lioness-books

Community Supports Local Business: How Leander Showed Up

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:45:11 GMT

We did not expect to be writing this post. Just a few weeks ago, we were days away from opening the doors of our new Lioness Books location in Leander, Texas. The shelves were stocked. The inventory was in place. The excitement was real. And then, on the night of March 26, a fire broke out, destroying everything we had prepared for that opening.

What happened next showed us what community support for local businesses truly means.

The Community Support That Changed Everything

When people talk about what makes a small town feel like home, they usually mean something intangible. A feeling. An atmosphere. But what we experienced after the fire was anything but intangible. It was specific, practical, and deeply human.

Community support for local businesses can take many forms. What it looked like for us was people showing up, literally and figuratively, in the middle of our hardest week.

The People We Have to Name

A few people stepped in personally and made a real difference in those first hard days. Their actions are exactly what community supports local business owners need most when everything feels uncertain.

The Community Support That Changed Everything

Community support for local businesses can take many forms. What it looked like for us was people showing up, literally and figuratively, in the middle of our hardest week.

The People We Have to Name

The Leander Fire Department quickly put out the fire and kept it from spreading to neighboring properties. Thankfully, there was no loss of life due to their quick response. Stephani McGirr and the team at EGS Marketing helped us find our footing and communicate clearly to our customers when we were still processing grief. Several local businesses stepped up to help us through fundraising and book collections. We have to thank Penny Royal Bakery , 5th Element Brewing , Turquoise Peacock Boutique , and Sharks Burger for hosting fundraisers for our benefit. Many, many more collected books, PPE, and other items we needed in their neighborhoods. The Leander Chamber of Commerce served as a donation collection site for us.

We would not have found our bearings without any of them. Each one of these people demonstrated what community supports local business truly means, not in theory, but in action, in real time, in the middle of our hardest week.

The Cleanup and the Donations

The community support local business owners dream about but rarely experience started almost immediately after the news spread. Neighbors, customers, and people we had never even met came to help with the cleanup. They did not wait to be asked. They just came. They sorted through what remained, helped clear the space, and stayed until the work was done. That kind of showing up, the quiet, sleeves-rolled-up kind, is not something you forget.

The Cleanup and the Donations

The donations followed. A GoFundMe was shared, and the response genuinely moved us. People giving what they could, sharing the link, leaving messages of encouragement. Every contribution was a direct act of community support, a key to local business recovery, and it told us something important: this store already meant something to people before it ever opened its doors.

The outpouring reminded us that community support for local businesses is not built overnight. It is built through showing up, over and over, in small ways and large ones. Leander showed up for us in both.

It Is Hard to Overstate What This Felt Like

We have been in business long enough to know that community support for local businesses cannot be manufactured. Small businesses close every day without anyone noticing. What happened to Lioness Books after the fire was the opposite of that.

This felt personal. It felt like people had already claimed this store as their own, and they were protecting it. Customers who had only ever found us at events, on the bookmobile, or online sent messages telling us to keep going. Residents who had been waiting for a neighborhood bookstore sent donations and notes of encouragement. People who had never purchased a single book from us shared our story because they believed in what we were building.

That is what real community support for local businesses can count on. Not a transaction. A relationship. And relationships do not disappear because of a fire.

It Is Hard to Overstate What This Felt Like

That is what real community support for local businesses can count on. Not a transaction. A relationship. And relationships do not disappear because of a fire.

The Story Reached Beyond Leander

We were moved by how quickly the word traveled. Local and regional outlets covered the story, and reading those articles was humbling. Each one brought more people into the conversation and into the effort to help.

Fox 7 Austin covered the fire and the investigation. They also aired a video report that showed the scope of what was lost. CBS Austin reported on how the fire wiped out our entire inventory just days before move-in. MSN picked up the story and expanded its reach further. The Austin American-Statesman ran a piece on what the delay means and what the road ahead looks like , framed with care and honesty.

We are grateful to every journalist who covered our story. We are even more grateful to every person who read it and then did something. The community supports local businesses like ours, which depend on and are amplified by those outlets, and this is a big part of why we are still standing and still planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is Lioness Books planning to open?

We are opening Saturday, April 25th, 2026.

2. Is the bookmobile still operating during the rebuild?

Yes. The bookmobile is still out in the community, and we intend to keep it that way. Upcoming events and locations will be posted on our social media pages and website as they are confirmed.

3. How can I help Lioness Books rebuild?

The most direct way to help right now is through our GoFundMe campaign. Every contribution goes toward replacing the inventory and materials lost in the fire. Beyond donations, sharing our story and following along on social media keeps the momentum going and means more than you know.

4. Were any books or inventory saved from the fire?

The fire broke out in the on-site storage building. Every single thing scheduled to go into the brick-and-mortar location was a total loss. We are incredibly grateful that the mobile bookmobile trailer and the actual physical store building were both safe and undamaged. That means the foundation we need to rebuild is still intact, and the bookmobile is still out there serving the community while we work on what comes next.

5. Will Lioness Books still carry the same selection of used books and diverse titles?

Absolutely. Our mission has not changed. Lioness Books will continue to offer affordable used books that celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and a love of reading for all ages. That is the heart of why we started this, and no fire changes that. As we rebuild our inventory, we will also be looking at ways the community can get involved in shaping what comes next, so stay tuned.

We Are Coming Back, Stronger Than We Were

There will be a delay. The opening we had planned will look different, and that is okay.

The building is still standing. The team is still here. The mission has not changed by a single word. Lioness Books was built on the belief that books and community belong together, that a bookstore can be a resource, a gathering place, and a small act of care for the people it serves. That belief did not burn.

We are deliberately rebuilding our inventory and timeline, not rushing. We will share updates here and across our social channels as things develop. What we know is that the community supports local business owners' dreams, but rarely seen, has given us something no fire can touch: proof that this store matters, and proof that Leander is the exact kind of place we always believed it was.

A lioness does not stop. She finds her footing, and she comes back for her pride.

We are coming back. And we are coming back for you.

With full hearts and endless gratitude, The Lioness Books Team

Lioness Spotlights Local: Leander Pride

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:30:56 GMT

President Shannon Whiting and Vice President Rachelle Dorr of Leander Pride talk with us about the inception of Leander Pride , its evolution, future plans, and how to get involved. Leander Pride’s primary mission is to make Leander a more inclusive and safe place for LGBTQIA+ residents and community members. At Lioness Books we strive to be a third space for all, and our missions and values are aligned with Leander Pride!

Visit our mobile bookstore at the Leander and Cedar Park Pride Fest on April 18th at Lakeline Park from 2pm-8pm!

AS: Can you start by introducing yourselves and telling us about your backgrounds?

Shannon: It started with my wife Rachelle telling me one summer day in 2023: “I want you to hold me accountable to something.” That was a weird thing for her to say.

Rachelle: I’d spotted Leander Pride’s call to volunteers on Facebook and decided as a lesbian in a small, non-welcoming town, it was something I needed to do.

Shannon: The day of the volunteer event, I told her, “Let’s go!” and sure enough, she groaned in response.

Rachelle: After spending years in Leander feeling isolated from safe people and spaces, I had slowly turned inward without even realizing it. The idea of getting involved felt right, but after staying guarded in my own city for so long, the uncertainty of new people in a new space was enough to make me hesitate. But we went and met some wonderful people who were trying to make Leander a more accepting place for us.

AS: Can you start by introducing yourselves and telling us about your backgrounds?

Shannon: It started with my wife Rachelle telling me one summer day in 2023: “I want you to hold me accountable to something.” That was a weird thing for her to say.

Rachelle: I’d spotted Leander Pride’s call to volunteers on Facebook and decided as a lesbian in a small, non-welcoming town, it was something I needed to do.

Shannon: The day of the volunteer event, I told her, “Let’s go!” and sure enough, she groaned in response.

Shannon: We both signed up to help with Pride Fest that year, and it was really fulfilling helping a small group of likeminded folks make a big difference.

Rachelle: Fast forward to September 2025 and we were invited to apply for leadership roles. It’s not something we had planned for ourselves, but we could see the need to make this city a happier place for queer people to live.

Shannon: It could easily be a fulltime job for both of us, but our roles are volunteer-based, so we both work during the day - me in HR and Rachelle in project management.

Rachelle: Turns out our professional skills have come in really handy for helping Leander Pride grow.

AS: Introduce us to Leander Pride! What are your values as an organization?

Rachelle: Our main mission is to make Leander a more inclusive place for LGBTQIA+ residents and community members, and our values stay grounded in that - inclusivity, visibility and solidarity.

AS: How has your non-profit organization changed or evolved since it formed in 2021?

Shannon: In 2019 a drag story hour at the public library was cancelled by protestors; in support of the protestors, the mayor froze all library room reservations and fired the librarian. That’s when the LGBTQ+ residents and allies in Leander started finding each other. They formed a Facebook group to organize activism and stay informed about local politics. By 2021, they started planning their first Pride Fest for May of 2022 and formed Leander Pride.

One of the first things we noticed when we stepped in as president and vice president six months ago is how many people in town had no idea Leander Pride even existed. We’ve since put visibility at the forefront of our goals. Letting people know we’re here and just as much a part of the community as everyone else is a big part of advocacy. In six months, we’ve gone from a small board of 8 to a volunteer group of 40+ people! Leander Pride started with a strong value in standing up for our marginalized queer community, and that’s still central to everything we do.

AS: How do you feel like Leander has become more inclusive since the inception of Leander Pride?

Rachelle: The progress has been gradual since the drag cancellation in 2019, but so promising! We’ve had two incredible mayors, Christine DeLisle (2021 - 2025) and Na’Cole Thompson as solid allies, and both guest speakers at our festivals. We also recently felt unexpected support from the Leander Chamber of Commerce; when they heard an attendee at Leander Local Fest said something hateful to us, multiple Chamber members reached out to apologize and ask how they could better support us.

AS: Tell us about the 2026 Leander & Cedar Park Pride Fest!

Shannon: We’re so excited for April 18! This party is going to be bigger and better than anything we’ve done so far, and we’re putting in all the work with Cedar Park Pride to make sure it is! We’re hosting it at Cedar Park’s newest park - Lakeline Park. It’s big and beautiful and the perfect place for our 800+ attendees to experience live music from local queer artists (with big names like Mama Duke!), a vendor market, food trucks, and live entertainment like stilt walkers, line dancing lessons and a magician. We can’t wait for queer people in Leander and Cedar Park to feel totally celebrated for a day. When you live in a town that doesn’t always welcome you, that’s the least your advocacy group can do for you.

AS: Do you have any plans or goals for 2026 that you’d like to share?

Rachelle: As soon as Pride Fest is over, we’re digging back into the day-to-day advocacy, which is quieter, but often more important than an annual festival. In September we hosted a Pride Ideas Party where we heard what kind of events and projects people wanted to see from us. We’re excited to pull that list up and get to work on things like cleaning up a park together, video game meetups, book clubs and happy hours - the kinds of things that keep a minority group active and present in the city.

AS: How can people get involved, join, and support Leander Pride?

Rachelle: We always need sponsors to keep things running! Financial support makes so many things possible - from rental spaces where we can safely meet to supplies for volunteers, to every operational detail of our upcoming Pride Fest. We still need sponsors for Pride Fest, in fact! Check out all their options at leanderpride.com/sponsors .

Shannon: And for hands-on involvement, you can start by filling out an interest form on leanderpride.com/volunteer . Once you do that, we’ll reach out to chat about all the volunteer options that will best fit you and your interests, skills and availability. Even with all our growth, staying personable is super important to us.

Lioness Spotlights Local: Shiela Mae Proenza

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Local bookish illustrator and small business owner Shiela Mae Proenza, (ArtsByBooksnmae) talks with us about her inspiration and creative process behind her craft. Lioness Books will carry her work in-store at our brick and mortar soon!

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

SMP: “Hi! I’m Shiela Mae Proenza, the artist and creator behind ArtsByBooksnmae. I’m a local bookish illustrator and small business owner who designs bookmarks, stickers, greeting cards, Kindle inserts, and other cozy paper goods inspired by my love for reading.

I started my shop in 2023 while balancing my full time job, and what began as a creative outlet quickly grew into a community of fellow book lovers who connect through art, stories, and shared imagination.”

AS: How would you describe the work that you do? Walk us through your creative process.

SMP: “My work is whimsical, cozy, and deeply inspired by books. I love creating illustrations that feel like they belong inside a story; fairies reading in forests, blooming book stacks, magical readers, soft seasonal themes.

My creative process usually starts with a feeling. Sometimes it’s a book I just finished, a season that’s changing, or even a simple moment like drinking coffee while reading. I sketch digitally, refine the details, play with color palettes, and then turn the illustration into tangible pieces like bookmarks or stickers.

Everything I create is designed to feel like a little piece of comfort for readers.”

AS: What was the initial inspiration for your craft?

SMP: “My biggest inspiration has always been books and the emotions they create. As a romance and fantasy reader, I’m constantly inspired by slow-burn love stories, magical worlds, and gentle reminders of hope and growth.

I wanted to create art that feels like the feeling of finishing a book you loved; warm, comforting, and a little magical. That’s really how ArtsByBooksnmae was born.”

AS: What was the initial inspiration for your craft?

I wanted to create art that feels like the feeling of finishing a book you loved; warm, comforting, and a little magical. That’s really how ArtsByBooksnmae was born.”

A S: What do you find most enjoyable and fulfilling about your art?

SMP: “What fulfills me the most is knowing that my art brings joy to other readers.

When someone uses my bookmark in their current read, decorates their Kindle with one of my inserts, or uses my book review notepad for their book club discussions that means everything to me. Hearing that kids are using my book review sheets in libraries or that readers feel more inspired to reflect on their books because of something I created truly touches my heart.

Every joyful review, every message, every tag from someone using my product fuels my passion even more. It gives me the motivation to continue creating and to keep showing up for this community.

Knowing that my art sparks someone’s reading journey even in a small way is absolutely the most fulfilling part of what I do.”

AS: How can people support local artists like you?

SMP: “The biggest ways to support local artists are:

Shopping small when you can
Sharing our work on social media (@arts.by.booksnmae)
Leaving reviews in my Etsy
Telling a friend

Even something as simple as liking, commenting, or saving a post on my Instagram helps (@arts.by.booksnmae) more than people realize. Community support is what allows small artists to continue creating.”

Lioness Books supports local artists. Uplifting local artists is crucial to not only the growth and strength of the greater arts community, but free expression and democracy. Purchasing from independent artists helps us move away from monopolies like Amazon and keeps our economy local.

Lioness Spotlights Local: L.B. Benson

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:55:23 GMT

Lioness Spotlights Local Author L.B. Benson in Austin, Texas

Local romance author L.B. Benson shares the inspiration for her Andromeda’s Account series, favorite moments from her paranormal romance trilogy The Wolves of Woodbine Hollow, and the art of blending genres to create something new. All of Benson’s books are available for purchase on our Bookshop site!

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

LB: “I’m a native Austinite and got my degree in English from the University of Texas at Austin after exploring several other majors (my final choice should have surprised no one as I’ve always had my nose in a book!). I enjoy reading most genres and hadn’t seriously considered writing until pos-Pandemic when the inspiration for Andromeda’s Account hit.”

AS: What was the initial inspiration for your debut novel The Bartered Soul and your Andromeda’s Account series?

LB: “I was inspired by a couple of songs on a playlist while driving between Austin and Waco to visit family. I originally thought about writing a relationship between a pirate and a brothel owner, but everything twisted and re-formed to create the dynamic between Captain Lennox and Andromeda. I was also inspired by myth and history, so I had fun creating a new world from those facets. After the idea came to me I couldn’t stop writing!”

AS: What was the initial inspiration for your debut novel The Bartered Soul and your Andromeda’s Account series?

AS: Tell us about your paranormal romance trilogy, The Wolves of Woodbine Hollow. Do you have any favorite moments from writing it that you’d like to share?

LB: “This series was something I wanted to write because Andromeda’s Account can be heavy with its themes and I needed something lighter after finishing that story. I had the initial image of Shane riding up on his motorcycle and being immediately smitten with his new neighbor, that, and their first date, were my launch point for the series.”

AS: What intrigues you about blending fantasy and romance?

LB: “I like that you can create a world that is as familiar or as fantastic as you want and let people fill in with their imagination. Many of the elements in Andromeda’s Account are inspired by historical events/actions, etc, but I was able to meld them to create something new. Plus, I always love a touch of magic. I enjoy romance elements because the bond between the characters can really up the ante, and with a romance, no matter how bad things might seem, you know there’s a happy ever after waiting at the end.”

AS: Can you tell us anything about the final book in The Wolves of Woodbine Hollow trilogy, and when do you plan to publish it?

LB: “The final book is in its very early stages while I work on a different book. I know where the story is going, and anyone who has read the end of Neon Elegies will know who the characters are, it’s just a matter of how they get there and how all the ends tie up for the characters we’ve met throughout the series. I hope to finish it this year and publish it in early 2027.”

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

LB: “It’s always a thrill when readers enjoy our work. I love getting little messages in my DMs about things people liked/characters they loved. Those kinds of things can really keep an author going. Buying from/ordering from local booksellers is always helpful, and leaving reviews/posts/recommendations to spread the word about our books is always helpful!”

Lioness Books supports local authors. Uplifting local authors is crucial to not only the growth and strength of the greater literary community, but free expression and democracy. Ordering from independent booksellers helps us move away from monopolies like Amazon and keeps our economy local. Visit our Bookshop site to purchase any of L.B. Benson’s books!

Lioness Spotlights Local: Tanya Athar-Jogee

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:19:41 GMT

Local Author Spotlight: Tanya Athar Jogee in Austin, Texas

Local author Tanya Athar-Jogee talks with us about her and her father, Aqueel "Al" Athar’s debut novel, Tiny Glimmers of Light. Tanya is doing an Author Talk at our brick and mortar store on April 15th from 6:00pm to 7:30pm! Purchase Tiny Glimmers of Light on our Bookshop site here.

208 N Gabriel St, Leander, Texas

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

TJ: “I was born and raised in Calgary, Canada, and I did my undergraduate degree in journalism from Concordia University in Montreal, where I won the award for most outstanding journalism graduate in my class. I also have an MS in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University in Chicago. I've spent most of my career in corporate communications, however over the past few years I've ventured back into journalism and creative writing. I've published several op-eds on social issues, culture, faith, and identity in publications including Newsweek, Common Dreams and Truthout.

I’m also dabbling back into poetry, and I seem to be gravitating toward themes that explore culture and identity. I took a creative writing class in high school, and I’m rediscovering how satisfying and meaningful poems are for me as an expressive art form. On a personal note, I’m married and I have two kids and a cat. My husband Faizal works in IT and loves hiking and the outdoors, my daughter Summer is studying kinesiology at UT Austin and my son Rayan is a sixth grader and a performing artist who has been in several professional shows. There always seems to be an upcoming audition, rehearsal or performance on our calendar.”

AS: Tell us about your debut novel, “Tiny Glimmers of Light”! What was the initial inspiration for it?

TJ: “Tiny Glimmers of Light is co-authored by me and my dad, Aqueel "Al" Athar. My dad came up with the original story, structure and main characters. He's always been an avid storyteller as well as a news junkie, and he thought up the idea when attacks on girls’ schools by extremist, misogynistic groups in the NW part of Pakistan were all over the headlines. He sent me his draft and asked me to provide feedback on it. I put a lot of work into developing complex characters, a vivid setting and a solid plot (which included adding in a final chapter and epilogue). That’s how I ended up becoming a co-author. We’re proud of this book because it addresses a lot of traditionally taboo subjects, and it offers a tender - yet unapologetic - look at Pakistan and its people. It sheds light on how the most vulnerable in our communities can easily land in undesirable circumstances and be forced to face difficult (or impossible) choices. And importantly, it also serves to counter Islamophobia by dispelling Western misperceptions and generalizations about Muslims and Islam. Since our book came out in October 2025, it has consistently received great ratings and reviews. We are super excited about that!”

AS: Tell us about your debut novel, “Tiny Glimmers of Light”! What was the initial inspiration for it?

AS: What was it like to co-author with your father? Do you have any favorite moments from writing the book that you’d like to share?

TJ: “Overall it was great to collaborate on the book with my dad. His original draft laid out his vision for the characters and plot line, and my extensive journalism and writing background gave me the chops to create a well-researched, polished story. We really didn’t have any major disagreements. During the writing and editing process, nearly every time I came to him with suggested revisions, he responded with “Looks good! That’s much better than what I had before.” He really respected my ideas on how to shape the story. In retrospect, though, that might have been partly because he wanted to get the book published quickly and he didn’t want to slow down the process by going back and forth. Lol.”

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

TJ: “This year, I plan to extensively promote and market Tiny Glimmers of Light. I might be able to convince my dad that we should start working on a sequel to our book - although so far he isn’t biting. :) I’m also planning to focus a lot on my poetry journey. I’m hoping to have written enough poems in the next year or two to publish my first anthology.”

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

TJ: “Buy and read our Tiny Glimmers of Light! Post about it on any/all of your personal social media channels - Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, LinkedIn - as well as on websites where you can leave a book review. Rave to your friends and family about our book. Buy lots of additional copies and give them away as gifts! Come to our book events and bring your friends, neighbors and pets. Follow us on social media. And drop us a line to let us know how much you love and admire us. Just kidding (sort of).”

Lioness Books supports local authors. Uplifting local authors is crucial to not only the growth and strength of the greater literary community, but free expression and democracy. Ordering from independent booksellers helps us move away from monopolies like Amazon and keeps our economy local. Purchase Tiny Glimmers of Light on our Bookshop site here.

Lioness Spotlights Local: Kevin Hwang

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:08:13 GMT

Local Author Spotlight: Kevin Hwang in Austin, Texas

Local author Kevin Hwang talks with us about the inspiration for and favorite parts of writing his medical thriller, The Regression Strain . Kevin’s book is available for purchase on our Bookshop site here .

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

KH: “I'm an internal medicine physician and professor at McGovern Medical School in Houston, which means I treat patients, work on academic medicine projects, and teach the next generation of doctors. Back at Rice University, I couldn’t choose between science and writing, so I majored in Biochemistry and English-a combination that set the foundation for writing medical thrillers much, much later. I dabbled in short stories and eventually published a few. My first was “Details” in The First Line, and I still have that $5 check framed. Then “Match Hopes” appeared in The Other Side of the Doorbell anthology. Along the way, I continued to publish research papers.”

AS: Tell us about your book, The Regression Strain. What was the initial inspiration for it?

KH: “The doctor-on-a-cruise-ship idea took shape before the pandemic reached US shores. It took me about seven years to write the novel, including editing, rewriting, and long spans away from writing when life and work took priority. There was a lot of heartache and joy in that process. The grueling years of residency influenced Dr. Peter Palma's backstory. I could not help but draw on the memories of bone-deep exhaustion, self-doubt, and the burden of responsibility in caring for sick patients.

The Regression Strain follows Dr. Peter Palma, a Houston physician haunted by his brother's death, who takes a job on a transatlantic cruise hoping for a fresh start. Instead, he faces a nightmare where passengers and crew start acting in bizarre and increasingly violent ways. They lose control of their impulses, and that makes for a very disturbing and terrifying journey. There’s nowhere to escape when you’re halfway between Copenhagen and New York.

The book recently won first place in the 2025 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards in the Thriller category, the Gold Medal in the 2025 Readers' Favorite International Book Award Contest in the General Thriller category, and Medical Thriller of the Year from the 2025 BestThrillers Book Awards contest.”

AS: Do you have any favorite moments from your novel-or writing it-that you can share with us?

KH: “One of my favorite parts is the very first scene, when Peter boards the ship having forgotten both his stethoscope and his antidepressant medication. That was just about the worst way he could have started his gig. Soon after that, he attends the obligatory assembly drill. He looks out at thousands of passengers packed on deck and realizes how many people are under his care.

I also enjoyed writing scenes where Peter and his sister Natalia use AI to analyze patterns in the medical records, looking for clues. Peter gets help from a wise pastor and treats an anxious patient who wonders how far the authorities will go to keep the world safe. Those were fun to write.”

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

KH: “I’m working on another story featuring Peter and other characters from The Regression Strain. It’s set in Texas. I can’t reveal further details because the project is still embryonic.”

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

KH: “If you enjoyed a book, recommend it to friends who might like it. Leave a thoughtful and supportive review somewhere. Just a few sentences would mean the world. Reviews don't just help other readers discover the book-they signal to the arcane algos that a book is worth recommending, which makes a difference for independent authors.

Consider signing up for the author’s newsletter. Mine is at KevinHwang.com and I share updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and thoughts on other books I'm reading.

Finally, check out independent bookstores like Lioness Books! They're the ones who hand-sell books, champion local authors, and build reading communities.”

Independent Bookstore Supports Local Authors & Community

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:39:14 GMT

How Independent Bookstores Support Local Authors and Communities in Austin, Texas

An independent bookstore supports local authors and artists by featuring their work, hosting signings, and helping them connect with readers. We give artists space to showcase their creations and organize events that bring people together. This article explores how independent bookstores support local authors, artists, and communities, strengthen the economy, uplift new voices, and offer experiences that large retailers can't match.

Why Independent Bookstores Are Vital to Local Communities

Libro.fm's reported growth in 2025 points to a renewed interest in supporting community-rooted bookstores.

Independent bookstores act as anchors for neighborhood connection, creativity, and learning. Unlike large retailers, we are locally owned and community-driven, often reflecting the values, voices, and interests of the people we serve. An independent bookstore supports local authors by creating direct pathways between creators and readers.

Key local bookstore economic contributions include:

Offering curated selections based on local readership
Creating safe, inclusive spaces for dialogue and exploration
Hosting events that foster education and cultural literacy
Supporting local talent, ensuring an independent bookstore supports local authors and artists, is visible and impactful

Platforms like Libro.fm further expand this independent bookstore community impact by offering audiobook options that directly support independent bookstores. Instead of defaulting to large corporate platforms, Libro.fm lets customers choose a local bookstore to support with every audiobook purchase . This partnership model helps preserve neighborhood bookstores' financial independence and gives readers a conscious alternative to support the voices and spaces we value.

How Lioness Books Supports Local Authors and Creators

Lioness Books was founded with a clear mission: to elevate local voices and make books more accessible across the community. As a mobile used bookseller , it meets readers where they are and makes space for authors whose work reflects regional experiences and diverse perspectives.

Here’s how Lioness Books leads in independent bookstore supports local authors:

Featuring self-published and small-press authors on mobile shelves
Offering book placement without the barriers typical of large distributors
Promoting local titles at pop-ups and markets across the region
Collaborating directly with writers to understand and represent their work

Local creators gain visibility, credibility, and sales opportunities they might not access through traditional outlets. Readers benefit from authentic, relevant stories they can’t find on algorithm-driven platforms.

Top Events at Independent Bookstores That Boost Local Engagement

Community events are a key part of how an independent bookstore supports local authors and deepens engagement. These gatherings offer more than marketing; we build relationships and foster shared learning.

Common high-impact events include:

Author Readings and Book Signings : Introduce new voices and connect readers with the people behind the stories
Writing Workshops : Offer skill-building and peer feedback in a supportive environment
Local Book Fairs : Showcase multiple authors and artists in one accessible space
Themed Book Clubs : Encourage community discussion around local or underrepresented narratives

Lioness Books curates events that match the interests of each neighborhood it serves. Whether through a weekend market or a library partnership, these experiences bring books to life.

The Economic Impact of Independent Bookstores on Local Communities

Every dollar spent at an independent bookstore stays in the local economy longer. Unlike large retailers, these businesses reinvest their revenue into their communities by hiring locally, sourcing from nearby vendors, and partnering with other small enterprises.

Key economic benefits:

Job Creation : Supporting employment for local staff, authors, and artists
Local Spending : Encouraging more money to circulate within the community
Small Business Growth : Offering shelf space or collaboration to other local entrepreneurs

When an independent bookstore supports local authors, it’s part of a broader system of economic empowerment. Mobile models like Lioness Books extend this impact by reaching communities that may not have access to brick-and-mortar literary spaces .

How Independent Bookstores Create Unique Customer Experiences

Independent bookstores stand out by making the book-buying experience personal, meaningful, and reflective of the local community. At Lioness Books, each pop-up shop is curated for the neighborhood, drawing on local interests and seasonal themes that show how an independent bookstore supports local authors through intentional selection.

Elements of a unique experience include:

Personalized Recommendations : Staff and owners often know their readers and can suggest titles that fit their interests
Community-Centered Curation : Inventory reflects regional authors, issues, and artistic movements
A Welcoming, Low-Pressure Environment : Visitors are encouraged to browse, ask questions, and linger

This personalized approach builds long-term loyalty. It also supports discovery, introducing readers to local authors and artists they might never find through major online platforms.

The Role of Independent Bookstores in Supporting Local Artists

Beyond books, independent bookstores play a vital role in elevating local visual artists, illustrators, and makers. By offering space to display or sell creative work, we help artists gain exposure and connect with new audiences.

How Lioness Books contributes:

Partnering with visual artists for cover design, bookmarks, and promotional materials
Featuring local artwork at pop-up events
Creating collaborative storytelling opportunities between writers and visual artists

This integrated support reinforces the cultural importance of independent bookstores that support local authors and creative communities alike. It turns each visit into a multidimensional experience.

Why Supporting Independent Bookstores Matters for Your Community

Supporting independent bookstores is an investment in your community’s cultural and economic future. These stores preserve access to diverse stories, encourage lifelong learning, and create spaces that reflect your neighborhood’s unique character.

Why it matters:

Literacy and Education : Offering affordable, relevant books for all ages
Cultural Representation : Uplifting local voices and marginalized perspectives
Community Resilience : Strengthening local economies and relationships

When you choose an independent bookstore that supports local authors, you’re helping to shape a literary ecosystem rooted in authenticity, accessibility, and care.

How Community Engagement at Lioness Books Drives Long-Term Success

Lioness Books succeeds by building strong, local relationships through a community-first approach that shows how an independent bookstore supports local authors in real, measurable ways.

Here’s how that community engagement with independent bookstores translates into long-term success:

Consistent Local Presence: Lioness Books brings books directly to neighborhoods, schools, markets, and community events, meeting readers where they are while reinforcing how an independent bookstore supports local authors beyond a traditional storefront.
Responsive Feedback Loops: Customer and author input directly shapes inventory, event programming, and partnership decisions, ensuring offerings stay relevant.
Support for Local Talent: Through visible, accessible promotion and collaboration, Lioness strengthens the ecosystem of support for independent bookstores, local authors, and creators.
Trust-Building Through Repetition: Familiarity builds loyalty. When readers see Lioness show up regularly with thoughtful recommendations and local titles, they return, and they tell others.
Sustainable, Values-Driven Growth: Rather than chasing trends, Lioness focuses on steady, community-aligned growth. This creates a strong foundation for lasting impact.
Lioness Books proves that when bookstores put people first, loyalty follows. With each pop-up, partnership, and conversation, it demonstrates what a meaningful independent bookstore supports local authors and achieves for readers and communities alike.

Support Local Stories and Be Part of Your Community’s Literary Future

Independent bookstores thrive when communities engage with them. By visiting Lioness Books, attending local events, sharing the work of regional authors, or simply spreading the word, you help strengthen a bookstore model built on trust, access, and local impact.

Your involvement shows how an independent bookstore supports local authors, ensuring that meaningful stories continue to find their readers, right where they belong.

See Where Lioness Books Is Popping Up Next

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do independent bookstores support local authors and artists?

Independent bookstores support local authors and artists by featuring their books in-store and online, hosting readings and signings, and promoting their work through curated recommendations. We provide access to audiences that authors may not reach otherwise and help build long-term visibility within the community.

2. Why do Indie Bookstores' author events matter to the community?

Indie bookstores' author events reflect the identity and needs of the neighborhoods they serve. They create spaces for connection, offer educational and cultural programming, and support the local economy by reinvesting revenue into nearby businesses, authors, and artists.

3. What events help bookstores engage local artists?

Events such as art shows, collaborative exhibits, live painting sessions, and cross-disciplinary showcases (e.g., poetry readings paired with visual art) give artists visibility and create engaging experiences for visitors. These events strengthen connections between the creative community and the public.

4. How can bookstores drive community growth?

Bookstores foster community growth by supporting literacy, promoting local talent, creating inclusive gathering spaces, and generating economic activity through local partnerships. Their presence contributes to a culturally vibrant, economically resilient community.

Key Takeaways

Independent bookstore support for local authors creates visibility, access, and long-term opportunity for emerging voices.
Events and curated offerings help bookstores connect communities through shared stories and creative expression.
Local economic impact grows when bookstores source from and collaborate with nearby writers, artists, and vendors.
Platforms like Libro.fm extend support by giving audiobook listeners a way to support independent bookstores.
Community-centered models, like Lioness Books, build trust, loyalty, and sustainable relationships.
Supporting indie bookstores is an investment in education, culture, and local resilience.

7 Must‑Read Books to Help You Understand & Appreciate Bookbinding & Book Restoration

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:46:24 GMT

7 Must-Read Bookbinding Books for Beginners and Restoration

There’s something special about holding a book that was made, or saved, by hand. You can feel the care in every fold, stitch, and pressed page. As more people seek slower, hands-on hobbies, interest in the evolution of bookbinding and book restoration has begun to grow again.

Maybe you’re here because you want to make your own journals. Or perhaps you’ve found an old book that deserves a second life. Either way, this guide is a great place to start. We’ve picked out 7 must-read books that break down the craft in a simple, beginner-friendly way. Whether you're curious or ready to jump in, these books will help you learn, create, and appreciate the art of bookbinding.

7 Best Books on Bookbinding for Beginners

If you're just getting started with bookbinding or thinking about restoring a well-loved book, it can be hard to know where to begin. Experts wrote these books to share their skills with others, especially beginners.

Each one offers something different, from clear step-by-step guides to stories about how bookbinding has changed over time.

1. Bookbinding: A Step-by-Step Guide by Kathy Abbott

Kathy Abbott wrote this guide to make traditional bookbinding easier for beginners. It walks you through how to sew, glue, and finish different types of bindings using clear steps and photos. Abbott has taught bookbinding for years, and her teaching style shows in how she explains each part of the process.

Buy on Bookshop.org

2. Making Handmade Books by Alisa Golden

Alisa Golden created this book for people who love to make things with their hands. Inside, you’ll find over 100 book forms you can try, from simple folded pages to stitched books with covers. It’s full of projects you can do with everyday tools and paper. Golden is a teacher and artist who wanted to make book arts accessible to anyone.

Buy on Bookshop.org

3. The Art of the Fold by Hedi Kyle & Ulla Warchol

This book is about folding paper to make creative and useful book structures without glue or stitching. Hedi Kyle is a well-known book artist who spent years exploring how to turn a single sheet into something beautiful. Her daughter, Ulla, helped bring this collection together. They made it for anyone who wants to try bookbinding in a more creative, hands-on way.

Buy on Bookshop.org

4. A Historical Sketch of Bookbinding by S.T. Prideaux

S.T. Prideaux wrote this book to share how bookbinding has changed over time. It takes you through important styles, tools, and artists from different centuries. While it doesn’t teach how to bind a book yourself, it helps you understand where the craft came from and why it's worth keeping alive. If you love history or want to learn the roots of book design, this is a smart place to begin.

Buy on Bookshop.org

5. Book Repair and Restoration by Mitchell S. Buck

Mitchell Buck wrote this book to help people save the books they care about. It's focused on repair, how to fix torn pages, damaged spines, and loose covers. You’ll find tools, tips, and safe methods for working on books without causing more harm. This book is for anyone who wants to give new life to something old. If you've ever found a family book in need of care, this guide can help.

Buy on Bookshop.org

6. Introduction to Bookbinding & Custom Cases by Cindy Hollander

Cindy Hollander wanted to make bookbinding feel doable for beginners. The author sets up this book like a workshop. Each chapter guides you through a project that builds your skills. You'll learn how to create custom cases and covers using basic tools. Hollander’s approach is patient and encouraging, making it easy to follow along. It's a solid pick if you're interested in both making books and designing your own covers.

Buy on Bookshop.org

7. The Thames and Hudson Manual of Bookbinding by Arthur Johnson

Arthur Johnson’s guide is one of the classic introductions to bookbinding. It explains traditional techniques step by step, with helpful drawings that show exactly what to do. Johnson trained as a binder and teacher, and he wrote this book to make those skills available to anyone. It’s a thoughtful blend of craft and care, ideal if you're interested in the whole process, from folding paper to finishing a book that lasts.

Buy on Bookshop.org

Bookbinding Supplies You’ll See in These Books

One of the great things about learning from bookbinding books is that most of them include a complete list of tools and materials you’ll need. If you’re just starting, the lists may look long, but don’t worry. Many of the basics are affordable, easy to find, and don’t take up much space.

The authors wrote these books with beginners in mind, so they explain not only what to use but also how and why each tool matters.

Here are some of the most common supplies you’ll come across:

Bone folder - used to crease, fold, and smooth paper and fabric
Awl - a sharp tool that helps you make small holes for stitching
Linen thread - strong, flexible thread for sewing pages together
Bookbinding paper - heavier, often acid-free paper made to last
PVA glue - a flexible, fast-drying glue used for covers and spines
Book board and cover cloth - materials used to build sturdy covers

Some advanced books may mention a bookbinding machine , but for most beginners, simple hand tools are all you need. You can find these supplies online through craft stores or book arts suppliers. Many local art shops also carry kits that include the basics, which can be a helpful way to get started without having to guess what to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bookbinding Books

1. What are the cheapest bookbinding books?

Some of the most affordable bookbinding books are Making Handmade Books by Alisa Golden and Introduction to Bookbinding & Custom Cases by Cindy Hollander. Both offer clear instructions, require only simple tools, and include a wide range of beginner projects. These books are budget-friendly and provide a strong foundation without requiring expensive supplies.

2. Is it legal to rebind or repair books at home?

Yes, it is entirely legal to rebind or repair books you own. Many people do this to preserve family books, repair damaged spines, or give old books a fresh look. If you're planning to sell or distribute rebound books, make sure the original content is in the public domain or that you have the rights to use it.

3. What is the purpose of bookbinding?

Bookbinding turns loose pages into a finished, usable book. It protects the content, makes it easier to handle, and can even become part of the design. Beyond the practical side, bookbinding is also a creative craft. It gives people a way to build something lasting with their own hands.

