staff
PICKS

Looking for something new? Find your next read with the library's specially curated Staff Picks collection! Staff members from all departments of the library share their favorite books, movies, and music online and in the library for patrons to pick up.

Look for Staff Picks on a shelf in the lobby near the elevator, or in the stacks marked by a special "Staff Picks" sign.
Check this page each Wednesday for weekly recommendations
Visit the library's social media accounts:
Facebook, Instagram (@DownersGroveLibrary), or Twitter (@DGlibrary)

Follow and use the hashtag #DGPLreads to keep up with the freshest picks by DGPL staff.

Congrats to our 2020 Pick Pack winners:
Week 1: Adult Mystery/Thriller - Ryan S. and Adult Graphic Novel - Mason L.

Week 2: Science Fiction/Fantasy - Kassie L. and Adult Nonfiction - Marilyn S.

Week 3: Adult Romance - Cynthia L. and Kids (Younger) - Dave J.

Week 4: Kids (Older) - Sara L. and Adult Historical Fiction - Janet G.

Week 5: Adult Nonfiction #2 - Lois P. and Young Adult - Linda R.

Curated Lists

BEST BOOKS of 2020

Monthly Picks: Cozy Picks

Weekly Recommendations

Brown by Håkon Øvreås

January 20, 2021Book, Kids (Grades 3-4), Kids (Grades 5-6), Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“Brown has this mostly realistic but slightly magical, totally mundane but kind of absurd feeling to it, that reminds me of Roald Dahl’s stories!” – Lisa, Kids Room Rusty is having a tough time. His family moved, his grandfather died, an...

The Biggest Little Farm directed by John Chester

January 13, 2021Adult, Kids (Grades 5-6), Kids (Grades 7-8), Movie, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“This documentary has stunning visuals and I felt transported watching the desolate soil come alive again. My entire family enjoyed watching this portrait of life on a big little farm.” – Gracie, Kids Room Molly has a dream of starting a...

I Killed Zoe Spanos by Kit Frick

January 6, 2021Audiobook, Mystery & Thriller, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“The alternating perspectives and flashbacks to events throughout the summer create a suspenseful web of mystery and twists. The audio is a full-cast recording and lends itself well to the nature of the storytelling, where the podcast fe...

The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg

December 30, 2020Adult, Book, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“I loved this short, sweet, well-written book! It is a feel-good book that will make you smile, and the book reminded me of the essential goodness of people. It was a perfect book for the quarantine, and I am looking forward to reading E...

The Nine Tailors by Dorothy L. Sayers

December 23, 2020Adult, Book, Historical Fiction, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“A classic English mystery, with an eccentric detective, arcane clues, and much ado about bells. It’s like the Moby Dick of bells!” – Fred, Adult & Teen Services Amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey is pressed into service as a bell ringer i...

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

December 16, 2020Adult, Book, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“Donna Tartt is just a beautiful writer. Her descriptions of events and tight dialogue are wonderful, and her story is engaging and unlike anything I’ve ever read. This is a book that rewards a reread so you can pick up on all the foresh...

Never Rarely Sometimes Always by Eliza Hittman

December 9, 2020Adult, Movie, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“Quietly, profoundly powerful. Every single frame is raw and stunningly real. Devastating at times, yet also inspiring and beautiful when viewed through the lens of how friendship, strength, and empathy can get you through anything. Feat...

Build Your Own Christmas Movie Romance: Pick Your Plot, Meet Your Man, and Create the Holiday Story of a Lifetime by Riane Konc

December 2, 2020Adult, Book, Humor, Staff Picks

“Riane’s trademark witty writing will grab you from the first few pages. If you love great writing, satire, and holiday reads, this book is for you!” – Joy, Adult & Teen Services Need a cozy read this holiday season? In a “choose your ow...

The Queens of Animation by Nathalia Holt

November 25, 2020Adult, Book, Nonfiction, Staff Picks

“The Queens of Animation details the significant contributions that women played in the legendary success of Walt Disney.” – MaryKellie, Access Services Insight into the wonderful, often never mentioned, women who contributed to the succ...

Going Postal by Terry Pratchett

November 18, 2020Adult, Book, Fantasy, Humor, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“I love Terry Pratchett’s Discworld franchise. His keen satire, original fantasy setting, and prolific library of work makes it easy to recommend anything by him. Going Postal, specifically, is the peak of his craft.” – Max, IT Failed co...

