Nonfiction
Haunting Tales: Selections for Your Halloween Reading
From mysteries to supernatural stories, folklore to the macabre – we’ve got titles old & new to spark your spooky-bone this Halloween season!
Marple: Twelve New Mysteries by Agatha Christie
Legendary sleuth Jane Marple returns to solve twelve baffling cases in this brand-new collection, penned by a host of acclaimed authors skilled in the fine art of mystery and murder.
Devil House by John Darnielle
True crime writer Gague Chandler, the protagonist of Darnielle’s Devil House, jumps at the opportunity to live at the “Devil House” a building where two gruesome, possibly satanic murders took place in 1986. At once a magnetic thriller and an intriguing look at the true crime genre, Darnielle’s novel is filled with rich themes, including the slippery nature of crime reporting and the demands of the artistic process.
Thistlefoot by GennaRose Nethercott
This tale explores Slavic folklore and magical realism through the lives of estranged siblings Bellatine and Isaac Yaga who couldn’t be more different in their personalities and their mysterious abilities. When they reunite to collect a family inheritance, it’s to discover their great-great-grandmother, Baba Yaga, has left them Thistlefoot, a sentient cottage with chicken legs. This story explores the folktales surround Baba Yaga – a magical crone, hidden deep in the forests of Eastern Europe, who -depending on her mood – can be friend or foe.
Jackal by Erin A. Adams
A young Black girl goes missing in the woods outside her white rust belt town. But she’s not the first-and she may not be the last. . . Adams transcends the typical hometown mystery with an effective blend of social and supernatural terrors. The author skillfully presents changing theories about the possible humans involved as characters struggle with who to trust and navigate dreamscapes that seem increasingly real. The first-person narration draws readers in as they sympathize with the character’s plight.
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
In this tale of passion and obsession, Diana Bishop, a young scholar and a descendant of witches, discovers a long-lost and enchanted alchemical manuscript, Ashmole 782 , deep in Oxford’s Bodleian Library. Its reappearance summons a fantastical underworld, which she navigates with her leading man, vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont. Harkness has created a universe to rival those of Anne Rice, Diana Gabaldon, and Elizabeth Kostova, and she adds a scholar’s depth to this riveting tale of magic and suspense. The story continues in the All Souls Series.
Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher
Nettle & Bone is the kind of book that immediately feels like an old friend. Fairytale mythic resonance meets homey pragmatism in this utterly delightful story. It’s creepy, funny, heartfelt, and full of fantastic characters.
All the Living and the Dead: from Embalmers to Executioners, an Exploration of the People Who Have Made Death Their Life’s Work by Haley Campbell
A deeply compelling exploration of the death industry and the people–morticians, detectives, crime scene cleaners, embalmers, executioners–who work in it and what led them there. A dazzling work of cultural criticism, All the Living and the Dead weaves together reportage with memoir, history, and philosophy, to offer readers a fascinating look into the psychology of Western death.
Over My Dead Body : Unearthing the Hidden History of America’s Cemeteries by Greg Melville
Melville’s Over My Dead Body is a lively (pun intended) and wide-ranging history of cemeteries, places that have mirrored the passing eras in history but have also shaped it. Cemeteries have given birth to landscape architecture and famous parks, as well as influenced architectural styles. They’ve inspired and motivated some of our greatest poets and authors–Emerson, Whitman, Dickinson. They’ve been used as political tools to shift the country’s discourse and as important symbols of the United States’ ambition and reach. Over My Dead Body explores everything–history, sustainability, land use, and more–and what it really means to memorialize.
Local Hiking
Fall weather is upon us and it’s a great time to take a hike on one of the many trails within a few hours of Sewickley. Take a look at these titles to help you plan a fun day out on a trail.
Best Hikes Near Pittsburgh by Bob Frye
From a hike through Pymatuning State Park to see its famous spillway, to an old Indian path called the Warrior Trail, this book describes the best hikes in and around Pittsburgh, many of them never previously covered elsewhere.
