Must Reads of 2021
Adult Fiction
The House on the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
A Man Called Ove by Frederik Backman
The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal
The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa
Middle Grade Fiction
When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller
The Wizards of Once by Cressida Cowell
The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair by Amy Makechnie
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
The School for Whatnots by Simon Orpana
Picture Books
A Rose for Grandma by Christiana Egi
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho
I Really Want the Cake by Simon Philip
Nia and the New Free Library by Ian Lendler
The Witch's Cat and the Cooking Catastrophe by Kirstie Watson
Little Green Donkey by Anuska Allepuz
Best of December
Ellie and the Harpmaker
by Hazel Prior
Ellie wasn't sure why she ended up at the harp barn, but even though she promised her husband she would return the harp and never go back, she's drawn to the harpmaker and the harp he's given her.
This complex adult contemporary literary fiction book offers rare insights into abuse and love within the cozy nest of music and craftsmanship.
Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death
by M.C. Beaton
Agatha Raisin moves to a little village to retire, but she intends to make the most of country life, starting with winning the local baking contest. She can't predict that her excellent quiche will poison anyone though, and soon she finds herself tangled in a mystery that, if left unsolved, could mean more innocent victims.
This book has convinced me that I like cozy mysteries. Agatha is such a funny character, and while this story brings up a few cringe moments, it's done with a certain poise that makes it fun to read. This book and series are total fallbacks when I need a good adventure that I don't have to take too seriously.
I'm Trying To Love Spiders
by Bethany Barton
Spiders can be a bit hard to love, but there are so many good things about them. This interactive book perfectly captures the way it feels to try to overcome a fear.
Have You Seen Elephant?
by David Barrow
One boy searches for an elephant. He keeps struggling to find the elephant even though the critter isn't all that good at hiding.
This cozy picture book is a brilliant expression of how to be kind and encouraging rather than being brutally honest.
Boats for Papa
by Jessixa Bagley
Every chance he gets, Buckley sends out a boat for his papa, reminding him that he loves him and can't wait for him to come home. But when will Papa come? Buckley gets a nasty shock one day when he discovers his boats never make it to Papa, but through that, he's able to understand and heal.
This one was a bit hard to read, but totally worth it. A beautiful expression of love and loss.
The School for Whatnots
by Simon Orpaha
One day, rich parents realize they don't want their children associating with the common riffraff, so an enterprising company comes up with the perfect solution: perfectly nice and polite androids called Whatnots. Max has spent his whole childhood with these robots without realizing it, but one day, his favorite Whatnot, Josie, disappears, and he discovers the whole system. He wants to keep his friend, but the company will fall apart if anyone discovers the truth.
This fascinating story explores concepts of privilege and poverty and what makes a person valuable. While this could just be a fun story about robots and secrets, when you look a bit closer, it brings up all sorts of wild social implications.
Best of November
King Raven trilogy
by Stephen R. Lawhead
Stephen R. Lawhead has managed to take a legend and turn it into historical fiction. This trilogy follows Bran as he grows from a frivolous youth into Robin Hood, avenging his father and saving his people in the process. The plot is about what you'd expect of a Robin Hood retelling, but the detailed research and plethora of linguistic and historical facts is so well done that I can't help but applaud this one.
Little Green Donkey
by Anuska Allepuz
A certain little donkey does not like trying new foods. He only wants grass, grass, grass. But one day, he turns green. If he can't face his fears and try something new, he might never regain his natural color.
The ending of this one makes me chuckle every time. This would be a fun book to read when encouraging kids to try new foods, but it's enjoyable to read for any reason.
The Witch's Cat and the Cooking Catastrophe
by Kirstie Watson
The lovely witch has gone out, and the cat finds a dusty old cookbook. He has a marvelous idea! He'll make her a nice surprise. Admittedly, the lovely witch has told him never to mess with her magic dust, but just a pinch won't hurt ... right?
I just adore this silly cat and his incredibly expressive face. This is a lovely book for the spooky season, but I enjoy reading it anytime I need a smile.
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers
by Renni Browne
As an editor, I've read quite a few books on editing over the years. This one has advice I haven't found very often, and while I don't agree with everything the author says, I appreciate that it reminds me to think about manuscripts in different ways. If you're a writer, I recommend picking up this book. You might save your editor a lot of eye-rolling.
