I spent my angsty teens perusing the shelves at Kepler's. After a career in biochemistry and over a decade rasing kids full time, I now love to work with customers to find that "This is perfect!" book. My reading interests lean more toward non-fiction, though I do love a good novel, too! Mysteries, not so much. I am happiest outdoors, preferably with my family - backpacking in the Sierras is my idea of heaven!
Now one of my favorite novels of all time! Beautifully paced, uniquely structured, and stunningly written. This novel showcases the breadth of Mason's skill. A story of people and place, with both action and serenity. Halfway through the book, I was already excited to read it a second time and re-bask in his North woods! ~Carolee
I have watched these Alaskan bears for YEARS! Naturalist Fitz has poured his extensive knowledge of the bears and their habitat into this book. ~Carolee
BONUS: Watch them fish, play, and be fabulous! https://explore.org/livecams/brown-bears/brown-bear-salmon-cam-brooks-falls
A well written, beautifully structured book on such a key part of American history, The Great Migration. Narrative non-fiction at its very best! Wilkerson follows three people’s lives from their youth in the South, as they grow up under Jim Crow, and through the rest of their lives. A truly incredible book! ~Carolee
This exceptional book provided me with cognitive stepping stones to better understand folks who vote very differently than I do. A very important book to begin to understand some “red” choices, something I feel our country needs badly. An OUTSTANDING book! ~Carolee
Great characters - you will never forget Pepper!
Amazing writing - the kind that makes you read a sentence multiple times.
Terrific plot - lighter than his other novels. Just read it! ~Carolee
I have watched these Alaskan bears for YEARS! Naturalist Fitz has poured his extensive knowledge of the bears and their habitat into this book. ~Carolee
BONUS: Watch them fish, play, and be fabulous! https://explore.org/livecams/brown-bears/brown-bear-salmon-cam-brooks-falls
One of the most beautiful written books I have ever read - full pages need to be savored again & again. A wonderful story about family. The only book never to leave my Staff Favorites in the 9 years I’ve been at Kepler’s. ~Carolee
In his typical smart-funny style, Bryson tackles the summer of 1927 which had Lindbergh crossing the Atlantic, Capone ruling Chicago, Babe Ruth pursuing home run history and much more. Entertaining and educational! ~Carolee
Uncomplicated and reliably great! Plus so much information beyond recipes - which herbs go with what, prepping "how to", wine pairings, meat cut recommendations, and so much more. My copy is thoroughly food-stained from years of use! ~Carolee
Lawrence in Arabia: War, Deceit, Imperial Folly and the Making of the Modern Middle East (Paperback)
Don't be fooled by the title - much more than just T.E. Lawrence's story. A fascinating history of WWI in the Middle East as impacted by four mid-level military men from completely different parts of the war. One of my favorite history books! ~Carolee
It is hard to imagine a time when Nike wasn't a massive company, hugely successful and ubiquitous. Yet, it came so close to never getting off the ground. A fun to read memoir of how Knight founded Nike, even for non-sports fans! ~Carolee
Snappy, crisp and engaging. This well written debut novel explores the often funny, occasionally awkward cross-cultural and intergenerational dynamics. Not a dysfunctional family tale. Could be your family if you were insanely wealthy and lost it all! ~Carolee
There are a handful of books that fundamentally altered how I think about an issue. This was one of them. Pollan masterfully navigates the science, politics, ethics, history and responsibility of how and what we eat. Pollan doesn't preach, yet it is hard to not be deeply swayed. Please read this book. ~Carolee
At age twelve, Doty's life path looked grim. A chance encounter with Ruth in a magic shop changed all that. She taught him about the mind/heart connection and how to harness it. Part memoir, part science and part "how to". Great lessons we all can use to make our own lives better. A powerful read! ~Carolee
Grab a glass of your favorite spirit and sink into Edward Slingerland's wonderful exploration of some surprising ways booze has impacted humans and the development of civilization. Much of it is positive, so cheers to that! --Carolee
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Michael Pollan does it again, this time delving into the power of three plant drugs: opium, caffeine, and mescaline. In his clear and engaging prose, he explores the history, science, and his personal experience with each. Part journalism; part memoir...another fabulous book by one of my favorite authors! --Carolee
I love learning about cultures, especially from a "lived there" perspective. The first in a trilogy, this book covers Hessler's years as a Peace Corps volunteer in rural China where the Three Rivers Gorge dam was being built. I am a fan of all three books about China, but start with this one! --Carolee
Hessler’s second book explores China’s past and the present. A little more ancient history in this book, but also lots and lots of his experiences with everyday young adults who are finding their way in the modernizing society. --Carolee
Over his many years living in China, Hessler undertakes several road trips across the country mostly by rental car (what an adventure!), but also by bus and with local drivers. As always, Hessler gets to know the people and through his wonderful writing, so do you! --Carolee
After years in China. Hessler and his family moved to Egypt, just as the Arab Spring was unfolding. Once again, his friendships with local people and his passion for reporting serve up a clear and personal look at a complicated country. --Carolee
I don't surf. I am not a beach gal. I don't like to be sandy or salty. I LOVED this book! A beautifully written memoir about waves, life, and travelling across the globe to find the perfect undiscovered ride! ~Carolee