4. Which bookbinding techniques are most beginner-friendly to learn from books?

The easiest methods for beginners are pamphlet stitch, Japanese stab binding, and simple case binding. These are often featured in starter books like Bookbinding: A Step-by-Step Guide and The Art of the Fold. These techniques use only a few tools and are great for learning the basics of sewing, folding, and assembling a book.

Explore Our Bookbinding Books for Sale

Getting started with bookbinding is easier when you have the right guide in your hands. Whether you want to make your own journals, try simple folding techniques, or repair a treasured book, the titles we’ve shared here are the perfect place to begin.

Reading these books not only teaches you valuable skills, but it also helps you slow down, create something with care, and understand the deeper benefits of reading books made by hand.

Browse our full collection .

Lioness Spotlights Local: Raven Vervain

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 20:47:46 GMT

Local author and poet Raven Vervain talks with us about her debut writing collection, The Murder in my Garden and her upcoming book, Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine (to be released on June 21, 2026) along with her zine-making process.

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

RV: “A little over a year ago, I started writing under the name Raven Vervain. But before Raven Vervain existed, I was a student in my last year of high school hoping to close out my childhood feeling confident about adulthood, and maybe looking to focus on something besides homework. My solution was writing my debut writing collection The Murder in my Garden. I dare to say it was one of the best decisions I have made.

Creative writing was present in my life long before my choice to write a poetry chapbook. In middle school, I joined a writing club, that I would eventually become an officer of, and participated multiple years in the youth NaNoWriMo challenge. It would be in high school that poetry would become my prominent writing style. I believe this shift happened because around the same time I began to listen to music that had heavy poetic form in their lyrics such as Destroy Boys, Lucy Dacus, and Mitski. Currently, I am trying to refine my writing style by reading more books and combining it with what I have learned about storytelling and poetry through music.

Particular topics in my work I naturally gravitate towards are exploring the healing process, coming to terms with my eventual death, and my connection with nature. Something new I have been focusing on through my writing however is my definition of forgiveness and if it even exists for me. I like playing around with nature related imagery and how it can help convey human struggle and success. Something I should add is that I don’t like restricting myself when it comes to writing. I am a multimedia writer. While poetry is typically my ballpark, I also enjoy delving into prose and short stories, especially horror short stories.

Outside of being a writer, I am a full time college student with big dreams of earning a doctorate regarding psychology, and I work part time as an after school assistant teacher. I can be found spending my free time at thrift stores, estate sales, record stores, cemeteries, and local coffee shops like Radio South and Captain Quack’s. I have bounced between places in the Texas Hill Country my entire life, but Austin has been my homebase since I was about seven. This city and its people are an important source of inspiration for me.”

AS: Tell us about your poetry chapbook, The Murder in my Garden. Do you have a favorite poem from it that you can share with us?

RV: “When I wrote The Murder in my Garden I was on the cusp of adulthood. I was going through the motions of graduating high school, getting my drivers license, and nervously anticipating adult life. This book will always have a soft spot in my heart not only because it was my first but also because it is the last creative piece from my childhood that embodies the person I used to be. Even though I dislike some creative choices I made with the book, The Murder in my Garden is my roots. I came up with the title The Murder in my Garden while driving home with my family in the Texas Hill Country. The phrase popped into my head and I liked the juxtaposition and double meanings of it. If this book had scents, they would be either wet graveyard dirt, hot earl grey tea, or a campfire on a cold night.

I have favorite poems for different reasons. My favorite poem structurally is “Small Clay Angels” , and my favorite poem to read is “Exorcism” , but my favorite poem overall out of The Murder in my Garden collection has to be the final one, “The Indigo Room” . It is about rising above your trauma and moving on with your life as a way to honor the version of yourself that was traumatized. Sometimes the music I am listening to while writing inspires the structure of my poems. While writing The “Indigo Room” , “Drinking Song” by Haley Heyenderickx was playing, the line: “There’s a light at the end where I know, where culprits on carpets make sense of it all, and the sky is all indigo” helped me write the first line of the poem: “There was an indigo room at the end of the world”. I didn’t know what it meant when I wrote it but I knew that I liked the flow of the words. I would describe my writing style as very spontaneous and nagging. I found this out about myself while writing The Murder in my Garden. When I get a certain string of words stuck in my head I feel almost forced to put them onto paper and figure out what they mean later. I believe these words come from my subconscious. “The Indigo Room” also features my favorite piece of artwork that I drew myself in the entire collection.

“The Indigo Room” is an emotionally intense poem for me, so I don’t like performing it in front of an audience. But, I wholeheartedly believe that poems have the power to stimulate conversations and bring awareness. That is my mission when I write poetry, “The Indigo Room” perfectly embodies that mission.”

The Indigo Room

There was an indigo room at the end of the world

The pith of my spirit lingered there alone

Hidden in my words that were stuck to the wall

Never to be held in the ears of some other

There was no comfort there at all

I had slept in that room for many nights before

Even now I can barely stomach the idea of it anymore

I can only remember the little stain of myself

From the bed and to the floor

There was no more light in that room anymore

Picking for the pith of my skin

I am prickling with nausea

There are needles and pins

In my bones and soul

Lost pieces of myself scratching for freedom

From this sullen tomb

The soul I bear outside the indigo room

Grew and learned to loom together

The bits of strings

Torn and ripped apart from behind me

Filling the empty gaps with wishing stars and dandelions

It learned to play with fire

And bought a box of matches

There was a light in the Indigo Room

From the fire, I set aflame

I am not fleeing, I am free

I know now who’s to blame

For my captivity, for my pain

Little girl, I hope you’re proud

Of the woman we both become

Like butterflies, our spirits can both fly away

From the ashes of what used to be

the end of the world

Recommended Listening for The Murder in my Garden

“I need to start a garden” by Haley Heyenderix (album)
“Songs” by Adrianne Lenker (album)
“Preacher’s Daughter” by Ethel Cain (album)
The songs “Haunted Home” and “Rows of Somebodies” by The Saga

AS: Walk us through your zine making process. How do your ideas become realized in the final physical product?

RV: “My zine creation process is still in its infancy, but I have been immersed in zine culture for about two years. I first heard about zines through a friend of mine, who created a zine club at our high school. I mainly used the club to hangout with my close friends and work on The Murder in my Garden , but I remember making one zine by myself about how to hunt ghosts. One of my favorite memories from that zine club is seeing the printed product of an “about zines” zine my friends and I all collaborated on. My addition to it was a poem.

Canva is my tool of choice for making zines. Mainly because the undo button is my best friend when I am in between ideas and that I get perfectionistic about my handwriting. I like taking up as much space as possible when I make zines. If I don’t use every page front to back, I feel like I am wasting paper. My major influences for the style of my zines are local independent magazines or zines that I have found in the free section at record stores or Half Price Books. Usually my zines include my writing, however I have been branching out lately. For my booth at Lone Star Zine Fest I included an Ethel Cain fanzine and “Camcorder Diary” that contained photos I took on my camcorder with descriptions. Zines are very charming to me because of their accessibility and handcrafted nature. They feel so much more genuine and relatable than other writing vessels that I have come in contact with.”

AS: Tell us about your upcoming book, Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine. What was the initial inspiration for it?

RV: “Similarly to The Murder in my Garden, Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine mysteriously appeared to me while in a car. My best friend was driving us home after we went skating at the Austin Roller Rink. It was like some “eureka!” moment for me. For a month or so before that, the two letter noun “Shotgun Spine” haunted my mind and I didn’t know what it meant until that car ride. It drove me crazy for that month. I won’t explain the meaning of the phrase “Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine” here because I like hearing people’s different interpretations of it. Everyone has a different answer, and I love it so much. I intend on explaining the meaning of the phrase on the last page of the collection. So, if you are reading this, and are interested in the true meaning of “Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine”, consider looking up my book on June 21st 2026.

Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine goes by many names such as Shotgun Spine for when I feel lazy or dry mouth and EHASFAS for when I have been writing on my computer for too long. As I am currently writing it, topics such as the meaning of forgiveness and acceptance, coming to terms with one’s eventual death, and living with trauma continue to be prevalent in my writing, except this book will be angerier in tone than The Murder in my Garden.

I’m striving to have this book be longer than my previous writing collection and I want to debut my potential with writing forms like prose and short stories. In addition, I intend on adapting my “Camcorder Diary” zine, that I mentioned earlier, into this book. If Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine had scents they would either be jasmine vanilla, rusted iron in the rain, or the aroma of a dusty vintage store specifically in South Austin.”

Recommended Listening for Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine

“Something to Consume” by Die Spitz (album)
“There’s a Monster” and “Faint Illusions” by Farmer’s Wife (albums)
“Unknown Rooms” by Chelsea Wolfe (album)
“Wiloughby Tucker, I’ll always love you” by Ethel Cain (album)

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

Raven Vervain’s Top 5 Recommendations for Supporting Local Authors:

Especially today, know your spending power, buy local if you can whenever you can.

Examples: Lioness Books, BookPeople, Reverie Books

Talk to us! It is easier to remember our writings when you have a personality attached to it.
For those with published works, leave us a review on Goodreads!
For those without published works, follow us on social media! Subscribe to our newsletters! (my newsletter is @ravenvervain on substack and it’s free to subscribe)
Bring our books to a book club! Make our works the center of attention in your circles!

Lioness Books supports local authors. Uplifting local authors is crucial to not only the growth and strength of the greater literary community, but free expression and democracy. Ordering from independent booksellers helps us move away from monopolies like Amazon and keeps our economy local. Visit our mobile bookstore to purchase a copy of Raven’s poetry chapbook!

Book Review: Train Dreams by Dennis Johnson

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:12:19 GMT

It struck like lightning up from the ground, staggering, absolutely beautiful, and leaving me stunned. Poetic expression as gorgeous as it was powerful, Train Dreams was a discovery of what I considered flawless art; a book crafted from perfect sentences, hewn into passages whose wake induced a visceral reaction inside me, an actual physical jolt that left me mystified, curious, and disappointed that the ending had crept up so soon. By the time it was over, I was overwhelmed by the power of it all and dazed from the poetics still ricocheting through me. I didn’t wait. I returned to page 3 and began again.

In the summer of 1917 Robert Grainier took part in an attempt on the life of a Chinese laborer.

Train Dreams by Denis Johnson has haunted me ever since. It has become part of that sacred gathering of books that never leave my reach; always at my bedside, or slipped into my backpack, accompanying me whether it be for work or vacation. I don’t know how many times I’ve read it, but some pages now hold more red ink than black, due to the times I’ve returned and annotated some new expression of brilliance I’ve found. It still topples mountains with its beauty and its confrontation of solitude and tragedy, and for me I find myself returning, drawing from it again and again, like a religious or philosophical text.

But to call Train Dreams simply a novella is to understate in its power. Published originally in The Paris Review in 2002 and later as a standalone novella in 2011, it possesses the vast and boundless scale of a great American epic, but Denis Johnson compresses it into a 116 page story that can be read in one sitting. With precise economy, it unveils itself as a work of profound American loneliness and loss. A tale set against the desolate backdrop of the Idaho panhandle and the upper Pacific Northwest in the early 20th century, Train Dreams is a glimpse of the era when manifest destiny was transitioning into the age of industry and the last of the American frontier was waning, as its borders pushed further and further west.

The story centers on Robert Grainier, a simple laborer who spends his life in the woods, logging, building railroads, and performing whatever manual labor is demanded of him. The arc of the story follows his life, from being orphaned as a child and sent to live with family members in Fry Idaho - he was six or possibly seven - through the trials of his adulthood. He is not a hero, nor is he particularly charismatic, but Johnson conveys Robert Grainer is a good man, a man of both empathy and reliance. He is a man defined by his essential solitude, and carved from the same hard, unforgiving wood as the wilderness he inhabits.

But Robert Grainer is also a man marked and haunted by tragedy. From leaving a man to die alone as a teenager, and years later, helping fellow railroad workers attempt to take the life of a Chinese laborer accused of thievery, Grainer felt he was perhaps cursed, and it is this sense of doom, of some invisible sin trailing behind him, that is manifested into the deepest wound of his life: the loss of his wife, Gladys, and their infant daughter. It is the tragedy that shapes him more than any other, and the filter through which the rest of his years are looked upon.

While Granier is away during logging season, a fire sweeps through the valley he calls home, devouring his wife, daughter, and every physical trace of their existence. In confronting the fire and what follows, the splendor of Dennis Johnson’s craft and his ability to cultivate devastation from perfect and poetically concise sentences is undeniable. This is evident in his haunting recollection of the aftermath:

All his life Robert Granier would remember vividly the burned valley at sundown, the most dreamlike business he’d ever witnessed waking - the brilliant pastels of the last light overhead, some clouds high and white, catching daylight from beyond the valley, others ribbed and gray and pink, the lowest of them rubbing the peaks of Bussard and Queen mountains; and beneath this wonderful sky the black valley, utterly still, the train moving through it making a great noise but unable to wake this dead world.

This disaster doesn't trigger a dramatic break; rather it initiates a long/slow process of quiet endurance that is essentially the remainder of Grainier’s life. He becomes an apparition, moving through and bearing witness to progress of the twentieth century - airplanes, automobiles, radio waves, etc. - while trying to hold onto an old world vanishing before his eyes. His tragedy becomes inseparable from the violent changes that overtook and reshaped the American wilderness; from the logging camps who thinned the forests, to the railways who knew no mercy as they cut across woodlands and carved their way through the wild mountains of the West. Grainier’s grief becomes a meditation not only on human loneliness, but on the attrition of the wilderness itself.

Grainier, the logger, sees the forests vanish under the fire and saw and expansion of the 1920s. This resonates loudly today as we watch the ongoing struggles of our national forests, who are more vulnerable than ever due to accelerating climate change, historic droughts, and increasingly common and devastating wildfires. Grainier’s lonely endurance is a powerful metaphor on the constant struggle of progress vs the natural world, and the unavoidable slow-death of all wild country and frontiers. With a poet’s eye, Johnson chronicles the hinge-point when the American landscape became subjugated to industry, and when the last of the wild had begun to be counted, claimed, and consumed; challenges that continue to trouble us today. Through it all, Johnson offers the train as a constant symbol of progress: the man-made mechanism which delivers civilization while relentlessly carrying away things that truly matter to our souls.

But the greatest magic of Train Dreams rests in Johnson’s prose: profound, lyrical, sparse, precise, and luminous. Never does he overreach nor pass off an unnecessary word. Instead, his power is drawn from lines distilled and images stripped to their primal essence. With Johnson, every word counts, and brilliance touches every page. It shines undeniably in his use of the early 20th Century vernacular of the common man, and how it is all delivered with a mystical/spiritual infusion that causes it to feel ethereal. Johnson even touches Marquez-like magical realism with events like the appearance of the wolf-girl, which is never explained, but instead treated as just another strange element entwined into the reality of Grainier’s world.

As it moves toward its close, Johnson’s restraint becomes the source of the book’s magnitude. Grainier does not conquer anything, does not transcend his suffering, does not demand an audience for his pain. Instead he endures, quietly in a world that continues to move relentlessly beneath his feet. Johnson renders him as one of the many anonymous figures who built the West, labored in its woods, built and rode its rails, and then vanished, seemingly without a trace. Yet, within Johnson’s voice, Grainier feels historic. His life is stripped of grand spectacle, and instead becomes a lens through which Johnson has us examine solitude, resilience, and the taming of the American frontier.

Beyond, he saw the Canadian Rockies still sunlit, snow peaked, a hundred miles away, as if the earth were in the midst of its creation, the mountains taking their substance out of the clouds. He’d never seen so grand a prospect. The forests that filled his life were so thickly populous and so tall that generally they blocked him from seeing how far away the world was, but right now it seemed clear there were mountains enough for everybody to get their own.

When Train Dreams was released as a standalone novella in 2011, it was immediately recognized as something extraordinary. Named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 2012, critics hailed it as a modern masterpiece. These feelings are still universal in 2025, with Johnson’s words finding life on screen in an adaptation by Netflix, directed by Clint Bentley and starring Joel Edgerton as Grainier and Felicity Jones as Gladys.

Initially I was skeptical, judging even before I saw the trailer. There’s no way they can match the intense beauty that Johnson commands, I told a friend, while promising her I would keep my cynical remarks and all complaints and sarcasm to a minimum when we watched it together.

Thanksgiving was that moment of truth. As ready as I was to curse Netflix and all involved in their inability to translate the majesty of Johnson’s words, I couldn’t. No, it is not a scene by scene recreation of the novella, but it does follow the story’s overall arc and feel. There are characters and actions rearranged, with some noticeably absent, but still, between the stunning cinematography, the subtle score, poignant acting, and Will Patton’s folk-mystic narration, the film conveys onscreen the high-sorcery that is Johnson’s writing. It is a worthy tribute to the source material (a rarity among book adaptations) and it perfectly captures the atmosphere of desolate beauty and grief that defines Grainier’s world. The film delivers a visual language that is a worthy accompaniment to Johnson’s brilliance.

Still, it is ultimately the book that provides the story's soul. The film gives us sight, but only the spare, deliberate rhythm of Johnson’s written word can deliver the intimacy and power that truly is Train Dreams. More than a decade later and it is a work that continues to haunt. A love story, a ghost story, a story of endurance, and a lament on the vanishing of the wild, all of it held together with Johnson’s distilled sentences and transcendent vision. But, above everything, Train Dreams is the story of a simple, modest man, who with Johnson’s pen, becomes someone mythic. Through his eyes and the story’s poetics we bear witness to the dignity of life lived on the edge of nature and an ever-modernizing world… and because of Johnson’s genius, we never forget.

So, if you enjoyed the film, remember the true, haunting experience lies in the pages. Train Dreams can be ordered directly from our website www.lionessbookstx.com .

Train Dreams - Physical Book

Train Dreams - Audio Book

Train Dreams - EBook

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15 Classic Christmas Books of All Time You Should Be Reading Now

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 20:33:02 GMT

15 Classic Christmas Books You Should Read This Holiday Season

Christmas books have a way of making the season feel even more special. Maybe it’s hearing a story by the fireplace or quietly reading by the tree lights. These books bring comfort, wonder, and a touch of magic. They remind us what matters most: family, giving, hope, and some holiday fun.

For many people, reading is a holiday tradition . Some return to the same stories each December, while others search for something new. Whether you read with your kids, want a good mystery, or hope for a bit of romance, you’ll find something here.

We’ve gathered 15 classic Christmas books, organized by age and interest. Let’s help you find your next holiday favorite.

Best Contemporary Christmas Mystery Books

Some people like sugar cookies and hot cocoa during the holidays. Others prefer a twisty mystery with their twinkle lights. These Christmas-themed whodunits bring snow, secrets, and a little bit of holiday mischief. If you love stories with tension, clever plots, and festive settings, this section is for you.

1. Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie

A family reunion turns deadly on Christmas Eve, and only Poirot can solve the case. Set in a cold English mansion, this classic mystery includes a locked room, a shattered peace, and more than one person with something to hide. It’s one of the best Christmas mysteries for readers who enjoy clever puzzles and old-school detective work.

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2. Mystery in White by J. Jefferson Farjeon

A train gets stuck in a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. The passengers take shelter in a house that seems ready for guests, but no one’s home. As the storm rages, secrets come out, and the mystery deepens. First published in the 1930s, this forgotten gem is now a fan favorite for readers who like old-fashioned suspense with a festive chill.

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3. We Wish You a Murderous Christmas by Vicki Delany

In a town that lives for Christmas, the holiday cheer is interrupted by a murder at the local inn. The main character, Merry Wilkinson, owns a Christmas shop and can’t help but get involved in solving the crime. With small-town charm and cozy suspense, this mystery is perfect for readers who enjoy lighthearted whodunits with holiday spirit.

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Best Classic Christmas Books for Kids and Preschoolers

One of the most meaningful Christmas presents you can give a child is a story they’ll remember. With magical trains, silly reindeer, and snowmen that come to life, each book offers something special for young readers. They’re easy to read aloud, filled with joy, and perfect for quiet nights by the tree or fun holiday mornings.

5. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

A boy boards a mysterious train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he learns about belief, wonder, and the quiet magic of the season. With its dreamlike artwork and gentle message, this book is a favorite for families and a must-read during the holidays.

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6. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss

High above Whoville, the Grinch tries to steal Christmas until he learns it means more than gifts and food. This rhyming story about kindness, change, and community has been a holiday classic for generations. It’s fun to read aloud and easy for even the youngest listeners to enjoy.

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7. The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

A boy builds a snowman that comes to life in the night. Raymond Briggs uses beautiful illustrations to share the story, capturing the magic and quiet of winter. It’s perfect for preschoolers who enjoy visual stories and peaceful moments.

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8. Olive, the Other Reindeer by J Otto Seibold

When Olive the dog hears a Christmas song, she decides she’s supposed to be a reindeer and heads to the North Pole to help Santa. With playful humor and bold illustrations, this story adds a fun twist to holiday reading. Kids will laugh, and grownups will, too.

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Best Timeless Christmas Books for Teens and Young Adults

Holiday stories for teens often mix love, friendship, and significant life questions with snow-covered streets and quiet winter nights. These books offer more than holiday cheer; they explore connection, change, and what it means to care for others. Whether you’re a teen or just young at heart, these reads are worth returning to every December.

9. Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle

A snowstorm brings three separate love stories together in one small town on Christmas Eve. Each author tells a different tale, but the characters’ paths cross in fun and unexpected ways. It's a great pick for teens who enjoy stories about friendship, romance, and the little moments that make the holidays feel real.

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10. Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

In New York City during the holidays, two teens trade dares and secrets through a red notebook left in a bookstore. As they follow clues across the city, they slowly get to know each other without meeting in person. It’s a fun, thoughtful read about taking chances, being seen, and falling in love during the most festive time of year.

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11. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Three spirits visit Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve, each showing him a different part of his life. Through fear, memory, and hope, he begins to change. Though written long ago, this story still speaks to readers of all ages, especially teens, learning what it means to care deeply and act with kindness.

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Best Magical and Romantic Christmas Reads for Adults

These Christmas books for adults bring together hope, humor, second chances, and a little bit of magic. Whether you're looking for cozy romance or timeless fantasy, these stories offer a quiet escape and a reminder of what really matters during the holidays.

12. One Day in December by Josie Silver

Laurie spots a man through a fogged-up bus window and feels an instant connection, but fate has other plans. Over the next decade, their lives keep crossing, never quite in sync. This novel is for readers who believe love is worth waiting for and that the holidays can bring people back together in surprising ways.

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13. Skipping Christmas by John Grisham

Luther and Nora Krank decide to skip the holiday chaos and go on a cruise instead, but their plan doesn’t go as smoothly as expected. What follows is a funny, honest look at how much the season can mean, even when it’s hard. It's an excellent pick for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by the holidays but still wants to find the joy in them.

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14. The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan

When Carmen loses her job, she ends up working in a charming bookshop in Edinburgh owned by a grumpy older man. Between organizing the store, finding new friends, and reconnecting with her sister, she starts to rebuild her life. This story is about healing, love, and how the right place, filled with books and snow, can open your heart.

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15. The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann

On Christmas Eve, young Marie’s favorite toy, the Nutcracker, comes to life and leads her into a world of magic, battles, and wonder. The original story behind the famous ballet features dreamlike scenes and timeless beauty. Adults who grew up with the performance will love returning to where the story began.

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Conclusion: Make These Christmas Books Classics Part of Your Holiday Tradition

The holidays can be hectic, with lots to do and plenty of expectations. Still, they also give us a chance to pause and enjoy a good story. Whether you’re reading a bedtime favorite with your kids, getting lost in a holiday romance, or curling up with a cozy mystery, these books help us slow down and reconnect.

These 15 books have stood the test of time. They appeal to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Some will make you laugh, others might bring a tear, and many remind us of the true meaning of the season. And if you follow the theory about book gifting , the idea that a single book can create lasting memories, then sharing one of these stories may be the most meaningful gift you give this year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Books

1. What are the most popular Christmas books?

Some of the most popular Christmas books include A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, and The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore. These titles have become holiday staples for families and readers of all ages.

2. What is a good winter read?

Good winter reads often feature snowy settings, quiet reflection, or cozy themes. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey, and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis are popular choices. Many Christmas books also make great winter reads, especially if they focus on warmth, family, and hope.

3. What is the best Christmas story?

Many readers consider A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens the best Christmas story of all time. Its message of kindness, change, and community has remained powerful for over 180 years. It’s widely read, adapted into films and plays, and remains a favorite across generations.

4. Did We Miss Your Favorite Christmas Read?

Everyone has that one Christmas book they return to year after year, the one that feels like home. If you didn’t see yours on this list, that’s okay. There’s always room for more stories that bring warmth, laughter, or a little holiday magic.

Browse more of our classic Christmas picks at Lioness Books TX on Bookshop.org .

Whether you're shopping for yourself, your kids, or someone special, there’s a festive read waiting to become part of your tradition.

Let this be the season you find a new favorite or rediscover an old one.

Holiday Gift Guide

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:53:45 GMT

Holiday Gift Guide for Book Lovers in Austin, Texas

Find the perfect read for every book lover on your list with our curated Holiday Gift Guide! We have taken the time to highlight some show stopping presents to make your shopping a breeze. Shop small and support your local bookstore this holiday season by purchasing gifts through our Bookshop and Libro sites. View our entire selection of December book recommendations in physical and E-book format here and audiobooks here . From all of us at Lioness Books, thank you for supporting small businesses and Happy Holidays!

For the Romance Devotee

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny

Kiran Desai

When Sonia and Sunny first glimpse each other on an overnight train, they are immediately captivated yet also embarrassed by the fact that their grandparents had once tried to matchmake them, a clumsy meddling that served only to drive Sonia and Sunny apart.

Sonia, an aspiring novelist who recently completed her studies in the snowy mountains of Vermont, has returned to her family in India. She fears that she is haunted by a dark spell cast by an artist to whom she had once turned for intimacy and inspiration. Sunny, a struggling journalist resettled in New York City, is attempting to flee his imperious mother and the violence of his warring clan.

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny

Kiran Desai

Uncertain of their future, Sonia and Sunny embark on a search for happiness together as they confront the many alienations of our modern world.

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny is the sweeping tale of two young people navigating the many forces that shape their lives: country, class, race, history, and the complicated bonds that link one generation to the next. A love story, a family saga, and a rich novel of ideas, it is the most ambitious and accomplished work yet by one of our greatest novelists.

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The Autumn Leaf Bookshop

Kay Michaels

Raene Hart doesn't do fall.

Give her beaches, sun-soaked pages, and barefoot days under thunderstorm skies and she's golden. But when her beloved grandmother needs care, Raene trades her coastal condo and bestselling romance career for six weeks in Everly Hollow, a cozy town full of enchantment, magic and where not all beings are human.

Sylas Ashvale is everything she doesn't need right now. He's tall, too handsome for his own good, and the owner of The Autumn Leaf Bookshop.

The Autumn Leaf Bookshop

Kay Michaels

Raene Hart doesn't do fall.

Sylas Ashvale is everything she doesn't need right now. He's tall, too handsome for his own good, and the owner of The Autumn Leaf Bookshop.

The Autumn Leaf Bookshop

Kay Michaels

Raene Hart doesn't do fall.

Sylas Ashvale is everything she doesn't need right now. He's tall, too handsome for his own good, and the owner of The Autumn Leaf Bookshop.

He's the literal embodiment of fall with his cozy sweaters, fall magic, and cinnamon-scented charm. Oh, and did I mention he's Fae with a bonded miniature dragon?

Raene is a summer-loving author. Sylas is autumn incarnate.

But sometimes, the season you hate... becomes the one that changes everything. Will Raene survive pumpkin season without losing her mind or her heart?

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For the Contemporary Fiction Fan

The Correspondent

Virginia Evans

“Imagine, the letters one has sent out into the world, the letters received back in turn, are like the pieces of a magnificent puzzle. . . . Isn’t there something wonderful in that, to think that a story of one’s life is preserved in some way, that this very letter may one day mean something, even if it is a very small thing, to someone?”

Filled with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, The Correspondent is a gem of a novel about the power of finding solace in literature and connection with people we might never meet in person. It is about the hubris of youth and the wisdom of old age, and the mistakes and acts of kindness that occur during a lifetime.

The Correspondent

Virginia Evans

Sybil Van Antwerp has throughout her life used letters to make sense of the world and her place in it.

Most mornings, around half past ten, Sybil sits down to write letters-to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who will not allow her to audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to tell them what she thinks of their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often yet never sends the letter.

Sybil expects her world to go on as it always ha-a mother, grandmother, wife, divorcee, distinguished lawyer, she has lived a very full life. But when letters from someone in her past force her to examine one of the most painful periods of her life, she realizes that the letter she has been writing over the years needs to be read and that she cannot move forward until she finds it in her heart to offer forgiveness.

Sybil Van Antwerp’s life of letters might be “a very small thing,” but she also might be one of the most memorable characters you will ever read.

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Sybil Van Antwerp has throughout her life used letters to make sense of the world and her place in it.

Most mornings, around half past ten, Sybil sits down to write letters—to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who will not allow her to audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to tell them what she thinks of their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often yet never sends the letter.

Sybil expects her world to go on as it always has—a mother, grandmother, wife, divorcee, distinguished lawyer, she has lived a very full life. But when letters from someone in her past force her to examine one of the most painful periods of her life, she realizes that the letter she has been writing over the years needs to be read and that she cannot move forward until she finds it in her heart to offer forgiveness.

Sybil Van Antwerp’s life of letters might be “a very small thing,” but she also might be one of the most memorable characters you will ever read.

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We Do Not Part

Han Kang

One winter morning in Seoul, Kyungha receives an urgent message from her friend Inseon to visit her at the hospital. Inseon has injured herself in an accident, and she begs Kyungha to return to Jeju Island, where she lives, to save her beloved pet-a white bird called Ama. A snowstorm hits the island when Kyungha arrives. She must reach Inseon’s house at all costs, but the icy wind and squalls slow her down as night begins to fall. She wonders if she will arrive in time to save the animal-or even survive the terrible cold that envelops her with every step. Lost in a world of snow, she doesn’t yet suspect the vertiginous plunge into darkness that awaits her at her friend’s house.

We Do Not Part

Han Kang

One winter morning in Seoul, Kyungha receives an urgent message from her friend Inseon to visit her at the hospital. Inseon has injured herself in an accident, and she begs Kyungha to return to Jeju Island, where she lives, to save her beloved pet—a white bird called Ama. A snowstorm hits the island when Kyungha arrives. She must reach Inseon’s house at all costs, but the icy wind and squalls slow her down as night begins to fall. She wonders if she will arrive in time to save the animal—or even survive the terrible cold that envelops her with every step. Lost in a world of snow, she doesn’t yet suspect the vertiginous plunge into darkness that awaits her at her friend’s house.

We Do Not Part

Han Kang

One winter morning in Seoul, Kyungha receives an urgent message from her friend Inseon to visit her at the hospital. Inseon has injured herself in an accident, and she begs Kyungha to return to Jeju Island, where she lives, to save her beloved pet—a white bird called Ama. A snowstorm hits the island when Kyungha arrives. She must reach Inseon’s house at all costs, but the icy wind and squalls slow her down as night begins to fall. She wonders if she will arrive in time to save the animal—or even survive the terrible cold that envelops her with every step. Lost in a world of snow, she doesn’t yet suspect the vertiginous plunge into darkness that awaits her at her friend’s house.

Blurring the boundaries between dream and reality, We Do Not Part powerfully brings to light the lost voices of the past to save them from oblivion. Both a hymn to an enduring friendship and an argument for remembering, it is the story of profound love in the face of unspeakable pain-and a celebration of life, however fragile it might be.

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For the Memoir Obsessed

The Anthony Bourdain Reader

Anthony Bourdain

The definitive, career-spanning collection of writing from Anthony Bourdain, assembled for the first time in book form.

Anthony Bourdain represented many things to many people-and he had many sides. But no part of his identity was more important to him, and more long-lasting, than that of a writer. The Anthony Bourdain Reader is a collection of his best and most fascinating writing, and touches on his many pursuits and passions, from restaurant life to family life to the “low life,” from TV to travel through places like Vietnam, Buenos Aires, Paris, and Shanghai.

The Anthony Bourdain Reader

Anthony Bourdain

The definitive, career-spanning collection of writing from Anthony Bourdain, assembled for the first time in book form.

Anthony Bourdain represented many things to many people—and he had many sides. But no part of his identity was more important to him, and more long-lasting, than that of a writer. The Anthony Bourdain Reader is a collection of his best and most fascinating writing, and touches on his many pursuits and passions, from restaurant life to family life to the “low life,” from TV to travel through places like Vietnam, Buenos Aires, Paris, and Shanghai.

The Anthony Bourdain Reader is also a showcase for new and never-before-seen material, like diary entries from Bourdain’s first trip to France as a teenager and “It’s Cruel and Unforgiving Terrain,” a piece on the New York restaurant scene, as well as unpublished short fiction like “I Quit My Job Yesterday” and chapters from No New Messages, his unfinished novel. These newly discovered pieces all contribute to give the fullest picture of the man behind the books.

The Anthony Bourdain Reader is a testament to the enduring and singular voice Bourdain crafted, with eclectic and curated chapters that encapsulate the unique brilliance of his restless mind. Edited by Bourdain’s longtime agent and friend Kimberly Witherspoon and with a foreword by Patrick Radden Keefe, this is an essential reader for any Bourdain fan as well as a vivid and moving recollection of the life and legacy of one of our most distinctive writers.

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The Uncool

Cameron Crowe

Cameron Crowe was an unlikely rock and roll insider. Born in 1957 to parents who strictly banned the genre from their house, he dove headfirst into the world of music. By the time he graduated high school at fifteen, Crowe was contributing to Rolling Stone. His parents became believers, uneasily allowing him to interview and tour with legends like Led Zeppelin; Lynyrd Skynyrd; Bob Dylan; Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young; and Fleetwood Mac.

The Uncool offers a front-row ticket to the 1970s, a golden era for music and art when rock was young. There’s no such thing as a media junket-just the rare chance a young writer might be invited along for an adventure. Crowe spends his teens politely turning down the drugs and turning on his tape recorder.

The Uncool

Cameron Crowe

The Uncool offers a front-row ticket to the 1970s, a golden era for music and art when rock was young. There’s no such thing as a media junket—just the rare chance a young writer might be invited along for an adventure. Crowe spends his teens politely turning down the drugs and turning on his tape recorder.

The Uncool

Cameron Crowe

He talks his journalism teacher into giving him class credit for his road trip covering Led Zeppelin’s 1975 tour, which lands him-and the band-on the cover of Rolling Stone. He embeds with David Bowie as the sequestered genius transforms himself into a new persona: the Thin White Duke. Why did Bowie give Crowe such unprecedented access? “Because you’re young enough to be honest,” Bowie tells him.

Youth and humility are Crowe’s ticket into the Eagles’ dressing room in 1972, where Glenn Frey vows to keep the band together forever; to his first major interview with Kris Kristofferson; to earning the trust of icons like Gregg Allman and Joni Mitchell, who had sworn to never again speak to Rolling Stone. It’s a magical odyssey, the journey of a teenage writer waved through the door to find his fellow dreamers, music geeks, and lifelong community. It’s a path that leads him to writing and directing some of the most beloved films of the past forty years, from Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Say Anything... to Jerry Maguire and Almost Famous. His movies often resonate with the music of the artists he first met as a journalist, including Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the Who, and Pearl Jam.

The Uncool is also a surprisingly intimate family drama. If you’ve seen Almost Famous, you may think you know this story-but you don’t. For the first time, Crowe opens up about his formative years in Palm Springs and pays tribute to his father, a decorated Army officer who taught him the irreplaceable value of the human voice. Crowe also offers a full portrait of his mother, whose singular spirit helped shape him into an unconventional visionary.

With its vivid snapshots of a bygone era and a celebration of creativity and connection, this memoir is an essential read for music lovers or anyone chasing their wildest dreams. At the end of that roller-coaster journey, you might just find what you were looking for: your place in the world.

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For the Fantasy Fanatic

The Hymn to Dionysus

Natasha Pulley

A timely reimagining of the story of Dionysus-Greek god of ecstasy, revelry, and ruin-and a captivating queer love story for readers of The Song of Achilles and Elektra .

Raised in a Greek legion, Phaidros has been taught to follow his commander's orders at all costs. But when Phaidros rescues a baby from a fire at Thebes's palace, his commander's orders cease to make sense: Phaidros is forced to abandon the blue-eyed boy at a temple, and to keep the baby's existence a total secret.

Years later, struggling with panic attacks and flashbacks, Phaidros is enlisted by the Queen to find her son, Thebes' young crown prince, who has vanished to escape an arranged marriage.

The Hymn to Dionysus

Natasha Pulley

A timely reimagining of the story of Dionysus-Greek god of ecstasy, revelry, and ruin-and a captivating queer love story for readers of The Song of Achilles and Elektra .

Years later, struggling with panic attacks and flashbacks, Phaidros is enlisted by the Queen to find her son, Thebes' young crown prince, who has vanished to escape an arranged marriage.

The search leads him to a blue-eyed witch named Dionysus, whose guidance is as wise as the events that surround him are strange. In Dionysus's company, Phaidros witnesses sudden outbursts of riots and unrest, and everywhere Dionysus goes, rumors follow about a new god, one sired by Zeus but lost in a fire.

In The Hymn to Dionysus , bestselling author Natasha Pulley transports us to an ancient empire on the edge of ruin to tell an utterly captivating queer love story about a man needing a god to remind him how to be a human.

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Assassin’s Apprentice

Robin Hobb

Young Fitz is the bastard son of the noble Prince Chivalry, raised in the shadow of the royal court by his father’s gruff stableman. He is treated as an outcast by all the royalty except the devious King Shrewd, who has him secretly tutored in the arts of the assassin. For in Fitz’s blood runs the magic Skill-and the darker knowledge of a child raised with the stable hounds and rejected by his family.

As barbarous raiders ravage the coasts, Fitz is growing to manhood. Soon he will face his first dangerous, soul-shattering mission. And though some regard him as a threat to the throne, he may just be the key to the survival of the kingdom.

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Assassin’s Apprentice

Robin Hobb

Young Fitz is the bastard son of the noble Prince Chivalry, raised in the shadow of the royal court by his father’s gruff stableman. He is treated as an outcast by all the royalty except the devious King Shrewd, who has him secretly tutored in the arts of the assassin. For in Fitz’s blood runs the magic Skill—and the darker knowledge of a child raised with the stable hounds and rejected by his family.