We Hunt the Flame
by Hafsah Faizal
Zafira and Nasir find themselves competing against each other to find the one thing that can save the kingdom from the cursed forest of Arz. They must conquer desert and water and supernatural forces without losing sight of one another, but will it be enough to save their country?
Whenever someone asks me about romance books, I always say I don't really like them—except We Hunt the Flame. This is the ultimate enemies to lovers slow burn romance. It integrates longing and desire perfectly with the heart-racing adventure. Even if you don't typically like fantasy romance, I suggest giving this one a try.
The Travelling Cat Chronicles
by Hiro Arikawa
Satoru is looking for a new home for his cat. He can't keep her any longer, but he doesn't want to leave Nana with just anyone. As he travels from friend to friend, he has the chance to reminisce about life and all he's loved and lost.
Just looking at the title of this one makes me want to get a tissue. It sounds slow, and it is, but the writing is so compelling, reminding readers that everyone needs companionship, whether human or feline. An absolutely gorgeous read.
Best of October
Looking for Sleep
by Georgiana Deutsch
It turns out sleep is hard to find when you're looking for it. In this cozy picture book, a little wolf searches high and low for the illusive slumber he reportedly needs. His friends try to help, but the more they shout and run and turn up the lights, the harder it is to find the sleep!
This one is such a perfect bedtime story. The style is smooth despite the silly concept, making it great for relaxing.
We Are (Not) Friends
by Anna Kang
These two critters are best friends, which means there's no room for another friend, right? Sometimes three is too many, but friendship can be big enough for a few extras.
I appreciate the way this book shows that you can prioritize one friend without leaving out another. It might take a bit of compromise, but when all the critters admit what they're feeling, they can forgive each other. The ending is also super silly, so don't stay just for the lesson.
Nia and the New Free Library
by Ian Lendler
When the library blows away in a storm, it starts to look like no one will have any more books to read. While the rest of the town is debating and protesting, Nia comes up with a peaceful solution that involves everyone.
While there's certainly a time for debating and protesting, I love that this book points out that community and individual connections are always more satisfying.
The Thingity-Jig
by Kathleen Doherty
Bear finds the perfect thing! But it's too hard to get it home by himself, so he invents another thingity to help out, but that one doesn't get him all the way, so he has to keep inventing. Eventually, he creates the most eye-popping invention of them all, but can he get it all home?
This silly book is full of fun words and has a bouncy rhythm designed to make read-alouds extra fun.
How To Say Goodbye in Robot
by Natalie Standiford
Two teens might be the loneliest people in their grade, but perhaps they can be lonely together. Beatrice is dealing with her own family troubles, but she makes a connection with Ghost Boy when he calls in to a late night radio talk show. Like the ghost he is, though, he has a troubled past and an uncertain future. Beatrice wants to help, but maybe it would be better if they both just disappear.
This one isn't exactly a Halloween book, but it's got those spooky vibes. It's unsettling in some ways, but that mood is like no other. The details in this one are stunning, and the narration is haunting.
Phoebe Dupree Is Coming to Tea!
by Linda Ashman
Abby has the perfect tea party prepared: all her plans are perfect, but if the littlest thing goes wrong, will it ruin the whole day?
As someone who loves to plan and organize, I completely empathize with Abby when she struggles to change her plans. I love the gentle way this book points out that, while plans are great, flexibility can help turn a good plan into a great day.
Best of September
I Really Want the Cake
by Simon Philip
The title is pretty self-explanatory. I also love cake, but I don't always love rhyming picture books. This one, however, really takes the cake. The rhymes are clever, and the plot is solid while the illustrations are silly and sweet. This one is perfect for an afternoon read when you just want to have fun.
Donut Feed the Squirrels
by Mika Song
Norma and Belly have smelled the most wondrous smell: donuts! Unfortunately, the vendor doesn't take acorns as currency, so these silly squirrels must stretch their creativity to find a way to make their donut dreams come true.
This one is a perfect read for youngsters just getting ready to take on chapter books. It's silly and clever and perfect for reading time.