50 Hikes in Western Pennsylvania : Walks and Day Hikes from the Laurel Highlands to Lake Erie by Tom Thwaites
The hiking trails of western Pennsylvania offer both novice and experienced hikers a tempting variety of natural terrain and human history. This third edition includes hikes for all tastes and abilities: introductory walks of 1-5 miles; intermediate day hikes of 5-10 miles; and “bootbusters” of 10 miles or more, some suitable for backpacking. Thirty-one hikes are based in the Laurel Highlands and Allegheny National Forest, with the remainder grouped around Pittsburgh and Lake Erie.
60 Hikes Within 60 Miles. Including Allegheny and Surrounding Counties Pittsburgh: by Donna L. Ruff
Donna L. Ruff’s 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Pittsburgh has something for explorers of every ability and interest Diverse hikes include Frick Park, which can be combined with a visit to the Frick Art and Historical Center (free); Ohiopyle State Park, with views of the beautiful Youghiogheny River and Cucumber Falls; Beechwood Farms, where kids and adults can opt to participate in nature programs and walks; and Mt. Davis Natural Area, where hikers can stand on the highest point in Pennsylvania. History buffs will love Bushy Run and its museum and other historical site/hike combinations. Those seeking solitude will relish time spent walking in lovely Todd Sanctuary or one of the scenic and tranquil destinations of Forbes State Forest.
Best Hikes Pittsburgh : the Greatest Views, Wildlife, and Forest Strolls by Bob Frye
Concise descriptions and detailed maps for more than 35 easy-to-follow trails in Pittsburgh that allow hikers of all levels to enjoy beautiful views, get fit in the outdoors, and learn about the region’s history. Best Hikes Pittsburgh gives you the Information you need to plan your customized trip: Common and lesser-known hikes, Full-color photos, maps, detailed trail descriptions, and trailhead GPS, Insightful hike overviews, details on distance, difficulty, canine compatibility, and more. Soul-restoring adventure comes in all varieties when it comes to trails.
50 Hikes in Pennsylvania by Matthew Cathcart
In this all-new first edition, hiking expert Matthew Cathcart (coauthor of 50 Hikes in the Catskills) delivers 50 hikes, walks, and day trips all throughout Pennsylvania. The hiking trails of Pennsylvania offer both novice and experienced hikers a tempting variety of natural terrain and human history. Sites featured in this comprehensive guide to the state’s offerings include the Whiskey Springs Rock Mazes, McConnells Mill State Park, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, and the Lehigh Gap Appalachian Trail Loop.
Hiking Waterfalls in Pennsylvania : a Guide to the State’s Best Waterfall Hikes by Johnny Molloy
Hiking Waterfalls in Pennsylvania includes detailed hike descriptions, maps, and color photos for some of the state’s most scenic waterfall hikes. Hike descriptions include history, local trivia, and GPS coordinates. Hiking Waterfalls in Pennsylvania will take you through state and national parks, forests, monuments and wilderness areas, and from popular city parks to the most remote and secluded corners of the area to view the most spectacular waterfalls.
Forest Walking : Discovering the Trees and Woodlands of North America by Peter Wohlleben
Awaken your senses and make the most out of your next walk in the woods–with Peter Wohlleben, New York Times-bestselling author of The Hidden Life of Trees. When you walk in the woods, do you use all five senses to explore your surroundings? For most of us, the answer is no–but when we do, a walk in the woods can go from pleasant to immersive and restorative. Forest Walking teaches you how to engage with the forest by decoding nature’s signs and awakening to the ancient past and thrilling present of the ecosystem around you. With Forest Walking, German forester Peter Wohlleben teams up with his longtime editor, Jane Billinghurst, as the two write their first book together, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Together, they will teach you how to listen to what the forest is saying, no matter where you live or which trees you plan to visit next.
How to Suffer Outside : a Beginner’s Guide to Hiking and Backpacking by Diana Helmuth
Refreshingly approachable guide for aspiring backpackers and casual hikers of all stripes Colorful and humorous illustrations throughout Relatable, rising female voice in outdoor literature Part critique of modern hiking culture and part how-to guide, How to Suffer Outside is for anyone who wants to hit the trail without breaking the bank. Diana Helmuth offers real advice, opinionated but accessible and based on in-the-field experiences.
