Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
“A heartwarming, easy read that reminded me about second chances and the choices we make.”
This Bridge Called My Back by Radical Women of Color, Cherríe Moraga, and Gloria Anzaldúa
“This book reassured me that a little brown girl from the hood matters. It is proof that my voice and my story is critical in the movement for social change. I am the revolution.”
Vegan Holiday Cooking from Candle Cafe
“A wonderful cookbook that highlights how diverse, plant-based traditions can bring us all to the same table, perfect for anyone looking to add a healthy and festive spark to their summer.”
My Name Is Emilia Del Valle by Isabel Allende
"A beautifully written historical fiction that follows Emilia as she claims her voice, her roots, and her place in a limiting world. Recommend for anyone interested in feminist themes, identity, and finding one’s voice."
Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah
“An emotional and true story of the author that highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, and that through resilience, determination, and a bit of courage you can overcome anything.”
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
“A heartwarming reminder to slow down and focus on the beauty of life and resilience we each hold.”
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
“A 10-20 minute read that I hope, as per the introduction, 'encourages you, perhaps, to live courageously with more kindness for yourself and for others.'”
The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and Douglas Carlton Abrams
“A beautiful book that brought me to tears. The friendship between the two is incomparable and left me feeling so emotional in all the good ways.”
The Dawn of Everything by David Graeber
“This book offers an insightful overview of an area of history and study that has always fascinated me: pre-historic humanity.”
Boat Baby by Vicky Nguyen
"My parents also hopped on a boat and emigrated from Vietnam to give me a better life, so it's like I got to see my family and myself reflected in the pages. Having an author articulate experiences that resonate with me is why I love books so much."
The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz
“A practical guide to personal freedom, this book shaped much of my transformative years, so finding this special mini edition with a 24K gold charm right in our SJPL collection (it's the only copy too!) felt like finding hidden gem.”