Eyes that Kiss in the Corners
by Joanna Ho
This little girl doesn't quite look like the kids at school, although they're all beautiful. Instead, she is like her family and ancestors, and they're beautiful as well, for many reasons.
This book is absolutely gorgeous. It doesn't have much by way of plot, but it's so full of affirmations and lovely illustrations that it's worth the read no matter what shape or color your eyes are.
Ten Thousand Tries
Amy Makechnie
Golden Maroni is all set to become one of the best soccer players in the world. With his mom and dad coaching, he's sure to make it to the top. The one thing getting in his way is his dad's chronic illness, ALS. Golden is sure that if he wins all his soccer games and if Dad just tries hard enough, the disease won't be fatal, but not everyone is so sure.
Oh yes, Amy Makechnie is on here again! New favorite author? I love the way this story tackles a really hard topic with grace, yet it doesn't get bogged down in the sadness. There are challenges and adventures and a lot of heart. It also taught me a lot about ALS and how to deal with grief.
Bubble Trouble
by Margaret Mahy
Watch out for bubbles: if one scoops up the baby, you'll be in for a real adventure.
This one is old but classic, full of tongue-twisting rhymes and silly escapades.
Best of August
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise
by Dan Gemeinhart
Coyote and her dad Rodeo live in a refurbished bus, going wherever the wind takes them, meeting people and having adventures. But when Coyote learns that the park near her house is about to be torn down, she has to do the impossible: she has to convince Rodeo to take her back to where his wife passed away and to remember. Coyote gets a lot of help along the way, but ultimately, it's family that wins out in this breathtaking adventure.
So, that's the plot, but that's not the reason you want to read this book: Coyote Sunrise is a real character, and I can't wait for you to meet her.
Tiny Dancer
by Siena Cherson Siegel
Siena is a dancer, and consequently, she has to work extremely hard and deal with a lot of pressure. How much pressure is too much before she can't keep pursuing her dreams?
This monochromatic graphic novel gives us a remarkable inside look at what it's like to grow up inside performance culture. I gave up on ballet quite a few years ago, but like many girls, I've always adored dance. In some ways, this book brought some regrets, but it also reminded me that we can be whole even if our dreams change.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor is pretty happy as an office worker. She follows a schedule and rhythms and faithfully calls her unpleasant mother every Wednesday. But she has yet to find love. Well! She has plans to change that, but perhaps she's not quite cut out for romance after all.
If you love a good twist, try this one out. Eleanor is such a quirky character, and she finds herself in all sorts of scrapes, but the ending is so worth it.
Best of July
Dragons and Marshmallows
by Asia Citro
Zoey's mom takes care of lost pets and unusual animals. When Zoey finds a particularly strange creature while her mom is away, it's up to her to take care of it. First, how to feed a baby dragon. It loves marshmallows, but it turns out you can't just feed the baby sugary snacks. What's Zoey to do?
This is such a fun illustrated chapter book. It has nods toward STEM topics and a hint that growing up and being responsible are both good ideas. I love the creativity and understanding in this story and highly recommend it for early elementary readers who are just venturing into chapter books.
Under the Whispering Door
by T.J. Klune
Wallace was a grump in life, but he still kind of expected more than two people to show up to his funeral. He has a hard time accepting that he is dead, but when he makes it to the coffee shop between worlds, he discovers the healing and patience that he never knew in life.
If you've ever wanted a ghost story that can make you cry, pick this one up. T.J. Klune is super popular right now for The House on the Cerulean Sea (as he should be). This one is less of an adventure, but has all the right feels. This one is perfect for a rainy day with a warm cup of tea.
The Starless Sea
by Erin Morgenstern
This book does have a plot, something about Zachary finding a really special book, escaping a secret society, and adventuring in a vast unknown world, but if you're reading this story for the plot, you're going to be disappointed. As with Morgenstern's other books, this one is really mostly atmosphere, but what an atmosphere it is. Many books have made me cry, but this is the first one that made me weep when I reached the end and realized it was over and couldn't keep reading it forever. I just wanted to crawl back inside and read it again. It's incredibly magical and so cozy.