Leave Only Footprints: My Acadia-to-Zion Journey Through Every National Park by Conor Knighton

November 11, 2020Adult, Adventure/Survival, Book, Staff Picks

“This was a lovely easy read, and I laughed out loud more than once at Conor’s mishaps on his journey across all the Parks. Great spring to summer read!” – Joy, Adult & Teen Services This was a lovely, somewhat cheeky memoir about a 30 s...

Tomb of the Unknown Racist by Blanche McCrary Boyd

November 4, 2020Adult, Book, Historical Fiction, Mystery & Thriller, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“Ellen’s reckless quest to archaeologize (and maybe redeem?) her family’s flawed and tragic history (and her own role in it) is relentlessly readable. Replete with timeless themes of filial responsibility (“Am I my brother’s keeper,” Ell...

F*ck Your Diet: And Other Things My Thighs Tell Me by Chloe Hilliard

October 28, 2020Adult, Book, Humor, Staff Picks

“Stand up comedienne Chloe Hilliard pokes fun at her own growing pains but gives us so much more to consider on these topics, backed up with extensive research. I was smiling and often laughing out loud while reading this book, and think...

A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell

October 21, 2020Adult, Adventure/Survival, Book, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“I loved Virginia Hall’s courage and indomitable spirit, breaking through sexist barriers at that time in history.” – Mary P., Circulation A captivating true story about how one courageous woman helped change the views of women in warfar...

Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney

October 14, 2020Adult, Book, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“I loved the characters. They are so realistic and so perfectly imperfect!” – Nancy, Adult & Teen Services This is the story of Frances and Bobbi, two college students in Dublin, Ireland. Frances is the quiet one, while Bobbi is the be...

The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

October 7, 2020Book, LGBTQ+, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“This is a beautifully written novel in verse that will speak to anyone looking to find their place in the world.” – Amanda, Adult & Teen Services A boy comes to terms with his identity as a mixed-race gay teen – then at university he fi...

How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell

September 30, 2020Adventure/Survival, Audiobook, Fantasy, Humor, Kids (Grades 3-4), Kids (Grades 5-6), Staff Picks

“It is VERY funny—the audiobook is fantastic, with amusing accents” – DGPL Staff Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is a Viking boy whose father is head of his tribe. During his tribe’s initiation, he proves himself to be a brave risk-taker! ...

Soon by Lois Murphy

September 23, 2020Adult, Book, Horror, Staff Picks

“This is a great mix of horror and drama, in which the reader can easily identify with the main characters.” – Misty, Adult & Teen Services Residents of a small Australian town are plagued by a deadly mist that only appears at night. Mos...

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

September 16, 2020Adult, Arts/Culture, Book, Humor, Memoir/Biography, Nonfiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“Mindy auditioned for an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. (Yes, Mindy Kaling from The Office.) She professionally impersonated Ben Affleck. She used to be a member of a middle school Cheesecake Factory gang of girls. I had to reread multiple...

Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou

September 9, 2020Adult, Book, Nonfiction, Staff Picks

“While the subject might seem a bit dry, this book was a page-turner that touches on corporate greed, Silicon Valley start-ups, smart and educated people being duped by a narcissistic leader, and family feuds. It has something for everyo...

Are You Listening? by Tillie Walden

September 2, 2020Adult, Book, Graphic Novel, LGBTQ+, Staff Picks

“This graphic novel is an emotional, yet hopeful little road trip story. It discusses important and difficult topics such as coming out and sexual assault, while also being whimsical and slightly spooky with its touches of magic. The art...

Leave Me Alone! by Vera Brosgol

August 26, 2020Book, Fantasy, Humor, Kids (Grades 1-2), Picture Book, Staff Picks

“This book made me laugh! It starts out like an old folk tale and somehow veers off into the realm of sci-fi. It’s also probably the sweetest book ever written about a cranky old lady just yelling at everyone to leave her alone.” – DGPL ...

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

August 19, 2020Adult, Book, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“A tightly written thriller from a first-time author, enough twists and turns to keep the reader up all night. A thriller for people who don’t even like thrillers. A great book club choice as well.” – Joy & Misty, Adult & Teen Services T...

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

August 12, 2020Book, Fantasy, Kids (Grades 5-6), Kids (Grades 7-8), Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“I was captivated by this story when my 5th-grade teacher read it to our class during our lunch hour. As a shy 10-year-old, I was drawn to Meg and all that she could do when she trusted herself.” – Cheryl, Circulation Travel through spac...

Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love by Jonathan Van Ness

August 5, 2020Adult, Audiobook, LGBTQ+, Memoir/Biography, Nonfiction, Staff Picks

“I absolutely loved listening to Van Ness’ audiobook. I could not get enough of him in the series, Queer Eye. His joy for life just radiates and his quippy lines stick with you. I am really just amazed by his ability to turn his pain int...

Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson

July 29, 2020Adult, Book, Humor, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“I loved how layered and complex the characters and relationships are. This short book packs a powerful punch, taking readers on a funny, weird, and poignant ride!” – Van, Adult & Teen Services Lillian, who has no experience taking car...

Stuffed by Liz Braswell

July 22, 2020Book, Fantasy, Kids (Grades 3-4), Staff Picks

“This book is fun, action-packed, filled with adventure, sweet, and a little creepy…just like middle-grade boys. Perfect for those of us who still get worried about those monsters under the bed.” – Gracie, Kids Room Clark just finished 4...

The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey

July 15, 2020Adult, Book, Science Fiction, Staff Picks

“Amos! And Avasarala. The characters are all pretty great; nobody is perfect and they all have their own personal issues. The series (books 1-8 so far) is sort of like a space-based A Song of Ice and Fire (George R. R. Martin), with the ...

Well Met by Jen Deluca

July 8, 2020Adult, Book, Romance, Staff Picks

“The perfect light-romantic read for nerdy Renaissance Faire fans. Simon is your everyday English teacher hero who is very much the guy next door, and Emily is a lovely relatable heroine.” – Joy, Adult & Teen Services Emily is just in to...

Moon Called by Patricia Briggs.

July 1, 2020Adult, Book, Fantasy, Staff Picks

“With a strong female protagonist and great character development, this book reminded me of Outlander. I’m not normally a fan of fantasy, so I didn’t think I would like the book, but I ended up loving it.” – Amy, Adult & Teen Services/Ki...

Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell

June 24, 2020Adult, Audiobook, Nonfiction, Staff Picks

“An absolutely fascinating look at why it’s so difficult to know the ‘other'” – Julie, Administration Why are we so bad at making sense of the words and actions of people we don’t know? Malcolm Gladwell has a well-researched, engrossing ...

Dreamland by Nancy Bilyeau

June 17, 2020Adult, Book, Historical Fiction, Staff Picks

“I love Nancy Bilyeau’s ability to show a beautiful story, peppered with a few thrills that keep the reader guessing until the last few pages. Her evocative setting of early 20th century New York is a perfect escapist read!” – Joy, Adult...

Look! What Do You See? An Art Puzzle Book of American & Chinese Songs by Xu Bing

June 10, 2020Arts/Culture, Book, Kids (Grades 3-4), Nonfiction, Staff Picks

“I happened upon this book, thought “well, this looks weird”, and set it aside to look at later. It turns out that the entire thing is a brain game, and I love puzzles! It’s clever and unique and totally new to me, and the code even foll...

Lucky Boy by Shanthi Sekaran

June 3, 2020Adult, Book, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“This book was recommended to me by one of our patrons, and it was fantastic. The author does an excellent job of creating real characters in this very timely story about immigration. This book is a hidden gem.” – Nancy, Adult & Teen Ser...

The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman

May 27, 2020Book, Historical Fiction, Kids (Grades 5-6), Staff Picks

“Very engaging book from the start with two very well developed characters” – DGPL Staff An amazing story of two very different 5th grade girls during the Chernobyl Power Station Disaster and how that one night changed their lives foreve...

Dhampir by Barb and J.C. Hendee

May 20, 2020Adult, Book, Fantasy, Horror, Staff Picks

“The tagline sold me immediately, “Mix between Lord of the Rings and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Don’t let the horrible cover keep you away from this fantasy series.” – Traci, Kids Room Magiere and her partner, the half-elf Leesil, are re...

Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima

May 13, 2020Book, Fantasy, Humor, Kids (Grades 1-2), Staff Picks

“This book has unicorns and rainbows, both literally and figuratively. Not only is this book fun and super cute, but it also has a wonderful message about love and acceptance. Just thinking about this book makes me want to read it all ov...

With a Little Help from My Friends by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, & Henry Cole (artist)

May 6, 2020Book, Picture Book, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“The illustrations are beautiful!” – Traci, Kids Room Gorgeously illustrated picture book put to the lyrics of “With a Little Help from My Friends.”

You’re Not Listening: What You’re Missing and Why it Matters by Kate Murphy

April 29, 2020Adult, Book, Nonfiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“It was a fascinating read, but also extremely practical and uplifting, even for those of us who are terrible listeners!” – Joy, Adult & Teen Services Kate Murphy has done an excellent job explaining how the lack of good listeners in our...

