Ryan RYAN
Ryan is actually a fairy who lives for random acts of kindness and wildflowers. She judges books by their covers and is always in the mood for a good tear-jerking read. When not in the most vibrant and absurd of outfits, Ryan can be found painting denim jackets and writing books alongside her very quirky (and very loud) cats. Ultimately what Ryan wants to do while on this earth is love people and revel in the beauty that can be found in the seemingly insignificant moments.
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Something New: Tales from a Makeshift Bride By Lucy Knisley Cover Image
$25.99
ISBN: 9781626722491
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: First Second - May 3rd, 2016

I love this author. The thing is, regardless of what she is talking about, Lucy Knisley really brings to light all the comical, strange, and frankly sometimes screwed up mindsets people have about important commitments and endeavors, like having a baby - or getting married. I chose to read Something New because I just so happen to be getting married, and trust me - I could use some comedic relief. Surprisingly, though there were funny moments to be sure, most of what I gained from this graphic novel was the realization that I wasn't alone. I gained solidarity with Lucy Knisley, as we both have had to maneuver thorough the ridiculous persecutions that I feel many brides have to endure upon the prospect of getting married. Marriages really bring the ugliness out of people. Thankfully, most of us can take that shit - and some of us even write graphic novels about it. Pick this one up if you need a new perspective - I certainly do now.


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The Natural Home: Simple, Pure Cleaning Solutions and Recipes for a Healthy House By Isabelle Louet, Sylvie Fabre (By (artist)) Cover Image
By Isabelle Louet, Sylvie Fabre (By (artist))
$22.99
ISBN: 9780316478267
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Black Dog & Leventhal - April 3rd, 2018

Picked this book as I was moving into my own place. Talk about getting your money's worth. All the solutions listed, and materials needed are incredibly insightful and to the point. Want a quick tip I learned while reading this gem? Lemons are totally underrated and can help with a whole array of potential problems. I loved this book. There is nothing more encouraging than realizing that you have the capability of solving [some] of your own problems independently (and eco friendly!). I highly recommend this book.


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Just Peachy: Comics About Depression, Anxiety, Love, and Finding the Humor in Being Sad By Holly Chisholm Cover Image
$14.99
ISBN: 9781510742000
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Skyhorse - March 19th, 2019

To tell you the truth, I will almost always flip through any comic books relating to anxiety, depression, or really anything burdening that almost all of us go through. This one was worth the flip. This woman gets the shit of dealing with both the mental and physical obstacles of life. One of the best things that I got from reading this book was hope. Other gems I discovered were a handful of helpful resources when dealing with anxiety and depression, and validity. Bless this author, as I am sure this book will bless you as well.


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The Ten Thousand Doors of January By Alix E. Harrow Cover Image
$28.00
ISBN: 9780316421997
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Redhook - September 10th, 2019

The pacing of this book reminded me of a sentimental classic book, with beautifully descriptive words and a carefully crafted plot that felt almost leisurely in its attention to details. This book was a perfect escape for me, just as the writer intended, I'm sure. As it turns out, it is not one, but three stories. One, of a cowardly, well behaved girl who breaks free of her cage, another of two lovers who would literally cross between worlds to be reunited, and the third of a poetic and self-reflective narrator who won't spoil any endings, but merely make you curious of them.


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Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos By Lucy Knisley, Lucy Knisley (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Lucy Knisley, Lucy Knisley (Illustrator)
$19.99
ISBN: 9781626728080
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: First Second - February 26th, 2019

I felt as if I read this book three different times, for three different reasons. At first, I devoured this book for its humor and clever wit when describing one woman's terrifying journey into motherhood. I read it the second time for the blunt and informative information on woman's bodies, the history of pregnancy and other things that frankly were not fully taught to me growing up. And the third time I read it for the story told in pictures. I loved this book. There are too many reasons to recommend it- so you should just pick it up.


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Echo North By Joanna Ruth Meyer Cover Image
$17.99
Email or call for price.
ISBN: 9781624147159
Published: Page Street Kids - January 15th, 2019

Um, you need to read this. If you’re at all a fan of fairy tales, or beautiful writing, or thought-provoking plots, then PLEASE pick up this book! My friend gave this to me, assuring me that I would devour this book and read it in one sitting... I did. The main character develops into the amazing queen of a woman that she was born to be, and the romance in this book wasn’t cliché, which is rare for YA (sorry guys). The fairy tales referenced will sound familiar, but - just as you think you know what is going on - the story will suddenly shift and you’ll be beside yourself in suspense and shock!