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Assassin’s Apprentice

Robin Hobb

Young Fitz is the bastard son of the noble Prince Chivalry, raised in the shadow of the royal court by his father’s gruff stableman. He is treated as an outcast by all the royalty except the devious King Shrewd, who has him secretly tutored in the arts of the assassin. For in Fitz’s blood runs the magic Skill—and the darker knowledge of a child raised with the stable hounds and rejected by his family.

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For the History Buff

Black Moses

Caleb Gayle

The remarkable story of Edward McCabe, a Black man who tried to establish a Black state within the United States.

In this paradigm-shattering work of American history, Caleb Gayle recounts the extraordinary tale of Edward McCabe, a Black man who championed the audacious idea to create a state within the Union governed by and for Black people - and the racism, politics, and greed that thwarted him.

As the sweeping changes and brief glimpses of hope brought by the Civil War and Reconstruction began to wither, anger at the opportunities available to newly freed Black people were on the rise. As a result, both Blacks and whites searched for new places to settle.

Black Moses

Caleb Gayle

The remarkable story of Edward McCabe, a Black man who tried to establish a Black state within the United States.

In this paradigm-shattering work of American history, Caleb Gayle recounts the extraordinary tale of Edward McCabe, a Black man who championed the audacious idea to create a state within the Union governed by and for Black people — and the racism, politics, and greed that thwarted him.

That was when Edward McCabe, a Black businessman and a rising political star in the American West, set in motion his plans to found a state within the Union for Black people to live in and govern. His chosen site: Oklahoma, a place that the U.S. government had deeded to Indigenous people in the 1830s when it forced thousands of them to leave their homes under Indian Removal, which became known as the Trail of Tears.

McCabe lobbied politicians in Washington, D.C., Kansas, and elsewhere as he exhorted Black people to move to Oklahoma to achieve their dreams of self-determination and land ownership. His rising profile as a leader and spokesman for Black people as well as his willingness to confront white politicians led him to become known as Black Moses. And like his biblical counterpart, McCabe nearly made it to the promised land but was ultimately foiled by politics, business interests, and the growing ambitions of white settlers who also wanted the land.

In Black Moses , Gayle brings to vivid life the world of Edward McCabe: the Black people who believed in his dream of a Black state, the white politicians who didn't, and the larger challenges of confronting the racism and exclusion that bedeviled Black people's attempts to carve a place in America for themselves. Gayle draws from extraordinary research and reporting to reveal an America that almost was.

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We The People: A History of the U.S. Constitution

Jill Lepore

The U.S. Constitution is among the oldest constitutions in the world but also one of the most difficult to amend. Jill Lepore, Harvard professor of history and law, explains why in We the People , the most original history of the Constitution in decades--and an essential companion to her landmark history of the United States, These Truths .

Published on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding--the anniversary, too, of the first state constitutions-- We the People offers a wholly new history of the Constitution. "One of the Constitution's founding purposes was to prevent change," Lepore writes. "Another was to allow for change without violence."

We The People: A History of the U.S. Constitution

Jill Lepore

We The People: A History of the U.S. Constitution

Jill Lepore

Finding the Perfect Book for Every Reader

Relying on the extraordinary database she has assembled at the Amendments Project, Lepore recounts centuries of attempts, mostly by ordinary Americans, to realize the promise of the Constitution. Yet nearly all those efforts have failed. Although nearly twelve thousand amendments have been introduced in Congress since 1789, and thousands more have been proposed outside its doors, only twenty-seven have ever been ratified.

More troubling, the Constitution has not been meaningfully amended since 1971. Without recourse to amendment, she argues, the risk of political violence rises. So does the risk of constitutional change by presidential or judicial fiat.

Challenging both the Supreme Court's monopoly on constitutional interpretation and the flawed theory of "originalism," Lepore contends in this "gripping and unfamiliar story of our own past" that the philosophy of amendment is foundational to American constitutionalism. The framers never intended for the Constitution to be preserved, like a butterfly, under glass, Lepore argues, but expected that future generations would be forever tinkering with it, hoping to mend America by amending its Constitution through an orderly deliberative and democratic process.

Lepore's remarkable history seeks, too, to rekindle a sense of constitutional possibility. Congressman Jamie Raskin writes that Lepore "has thrown us a lifeline, a way of seeing the Constitution neither as an authoritarian straitjacket nor a foolproof magic amulet but as the arena of fierce, logical, passionate, and often deadly struggle for a more perfect union." At a time when the Constitution's vulnerability is all too evident, and the risk of political violence all too real, We the People , with its shimmering prose and pioneering research, hints at the prospects for a better constitutional future, an amended America.

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Don’t see what you’re looking for? View our entire Holiday Gift Guide on our Bookshop and Libro sites. Happy Holidays!

12 Bedtime Audiobooks That Will Surely Help You Sleep

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:58:31 GMT

12 Bedtime Audiobooks to Help You Sleep Better

After a long day, when your mind is still racing, and your body isn’t ready to rest, listening to an audiobook can gently ease you into sleep. A soft voice, a steady pace, and a simple story can help create the calm you need, whether you’re an adult unwinding from stress or a parent helping your child settle down.

In this guide, we’ve handpicked soothing bedtime audiobooks that can truly help you sleep. Some are quiet stories for grown-ups, others are thoughtful meditations, and many are favorites for kids and toddlers. Each one offers something peaceful. Keep reading to find the right one for you or your family tonight.

Benefits of Audiobooks

Audiobooks can be a powerful part of a healthy nighttime routine. They offer a calm, screen-free way to slow down both the body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep. When you listen to someone read in a soft, steady voice, your brain gets the signal that it’s time to rest. The pace of the story, the narrator's tone, and the gentle background silence all help reduce stress and quiet racing thoughts, which are just a few of the many benefits of audiobooks .

For adults , bedtime audiobooks can be a helpful distraction from worries, work, or mental overload. Many people find that listening to fiction or guided meditation gives their mind something simple to focus on, just enough to prevent overthinking, but not so engaging that it keeps them awake.

For kids , audiobooks create a predictable bedtime pattern. Hearing the same voice or favorite story each night helps them feel safe, settled, and ready for sleep. It can also support language development, imagination, and listening skills, all while giving caregivers a break from reading aloud every night.

For toddlers , soothing bedtime audiobooks with gentle repetition and familiar characters can feel like a lullaby. Stories like Goodnight Moon or Brown Bear, Brown Bear are especially helpful because they use soft language, clear rhythm, and a sense of routine that toddlers love.

12 Best Bedtime Audiobooks

We’ve chosen 12 soothing audiobooks that speak to different needs and age groups, starting with fiction and narratives that bring peace to adults at the end of a long day.

Fiction and Gentle Narratives for Adults

Bedtime Stories for Stressed-Out Adults by Lucy Mangan

A collection of calm, thoughtful short stories made to help adults let go of daily stress. The tone is quiet and reflective, designed to ease your mind and guide you into rest. These gentle stories remind us that needing help to slow down is okay, breaking the idea that we always need to push through or stay productive.

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The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame

Follow the peaceful lives of Mole, Rat, Badger, and Toad as they explore friendship, change, and the quiet joy of nature. The calm setting and steady pace offer a comforting way to end your day. This classic reminds listeners that rest, connection, and simple pleasures matter, an important message for those feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

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The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

A tender story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, learning about love, loneliness, and the human heart. Its slow rhythm and soft language make it ideal for bedtime. With its quiet wisdom, it helps normalize deep emotions and gently challenges the idea that we have to hide what we feel.

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Sleep Stories and Guided Relaxation for All Ages

Nothing Much Happens by Kathryn Nicolai

Kathryn Nicolai tells slow, peaceful stories about everyday life: making tea, walking through quiet towns, watching nature change with the seasons. Her steady voice helps you relax, while the gentle details keep your thoughts from racing. These stories give your mind something safe and quiet to hold onto, showing that rest matters and that you don’t need to do more to deserve it.

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Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics by Dan Harris

Dan Harris guides you through short, honest meditations that help calm your body and focus your thoughts, even if you don’t think of yourself as “calm.” He talks openly about his own experience with anxiety and shows how small habits can make a big difference. By normalizing mental health struggles, he breaks down shame and encourages listeners to try rest without guilt.

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The Little Book of Mindfulness by Dr Patrizia Collard

Dr. Patrizia Collard leads you through simple breathing exercises and quiet reflections that help you stay present and relaxed. Each practice takes only a few minutes but offers space to reset and breathe. This audiobook supports both adults and kids in learning how to care for their minds, and it shows that mindfulness doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be practiced.

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Bedtime Audiobooks for Kids (Ages 4–12)

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

A quiet poem about saying goodnight to everything in the room, this classic bedtime story creates a calm rhythm that many children find comforting. The soft repetition and gentle tone help slow racing thoughts and prepare the body for sleep. For kids who feel anxious at night, this story offers structure and warmth, showing them that it’s okay to let the day go.

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The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams

A gentle story about love, loss, and what it means to become “real,” this tale follows a toy rabbit who longs to be truly loved. Children connect with its honest emotions and quiet beauty. It encourages them to be kind, feel deeply, and accept change, all while helping them wind down with care and safety at the end of the day.

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A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond

Paddington’s kind heart and simple mistakes bring laughter and comfort without overstimulation. The stories move at an easy pace, with soft humor and gentle lessons about curiosity, manners, and family. Listening to Paddington’s calm adventures can help children relax and remind them that it’s okay to make mistakes as they grow.

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Bedtime Audiobooks for Toddlers (Ages 1–4)

Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama waits for Mama after bedtime and feels big emotions in a small moment. The story names feelings like worry and fear in ways toddlers can understand. With its rhyming lines and soft narration, it helps children feel seen and reminds them that it’s okay to ask for comfort. This story supports emotional growth while helping little ones settle down.

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Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker

Each truck on the construction site finishes its work and gets ready to sleep. The slow rhythm and gentle voice help toddlers wind down as the machines go quiet one by one. It teaches that everything, even busy trucks, needs rest. This story offers a steady, calming structure that toddlers can return to night after night.

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Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Simple questions and repeated answers guide toddlers through colors, animals, and sounds in a peaceful rhythm. The predictability of the story helps young listeners feel safe and focused. This audiobook supports early learning while also calming the body and mind for sleep. It’s short, familiar, and easy to love at any age.

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Why Do Bedtime Audiobooks Work for All Ages?

The right audiobook can do more than help you fall asleep; it can create a moment of calm, connection, and care. Whether you’re an adult trying to quiet your thoughts, a parent easing your child into rest, or a caregiver comforting a toddler, these stories offer more than just words. They bring peace, structure, and emotional support when it’s most needed.

We chose each audiobook in this list for its gentle tone, thoughtful message, and ability to make bedtime feel safe and soothing. From soft fiction to guided mindfulness, these titles help build healthy nighttime habits and remind us that slowing down is something we all deserve. Sleep is not a reward; it’s part of healing, and audiobooks can help make it easier for people of all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bedtime Audiobooks

1. What are the best audiobooks for sleep?

The best audiobooks for sleep use slow pacing, gentle language, and calming narration. Titles like Nothing Much Happens by Kathryn Nicolai and Bedtime Stories for Stressed-Out Adults by Lucy Mangan help you relax. For kids, books like Goodnight Moon and Llama Llama Red Pajama are soothing and easy to follow. Look for stories without fast action or loud sound effects.

2. Is listening to audiobooks before bed good?

Yes, audiobooks can be a healthy part of a bedtime routine. They help your mind shift away from stress, reduce screen time, and create a calming habit. Many people find it easier to fall asleep with a soft voice in the background. Just make sure to choose slow, gentle stories and use a sleep timer if needed.

3. What is best to listen to before bedtime?

Soft fiction, guided meditations, and sleep stories work best before bed. These types of audiobooks use simple language and calm narration to help you wind down. Avoid anything with fast dialogue, suspense, or loud music. Choose a story that feels comforting and familiar.

4. What is the healthiest sound to sleep to?

The healthiest sounds for sleep are slow, steady, and quiet. For example, soft storytelling, gentle white noise, or nature sounds like rain or wind. A calming audiobook with a peaceful voice can help your brain and body relax more naturally than silence or screen noise.

5. What are the downsides of audiobooks?

Audiobooks can sometimes make it harder to sleep if the story is too engaging or if you forget to use a sleep timer. For some people, voices or sound effects may keep their minds active. Also, using headphones in bed may be uncomfortable or disrupt sleep if not positioned well. Choosing the right content and setting limits can help avoid these issues.

Explore Soothing Audiobooks for a Peaceful Night’s Sleep

If you're ready to make your nights calmer and more restful, start by exploring bedtime audiobooks on Libro.fm through Lioness Books . Whether you're looking for quiet stories to ease adult stress, peaceful tales for children, or soothing sounds to help toddlers wind down, there's something for every listener.

Audiobooks offer a gentle way to end the day: without screens, pressure, or noise. With options for all ages and moods, you can turn bedtime into a moment of care and calm. Try one tonight and let a kind voice guide you, and those you love, into a better night’s sleep.

Browse and shop our full collection!

Local Author Spotlight: Kevin Ashton

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:59:12 GMT

Local Author Spotlight: Kevin Ashton in Austin, Texas

Local author Kevin Ashton talks with us about his upcoming book The Story of Stories , in which he outlines the history and development of human storytelling from night fires to the contemporary digital age. Look out for the release of Ashton’s book on March 3, 2026. Visit our Bookshop or Libro sites to pre-order The Story of Stories.

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

KA: “I’m from London. I moved to the US in 1999 to start a research lab at MIT to develop what I called the Internet of Things, an internet-connected sensor network to span the world. The research was a success and the Internet of Things is everywhere now. I moved to Austin in 2013 and my first book, How to Fly a Horse , about innovation, creation, and discovery, was published in 2015. My second book, The Story of Stories , will be published in 2026. I did some solo kid-raising in between.”

AS: Tell us about your upcoming book, The Story of Stories. What was the initial inspiration for it?

KA: “Around 2018 it became clear to me that almost everyone in the world was going to have their own smartphone around 2026. Almost no one had a phone of any kind in 2000—phones were for the few people in advanced economies only. The same was true of computers and television sets. I wanted to write a book about what it would mean when suddenly, because everyone had a smartphone, everyone could tell stories to everyone, and realized the only way to explain that properly would be to start at the beginning, when there were no stories. That’s why The Story of Stories starts in a time before stories, before the evolution of our storytelling instinct around our first nightfires and ends in the present day.”

AS: How can readers help local authors like you?

KA: “A reader is the most powerful person in publishing. Not en masse, but individually. In most other industries, a customer is one among millions. But that’s not true for books. If one reader pre-orders a book, whether from a bookseller or a library, it makes a big difference to how booksellers and libraries stock that title, which makes a big difference to how the publisher prints and promotes it, which makes a big difference to how many people hear about it in the crucial first few weeks when it is published. Even more important, if you read a book and like it, and actively recommend it to people, you start a chain reaction. If four people buy a book because you recommended it, and then they recommend it, and so on, that means a thousand people read the book who wouldn’t have read it otherwise. A single reader is a mighty force.”

Lioness Books supports local authors. Uplifting local authors is crucial to not only the growth and strength of the greater literary community, but free expression and democracy. Ordering from independent booksellers helps us move away from monopolies like Amazon and keeps our economy local. Pre-order The Story of Stories on our Bookshop and Libro sites.

The Gulag Archipelago: A Voice of Necessity

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 16:52:15 GMT

Book Review by Biff Rushton

Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s The Gulag Archipelago isn’t a book of leisure. It isn’t the warm and inviting volume you cradle for an idle hour with a coffee, in your favorite reading nook. It isn’t for the feeble-minded or weak of heart, and it doesn’t soothe. It doesn’t offer escape. What it does is awaken. It demands, testifies, and it remembers. Less a book than an act of moral excavation, it burrows into the bloody dirt of the twentieth century and unearths a bone orchard of voices, millions silenced by fear and lost in the icy-steel labyrinth of the Soviet penal system. To open its pages is to confront the fragile line between brutality and resilience, and to be reminded that the space between the two is delicate and razor thin.

Solzhenitsyn himself lived in that space. An officer in the Red Army during World War II, he was arrested in 1945 for the crime of criticizing the military capabilities of Stalin in private correspondence with a friend. He was arrested, convicted of anti-Soviet propaganda , and sentenced to eight years in the gulag system. What he endured and witnessed, along with the testimonies he collected from countless other prisoners, would later become “The Gulag Archipelago,” a staggering, three volume work that had to be smuggled from Russia on microfilm by a network of loyal friends, underground typists, and sympathizers who risked all to preserve its truth.

Pages were hidden in attics, stashed in drawers, and memorized word by word by confidants who slipped it piece by piece and page by page out of Soviet Russia and eventually into the West, where it was published in 1973. The manuscript’s survival was a triumph of courage and cunning, and its publication detonated like a hydrogen bomb. For the first time, the West saw with uncensored clarity the scale of Bolshevik brutality and oppression.

The title itself is a revelation. Solzhenitsyn writes of the Soviet labor camps as a hidden archipelago , a chain of prison islands stretching across the vast expanse of Russia. Together they formed a nation within a nation, a parallel land of the vanished that thrived on silence. Solzhenitsyn states, “It was as though our land was dotted with invisible volcanoes, each quiet for a time, until another eruption began.”

The details are shattering. He describes men dragged from their beds in the dead of night, seized at their workplaces, even pulled mid-surgery, half-anesthetized from operating tables. He writes of endless interrogations designed not to discover truth but to break the human spirit, and of cattle cars swollen with families who were ferried into the Russian hinterlands to never be seen again.

Image Credit: The Nation

He recounts how they spared no one regardless of age or sex, and how the secret police would compete with one another to see who could invent the most grotesque and perverse punishments; among the most disturbing being the so-called bedbug-infested box - wooden crates filled with swarms of bedbugs, in which prisoners might be locked for days. Solzhenitsyn writes, “At first he waged war with them strenuously, crushing them on his body and on the walls, suffocated by their stink. But after several hours he weakened and let them drink his blood without a murmur.” As readers, Solzhenitsyn spares us nothing, not allowing escape from any detail, no matter how sadistic or cruel.

And yet his prose, while unflinching, is not hysterical. It is calm, precise, and often infused with bitter irony. He knew that truth needed no exaggeration. He knew that the greatest horror was not cruelty but complicity. “Universal innocence also gave rise to the universal failure to act.” he observes. Family turned on family. Neighbor denounced neighbor. Co-workers saved themselves and signed their names to false accusations. Clerks stamped papers, priests gave blessings, and all the while millions vanished inside the mechanism of Soviet paranoia and oppression.

The book is monumental not only for its testimony but for its effect. It shattered the illusions of many in the West who still clung to romantic visions of the Soviet experiment. After its publication, it became impossible to deny the brutality of Bolshevik rule. In 1970, before the book was even published abroad, Solzhenitsyn was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, an honor recognizing the power of his moral witness. By the time the Archipelago reached the world in full, it had already cemented his place as one of the great prophetic voices of the twentieth century.

So why return to this book in Texas in 2025? Why place such a heavy read on a bookstore shelf now?

Because we too, live in a time when words like freedom and tyranny are thrown around with abandon. Neighbors spy on neighbors, legislatures clash over classrooms, curriculums, and bookshelves, and protests ignite passions and discord. I hear people say, “We’ve lost our liberty,” or, “This is oppression.” And yet when laid beside Solzhenitsyn’s world - the midnight knock on the door, the cattle car, the bedbug box - our troubles, grave as they may feel, are not yet the same. We still live in a land where this book can be read in broad daylight, bought in stores, and debated openly and loudly. That is no small thing.

Yet we should not be complacent. Solzhenitsyn warns that tyranny rarely arrives with a lightning strike. It seeps in, slowly, one compromise at a time. It emerges step by step, through concessions and disregard and self-interest. Evil advances not with horns but with polite justifications, with the rhetoric of protection, with the ever-convenient decision to keep out of trouble . That is why his words speak to us even now. They are not only a record of what once was, but a warning of what could be again.

The “Gulag Archipelago” isn’t simply a book, but a monument masoned from words. It stands as testament to both resilience and truth, demanding us to remember, not only for the victims of the past, but for the sake of those of the future. It is a warning. Born from nightmare and hewn from Solzhenitsyn’s courage, we are left with a prophetic caution on the fragility of freedom. We are reminded that liberty is never dealt a single death-blow, but instead is erased in slow, painful increments - by fear, by silence, by appeasement, by those who look away, and by others who would rather be complicit than risk defiance.

We all face choices in life that hold consequences reaching far beyond ourselves, moral decisions whose ramifications will be felt for generations after. What will we choose? What will you choose? Will the choice be what your conscience dictates, or what the crowd and your own fears decide? Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn‘s choice was to wield his pen against the brutal tyranny of Soviet Russia, bargaining the life and livelihood of not only himself, but his family and friends as well. Here at Lioness Books, our choice is to honor his courage and the courage of all those who stand firm and flatfooted in truth, by offering “The Gulag Archipelago” to our customers, inviting them to confront its unflinching realities, to let its revelations stir their own moral resolve, and to carry its call to action into the choices that will shape our future. Over fifty years have passed since it was first read in the West, yet, “The Gulag Archipelago” remains as words of vigilance, reminding us that freedom is a fragile vessel, and we must choose it boldly, for the human good of today and generations to come.

To read this extraordinary book, order from our online store today or explore the audiobook version.

So why return to this book in Texas in 2025? Why place such a heavy read on a bookstore shelf now?

To read this extraordinary book, order from our online store today or explore the audiobook version.

Local Author Cassidie Salley’s Book Launch: Vanish in the Ambre

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:56:38 GMT

Local author Cassidie Salley talks with us about her new gothic fantasy novel, Vanish in the Ambre . We spoke with Salley previously back in April about her book After the Light Died , and are now hosting her Book Launch Party at Wildfire Park in Leander on October 24th from 5pm to 9pm! There will be trick or treating, live music, and a food truck. Come in costume to receive a free Lioness Books tote bag!

AS: Tell us about your new gothic fantasy book “Vanish in the Ambre”!

CS: “It’s set in modern-day Texas, in a town called Trickem (based on the real-life town of Trickham!). All sorts of witches and fantastical creatures live there, but the town’s largest population is their infestation of ghosts. Our main character, Becca Newman, is a necromancer, specializing in reviving people’s pets and familiars. She’s on the job one day reviving a familiar when she stumbles upon a secret she wasn’t supposed to find.”

AS: Do you have any favorite moments from the book—or writing it—that you can share with us?

CS: “At the very beginning of the book is a chapter where Becca goes to the movies and a ghost interrupts her watching. That was the first time this story really clicked for me, trying to merge the modern-day teenager just trying to hang out with a deep and dark haunting. I spent the rest of the book trying to chase that energy I found in that one chapter.”

AS: What messages or sentiments do you hope readers will take away from your book?

CS: “While this is a very silly and (hopefully) funny book, a lot of its deeper themes are about grief and loneliness. Losing yourself after a traumatic event, losing friends and wondering what happened, trying to find yourself but still being labeled an outsider…all of this stuff is hard, and unfortunately a lot of young people can relate to it. While Becca is certainly not perfect, she is unapologetically herself. She’s alone because of it sometimes. Then one day, people who appreciate that about her start gravitating towards her. If there’s one thing I want people to take away from this book, it’s to not be afraid to be yourself even in the midst of grief and loneliness, because the right people will find you. If there’s another thing I want them to take away, it’s to not be afraid of being vulnerable in that grief, because sometimes that’s the only way to heal.”

10 Must-Read Books That Break the Stigma Around Mental Health

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 20:21:59 GMT

10 Books That Help Break the Stigma Around Mental Health

Talking about mental health can still feel hard. That’s because stigma, the judgment or shame people feel or face for having mental health struggles, is still very real. According to recent mental health stigma statistics from NAMI, more than half of U.S. adults with a mental illness don’t receive treatment. One reason? Fear of being judged.

Books can help change that. They open doors to understanding. They help us see each other more clearly. They remind us we’re not alone.

At Lioness Books , we believe in the power of stories. We support diverse voices and care deeply about community wellness. This list is for anyone ready to learn, reflect, and join the movement to break the silence around mental health, because together, we can make a difference.

Why Is Mental Health Still Stigmatized?

Even though we talk about mental health more today than ever before, stigma still lingers. But why?

Much of the stigma stems from fear and a lack of understanding. For years, mental illness was hidden or treated as shameful. In movies and news, people with mental health issues are often depicted as violent, weak, or unstable. These portrayals still shape public perception.

Cultural beliefs matter too. In some families or communities, emotional struggles are seen as personal failures or problems to “get over.” This fosters silence and shame.

The truth is, mental health is just as real and important as physical health. Stigma only adds to the pain people are already carrying. That’s why breaking it matters.

Examples of Mental Health Stigma

Mental health stigma can show up in small, everyday moments. Sometimes, it sounds like:

“Just tough it out.”
“You don’t look depressed.”
“People with anxiety are just overreacting.”

Stigma can also arise at work, where someone may avoid helping out of fear they’ll seem unreliable. In schools, students struggling with focus or emotional issues are often labeled as lazy instead of being supported.

Even within families, someone may stay quiet about how they feel because they worry they’ll be judged or not believed. This kind of silence can make people feel even more alone.

10 Must-Read Books by Local Authors That Destigmatize Mental Health

Stories deepen our understanding of others’ feelings. They remind us we aren’t alone. Each book offers a distinct voice and experience, but all aim to create space for healing through honesty, empathy, and connection.

Here are 10 powerful books that help break the stigma and invite us to listen, reflect, and heal.

1. "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" by Lori Gottlieb

Through stories of her therapy clients and her own experience, Lori Gottlieb shows that even therapists need help sometimes. It’s an honest, often funny, and deeply human look at how people grow through pain, loss, and change.

Purchase Here

2. "The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression" by Andrew Solomon

Andrew Solomon blends personal experience with research and interviews to explore the many sides of depression: medical, social, and cultural. He travels across countries, meets with scientists and survivors, and reflects on his own journey with mental illness.

Purchase Here

3. "It’s OK That You’re Not OK" by Megan Devine

Megan Devine writes from her own loss to explain why grief isn’t something to “fix.” She speaks to those living with loss and those who want to help, without offering quick solutions or false hope.

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4. "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses decades of research to explain how trauma lives in the body and mind. He shares stories from survivors and offers science-backed ways to support healing. It helps readers understand why recovery looks different for everyone, and why we must treat trauma with care.

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5. "Reasons to Stay Alive" by Matt Haig

Matt Haig shares what it felt like to live through a deep depression and anxiety, and what helped him keep going. By putting real words to an often hidden experience, this book helps reduce the shame that can surround mental illness and reminds readers that they are not the only ones feeling this way.

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6. "An Unquiet Mind" by Kay Redfield Jamison

As a clinical psychologist living with bipolar disorder, Kay Redfield Jamison writes with rare insight. Her memoir explores the highs and lows of the illness, as well as the challenges of treating others while struggling herself.

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7. "I’m Telling the Truth, but I’m Lying" by Bassey Ikpi

Bassey Ikpi shares intimate essays about life with bipolar II and anxiety, moving between her Nigerian roots and American experience. By naming what’s often left unspoken, especially in communities of color, this book disrupts silence and isolation around mental health.

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8. "Burnout" by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski

Emily and Amelia Nagoski explain why so many women feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck, and what can be done about it. They break down the stress cycle and offer practical ways to move through it.

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9. "Heavy" by Kiese Laymon

Kiese Laymon reflects on growing up Black in the South, navigating trauma, weight, shame, and silence. This memoir opens up space for complex conversations around race, masculinity, and mental health, especially in places where those stories are often left out.

Purchase Here

10. "Unmasking Autism" by Devon Price

Devon Price explores how many autistic people hide their true selves to adapt to a world that misunderstands them. Drawing on personal experience and research, the book shows what unmasking truly means.

Purchase Here

How Books Help Reduce Mental Health Stigma

Books can be lifelines. They reveal that mental health struggles are far more common than we think, and that healing is possible. When authors share their stories, they create space for others to feel seen and understood.

Reading about someone else’s journey can help us better understand our own or support someone we love. Books also help challenge myths by showing the full, human experience behind the label.

Whether it’s a memoir, a novel, or a guide, a good book can be the starting point of a deeper conversation and a powerful step toward empathy and change.

Find Your Voice in Someone Else’s Story

Stigma fades when we choose to listen, learn, and speak up. These books are invitations to see mental health through a more human lens. Whether you’re looking for hope, understanding, or a place to begin, there’s something in these pages for you.

At Lioness Books, we believe stories can build stronger, more caring communities. That’s why we uplift diverse voices and make space for conversations that matter. You can support this mission and your own journey by picking up one of these titles today.

Browse and shop our full collection at Lioness Books.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health

1. What Does Mental Health Stigma Mean?

Mental health stigma is the negative belief or judgment people have about mental illness. It shows up when someone is labeled as “weak,” “crazy,” or “broken” for struggling with their mental health. Stigma can lead to silence, shame, and discrimination. It also prevents people from asking for help or discussing what they’re going through.

2. How Can We Help Break the Stigma Around Mental Health?

We can help break the stigma by changing how we talk, think, and act around mental health. Here are a few ways to start:

Talk openly about mental health.
Listen without judgment.
Learn from people with lived experience..
Challenge stereotypes and correct false ideas when you hear them.
Support access to care by advocating for better mental health resources.
Treat mental health like physical health.

Even small actions can make a big difference.

3. Which Books Are Good for Understanding Mental Health?

Books that share personal stories or offer clear insight into mental health challenges are helpful. Some good options include " Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" by Lori Gottlieb, " The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, and " Heavy" by Kiese Laymon. These titles offer different points of view and help readers better understand what it’s like to live with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions.

Why Is There Still So Much Stigma Around Mental Illness?

Mental illness has often been misunderstood and misrepresented in the media, schools, and even families. Many people still believe it’s a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of. Some cultures also avoid talking about emotional struggles altogether. All of this creates fear, silence, and misinformation, which is why education and honest conversations are so important.

Local Author Spotlight: Janice Airhart

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:20:17 GMT

Local author Janice Airhart talks with us about her two memoirs, Mother of My Invention: A Motherless Daughter Memoir and (newly-released) Subject to Change: Teaching and Learning from Teen Moms . Airhart also shares her favorite moments from her writing process and a message she hopes readers take away from her work. Check out her website here .

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

JA: “I’m Janice Airhart, a woman with a curious mind who loves science, writing, volunteering, teaching, and learning. My love of science led me to a 25-year career in medical technology and research. My desire to write led me to a graduate program in journalism and a gig as a newsletter editor for a local university’s school of science and engineering. My desire to make a difference in the world has led to a wide variety of volunteer activities. My love of learning led me to the classroom in 2007, at the age of 55, when I became alternatively certified to teach high school science to pregnant and parenting teen girls. I think I learned more in those years than in any others. I also enjoyed a 13-year stint as an adjunct professor of Freshman Composition. Since leaving the classroom, I’ve written two memoirs and a couple of educational books about teaching teen moms and about families dealing with mental illness in a loved one. I still exercise my teaching muscle by reading with struggling readers at a Round Rock elementary school, and I write weekly for my Substack, which is aptly named “Subject to Change.” I hope to never stop learning and growing.”

AS: Do you have any favorite moments from your memoir Mother of My Invention: A Motherless Daughter Memoir—or writing it—that you can share with us?

JA: “My mother was diagnosed with schizophrenia shortly after my birth and was committed to a psychiatric institution in 1953 when I was 10 months old. She died in an institution 13 years later. I never knew her, a fact that haunted me for decades. By the time I began to write my story, the only person alive who had known my mother before she became ill was her younger sister, Connie. I hadn’t seen Aunt Connie or any of my New Jersey cousins since 1965, a year before my mother’s death. My husband and I flew to New Jersey in 2005. Unfortunately, there was little my aunt could add to what I already knew, because my mother left home while Aunt Connie was young. However, after a long weekend reconnecting with cousins and meeting their families, sharing a boiled crab feast on folding tables in the backyard, and laughing over oft-repeated stories, I felt somehow I’d gained a family. At the end of our visit, Aunt Connie embraced me and said, with tears in her eyes, “You’ve given me back my sister!” To which I responded, “You’ve given me back my mother!”

AS: How would you describe your writing style and central themes of your work?

JA: “A principle of memoir writing I take seriously is the value of honesty. It can be hard to relive unpleasant experiences, but I think being honest with readers about events and their impact on me is essential in memoir. A former editor used to advise me to “lean in” to difficult scenes. I followed her wise advice, and I found it was the best way to render the truth and lessen the sting the incident caused. I hope readers would describe my writing style as honest and relatable.

Growing up without a mother because she was mentally ill and absent shaped my life in both obvious and subtle ways. I’ve always had a soft spot for young people who need caring and supportive adults in their lives—I was fortunate to have had many such people in my childhood. Themes I like to explore in my writing are related to my gratitude for those people who showed up for me.

Whether it’s teaching teen moms or reading with elementary students, I feel it’s vitally important that young people know they are loved. I am also interested in how families cope with having a loved one with a serious mental illness. I’ve lived that experience, and I feel honored that others experiencing that trauma have shared their stories with me.”

AS: Tell us more about your upcoming memoir Subject to Change: Teaching and Learning from Teen Moms. If you could choose one message or sentiment for readers to take away, what would it be?

JA: “ Subject to Change: Teaching and Learning from Teen Moms describes my later-life third career, teaching science to pregnant and parenting teen girls. I thought I had wisdom and knowledge to share with my students, but my students taught me as much about life as I taught them about science. I’m incredibly grateful for those lessons. One message I’d like readers to take away from this book, whether they’re 16 and just discovered they’re pregnant, or 55 and looking for a new way to use their skills to make a difference in the world, is to be open to change. This is the only way to continue learning and growing in life. I guarantee your life will be all the richer as a result.”

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

JA:

Show up at book events and ask the author about what led them to write the book. Ask questions and engage the author in conversation.
Send an email to the author, letting them know you enjoyed their work.
Follow the author on social media. Respond with comments or likes.
When you’ve enjoyed a local author’s book, recommend it to friends.
Host a book club, centered on a local author’s book. Invite the author to join the group for a discussion about it.
After reading a book by a local author, leave a review (hopefully positive) on Facebook or Goodreads.

15 Incredible Books For Your Next Great Read On "National Read A Book Day"

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:02:03 GMT

National Read a Book Day is a time to pause and reconnect with the joy of reading. It reminds us that books aren't just stories; they're tools for learning, understanding others, and seeing the world in new ways. The purpose of this day is to encourage people of all ages to pick up a book and make reading a part of their lives.

Reading helps us grow, whether we do it to relax, learn something new, or escape into a different world. That's why this day matters. To celebrate, all you need to do is find a book that interests you, set aside some time, and start reading. In this blog, we'll help you choose one that's truly worth buying.

Choosing the Right Book: 5-Finger Rule Explained.

Choosing the right book can make reading more enjoyable. The five-finger rule is a straightforward way to check if a book fits your reading level.

Here's how it works:

Pick a book and start reading. Each time you find a word you don't understand or can't read, hold up one finger.

0–1 fingers: The book may be too easy.
2–3 fingers: This book is just right.
4–5 fingers: The book might be too hard for now.

This rule helps you find books that challenge you without causing frustration. It's a good way to ensure the books you choose are not only interesting but also worth buying and finishing.

Choosing the Right Book: 5-Finger Rule Explained

What is the #1 Most Read Book of All Time?

The most read book of all time is The Bible. It's estimated to have sold over 5 billion copies worldwide. It has been translated into more than 3,500 languages, making it the most translated and widely distributed book in history.

The Bible has two main parts: the Old Testament, which includes religious Jewish writings, and the New Testament, which tells the story of Jesus and the early Christian church. People read it for many reasons, including faith, study, moral guidance, and understanding its influence on culture and history.

Beyond religion, the Bible has shaped art, laws, language, and literature. Because of its lasting impact and global reach, it remains the most read and recognized book of all time.

15 Incredible and Worth Buying Books for National Read A Book Day

1. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

Twin girls grow up in a small Black town in the South but take very different paths as adults; one lives as a Black woman, the other passes as white. The story follows their families over generations, exploring identity, race, and the cost of hiding who you are.

Buy Here

2. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

Esperanza Cordero shares short stories about growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. Through her eyes, readers see the struggles and hopes of a young girl finding her place in the world. Esperanza's story helps us understand what it means to dream of more while holding on to where you come from.

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3. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

The novel follows two half-sisters from Ghana. One is forced into slavery and sent to America, while the other remains in Africa. Each chapter continues with the next generation, showing the impact of history on both families. Homegoing encourages readers to think about the roots of today's struggles and how stories can bring them to light.

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4. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Michelle Zauner writes about losing her mother and holding onto her Korean identity through food and memory. It's a personal story about grief, love, and learning how to move forward without letting go of the past. This memoir is honest and direct and shows how stories can offer healing.

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5. There There by Tommy Orange

Multiple Native American characters prepare for a powwow in Oakland, each carrying their own struggles, hopes, and history. Their stories come together to show the modern Native experience in an urban setting. This novel provides a platform for those voices and helps readers see a part of American life that is rarely told in such a powerful way.

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6. Educated by Tara Westover

Reading this book highlights how education can change a life. Tara Westover grew up in rural Idaho in a strict, isolated home with no formal schooling. She started going to school for the first time when she was seventeen years old and ended up getting a PhD from Cambridge University. Her journey shows the power of learning and the struggle to break away from the past.

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7. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah shares stories from his childhood in South Africa during apartheid. Born to a Black mother and a white father, his existence was literally a crime at the time. The book balances humor and pain while exploring race, identity, and resilience.

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8. Know My Name by Chanel Miller

Chanel Miller, once known only as "Emily Doe," tells her story as the survivor of the case of the sexual assault at Stanford. In this story, she takes back who she is and shares the emotional, legal, and personal journey that followed. This book is a strong example of how writing can speak truth, offer strength, and inspire change.

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9. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

A magical circus appears without warning, filled with wonders that only open at night. Behind it is a quiet contest between two young magicians, bound by a challenge they didn't choose. As the story unfolds, magic, love, and fate are woven together.

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10. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Nora Seed discovers herself in a library between life and death. Each book depicts a different version of her life based on the decisions she may have taken. As she analyzes these lives, she begins to understand what really matters. This novel helps readers reflect on regrets, second chances, and the value of being present in the life you have.