The Sixties Trilogy by Deborah Wiles

April 22, 2020Book, Historical Fiction, Kids (Grades 5-6), Kids (Grades 7-8), Staff Picks

“News clippings, pictures, and music lyrics of the times bolster this heartfelt narrative.” – DGPL Staff The Trilogy includes Countdown, Revolution, and Anthem. Each book takes the reader through the not-too-distant past, told in the voi...

Legally Blonde, Strictly Ballroom, Baby Boom

April 15, 2020Adult, Humor, Movie, Romance, Staff Picks

“I was looking for something light and funny during these stressful times. All three of these movies, which are available to stream on Hoopla, fit the bill. They made me smile and laugh and provided a nice escape from the events of the o...

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

April 8, 2020Adult, Book, Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks

“Count Rostov, the beating heart of this book, is universally appealing in his humane-ness, his loyalty, his quiet erudition, and his self-effacing charm. Great characters, a surprisingly twisty story, and beautiful language combine to m...

Life Will Be the Death of Me…And You Too! by Chelsea Handler

April 1, 2020Adult, Audiobook, Humor, Memoir/Biography, Staff Picks

“I’ve followed Handler’s career for years now, and her very in your face, no holds barred, no filter comedy has always been funny. This book, however, is brutally honest, insightful, sensitive, and hilarious. One minute I was laughing, t...

Red House, Tree House, Little Bitty Brown Mouse by Jane Godwin & Blanca Gomez

March 25, 2020Book, Picture Book, Staff Picks

“This adorable picture book was barely in my hands before my not-yet-reading preschooler daughter grabbed it from me and announced “I can read this one by myself, Mama”. The bright gorgeous illustrations of trains, houses, and where the ...

Before She Knew Him by Peter Swanson

March 18, 2020Adult, Book, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“Peter Swanson is a great writer of Hitchcockian suspense and his newest book, Before She Knew Him, doesn’t disappoint.” – Lora, Adult & Teen Services Artist Henrietta “Hen” Mazur is convinced her next-door neighbor Matthew Dolamore is a...

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

March 11, 2020Adult, Book, Fantasy, LGBTQ+, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“Morgenstern’s poetic prose is what shines through in this multilayered story that weaves between Zachary’s story and the folkloric stories within the book he’s found. This is a novel that will completely sweep you off your feet.” – Aman...

Who Wet My Pants? by Bob Shea & Zachariah OHora

March 4, 2020Book, Humor, Mystery & Thriller, Picture Book, Staff Picks

“I loved this witty take on what can be an embarrassing situation for little ones. Reuben the bear has such great friends that help him come to terms with who really wet his pants. No need to be ashamed because accidents happen!” – DGPL ...

As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride by Cary Elwes

February 26, 2020Adult, Audiobook, Memoir/Biography, Staff Picks

“As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride is… an audiobook, of a book, about a movie, based on another book. A quote from the original work, The Princess Bride by William Goldman, might put it best: “This is...

What If It’s Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

February 19, 2020Book, LGBTQ+, Realistic Fiction, Romance, Staff Picks

“I loved the complex, flawed, yet lovable characters! The two writing styles of Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera complimented each other so well. They struck a wonderful balance between romantic and awkwardly adorable, and the ending wa...

Second Sight by Aoife Clifford

February 12, 2020Adult, Book, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“I love mysteries with a great sense of place, especially when they are set in Australia. Second Sight doesn’t disappoint on that count. It’s also a great read-alike for the novels of Jane Harper.” – Lora, Adult & Teen Services Second Si...

The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann

February 5, 2020Book, Fantasy, Kids (Grades 5-6), Kids (Grades 7-8), Staff Picks

“The Unwanteds was a page-turner. Each adventure was exciting and how they used their powers was unique.” – DGPL Staff In a society that purges thirteen-year-olds who are creative, identical twins Aaron and Alex are separated, one to att...

Akin by Emma Donoghue

January 29, 2020Adult, Arts/Culture, Book, Historical Fiction, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“Donoghue’s writing is delightful, unexpected, and a joy to read. If you’ve never picked up a Donoghue novel (author of Room), this is a great one to start!” – Joy, Adult & Teen Services 80-year-old Noah discovers that he’s last next of ...

The Story of Owen by E.K. Johnston

January 22, 2020Book, Fantasy, Kids (Grades 7-8), Staff Picks

“This dragon story, set in contemporary Canada, delivers an alternate history offering both fantasy and modern-day social commentary. Heroes are not limited to one gender as proud men and women work side by side to change history.” – DGP...

