new American employer who cares little for the trappings of aristocracy, our butler is growing less confident in his priorities. Taking a trip through the countryside as he looks toward the future, while being increasingly drawn into memories of the past, Stevens hopes to figure out some direction for the rest of his life. Sometimes sad, sometimes uplifting, and definitely cozy, I think this novel is a great winter break read.
- Nick A.
Creepy and eerie tales that are perfect for dark nights spent huddled round the fire.
- Paul B.
Heartbreaking and thought provoking family saga! A light on the experience of people lost in the twists and shuffle of history. If you like historical fiction - I would highly recommend. Absolute page-turner! What else can one desire on a winter day?
- Katya V.