Best of June
My Sister Daisy
by Adria Karlsson
When Daisy was born, everyone thought she was a boy, but Daisy knew. Her brother finds it hard to accept that he has a sister instead of a brother, but with kindness and understanding, the family grows together and learns what it means to be supportive and kind.
This cozy picture book is a great resource for families trying to help siblings understand their transgendered brother or sister.
The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair
by Amy Makechnie
(Friends, I've been wanting to do a feature on this book for a while. It's in my top time favorites, and if it isn't on your bookshelf or at your local library, it should be)
Gaysie Cutter is a weird one—if moving from the city to live at Grandma's house while her mom is getting special care at the tiny clinic in the country isn't enough, Guinevere has to get used to all sorts of unusual people, not the least of which is her new piano teacher, the boys next door, and her very own cow. With all this going on, it's no wonder Guin and her little sister barely have time to think about Mom's dementia ... but it's still there.
I love so many things about this book. It's full of adventure and thrilling mysteries, but at its heart, it speaks to the loneliness everyone feels when they lose someone they love to illness, in this case, a mental illness. In one way, Mom is still there, but in the more important ways, she's completely gone. There's so much truth wrapped in this little book, but it's so digestible, with a bright writing style and so many humorous moments. This one is on my all-time-favorites shelf, and I hope you'll pick it up sometime too.
I'll Fly Away
by Rudy Fransisco
I know poetry isn't everybody's thing, but I suggest you give this one a try anyway. The poems are short and sweet yet so full of emotion and heart, it's hard to put this one down.
The Witch Boy
by Molly Knox Ostertag
Everyone expects Aster to grow up with the shapeshifting magic of his fathers and brothers, but Aster can't seem to shift. Instead, he can do hedge magic, something only girls can do. He's caught sneaking into witch classes one too many times and is ostracized by his family, but when a lurking danger comes, Aster and his own skills might be the only thing that can stop it.
Of course, this is a pretty obvious allegory for gender identity, but it's done so well that you can't help but root for Aster. The illustrations, as per usual, are beautifully done, and the characters well-crafted for such a short graphic novel. I was thrilled to pick up the sequels as well.
My Lady Jane
by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows
I could feature just about any book by Hand, Ashton, and Meadows, and you'd get a similar review: A young woman, one you might think you're familiar with, finds herself in a mix of historical circumstances and a bit of unexpected magic and has to find a way to prove herself and defeat a sinister enemy, usually to humorous results. In this case, we're following Lady Jane Grey as she escapes plots and searches for true love despite her arranged marriage.
The plot is much less significant than the writing style, that always has me laughing out loud. While these books certainly deal with some touchy topics, they manage to bring just enough satire to make old stories come to life. Thank you, narrators.
Fox & Chick
by Sergio Ruzzier
There are some duos destined to go down in history: Frog and Toad; Elephant and Piggie; Unicorn and Yeti. I humbly suggest adding Fox and Chick to this lineup of easy readers that never fail to amuse me. Fox is practical and patient, which is helpful since Chick is incorrigibly impulsive and enthusiastic. No matter what these two get into, it's sure to bring a laugh, both for teachers and the young students who can finally read actual stories. There are a number of Fox and Chick books out there, usually arriving in a package of three stories. I've read all of them and would do it again.
Best of May
Have You Seen a Flower?
by Shawn Harris
A unique book, Have You Seen a Flower focuses on all the ways we can take in the world and its many wonders. I love the brilliant illustrations and imaginative theme.
A Rose for Grandma
by Cristiana Egi
Annie's grandma has started acting a bit strange, and soon the family discovers that Grandma has Alzheimer's. Although hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa is different now, Annie learns that Grandma still loves her, even if she can't remember her name. This beautiful book is a perfect way to introduce children to the concept of dementia in a gentle yet straightforward way. The story has such a cozy ending, but the facts are laid out really well to make the situation less scary and to remove some of the stigma around dementia and mental health.
Little Red Fox Has Feelings
by Didi Dragon
Little Red Fox has discovered that she has feelings, and she's excited to show them off. Even though she can't always control how she feels, she can control how she reacts. This adorable story follows little fox through her day as she feels different feelings and makes choices. I love the crayon-style illustrations and the joyful narration style. Will there be a sequel soon???