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Dandy Lion: Black Dandy and Street Style By Shantrelle P. Lewis Cover Image
$35.00
ISBN: 9781597113892
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Aperture - May 30th, 2017

Thank God there are fearless people in this world better dressed than me! I'm both envious and inspired, as I am reminded that there are so many more styles to learn about and discover. I love Dandy Lion for all those reasons in fact; it gave me the opportunity to be inspired and learn more about those of us who dare to stand out. This book is tremendously fun to flip through and read. I hope you find the courage to pick it up and make some daring fashion statements of your own.


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Cake: A Cookbook By Maira Kalman, Barbara Scott-Goodman Cover Image
$25.00
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ISBN: 9781101981542
Published: Penguin Press - April 10th, 2018

I adore Maira Kalman. She has a way of capturing the world that is both witty and tragic. By pulling from her life, and the lives of others, she effortlessly makes even the most mundane objects or topics suddenly more personal. Lucky for us, she has written and illustrated this cookbook, making sure that each recipe has a personal touch. Get lost in this cookbook, and then once you've found yourself again, perhaps you will find the inspiration to make one of these delicious cakes.


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How New York Breaks Your Heart By Bill Hayes Cover Image
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ISBN: 9781635570854
Availability: Out of Print
Published: Bloomsbury USA - February 13th, 2018

My gosh. The images in this book will transport you to moments you can relive again and again thanks to such honest photography. New York is a magical city, so it stands to reason that the people in such a city would be magical too. What caught my attention are the stories in each of these people’s faces, the history, the pain... the love. When looking at photography of people I usually find myself being brought into a reality I will never understand, or one I know too well. Enjoy this book, as it will inevitably break your heart.


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The Art of Hand Lettering for Beginners: Beautiful Projects and Essential Techniques By Joanna Muñoz, Brooke Robinson (Foreword by) Cover Image
By Joanna Muñoz, Brooke Robinson (Foreword by)
$19.99
ISBN: 9781641522106
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Rockridge Press - December 18th, 2018

As someone who is always on the hunt for the next best thing for hand lettering and calligraphy, I really enjoyed this newer guide book! The biggest sell for me was the section in which they simply show you various fonts for the alphabet. Most other lettering books I have found assume you have a library of fonts ready and accessible in your brain and you don’t need anymore help! This is just not the case! So grab this book if you are like me and need just a little more assistance. Chock-full of helpful tips and walkthroughs, this book may be just the right pick for you.


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The Road to Ever After By Moira Young Cover Image
$25.99
ISBN: 9781250117298
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Feiwel & Friends - November 14th, 2017

This book was phenomenal. I love that I bought this book for myself to read a year earlier- not realizing that it took place near the holidays anyway.
It was a sentimental, daring, and overall non cliché winter read.
I recommend it for those of us who look for books that contain a little bit of magic, as well as a full cast of well developed characters that make you want to go out and find these people in real life.


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A Semi-Definitive List of Worst Nightmares By Krystal Sutherland Cover Image
$11.99
ISBN: 9780399546600
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers - September 4th, 2018

This book looks at a variety of mental illnesses, displaying an array of characters struggling with everything from phobias to suicidal tendencies. With the clever use of humor and the occasional emotional breakthrough, this story dares to show readers that though the demons they face might be vicious, there is still hope. Read this book if you are in need of the affirmation that you can overcome, because you can.


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Big Sticker Book of Bugs (The Big Book Series) By Yuval Zommer Cover Image
$14.95
ISBN: 9780500651346
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Thames & Hudson - October 17th, 2017

This sticker book is AMAZING! See through stickers that are reusable?! Are you kidding me? Plus the illustrations are some of my favorite. Fun, fun, fun! Engaging activities that help you learn more about those fascinating insects that color our world.