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Backpacking and Hiking by Jason Stevenson
Backpacking remains one of the most popular, and inexpensive, outdoor activities in America. The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Backpacking and Hiking helps anyone prepare and plan for a rewarding adventure.
Remembering Her Majesty The Queen
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II (April 21, 1926 – September 8, 2022) was the longest-reigning Monarch in British history. Discover more about her life, family, and impact on the world with these titles.
Biographies & Non-Fiction
The last queen : Elizabeth II’s seventy year battle to save the House of Windsor
by Clive Irving
B ELIZABETH II 2021
Queen of our times : the life of Queen Elizabeth II
by Robert Hardman
B ELIZABETH II 2022
Our rainbow queen : a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and her colorful wardrobe
by Sali Hughes
746.92 HUG 2019
Queen of the world
by Robert Hardman
B ELIZABETH II 2019
Young Elizabeth : the making of the Queen
by Kate Williams
B ELIZABETH II 2015
Monarch : the life and reign of Elizabeth II
by Robert Lacey
B ELIZABETH II 2002
Philip & Elizabeth : portrait of a royal marriage
by Gyles Daubeney Brandreth
923.1 BRA 2005
Game of crowns : Elizabeth, Camilla, Kate, and the throne
by Christopher P. Andersen
941.085 AND 2016
The crown : the official companion
by Robert Lacey
941.085 LAC 2017 v.1
Documentary DVDs
DVD B ELIZABETH II 2015
DVD 728.82 QUE 2012
Fiction
The royal governess : a novel of Queen Elizabeth II’s childhood
by Wendy Holden
F HOL
The queen’s secret : a novel of England’s World War II queen
by Karen Harper
F HAR
The gown : a novel of the royal wedding
by Jennifer Robson
F ROB
The crown. The complete first season
DVD CRO SEA.1
Keep Swimming
Trying to get cool this summer? Check out these titles featuring swimming!
FICTION
Florence Adler Swims Forever by Rachel Beanland
“The perfect summer read” (USA TODAY) begins with a shocking tragedy that results in three generations of the Adler family grappling with heartbreak, romance, and the weight of family secrets over the course of one summer.
The Lido by Libby Page
The library where she used to work has closed. The family grocery store has become a trendy bar. And now the lido, an outdoor pool where she’s swum daily since its opening, is threatened with closure by a local housing developer. It was at the lido that Rosemary escaped the devastation of World War II; here she fell in love with her husband, George; here she found community during her marriage and since George’s death.
The Night Swim by Megan Goldin
In The Night Swim, a new thriller from Megan Goldin, author of the “gripping and unforgettable” (Harlan Coben) The Escape Room, a true crime podcast host covering a controversial trial finds herself drawn deep into a small town’s dark past and a brutal crime that took place there years before.
NONFICTION
Swimming to Antarctica by Lynne Cox
In this extraordinary book, the world’s most extraordinary distance swimmer writes about her emotional and spiritual need to swim and about the almost mystical act of swimming itself.
The Three-Year Swim Club by Julie Checkoway
In 1937, a schoolteacher on the island of Maui challenged a group of poverty-stricken sugar plantation kids to swim upstream against the current of their circumstance. The goal? To become Olympians.
Why We Swim by Bonnie Tsau
We swim in freezing Arctic waters and piranha-infested rivers to test our limits. We swim for pleasure, for exercise, for healing. But humans, unlike other animals that are drawn to water, are not natural born swimmers. We must be taught. Our evolutionary ancestors learned for survival; today, swimming is one of the most popular activities in the world. New York Times contributor Bonnie Tsui, a swimmer herself, dives into the deep, from the San Francisco Bay to the South China Sea, investigating what it is about water that seduces us, and why we come back to it again and again
Global Running Day – June 1, 2022
The best way to celebrate Global Running Day on June 1st is to lace up those running shoes, stop at the library and grab one or more of these titles and head out for a run.
Run Like a Pro (even if you’re slow) : Elite Tools and Tips for Runners at Every Level by Matt Fitzgerald
Cutting-edge advice on how to achieve your personal best, for everyone from casual runners to ultramarathoners.