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11. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Elizabeth Zott was a brilliant chemist in the 1960s, but the world saw her only as a woman who didn't belong in science. After losing her lab job, she became the unlikely host of a cooking show, where she taught more than recipes. Through quiet resistance and sharp insight, she challenged norms and inspired change.

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12. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

In 1950s Mexico, Noemí Taboada is sent out of the way home to check on her cousin, only to uncover dark family secrets buried beneath the surface. Gothic horror blends with themes of control, power, and race, set against an eerie backdrop that feels both historical and timeless.

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13. Beloved by Toni Morrison

The story takes place after the Civil War and is about Sethe, a woman who was once enslaved and is haunted by her past and a spirit connected to a terrible choice she made. The story changes between the past and the present, showing the mental scars that slavery left behind.

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14. The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Told through letters, the life of Celie unfolds as she finds her voice in a world shaped by abuse, silence, and later, love and freedom. Through her words, readers witness the strength of women supporting each other against all odds.

Buy Here

15. Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

In a future where society has collapsed, fifteen-year-old Lauren Olamina creates a new belief system based on change and growth. Her journey through danger and uncertainty builds a vision for a better world, grounded in survival and hope.

Buy Here

Conclusion: How to Start a Reading Habit

National Read a Book Day is a chance to slow down and reconnect with the value of reading. Books help us learn, reflect, and see the world through different eyes. Taking time for a good story, whether for 10 minutes or an hour, can make a lasting difference.

Starting a reading habit doesn't have to be difficult. Try setting aside a few minutes each day or choosing one evening a week to read without distractions. Use a journal or reading app to track what you've read and what you want to read next.

Check out our full collection of books worth buying to get started today.

10 Powerful Self-Help Books That Could Change Your Life

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 17:48:29 GMT

Sometimes, one idea is enough to change everything. A few pages from the right book can show you a better way to deal with stress, help you break a bad habit, or give you the push you need to start something new. That's why self-help books have become such a valuable resource for individuals seeking to grow and improve.

And clearly, more people are turning to them. The self-improvement industry is expected to reach $54 billion by 2025, with books remaining one of its most trusted and accessible tools for change.

If you're curious about the impact of life-changing books, the list below is a great place to start. These 10 self-help books have helped millions of readers, and one of them is what you need right now.

Practicing What You Read From Recommended Self-Help Books

Reading self-help books can feel motivating in the moment, but real growth happens when you apply what you read. It's not about getting through as many books as possible. It's about taking the time to try the ideas out in real life.

Behavioral science backs this up. Studies show that people experience more personal growth when they combine reading with action, such as keeping a journal, setting goals, or tracking daily habits, compared to reading alone. In fact, research into neuroplasticity shows that our brains can physically change when we're exposed to new ways of thinking, especially when we practice those ideas consistently.

For example, a personal development book might suggest starting the day with intention. It sounds simple, but when you make it a daily habit, your brain begins to expect it. Over time, your thinking changes, and so does your behaviour.

Understanding Why The Best Self-Help Books Are Overrated

Not everyone is convinced that self-help books work, and that's fair. What resonates with one reader may seem obvious or unhelpful to another. That's because many self-help books repeat the same ideas: build habits, think positively, set goals. But repetition isn't a flaw; it's part of the design. Repetition helps form new habits, especially when you're trying to change long-standing behaviours. The goal is to help you actually do it.

Even when looking at the most important self-help books of all time , results vary. A global study found that while millions read some titles, their impact often depends on how readers engage with the material. Reading passively won't lead to much. But when people reflect, take notes, or apply the tools, they're more likely to see results.

10 Must-Read Self-Help Books Could Actually Change Your Life

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to personal growth, but these books offer clear ideas you can try in everyday life. Whether you want to build better habits, rethink how you handle stress, or boost your confidence, these titles have helped millions achieve the same. Here are some of the best and recommended self-help books:

1. Atomic Habits by James Clear

James Clear demonstrates how to implement small changes in your daily routine that yield long-term results. He explains the habit loop, which consists of cue, craving, response, reward, and provides clear strategies, such as habit stacking and environment design. You will learn how to stop doing bad things by replacing them with better ones that align with your goals.

2. Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty draws on his time living as a monk to teach mental clarity, gratitude, and purpose. He breaks down practical tools, such as breathwork, journaling, and intention setting, to help you manage stress and build focus. The book offers a step-by-step approach to shifting from distraction to direction.

3. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

Jen Sincero helps readers recognize self-doubt and stop letting fear hold them back. She combines personal stories with practical advice on money, relationships, and mindset to encourage readers to take action. You'll find exercises and affirmations designed to help you trust yourself and go after what you want.

4. **The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck** by Mark Manson

The book argues that life's struggles are necessary and demonstrates how choosing what to care about provides freedom. Mark Manson challenges the notion that happiness stems from consistently staying positive. Through stories and examples, he teaches how to accept failure, set boundaries, and live by your values.

5. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg

Charles Duhigg explains how habits shape our personal lives, careers, and communities. Using case studies from companies and real people, he shows how to change behaviour by identifying the cue-routine-reward cycle. The book provides practical techniques for replacing unhealthy habits with healthier ones that foster long-term success.

6. Grit by Angela Duckworth

Angela Duckworth examines why talent alone doesn't guarantee success. She uses research and real-life examples to demonstrate that perseverance, which she refers to as grit, is the key to achieving long-term goals. The book outlines how to build grit through passion, practice, and purpose, even when progress feels slow.

7. Offline Humans by Natalie Alzate

Natalie Alzate explores the impact of screen time on mental health and social connection. She offers a guide for stepping away from endless scrolling and rebuilding real-world habits that bring joy and clarity. Through personal stories and practical tips, she helps readers reconnect with themselves and the people around them.

8. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

Brené Brown invites readers to let go of who they think they should be and embrace who they are. She shares ten guideposts for living with courage, compassion, and connection, built on years of research in vulnerability and shame. The book encourages readers to live fully, even when life feels uncertain or messy.

9. The Mindful Way Workbook

The workbook provides an eight-week plan to reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional stress through mindfulness. It includes guided exercises, meditations, and reflection tools designed to help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. By following these steps, readers can develop daily habits that support mental clarity and calm.

10. Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans

Bill Burnett and Dave Evans use design thinking principles to help readers build a life that feels meaningful and aligned with their values. They walk you through exercises to explore different career paths, test new ideas, and move forward with confidence. The book is practical, hands-on, and ideal for individuals who are stuck or unsure about what to do next.

Most Frequent Questions When Reading Self-Help Books

The best self-help books can spark curiosity and sometimes doubt, because they often make big promises with simple solutions. Some readers wonder how a single book can change deeply rooted habits or fix years of stress, anxiety, or self-doubt. Others worry that these books oversimplify complex problems or repeat the same ideas without considering individual circumstances.

Still, many people find real value in them, especially when they read with an open mind and take action on the parts that resonate with them. Here are answers to the most common questions readers ask:

1. Do self-help books work?

They can, but not independently. Self-help books work best when you treat them as a starting point, not a solution. They offer guidance, ideas, and strategies, but the impact depends on how willing you are to reflect, take action, and stay consistent.

2. Can books change your mindset?

They can. Reading new ideas helps your brain form new patterns through a process called neuroplasticity. Many self-help books are designed to challenge unhelpful thinking and introduce better ways to respond to everyday challenges.

3. What are good self-help books?

The best self-help books cater to your specific needs at the moment. Some focus on habits and behavior, such as Atomic Habits and The Power of Habit, while others, like The Mindful Way Workbook or The Gifts of Imperfection, explore mindset and emotional well-being. The best book is the one that helps you take the next step in your own growth.

4. When did self-help books become popular?

Self-help books gained popularity in the early 20th century as more people sought practical advice on personal growth and success. Their popularity grew rapidly alongside changes in psychology, education, and publishing, and they remain widely read today.

Are Self-Help Books Right For You?

If you're looking to grow, reflect, or make a change, big or small, then self-help books can be right for you. They won't solve everything overnight, but they can offer clarity when you feel stuck, tools when you feel lost, and a starting point when you're ready for more.

The most important thing is choosing a book that speaks to your current needs. Whether you're building new habits, shifting your mindset, or learning to manage your time and energy, the right book can help you take that first step.

You don't need to read them all. One is enough to move you forward.

You can find all 10 featured titles and more at Lioness Books .

Defiance and the Censorship of Free Discourse: A Reflection on Banned Books Month

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:59:59 GMT

At Lioness Books, we believe that books are not merely a matter of ink and paper, but are armories brimming with the untamed ordinance of freedom, ideas, transformation, progress and inspiration; arsenals forged to fight the soul-silencing tyranny of ignorance and suppression.

Under current political conditions, the United States has seen an alarming escalation in the scope and scale of book censorship, with our great state of Texas leading the charge in aggressive restriction of accessing books which explore race, gender, sexuality, and social justice. In 2025, the banning of books has re-emerged not as a fringe idea or lesson in history, but as a strategy within a broader effort to control cultural narratives and shift our truths. Disguised as protection, this current call for censorship threatens the very essence of what a bookstore believes in and represents… a free exchange of ideas. We, as Texans, are standing at an epochal crossroads, facing a challenge that is not simply a battleground for intellectual freedom, but a fatal threat to democracy herself. Here at Lioness Books, we are resolute in our dedication to this struggle, and we are committed to fight without compromise nor capitulation.

Texas, more than any other state, leads the country in formal book challenges and bans. According to data from PEN America, a nonprofit organization that tracks censorship in literature, Texas school districts have led the nation in book bans for the past five years. These bans often target works of LGBTQ authors, books by and about people of color, and works that confront America’s historical injustices. The political justification tends to hinge on vague or loaded terms such as obscenity, indoctrination, or inappropriate content, without recognizing the literary or didactic value of the works in question.

What we are witnessing in Texas is not just a reaction to individual titles, but the deliberate use of censorship as a political weapon to reshape public education and discourse. State legislators have passed and proposed laws that limit how teachers can discuss race and gender in classrooms, and library materials are now under scrutiny from elected boards, whose knowledge of literature and learning is more often than not, slim to none. These developments are not isolated. They are part of a coordinated national trend that has pushed Texas out front as the ideological epicenter and political testing-ground for this refurnished brand of censorship.

These bans do more than remove books; they erase the experiences of marginalized communities, signaling to students - especially those from underrepresented groups - that their stories don’t matter. We believe our youth deserve better. They deserve literature that reflects the full spectrum of human experience, and to deny access to those diverse perspectives is to rob them of a chance to develop critical thinking, empathy, insight, and a nuanced understanding of the world.

The pages of history are stained with the consequences of book bans, a tactic employed by those who seek to suffocate the human spirit’s capacity for thought and soulful transformation. In Nazi Germany, the beginning flames of fascism were fed with kindling constructed of novels, poems, political papers, and science texts deemed un-German, degenerate , or contrary to the country’s nationalist ideology. Their 1933 book burnings were not vandalism but a calculated effort to erase ideas that threatened fascist control, setting the stage for the cultural and moral devastation that was soon to come. In the Jim Crow South, from Reconstruction through the Civil Rights era, books that affirmed the dignity of Black Americans or exposed the horrors of racism - like Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God - were systematically excluded from public access to preserve the narrative of racial inferiority. The McCarthy era in 1950s America also echoed this fear of ideas, as the government’s frantic, anti-communist crusade led to the blacklisting of authors, librarians, and teachers. Works such as Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience and John Steinbeck’s The Grapes Of Wrath were pulled from library shelves beneath the accusation of promoting leftist ideals, and for daring to question the status quo. History offers countless parallels: the 16th century burning of Mayan codices, and the erasing of indigenous knowledge by the Spanish, or the Chinese Communist Party’s destruction of counterrevolutionary texts during the Cultural Revolution. Each instance reveals censorship as the weapon of choice for those who fear the power of knowledge and the capacity of the right words to awaken consciences, stir emotions, and ignite movements of change. These lessons from the past compel us to resist the book bans of today, recognizing them as assaults on the very essence of intellectual and moral freedom.

Texas - where freedom and independence have long been considered God-given birthrights - we must resist being the next to fall into the goose-step march of oppression, censorship, and control. Our children deserve better. Our teachers deserve better. Our future deserves better, and our democracy - messy, plural, and defiant - demands better.

For Lioness Books, our resistance to this suppression is not just a matter of principle. It is a recognition of literature’s role in the eternal struggle for justice and truth. We call home a state where the political climate has become increasingly hostile towards dissent, and where public education is being transformed into a war of ideological conformity. As a bookstore, we are under no illusion that our shelves alone can halt these efforts. But we believe in the power that books possess in uniting and sustaining resistance and delivering hope.

By preserving access to stories, we preserve the heartful soul of culture; we preserve truth. When we defend the right to read; we affirm liberty and the right to question, dream, and dissent. This has nothing to do with nostalgia. This is survival.

Lioness Books will continue to stock what is banned, what is hidden, what is suppressed, and we will celebrate what is silenced. We will carry the voices forward proudly and full-throated.

Because history shows us, when you ban a book, you don’t erase its truth… you ignite its power.

Spotlight on the Texas Freedom to Read Project

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:00:02 GMT

Lioness Books is highlighting the freedom to read and the dangers of censorship this August with Banned Books Month. Anne Russey, co-founder of the Texas Freedom to Read Project, talks with us about advocating against book bans and censorship, and the biggest roadblocks they face in the process. Russey also shares the inspiration for their nonprofit organization as well as their mission and values.

We are running a social campaign all month long—DM us a photo of you with your favorite banned book to be featured on our socials (@lionessbookstx)! Check out our curated booklists featuring a variety of banned books on our Bookshop and Libro sites too.

AS: Introduce yourself and tell us about your background!

AR: “ Texas Freedom to Read Project is a parent-founded, parent-led 501c3 nonprofit organization fighting book bans and censorship in our state. Our co-founders are Laney Hawes (Fort Worth), Frank Strong (Austin), and Anne Russey (Katy). We are parents of Texas public school students. We juggle the full-time advocacy work of Texas Freedom to Read Project in whatever margins we manage to carve out of our lives. We are two moms and a dad who had enough people censoring and removing books from our kids’ schools under the guise of “parents rights” and “protecting kids.” We are parents, too, and we believe the majority of parents love and trust our public school libraries, librarians, and teachers as much as we do. We’re working to let fellow Texans- especially parents- know that the freedom to read is under attack in Texas, and how they can join us in fighting back.”

AS: What was the initial inspiration for the Texas Freedom to Read Project?

AR: “We first connected on Twitter (of all places!) around 2021-2022 when book challenges were on the rise in each of our communities and throughout the state. We realized the same strategies were being deployed in Keller ISD and Katy ISD , and throughout the state to overwhelm and bully public school districts into complying with the demands of book challengers. We were distraught and confused by the coordinated efforts we were seeing to attack the credibility of our beloved public school educators, and to undermine our rights as parents, and those of our children. Together we began to brainstorm and strategize ways we could fight back to protect and defend our kids’ freedom to read and learn.

We watched as librarians organized through Texas FReadom Fighters and students advocated through Students Engaged in Advancing Texas (SEAT).

AS: What was the initial inspiration for the Texas Freedom to Read Project?

We watched as librarians organized through Texas FReadom Fighters and students advocated through Students Engaged in Advancing Texas (SEAT).

We stayed in touch with each other, but pretty much fought on our own in our respective communities, each anticipating (and hoping) a parent-led group—like Florida Freedom to Read Project —would pop up in Texas. We eventually looked at each other and realized we were it. If we wanted a parent group, it was up to us to make it happen. No one was coming to save us.

With the blessing of our mentors/big sisters/cheerleaders at Florida Freedom to Read Project, and support from friends we had made at organizations EveryLibrary and PEN America , Texas Freedom to Read Project launched in November 2023.”

AS: Introduce us to your organization! What is the Texas Freedom to Read Project all about?

AR: “Texas Freedom to Read Project supports, connects, and mobilizes fellow parents, and everyday Texans, to combat book bans and censorship in Texas. We believe the first amendment rights of our children—and all Texans—are on the line, and worth fighting for.

We believe every parent has the right to guide their own child’s reading choices, but no one else has the right to make those choices for our kids (or other people’s kids)! We believe book bans harm our kids, not help them.

Practically speaking, we stay really busy. The work of the Texas Freedom to Read Project has quickly become a full-time volunteer commitment for all of us. Throughout the year, we participate in events and community forums at local bookstores, host tables at festivals and conferences, and collaborate with organizing partners on trainings, webinars, and working groups. We utilize our website and social media platforms to share stories of censorship happening in Texas, to inform the public—and sometimes the news media—about the latest unbelievable thing we have heard (and been able to verify). We issue calls to action through our email list to fellow Texas book-lovers to let them know practical steps they can take to advocate against bad policies and laws, and for the freedom to read.

Finally, while we aren’t doing any of this for recognition—and in fact, we really wish no one had to do any of this at all—we are really proud of being nominated for and awarded the Sam G. Whitten Intellectual Freedom Award by the Texas Library Association, for 2025.”

AS: What book bans has your team been dealing with recently?

AR: “Book banners have largely moved away from challenging individual titles. Instead we have seen an increase in political and religious groups sending long lists of books to multiple school districts at a time. Often times these emailed lists include statements that if a school district doesn’t comply with removing all of the 600+ books from their libraries (which may or may not be in the school catalog to begin with), an activist will show up at a public board meeting and read an excerpt from a book usually geared towards young adult or adult level readers (usually a scene with sexual content or profanity that sounds shocking and offensive when read out of context out loud in a public setting).

Right before school got out for summer, we learned Nacogdoches ISD responded to one of these threatening emails from a Texas GOP committee chair, who lives outside the district, ordering the high school librarian to remove hundreds of books from school library shelves, without following their reconsideration policy. NISD parents, students, and community members packed their May school board meeting with speakers who called out the removal of the books which violated board policy and asked the trustees to intervene.

We are also watching the restriction of over 400 LGBTQ+ books from Katy ISD library shelves, which were pulled following the school board’s decision to ban books that “promote gender fluidity” in junior high and elementary libraries, and require parent opt-in for high school students.

It’s unclear the fate of those books, because the districts have not offered any public updates during the summer months. But we are watching that closely, and hoping the districts will review the books and return them to shelves before the start of the new school year.”

AS: What is the importance and value of fighting back against book bans?

AR: “While we know many librarians, students, organizations, and authors who have been doing the hard work of speaking up and advocating against book bans and censorship in Texas for years, we also believe this is a fight we have to engage in as parents. The movement to restrict and ban books is largely framed by book banners as a “parents’ rights” movement—so we need to counter that message at every turn.

The fight for “parents’ rights” and “parent choice” in Texas has never been about the rights or choices of all parents. Parents like us who love and value our public schools, and want to protect our children’s first amendment rights to read and access books and information, have never been considered in that movement.

So we are building our own movement! We are parents who are giving everything we have to fight FOR our families’ freedom to read and we hope other parents (and book-loving Texans) will join us.”

AS: What are the biggest roadblocks your team faces in the work that you do?

AR: “We just wrapped up a busy few months advocating against some pretty terrible book ban bills in the Texas legislature . Thanks to the efforts of a broad coalition of advocacy partners, we had some victories—like stopping a book store bounty bill (HB 1375) and a public library law that likely would have severely restricted teenagers' access to the public library, if not banned them from the library entirely (HB 3225). We also suffered some really brutal losses that will have lasting, possibly catastrophic impacts on our school libraries. We are most concerned about SB 13 —a law that essentially takes the worst and most restrictive local school library policies we have seen (like those in place in Keller ISD and Katy ISD) and makes them state law. It also gives school boards the option to appoint representatives of their choosing to “School Library Advisory Committees” that will oversee (aka micromanage) book selection, purchasing, book challenges, and removals.

Most districts previously left challenged books on shelves, accessible to students while the reconsideration process played out, but SB 13 now requires challenged books to be removed immediately. So now, when a politician or political activist sends their list of 800+ books to school districts (that often include titles like Anne Frank’s Diary: the Graphic Adaptation , The Handmaid’s Tale , and The Color Purple ) the challengers will expect every single title to be taken off of shelves immediately.

While school districts and school boards have long held (appropriately, we think) the right to remove books that are “pervasively vulgar” and “educationally unsuitable,” SB 13 adds new removal criteria including books deemed “indecent,” “profane,” and “inconsistent with local community values” which we think will result in a whole new wave of book challenges and bans.

So as our dear friend, Stephana Ferrel at Florida Freedom to Read Project explains—historically there’s a pendulum that swings in public schools, and in society, that moves back and forth based on what people, politics, and culture deem “acceptable” at any given time—but the more states like Florida and Texas pass legislation that creates barriers to stop the pendulum from swinging back, the more stuck we are going to be in the place we find ourselves now. Which is very, very far to the “right” - a place where diverse and inclusive stories are perceived as “woke” and “inconsistent with community values.” A place where books about farting snow men are considered “obscene” and stories about itty bitty pink kitty cats who want to be unicorns are considered “ sexually suggestive .” A place that doesn’t believe teenagers are mature enough or capable enough to read and process books and stories that contain hard and painful themes and content that have challenged readers and helped us grow and learn for decades. A place we very much don’t want to stay.”

AS: How has your organization changed and evolved over the years?

AR: “We have realized over the past two years that book bans aren’t going away anytime soon. We’ve also seen as some districts like Cyfair ISD and Conroe ISD have censored chapters in certain text books, and Lamar Consolidated ISD turned off student access to a digital lesson on the state of Virginia (their state flag has boobs on it), that censorship takes many forms—and is not limited to library books.

We continue to try and figure out how to help people connect the dots between the anti-public education/pro-voucher policies, Christian Nationalism, and book bans. We’re also navigating an evolving and changing landscape in terms of local, state, and federal laws, executive orders, and politics that impact the work we are trying to do.

On our worst days, we worry “everywhere is Texas now” and feel like nothing we are doing is enough. And on our best days, we look at each other and the thousands of other Texans who are fighting and working every day to make our state work better for all of us, and feel immensely grateful to be right where we are.”

AS: How can people support and join the Texas Freedom to Read Project?

AR: “There are over 1200 school districts in Texas. We are three parents. We can’t possibly know what is happening in every district, so if you see something that concerns you- let us know! We can help trouble shoot, brainstorm and strategize. We can amplify local stories on our website and our platforms. You are best suited to tell the stories about how book bans and censorship are impacting your community. We are here to help you do that!

Join our volunteer email list ( https://www.txftrp.org/volunteer )! We desperately need more parents to speak up publicly with their concerns on the local and state level. We need more parent volunteers we can call on who support the freedom to read, and are willing and able to travel to Austin to testify at State Board of Education meetings, and any other legislative hearings or sessions that take place between now and the next legislative session scheduled for 2027. So please let us know when you sign up, if that’s something you’re interested in doing!”

Donate: https://www.txftrp.org/donate

Shop our Bonfire store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/texas-freedom-to-read-project/

Email us ( info@txftrp.org ) to let us know how book bans and censorship are impacting your community. We can help.

Stewardship Of Resistance: Lioness Curates Rare and Collectables

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:21:24 GMT

In a world increasingly built on the transient, the trendy, the swift, and the disposable, rare and antiquarian books stand as testaments to permanence, intention, and the physicality of knowledge. They are not simply vessels of content, but expressions of culture; culture you can touch and preserve.

At Lioness Books, our mission transcends the simple act of selling books. It is about curating experiences, assembling libraries not only of words, but of meaning. That is why we have decided to expand our collection to include antiquarian, rare, and collectible books. This is a natural progression for us, not a TikTok craze or a trend driven pivot. It is a purposeful expansion born from our core values, an evolution committed to depth and legacy. For in the world of books, trends are fleeting but legacy always endures.

Let’s define our terms carefully, because this is a space where language matters. The distinctions between antiquarian, rare, and collectible books are rooted in their origins and significance. Antiquarian books, typically born before the boom of industrial printing, are historical artifacts. Printed on handmade paper and bound by artisans, they were labors of love and craft, and from an era when books were considered treasures, often housed in private collections and passed down from generation to generation.

Rare books, regardless of age, are valued by their scarcity, whether due to limited printing, notable provenance, historical suppression, or singular attributes like authorial inscriptions or errata; a first edition of Galileo’s “Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems” (printed in 1632 and banned by the Inquisition), and Harriet Ann Jacobs’s slave narrative “Incidents In The Life Of A Slave Girl” are both perfect examples of this rarity.

Collectible books, while sometimes overlapping with antiquarian and rare, are defined by their historical, cultural, or aesthetic significance. For example, a signed first edition of Dickens’s “A Tale of Two Cities” or the seminal and prosecuted poetry collection “The Love Book” by counterculture icon Lenore Kandel, are both considered collectible, along with illustrated editions, niche genres, or books with personal inscriptions. These treasures are often coveted due to their unique ability to encapsulate pivotal moments in literary history or embody the personal, artistic touch of their creators, making them cherished pieces of our cultural heritage.

The allure of these books is their capacity to signify beyond their content. A rare book, such as a copy of a 19th-century abolitionist pamphlet, is a codex of resistance, its scarcity a testament to what it defied. An antiquarian book, with its marginalia or bookplate, becomes a linked-text, connecting readers across the centuries through recognized and shared engagement. Collectible books, whether valued for their aesthetic beauty or their role in literary history, are icons of cultural memory, their value amplified by the stories they carry. For the book lover, handling such volumes is a dialogue with the past that reveals the eternal power of the written word.

At Lioness Books, we consider our expansion into the antiquarian, rare, and collectible book market an act of cultural stewardship, a commitment to preserving the material signs of human thought and creation. These books are not mere commodities but relics. They are legacies and testimonies which outlast trends, endure censorship, and speak to us from generations past. To engage with them is not just to read, but to remember, to feel, to understand, and to inherit.

To make our collection more accessible, we have launched an eBay storefront, where the majority of our rare and antiquarian collection will be available to browse and purchase. This platform allows us to reach a broader audience (collectors, scholars, and passionate readers around the world) while ensuring each book is accurately described, carefully packaged, and treated with the care it deserves. For those who prefer the immediacy of browsing in person, we are curating a rotating in-store selection of notable works - titles chosen not only for their value or rarity but for the way they resonate with our community and the literary spirit of Lioness.

In this era of doom-scrolling and self-serving algorithmic curation, we offer an alternative: intentionality. To collect a rare book is to rebel against disposability. To preserve an antiquarian volume is to guard the voices that history tried violently to silence. And to walk into a store like ours is to believe that discovery still matters, that there are still books waiting to find you, and still readers who will know what it means when they do.

We at Lioness invite you to join us in this new chapter, and we encourage all collectors, readers, historians, and lovers of the written word to support small local businesses like ours, especially now. The existence of independent bookstores like Lioness depends on a community that still believes in craftsmanship, care, and the power held in objects that bear our stories, our sufferings, and our splendor. Because that’s what books are. They are not simply commodities, they are evidence. Of defiance. Of beauty. Of brilliance that refuses to disappear.

12 Best Young Adult Novels to Read on International Youth Day

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 20:10:38 GMT

International Youth Day is held on 12 August and was created by the United Nations to honour the voices and ideas of young people. It’s a day to recognise the role youth play in building a fairer and more inclusive world.

To honour the day, we’ve put together a list of 12 young adult novels that explore themes like identity, strength, friendship, and change . All of these books are available through our network of independent bookstores in the USA, so by reading them, you’re also supporting local communities.

1." The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon

This story follows two teenagers from very different backgrounds who meet by chance in New York City. One is facing deportation to Jamaica, and the other is under pressure to follow a strict life plan set by his Korean American family.

Over the course of one day, their connection challenges what they believe about love, fate, and the future. It’s a thoughtful look at immigration, cultural identity, and the choices young people make when their lives feel out of their control.

Purchase The Sun Is Also a Star

2. "Clap When You Land" by Elizabeth Acevedo

Two teenage girls are living in different countries, one in New York City, the other in the Dominican Republic, when they discover they share the same father after his sudden death in a plane crash. As they process their grief, they begin to uncover long-held family secrets.

This novel is written in verse and explores sisterhood, loss, and finding trust after betrayal. It highlights how young people can grow stronger when faced with painful truths and unexpected change.

Purchase Clap When You Land

3. "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez

After the sudden death of her older sister, a teenager tries to make sense of her family’s expectations while uncovering secrets her sister left behind. Living in a traditional Mexican American household, she struggles with grief, cultural pressure, and her own plans for the future.

This novel gives an honest look at mental health, family roles, and identity. It speaks to young people who feel torn between different parts of themselves and the people they want to become.

Purchase I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

4. "Sunrise on the Reaping" by Suzanne Collins

This prequel to The Hunger Games takes readers back to the 50th Hunger Games, long before Katniss Everdeen’s time. It follows a new set of characters living under the same harsh system, where survival depends on strength, strategy, and luck.

The story looks closely at power, fear, and what it means to resist. It gives a voice to young people living in systems they didn’t create but must find a way to challenge.

Purchase Sunrise on the Reaping

5. "Silverborn: The Mystery of Morrigan Crow" by Jessica Townsend

In the latest Nevermoor book, Morrigan Crow continues to explore her place in a magical world where not everyone is welcome. She faces hidden truths, powerful enemies, and new lessons about her own identity.

This series shows a young girl learning to stand up for herself while also protecting others. It speaks to the importance of courage, fairness, and belonging—especially when growing up means facing things that don’t always make sense.

Purchase Silverborn: The Mystery of Morrigan Crow

6. "The Enchanted Greenhouse" by Sarah Beth Durst

Two sisters discover a magical greenhouse that seems to respond to their emotions. As they spend time there, they learn more about themselves and the world around them.

This is a gentle story about change, hope, and connection. It reminds readers that even in small, quiet moments, young people are always growing, sometimes in ways they don’t notice right away. It’s a story about healing and the value of being open to something new.

Purchase The Enchanted Greenhouse

7. "We Are Not From Here" by Jenny Torres Sanchez

This novel follows Pulga, Chico, and Pequeña—three teens who flee violence in Guatemala and journey north through Mexico toward the U.S. border. Their path is dangerous and uncertain, but driven by hope. Through their voices, the story shows the real struggles faced by many young migrants.

It’s a powerful look at courage, friendship, and the search for safety, encouraging readers to think deeply about justice, borders, and human dignity.

Purchase We Are Not From Here

8. "A Thousand Steps into Night" by Traci Chee

In this fantasy tale inspired by Japanese folklore, Miuko is cursed to slowly become a demon. She leaves her quiet village to break the curse and discovers a world filled with gods, spirits, and power struggles.

Along the way, she learns what it means to speak up in a world that tells her to stay quiet. The story reflects real-world questions about gender, freedom, and who gets to decide their own future.

Purchase A Thousand Steps into Night

9. "Iron Widow" by Xiran Jay Zhao

In a world where girls are used to power giant battle machines, a young woman takes a stand after her sister dies. She joins the system that took everything from her, but instead of following the rules, she fights to change them.

This story mixes science fiction with history and challenges ideas about gender, power, and control. It’s a strong reminder that young people can question unfair systems, and rewrite them.

Purchase Iron Widow

10. “The Grace Year” by Kim Liggett

In Garner County, girls are sent into isolation for a year when they turn sixteen. The community believes this “grace year” removes their dangerous magic. Most don’t return the same. Tierney, the main character, begins to see how fear and control shape their lives.

The story explores survival, power, and gender-based violence in a rigid society. It encourages readers to question harmful traditions and reflect on how young people are taught to follow or resist.

Purchase The Grace Year

11. “The Black Flamingo” by Dean Atta

This novel follows Michael, a mixed-race British teen growing up between cultures and expectations. He feels out of place until he discovers drag, a space where he can explore who he is without fear. Written in free verse, the book gently explores race, masculinity, and queer identity.

Michael’s journey is about self-expression, pride, and being seen. It’s a strong example of how creative spaces can help young people define themselves on their own terms.

Purchase The Black Flamingo

12. "Piecing Me Together" by Renée Watson

Jade is a thoughtful and driven African American teen who lives in a low-income neighbourhood but attends a mostly white private school on a scholarship. She’s proud of her abilities, especially in art, but often feels that adults focus more on “fixing” her than listening to her. When she’s placed in a mentorship programme, she begins to speak out about inequality in her school and community.

The story explores race, privilege, and what real support looks like.

Purchase Piecing Me Together

Ready to Read, Reflect, and Support Local?

Each of these stories offers a window into the lives, challenges, and voices of young people today. Whether you’re reading for yourself, your classroom, or your community, we believe these books invite powerful conversations about identity, justice, and belonging, and empower the next generation to lead with empathy and courage.

You can find many of these titles right here at Lioness Books . We're a proudly independent, community-focused bookshop based in Texas. And we're thrilled to be opening our first permanent location in Old Town Leander , bringing even more books, events, and literacy resources to local readers.

Visit our homepage to browse, shop, or see where our mobile bookshop is headed next. We’d love to see you there.

Disability Pride Month: Spotlight on Authors with Disabilities

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:26:55 GMT

July is Disability Pride Month and commemorates the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Lioness Books is celebrating this month by featuring authors with disabilities, amplifying their voices, and highlighting literature that focuses on self-representation, reclamation, inclusion, and history.

Here are some authors with disabilities and literature to engage with this month and beyond:

Octavia E. Butler

Born in Pasadena, California in 1947, Octavia E. Butler remains a trailblazer in writing science fiction and one of the first female and African American writers in the genre. As stated by the National Women’s History Museum, Butler struggled in school as a child due to dyslexia and loved to read and make up stories. At age nine, she found her calling of writing science fiction, and today her stories and books containing themes of racial injustice, women’s rights, global warming, and political inequality are widely renowned. Butler’s eerie dystopian modern classic Parable of the Sower follows the life of a young girl in a post-apocalyptic world of disaster caused by climate change and economic crisis.

Purchase Parable of the Sower

Purchase Audiobook

Joshua Trujillo/seattlepi.com, via Associated Press

Octavia E. Butler

Purchase Parable of the Sower

Purchase Audiobook

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/ilya-kaminsky , via Poetry Foundation

Ilya Kaminsky

At just four years old, Ilya Kaminsky lost most of his hearing due to a medical misdiagnosis in his hometown of Odessa, Ukraine. According to the Poetry Foundation, upon being granted political asylum by the United States in 1993 and his father’s death in 1994, he began to write poetry in English. He went on to gain two degrees, co-found Poets for Peace , and collect many accolades for his poems. His 2019 poetry collection Deaf Republic , tells the story of a country in political turmoil where all of the citizens become deaf and learn to use sign language due to the killing a deaf boy.

Purchase Deaf Republic

Purchase Audiobook

Jean-Dominique Bauby

Jean-Dominique Bauby was born in France in 1952 and studied in Paris. He went on to become a journalist and the editor-in-chief of Elle magazine in Paris. In 1995, a stroke paralyzed Jean-Dominique Bauby and left him without the ability to speak or move, otherwise known as locked-in syndrome. A career journalist, Bauby was determined to continue to write and let everyone know that he would not let his new condition engulf him. As noted in Time magazine, he wrote a memoir titled Le Scaphandre et le Papillon using a system composed of blinking his left eye—his only motor skill left—and a special alphabet formed by his nurses. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is the English translation of Bauby’s memoir about his experiences living with locked-in syndrome and his devotion to not let it defeat him. It encompasses his joy, irony, and suffering all at once and sold out on its first release.

Purchase The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

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DR, https://www.susannalea.com/sla-author/jean-dominique-bauby/

Jean-Dominique Bauby

Purchase The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Purchase Audiobook

Peter Nicholson

https://www.lowellhandler.com/about/

Lowell Handler

An educator, photographer, filmmaker, and author, Lowell Handler has lived many lives. His photos have appeared in a plethora of major magazines and newspapers and his personal documentary was nominated for an Emmy and won the San Francisco International Film Festival. Twitch and Shout is the title of both Lowell Handler’s personal documentary and memoir about his life and experiences with Tourette syndrome. As noted on his website, Handler’s memoir “is a heartfelt and often humorous effort to reclaim and humanize a disorder that can keep others at a distance.”

Purchase Twitch and Shout

An honorable mention is Uncanny magazine’s 24th issue, “Disabled People Destroy Science Fiction.” This issue contains short-fiction, poetry, and essays by numerous authors with overarching themes of reconfiguring the science fiction genre, dismantling and rejecting certain narratives, and making space for a variety of disabled voices, characters, and stories.

Find the manifesto here and the issue here .

Via Uncanny magazine

Find the manifesto here and the issue here .

Anthologies & Collections:

Via Penguin Random House

Anthologies & Collections:

Disability Visibility: First Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century

Edited by Alice Wong, this anthology of first-person writing from disabled authors, activists, artists, politicians, lawyers, and more brings perspectives and voices that often go without notice and are highly misrepresented and underrepresented, to light.

Purchase Disability Visibility

Purchase Audiobook

Disability Visibility: First Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century

Purchase Disability Visibility

Purchase Audiobook

About Us: Essays from the Disability Series of the New York Times

This essay collection contains personal first-hand accounts from people living with disabilities. It is edited by Peter Catapano and Rosemarie Garland–Thomson, and the various authors aim to reclaim space riddled with misrepresentation and stereotypes by telling their own stories and experiences.

Purchase About Us

Purchase Audiobook

Via Bookshop.org

About Us: Essays from the Disability Series of the New York Times

Purchase About Us

Purchase Audiobook

Via Bookshop.org

What We Have Done: An Oral History of the Disability Rights Movement

In What We Have Done , Fred Pelka presents the history and voices of the Disability Rights Movement from 1950 to 1990 with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It chronicles the ways in which disability has come to be viewed as a political issue and how people with disabilities have had to fight for equal representation and participation.

Purchase What We Have Done

Summer Reads Bingo Game

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:05 GMT

Lioness Books is welcoming the sunshine this July and celebrating summer reading! Incorporating reading and promoting literacy over the summer holiday is not only important, but should be fun and relaxing! Therefore, we created a summer reading bingo game for everyone to enjoy.

Check out our summer reads July booklist here , and challenge your friends and/or family to see who can get a bingo first! Happy summer reading!

On Our (Paper)Backs: The New Lesbian Pulp

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:22:00 GMT

Book Review by B. Rushton

In mid-twentieth century America, the publishing industry was revolutionized by the streamlined production of pulp novels. The printing and distribution of cheaply produced and cheaply priced paperback novels, which had begun in the late 1930s, steadily grew until it reached its full force in the early 1950s. These books were sold at drugstores, newsstands, and other places where one might purchase inexpensive, consumable entertainment. They were compact enough to fit in your pocket and cheap enough to discard when you were through with them which, given the surreptitious nature of purchasing these books, was sometimes a necessity.