Best of April
Although April is usually my A-spec reading challenge month, I found these gems as well
Daughter of Smoke and Bone
by Laini Taylor
Karou is a talented young artist who lives in remarkable circumstances, traveling the world via secret doors to collect teeth for her unusual master. But the doors are closing, and the only clue she can find are scorched handprints. Karou and her best friend not only have to deal with the everyday world of growing up, but they're suddenly thrust into a battle between chimera and angelic forces as well as an unexpected but delightful romance. Honestly, friends, this book is so magical and poetic. I wish the sequels had been as enchanting, although I'll hold out an honorable mention for Cake and Puppets, the accompanying novella.
My Friend Eepworm
by Corinne Goyette
Sometimes it's hard to be alone, but a little eepworm can be just the right kind of friend to hold and fidget with. This cozy little story reminds kids, whether neurotypical or not, that they don't have to be alone. I love the quirky illustrations in this one.
A Man Called Ove
by Fredrick Backman
It's been a few years since Ove's wife died, and when he loses his job, Ove loses his desire to live. But despite his attempts to end it all, his neighbors keep giving him reasons to stick around. This book made me laugh and cry so many times. It's a brilliant reminder of the power of community.
Best of March
Tarnished Are the Stars
by Rosiee Thor
Humanity is barely scraping by in this somewhat post-apocalyptic world, but things are made more complicated by the illness that infects the very water and the tyrannical rule of the Commissioner. In a land where amputation is necessary but being a cyborg is illegal, Anna has to find a way to uncover the secrets that make her own mechanical heart tick. While this YA novel is a bit rusty around the edges, the plot and characters are very compelling, and the queer representation is well done.
Secondhand Dogs
by Sara O'Leary
Shelter dogs come with a lot of backstory, but that doesn't mean they aren't capable of friendship and love. This realistic middle grade fiction follows a pack of rescued animals as they try to accept a new dog into their home, but the new guy isn't at all interested in canine companionship. I particularly liked how the dogs, though personified a bit, were always authentically animals.
How To Market a Book
by Ricardo Fayet
As a freelance editor who specializes in self-publishing, I get a lot of questions about marketing. I don't market, so I always refer my authors to this book. I'm sure it doesn't tell you everything, but it's an excellent start into the process of getting your book into the hands of people who want to read it.
The Science of Breakable Things
by Tae Keller
Natalie's mom is dealing with some mental health issues, but if Natalie can just win the science competition and get her botanist mother to see the Cobalt Blue Orchids, everything will be alright. Only, it turns out keeping an egg from breaking is harder than it looks. This book has just the right tone and the perfect number of themes to keep it interesting. I appreciate the way it treats depression and addresses both the good days and the bad.
Yes, Tae Keller shows up a lot in my book lists. I'm sure it'll happen again.
The Wizards of Once
by Cressida Cowell
The wizards and the warriors are natural enemies, so it's definitely going to be a problem when the youngest warrior princess and the head wizard's son end up on a quest to stop the witches. This middle grade fantasy has humor, passion, and a lot of the unexpected. The style is absolutely perfect for David Tennant as narrator, which I hope tells you everything you need to know.
Best of February
The Froggies Do No Want To Sleep
by Adam Gustavson
These froggies want to do a lot of things, but sleeping isn't one of them.
This quirky picture book is easy to read and includes all sorts of silly imaginative ideas. I pick this one up whenever I need a smile.
Once Upon an Eid
Edited by S.K. Ali and Aisha Saeed
This book is an anthology of short stories centered around middle-grade characters who are celebrating the Muslim holiday, Eid.
Like many anthologies, it contained some stories that I loved and some that were just OK, but it really opened my eyes to a richness and diversity of experiences. I have borrowed this line from the introduction: "books... serve as mirrors and windows, books... help kids both find themselves and meet new friends." I quote it often. It's every bit as magical as it sounds.
Like many anthologies, it contained some stories that I loved and some that were just OK, but it really opened my eyes to a richness and diversity of experiences. I have borrowed this line from the introduction: "books... serve as mirrors and windows, books... help kids both find themselves and meet new friends." I quote it often. It's every bit as magical as it sounds.
For the Collective
by Carmen Spoonemore
Individuality is spurned in the Collective, but one young leader dares to question the norms in this post-apocalyptic YA thriller.