Running Outside the Comfort Zone : an Explorer’s Guide to the Edges of Running by Susan Lacke
Running Outside the Comfort Zone uncovers the brash, bold, and very human sides of running, and along the way Susan Lacke rekindles her own crush on America’s favorite all-comers sport
Master the Marathon : the Ultimate Training Guide for Women by Ali Nolan
Master the Marathon is a comprehensive guide to marathon training for women at all levels of running – beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The book takes you through everything you need to know to be prepared for the 26.2 miles of the marathon, including detailed training plans, strength training programmes, building your mental awareness of your physical body, nutrition, guidance on finding the best marathon for you, identifying and avoiding potential injuries, inspirational advice, and other unexpected pieces of wisdom.
Run for Your Life by Mark Cucuzzella
The first running book by a world’s leading pioneering running doctor and athlete, creator of the Air Force’s Efficient Running program–the result of more than three decades of study, practice, and science that shows us in clearly illustrated and accessible text how easy it is to run efficiently and injury-free , whether you’re in your 20s, 60s or 70s; for beginning runners and experienced marathoners.
The Run Walk Run Method by Jeff Galloway
Jeff Galloway’s injury-free marathon training program has helped hundreds of thousands of runners of all abilities. Runners will explore the RUN-WALK-RUN Method the principles of and mental and physical benefits behind the method. You will learn Jeff’s Magic Mile, how to set up a running strategy, mental training, proper form and technique, drills, transitions, problem solving, running faster, race rehearsals, and more.
Fitness Running by Richard L. Brown
Whether you run for health, competition, or both, Fitness Running includes proven programs to help you achieve your goals. Color coded and customizable, the 13- to 26-week programs cover base building, fitness, and training for short-distance events, half marathons, and marathons. Each workout is prioritized according to your goal, allowing you the flexibility to tailor the training to your schedule.
Rise & Run : Recipes, Rituals, and Runs to Fuel Your Day by Shalane Flanagan
For athletes, breakfast is always the main topic of conversation when out on a morning run. Shalane Flanagan and Elyse Kopecky believe (and science confirms) that what you eat at the start of the day impacts everything- your mood, your work output, your cravings, your sleep, and even your long-term health. In Rise and Run , they turn their focus to the most important meal of the day, with 100 recipes for nutrient-rich, indulgent breakfasts and packable snacks for athletes on-the-go, including morning staples like Goddess Grain-Free Granola, Breakfast Power Bowls, and new savory and sweet variations of the fan-favorite Superhero Muffins.
Becoming Forrest : One Man’s Epic Run Across America by Rob Pope
The remarkable true story of an unrivalled journey to recreate the greatest run in film history: 15,621 miles, five-times across the United States. Becoming Forrest is the incredible story of Englishman Rob Pope, a veterinarian who left his job in pursuit of a dream – to become the first person ever to complete the epic run undertaken by one of Hollywood’s most beloved characters, Forrest Gump. After his momma urged him “to do one thing in life that made a difference”, he flew to Alabama, put on his running shoes, and sped off into the wilderness.
North : Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail by Scott Jurek
From the author of the bestseller Eat and Run , a thrilling memoir about his grueling, exhilarating, and immensely inspiring 46-day run to break the speed record for the Appalachian Trail. Scott Jurek is one of the world’s best known and most beloved ultrarunners. Renowned for his remarkable endurance and speed, accomplished on a vegan diet, he’s finished first in nearly all of ultrarunning’s elite events over the course of his career. But after two decades of racing, training, speaking, and touring, Jurek felt an urgent need to discover something new about himself. He embarked on a wholly unique challenge, one that would force him to grow as a person and as an athlete: breaking the speed record for the Appalachian Trail.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Check out some of these titles and resources for more information.
Books
What Happened To You? : Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
Have you ever wondered “Why did I do that?” or “Why can’t I just control my behavior?” Others may judge our reactions and think, “What’s wrong with that person?” When questioning our emotions, it’s easy to place the blame on ourselves; holding ourselves and those around us to an impossible standard. It’s time we started asking a different question.