It was in this environment that the burge oning golden age of lesbian pulp novels took place, where new, independent publishers made transgressive fantasies of lesbian life available to readers through dime-store shelves or discreet mail-order catalogues. While many of these titillating books were aimed at an audience of curious heterosexual men, it was also through these clandestine entertainments that many lesbians found the maps and signposts for entering the half-hidden world of their own sexualities. The transportive power of reading these books gave reflection to the hidden desires of readers that often could find no expression beyond the wood-pulp pages of their imaginations. Even well into the women's liberation movement, pulp novels like these were like life-preservers for lesbians seeking community.

Today, with the democratizing force of the internet and independent publishing companies like Feminist Press , the climate of accessibility for these stories is much different, but the spirit of seeking representation for one's fantasies and passions is still just as vital to the shaping of one's identity.

The New Lesbian Pulp , edited by Sarah Foncesca and Octavia Saenz, is an anthology that collects contemporary, titillating short lesbian fiction while also reprinting a few rare stories of the previous century that penetrated the veil of sexual censorship. It is a collection that evokes the freedom and pleasure of classic pulp fiction, synthesizing a ‘purposeful nostalgia’ that captures the enduring passions and longings of same-sex desire.

Two stories that stand out from this collection are Smoke and Sea Breeze , a contemporary work by Lillian James about a gruesome love triangle wherein a trophy wife murders her philandering husband with the help of his seductive assistant, and Chanson Du Konallis , a reprint of a 1958 story by playwright Lorraine Hansberry about a high society lady who struggles to maintain her carapace of restraint in the presence of a beautiful African-American songstress.

Both stories express timeless feelings of yearning, provocative escapism and freedom. This collection would be worth seeking out for those two works alone, but it contains far more - the cumulative effect of these stories is a fervent articulation of our need to connect to others in a shared human experience, to remind ourselves that we are not alone across time. Moreover, this book is deeply fun in a way that reminds me of all the books I read with un-pretentious, wild enthusiasm when I was seventeen, and that is a sacred feeling I hope others will share.

If you are feeling discouraged this June by contemporary political repression, then I cannot think of a more fitting book to remind us of what we gain by reading and connecting with our culture through fiction. Or, even if you're just feeling bored and would love to sink your teeth into a new juicy - or, dare I say, pulpy - guilty pleasure, then I cannot recommend this selection more highly.

The New Lesbian Pulp will be released on August 12th, 2025 and can be pre-ordered through Lioness Books online store here .

B. Rushton is an independent artist and writer from Texas. Creating has always been as essential to her nature as exhaling air from her body. She has had a lifelong passion for freedom of expression, community, and literature, and is proud to express those values through her work. When she's not creating, she's inhaling as much art as possible. You can reach her at brushtondesigns@gmail.com .

Vision Night for the New Lioness Books Brick and Mortar

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:57:25 GMT

Photos by: John Miller

Bookstores belong to the community. Lioness Books embraces this philosophy and is opening a new independent bookstore! We recently opened the doors of our new brick and mortar for a Vision Night to gather feedback from local authors, artists, community leaders, and key stakeholders about what people want to see in their local bookstore.

The idea for the night was to give people the chance to walk through the store before it is renovated, gather ideas and hopes for what the store can become, and foster connection and collaboration between local authors, artists, businesses, and creatives.

Photos by: John Miller

We started curating the event by placing ten open-ended questions on the walls around the store and giving everyone a pen and sticky-notes to answer them. The questions guided everyone clockwise around the space beginning with refreshments and ending with writing Vision Postcards to the Future . The postcards contained the question: “What do you hope this bookstore becomes for the community?” and will be displayed in the brick and mortar when we open.

Here are the ten questions we displayed at Vision Night:

What kind of atmosphere would make you want to spend time in a bookstore?
What genres or categories do you feel are underrepresented in local bookstores?
What kinds of events would you be excited to attend here (author readings, bookclubs, workshops, etc.)?
What types of non-book items would you be excited to find in the store?
What kinds of family or children’s events would be meaningful to your household or community?
How could a bookstore partner with a local business like yours?
Who in your network might be a great fit for partnering with us on future events?
How could our space support your daily life or work needs?
What local causes or nonprofits do you feel a bookstore like ours should support or collaborate with?
Is there anything else you wish a bookstore would do that you’ve never seen before?

Here are the ten questions we displayed at Vision Night:

What kind of atmosphere would make you want to spend time in a bookstore?
What genres or categories do you feel are underrepresented in local bookstores?
What kinds of events would you be excited to attend here (author readings, bookclubs, workshops, etc.)?
What types of non-book items would you be excited to find in the store?
What kinds of family or children’s events would be meaningful to your household or community?
How could a bookstore partner with a local business like yours?
Who in your network might be a great fit for partnering with us on future events?
How could our space support your daily life or work needs?
What local causes or nonprofits do you feel a bookstore like ours should support or collaborate with?
Is there anything else you wish a bookstore would do that you’ve never seen before?

Upon consolidating and reviewing the responses we received, one point stood out to us—having the bookstore as a Third Space is very important. Furthermore, as a Third Space, the atmosphere must be safe, accessible, cozy, and laid-back while encouraging literacy and creativity—a home away from home. Comfortable seating, natural and soft lighting, plants, vintage decor, and chill music were some physical aspects highlighted in the answers.

Having a work/study area with desk space and free wifi in the bookstore is also important to the community. A co-working environment and accommodations for people who work from home were mentioned numerous times in the responses.

Hosting community projects such as a zine, lit wall, or journal was another key point we found. Something to bring people together while fostering creativity in this space for all is clearly significant and meaningful.

We also gathered information about future events, partnerships, underrepresented genres and categories, non-book items, and local causes and nonprofits. This night of community and collaboration was just the beginning. Thank you to everyone who came to Vision Night!

→ SEE THE FULL CHART OF TRENDS AND RESPONSES HERE

Come by our trailer at the Old Town Street Festival on June 7th in Old Town Leander from 11am to 10pm— we will be collecting more input from the community! See you there!

→ SEE THE FULL CHART OF TRENDS AND RESPONSES HERE

Come by our trailer at the Old Town Street Festival on June 7th in Old Town Leander from 11am to 10pm— we will be collecting more input from the community! See you there!

Spotlight on Local Queer ATX

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Co-founders of Local Queer ATX , Caleb Armstrong (he/they) and Chase Brunson (he/him), share the inspiration behind their organization and tell us about their non-profit, Pride Month events, and monthly book club called The Local Queer Book Club.

AS: Can you start by introducing yourselves and telling us about your backgrounds?

CA & CB: “We’re Caleb Armstrong (he/they) and Chase Brunson (he/him), co-founders of Local Queer! We’ve been organizing queer community events since we met at Texas A&M in 2013. While at A&M, we founded Transcend, the university’s first recognized organization dedicated to transgender and gender expansive students and faculty. We also lobbied to have Texas A&M pay for the queer community to walk in the 2017 Houston Pride Parade—pretty exciting for a campus consistently ranked in the top 10 least LGBT friendly universities. So, when people ask us how we manage Local Queer we simply tell them it’s what we’ve always done! It also helps that outside of Local Queer, we are both event industry professionals operating in the nonprofit space. We have working experience planning galas, fundraisers, conferences, seminars, and other events which you can see reflected into everything we do for Local Queer.”

AS: Introduce us to Local Queer ATX! What was the initial inspiration for it?

CA & CB: “Three years doesn’t seem like that long ago, but the queer scene in Austin has changed so much since Local Queer was founded in 2022. We saw a need to connect queer women, sapphics, and gender expansive individuals in Austin as we felt that these populations were often overshadowed in larger LGBT community spaces that cater to cis gay men. We attended an event known as Queer Camp in 2021, where we met our friend Molly Syndor that had founded a queer group—known as Local Queer Collective—in Dallas.

We loved the vibe and wanted to bring a similar group to Austin so after attending Queer Camp again in 2022, we officially launched Local Queer in Austin. Since 2022, we’ve experienced rapid growth and are now recognized as the largest organization in the area dedicated to sapphic and gender expansive identities.”

AS: How has your organization changed or evolved since it started in 2022?

CA & CB: “In 2022 we started throwing small events, mostly happy hours and park gatherings, with the goal of just connecting the communities together and providing a space for these identities to make friends. Today, these cornerstone events continue, but we’re up to four monthly recurring meet ups now and a walk club that meets every single Monday! Each month you can meet new queer friends at a happy hour, move series, full moon celebration, or our book club. In addition to our recurring meetups, we average 10-15 different events each month ranging from club nights, boat parties, fundraisers, craft nights, advocacy trainings, and more. We love hosting community gatherings and events, and will try just about anything once to see if it sticks.”

AS: Tell us more about your non-profit, the Local Queer Foundation!

CA & CB: “We officially became a recognized 501C3 in August 2024! We formed the nonprofit in direct response to Greg Abbott and Ken Paxton’s relentless attacks on transgender Texans and our first fundraiser—Transistance—raised over $8,000! We used those donations to host passport clinics in partnership with Austin Public Libraries that provided financial aid to the gender expansive community to update their identification documents with their correct name and gender markers. More than 100 trans and gender expansive Austinites were able to apply for correct passports before the inauguration. Our next big event is Queer Camp, held over Memorial Day Weekend, and through the foundation we’ve been able to financially sponsor five camper spots for BIPOC trans community members.”

AS: Do you have any special plans or events coming up for Pride Month?

CA & CB: “For Pride Month we’re back at Lake Travis for our 3rd annual Pride Boat Party on June 14th—it’s the largest queer boat party in Austin! We’ll also be partnering with the Austin Motel for a queer singles and friend finder mixer on June 26th—anyone looking for a lover or new friends will have a great time playing games and taking a dip in the iconic pool! We’re also working on a pride party at a local club, details to be announced soon. Our June Move Series (held on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 6PM) where we gather to move our bodies in less traditional workout ways will be Pride themed and our weekly walk club on Mondays—Strut—will feature a rainbow walk night.”

AS: Tell us more about your monthly book club, the Local Queer Book Club! How do you choose the books that you read and how can people join?

CA & CB: “We meet on the last Wednesday of each month, around 6:30 pm usually at a branch of Austin Public Library or at Central Market on their patio. We read just about every genre there is while focusing on choosing books with queer themes or by queer authors across the spectrum. We select our books at book club or people can give suggestions in our discord group chat if they can’t make it in person. You can join the book club by RSVPing through the link in our instagram bio, website, or discord server. Our website is www.localqueer.org !”

AS: How can people get involved, join, and support Local Queer ATX?

CA & CB: “There are plenty of ways to join, get involved, and support us! We’d love to see you at an event, have you join our volunteer team, or tell local businesses about us. Our calendar of events is posted on our Instagram page and on our website. You can also find a link to sign up as a volunteer in both of those places as well! Our volunteers are a huge part of how we keep Local Queer going. Our volunteers help support events by running the check in tables, setting up for events, greeting people and creating a welcoming environment. We are often looking for community sponsors for events in order to create something really special for the community. Businesses can get involved by hosting us for an event, in kind donations, or a monetary donation to our 501c3 nonprofit.”

Local Businesses Boom at Old Town Street Festival

Mon, 19 May 2025 14:07:49 GMT

Leander Chamber of Commerce President Bridget Brandt talks with us about the annual Old Town Street Festival in Leander with a local business focus. The festival is taking place on Saturday, June 7th from 11am to 10pm at 100 N. Brushy St. The 5K check-in begins earlier at 9:30am. Lioness Books will be there all day long with our shelves stocked and ready to celebrate!

Even as Leander’s population continues to soar, local businesses still struggle to gain exposure. Whether that’s due to the wide geographical spread of the city, or the obvious difficulty of growing a business in the early days, the Old Town Street Festival (OTSF) brings an astonishing amount of recognition—and the Leander Chamber of Commerce makes it a point to put local businesses at the forefront.

The OTSF began 11 years ago as a community catalyst idea. “We wanted to do something that would put Leander on the map,” says Bridget Brandt, President of the Leander Chamber of Commerce. “We wanted something that helped small businesses. At that time, and even today, getting awareness in Leander is very tough for small businesses.”

Businesses from all over Texas flock to take part in the OTSF every year, but the Chamber keeps a local focus and gives preference to those from Leander. “We are very intentionally creating local shopping,” says Brandt. “You’ll see a ton of local food vendors, breweries, and wineries when you come to the festival. It’s local vendors that provide the petting zoo, the rides, and local artists do the sidewalk chalk. All of those things are really curated to create a local feel and expose you to things that maybe you didn’t know existed before.”

The importance and value of community events like the OTSF for small businesses is not solely about the money—it truly comes down to awareness. “100% of the proceeds go back to the local businesses for the 5K through the work that the chamber does in our community,” says Brandt. “Last year we put $1.2 million back into the pockets of our local businesses. And that is a conservative number, because not all of the vendors share their sales with us. It is probably more like $2.5. On a bad year—if the weather is bad—we’ll see 10,000 people come. If the weather’s good, we’ll see 20 to 30 thousand people. So even on a bad year, that’s 10,000 new people that didn’t know your business existed before and have now seen it. If even 500 of those people become customers, you have made an incredible change. That’s sort of what [the OTSF] creates and that’s the goal. Awareness in those early stages of your business is so critical to helping you grow.”

At the OTSF, there’s no age limit for generating recognition of your work—kid entrepreneurs are welcomed and encouraged to participate. The Chamber offers free registration and sets up a tent for kids with businesses to sell their products. The only criteria is that it has to be a kid-owned business with their own product and handiwork. “Over the years, probably 30 to 40 different kid businesses come through the festival and grow,” says Brandt. “It’s a great way for them to get experience with actually selling whatever their product is. That ability to interact with customers and create exchanges of conversation and exchange money are really good soft skills that are impossible to learn in any other way but the real world. I love to go to that tent and see all the kids talking to their consumers. It’s a really nice way to help the kids of Leander grow.”

Over 11 years time, the OTSF has expanded exponentially—in both attendance and size. Today, the festival has the 5K, a wide variety of food and beverage vendors, rides, a petting zoo, live music, and more. “It has grown substantially, but it is representative of the growth of Leander,” says Brandt. “Every single thing about the festival is money going back into our local community. It really is the perfect storm of a local event.”

The best way to support the OTSF and the local businesses involved is to simply show up. With no entry fee and free parking at Leander ISD and around Old Town, getting in and out of the festival is accessible and uncomplicated. “Bring your kids, bring your dogs, and come do all of the fun things that make Leander great!”

Top 13 Books By Non-English Authors to Add to Your Library

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 20:49:37 GMT

As we anticipate the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21, it’s the perfect time to reflect on and celebrate the wide array of cultures, identities, and perspectives that shape our world. One meaningful way to engage is through reading—specifically, by exploring stories that originate outside the English-speaking world.

Here are 13 books by non-English authors that deserve a place on your bookshelf.

Fiction: 8 Powerful Works of Imagination and Insight

1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (Portuguese – Brazil)

Originally published in Portuguese in 1988, The Alchemist is a philosophical novel that has since become one of the most widely translated books in history. The story follows Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd who dreams of discovering a treasure hidden in the Egyptian pyramids. Along the way, he encounters a series of characters—a king, a crystal merchant, an Englishman, and an alchemist—each guiding him in the pursuit of his “Personal Legend.”

At its core, the novel emphasizes listening to one’s heart, recognizing opportunity, and finding meaning in the journey as much as the destination. While deceptively simple in style, its spiritual and motivational themes have had lasting resonance across cultures. Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, once a songwriter and theater director, brings his own experience of spiritual awakening to the narrative, offering readers a deeply personal but universally relatable message.

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2. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón (Spanish – Spain)

Published in 2001 as part of The Cemetery of Forgotten Books series, The Shadow of the Wind is a compelling blend of gothic mystery, historical fiction, and literary drama. The novel begins in post–civil war Barcelona, where a young boy, Daniel, discovers a mysterious novel by Julián Carax in a secret library. Fascinated, he sets out to learn more about the author, only to uncover a chilling pattern: someone has been systematically destroying every copy of Carax’s books.

The story gradually unfolds into a tale of lost love, political corruption, and betrayal, mirroring the larger turmoil of mid-20th-century Spain. What makes Zafón’s writing so impactful is his evocative prose and ability to craft atmospheric, character-rich storytelling. Before his passing in 2020, Zafón had become one of the most read Spanish authors in the world, with his work translated into more than 40 languages.

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3. My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante (Italian – Italy)

My Brilliant Friend , first published in 2011, is the inaugural volume of Elena Ferrante’s four-part Neapolitan Novels . The book introduces Elena Greco and Lila Cerullo, two girls growing up in a poor neighborhood on the outskirts of Naples in the 1950s. Through decades of change—from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood—Ferrante explores their evolving friendship against a backdrop of socioeconomic struggle, gender expectations, and political shifts in post-war Italy.

Ferrante, whose true identity remains unknown, has become a literary icon for her unflinching exploration of female psychology and social pressure. Her anonymous status has only amplified her impact, shifting attention toward the work itself and away from the cult of personality. My Brilliant Friend received widespread acclaim for its honesty, emotional intensity, and insight into the intimate yet often conflicted dynamics between women.

For those seeking deeply personal and psychologically layered books by non-English authors, Ferrante’s novel offers a gripping, emotionally raw narrative that feels both intimate and universal.

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4. The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin (Chinese – China)

A groundbreaking entry in the science fiction genre, The Three-Body Problem was first published in Chinese in 2008 and later translated into English by Ken Liu in 2014. The novel begins during the Chinese Cultural Revolution, where a secret military project makes contact with an alien civilization on the brink of collapse. Decades later, scientists on Earth are mysteriously dying, and a virtual reality game hints at a larger, more threatening intergalactic conspiracy.

Liu Cixin, an engineer by training, merges complex physics, philosophical questions, and grand-scale storytelling in ways rarely seen in the genre. His work has brought Chinese science fiction to international prominence, earning him the distinction of being the first Asian author to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel.

What sets The Three-Body Problem apart is its ability to navigate the technical with the emotional, examining what it means to be human when faced with forces far beyond comprehension. Its translation marked a pivotal moment in global literature, proving that speculative fiction from non-English cultures could not only compete with but enrich the genre’s most ambitious narratives.

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5. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez (Spanish – Colombia)

First published in 1967 and widely considered a cornerstone of Latin American literature, One Hundred Years of Solitude chronicles the multi-generational saga of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo. Through lyrical prose and surreal, magical elements, Gabriel García Márquez captures the cyclical nature of history, the loneliness of leadership, and the fragility of memory. Each generation repeats the mistakes of the previous one, blurring the boundaries between reality and myth, the personal and the political.

Márquez, a Nobel Prize-winning author, played a crucial role in popularizing magical realism—a literary style that blends fantastical elements with grounded social and political commentary. His work redefined how stories from Latin America were perceived globally and opened the door to reach wider audiences.

For readers interested in sweeping narratives that challenge and move them, this novel remains a vital work for its exploration of cultural legacy, family, and the illusions of progress.

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6. Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto (Japanese – Japan)

Published in 1988, Kitchen is a quietly powerful novella that follows a young woman named Mikage as she copes with grief following the death of her grandmother. Through the metaphor of the kitchen—a place of comfort, identity, and survival—Banana Yoshimoto explores themes of loss, love, and the unconventional bonds that carry us forward.

Yoshimoto’s writing style is minimalist, emotionally resonant, and refreshingly modern. Her work helped introduce a younger, more introspective voice into contemporary Japanese literature and gained international recognition for its accessibility and emotional honesty. With understated storytelling and rich internal monologue, Kitchen portrays how everyday moments can carry profound emotional weight.

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7. Signs Preceding the End of the World by Yuri Herrera (Spanish – Mexico)

This 2009 novel, translated into English in 2015 by Lisa Dillman, tells the story of Makina, a young woman crossing the U.S.-Mexico border to deliver a message to her brother. But this is no typical migration narrative. Drawing on mythological structure and poetic language, Herrera reimagines the border crossing as a descent into the underworld. Each section of the novel represents a spiritual or symbolic passage, echoing classical epics while rooted in the urgent realities of modern migration.

Yuri Herrera is known for his spare, lyrical prose and ability to compress vast social and political meaning into brief, powerful stories. In Signs Preceding the End of the World , he speaks to displacement, cultural erosion, and survival in a voice that’s both timeless and immediate.

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8. The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov (Russian – Russia)

Written during Stalin’s oppressive regime but published decades later, The Master and Margarita is a biting satirical novel that critiques Soviet bureaucracy, atheism, and literary censorship. The story jumps between two main settings: 1930s Moscow, where the Devil (in the guise of a foreign professor) wreaks havoc, and ancient Jerusalem, where Pontius Pilate confronts his moral failures.

Bulgakov blends fantasy, political allegory, and religious reflection in a work that defies easy classification. While it’s technically a novel, its political subtext and allegorical critique make it deeply rooted in real-world commentary. It’s a literary response to authoritarianism, composed in secret and edited over years as the author struggled with censorship and declining health.

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Non-Fiction: 5 Books That Bridge History, Philosophy, and Social Commentary

9. The Book of Tea by Kakuzō Okakura (Japanese – Japan)

Originally published in 1906, The Book of Tea is a beautifully written essay that uses the Japanese tea ceremony as a lens to explore aesthetics, culture, and philosophy. Although composed in English by Japanese scholar Kakuzō Okakura, the text serves as a bridge between Eastern and Western thought during a time of rapid modernization and cultural shift in Japan.

The book goes beyond the origins of this classic beverage staple—it’s about art, humility, impermanence, and harmony. Okakura discusses how tea culture intersects with architecture, gardening, ceramics, and even politics. His goal was to correct Western misunderstandings about Asian traditions and elevate the subtlety of Japanese art forms in a time when they were often overlooked.

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10. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi (French – Iran)

Persepolis is a groundbreaking graphic memoir that recounts Marjane Satrapi’s coming of age in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. First published in French in 2000 and later translated into numerous languages, the book uses stark black-and-white illustrations to convey deeply personal and political experiences. Through the lens of a young girl, Satrapi reflects on issues of identity, gender, repression, and cultural conflict.

What makes Persepolis so impactful is its ability to make complex historical events accessible without sacrificing nuance. It balances humor, sorrow, and reflection, offering a humanizing perspective on a country often reduced to headlines.

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11. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai (Urdu – Pakistan)

Co-written with Christina Lamb and originally published in 2013, I Am Malala tells the remarkable story of Malala Yousafzai, who was targeted and shot by the Taliban for advocating for girls’ education in Pakistan.

The memoir blends personal history with global political realities. Malala recounts her upbringing in the Swat Valley, her family’s support for education, and her growing activism that eventually garnered international attention.

The book is not only an inspiring personal narrative but also an urgent call for universal education and women’s rights. Malala’s voice is clear, courageous, and deeply principled. Her story encourages readers of all ages to consider the value of education, the cost of silence, and the importance of standing up for what one believes.

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12. Night by Elie Wiesel (French – Romania)

Originally published in French in 1956, Night is Elie Wiesel’s harrowing memoir of surviving the Holocaust. At just fifteen years old, Wiesel was deported with his family to Auschwitz and later Buchenwald. The book chronicles his experiences of suffering, loss, and spiritual desolation, written in a hauntingly spare and restrained prose style.

Wiesel went on to become a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a vocal advocate for remembering atrocities to prevent future genocides. Night is widely regarded as one of the most important works of Holocaust literature, notable for its emotional honesty and unflinching confrontation with horror.

As a foundational work by a non-English author whose voice shaped 20th-century historical memory, Night serves as both a testimony and a warning. Its inclusion in this list emphasizes the role of literature in preserving the dignity of those who endured and in educating future generations.

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13. Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke (German – Austria)

This slender but powerful collection of ten letters was written by Rainer Maria Rilke in the early 1900s in response to a young aspiring poet’s request for feedback. In these deeply philosophical and poetic missives, Rilke explores the nature of creativity, solitude, love, and personal growth. Originally written in German and later translated into many languages, the book has inspired artists, writers, and thinkers for over a century.

Rilke’s reflections go beyond mere writing advice; they serve as meditations on how to live authentically and attentively in a world full of noise. His gentle yet profound counsel encourages readers to embrace uncertainty and introspection—a message that remains strikingly relevant today.

As one of the most reflective and spiritually resonant books by non-English authors, Letters to a Young Poet offers a timeless companion to anyone navigating their inner life. It’s a thoughtful inclusion in this list, highlighting the emotional and intellectual insights that can emerge from cross-cultural literary exchange.

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Start Reading From Non-English Authors Today!

During National Diversity Awareness Month, taking the time to read internationally celebrated authors helps reaffirm the value of linguistic and cultural plurality. And while this list is a starting point, there’s so much more to explore—including these powerful titles for Black History Month .

At Lioness Books, we celebrate diverse voices and stories from around the world, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of titles to inspire and connect.

Stay connected by checking out our events calendar to find out where Lioness Books will pop up next!

In the meantime, browse our selection of audiobooks and titles through the Lioness Books shop .

Spotlight on Local Author Cassidie Salley

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 19:21:26 GMT

Local author Cassidie Salley shares the inspirations for her 2021 fantasy novel, After The Light Died (ATLD) , and gives us a preview of the gothic fantasy book she plans on publishing this year that is set in modern-day suburban Texas. Cassidie will be signing copies of ATLD with Lioness Books at Wildfire Park in Leander on April 26th from 10am-12pm for Independent Bookstore Day.

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself, and telling us about your background?

CS: “My name is Cassidie Salley (I got married since I published haha)! I was born and raised in the Austin area, and have loved books for as long as I can remember. I published my novel in 2021 and have always strived to surround myself with books: whether it’s reading, writing, translating, or exploring bookstores everywhere I go! My first love in books was fantasy, and writing young adult and children’s books is a passion of mine.”

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself, and telling us about your background?

AS: What were the inspirations for your book, After The Light Died?

CS: “After The Light Died was a very personal book for me, as I first began writing it as a journaling exercise. The majority of its characters are based off people in my life, and I incorporated scripture into the beginning of the chapters to show what was on my mind at the time. My favorite book, The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho, is a short book about a boy’s journey to finding treasure. It’s poetic and emotional and was a very big inspiration for me when writing my book.”

AS: What were the inspirations for your book, After The Light Died?

AS: What messages or sentiments do you want readers to take away from your work?

CS: “Hopefully, this book allows you to enjoy it as objectively or subjectively as you want–if all you want is an adventure, or if you want to delve into every detail, you can find something satisfying. To whoever wants to walk away from this book with a message, I want it to be that life is so much sweeter and richer when you let people in.”

AS: What messages or sentiments do you want readers to take away from your work?

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

CS: “My goal is to publish my next book this year! It’s a fun young adult fantasy–much goofier than After The Light Died, but still with a little depth to it that people can sink into . Stay tuned.”

AS: Tell us more about After The Light Died. Do you have any favorite moments from the book—or from writing the book—that you can share with us?

CS: “One of my favorite moments about writing After The Light Died was when I first thought of my favorite character, about halfway through writing the first draft. This character was born out of a throwaway line at the very beginning of the book, but as soon as I started writing them I just couldn’t stop. They were so fascinating and deep and nuanced–that’s the first time I remember being really led by a character. Sometimes writing a character is just about coming up with a personality, but with the really good ones it feels like they’re in your brain, telling you what they will and won’t do. They felt truly alive. That was such a rush to write.”

AS: How would you describe your writing style and the central themes of your work?

CS: “ ATLD is the first time I tried to write a novel in the style of a poem. It felt very lyrical and whimsical when I wrote it. There were certain key phrases and ideas I made into motifs while I wrote, sort of like in children’s books when the author wants you to remember the main idea. After publishing this I think my writing style has gotten a lot more natural and straightforward–I like trying to simplify ideas down so the reading feels natural. Honestly, I’m not sure if I could write ATLD now, it feels like such a great time capsule of who I was when I wrote it.”

AS: Tell us more about the new book you plan on publishing this year. What was the initial inspiration for it?

CS: “My new book is a gothic fantasy set in modern-day suburban Texas. I love magic in modern-day society, and I really wanted to show the mystical side of this state–showing cowboys as the great warriors instead of knights, stuff like that. My first inspiration for it was visiting a town in Switzerland called Bern when I was a teenager. It’s this town that has preserved all the architecture from the Middle Ages in it, right down to the moat. There’s this cathedral inside that was covered in gargoyles and so full of history you could feel it. Yet people were just passing it by without a second glance, selling souvenirs around it. When I visited that town, I thought, if you plopped a castle like this in the middle of my hometown, people would not be acting normal about it. Then my book sort of bloomed around that thought.”

AS: Tell us more about the new book you plan on publishing this year. What was the initial inspiration for it?

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

CS: “Of course, buying books always helps! Events like the one I’ll be at are such a great way to come and support us—posting about them on social media and bringing attention to local authors really makes a difference.”

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

Spotlight on Local Artist Gabriella Burt

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:51:46 GMT

Local artist Gabriella Burt walks us through her creative process of rebinding books, and shares the inspiration, joy, and fulfillment behind her craft. Lioness Books will begin to carry Gabriella’s rebound books in-store on April 12th—the first day of the 2025 Austin Texas Book Trail!

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself, and telling us about your background?

GB: “I’m Gabby, I was born in Key West, Florida but was raised most of my life in Round Rock, Texas. I’m a lifelong book lover, especially drawn to all things fantasy (give me dragons or give me death), but I’ll read just about anything with a good story. I’m 26 and currently live in Leander with my husband and our two German Shepherds. When I’m not buried in a book, I’m probably making one—literally.”

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself, and telling us about your background?

AS: How would you describe the work that you do?

GB: “I take well-loved stories and give them new lives. I take existing paperbacks or hardcovers and transform them into something unique and beautiful, durable, and display-worthy. Think of it as a makeover for your favorite stories. I also bind fan fiction by hand (just for myself—no selling!), and I’m always experimenting with new materials, tools, designs, or techniques just for the fun of it. It’s part art, part craft, and fully a labor of love.”

AS: How would you describe the work that you do?

AS: What inspired you to start rebinding books?

GB: “A couple of years ago, I fell headfirst back into the world of fan fiction. I picked up Manacled by SinLinYu (which, fun fact, is being traditionally published this year!) and realized I needed a physical copy for my shelves. Since it’s illegal to buy or sell fan fiction, the only way to own a copy is to make it yourself—so I did. I had no idea what I was doing, but I gave it a try, and I’ve been hooked ever since. What started as a way to bind stories I loved turned into a full-on obsession with the craft.”

AS: What inspired you to start rebinding books?

AS: What do you find most enjoyable and fulfilling about your art?

GB: “One of the most fulfilling parts of this craft is capturing a story’s essence in a single, physical object. When I finish a piece that weaves in symbols, quotes, or visual cues from a favorite book—and I know what each one means in context—it feels like a secret only fellow readers will truly understand. I didn’t really see myself as artistic or creative before I started binding, but maybe I was just waiting for the right kind of inspiration. I usually read a book thoroughly before deciding to rebind it, so the final design feels true to the story it holds.”

AS: What do you find most enjoyable and fulfilling about your art?

AS: Walk us through your creative process. What all goes into rebinding a book from the initial inspiration to the finished product?

GB: “It usually starts with a book I love or feel particularly inspired by—something with rich characters, powerful visuals, or a vibe that makes my brain go ‘yes, this needs to live on my shelf.’ I typically read (or re-read) the book before I bind it so I can pull in the right symbolism, color palette, or design elements that feel true to the story. Once I’ve got a concept, I prep the text block from an existing paperback or hardcover and begin the process of cutting materials, designing the cover, printing custom endpapers, and binding everything by hand. It’s a mix of measuring, gluing, pressing, and hoping the book gods are on my side. There’s a lot of trial, error, and mid-project swearing involved—but the moment I hold the finished book in my hands and see how it came together? Totally worth it.”

AS: Walk us through your creative process. What all goes into rebinding a book from the initial inspiration to the finished product?

AS: What can people do to support local artists like you?

GB: “Honestly? Share our work, talk about it, and cheer us on—even if you’re not in a place to buy anything. Every like, comment, share, and ‘this reminded me of you’ message helps keep small creators going. If you do want to purchase something, know that you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting hours of work, a lot of trial and error, and someone pouring a whole lot of love into what they make.”

AS: What can people do to support local artists like you?

Spotlight on Local Author S.E. Wheeler

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Local author S.E. Wheeler opens up about the inner workings of her literary work, and shares the sources of inspiration underpinning her latest adult fantasy series. Wheeler will be doing a book signing at our mobile bookstore for the 2025 Austin Texas Book Trail on April 12th from 12pm-2pm at Wildfire Park in Leander.

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself, and telling us about your background?

SW: “Water has always been my element. As a child, I couldn't be kept out of pools and waves and Texas creeks. Visions of mermaids and underwater creatures filled my imagination. In 2015, after my second child was born, I found myself lost in postpartum depression and anxiety, but was able to experience relief from my symptoms when I submerged myself in writing. Writing Alteration became a refuge, and eventually, something I was very proud of and wanted to share. My background and education is primarily in child development, as is my current day job as the Director of a swim program in the Austin area.”

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself, and telling us about your background?

AS: Tell us more about your novel, “Alteration”, and the series as a whole. What was the inspiration for it?

SW: “Alteration is a new adult fantasy (first in series!) about a woman torn between two worlds - one on land and one in sea - and faced with a choice that risks her life. As her discoveries lead to new perspectives, Ondine must choose to remain set on the path designed for her, or choose Alteration. The underlying story is a reflection of my own transformation from a rigid religious upbringing to a more inclusive and open world view.”

AS: Tell us more about your novel, “Alteration”, and the series as a whole. What was the inspiration for it?

AS: Tell us more about your work. How would you describe your writing style, book genre(s), themes, etc.?

SW: “ Alteration is primarily set underwater, so there are a great deal of vivid and visceral descriptions of that world. I enjoy writing engaging dialogue and characters that are complex and curious. I also like my characters to reflect the world I exist in, including all the layers of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and development.”

AS: Tell us more about your work. How would you describe your writing style, book genre(s), themes, etc.?

AS: What messages or sentiments do you want readers to take away from your work?

SW: “ Alteration at its core is about accepting and understanding your authentic self, and learning to let go of ideologies/worldviews that are divisive or harmful to self/others. It also explores cultures built on conditioning children to believe one thing, versus teaching children to authentically and critically engage in the world around them.”

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

SW: “I am currently working on two projects! One is Alignment , the second book in the Alteration Trilogy. It will pick up with Ondine , Cannon , and Waverly roughly a week after the end of Alteration and explore self-forgiveness and trust. Alignment is expected to be available this summer! The second project is titled A Coven of Moderately Depressed Witches and is a cosy fantasy novel that involves seven modern-day mothers stumbling upon a collective power and trying to figure out what to do about it. It will explore themes of female friendship and the struggles of motherhood with a dash of humor and witchy whimsy. There is no timeline yet for this novel.”

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

SW: “Aside from purchasing a book, social media follows and kind, honest reviews are the most impactful for me personally!”

7 Must-Read Books from Women Authors Who Used Male Pseudonyms

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:53:52 GMT

The literary world has long been a battlefield for women seeking recognition. Before the 19th century, publishing under a woman’s name was not just discouraged —it was nearly impossible. Women were barred from universities, denied access to formal education, and often silenced in intellectual spaces.

This struggle is both vividly and humorously portrayed in modern takes on literary history, like the series Dickinson . While the show takes creative liberties in its depiction of the titular poet, it captures the frustration and obstacles women faced in making their voices heard.

In one scene, Emily Dickinson—portrayed by Hailee Steinfeld—reveals that one of her poems was published anonymously in a local paper. Her father erupts in anger, saying her actions could tarnish the reputation he had carefully built for the family

Though fictionalized, this moment reflects a reality that persisted even into the 1990s. For centuries, women had to fight for a place in the literary world, often resorting to male pseudonyms or publishing anonymously just to be taken seriously.

Many refused to let these barriers define them, using whatever means necessary to ensure their voices were heard. Let’s take a closer look at the women who defied the odds and shaped modern literature as we know it today.

1. To Kill A Mockingbird - Nelle Harper Lee

(Published under the name Harper Lee)

Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird is considered to be one of the most enduring works of American literature that weaved together themes of racial injustice, morality, and human empathy.

Set in the backdrop of the Deep South in the 1930s, the story follows Scout Finch, a young girl whose father, Atticus Finch, defends a black man falsely accused of assaulting a white woman. Through Scout’s eyes, we witness the persistence of moral courage in the face of prejudice, and a deeply flawed legal system.

Lee, born Nelle Harper Lee, wrote the novel as a reflection of the racial tensions she herself observed growing up in Monroeville, Alabama. Despite its serious themes, To Kill a Mockingbird carries with it a warmth and humor that makes its message all the more palatable.

1. To Kill A Mockingbird - Nelle Harper Lee

(Published under the name Harper Lee)

Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird is considered to be one of the most enduring works of American literature that weaved together themes of racial injustice, morality, and human empathy.

2. Middlemarch - Mary Ann Evans

(Published under the name George Eliot)

Middlemarch follows the story of Dorothea Brooke, a bright and idealistic woman who, hoping to make a meaningful impact on the world, marries the much older scholar Edward Casaubon. She believes this union will allow her to engage in his intellectual work, only to find herself reduced to little more than a secretary, stifled and unfulfilled.

Another intertwined narrative follows Tertius Lydgate, an ambitious doctor who marries Rosamond Vincy, a woman who fits his ideal of femininity—docile, refined, and polished. However, Rosamond assumes Lydgate is wealthy and sees their marriage as a step up in society, only to be disappointed when financial struggles ensue.

In more ways than one, Middlemarch reflects the wildly unexplored, yet stark realities of the time—women marrying older, wealthier men, hoping for the freedom to pursue their own aspirations, only to find themselves trapped by societal expectations.

Eliot’s commitment to realistic fiction was groundbreaking, as novels of the era often leaned toward romance or idealized portrayals of life. Instead, she delivered a nuanced, psychological exploration of marriage, ambition, and social constraints that made Middlemarch a literary landmark.

3. Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë

(Published under the name Ellis Bell)

Emily Brontë, writing as Ellis Bell crafted this controversially passionate tale of love, revenge, and obsession set against the untamed Yorkshire moors.