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Time for Bed, Miyuki By Roxane Marie Galliez, Seng Soun Ratanavanh (Illustrator) Cover Image
$18.95
ISBN: 9781616897055
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Princeton Architectural Press - September 18th, 2018

This book is SO beautiful. If you are needing a sentimental book to sweep you away from the busy harshness of being an adult, I recommend this book.


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The Flight of Swans By Sarah McGuire Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781512440270
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Carolrhoda Books (R) - October 1st, 2018

This book has the weight and the potential to reinforce and give hope to anyone who has felt the fight for their lives needing to be redeemed and renewed. The women in this book left me breathless. They were some of the strongest female characters I have encountered within the world of fiction thus far. What a time in my life to stumble upon this book and feel myself encouraged because of it. This book may have been intended for those of us younger in age- but I personally believe this books should be recommended for children and adults alike.


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Humans of New York By Brandon Stanton Cover Image
$29.99
ISBN: 9781250038821
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: St. Martin's Press - October 15th, 2013

This was such a fulfilling book. I loved how the photographer was able to capture the many sides of humanity. If you ever find yourself needing a gentle nudge and reminder that beauty still exists in this messy, broken world -- I recommend this title.


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The Liszts By Kyo Maclear, Júlia Sardà (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Kyo Maclear, Júlia Sardà (Illustrator)
$16.99
ISBN: 9781770494961
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Tundra Books - October 4th, 2016

A List of Reasons of Why You Should Buy this Book:
1. The illustrations are FANTASTIC (one of my favorites)
2. The themes are touching and still relevant in this busy world
3. Wes Anderson would want to make movies about these characters
4. The subtle humor is 10/10
5. Who doesn't love a good list?

 


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An Enchantment of Ravens By Margaret Rogerson Cover Image
$19.99
ISBN: 9781481497589
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Margaret K. McElderry Books - September 26th, 2017

This exquisite book was a refreshing and intriguing read. Never before had I read something that goes into depth on the confines that both immorality and vanity present, especially for fairy folk. I also deeply enjoyed the main character's views on the world around her as a painter- because it was entirely accurate and transported me into her world immediately. This book is a delicious and gratifying fictional snack, and I'm sure you'll enjoy reading it.


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The Sloth Who Slowed Us Down By Margaret Wild, Vivienne To (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Margaret Wild, Vivienne To (Illustrator)
$16.99
ISBN: 9781419731952
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Abrams Books for Young Readers - August 14th, 2018

Oh sweet babies! This book is absolutely adorable AND heartfelt AND cute and... just read it. Seriously. You'll cry tears of joy as this slow, patient, moss covered sloth reminds us all what is important in this life, and draws us back to the importance of sloooooowing down.


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Incarceron By Catherine Fisher Cover Image
$11.99
ISBN: 9780142418529
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Firebird - February 8th, 2011

I re-read this book recently that served as a huge inspiration for me when I was a teenager. Reading it a second time was well worth the effort, as the world that Catherine Fisher built was both intricate and disturbing. It would seem humanity continually tries to create their own perfections- their own attempts at making a god. However, as history both in real life and within fiction would show, these attempts at perfection continually fail. Incarceron is no exception. What a terrible and beautiful reminder that the very nature of humanity is broken and wanting. The question remains, is there still hope and redemption in spite of it?


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The Book of Colors By Raymond Barfield Cover Image
$16.00
ISBN: 9781609531157
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Unbridled Books - May 12th, 2015

I was taken away by the soft authenticity of this book. The Book of Colors sits in between the tension of both death and life; allowing you to realize that the two bring relief in their own ways. This bittersweet story serves as a reminder and a celebration of what comes with living life.


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The Little Gardener By Emily Hughes Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781912497997
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Flying Eye Books - July 3rd, 2018

Emily Hughes is one of my favorite illustrators and this book, also written by her, does a beautiful job capturing the heart of the pictures she creates. Pick this book up if you fancy yourself wanting to be reminded of the sweetness of life, and the power of tending to hope.


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Just Kids By Patti Smith Cover Image
$16.99
ISBN: 9780060936228
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Ecco - November 2nd, 2010

Patti Smith had infused each page of this book with poetry. How can one person see the world in such an intense and beautiful light? My gosh. There are sentences which have made an imprint on my heart. I feel the weight of her words even now, and know I will not forget the things she wrote, nor will I forget the time in my life when I read something so unapologetic and raw.