This book made me want to get back into YA literature. While it's easy to associate it with books like The Giver and Maze Runner, For the Collective is really a unique book that made me think.
Luna Howls at the Moon
by Kristin O'Donnell Tubb
Therapy dog Luna understands her four kids better than anyone, so when they decide to run away, Luna knows it's up to her to keep them safe.
Although told from the dog's perspective, this story had exquisite insight into humanity and emotions. It book touched me deeply, and despite its unfortunate title, will definitely be a staple on my bookshelf for a long time.
When You Trap a Tiger
by Tae Keller
Lily's grandma (Halmoni, in Korean) get sick, and Lily knows that it's the tigers who to blame as her one friend drifts further into illness. This book is an emotional middle grade magical realism full of traditions, magic, family relationships, loss, and finding. The character development was beautiful, and I loved the way Korean folklore was woven in. It deals with some tough concepts, and it's really beautifully written.
Helium
by Rudy Francisco
This collection of poems captures some of the most deep elements of what it means to be human. Rudy Francisco has loved and protested, cried and laughed, and really brought together a heartfelt collection of his soul in this precious book. I love taking it out and reading just a few poems every day for a breath of beauty and perspective.
Best of January
Zoochies
by Amit Rachman
Zoochies is a creative rhyming picture book that reminds kids it's OK to do what they love, even if it isn't expected.
Why I like it: It's not often I come across a rhyming book that is really well done. I read a lot of kids' books, and trust me, they don't have to rhyme. This one, however, has an excellent sense of wordplay that helps take the serious topic of standing up for who you are despite cultural norms and makes it a fun adventure. The book is about the color of a zoochie's fur, but it's easy to make this a metaphor for race, gender expression, career expectations, and any number of other outward reflections. It's a great one for starting conversations about accepting yourself and standing up for others.
Weird Kid
by Greg Van Eekhout
Weird Kid is a humorous middle grade sci-fi book that reflects on what it means to be human.
Why I like it: Who doesn't love a funny space alien book? Although the plot itself is humorous, it reflects a deeper understanding that by showing acceptance to others, we can help shape who they are.
Cheering for the Underdog
by Alexandra Bach-Weidmuller
As the subtitle suggests, Cheering for the Underdog is a nonfiction picture book about how dog rescue works.
Why I like it: Another rhyming book, this one tackles the serious topic of why dogs are abandoned and how you can help. Written from someone who has in-depth knowledge of the rescue and adoption process, this book touches on how to care for your own dog and introduces key facts so that kids (and their families) can make informed decisions about pet adoption.
Each Kindness
by Jacqueline Woodson
A remarkably dissatisfying book, Each Kindness is a picture book that shows how failing to be kind has serious consequences.
Why I like it: While there are tons of "be kind" books out there these days, few have the weight of regret that this book carries. Many children are unhappy with the ending, and I admit I was too, but the truth is, when we fail to show kindness, we sometimes don't get a second chance.
The House on the Cerulean Sea
by T.J. Klune
The House on the Cerulean Sea is an adult fiction book that follows a social worker to an island where supernatural children are hidden away from prejudice.
Why I like it: You may have seen T.J. Klune on my favorites list before, and I'm excited to see him maturing as a writer. He got his start writing cheeky gay romances, and that influence is still prevalent in his latest novels, but this book breaks into a serious reflection on how the labels we give to children affect them. Although it's in a fantasy setting, the truth of each child's longing to be accepted and loved shines through in this lovely piece of writing.
Napoleon vs. the Bunnies
by Jenny Fox
Thanks to this picture book, I learned that Napoleon was defeated by bunnies in this little-known battle.
Why I like it: History is sometimes boring, but this book brings just the right balance of humor and fact to create a memorable story that left me curious to know more about this well-known figure.
The Stars of Whistling Ridge
by Cindy Baldwin
The Stars of Whistling Ridge is a middle-grade magical realism novel about one girl's wish and all the trouble it caused.
Why I like it: This book is absolutely winning with cover design. It is everything you'd expect from a cover and title like this: magical, mysterious, coming of age, family, and secrets. If you're wondering "what is magical realism?" pick up this book.