The novel follows Heathcliff, an orphan taken in by the wealthy Earnshaw family, and his intense, all-consuming love for Catherine Earnshaw. When Catherine chooses to marry Edgar Linton for status and security, Heathcliff is consumed by bitterness setting off a cycle of vengeance that spans generations.

Wuthering Heights explored how love can become too all-consuming. Its emotional landscapes and morally ambiguous characters no doubt shocked Victorian readers who were unaccustomed to having raw, intense human emotions vividly depicted in print.

Brontë published under a male pseudonym to avoid the biases against women writers, allowing her fiercely original work to be judged on its own merit.

3. Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë

(Published under the name Ellis Bell)

Emily Brontë, writing as Ellis Bell crafted this controversially passionate tale of love, revenge, and obsession set against the untamed Yorkshire moors.

Brontë published under a male pseudonym to avoid the biases against women writers, allowing her fiercely original work to be judged on its own merit.

4. The Harry Potter Series - Joanne Rowling

(Published under the name J.K. Rowling)

Joanne Rowling, better known as J.K. Rowling created Harry Potter which is considered to have redefined modern fantasy literature. What set her writing apart was the intricate world-building, with fictional locations like Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and the wizarding world as a whole feeling as real as any historical setting.

Despite the series popularly marketed as a novel for kids and young adults, the series tackled deeply mature themes, such as the fight against oppression, propaganda, and warning against the dangers of unchecked power.

Rowling chose to publish under J.K. Rowling rather than Joanne Rowling, as her publisher feared a female author’s name might deter young male readers. Regardless, Harry Potter became a literary phenomenon and sparked a fierce following that still endures today.

5. Mary Poppins - Pamela Lyndon Travers / Helen Lyndon Goff

(Published under the name P.L. Travers)

You may know Mary Poppins as the Disney classic, but behind it was the very private P.L. Travers. Born Helen Lyndon Goff, she initially and briefly pursued acting under the name Pamela Lyndon Travers.

After her father’s death, Goff was thrust into the role of breadwinner at a young age, a responsibility that shaped much of her life. Seeking independence and a fresh start, she married a journalist and moved to England, where she reinvented herself as Pamela Lyndon Travers.

It was under this identity that she pursued writing, and in 1934, she introduced the world to Mary Poppins , a strict, enigmatic nanny, far from the warm Disney portrayal, who led the Banks children on surreal and magical adventures.

Over time, the books faced scrutiny for outdated racial depictions, leading to revisions. Yet Travers’ original vision remained intact. Her own transformation reflected the struggles of women carving out space in a world that refused to make room. Her identity, much like Mary Poppins herself, was a mix of authority, mystery, and quiet defiance.

Check out the full list of recommendations here .

Audiobooks here .

5. Mary Poppins - Pamela Lyndon Travers / Helen Lyndon Goff

(Published under the name P.L. Travers)

6. Indiana - Amantine Aurore Dupin

(Published under the name George Sand)

Before she became George Sand, she was Amantine Aurore Dupin. Dupin was mainly raised by her grandmother for most of her childhood, whose home set the backdrop of many of the novels she wrote.

Like many women in France and in other parts of the world during her time, she was expected to conform to rigid expectations of womanhood. Instead she defied conventions, by not just leaving her husband, but dressing as a man to gain access to male-dominated intellectual circles and live on her own as a writer.

Her first published novel, Indiana (1832) , set the tone for her literary career. The novel follows Indiana, a young noblewoman trapped in an oppressive marriage to an older, controlling husband. Desperate for freedom and longing for passion, she is drawn to Raymon, a charming but ultimately self-serving man who exploits her vulnerability.

Through Indiana’s struggles, Sand exposed the suffocating constraints placed on women, challenging the idea that marriage was their only destiny.

At a time when women writing about female desire and autonomy risked backlash—or outright condemnation—publishing as George Sand gave her the freedom to challenge the very society that sought to silence her.

7. The History of Sir Richard Calmady - Mary St. Leger Kingsley

(Published under the name Lucas Malet)

Before she became known as Lucas Malet, she was Mary St. Leger Kingsley, the daughter of Charles Kingsley, a prominent clergyman. Despite being born into an intellectual family with two of her uncles being writers, her path to literature was anything but direct.

Marriage to her father’s colleague, William Harrison, a vicar, confined her to domestic and clerical duties, forcing her to set aside her artistic ambitions. Only after they separated did she fully commit to writing, adopting the pen name Lucas Malet to establish herself independently.

Her most notable novel, The History of Sir Richard Calmady (1901) , follows a nobleman whose life is shaped by a severe physical deformity. The character was inspired by Arthur MacMurrough Kavanagh, an Irish aristocrat born without fully formed limbs. Despite his condition, Kavanagh learned to navigate life just as capably as anyone else—riding horses, hunting, and mastering everyday tasks in ways few thought possible, even going on to serve in Parliament.

Despite her literary achievements, Kingsley died in poverty. Several factors contributed to her decline, but a possible reason, as noted by her sole biographer, Patricia Lorimer Lundberg , was the critical reception of her later work. As her writing progressed beyond Victorian conventions, incorporating discussions of gender and sexuality that challenged traditional norms, critics became increasingly dismissive.

Rather than embracing her complex and unconventional themes, they sought to place her back into a more familiar literary mold—one that she had long outgrown.

Check out the full list of recommendations here .

Audiobooks here .

7. The History of Sir Richard Calmady - Mary St. Leger Kingsley

(Published under the name Lucas Malet)

Rather than embracing her complex and unconventional themes, they sought to place her back into a more familiar literary mold—one that she had long outgrown.

Tips for Shaking Up Your Book Club’s Routine

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:34:37 GMT

Book clubs are all the rage recently! As they continue to grow in popularity, groups are bound to hit a lull as time goes on. Feel like your book club’s routine is getting old and want to try something new? Check out these tips for changing it up!

1. Find local authors and attend author events

Lioness Books is a proud supporter of all things local and independent! We encourage readers to find books written by authors in their communities and include them in their book clubs. Furthermore, attending author events is a great way to open up your book club to new environments and socialize with other readers.

2. Have a (local and independent) free-for-all

In this instance, everyone shops at a local independent bookstore and selects their own book! Rather than always reading the same novel, this shakes things up by allowing everyone to explore a different book and discuss their insights and opinions. This also makes room for diverse literature and possible recommendations.

3. Random book selections

Have everyone pick a book and draw a title out of a hat, or use a random book generator to change up the way your book club selects your next read! If your club is running out of ideas and feeling adventurous, this is worth a try!

4. Perform table readings

Take turns reading aloud pages of your book at meetings! This is a great way to enhance participation and highlight particular parts of your book. You may even use accents or change your pitch and tone of voice to represent different characters—take creative, fun, and dramatic liberties!

5. Book-themed food and drinks

Get in tune with all things food and drink related to your book’s setting and characters and bring them to life at your next meeting! For example, if your book is set in New York, consider bringing some bagels or pizza to share as you discuss. This is a really fun way to connect on another level with your literature and friends!

6. Change up your environment

Continually meeting in the same location to discuss your books can get old! Try venturing out to a local coffee shop, park, or bookstore. Alternatively, create a rotating schedule of each of your book club member’s houses for your meetings! You never know—you might discover a hidden gem or your next favorite spot!

Women Authors of Banned Books

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 12:00:00 GMT

March is Women’s History Month and Lioness Books would like to take the time to honor female authors who have written banned or challenged books. These books are available as audiobooks and hardcopy books to be purchased on our website. We encourage you, as readers, to open your minds to these stories and fight against ongoing book bans.

Margaret Atwood

The Handmaid’s Tale

In Margaret Atwood’s dystopian future, environmental disasters and declining birthrates have led to a Second American Civil War. The result is the rise of the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian regime that enforces rigid social roles and enslaves the few remaining fertile women. Offred is one of these, a Handmaid bound to produce children for one of Gilead’s commanders. Deprived of her husband, her child, her freedom, and even her own name, Offred clings to her memories and her will to survive. At once a scathing satire, an ominous warning, and a tour de force of narrative suspense, The Handmaid’s Tale is a modern classic.

More Books by Margaret Atwood

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Margaret Atwood

The Handmaid’s Tale

More Books by Margaret Atwood

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Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle in Time

Late one night, three otherworldly creatures appear and sweep Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe away on a mission to save Mr. Murray, who has gone missing while doing top-secret work for the government. They travel via tesseract--a wrinkle that transports one across space and time--to the planet Camazotz, where Mr. Murray is being held captive. There they discover a dark force that threatens not only Mr. Murray but the safety of the whole universe.

A Wrinkle in Time is the first book in Madeleine L’Engle’s Time Quintet.

More Books by Madeleine L’Engle

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Maya Angelou

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

Here is a book as joyous and painful, as mysterious and memorable, as childhood itself. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings captures the longing of lonely children, the brute insult of bigotry, and the wonder of words that can make the world right. Maya Angelou’s debut memoir is a modern American classic beloved worldwide.

Sent by their mother to live with their devout, self-sufficient grandmother in a small Southern town, Maya and her brother, Bailey, endure the ache of abandonment and the prejudice of the local “powhitetrash.” At eight years old and back at her mother’s side in St. Louis, Maya is attacked by a man many times her age—and has to live with the consequences for a lifetime. Years later, in San Francisco, Maya learns that love for herself, the kindness of others, her own strong spirit, and the ideas of great authors (“I met and fell in love with William Shakespeare”) will allow her to be free instead of imprisoned.

Poetic and powerful, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.

More Books by Maya Angelou

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Maya Angelou

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

Poetic and powerful, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.

More Books by Maya Angelou

Purchase I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

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Toni Morrison

Beloved

Sethe was born a slave and escaped to Ohio, but eighteen years later she is still not free. Sethe has too many memories of Sweet Home, the beautiful farm where so many hideous things happened. And Sethe’s new home is haunted by the ghost of her baby, who died nameless and whose tombstone is engraved with a single word: Beloved.

More Books by Toni Morrison

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Alice Sebold

The Lovely Bones

"My name was Salmon, like the fish; first name, Susie. I was fourteen when I was murdered on December 6, 1973."

So begins the story of Susie Salmon, who is adjusting to her new home in heaven, a place that is not at all what she expected, even as she is watching life on earth continue without her -- her friends trading rumors about her disappearance, her killer trying to cover his tracks, her grief-stricken family unraveling. Out of unspeakable tragedy and loss, The Lovely Bones succeeds, miraculously, in building a tale filled with hope, humor, suspense, even joy.

More Books by Alice Sebold

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Check out the full list of recommendations here .

Audiobooks here .

Alice Sebold

The Lovely Bones

"My name was Salmon, like the fish; first name, Susie. I was fourteen when I was murdered on December 6, 1973."

More Books by Alice Sebold

Purchase The Lovely Bones

Purchase Audiobook

Check out the full list of recommendations here .

Audiobooks here .

Book Drive for Kids

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:11:45 GMT

Introduce yourself. Tell us about your background.

My name is Brooke. I am a stay-at-home mom who loves books. I graduated from Baylor University and worked in the government and nonprofit world prior to having children. I volunteered a lot growing up with my mother as a part of the National Charity League in Houston. I am excited that I get to combine my love for reading with my love of helping others.

Tell us more about your non-profit. What was the inspiration for it initially?

Book Drive for Kids was founded in the Dallas area by two moms, Michelle and Nicol in 2017. They realized many students in low-income families had few books to read at home. In response, they organized book drives at local schools, churches and with community groups and gave away the books at free book fairs in the DFW metroplex. They have gifted more than 100,000 books in their community.

I volunteered with the Dallas Chapter back when I lived in Dallas and enjoyed it. In the Spring of 2021, I started the Austin Chapter.

How has it grown since its inception? What successes have you experienced?

Since many charter schools in the Austin area do not have room for a school library, the need for books at these schools is great and we began serving those schools first. In addition to serving Title 1 charter schools, we also serve public schools in Del Valle ISD and Round Rock ISD. I love that we give students a choice. They get to pick out which book they want to read and as a result are more likely to read it!

Since 2021, Book Drive for Kids Austin has gifted almost 34,000 books to children/school libraries in the Austin area.

To date, we have held 26 books fairs at Title 1 schools and given away 17,300 new books to 12,310 students in the Austin Area. We currently have a waitlist of several public schools in Del Valle ISD that would like a free book fair. (Schools served include Del Valle & Round Rock ISD, Austin Achieve, KIPP public schools, IDEA public schools, Wayside schools and Cedars International Academy).

Book Drive for Kids also serves children in foster care by partnering with local nonprofits and holding free book fairs at their events. To date, we have given away 3,222 books to 2,010 children in foster care .

What are the needs you currently have and how can people support you?

Currently, we need monetary donations to buy more books. Cash donations go further than a gift off our wish list since we can buy books in bulk and at a significant discount avoiding shipping fees and sales tax. You can donate on our website here .

What are some ways people can get involved if they are interested?

We always need volunteers to help our book fairs run smoothly. Our free book fairs are during the school day from 8 am – 2 pm with volunteers serving a 3 hour shift. We also need volunteers during the weekends in the summer. Click here to fill out our volunteer form.

Support the ROAR Campaign

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 19:21:50 GMT

Tell us about the ROAR4Libraries Campaign. How did it start? What are the campaign's goals?

The R.O.A.R. - Read, Organize, Advocate, Rally Campaign was developed by the CommCats, a team of six Texas State University students (Saliyah M. Parker, Andrea Estela Pabon, Marrah Fuentes, D’Aaron Castle, and Jasmine Lozoya) competing in the national 2025 PRSSA Bateman Competition. The campaign was formed to build support and awareness of the political action committee, EveryLibrary, and the need for library advocacy.

The goals of our campaign are:

To inform and inspire new audiences for EveryLibrary by creating informational content and sharing it with local communities.
To diversify EveryLibrary’s audience of engaged library activists by identifying library champions who have signed our pledge of commitment to protecting and supporting libraries, ensuring their presence for future generations.
To demonstrate new channels and pathways for audience engagement by implementing social media strategy and best practices to develop a brand across multiple platforms focused on sharing information and connecting with the community.

What are some of the threats local libraries are facing?

Through our research, we have found that libraries serve as a central hub for their communities, providing essential resources and programs for everyone. However, according to EveryLibrary , they are faced with navigating through censorship attacks, budget and funding cuts, removal of resources, and legislation that could impede their ability to continue serving the community and remove books from their shelves. Our libraries need our support — they need library champions willing to protect them and ensure they remain a part of the community for generations to come.

What are some ways people can show support for their local libraries?

Everyone can be a library champion and support their local library! We have uncovered just how easy it can be to get involved and take action to support libraries and are happy to share.

Here are a few simple ways:

[R] ead - stay informed about the need for library advocacy and the issues your local library may be facing by seeking out information from a trusted source, like EveryLibrary.
[O] rganize - connect with other library champions in your community by joining or forming groups to discuss and organize your support efforts.
[A] dvocate - stand up for your local library by taking an action (i.e. sign a pledge of your support, write a local or state legislator, donate to library advocacy initiatives, etc.) and remember, all actions are helpful.
[R] ally - gather with your community, and others, to use your voices to R.O.A.R. for libraries by spreading the word and being ready to defend your local library in its time of need.

How can people get involved in the campaign?

We welcome everyone to join us as we R.O.A.R. 4 Libraries!

Here’s how you can get involved:

Sign Our Pledge to R.O.A.R. 4 Libraries - English , Español
Visit Our Website - roar4libraries.com
Follow Our Channels - linktr.ee/roar4libraries
Join Us at an Event:
2/22 - R.O.A.R. at the San Antonio African American Book Festival
2/28 - Happy HouROAR at the Round Rock Public Library

Top 8 Books to Celebrate Black History Month This 2025

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 17:25:36 GMT

Key Takeaways

Black History Month is a Time for Reflection and Learning – Reading books by Black authors helps us engage with history, culture, and identity while honoring Black voices.
Books Offer a Powerful Way to Celebrate – Literature provides insight into the struggles, triumphs, and everyday experiences of Black individuals, deepening our understanding of their contributions.
LibroFM Supports Local Bookstores – Audiobook lovers can explore Black-authored works through LibroFM, a platform that helps independent bookstores thrive.
Books that Re-imagine Black History – Titles like Good Dirt, I Am Nobody's Slave, and Another Country challenge traditional narratives and offer fresh perspectives on Black history and identity.
Classic and Contemporary Stories Matter – Works like The Warmth of Other Suns and Homegoing bridge past and present, showing the impact of history on today’s world.

As Black History Month unfolds, it's an opportune moment to delve into literature that honors the richness of Black experiences, histories, and voices. Their stories offer unique perspectives, insights, and challenges that can broaden your understanding of the world and your place in it. At Lioness Books, we believe in the transformative power of stories to educate, inspire, and foster understanding.

By engaging with these narratives, you'll not only discover new worlds but also gain a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling to connect us all. This February, we've curated a selection of compelling books that offer diverse perspectives on Black life and history.

Reading to Celebrate Black History

Engaging with literature during Black History Month allows us to reflect on the past, understand the present, and envision a more inclusive future. Through these narratives, we gain insights into the struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives of Black individuals and communities. Each book on our list has been chosen for its unique contribution to the ongoing conversation about race, identity, and resilience.

LibroFM: Book Choices for Black History Month

For those who enjoy audiobooks, LibroFM offers an excellent platform to access a wide range of titles while supporting local bookstores. This month, consider exploring their curated selections that highlight Black authors and stories, providing an immersive listening experience that brings these powerful narratives to life. Check out some of our favorites

1. The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

" The Fire Next Time " is a powerful and touching book by James Baldwin, originally published in 1963. It consists of two essays that delve into the complex dynamics of race in America. "The Fire Next Time" is a timeless work that continues to resonate with readers today.

Baldwin's eloquent prose and unflinching honesty make it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of race in America. This non-fiction book for Black History is a must read.

2. Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

" Parable of the Sower " is one of the best fiction books for Black History. This is the first book in Octavia Butler's dystopian "Earthseed" series. Set in a near-future California ravaged by climate change, economic collapse, and social breakdown, it tells the story of Lauren Olamina, a young woman with hyperempathy, a condition that allows her to feel the emotions of those around her.

As society crumbles, Lauren's unique ability and her burgeoning belief system, Earthseed, which posits that "God is Change," become her tools for survival and the foundation for a new community.

The novel explores themes of hope, resilience, community-building, and the power of belief in the face of overwhelming adversity. It's a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of social inequality, environmental disaster, and the potential for human adaptation and transformation.

3. If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin

" If Beale Street Could Talk " is a powerful and moving novel by James Baldwin, set in 1970s Harlem. It tells the story of Tish Rivers, a young Black woman who is deeply in love with Fonny Hunt, a talented sculptor. Their lives are shattered when Fonny is falsely accused of rape.

As Tish desperately tries to clear his name while also carrying their unborn child, the novel explores themes of love, family, injustice, and the systemic racism faced by Black communities. Baldwin's masterful prose captures the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities of a society riddled with prejudice.

Books that Re-imagine Black History

1. Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson

In " Good Dirt , " Charmaine Wilkerson, acclaimed author of Black Cake, introduces us to Ebby Freeman, a woman piecing together her family's past following a childhood tragedy. The novel delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the often-overlooked contributions of Black seamen and potters.

Wilkerson's storytelling weaves historical elements with personal narratives, offering a profound exploration of heritage and healing. What a great fiction book for Black History.

2. I Am Nobody's Slave by Lee Hawkins

Journalist Lee Hawkins presents a riveting memoir that examines his family's legacy of post-enslavement trauma and resilience. Drawing from his experience as a 2022 Pulitzer Prize finalist and former Wall Street Journal writer, Hawkins provides a soulful and shocking narrative that blends personal history with broader societal insights. This book is a testament to the enduring impact of systemic racism and the strength required to overcome it.

3. Another Country by James Baldwin

James Baldwin's 1962 novel remains a seminal work that explores complex themes of race, sexuality, and identity. Set in Greenwich Village, Harlem, and France, the story follows a diverse group of friends as they navigate love, betrayal, and societal expectations. Baldwin's narrative challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and remains as relevant today as it was upon its release.

4. The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson

Isabel Wilkerson's epic historical study chronicles the Great Migration , during which millions of Black Americans fled the South for northern and western cities. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Wilkerson traces the journeys of three individuals, offering a nuanced understanding of this pivotal period in American history. Readers find this non-fiction book for Black History Month a go to.

5. Born in Blackness: Africa, Africans, and the Making of the Modern World, 1471 to the Second World War by Howard W. French

" Born in Blackness " offers a groundbreaking and essential reframing of world history. It challenges the traditional Eurocentric narrative by placing Africa and Africans at the very center of the story of modernity's creation.

" Born in Blackness " is a sweeping historical narrative that challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of the world's past and its present. It's a vital contribution to our understanding of global history and the enduring legacy of colonialism.

This Black History Month, we encourage you to immerse yourself in these powerful narratives that reimagine and illuminate Black history. Each of these fiction and non-fiction books for Black History Month offers a unique lens through which to understand the complexities of the Black experience.

At Lioness Books , we're committed to celebrating and amplifying diverse voices, not just in February, but throughout the year. Check out our website to browse our online bookshelves or to see where our mobile book trailer will be! Happy reading!

FAQs

Why is Black History Month celebrated in February?

It coincides with the birthdays of two influential figures: February is the birth month of both Abraham Lincoln (February 12th) and Frederick Douglass (February 14th). Lincoln, as the president who issued the Emancipation Proclamation, and Douglass, a formerly enslaved abolitionist, orator, and writer, both played significant roles in the fight for freedom and equality.
It builds on a pre-existing tradition: Black communities had already been celebrating Lincoln's and Douglass's birthdays for years before the establishment of Black History Month. Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Negro History Week (the precursor to Black History Month), chose February to align with these existing celebrations and amplify their impact.
It was a strategic choice: Woodson's decision to focus on these figures and their connection to Black history aimed to challenge the prevailing narratives and highlight the contributions of Black Americans to the nation's story.

What are some interesting facts about Black History Month?

It started as a week-long celebration: In 1926, Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week to dedicate a specific time to learning about and celebrating Black history.
It was expanded to a month: Due to the growing recognition of the importance of Black history, the celebration was expanded to a full month in 1976.
It has a different theme each year: The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) selects a theme for each Black History Month to provide a specific focus for the celebrations and discussions.
It's celebrated beyond the United States: While Black History Month originated in the US, it has also been adopted in other countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, though they may celebrate it at different times of the year.
It's a time for reflection and education: Black History Month serves as an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of Black individuals and communities, as well as to educate ourselves about the rich and diverse history and culture of Black people.

What countries celebrate Black History Month in February?

Black History Month is officially celebrated in February in the United States and Canada. The United Kingdom celebrates Black History Month in October.

Spotlight on Austinite, Julio Lucero, author of Abuelita, I Am Your Grandson

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 12:00:00 GMT

SA: Can you start by telling us about yourself and your background?

JL: My name is Julio Lucero. For the longest time, I worked in a restaurant my family owned here in Austin, Julio’s Café. If you’re not familiar, the restaurant is located in Hyde Park, just north of the University of Texas. I consider myself both a second-gen immigrant and an Austinite. Like other folks who have lived here for a long time, I am still proud to say that I’m from here. As much as the city has changed, I still adore Austin, to the point that everytime I contemplate leaving, I simply can’t.

SA: Tell us more about the inspiration for your book, Abuelita, I Am Your Grandson.

JL: The inspiration for my book came mostly by accident. My mother and I worked together in the restaurant for many years. One day, after a rough spell, my mother confesses to me that she was ready to hang her apron and sell the business. Her words were heavy.

I began journaling about work. I needed to speak, but for no one to hear. A cathartic process, really.

After about two / three years of documenting my experience, I noticed that if I combined certain elements together, I would have wonderful pieces. I wrote about grackles and catholic prayer cards and caldo and big scary dogs, everything! In the end, after five-ish years of writing, I had over fifty pieces, enough for a book.

SA: Tell us more about the inspiration for your book, Abuelita, I Am Your Grandson.

I began journaling about work. I needed to speak, but for no one to hear. A cathartic process, really.

SA: Tell us more about the inspiration for your book, Abuelita, I Am Your Grandson.

I began journaling about work. I needed to speak, but for no one to hear. A cathartic process, really.

SA: Do you have a favorite moment from the book you can share with us? Why is it meaningful to you?

JL: Gosh, it’s hard to single out a moment. One thing about the book that I’m particularly fond of are the individuals I worked with. Most of them are immigrants. Hands down, some of the best teachers I’ve ever had.

SA: What feelings or inspiration do you want to cultivate for your readers?

JL: If I could cultivate one thing into readers, it would be how to get small. How to see details. Those tiny, nearly insignificant instances are the magic of life. Listen, pay attention. It’s in the mundane, in the monotonous, magic is everywhere.

SA: What feelings or inspiration do you want to cultivate for your readers?

SA: What are some ways customers can support local authors like you?

JL: Supporting the local economy, authors and businesses included, is a challenge. Asking for patronage or financial support is often beyond others’ means. However, if there is a local restaurant, or business, or author you adore, talk about them. Share it with friends, make a post. Write a sincere review. Tell the world why you like what you like.

To order Julio’s book, click the link below:

https://bookshop.org/p/books/abuelita-i-am-your-grandson-julio-a-lucero/21725062?ean=9798990602205

SA: What are some ways customers can support local authors like you?

To order Julio’s book, click the link below:

https://bookshop.org/p/books/abuelita-i-am-your-grandson-julio-a-lucero/21725062?ean=9798990602205

The Literature of Love in All Its Forms: Book Recommendations for February

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 12:00:00 GMT

With all the focus on a one-dimensional definition of love this month, it can be beneficial to expand our ideas of what constitutes love for all - ourselves, our communities, even our environment. Reading has always been an act of resistance, and the commercialism of Valentine's Day attempts to define even the stories we choose to consume that narrate what love really is to each person. Challenge your perspective with diverse reads in different genres, and define love on your own terms and outside of solely romantic ideals.

We Were Once a Family: A Story of Love, Death, and Child Removal in America

Roxanna Asgarian

Nonfiction

The shocking, deeply reported story of a murder-suicide that claimed the lives of six children--and a searing indictment of the American foster care system.

On March 26, 2018, rescue workers discovered a crumpled SUV and the bodies of two women and multiple children at the bottom of a cliff along the Pacific Coast Highway. Investigators soon concluded that the crash was a murder-suicide, but there was more to the story: Jennifer and Sarah Hart, it turned out, were a white married couple who had adopted six Black children from two different Texas families in 2006 and 2008. Behind the family's loving facade was an alleged pattern of abuse and neglect that had been ignored as the couple withdrew the children from school and moved west. It soon became apparent that the State of Texas knew all too little about the two individuals to whom it had given custody of six children.

Immersive journalism of the highest order, Roxanna Asgarian's We Were Once a Family is a revelation of precarious lives; it is also a shattering exposé of the foster care and adoption systems that produced this tragedy. As a journalist in Houston, Asgarian sought out the children's birth families and put them at the center of the story. We follow the lives of the Harts' adopted children and their birth parents, and the machinations of the state agency that sent the children far away. Asgarian's reporting uncovers persistent racial biases and corruption as young people of color are separated from birth parents without proper cause. The result is a riveting narrative and a deeply reported indictment of a system that continues to fail America's most vulnerable children while upending the lives of their families.

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Falling Back in Love with Being Human: Letters to Lost Souls

Kai Cheng Thom

Poetry

What happens when we imagine loving the people--and the parts of ourselves--that we do not believe are worthy of love?

Kai Cheng Thom grew up a Chinese Canadian transgender girl in a hostile world. As an activist, psychotherapist, conflict mediator, and spiritual healer, she's always pursued the same deeply personal mission: to embrace the revolutionary belief that every human being, no matter how hateful or horrible, is intrinsically sacred.

But then Kai Cheng found herself in a crisis of faith, overwhelmed by the viciousness with which people treated one another, and barely clinging to the values and ideals she'd built her life around: justice, hope, love, and healing. Rather than succumb to despair and cynicism, she gathered all her rage and grief and took one last leap of faith: she wrote.

Falling Back in Love with Being Human: Letters to Lost Souls

Kai Cheng Thom

Poetry

What happens when we imagine loving the people--and the parts of ourselves--that we do not believe are worthy of love?

Whether prayers or spells or poems--and whether there's a difference--she wrote to affirm the outcasts and runaways she calls her kin. She wrote to flawed but nonetheless lovable men, to people with good intentions who harm their own, to racists and transphobes seemingly beyond saving. What emerged was a blueprint for falling back in love with being human.

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All About Love

Bell Hooks

Nonfiction

A New York Times bestseller and enduring classic, All About Love is the acclaimed first volume in feminist icon bell hooks' "Love Song to the Nation" trilogy. All About Love reveals what causes a polarized society, and how to heal the divisions that cause suffering. Here is the truth about love, and inspiration to help us instill caring, compassion, and strength in our homes, schools, and workplaces.

"The word 'love' is most often defined as a noun, yet we would all love better if we used it as a verb," writes bell hooks as she comes out fighting and on fire in All About Love. Here, at her most provocative and intensely personal, renowned scholar, cultural critic and feminist bell hooks offers a proactive new ethic for a society bereft with lovelessness--not the lack of romance, but the lack of care, compassion, and unity. People are divided, she declares, by society's failure to provide a model for learning to love.

As bell hooks uses her incisive mind to explore the question "What is love?" her answers strike at both the mind and heart. Razing the cultural paradigm that the ideal love is infused with sex and desire, she provides a new path to love that is sacred, redemptive, and healing for individuals and for a nation. The Utne Reader declared bell hooks one of the "100 Visionaries Who Can Change Your Life." All About Love is a powerful, timely affirmation of just how profoundly her revelations can change hearts and minds for the better.

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Love Is a Revolution

Renée Watson

YA Fiction

When Nala Robertson reluctantly agrees to attend an open mic night for her cousin-sister-friend Imani's birthday, she finds herself falling in instant love with Tye Brown, the MC. He's perfect, except . . . Tye is an activist and is spending his summer putting on events for the community when Nala would rather spend hers watching movies and trying out the new flavors at the local creamery. But to impress Tye, Nala tells a few tiny lies to have enough in common with him. As they spend more time together, sharing more of themselves, some of those lies get harder to keep up. As Nala falls deeper into love and into keeping up her lies, she'll learn all the ways love is hard, and how self-love is revolutionary.

In Love Is a Revolution , the ultimate love story is not only about romance but about how to show radical love to the people in your life, including to yourself.

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Love Is a Revolution

Renée Watson

YA Fiction

In Love Is a Revolution , the ultimate love story is not only about romance but about how to show radical love to the people in your life, including to yourself.

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Love Has No Skin Tone: A Lesson About Social Justice

Michol M. Whitney (Author), Kayla Hargrove (Illustrator)

Children’s (Ages 6 -12)

In May of 2020, Nova is excited to go grocery shopping with her family. Little did she know, due to civil unrest, rioters damaged the stores where she usually shops. Her family drives to a store in a beautiful neighborhood far from where they live. As they arrive at the grocery store, the family is confronted by an angry man who does not want them there. The man's despicable behavior traumatizes Nova, and she wants to go back to her neighborhood.

This racist experience allowed Nova's parents to help her recognize and confront racism. Her parents have an open and honest discussion with her about diversity, inclusivity, and discrimination. Nova learns that love has no skin tone and that it is better to treat everyone with kindness and respect.

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Check out the full list of recommendations here .

Audiobooks here

Check out the full list of recommendations here .

Audiobooks here .

Why Used Books Are Worth Adding To Your Shelf

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 17:08:06 GMT

Key Takeaways

Books Inspire and Connect
Reading sparks imagination and broadens perspectives.
Used books carry extra meaning, having touched other lives before yours.
Why Choose Used Books
They’re budget-friendly and great for building a library.
Buying used books helps the environment by reducing waste.
Pre-loved books often come with unique, personal touches.
Support Local and Independent Sellers
Shopping at independent bookstores helps small businesses.
Local shops offer unique finds and create a sense of community.
Buying used books supports a sustainable, thriving book culture.

There’s a special kind of magic in a used book . From its slightly worn edges to the faint scent of aged paper, every book carries a story beyond the one printed on its pages—a story of where it’s been and whose hands have held it. While the allure of crisp, new editions can’t be denied, used books offer something uniquely enriching: character, history, and the chance to contribute to a more sustainable, community-centered literary ecosystem. In this blog, we’ll explore why adding used books to your collection is a meaningful way to deepen your love of reading, support independent bookstores, and connect with stories in a whole new way.

How Reading Inspires

Books have the power to transform our perspectives, ignite our imaginations, and connect us to ideas we’ve never considered before. When we read, we embark on journeys that teach us about other cultures, eras, and experiences. Every page can inspire us to think bigger and feel more deeply, offering solace during challenging times and a spark of joy when we need it most.

Whether it’s discovering a beloved classic or uncovering an overlooked gem, reading reminds us that stories are a universal thread connecting humanity. Adding used books to your collection only deepens that connection—knowing someone else may have been inspired by the same words you’re reading adds an extra layer of meaning to the experience.

The Benefits of Used Books

Used books are a treasure trove of value, both for your wallet and the environment. They often come at a fraction of the cost of new ones, making it easier to build a rich and varied library without breaking the bank. Beyond the savings, choosing pre-loved books contributes to sustainability. Every time you purchase a used book, you’re helping to reduce waste and extend the lifecycle of a resource that might otherwise be discarded. For avid readers, this can be a win-win situation: access to affordable literature while minimizing environmental impact. And let’s not forget the charm of finding handwritten notes in the margins or a forgotten bookmark tucked between the pages—little traces of the book’s previous life that make it uniquely yours.

Supporting Local and Independent Sellers

Buying used books isn’t just good for you and the planet—it’s also a meaningful way to support independent bookstores and local sellers. These community-centered businesses are often the heart of their neighborhoods, offering personalized recommendations, cozy spaces to explore, and events that bring readers together. When you buy a used book from an independent bookstore like Lioness Books , you’re helping to keep these small businesses thriving in an age of big-box retailers and online giants.

Independent sellers often curate unique collections, giving you the chance to uncover rare finds and unexpected treasures that you won’t see on mainstream bestseller lists. By choosing to shop local, you’re not just adding to your bookshelf—you’re investing in a literary community that values stories and the people who love them.

Used books hold a world of possibilities: they inspire us, help us save and live sustainably, and allow us to influence the independent bookstore.

The next time you’re on the hunt for your next read, consider browsing the shelves of your local shop for a pre-loved gem. You might just find your next favorite story—and support a vibrant community while you’re at it.

Lioness Books is more than just a bookstore—it’s a special place for book lovers and a bridge for community and connection. Lioness Books offers readers a chance to discover hidden gems and beloved classics. With a strong commitment to supporting local authors and fostering a love for literature, we make it easy to find your next great read. Whether you prefer to shop online from the comfort of your home or visit our charming mobile book trailer for an in-person experience, Lioness Books has something for everyone. Explore our website to browse their selection, learn about upcoming events, and join a vibrant community that celebrates the power of stories. Let Lioness Books help you find your next literary treasure!

FAQs

1. Why should I consider buying used books instead of new ones?
Used books are more affordable, eco-friendly, and often come with unique charms like handwritten notes or bookmarks. They allow you to enjoy great reads while supporting sustainability and adding a touch of history to your collection.

2. How does buying used books support independent bookstores?
When you purchase used books from an independent bookstore, you help sustain small, community-focused businesses like Lioness Books. These stores often host unique collections, events, and personalized recommendations, fostering a vibrant literary community.

3. Where can I find used books to buy?
You can find used books at local independent bookstores, online marketplaces, and community events. For a unique experience, visit Lioness Books online or at their mobile book trailer to explore their curated selection of pre-loved gems.

Six Months for Lioness Books - By The Numbers

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 14:00:00 GMT

After only six months in business, Lioness Books has had an amazing start, thanks to the support of our dedicated community. Reflecting on the year through numbers shows our incredible success - all thanks to our patrons!

Events - 61

Lioness Books was able to host sixty-one events with our community partners over six months in business in 2024. Our primary goal was to partner with small businesses to cross-promote shared goals like shopping local and promoting literacy. While we did attend some larger events such as the Texas Book Festival and Old Town Christmas Festival , we mainly promoted smaller, neighborhood events that brought together the community around a shared love of books and reading.

Community Partners - 28

We connected with 28 community partners throughout our first six months in business in 2024. The bookmobile was hosted by small businesses like coffee shops and breweries. We were able to set up in several neighborhoods and encourage conversations about books and literacy in communities. We attended several makers fairs and festivals. We also worked with schools and hospitals! The possibilities for partnerships are endless and we are so excited to form new connections all over the Austin area in 2025.

Books Donated - 245

As a bookseller, giving away books for free may seem counterintuitive, but thanks to the generosity of our customers and supporters, Lioness Books was able to donate books in several different capacities this year! We have a "Free Book" cart that we are able to display at select events to make sure no one leaves empty-handed. We gave away 104 books from our Free Book Cart in our first six months in business.

We also donated 71 books to the Inside Books Project . Inside Books Project is an Austin-based community service volunteer organization that sends free reading materials to people incarcerated in Texas. Inside Books is the only books-to-prisoners program in Texas, where more than 120,000 people are behind bars. Inside Books Project works to promote reading, literacy, and education among incarcerated individuals and to educate the general public on issues of incarceration.

Finally, we opened our first Little Free Library at one of our community partners, Learn Lee Tutors , in Leander, TX, and donated 70 books. Little Free Libraries expand access to books by providing literature at no cost, at a variety of locations. Being able to donate books and provide maintenance is another way we strive to create strong partnerships with the community and improve literacy access for all.

Looking to the future...

As we strive to empower our communities through access to literature, we sign our goals accordingly. For 2025, we plan on expanding and continuing to grow our influence in several areas.

- Open and maintain 4 new Little Free Libraries in the Austin area community in 2025.

- Donate an additional 500 books to the community this year.

- Build 25 new community partnerships, while continuing to support the local businesses that have partnered with us since our inception.

Every purchase you make through our bookstore allows us to reach these goals and invest back into the community all year long. Thank you for your support!

The Benefits of Audiobooks for Students

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 19:51:09 GMT

Key Takeaways

Enhanced Learning Experience
Audiobooks improve comprehension, memory retention, and listening skills, making lessons more engaging and accessible for students.
Support for Struggling Readers
Students with learning disabilities, language barriers, or difficulties with traditional reading can better understand material through audiobooks.
Inclusivity in Education
Audiobooks create opportunities for students with dyslexia, visual impairments, or other challenges to learn on equal footing with their peers.
Flexibility and Convenience
Students can listen to audiobooks anytime, anywhere—while commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home—fitting learning into busy schedules.
LibroFM as a Resource
LibroFM offers an extensive library of audiobooks , user-friendly navigation, and customizable listening options, all while supporting local bookstores.