Through deeply personal conversations, Oprah Winfrey and renowned brain and trauma expert Dr. Bruce Perry offer a groundbreaking and profound shift from asking “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?”
The Noonday Demon : An Atlas of Depression by Andrew Solomon
The Noonday Demon is Andrew Solomon’s National Book Award-winning, bestselling, and transformative masterpiece on depression–“the book for a generation, elegantly written, meticulously researched, empathetic, and enlightening” ( Time )–now with a major new chapter covering recently introduced and novel treatments, suicide and anti-depressants, pregnancy and depression, and much more.
The Body Keeps the Score : Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel Van der Kolk
Trauma is a fact of life. Veterans and their families deal with the painful aftermath of combat; one in five Americans has been molested; one in four grew up with alcoholics; one in three couples have engaged in physical violence. Such experiences inevitably leave traces on minds, emotions, and even on biology. Sadly, trauma sufferers frequently pass on their stress to their partners and children.
A Cure for Darkness : The Story of Depression and How We Treat It by Alex Riley
Is depression a persistent low mood, or is it a range of symptoms? Can it be expressed through a single diagnosis, or does depression actually refer to a diversity of mental disorders? Is there, or will there ever be, a cure? In seeking the answers to these questions, Riley finds a rich history of ideas and treatments–and takes the reader on a gripping narrative journey, packed with fascinating stories like the junior doctor who discovered that some of the first antidepressants had a deadly reaction with cheese.
Resources
JFCS Counseling Services – Providing a team of social workers and professional counselors, with areas of specialization ranging from child therapy and blended families to marital discord, anxiety and depression.
Resolve Crisis Center (UPMC) – Crisis intervention and hospital diversion service. Anyone who resides in Allegheny County can access these services, regardless of ability to pay or type of crisis.
United Way 2-1-1 – Call 211 – PA 2‑1‑1 Southwest is part of the national 2‑1‑1 Call Centers initiative that seeks to provide an easy-to-remember telephone number, chat, text, and a web resource for finding health and human services– for everyday needs and in crisis situations.
Check out this link for more resources on this topic: https://sewickleylibrary.org/about-spl/community-information/social-services/
Celebrate Pinot Grigio Day!
Everyone knows that May 17th is Pinot Grigio Day…right? A national holiday that is celebrated by wine enthusiasts every May. Here are a few titles from our collection that pair well with a bottle of white.
Nonfiction Books
by Jancis Robinson
In her pithy, approachable, comprehensive guide, Robinson shares her expertise with authority, wit, and approachability, tackling questions such as how to select the right bottle at retail, what wine labels signify, how to understand the properties of color and aroma, and how to match food and wine.
by Victoria James
At just twenty-one, the age when most people are starting to drink (well, legally at least), Victoria James became the country’s youngest sommelier at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
by Maximillian Potter
Journalist Maximillian Potter uncovers a fascinating plot to destroy the vines of La Romance-Conti, Burgundy’s finest and most expensive wine.
Fiction Books
by Nadine Nettmann
Katie Stillwell focuses on two things in her life: work and practicing for Sommelier Certification with her blind tasting group. The exam was supposed to be the hardest part of her week, but that was before a body was found at an exclusive Napa Valley winery party.
by Jean Moynahan
The Illuminated Vineyard explores what occurs when unresolved conflicts from the past not only haunt the present but threaten to destroy it.
Movies/Documentaries
Follows four candidates as they prepare for the Master Sommelier exam, which covers every aspect of the presentation and appreciation of wine.
Follows seven wine-making families in France’s Burgundy region through the course of a year. Examines the processes of making wine. Shows the centrality of the wine to the culture of the region.
Napa Valley, 1976. For connoisseur Steven Spurrier, there is no finer art than French wine. But rumors bandy about of a new California wine country that holds the future of the vine. Positive the small Napa wineries are no match for established French vintages, Spurrier challenges the Americans to a blind taste test. He finds the valley full of ambitious, and talented, novice vinters like Jim Barrett and his son Bo. He realizes his publicity stunt may change the history of wine forever.
