 I went into this expecting a boy-and-his-dog story, but it turned out to be so much more. At its heart, it’s about a boy who idolizes his late grandfather. His father walked out, his mother is struggling with a back injury that’s led to opioid addiction, and they live in extreme poverty. He’s doing everything he can to keep their hardships hidden from others, fearing intervention from protective services, while desperately trying to hold onto the property his grandfather left him.
An incredible read. Want to read it? Click here to reserve! Or if you prefer, get the eBook with your SPL card. Aimee Clark, IT Librarian
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 Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a raw and emotional coming-of-age story that perfectly captures the struggles of growing up. Told through letters from Charlie, an introverted and observant freshman, the book explores friendship, love, trauma, and self-acceptance. His bond with Patrick and Sam helps him navigate life’s highs and lows, making for a heartfelt and relatable journey.
This book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like mental health, abuse, sexuality, and drug use—one reason it has been banned in some schools. But that honesty is exactly what makes it so powerful and important. While Charlie’s narration can feel overly naïve at times, the book’s authenticity and emotional depth make up for it. If you love coming-of-age stories that make you feel everything, this one is a must-read. Get the book at the library, or download the eBook or audiobook with your SPL card. The library also has the movie adaptation on DVD. Aimee Clark, IT Librarian  Night by Elie Wiesel is a gut-wrenching, raw glimpse into one of history's darkest periods. In this memoir, Wiesel pulls no punches as he recounts his harrowing experiences during the Holocaust, making the reader feel every moment of despair, shock, and lingering disbelief. The narrative is both sparse and powerful, reflecting the stark reality of life in the concentration camps without ever drifting into unnecessary embellishment. Despite its brevity, the book packs an emotional punch, urging you to reflect on humanity, the loss of innocence, and the capacity for both cruelty and resilience. It’s a tough, unforgettable read that stays with you long after you’ve finished it.
Would you like to read this? Click here to reserve! With your SPL card, the eBook and audioboook are also available to reserve. Aimee Clark, IT Librarian  The Devil Takes You Home by Gabino Iglesias is a raw, gut-punch of a story that’s equal parts crime thriller, horror, and heartbreaking drama. It follows Mario, a grieving father drowning in debt after his daughter's illness. Desperate to make things right, he takes a job with a cartel, and things spiral into a brutal nightmare. Think Breaking Bad or Better Call Saul with a sprinkle of supernatural.
The writing is sharp and vivid, pulling no punches as it dives into grief, faith, classism, racism, and the ugly choices people make when life leaves them no way out. It’s dark, gripping, and totally unforgettable—perfect if you’re into gritty, no-holds-barred fiction that keeps space in your brain forever. Aimee Clark, IT Librarian Interested? Click here to reserve! An audiobook version is available to reserve with your SPL card as well. |
The SPL StaffWe work here at the library, and we’re into all kinds of books! How Do I Get These Books?See our Quickstart Guides page for information on how to use the online catalog and how to get eBooks and audiobooks for your specific device. You can also contact us there if you need more help!
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