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

January 15, 2020Adult, Book, Romance, Staff Picks

“Before I picked up The Unhoneymooners, I had read several more serious books, and I was looking for a change. The Unhoneymooners was just what I was looking for…a cute, fun, lively, romantic escape from everyday life. I loved the charac...

The Adventures of a South Pole Pig by Chris Kurtz

January 8, 2020Adventure/Survival, Book, Kids (Grades 3-4), Staff Picks

“Flora is an adorable character, who is brave and kind. There are many funny situations, and themes of loyalty and friendship are explored.” – DGPL Staff Flora is a plucky pig who dreams of becoming a sled-pig. (sled-dog) Miraculously, s...

The Twisted Ones by T. Kingfisher

January 1, 2020Adult, Book, Horror, Staff Picks

“This book is downright creepy and has a likable main character in Mouse.” – Misty, Adult & Teen Services Mouse has been asked by her dad to clean out her dead grandmother’s house. The problem is that grandma was a hoarder, and that isn’...

Little Santa by Jon Agee

December 25, 2019Book, Holiday, Holiday, Picture Book, Staff Picks

“A charming but not too cutesy story about Santa’s childhood origins. A fun addition to a holiday storytime out loud read for ages 3-5.” – Joy, Adult & Teen Services What was Santa like as a kid? Author Jon Agee tells a marvelous tale of...

Don’t You Forget About Me by Mhairi McFarlane

December 18, 2019Adult, Book, Romance, Staff Picks

“I loved Georgina’s voice. The last twelve years of her life have been a series of bad dates, miserable jobs, and disappointment. She doesn’t give up. In fact, she sticks up for herself and doesn’t take prisoners doing it.” – Sharon, Kid...

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

December 11, 2019Adult, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Staff Picks

“Daisy Jones & the Six is one of the best and most memorable audiobooks I have ever listened to! Written as a transcribed oral history, this book lends itself perfectly to the audio format. Narrated by a star-studded full cast of 21 narr...

A Big Mooncake for Little Star by Grace Lin

December 4, 2019Book, Fantasy, Picture Book, Staff Picks

“This book became a fast favorite and bedtime staple in our house! My 2-year old loves pretending to eat and make mooncakes with Little Star, and I can relate all-too-well to my own Little Star sneaking out of bed. This book is equal par...

Recursion by Blake Crouch

November 27, 2019Book, Science Fiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“Crouch creates very well-defined characters, with a modern twist on time travel and how it impacts the nature of reality.” – Karen B., Adult & Teen Services In modern-day, people are able to go back in time to a specific memory and make...

Michigan vs. The Boys by Carrie S. Allen

November 20, 2019Book, Realistic Fiction, Staff Picks, Teens (Grades 9-12)

“Michigan is a strong young woman who will do anything to keep playing the game she loves. This book is full of relationships that feel authentic and shows the power of asking for help from your support system.” – Amanda, Adult & Teen Se...

Please Don’t Be Dead by Fantastic Negrito

November 13, 2019Adult, CD, Staff Picks

“It’s soul, it’s funk, it’s blues, it’s Fantastic!” – Kelly, Kids Room This two time Grammy winner connects with the audience and contemporary issues like none other that I’ve heard. The title comes from a near fatal car accident that ...

Learning to See by Elise Hooper

November 6, 2019Adult, Book, Historical Fiction, Staff Picks

“I loved the fact that the book touched on the major events in Lange’s life and that it was an overview of her whole life rather than just a period. I was also so glad to see some of her photographs included. An engaging read that made m...

Wed Wabbit by Lissa Evans

November 1, 2019Book, Fantasy, Humor, Kids (Grades 3-4), Staff Picks

“The accident notwithstanding, this is unexpected and fun. It’s filled with riddles and is laugh out loud funny. Wed Wabbit is seriously evil and the Wembly Woos are drippingly sweet. Lissa Evans does not disappoint and I rooted for Grah...

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco

November 1, 2019Adult, Arts/Culture, Book, Historical Fiction, Mystery & Thriller, Staff Picks

“Clever and immersive, learned and witty, I was drawn into Eco’s ingenious story and warmly drawn characters.” – Fred, Adult & Teen Services In 1327, scholar-monk Brother William of Baskerville is sent to an isolated Italian abbey to inv...

I Thought My Father Was God by Paul Auster

November 1, 2019Adult, Arts/Culture, Book, Humor, Memoir/Biography, Nonfiction, Staff Picks

“I am obsessed with people’s stories and backgrounds and the inner workings of America, especially from years ago.” – Brian, Public Relations I Thought My Father Was God gathers 180 personal, true-life accounts in a single, powerful volu...