Sometimes, you just have to leave your library and head out into the bright sunshine. Over the weekend, my spouse and I took the Corgis to the park, where they ran to their hearts’ delight. Gwen met some new BFFs — both canine and human — and Dylan got to spend some quality time with his favorite pink ball. In honor of trips and/or getting outdoors, I’ll be sharing one of my favorite books about nature and one of my favorite books to listen to on road trips with the kids in your life.
But first, new books and a reminder that Book Riot’s editorial team is writing for casual and power readers alike over at The Deep Dive! During the month of September, all new free subscribers will be entered to win Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler, plus five mystery books from The Deep Dive. To enter, simply start a free subscription to The Deep Dive. No payment method required!
Bookish Goods
Bookmark – Edinburgh Ghosts by Snug and Scribble
These bookmarks! Look, I saw these and felt immediately smitten. They have such a perfect balance of cute and creepy. I may just have to order all three. $3
New Releases
Thicker Than Water: A Memoir by Kerry Washington
Scandal and Little Fires Everywhere star Kerry Washington writes about her experience learning that her parents used a sperm donor to conceive. After that revelation, Washington searches for information about her donor, uncovering a host of secrets in the process.
The World According to Joan Didion by Evelyn McDonnell
In this biography of the iconic writer, Evelyn McDonnell delves into Didion’s life and her perspective on the world. McDonnell investigates the people and places that inspired Didion and made her into the American icon that she became.
For a more comprehensive list, check out our New Books newsletter.
Riot Recommendations
Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? by Caitlin Doughty, illustrated by Dianné Ruz
Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? is a hilarious book of discussion questions that kids have about death. In each chapter, Doughty, a mortician, answers one question that a child has asked her over the course of her career. From hair growth to pet death, Doughty tackles each topic with her signature wit and humor. Plus, she narrates the audiobook, giving listeners an incredible performance. If you find yourself on a car trip or just need something to entertain the kids in your life, Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? would be an incredible choice.
World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil, illustrated by Fumi Nakamura
World of Wonders is a gorgeous book that’s perfect for giving to someone else or as a special treat for yourself. It’s full to the brim of love and enthusiasm for the natural world. Nezhukumatathil shares her love for everything from plants to animals to marine life. Plus, this book is a gorgeous keepsake, beautifully illustrated by Fumi Nakamura. This book is truly a one-of-a-kind reading experience.
That’s it for this week! You can find me over on my substack Winchester Ave, over on Instagram @kdwinchester, or on my podcast Read Appalachia. As always, feel free to drop me a line at kendra.d.winchester@gmail.com. For even MORE bookish content, you can find my articles over on Book Riot.
Happy Reading, Friends!
~ Kendra