Students face an increasing demand to juggle academics, extracurricular activities, and social responsibilities all while being locked into the digital world. With this whirlwind of obligations, finding effective and engaging ways to learn is more important than ever. Audiobooks have emerged as a powerful tool for students, offering a fresh perspective on education that goes beyond traditional textbooks. By combining convenience with innovation, audiobooks are inspiring how students absorb and retain information. Whether enhancing comprehension or making education more inclusive, audiobooks provide countless benefits that support every learner’s journey.

How Audiobooks Enhance Learning for Students

Audiobooks bring stories and lessons to life in ways that printed text often cannot. Through expressive narration and the ability to listen at any pace, students can better grasp complex material and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Listening activates different areas of the brain, improving focus and memory retention. Students who struggle with traditional reading—due to learning disabilities, language barriers, or simply a preference for auditory learning—can greatly benefit from this alternative approach.

Additionally, audiobooks help students develop strong listening skills, a critical asset in both academic and real-world contexts. By listening to skilled narrators, students are exposed to proper pronunciation, tone, and inflection, which can improve their own verbal communication skills. For literature courses, audiobooks allow students to fully experience the rhythm, emotion, and nuances of the text, enhancing their appreciation for the written word.

Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment with Audiobooks

Education should be accessible to everyone, and audiobooks are a game-changer for creating inclusive learning environments. For students with dyslexia or visual impairments, audiobooks remove barriers and empower them to engage with the same material as their peers. This inclusive access fosters confidence, participation, and a sense of belonging in the classroom.

Moreover, audiobooks support multilingual learners by providing exposure to native speech patterns, aiding in language acquisition and comprehension. They’re also a valuable resource for students who have difficulty sitting still for long periods, as audiobooks allow for mobility while learning. Whether walking to class, riding the bus, or relaxing at home, students can seamlessly incorporate learning into their daily routines.

Discovering Audiobooks with LibroFM

One platform making waves in the audiobook world is LibroFM. Designed with user-friendliness in mind, LibroFM offers seamless navigation, ensuring students can quickly find what they need. Its vast library of titles spans every subject and interest, from classic literature to cutting-edge science and history. Students can customize their listening experience, adjusting playback speed or bookmarking key sections for easy review.

What sets LibroFM apart is its commitment to supporting local bookstores . By using LibroFM, students and educators alike contribute to their communities while gaining access to an invaluable educational resource. With a simple setup and an intuitive interface, LibroFM makes diving into the world of audiobooks effortless and enjoyable.

Audiobooks are reshaping how students learn, making education more engaging, accessible, and inclusive. Platforms like LibroFM amplify these benefits, providing students with the tools they need to succeed. By embracing audiobooks, students can unlock new pathways to knowledge and achieve their full potential—one story at a time.

At Lioness Books , we’re passionate about empowering every learner to discover their potential through the joy of reading—in all its forms. Whether you’re a student, educator, or lifelong learner, our carefully curated collection includes resources to inspire and support your educational journey. Explore the transformative power of audiobooks and find your next favorite story or study tool with us. Visit Lioness Books today and see how we can help you turn the page toward success!

FAQ:

How can audiobooks help students improve their learning?

Audiobooks enhance comprehension, memory retention, and listening skills. They provide an alternative way to absorb information, especially for students who may struggle with traditional reading or have learning differences. Listening to expressive narrators also deepens students' understanding and appreciation of the material.

Are audiobooks suitable for all types of learners?

Yes! Audiobooks benefit a wide range of learners, including those with dyslexia, visual impairments, or language barriers. They’re also great for auditory learners and students with busy schedules, as they can be listened to on the go. Audiobooks are an inclusive tool that supports diverse learning needs.

What makes LibroFM a good platform for students?

LibroFM offers a vast library of audiobooks across subjects, making it easy for students to find what they need. Its user-friendly interface allows for customizable listening experiences, such as adjustable playback speed and bookmarking features. Plus, every purchase supports local bookstores, making it a win-win for learners and their communities.

The Lioness Books Holiday Gift Guide for Book Lovers

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:43:52 GMT

Lioness Books wants to encourage you to buy locally this holiday season. Every small business purchase has an impact on nearby communities. We are able to share the love of books beyond our bookmobile by collaborating with non-profits like Inside Books, North Austin Family Network, and the Camacho Elementary PTA thanks to our customers. Lioness Books has compiled a list of recommended books for every bookworm on your list to simplify your holiday shopping. These books are available as audiobooks on Libro.fm and in our online shop . If nothing on this list jumps out at you, view our entire collection of December book recommendations, on our online bookstore and audiobook store. From all of us at Lioness Books, thank you for supporting small businesses.

ADULT FICTION

The Blue Hour

Paula Hawkins

The Blue Hour a book by Paula Hawkins

Welcome to Eris: an island with only one house, one inhabitant, one way out. Unreachable from the Scottish mainland for twelve hours each day.

Once home to Vanessa: A famous artist whose notoriously unfaithful husband disappeared twenty years ago.

Now home to Grace: A solitary creature of the tides, content in her own isolation.

But when a shocking discovery is made in an art gallery far away in London, a visitor comes calling.

And the secrets of Eris threaten to emerge....

A masterful novel that is as page-turning as it is unsettling, The Blue Hour recalls the sophisticated suspense of Shirley Jackson and Patricia Highsmith and cements Hawkins's place among the very best of our most nuanced and stylish storytellers.

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Intermezzo

Sally Rooney

Intermezzo a book by Sally Rooney

Aside from the fact that they are brothers, Peter and Ivan Koubek seem to have little in common.

Peter is a Dublin lawyer in his thirties--successful, competent, and apparently unassailable. But in the wake of their father's death, he's medicating himself to sleep and struggling to manage his relationships with two very different women--his enduring first love, Sylvia, and Naomi, a college student for whom life is one long joke.

Ivan is a twenty-two-year-old competitive chess player. He has always seen himself as socially awkward, a loner, the antithesis of his glib elder brother. Now, in the early weeks of his bereavement, Ivan meets Margaret, an older woman emerging from her own turbulent past, and their lives become rapidly and intensely intertwined.

For two grieving brothers and the people they love, this is a new interlude--a period of desire, despair, and possibility; a chance to find out how much one life might hold inside itself without breaking.

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Adult Nonfiction

Be Ready When the Luck Happens

Ina Garten

Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir a book by Ina Garten

Here, for the first time, Ina Garten presents an intimate, entertaining, and inspiring account of her remarkable journey. Ina's gift is to make everything look easy, yet all her accomplishments have been the result of hard work, audacious choices, and exquisite attention to detail. In her unmistakable voice (no one tells a story like Ina), she brings her past and her process to life in a high-spirited and no-holds-barred memoir that chronicles decades of personal challenges, adventures (and misadventures) and unexpected career twists, all delivered with her signature combination of playfulness and purpose.

From a difficult childhood to meeting the love of her life, Jeffrey, and marrying him while still in college, from a boring bureaucratic job in Washington, D.C., to answering an ad for a specialty food store in the Hamptons, from the owner of one Barefoot Contessa shop to author of bestselling cookbooks and celebrated television host, Ina has blazed her own trail and, in the meantime, taught millions of people how to cook and entertain. Now, she invites them to come closer to experience her story in vivid detail and to share the important life lessons she learned along the way: do what you love because if you love it you'll be really good at it, swing for the fences, and always Be Ready When the Luck Happens .

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The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War

Erik Larson

The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War a book by Erik Larson

On November 6, 1860, Abraham Lincoln became the fluky victor in a tight race for president. The country was bitterly at odds; Southern extremists were moving ever closer to destroying the Union, with one state after another seceding and Lincoln powerless to stop them. Slavery fueled the conflict, but somehow the passions of North and South came to focus on a lonely federal fortress in Charleston Harbor: Fort Sumter.

Master storyteller Erik Larson offers a gripping account of the chaotic months between Lincoln's election and the Confederacy's shelling of Sumter--a period marked by tragic errors and miscommunications, enflamed egos and craven ambitions, personal tragedies and betrayals. Lincoln himself wrote that the trials of these five months were "so great that, could I have anticipated them, I would not have believed it possible to survive them."

At the heart of this suspense-filled narrative are Major Robert Anderson, Sumter's commander and a former slave owner sympathetic to the South but loyal to the Union; Edmund Ruffin, a vain and bloodthirsty radical who stirs secessionist ardor at every opportunity; and Mary Boykin Chesnut, wife of a prominent planter, conflicted over both marriage and slavery and seeing parallels between them. In the middle of it all is the overwhelmed Lincoln, battling with his duplicitous secretary of state, William Seward, as he tries desperately to avert a war that he fears is inevitable--one that will eventually kill 750,000 Americans.

Drawing on diaries, secret communiques, slave ledgers, and plantation records, Larson gives us a political horror story that captures the forces that led America to the brink--a dark reminder that we often don't see a cataclysm coming until it's too late.

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Cookbooks

Good Lookin' Cookin': A Year of Meals - A Lifetime of Family, Friends, and Food [A Cookbook]

Dolly Parton, Rachel Parton George

Good Lookin' Cookin': A Year of Meals - A Lifetime of Family, Friends, and Food [A Cookbook] a book by Dolly Parton and Rachel Parton George

Hey, good lookin'--what ya got cookin'?"

This is what Dolly Parton sings to her sister Rachel Parton George whenever she walks into her kitchen. It's what you do when a love for good music and good food runs in the family.

In Good Lookin' Cookin' Dolly and Rachel share tips for hosting events all year long, including twelve multi-course menus of cherished recipes for New Year's Day, Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and more. You'll learn how much butter or whipped cream goes into a "Dolly Dollop," what condiment is almost always on the table at Parton family meals, and what special dish Rachel makes at Dolly's request every year for her birthday. Recipes include American classics such as Country Ham and Biscuits, Barbecue Spare Ribs, Family Favorite Meatloaf, Slaw of Many Colors, Watermelon Fruit Salad, Mac and Cheese, and Strawberry Shortcake.

Filled with more than 80 delicious dishes as well as photographs of Dolly and Rachel cooking and hosting all year long, Good Lookin' Cookin' is a treasured cookbook that will make you feel like part of the Parton family. With their trademark warmth and sisterly love, Dolly and Rachel remind you that cooking doesn't need to be serious--it should be fun! And always good lookin'!

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Does This Taste Funny?: Recipes Our Family Loves

Stephen Colbert, Evie McGee Colbert

Does This Taste Funny?: Recipes Our Family Loves a book by Stephen Colbert and Evie McGee Colbert

"Hopefully reading this book and cooking these recipes will feel like hanging out with us at home. We basically live in the kitchen anyway." --Evie and Stephen Colbert

As Evie and Stephen explain it, Does This Taste Funny? had its beginnings in the Covid lockdown. "We were all stuck together and couldn't go out, so we cooked. We had all three kids back under one roof for the first time in a long time, and we had dinner each night as a family. Cooking together became a major source of entertainment."

Now, the Colberts invite us into their kitchen and around their dining room table. Sharing Stephen and Evie's favorite recipes, as well as those of their family and friends, this book offers everything from Party Food (called "party food" because "appetizers" implies something to follow when we all know that, often, this is the only course), to Seafood, to Poultry and Meat ("Evie and I have different relationships to meat. I like it. Evie can take it or leave it, and mostly she leaves it."), to Desserts ("This is one of the largest sections of the book. Evie always reminds me that desserts are a great way to postpone clearing up."), to Drinks ("I love cocktail hour. It feels like a reward for having gone so long without a cocktail"), all tied together with playful dialogue between Stephen and Evie and gorgeous shots of their food, family, and home.

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Young Adult Fiction

Nothing Like the Movies

Lynn Painter

Nothing Like the Movies a book by Lynn Painter

For a few beautiful months, Wes had his dream girl: strong-willed girl-next-door Liz. But right as the two were about to set off to UCLA to start their freshman year together, tragedy struck. Wes was left dealing with the fallout, which ultimately meant losing Liz in the process.

Flash forward months and months later and Wes and Liz find themselves in college, together. In a healthier place now, Wes knows he broke Liz's heart when he ended things, but he is determined to make her fall back in love with him.

Wes knows Liz better than anyone, and he has a foolproof plan to win her back with the rom-com worthy big gestures she loves. Only...Liz will have none of it . Wes has to scheme like a rom-com hero to figure out how to see her. Even worse, Liz has a new friend...a guy friend.

Still, Wes won't give up, adapting his clever plans and going hard to get Liz's attention and win back her affection. But after his best efforts get him nowhere, Wes is left wondering if their relationship is really over for good.

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Sky’s End

Marc J. Gregson

Sky's End a book by Marc J. Gregson

Plummet into a kill-or-be-killed competition where a scrappy underdog hell-bent on revenge must battle colossal monstrosities and claw his way to the top in this fast-paced, breakout sensation from YA fantasy author Marc J Gregson.

Exiled to live as a Low under the merciless rule of the Meritocracy, sixteen-year-old Conrad refuses to become heir to his murderous uncle. But when behemoth sky serpents attack the floating island of Holmstead and devour Conrad's ailing mother, Conrad cuts a deal to save the only family he has left. To rescue his sister from his uncle's clutches, Conrad must enter the Selection of the Twelve Trades.

Freshly recruited into Hunter, the deadliest of all the Trades, Conrad endures rigorous training, manipulative peers, and the Gauntlet--a brutal final challenge that pits Conrad's skyship crew against the very terrors that orphaned him. As Conrad competes in the lowest of stations, he overhears whispers of rebellion in the dark. Conrad had never known anything existed below the toxic black clouds of the Skylands . . . until now.

Grab your copy of Book One of the Above the Black trilogy and immerse yourself in a richly detailed dystopia, where failing to rise will most certainly mean your fall. Chock-full with epic, edge-of-your-seat battles, nail-biting twists, and bonds of brotherhood, this action-packed series starter is reminiscent of Attack on Titan and will appeal to fans of Red Rising . A captivatingly wild ride to keep you up late at night as you race toward the finish!

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Children’s

The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science

Kate McKinnon

The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science a book by Kate McKinnon

From beloved Saturday Night Live alum Kate McKinnon comes a madcap new adventure about three sisters, a ravenous worm, and a mysterious mad scientist.

So, you want to be a young mad scientist. Congratulations! Admitting it is the first step. The second step is reading the (definitely true) tale of the Porch sisters...

Gertrude, Eugenia, and Dee-Dee Porch do not belong. They don't belong in the snooty town of Antiquarium, where all girls have to go to etiquette school and the only dog allowed is the bichon frise. They don't belong with their adoptive family, where all their cousins are named Lavinia and their Aunt has more brooches than books. And they certainly don't belong at Mrs. Wintermacher's etiquette school--they're far more interested in science. After getting kicked out of the last etiquette school that would take them, the girls expect to be sent away for good... until they receive a mysterious invitation to new school.

Suddenly the girls are under the tutelage of the infamous Millicent Quibb--a mad scientist with worms in her hair and oysters in her bathtub. At 231 Mysterium Way, the pizza is fatal, the bus is powered by Gerbils, and the Dean of Students is a hermit crab. Dangerous? Yes! More fun than they've ever had? Absolutely! But when the sisters are asked to save their town from an evil cabal of nefarious mad scientists, they must learn to embrace what has always made them stand out, and determine what side they're on--before it's too late!

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Into the Uncut Grass

Trevor Noah (author), Sabina Hahn (illustrator)

Into the Uncut Grass a book by Trevor Noah and Sabina Hahn

But sooner or later your mother will find us," Walter said, looking back at the house. "She always does."

The boy's eyes lit up again. He had an idea.

"Then this time we need to go where we've never gone before," he said. "Into the uncut grass!"

In the tradition of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse comes a gorgeously illustrated fable about a young child's journey into the world beyond the shadow of home, a magical landscape where he discovers the secrets of sharing, connection, and finding peace with the people we love. Infused with the author's signature wit and imagination, in collaboration with visionary artist Sabina Hahn, it's a tale for readers of all ages--to be read aloud or read alone.

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Lioness Books Champions Audiobooks with Libro.FM: Make the Switch and Hear the Difference

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:20:41 GMT

Key Takeaways

Libro.fm prioritizes supporting independent bookstores like Lioness Books.
Libro.fm allows you to own audiobooks outright.
Libro.fm offers a curated library with a focus on independent voices and backlist titles.
Libro.fm provides personalized customer support and easy navigation.
Libro.fm curates monthly playlists with recommendations from independent bookstores.

At Lioness Books, we believe in fostering a love of reading in all its forms. Whether you crave the tactile experience of a physical book or prefer the convenience of an audiobook, we're here to guide you on your literary journey. As the audiobook market continues to expand, we're thrilled to partner with Libro.FM, a platform that goes beyond simply offering a vast library of audiobooks. Here's why Libro.FM might be the perfect switch for your audiobook needs.

Key Differences Between Libro.fm and Audible

The core difference between Libro.fm and Audible lies in their philosophy. Audible, owned by Amazon, is a subscription-based service with a focus on convenience and a vast selection. Libro.fm, on the other hand, prioritizes supporting independent bookstores like Lioness Books . With each purchase on Libro.fm , a portion goes directly to your chosen independent bookstore, allowing you to enjoy audiobooks while nurturing the literary community you love.

Here's a breakdown of some key differences:

Ownership: Libro.fm allows you to own audiobooks outright. Once purchased, they remain in your library forever, even if you cancel your membership. This means you can listen at your own pace, take breaks when needed, and never feel pressured to rush through audiobooks just to use up credits before they disappear.
Supporting Local Businesses: By choosing Libro.fm , you directly support independent bookstores like Lioness Books. Your audiobook purchases contribute to our ability to bring literacy and the love of reading back into local communities.
Great Customer Support: Unlike faceless customer service bots, Libro.FM offers personalized support from fellow book lovers, ensuring your questions and concerns are addressed with a genuine understanding of your reading journey.

Library Selection and Availability

Libro.FM is home to a carefully curated library teeming with captivating audiobooks across various genres. There are over 400,000 options to browse and get lost in.From the latest bestsellers to secret finds waiting to be discovered, you'll find an abundance of titles to fuel your audiobook curiosity.

Independent Voices and Backlist Titles:

Libro.fm shines a spotlight on independent voices, offering a haven for audiobooks that might be overlooked on larger platforms. You get to stumble upon a diverse range of authors and publishers as you browse, ensuring a richer literary landscape thrives. Libro.fm has a wealth of backlist titles – treasures from past publishing seasons that continue to resonate with readers. So, whether you crave the latest indie sensation or seek a captivating classic, Libro.fm has the perfect audiobook adventure waiting for you.

Independent Bookstore Recommendations:

One of Libro.fm's unique features is their integration with independent bookstores. Lioness Books, for instance, curates audiobook recommendations on Libro.fm, allowing you to explore staff picks and some sweet reads we love.

Libro.FM Makes Navigation Easy

Libro.FM offers a seamless and intuitive navigation experience. The platform's clean interface allows users to effortlessly browse through its audiobooks, categorized by genre, author, promotions, or bestseller lists . Advanced search features enable precise searches, helping you quickly find the exact title you're looking for. Libro.FM's user-friendly design ensures a smooth and enjoyable browsing experience.

Libro.FM Playlists Take Out The Guesswork

Feeling overwhelmed by the many options available? Libro.fm takes the guesswork out of choosing your next listen with their curated monthly playlists . Lioness Books and other independent bookstores contribute their expert picks to these playlists, creating themed collections that highlight hidden gems, new releases, and staff favorites. Whether you're in the mood for a heart-pounding thriller, a heartwarming romance, or a captivating nonfiction title, Libro.fm's playlists offer a convenient starting point to discover your next audiobook obsession.

In the end, the choice between Libro.fm and Audible comes down to what matters most to you. If you value supporting independent bookstores, owning your audiobooks, great customer service, promotions and deals, networking through reading,and exploring diverse voices, Libro.fm offers an advantage. By choosing Libro.fm and selecting Lioness Books as your partner bookstore, you're not just getting a fantastic audiobook experience, you're helping us curate a vibrant literary space, host exciting events , and continue fostering a love of books in our community. Lioness Books’ mobile trailer is a haven for bibliophiles, offering a carefully chosen selection of books, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and a passionate local bookseller eager to help you discover your next great read (or listen!). Visit our website to learn more!

FAQ:

What is the key difference between Libro.fm and Audible?

The core difference lies in their philosophy. Audible focuses on convenience and a vast selection, while Libro.fm prioritizes supporting independent bookstores like Lioness Books. With each purchase on Libro.fm, a portion goes directly to your chosen bookstore.

Does Libro.fm have a good selection of audiobooks?

Yes, Libro.fm offers a carefully curated library of over 400,000 audiobooks across various genres. You'll find everything from the latest bestsellers to hidden gems and backlist titles.

How does Libro.fm help independent bookstores?

Libro.fm allows you to directly support bookstores like Lioness Books. A portion of your audiobook purchase goes towards the bookstore, helping them bring literacy and the love of reading back into local communities.

Spotlight on Fatuma Hydara: Founder of Tuma’s Books, Bookseller of Diverse Literature

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 13:27:52 GMT

Fatuma Hydara is the owner of Tuma’s Books in New York City. She is a former educator and a Muslim, first-generation Gambian-American. She is committed to helping her customers find amazing, authentic stories by Black, Indigenous, and POC authors.

SA: Tell me a little about your bookstore, your mission, and how you got started.

FH: Tuma’s Books was named after myself. I try to specialize in books with a rich cultural heritage. I primarily focus on authors of color, but the main focus is [to] learn about other cultures through literature.

I think what drives me is being a Black, first-generation Gambian-American woman, I never see myself fully in stories that I’m reading, even as an adult. [It’s] a very curated space, so if you’re Costa Rican or Guatemalan, or you’re from Myanmar, you can just go to my website and there’ll be a book there that is representative of you.

As an online pop-up bookstore, I’m not going to compete as a general bookstore. So I have to think about what my passion is and how to niche down, and that just came naturally to me.

SA: Have you come across, or met any booksellers, that are doing what you’re doing?

SA: Tell me a little about your bookstore, your mission, and how you got started.

As an online pop-up bookstore, I’m not going to compete as a general bookstore. So I have to think about what my passion is and how to niche down, and that just came naturally to me.

SA: Have you come across, or met any booksellers, that are doing what you’re doing?

FH: That specific niche of looking for books that have a rich cultural heritage, not necessarily. In terms of ownership, I’m the only black Muslim-owned bookstore that I’m aware of.

SA: Well it’s powerful to be one of the first at something.

So what have you noticed, as far as the customer base? Is it typically people looking for something from their own culture? People saying “I want to find something about this other culture that I want to learn about”? Do you notice any trends or patterns?

FH: Interestingly, I started the bookstore for people looking for their own culture, but most of my client base is white ladies. Which is fine. So it has been like a weird disconnect to me because then you fall into the trap of “who am I catering to” and making sure you’re still sticking to your mission. I think part of it is access, so that’s why I have to create access programming. This is why I do free diverse books funds where I try to offer free books at events or stock bargain books to try to lower the cost when I’m at pop-ups. It’s not even that they don’t necessarily have the money. It’s that money is tight and priorities are different. I think sometimes, in certain communities, where it feels like a waste of money or they think of it like a school thing. Like you read books in school or if you’re a student in college and not something that you just do for fun. I think it’s doing the long game and the more that’s out there and the more people see what books are available the more that part of the client base will expand. People buy books for their kids, but not for themselves and that’s weird to me. Adults don’t see themselves as readers. That was one thing that surprised me, because I expected my customers to be other women of color and that’s not the case.

SA: I was curious because I’m wondering - as far as trends you’re seeing coming out of big publishing houses - what are you noticing?

FH: I think part of it is because of the way I do my research, I sometimes miss the trends. Like if you’re looking for bestsellers, go to Barnes and Noble. Those books have enough promotion and they don’t need me to do that. But I do notice the same books would stay on the bestsellers list forever and they all look the same. They’re all similar stories. They’re not as diverse as they could be. If it is an author of color, I think sometimes authors are stuck in niche genres.

SA: Oh, that’s interesting. Tell me more about that. What genres do you feel like you notice that in?

FH: I feel like there’s a lot of Black books that always have the race component. Sometimes…we just be chilling at the pool. Can I have a beach romance book with a Black woman? The thing is, readers will read anything [but] publishers have decided what they think will sell and make decisions based on that, but…who did you ask? You [publishers] just assumed who the readers are in this country, right? Part of that is connected to history. At some point, people didn’t have permission to read so it makes sense. Publishers are very much targeting people who are reading because they have the time and privilege to read. Women of color, like black women - we’re reading and what we’re reading is starting to shift a little bit, too.

SA: Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. Are you personally reading anything right now that you’re loving or any particular author that you want to shout out to?

FH: I’m in a graphic novel phase, and so there’s a comic book publishing company, Fair Square Comics [now FairSquare Graphics LLC ], that I discovered at a pop-up. They’re the first Black and immigrant-owned comic publisher. Their books are just so good. Most of them are translated fiction and their writers are from all over. There’s one of their books, called Fox In My Brain and it’s about mood disorders. The art is amazing and it’s not just for kids, but there are adult graphic novels too.

SA: So as far as people wanting to branch out and learn about other cultures through literature, what would be some recommendations that you would have for somebody reading this article and it’s their first exposure to this? Where’s a good place to start? What kinds of questions should they ask? Where and what should they research? How can they do it in a way that’s appropriate, respectful, and coming from a place of genuine curiosity and interest?

FH: I think one step is following the creators who are from those communities because they’re going to have read the book and they’ll be able to highlight problematic content that you might not. I think oftentimes people think to diversify their reading they need to completely change their reading. It’s like no, if you love thrillers, sis, you can keep reading thrillers, but there are other people who write thrillers. Just diversifying within your favorite genres could be a really good place to start.

Typically, if the author's identity matches the identity of the characters in the story, it’s usually fairly safe. I also look at reviews from people who share the heritage of those stories. I think that’s also helpful. It’s just being curious and being open. Reading is political. What you consume is going to shift your perspective.

If you are interested in diversifying your bookshelf, check out Tuma’s Books today and support another great independent bookstore!

The Benefits of Audiobooks for Individuals with Disabilities: Enhancing Accessibility

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:40:59 GMT

At Lioness Books, we believe everyone deserves the joy of a good story. But for many individuals with disabilities, traditional reading can present challenges. This is where audiobooks shine – offering a powerful and accessible way to experience the written word. There are many benefits audiobooks provide for readers with some challenges and great platforms like Libro.FM, our audiobook partner, who champions inclusivity in the literary world.

Understanding the Importance of Audiobooks for Individuals with Disabilities

For those with visual impairments, reading a physical book can be difficult or even impossible. Audiobooks eliminate this barrier, allowing individuals to access the vast world of literature independently.

Similarly, for those with mobility limitations, holding a book or turning pages may be cumbersome. Audiobooks liberate them from these constraints, making reading a comfortable and enjoyable activity.

Learning disabilities like dyslexia can also make traditional reading frustrating. However, audiobooks cater to auditory learners, bypassing the decoding struggles associated with reading text. This allows them to focus on understanding the story and developing their comprehension skills.

Audiobooks can provide a more engaging way to consume information for individuals with attention deficits, as the auditory format can help maintain focus. The rhythmic nature of audiobooks can also create a soothing backdrop, making it easier to stay engaged with the content. Additionally, audiobooks offer the flexibility to listen at one's own pace, allowing individuals with attention deficits to pause or rewind as needed.

Audiobooks Promote Inclusivity for Individuals with Disabilities

Discussion groups, book clubs, and online forums are vital aspects of the reading experience. Audiobooks foster inclusivity for individuals with disabilities by providing an accessible way to experience literature, regardless of what can be a limitation. Audiobooks allow them to participate in discussions, book clubs, conversations, and school assignments, ensuring they are not excluded due to their disability. With audiobooks, individuals can stay up-to-date on the latest literary pieces, fostering a sense of belonging and connection within the wider literary community.

Additionally, audiobooks allow individuals with disabilities to engage with current events and popular culture through non-fiction titles. Whether it's a biography, a historical account, or a self-help guide, audiobooks provide access to important information and diverse perspectives. This empowers individuals with disabilities to participate fully in conversations and stay informed.

Libro.FM: Supporting Readers with Disabilities with Accessible Audiobooks

Here at Lioness Books , we're proud to partner with Libro.FM , an audiobook platform that prioritizes accessibility and supports independent bookstores. Libro.FM offers a wide range of audiobooks, including titles with descriptive narration for visually impaired listeners. Their user-friendly interface allows patrons to adjust playback speed and set bookmarks, ensuring a comfortable listening experience.

Libro.FM champions fair pay for authors and narrators, while also supporting independent bookstores like Lioness Books. This ensures a thriving ecosystem within the publishing industry, benefiting everyone from the author to the listener.

By choosing audiobooks on Libro.FM , you're not just enjoying a captivating story; you're supporting disability inclusion and the independent bookstore community.

Audiobooks are a powerful tool for promoting accessibility in the literary world. They remove barriers for individuals with disabilities and visual impairments, allowing them to experience the joy of reading and become active participants in the literary community. At Lioness Books , we are passionate about the power of audiobooks and encourage you to explore this enriching format with the support of Libro.FM . So why not pick up your headphones and get lost in a great audiobook today?

To learn more about Lioness Books, visit our website www.lionessbookstx.com

Frightfully Delicious: Spooky-Themed Cookbooks for Your October Festivities

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Lioness Books has a multitude of cookbooks for purchase in the Lioness Books mobile bookstore, but did you know that you can also buy new cookbooks on our Bookshop online storefront? Try something new with these spooky, witchy, and frightfully delicious cookbooks this October.

Food to Die for: Recipes and Stories from America's Most Legendary Haunted Places
Amy Bruni, Julie Tremaine

Discover tantalizing recipes, spine-tingling stories, and historic photos from the most notoriously haunted locations across America in this fun and fascinating cookbook. Paranormal investigator and Kindred Spirits co-host Amy Bruni leads you through eerie hotels, haunted homes, hellish hospitals, and spooky ghost towns, giving you stories and a recipe from each place.

Food to Die for: Recipes and Stories from America's Most Legendary Haunted Places
Amy Bruni, Julie Tremaine

A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook
Patricia Telesco

This cauldron of culinary magic forever banishes the ordinary in eating. A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook by Patricia Telesco combines over 300 carefully selected recipes with bewitching information that will change your approach to cooking, whether you are the chef for yourself, your family, or a roomful of friends.

A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook combines delicious and easy-to-make recipes that span the globe and the centuries. You can use these wonderful dishes for any occasion. You can use a different recipe almost every day of the year and not repeat.

More than a listing of recipes, A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook enables you to use the foods you make to nurture your own magical goals or one provided in the book. Each ingredient's essential magical nature has been carefully considered and combined for a purpose. Here you will discover that apples are good to encourage peace, love, health, and earth magic, while apricots are ideal for romance. Over 110 foods are described, from alfalfa sprouts to yogurt.

A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook
Patricia Telesco

Disney Villains: Devilishly Delicious Cookbook

Julie Tremaine

Let Cruella de Vil, Maleficent, Ursula, and other beloved baddies guide you through some of their favorite devilishly delicious delicacies with this exciting and beautiful Disney Villains cookbook.

Being bad has never tasted so good! This deliciously evil cookbook features more than 50 tasty, easy-to-follow recipes inspired by the dastardly Disney Villains. From bewitching appetizers to delectable mains to decadent desserts, this cookbook offers Disney Villain-themed treats for every meal and occasion.

Featuring full-color photography, suggestions for alternate ingredients, and tips and tricks from some of your favorite Disney Villains, this all-ages cookbook is the perfect way to bring friends and family together with delicious Disney trickery.

Disney Villains: Devilishly Delicious Cookbook

Julie Tremaine

Let Cruella de Vil, Maleficent, Ursula, and other beloved baddies guide you through some of their favorite devilishly delicious delicacies with this exciting and beautiful Disney Villains cookbook.

The Horror Movie Night Cookbook: 60 Deliciously Deadly Recipes Inspired by Iconic Slashers, Zombie Films, Psychological Thrillers, Sci-Fi Spooks, and More
Richard S. Sargent, Nevyana Dimitrova

Slay movie night with frighteningly delicious food and cocktail creations inspired by your favorite scary movies, perfect for fans of spooky season and movie buffs alike!

If you're looking for kitschy Pinterest recipes like coffin-shaped cookies or zombie finger sandwiches, look elsewhere. With The Horror Movie Night Cookbook, you'll enjoy thoughtful and tasty food and cocktail pairings inspired by the actual content of chilling classics like Jaws, Psycho, Scream, The Conjuring, The Evil Dead, Halloween, and more of horror's most frightening favorites!

The Horror Movie Night Cookbook: 60 Deliciously Deadly Recipes Inspired by Iconic Slashers, Zombie Films, Psychological Thrillers, Sci-Fi Spooks, and More
Richard S. Sargent, Nevyana Dimitrova

Slay movie night with frighteningly delicious food and cocktail creations inspired by your favorite scary movies, perfect for fans of spooky season and movie buffs alike!

The Horror Movie Night Cookbook: 60 Deliciously Deadly Recipes Inspired by Iconic Slashers, Zombie Films, Psychological Thrillers, Sci-Fi Spooks, and More
Richard S. Sargent, Nevyana Dimitrova

Slay movie night with frighteningly delicious food and cocktail creations inspired by your favorite scary movies, perfect for fans of spooky season and movie buffs alike!

If you're looking for kitschy Pinterest recipes like coffin-shaped cookies or zombie finger sandwiches, look elsewhere.

With The Horror Movie Night Cookbook, you'll enjoy thoughtful and tasty food and cocktail pairings inspired by the actual content of chilling classics like Jaws, Psycho, Scream, The Conjuring, The Evil Dead, Halloween, and more of horror's most frightening favorites!

Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook: More Than 100 Recipes from the Dearly Departed

Mary Ann Winkowski, David Powers

Mary Ann Winkowski's abilities as a paranormal investigator have offered solace to countless people, either by reuniting them with loved ones who have died or by removing unwanted spirits and negative energy from homes, businesses or possessions. Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook is a collection of recipes bequeathed to Mary Ann through spirits of great cooks who have passed on. Arranged as two-page spreads, each entry includes a recipe as well as the story of how the author came to learn it.

Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook is part cookbook and part ghost story anthology; together, these elements create the most entertaining cookbook of the season.

These titles and more can be found at the Lioness Books online store . May your October cooking adventures be filled with spooky deliciousness!

Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook: More Than 100 Recipes from the Dearly Departed

Mary Ann Winkowski, David Powers

Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook is part cookbook and part ghost story anthology; together, these elements create the most entertaining cookbook of the season.

These titles and more can be found at the Lioness Books online store . May your October cooking adventures be filled with spooky deliciousness!

Why Independent Booksellers Are Vital to Local Communities

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:01:15 GMT

Key Takeaways

Independent bookstores play a vital role in fostering communities of culture and literacy.
They offer personalized service, unique selections, and support for local businesses.
Supporting independent bookstores helps to preserve cultural heritage and create vibrant communities.

Discover the Impact of Independent Booksellers on Local Communities

In an era dominated by online giants and digital content, the significance of independent bookstores cannot be overstated. These local institutions serve as more than just retail outlets; they are cultural hubs, community anchors, and champions of literacy. As we celebrate National Literacy Month, it's essential to recognize the invaluable contributions of independent booksellers to our communities.

Independent bookstores play a crucial role in fostering a love of reading, particularly among young people. By curating carefully selected collections, these stores introduce children and teens to a diverse range of authors and genres, sparking their imaginations and inspiring lifelong learning. Additionally, independent booksellers often host author events, book clubs, and storytelling sessions, creating engaging and interactive experiences that encourage children to explore the world through books.

Beyond their educational impact, independent bookstores serve as economic drivers for local communities. They support a network of authors, publishers, and printers, stimulating the local economy. Moreover, these bookstores often partner with other small businesses, such as coffee shops and bakeries, to create vibrant and thriving cultural districts.

Lioness Books hosts monthly events within the community each month. Some events to look out for include Books and Brews, Community Block Parties, hanging out at a local community neighborhoods, Book Clubs, and other community markets and events. As a mobile independent bookseller, Lioness Books is able to build a platform for the community to come together in a different way. Having a mobile bookstore is not a typical vendor you would see at some of these spaces, but Lioness Books is paving the way for literacy and reading to thrive again.

The Cultural Significance of Independent Booksellers

Independent bookstores are more than just places to buy books; they are cultural landmarks that reflect the unique character of their communities. These stores often become gathering places where people can connect, share ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations. They are spaces where diverse perspectives are celebrated, and where individuals can find solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.

In a world that is increasingly interconnected, independent booksellers offer a much-needed counterpoint to the homogenization of culture. They provide a platform for local authors and publishers to share their stories, preserving the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage. By supporting independent bookstores, we are not only investing in our local economies but also safeguarding the diversity and vibrancy of our communities.

Lioness Books mobile book trailer takes the cultural significance of independent booksellers and makes it more accessible by taking the store on the road. Our bookshop can come to any neighborhood, gathering, or event, bringing an array of books to browse.

Supporting Independent Booksellers

As we celebrate National Literacy Month, let us commit to supporting our local independent bookstores. By shopping at these stores, attending author events , and recommending them to friends and family, we can help to ensure their continued success. Together, we can create a future where independent bookstores thrive, enriching our communities and fostering a love of reading for generations to come.

Check out this article from one of our partners, Libro FM, talking about the benefits of supporting local independent bookstores!

Lioness Books' mobile book trailer is a vibrant hub of literary culture, bringing books and community together in a unique and accessible way. This traveling bookstore offers a diverse selection of titles, from classic novels to contemporary bestsellers. By visiting our next event or exploring our website, you can discover new authors, connect with like-minded readers, and support local businesses. Whether you're a seasoned bookworm or just starting your reading journey, Lioness Books' mobile book trailer is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves books and community. Check out our website for more information www.lionessbookstx.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of shopping at an independent bookstore over a large chain store?

Personalized Service: Independent bookstores often have knowledgeable staff who can offer personalized recommendations and create a welcoming atmosphere.
Unique Selection: Independent bookstores often carry a wider range of books, including rare, out-of-print, and locally published titles.
Community Support: Supporting independent bookstores helps to support local businesses and the community.