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What I Leave Behind By Alison McGhee Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781481476560
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books - May 15th, 2018

This book was a breath of fresh air. As much as I could explain to you why, I will simply quote one of my favorite lines of advice from this powerful book:
"Don't let the bastards get you down."


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Mighty Jack By Ben Hatke Cover Image
$14.99
ISBN: 9781626722644
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: First Second - September 6th, 2016

Woo hoo! Wanna read a book about a home schooled girl who can sword fight and is altogether fearless?! Well look no further! How about a mysterious and mute little sister who understands a magical green dragon? Your search is over. Still not doing it for you? Well, what if I told you all of this fits into a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk and will have you hungry and needing to read more?! That's what I thought. Check out this book and prepare yourself for a good time.


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Train I Ride By Paul Mosier Cover Image
$6.99
ISBN: 9780062455741
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: HarperCollins - April 3rd, 2018

If only this book existed when I was in middle school. This beautiful and surprising novel is packed full of thought provoking and memorable quotes, as well as characters you want to adopt as your own friends and family. Read it as a child, read it as an adult. Regardless of what time you read it, you will undoubtedly find yourself moved as you remember that it is never too late to experience the hope of redemption.


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Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths By Graham Annable, Graham Annable (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Graham Annable, Graham Annable (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9781626725614
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: First Second - April 10th, 2018

"I thought sloths were lazy."
"We're content. There's no need to move much when you're content. But I am not content." -Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths

(This is all you need to know about this amazing book and it's amazing sloths that will have you laughing out loud and feeling better about life.)


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Fahrenheit 451: A Novel By Ray Bradbury Cover Image
$17.00
ISBN: 9781451673319
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Simon & Schuster - January 10th, 2012

The first time I read this book, it took me three days because my best friend and I decided to read it out loud to each other. It was three days well spent, let me tell you. And at what point did my friend and I realize we had stumbled upon a literary gem? It was when we came across the word cacophony. Read this book if you fancy yourself needing to remember just how powerful the written word is; and may you endeavor to resist cacophony.


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The Outsiders By S. E. Hinton Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9780140385724
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Speak - September 1st, 1988

I felt like I met new family members reading this book. Each person described to me, became someone whose hopes and dreams became my own. That, I think, is why all the events that occurred while I read this book hit me so hard. This book is personal, as it was written by the author from a place of venerability and witnessed injustice; further becoming apparent to me as the reader- that I was reading something that had weight. I love the characters in this book, and am sure you will as well, if you pick up a copy.


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The Rabbit Listened By Cori Doerrfeld, Cori Doerrfeld (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Cori Doerrfeld, Cori Doerrfeld (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9780735229358
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Dial Books - February 20th, 2018

One of the most profound things I discovered when going through trauma in my life is that it is okay NOT to be okay. Another insight that brought me just as much freedom was the discovery that one of the most loving things you can do for someone experiencing pain is simply offer to listen. This beautiful picture book offers those two truths in the format that is accessible to children and adults alike, and that is why I love it.


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Snow & Rose By Emily Winfield Martin Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9780553538182
Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days
Published: Random House Books for Young Readers - October 10th, 2017

There are some books that you pull off the shelf, and the only way to describe the feeling you get while reading them is- magical. I fully believe this book contains a magic that comes out through the beautifully constructed sentences and whimsical illustrations. Never before have I been inspired to be the owner of a library that carries no books, or found myself wanting to know more about the characteristics of woodland mushrooms. If you feel the need to get lost in a book, I strongly suggest this one.


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The Book of Pearl By Timothee de Fombelle Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9780763691264
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Candlewick - February 6th, 2018

This book is . . . magic. From the very first page it completely transported me. I have read very few books that so beautifully capture the bitter sweetness that comes with living life. I found myself crying one moment reading about the impact of death and loss, and the next I was exclaiming in joy for the triumph of life and hope. This book takes you back and forth from fantasy to real life, as it should. I feel more often then not, we as humans are caught between the tug of what feels impossible or 'fantasy like', and then what we deem to be more realistic. This book is honest, and I would highly recommend it for anyone who is in the mood for contemplating how one could live between what seems impossible to attain, and what actually is.