A wine-tasting road trip through California’s famed Central Coast takes an unexpected detour as Miles and Jack hit the gas en route to their mid-life crises. The comically mismatched pair soon find themselves drowning in wine, women and laughter.
New Spring Titles
Spring is finally here, so whether you are getting your garden ready or starting a new garden, here are some new titles to inspire you.
Plant Grow Harvest Repeat : Grow a Bounty of Vegetables, Fruits, and Flowers by Mastering the Art of Succession Planting by Meg McAndrews Cowden
Discover how to get more out of your growing space with succession planting–carefully planned, continuous seed sowing–and provide a steady stream of fresh food from early spring through late fall. Plant Grow Harvest Repeat will inspire you to create an even more productive, beautiful, and enjoyable garden across the seasons–every vegetable gardener’s dream.
Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden : a Natural Approach to Pest Control by Jessica Walliser
In Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden , you’ll learn how to fill your garden with the right plants to support the beneficial predatory insects that control common garden pests.
Grow More Food : a Vegetable Gardener’s Guide to Getting the Biggest Harvest Possible from a Space of Any Size by Colin McCrate
For today’s vegetable gardeners who want to grow as much of their own food as possible, this guide offers expert advice and strategies for cultivating a garden that supplies what they need. Colin McCrate and Brad Halm, former CSA growers and current owners of the Seattle Urban Farm Company, help readers boost their garden productivity by teaching them how to plan carefully, maximize production in every bed, get the most out of every plant, scale up systems to maximize efficiency, and expand the harvest season with succession planting, intercropping, and season extension.
Gardening for Everyone : Growing Vegetables, Herbs, and More at Home by Julia Watkins
Growing food in your backyard (or even on a porch or windowsill!) is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to nourish yourself, be self-sufficient, and connect with nature in a hands-on way. Here sustainability expert Julia Watkins shares everything you need to know to grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs (as well as wildflowers and other beneficial companion plants).
Grow Now : How We Can Save Our Health, Communities, and Planet-One Garden at a Time by Emily Murphy
Exquisitely photographed and filled with helpful lists and sidebars, Grow Now is an actionable, hopeful, and joyful roadmap for growing our way to individual climate contributions.
Becoming a Gardener : What Reading and Digging Taught Me About Living by Catie Marron
In Becoming a Gardener, Catie Marron chronicles her transformation into a gardener over the course of eighteen months, seeding the details of her experience with rich advice from writers as diverse as Eleanor Perényi and Karel Capek, Penelope Lively, and Jamaica Kincaid. A delightful blend of informed opinion, personal reflection, and practical advice, Becoming a Gardener explores topics as varied as the composition of dirt, the agricultural wisdom of avid kitchen gardeners George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, the healing power of digging in the soil, and the beauty of finding solitude in nature. A beautifully designed, full-color personal account of what it means to become a gardener, filled with specially commissioned color photography, watercolors, and fine art.
Let This Be The Year You Catch Up on Classics
Now is the time to finally check off some of the classic titles that have been lingering on your to-read list. Need some suggestions? Try these tried and true titles:
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Guy Montag is a fireman. His job is to destroy the most illegal of commodities, the printed book, along with the houses in which they are hidden. Montag never questions the destruction and ruin his actions produce, returning each day to his bland life and wife, Mildred, who spends all day with her television “family.” But when he meets an eccentric young neighbor, Clarisse, who introduces him to a past where people didn’t live in fear and to a present where one sees the world through the ideas in books instead of the mindless chatter of television, Montag begins to question everything he has ever known.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil : a Savannah story by John Berendt
Shots rang out in Savannah’s grandest mansion in the misty, early morning hours of May 2, 1981. Was it murder or self-defense? For nearly a decade, the shooting and its aftermath reverberated throughout this hauntingly beautiful city of moss-hung oaks and shaded squares. John Berendt’s sharply observed, suspenseful, and witty narrative reads like a thoroughly engrossing novel, and yet it is a work of nonfiction. Berendt skillfully interweaves a hugely entertaining first-person account of life in this isolated remnant of the Old South with the unpredictable twists and turns of a landmark murder case.