How can I find an independent bookstore near me?

Online Resources: Websites like Libro.FM and Bookshop.org can help you find independent bookstores in your area.
Local Chambers of Commerce : Your local chamber of commerce may have a list of independent bookstores in the community.
Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.

What can I do to support independent bookstores?

Shop Regularly: Purchase books and other items from your local independent bookshop.
Attend Events: Participate in author events , book clubs, and other activities hosted by independent bookstores.
Spread the Word: Recommend independent bookstores to friends and family.

How Libro.FM Works to Empower Independent Bookstores

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:50:22 GMT

In a world where the crisp pages of a book now often take the form of an eBook or audiobook, it's easy to overlook the charm and significance of independent bookstores. Libro.FM harnesses the power of the internet to bring the soul-nourishing experience of a good read right to your mobile app, giving life to the written word in ways that merge tradition with technology. This synergy offers readers like you a chance to support local bookstores with every audiobook chapter played. Libro.FM plays a vital role in sustaining local literary culture. Uncover the mechanisms this innovative platform brings benefits to not just avid readers, but entire communities as well.

Lioness Books is proud to offer a robust online store , bringing the joy of our curated collection directly to you. But online bookshops aren't just about convenience – they offer a treasure trove of benefits that can enhance your entire reading experience. Let's delve into the reasons why online book shopping might just become your new favorite way to find your next great read.

Key Takeaways

Lioness Books values the growth of literature and local bookstores
Libro FM's partnership promotes the sustenance of independent bookselling
Community bookshops are vital for cultural and intellectual wellness
The personalized service of local sellers outshines impersonal algorithms
Supporting local stores strengthens the fabric of the community

The Impact of Supporting Independent Bookstores In Local Communities

As Lioness Books , our unyielding commitment to nurturing the growth of literature leads us to champion the ethos of Libro.FM and their advocacy for independent bookstores. These havens of thought, with digital shelves packed with everything from science to fiction, serve as cultural infirmaries, nursing our communities back to intellectual health one reader at a time. Supporting local bookstores is akin to preserving the heartbeat of our neighborhoods.

Through our alliance with Libro.FM, we bolster the economy of ideas that independent booksellers cultivate. The act of buying a book transforms into a gesture of patronage that goes beyond commerce; it underpins the traditions of independent bookselling. This gesture provides a lifeline to these essential local outposts amidst the ever-intensifying tide of large online retailers.

Our customers often share stories of how they relish the personal touch that local booksellers provide, finding curated selections that an algorithm could never replicate. To support local bookstores is to affirm a belief in a personal, hands-on approach to bookselling, where every recommendation carries the weight of a conversation and every sale the significance of community support.

Libro.FM fortifies local bookstores, granting them the means to thrive against larger online competitors. By purchasing through Libro.FM, customers contribute to the preservation of independent bookselling traditions. This model champions a curated, personal bookselling experience that algorithms cannot match. Ultimately, Libro.FM’s platform reaffirms community bonds and intensifies the local cultural landscape through literature. If you are interested in browsing an unmatched online selection of audiobooks with great promotions, check out Libro.FM. Right now you can make a switch from Audible and receive 2 free books! Visit our website at https://www.lionessbookstx.com/Book-Store/audiobooks

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Libro.fm benefit local bookstores?

Libro.fm supports local bookstores by sharing profits from audiobook sales, directly contributing to the financial stability and community presence of independent retailers.

What percentage of sales goes to indie bookstores?

As Lioness Books , I can share that, on average, independent bookstores retain about 1/3 of their total book sales revenue, a vital lifeline for these community keystones.

Are there exclusive offers for customers of independent bookstores?

At Lioness Books, we curate deals specifically for our community of indie bookstore patrons, offering unique discounts and benefits in appreciation of their support.

Meet Teresa Argenbright: The Storyteller Behind Charlotte and Penelope and Their Magical Menagerie

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 13:37:45 GMT

Lioness Books was thrilled to converse with Teresa Argenbright, the brilliant mind behind the children’s book Charlotte and Penelope and Their Magical Menagerie. With its unique blend of rhyme and imagination, Charlotte and Penelope and Their Magical Menagerie is an uplifting and fabulous read for children of all ages. Teresa Argenbright is a Texas-based author who currently lives in the Fort Worth area. Get to know Teresa with us and find out how to be entered to win an autographed copy of her book.

LB: Could you tell me a little about yourself and what inspired you to write your first children’s book?

TA: For my adult life, I’ve written. I had a fabulous high school English teacher who kind of turned me on to my love for words. I like words. I like the way that they interplay with each other.

LB: Could you tell me a little about yourself and what inspired you to write your first children’s book?

TA: For my adult life, I’ve written. I had a fabulous high school English teacher who kind of turned me on to my love for words. I like words. I like the way that they interplay with each other.

My daughter got married about a year and a half ago and so for their reception, I wrote her and her new husband a poem and read it at their reception and it was wildly successful. Then one day, when they got back from their travels and the dust settled, my daughter said ‘Mom, you should write a children’s book’. At the same time, I had been noodling around with a poem that I was coming up with for the two girls that were the flower girls at her wedding, whose names happened to be Charlotte and Penelope and they were sisters. They were two and four at the time and they didn’t know me at the time but they were so cute, and their names were so lyrical and so I was playing around with a poem that I was going to do and give to them at Christmas or something. Then something told me ‘Don’t give it away yet and to hang onto it’. I found a publisher who said ‘Yeah, we’ll take a chance on it’ and the rest is history.

LB: Did you have a favorite book or author as a child?

TA: I don’t recall doing a lot of pleasure reading until I was completely out of school and then got back into reading. Now I love Barbra Kingsolver and Isabel Allende. As a child, I also remember learning some of the poems of Ogden Nash and then going back in later years and realizing his genius with words and word play and it’s humorous in two different ways, for both the child and adult. That’s who I’m trying to emulate with my work the most. I wanted to write a book that I would have enjoyed reading to my kids.

LB: What age range do you feel your book is best suited for?

TA: I think that the suitability is like kindergarten through third grade, so that’s roughly 5 through 8. I have seen younger ones be fascinated with the illustrations. That’s all on Dan. He’s a genius. I think it will take teachers in grades around 3 or 4 to introduce it to their students because some of the vocabulary in there is not first-grade material and I think a teacher could do all sorts of things with it and so I hope.

Dan McGeehan is the illustrator of Charlotte and Penelope and Their Magical Menagerie. You may explore more of Dan’s artwork at: https://childrensillustrators.com/DanMcGeehan/about

LB: What is one tip you would share with parents who may be struggling to get their children to enjoy reading?

TA: Teach the kids that you don’t need something moving on a screen to have great experiences. There’s something magical about sitting with an adult and turning the page together. As far as getting them into it, I think just reading aloud to your child, but not just at bedtime. Get them interested in the worlds that a book and other books can take them to. Help them to embody the story and ask them questions to make them part of the story so it’s not just words on a page.

LB: Do you plan on writing more children’s books?

TA: Yes, my dream is for this to become a series of books and so book number two is with the illustrator and I am starting to think about what book number three is going to be.

Purchase Teresa Argenbright’s book here !

Lioness Books would like to give one lucky winner an autographed copy of Charlotte and Penelope and Their Magical Menagerie! To enter the giveaway, all you need to do is fill out the entry form below.

Winner will be drawn on September 15th, 2024.

At the same time, I had been noodling around with a poem that I was coming up with for the two girls that were the flower girls at her wedding, whose names happened to be Charlotte and Penelope and they were sisters. They were two and four at the time and they didn’t know me at the time but they were so cute, and their names were so lyrical and so I was playing around with a poem that I was going to do and give to them at Christmas or something. Then something told me ‘Don’t give it away yet and to hang onto it’. I found a publisher who said ‘Yeah, we’ll take a chance on it’ and the rest is history.

LB: Did you have a favorite book or author as a child?

LB: What age range do you feel your book is best suited for?

Dan McGeehan is the illustrator of Charlotte and Penelope and Their Magical Menagerie. You may explore more of Dan’s artwork at: https://childrensillustrators.com/DanMcGeehan/about

LB: What is one tip you would share with parents who may be struggling to get their children to enjoy reading?

LB: Do you plan on writing more children’s books?

TA: Yes, my dream is for this to become a series of books and so book number two is with the illustrator and I am starting to think about what book number three is going to be.

Purchase Teresa Argenbright’s book here !

Winner will be drawn on September 15th, 2024.

Recognizing Banned Book Month

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:59:29 GMT

Free people should read freely.

History of Book Banning in the United States

In America, a country that claims intellectual freedom as part of its founding and success, book banning has a history that stretches all the way back to the time of the Puritans.

The first book documented as being banned in America is New English Canaan , published in 1637. The book was critical of Puritan culture, and specifically criticizes the settlers’ treatment of Native Americans. Not only was New English Canaan banned, but the author, Thomas Morton, was arrested and exiled. This event shows the roots of early censorship and colonization in the United States, and how intellectual freedom has always been controversial. It also often has ties to religious extremism and silencing voices that call for social justice.

Some books go through periods of censorship before being restored to public acceptance. Many titles that are considered classics today were once banned, especially when they were first published. Some of these titles include Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird , Alice Walker’s The Color Purple or Animal Farm by George Orwell. All of these books tackled subjects considered by some to be controversial in their time period such as race, abuse, or political power. However, these titles seem tame when compared to today’s standard Netflix lineup, which proves how banning is only a function of the current trends in censorship - completely dependent upon which voices those in power wish to silence.

Frequently Banned Book Themes

The American Library Association’s Office of Intellectual Freedom condemns censorship and works to defend each person's right to read under the First Amendment and to ensure free access to information. The OIF keeps data on book challenges in the United States, and provides resources to report censorship or book challenges/bans.

The ALA report on the most commonly banned books over the last decade reveals trends that target marginalized groups - as authors, characters, writing themes, and more. Common themes that show up in banned books include racism, LGBTQ+ themes or characters, colonization, religious freedom, incest, abuse, and political resistance. Anything that could be considered a threat to those in power is in danger of being banned.

The ALA notes that as recently as “... 2023, books representing the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals made up 47% of those targeted in censorship attempts”. This disturbing pattern is the opposite of inclusivity, and works against diverse representation in literature.

Check out the American Library Association’s List of most commonly banned books (2010-2019) at the following link - Top 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books: 2010-2019 | Banned Books (ala.org) Which of these titles have you read?

What Can Be Done

The most important thing you can do is make sure you are registered to vote if you are eligible. Be sure to research any candidate’s stance on censorship, First Amendment rights, and book banning.

Volunteer or get involved with nonprofits that work to fight Book Bans, such as PEN America . PEN America works to protect freedom of expression and supports authors, artists, and journalists. Get involved as a volunteer, donate or support local advocacy work.

You can also purchase banned books to keep them in circulation. Our curated lists for the month of August feature banned books only all month. These come in either physical books or audio books. Shop now through the Lioness Books’ Bookshop and Libro.FM affiliate pages.

https://www.ala.org/bbooks/censorship-numbers

What Can Be Done

The most important thing you can do is make sure you are registered to vote if you are eligible. Be sure to research any candidate’s stance on censorship, First Amendment rights, and book banning.

https://www.ala.org/bbooks/censorship-numbers

What Can Be Done

The most important thing you can do is make sure you are registered to vote if you are eligible. Be sure to research any candidate’s stance on censorship, First Amendment rights, and book banning.

Volunteer or get involved with nonprofits that work to fight Book Bans, such as PEN America. PEN America works to protect freedom of expression and supports authors, artists, and journalists. Get involved as a volunteer, donate or support local advocacy work.

https://www.ala.org/bbooks/censorship-numbers

Sources

Magazine, Smithsonian, and Chris Klimek. “A Brief History of Banned Books in America.” Smithsonian Magazine, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/a-brief-history-of-banned-books-in-america-180983011/. Accessed 6 July 2024.

Top 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books: 2010-2019 | Banned Books. https://www.ala.org/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/decade2019. Accessed 6 July 2024.

Convenience at Your Fingertips: Exploring the Benefits of Online Book Shopping at Lioness Books ATX

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:58:56 GMT

For bookworms in Austin, Texas, Lioness Books ATX is a haven for browsing the book mobile and discovering new literary treasures. But what if you can't make it out to see them, or simply crave the ease of shopping from your couch in your PJs? That's where the magic of online book shopping comes in!

Unparalleled Selection: A World of Books at Your Doorstep

Forget the limitations of physical shelves. Online bookstore s allow for a seemingly endless selection of titles, catering to every genre, niche interest, and reading preference. If you are interested in searching for some of the latest bestsellers, online stores will allow you to quickly search for specific titles or browse by category, ensuring you find exactly what you're looking for.

This vast selection also opens doors to discovering new authors and genres you might not have encountered before. Take advantage of online recommendations and curated lists to broaden your literary horizons and find your next hidden gem.

Price Comparisons and Special Offers: Finding the Best Deals

Gone are the days of blindly accepting the price tag. Online book shopping allows you to easily compare prices across different retailers, ensuring you get the best deal for your next purchase.

Many online stores , including Lioness Books ATX, also offer exclusive discounts, coupons, and special promotions. Keep an eye out for these deals to save money on your favorite books and build your home library without breaking the bank.

Convenience Reigns Supreme: Shop Anytime, Anywhere

Let's face it, life can be hectic. Online book shopping eliminates the need to squeeze bookstore visits into your busy schedule. Shop from the comfort of your home, on your lunch break, or even late at night – online stores are available 24/7, whenever the mood strikes to add a new book to your cart.

Effortless Research and Review Reading

Before you commit, online book shopping allows you to delve deeper into a book's details. Read author biographies, customer reviews, and even sample chapters to get a feel for the writing style and content. This research can be crucial in deciding whether a book aligns with your preferences.

Libro.FM audiobooks offer a distinct set of advantages alongside the convenience of online book shopping.

Discover the magic of audiobooks with Libro.FM – the perfect companion for commutes, workouts, or simply relaxing at home. Shop online and happy listening!

Multitasking Marvel: Listen While You Live: Listen to your favorite novels while commuting, exercising, doing chores, or even cooking. They allow you to squeeze in some r eading time even when your hands are full.
Accessibility for All: Audiobooks are a fantastic option for people with visual impairments or learning disabilities like dyslexia. They also cater to those who simply prefer listening over reading.
Enhanced Engagement: The Power of Performance: Talented narrators can bring a story to life, infusing characters with distinct voices and emotions. This can heighten the emotional impact of the narrative and make the listening experience truly immersive.
Improved Focus and Retention: Some people find it easier to focus and retain information when listening to an audiobook compared to reading visually. This can be especially helpful for complex topics or non-fiction books.
A Gateway to Literacy: Audiobooks can be a valuable tool for developing listening skills and vocabulary, particularly for children. They can also spark a love of reading in those who might struggle with traditional books.

Libro.fm offers an audiobook membership with a twist: you choose a local bookstore to support, like Lioness Books with every purchase! For $14.99 a month, you get a credit to redeem on any of their massive libraries (over 450,000 titles!). Plus, you get 30% off additional audiobook purchases and have access to other promotional offers!

The best part? You can cancel anytime and keep your purchased audiobooks. It's a win-win: enjoy audiobooks on your terms while giving back to your community's bookstores. Learn more and start your free trial at Libro.fm!

Supporting Lioness Books from Afar

While online book shopping offers undeniable convenience, it doesn't have to come at the expense of supporting your local bookstore. Here at Lioness Books, we take pride in being a cornerstone of the Austin literary community both online and with our mobile book trailer.

By choosing to shop online at https://www.lionessbookstx.com/ , you're not just getting access to a vast selection of books, you're also supporting a local, independent business that curates a unique collection and fosters a love of reading within our city.

So, the next time you're on the hunt for your next great read, consider the convenience and value of online book shopping at Lioness Books . With a world of literature at your fingertips and the opportunity to support a local business, online shopping might just become your new favorite way to discover the joy of books.

Happy reading!

Lioness Books Mobile Bookstore: Building The Lair

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:05:36 GMT

Why a Mobile Bookstore?

When deciding to open a mobile bookstore, I considered the many different options available to booksellers. There are so many different ways bookstores can operate these days - from online stores to brick-and-mortar, from new books to used books to audiobooks or ebooks - I had to decide what was most important to me and how it would align with my values as an entrepreneur.

I considered more traditional options but ultimately decided a mobile bookstore would be the best fit for me. A mobile bookstore allows me to take the books directly to the people and find customers in a variety of locations. I also recognize that going to a bookstore is a privilege not available to everyone - it was important to me to be able to remove that barrier for those who do not have access and make literature more accessible for everyone.

I envisioned the bookstore popping up at coffee shops, parks, or neighborhoods with a variety of literature available to the public. A mobile bookshop seemed the best way to accomplish this goal.

Once I decided to make the bookstore mobile, I needed to pick the best vehicle to transport the books. In doing my research, I came across vans and buses that had been converted into bookstores. I even found less traditional means such as bike and boat bookstores! But ultimately, I knew I needed to make a decision that would keep the books safe while still creating a comfortable environment for customers. It became obvious that a trailer was the best option, and I explored different sizes and styles in order to choose a trailer that would lend itself to the renovation process and create the perfect environment for a bookshop.

I envisioned the bookstore popping up at coffee shops, parks, or neighborhoods with a variety of literature available to the public. A mobile bookshop seemed the best way to accomplish this goal.

Once I decided to make the bookstore mobile, I needed to pick the best vehicle to transport the books. In doing my research, I came across vans and buses that had been converted into bookstores.

I even found less traditional means such as bike and boat bookstores! But ultimately, I knew I needed to make a decision that would keep the books safe while still creating a comfortable environment for customers. It became obvious that a trailer was the best option, and I explored different sizes and styles in order to choose a trailer that would lend itself to the renovation process and create the perfect environment for a bookshop.

Choosing The Right Materials

I wanted to create the feeling of an old bookstore while still being functional in a modern, mobile setting. When one thinks of an antiquarian bookstore or library, wood as a building material comes to mind.

I wanted to use as much wood as possible, including handcrafted bookshelves, wood siding on the storefront wall, a solid wood door and wood paneling on the ceiling.

Lighting is also an important consideration for a bookstore. I decided on soft, recessed lighting throughout the trailer and track lighting shining down on the main bookshelves. I wanted to be able to illuminate selected titles available on display and adjustable track lighting allowed me to do this.

In addition to the lighting added to the indoor space, I wanted to encourage as much natural lighting as possible. I added two windows to the trailer and a full-light entrance door in order to let in the sunshine and keep the trailer from feeling dark, cramped or small.

Lastly, I decided on soft, muted tones and natural colors for the interior finishes. I wanted something reminiscent of a lion’s habitat on the savannah - muted browns and yellows that would fade into the background and allow the books to be the focal point.

I wanted to use as much wood as possible, including handcrafted bookshelves, wood siding on the storefront wall, a solid wood door and wood paneling on the ceiling.

Building Out The Trailer

Creating a storefront for the trailer was important to make the entrance safe and accessible. Going through the built-in side door with steps was a less safe option and didn’t fit the needs of changing locations. In addition to creating a real storefront, having more space for displays was another reason for building a wall inside the trailer ramp door opening.

I wanted the majority of space in the trailer to be built out with bookshelves. Determining the perfect width of shelves was a challenge - having enough room for variation in book size while also leaving enough room for people to move around comfortably was the goal. I made sure to place all the kids books at an accessible height in the center aisle of the trailer so that they could easily find what they wanted.

It was critically important to have air conditioning and heat in the trailer so that people could shop comfortably in all types of weather. Installing a mini-split unit in the trailer allowed the trailer to be easily heated and cooled. Making sure the trailer was properly insulated also helped to maintain temperature and protect the inventory.

Building Out The Trailer

It was critically important to have air conditioning and heat in the trailer so that people could shop comfortably in all types of weather. Installing a mini-split unit in the trailer allowed the trailer to be easily heated and cooled. Making sure the trailer was properly insulated also helped to maintain temperature and protect the inventory.

The barrel-shaped ceiling of the trailer was challenging to finish out, so I ended up opting for wooden beadboard panels that would curve and conform to the shape of the trailer. Although difficult to work with, this ended up being my favorite part of the trailer build-out. The interior lights reflect off the lightly stained finish and bring a sense of openness to the trailer, while still having the old-world feel of wood paneling.

The finishing touch was the logo on the outside. Large, impossible to miss, and vibrant in white-on-black - the unique Lioness Books logo jumps out whether The Lair is driving down the road or parked at any location.

Atmosphere

Creating the perfect atmosphere for the bookstore meant taking into consideration factors specific to a mobile bookshop - like space for people to move around and also the safety of the trailer itself.

Although a small space, I wanted to create an open feel for customers. I wanted to keep plenty of room in the aisles, and also use the ramp door to create a large, open entrance to the store. I also expanded our inventory to the outside of the trailer, using book carts, tables, and racks to display merchandise. All of this helped to create a feeling of more space in the bookstore, and gave customers more options for browsing.

I also made sure to create dedicated spaces for children and to place books for kids down low in an easily accessible location at the center of the trailer. At events curated for children, I provide even more accessible options, with low tables, rugs, and book displays for kids that are at their level. Making the trailer kid-friendly has made visiting the bookstore a great outing for families.

Atmosphere

I also try to bring in elements that a customer would expect to find in a brick-and-mortar bookstore, such as music, plants, rotating displays, gift items, and educational materials on books and literacy. Providing these familiar elements creates a sense of comfort and intimacy within the store, and customers have remarked on how they instantly feel at-ease and can take their time browsing for the perfect selection.

Final Result

It took about six months to finish out the trailer and get it ready for the grand opening. Regular maintenance is still required, as things move and shift each time the trailer travels to a new location.

Fluctuations from temperature changes, towing the trailer, and normal wear-and-tear all mean that the trailer needs more upkeep than a traditional brick-and-mortar store might need, but it also has some advantages. The smaller space allows for a more focused, curated collection, with the mobility to reach people where they are at.

If a bookstore is only in one location, that store is mainly going to reach “readers only” - people who have the means, ability, and privilege to visit a bookstore. Taking the books into the community allows me to reach everyone - people who might not go out of their way to make a special trip to a bookstore, or people who may not be able to. The Lair allows me to bridge this gap and bring the books to the people.

Fluctuations from temperature changes, towing the trailer, and normal wear-and-tear all mean that the trailer needs more upkeep than a traditional brick-and-mortar store might need, but it also has some advantages. The smaller space allows for a more focused, curated collection, with the mobility to reach people where they are at.

If a bookstore is only in one location, that store is mainly going to reach “readers only” - people who have the means, ability, and privilege to visit a bookstore.

Taking the books into the community allows me to reach everyone - people who might not go out of their way to make a special trip to a bookstore, or people who may not be able to. The Lair allows me to bridge this gap and bring the books to the people.

How Mobile Booksellers Are Reviving Community Reading Habits

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 17:28:15 GMT

In an age of digital convenience, where e-readers and online retailers are often the go to, there's a resurgence happening in the literary world: mobile bookstores. These bookstores on wheels are more than just charming, vintage vehicles; they're revolutionizing how communities access and engage with books. Here at Lioness Books ATX, we're proud to be part of this exciting movement, and we believe mobile booksellers are playing a crucial role in reviving community reading habits.

Bringing Books to the People

One of the biggest advantages of mobile bookstores is their accessibility. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar stores, which might be limited by location or foot traffic, mobile booksellers can bring their curated collections directly to neighborhoods, schools, and events. This is particularly impactful in areas that lack bookstores altogether. By setting up shop at farmers markets, festivals, local parks, or community gatherings, mobile bookstores bridge the gap between readers and literature, fostering a love of reading where it might not have existed before.

Creating a Unique Browsing Experience

Mobile bookstores offer a browsing experience unlike any other. Unlike sprawling big-box stores, these roving libraries typically have a thoughtfully curated selection. This curated approach allows for a more personal connection between readers and the books themselves. Customers can browse a selection specifically chosen to cater to local tastes and interests, making it easier to discover new favorites or revisit old classics. Additionally, mobile bookstores often have a more intimate feel, with friendly booksellers readily available to offer recommendations and spark conversations about literature. This fosters a sense of community and encourages deeper engagement with the written word.

Revitalizing Local Literary Communities

Mobile bookstores are more than just places to buy books; they serve as cultural hubs that bring people together. By hosting events, promotions, and being active in the community, mobile booksellers create a space for readers to connect, discuss their favorite reads, and discover new ones. This fosters a sense of community around literature, encouraging people of all ages to share their love of books.

Breaking Down Barriers to Reading

Mobile bookstores can also play a vital role in promoting literacy and combating book deserts – areas with limited access to bookstores and libraries. By bringing books directly to underserved communities, mobile booksellers make reading materials more accessible, especially for children and young adults. This not only fosters a love of reading but also empowers individuals and communities through the written word.

The Future of Mobile Bookselling

The rise of mobile bookstores marks a return to a more community-oriented approach to reading. These innovative businesses are not only reviving a love of physical books but also creating vibrant spaces for literary connection. As mobile bookselling continues to grow, we can expect to see even more creative ways these businesses will bring the joy of reading to new and established communities alike.

Getting back to the basics in a new and modern way, from just being online to being back on a shelf, except this one has wheels!

At Lioness Books ATX, we're committed to playing our part in this exciting revolution. We believe that everyone deserves access to great books , and we're passionate about creating a space where book lovers can connect and share their love of reading. So next time you hear our wheels rolling down the street, be sure to stop by and explore our curated selection! You might just discover your next favorite read, and become part of our vibrant literary community.

To learn more about our selections, where we will be, and to book us for your next community event, visit our website !

Books in Your Neighborhood: Embrace Mobile Bookshop Magic with Lioness Books

Thu, 09 May 2024 17:16:55 GMT

Picture this: a vibrant Austin afternoon. The sun warms your skin as you meander through a bustling Austin Farmers Market. Live music spills from a corner booth, mingling with the laughter of families and the enticing sizzle of food vendors. Suddenly, something unique catches your eye – a charmingly converted 20-foot trailer into a Book trailer. It's Lioness Books , a mobile bookshop bringing the magic of literature straight to your neighborhood!

We understand the undeniable charm of a traditional bookstore, the musty scent of old paperbacks, and the endless rows promising literary adventures. However, we also recognize the limitations. Not everyone has easy access to a brick-and-mortar bookstore, and that's where Lioness Books swoops in, quite literally, to bridge the gap.

A Curated Oasis on Wheels

Think of us as your friendly neighborhood book fairy, minus the wings (though a touch of literary magic is never out of the question!). Our mobile bookstore allows us to bring the joy of reading directly to communities throughout Austin. We'll be a familiar sight at parks, farmers markets, schools, and community centers, offering a curated selection of books for readers of all ages and interests.

More Than Just Shelves

Lioness Books is more than just shelves on wheels. We're passionate about fostering a love of reading and creating a welcoming space for literary exploration. We envision cozy afternoons spent browsing our selection, lively book club discussions sparked by our recommendations, and opportunities that connect readers with the creative minds behind their favorite stories. We'll also be collaborating with local organizations to host literacy programs and events, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to discover the magic of books.

Diversity on the Shelves, Community in Our Hearts

Our commitment extends beyond convenience. Lioness Books prioritizes a diverse and inclusive selection, featuring works by both established and emerging authors from a variety of backgrounds. We believe that stories hold the power to connect us, and our shelves will reflect that belief. Additionally, we're dedicated to inspiring more reading for all in Austin. Local authors will find a platform to showcase their work, and readers can discover the wealth of talent right here in our city.

Join the Adventure!

So, keep an eye out for the Lioness Books mobile trailer roaming your neighborhood!

We invite you to come to our Grand Opening on June 1st at Wildlfire Park , or visit our website to stay updated on our location and schedule. We can't wait to greet you, share our love of books, and embark on a literary adventure together.

Remember, with Lioness Books , the bookstore truly comes to you. It's time to rediscover the joy of getting lost in a good book, right in the heart of your community.

On the Move: How Mobile Bookstores are Changing Reading Habits

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:32:40 GMT

In a world where convenience reigns supreme, mobile bookstores are emerging as a breath of fresh air for book lovers everywhere. These literary sanctuaries on wheels are revolutionizing the way people discover and engage with books, bringing literature directly to the streets and neighborhoods where traditional book shops might not venture. Lioness Books dives into the phenomenon of mobile bookstores and explores how they are reshaping reading habits in the digital age.

Gone are the days when book lovers had to trek to the nearest bookstore or library to satisfy their literary cravings. With mobile bookstores, literature is now hitting the road, making it more accessible than ever before. Whether it's a refurbished RV, a retrofitted bus, or a charmingly adorned van, these mobile libraries are popping up at local markets, festivals, and community events, bridging the gap between readers and books.

Books Bringing Impact

One of the most significant impacts of mobile bookstores is their ability to reach underserved communities. In areas where brick-and-mortar bookshops are scarce, these roving libraries serve as cultural hubs, providing access to books and literary experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. By bringing books directly to neighborhoods and events, mobile bookstores promote literacy and foster a love of reading from an early age, empowering individuals and communities through the written word.

Mobile bookstores offer a unique browsing experience that appeals to both avid readers and casual book enthusiasts alike. Unlike traditional bookstores, which can sometimes feel overwhelming with their vast selection, mobile bookstores hold a thoughtfully curated collection of books tailored to the tastes and interests of their local clientele. This personalized approach not only simplifies the browsing process but also encourages readers to discover new authors and genres they might not have encountered otherwise.

Books Bring Joy On the Go

Another key advantage of mobile bookstores is their adaptability and flexibility. With the ability to change locations and cater to different events and audiences, these literary wanderers bring a sense of spontaneity and excitement to the book-buying experience. Whether it's a pop-up book fair in a park, a local festival, or a company event looking for something new to bring to its employees, mobile bookstores infuse a sense of adventure into the act of book shopping. It helps bring a memorable and enjoyable outing for bookworms of all ages.

Mobile bookstores are not just about selling books; they also serve as community spaces where readers can connect with fellow book lovers and engage in literary discussions and events. From author signings and book clubs to storytelling sessions and workshops, these roving libraries foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging among readers, creating vibrant and inclusive literary communities wherever they go.

Mobile bookstores are more than just vehicles filled with books; they are catalysts for change, redefining the way we think about reading and book buying. By bringing literature directly to the streets, neighborhoods, and community events, mobile bookstores are breaking down barriers to access and igniting a passion for reading in communities around the world. So the next time you see a charmingly decorated mobile trailer parked on the corner, don't hesitate to step up to it and embark on a literary adventure unlike any other. After all, with mobile bookstores, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.

At Lioness Books, we may be coming to a neighborhood near you! As a mobile bookstore in Austin, Texas, we are excited about the chance to meet new people and make reading more accessible to local residents. We have events coming up, which you can check out on our website or give us a call to request us to come somewhere near you!

The Rise of the Digital Bookshelf: Building Your Collection with Online Bookstores

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 19:41:17 GMT

In an era where technology seamlessly intertwines with our daily lives, the world of literature has also undergone a transformative journey. Gone are the days of solely browsing through dusty shelves in brick-and-mortar bookstores; today, the digital realm offers a treasure trove of literary delights right at our fingertips. Welcome to the age of the digital bookshelf, where online bookstores reign supreme, offering bookworms an unparalleled avenue to curate their collections and unearth literary gems.

Embracing the Digital Renaissance

Online bookstores have revolutionized the way bibliophiles discover and acquire books. With just a few clicks, readers can traverse through virtual aisles teeming with a diverse array of titles, from timeless classics to contemporary bestsellers. No longer constrained by geographical boundaries or limited shelf space, the digital bookshelf opens up a world of possibilities, allowing readers to explore niche genres and obscure titles with ease.

The allure of buying books new online is a multifaceted experience that resonates with avid readers and casual enthusiasts alike. From the comfort of one's home, a world of literary exploration unfolds at the click of a button. The anticipation of receiving a freshly packaged book, pristine and untouched, carries with it a sense of excitement and possibility.

Online platforms provide access to reviews, recommendations, and personalized suggestions, enriching the browsing experience and guiding readers toward new discoveries. The convenience of doorstep delivery eliminates the need to venture out, ensuring that the joy of acquiring new books is seamlessly integrated into daily life. In this digital age, the act of purchasing books online transcends mere transactional convenience; it embodies a celebration of knowledge, imagination, and the enduring allure of the written word.

Building Your Literary Haven

Curating a digital bookshelf is akin to embarking on a quest for literary treasures. It's about crafting a personalized collection that reflects your unique tastes, interests, and aspirations. Whether you're a fervent fan of fantasy epics, a connoisseur of classic literature, or an aficionado of obscure niche genres, online bookstores offer an extensive selection to cater to every literary palate. By strategically navigating through search filters, recommendations, and curated lists, you can curate a bespoke library that transcends the boundaries of space and time.

Navigating the Digital Labyrinth

With the plethora of online bookstores available, finding the perfect platform can seem like navigating a labyrinth of choices. However, armed with the right knowledge and tools, you can embark on your literary quest with confidence. Look for reputable sellers with transparent policies regarding shipping and returns. Utilize advanced search options to refine your quest and uncover hidden literary treasures. Additionally, don't hesitate to explore user reviews and recommendations to glean insights and make informed decisions.

The Joy of Literary Discovery

Beyond the convenience and accessibility, the true essence of the digital bookshelf lies in the joy of literary discovery. There's an indescribable thrill in stumbling upon an unexpected find, uncovering obscure titles, and delving into uncharted literary territories. Each book becomes a portal to new worlds, ideas, and perspectives, enriching our lives in ways both profound and profound.

A New Chapter Awaits

As we embrace the rise of the digital bookshelf, let us embark on this literary journey with open hearts and curious minds. Let us celebrate the magic of storytelling and the endless possibilities that await us in the boundless realm of literature. So, dear reader, venture forth into the digital wilderness, for behind every virtual cover lies a new chapter waiting to be discovered.

At Lioness Books , we invite you to join us in this literary odyssey. Explore our curated collection of new books, embark on your own quest for literary treasures, and let the digital bookshelf be your gateway to a world of imagination and wonder.

Happy reading!

lioness-books

Community Supports Local Business: How Leander Showed Up

﻿ The Community Support That Changed Everything

The People We Have to Name

﻿ The Community Support That Changed Everything

The People We Have to Name

The Cleanup and the Donations

The Cleanup and the Donations

It Is Hard to Overstate What This Felt Like

It Is Hard to Overstate What This Felt Like

﻿ The Story Reached Beyond Leander

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is Lioness Books planning to open?

2. Is the bookmobile still operating during the rebuild?

3. How can I help Lioness Books rebuild?

4. Were any books or inventory saved from the fire?

5. Will Lioness Books still carry the same selection of used books and diverse titles?

We Are Coming Back, Stronger Than We Were

Lioness Spotlights Local: Leander Pride

Lioness Spotlights Local: Shiela Mae Proenza

Lioness Spotlights Local: L.B. Benson

Lioness Spotlights Local Author L.B. Benson in Austin, Texas

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

AS: What was the initial inspiration for your debut novel The Bartered Soul and your Andromeda’s Account series?

AS: Tell us about your paranormal romance trilogy, The Wolves of Woodbine Hollow. Do you have any favorite moments from writing it that you’d like to share?

AS: What intrigues you about blending fantasy and romance?

AS: Can you tell us anything about the final book in The Wolves of Woodbine Hollow trilogy, and when do you plan to publish it?

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

Lioness Spotlights Local: Tanya Athar-Jogee

Local Author Spotlight: Tanya Athar Jogee in Austin, Texas

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

AS: Tell us about your debut novel, “Tiny Glimmers of Light”! What was the initial inspiration for it?

AS: What was it like to co-author with your father? Do you have any favorite moments from writing the book that you’d like to share? ﻿

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

AS: How can readers support local authors like you? ﻿

Lioness Spotlights Local: Kevin Hwang

Local Author Spotlight: Kevin Hwang in Austin, Texas

AS: Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us about your background?

AS: Tell us about your book, The Regression Strain. What was the initial inspiration for it?

AS: Do you have any favorite moments from your novel-or writing it-that you can share with us?

AS: What is next for you in your writing career?

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?

Independent Bookstore Supports Local Authors & Community

How Independent Bookstores Support Local Authors and Communities in Austin, Texas

Why Independent Bookstores Are Vital to Local Communities

How Lioness Books Supports Local Authors and Creators

Top Events at Independent Bookstores That Boost Local Engagement

The Economic Impact of Independent Bookstores on Local Communities

How Independent Bookstores Create Unique Customer Experiences

The Role of Independent Bookstores in Supporting Local Artists

Why Supporting Independent Bookstores Matters for Your Community

How Community Engagement at Lioness Books Drives Long-Term Success

Support Local Stories and Be Part of Your Community’s Literary Future

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do independent bookstores support local authors and artists?

2. Why do Indie Bookstores' author events matter to the community?

3. What events help bookstores engage local artists?

4. How can bookstores drive community growth?

Key Takeaways

7 Must‑Read Books to Help You Understand & Appreciate Bookbinding & Book Restoration

7 Must-Read Bookbinding Books for Beginners and Restoration

7 Best Books on Bookbinding for Beginners

1. Bookbinding: A Step-by-Step Guide by Kathy Abbott

2. Making Handmade Books by Alisa Golden

3. The Art of the Fold by Hedi Kyle & Ulla Warchol

4. A Historical Sketch of Bookbinding by S.T. Prideaux

5. Book Repair and Restoration by Mitchell S. Buck

6. Introduction to Bookbinding & Custom Cases by Cindy Hollander

7. The Thames and Hudson Manual of Bookbinding by Arthur Johnson

Bookbinding Supplies You’ll See in These Books

Frequently Asked Questions About Bookbinding Books

1. What are the cheapest bookbinding books?

2. Is it legal to rebind or repair books at home?

3. What is the purpose of bookbinding?

4. Which bookbinding techniques are most beginner-friendly to learn from books?

Explore Our Bookbinding Books for Sale

Lioness Spotlights Local: Raven Vervain

Book Review: Train Dreams by Dennis Johnson

15 Classic Christmas Books of All Time You Should Be Reading Now

15 Classic Christmas Books You Should Read This Holiday Season

The Community Support That Changed Everything

The Community Support That Changed Everything

The Story Reached Beyond Leander

AS: What was it like to co-author with your father? Do you have any favorite moments from writing the book that you’d like to share?

AS: How can readers support local authors like you?