Swing Timeby Zadie SmithAn ambitious, exu-berant new novelmoving from North-West London toWest Africa, fromthe multi-award-win-ning author of WhiteTeeth and On Beauty.Two brown girlsdream of being dancers—but only one, Tracey, hastalent. The other has ideas: about rhythm and time,about black bodies and black music, what constitutesa tribe, or makes a person truly free. It’s a close butcomplicated childhood friendship that ends abruptlyin their early twenties, never to be revisited, butnever quite forgotten, either…. Penguin $27.

Moonglowby Michael ChabonBased on conversations with Chabon’s own grandfa-ther, Moonglow unfolds as a deathbed confession. Itis a tale of madness and war, of sex,marriage, and desire, of existentialdoubt and model rocketry, ofAmerican technological accom-plishment at midcentury, and,above all, of the impact and powerof keeping secrets and telling lies. Itis a portrait of the love between thenarrator’s grandfather and hisgrandmother. It is also a tour deforce of speculative autobiographyin which Chabon reveals a secrethistory of his own imagination.Harper $28.99.

Hag-Seedby Margaret AtwoodFelix is at the top of his game as Artis-tic Director of theMakeshiweg TheatreFestival. And he’s stag-ing a unique Tempestthat will further boosthis reputation. But allis lost after an act of

treachery, and Felix is exiled and brewing revenge.After twelve years, that revenge arrives in the shapeof a theatre course at a nearby prison. Here, Felixwill put on his Tempest and snare his traitors!Atwood’s novel takes on Shakespeare’s play andleads us on an interactive, illusion-ridden journeyfilled with new wonders and surprises. Hogarth $25.

Masters of Story

C TAV I A NOctavia Books’ bi-monthly newsletter for booklovers

THE

December 2016 / January 2017

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It’s nice writing toyou now as the days grow shorterand cooler. It’s afavorite time formany of us avidreaders—a timefor introversionand reflection, ofconsidering where

we are in our year and our lives, and where we’d liketo go. Though spring is considered the time of rebirthand renewal, it starts here, when we are farthest fromthe sun.

The process of selecting the books inside this newspa-per is an intimate one. We talk a lot about the powerof story being a force for world change—how thebooks we select and read make us better versions ofourselves. So to honor humanity’s rich diversity andthe commonalities we share, we’ve filled this issue withboth profound snapshots and deep explorations intothe lives of people from all walks of life. We have aspecial short story section on page 4 that will allow youto peek through the windows of all sorts of folks asthey relive memories, enjoy the holidays, experienceawakenings, or just live their lives as minorities. Theseare small bites to savor slowly.

And then dive in deep and walk a mile in the shoes ofa grandfather giving his deathbed confessional inMichael Chabon’s Moonglow; of a black nurse con-fronting white supremacists in Jodi Picoult’s SmallGreat Things; of a successful immigrant businessmanwho has just gone belly up in Jade Chang’s Wangs vs.the World. Become someone else, gain deeper perspec-tive, and connect more fully with your neighbors,whether next door or across the world.

And as always, we’ve packed these pages with morethan a single theme! You’ll find thrillers for thosechilly dark nights, cookbooks to inspire and nourish,fun YA and children’s picks, and a wide collection ofnon-fiction titles to help you explore music, science,history, social science, and more. These are gifts we’vecarefully curated for you, to inspire and entertain,inform and intrigue. Feed your mind. And then comeback to Octavia Books and tell us all about it.

Dear Booklover,

2

OCTAVIA BOOKS SCIENCE FICTION BOOK CLUBSecond Saturday at 10:30 am

Saturday, December 10, 10:30 amSarah Canaryby Karen Joy FowlerWhen Sarah Canary wanders into a railway camp in the Washingtonterritories in 1873, Chin Ah Kin is ordered by his uncle to escort “theugliest woman he could imagine” far away. But Chin soon becomesthe follower. They become separated, both resurfacing some dayslater at an insane asylum. Chin has run afoul of the law and Sarah hasbeen committed for observation. Their escape from the asylum setsinto motion a series of adventures that are at once hilarious, deeplymoving, and downright terrifying. Plume Books $16.

Saturday, January 14, 10:30 amLord of Lightby Roger ZelaznyLord of Light is a classic tale of the far future. Winner of the HugoAward—one of six Zelazny received over the course of his legendarycareer—as well as three Nebula Awards and numerous other honors,Lord of Light stands with Joe Haldeman’s The Forever War and FrankHerbert’s Dune as one of the seminal novels that changed the wayreaders looked at science fiction. NYT bestselling sci-fi author GregBear says, “Reading Zelazny is like dropping into a Mozart stringquartet as played by Thelonius Monk.” Eos $13.99.

OCTAVIA BOOKS BOOK CLUBThird Saturday at 10:30 am

d NO MEETING IN DECEMBER d

Saturday, January 21, 10:30 amName of the Roseby Umberto EcoThe year is 1327. Franciscans in a wealthy Italian abbey are suspectedof heresy, and Brother William arrives to investigate. When his mis-sion is suddenly overshadowed by seven bizarre deaths, BrotherWilliam turns detective. His tools are the logic of Aristotle, the the-ology of Aquinas, and the empirical insights of Roger Bacon allsharpened by wry humor and a ferocious curiosity. He collects evi-dence, deciphers symbols and coded manuscripts, and digs into theeerie labyrinth of the abbey. Mariner Books $15.95.

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Small Great Thingsby Jodi PicoultWith richly layered characters, Jodi Picoult tackles privilege,power, and race in her new novel. After African-Americanlabor and delivery nurse Ruth Jefferson is told that a whitesupremacist couple doesn’t want her to touch their child, thebaby goes into cardiac distress. Ruth hesitates before per-forming CPR and, as a result, is charged with a seriouscrime. Kennedy McQuarrie, a white public defender, takesher case. As the two come to develop a truer understandingof each other’s lives, they begin to doubt the beliefs theyeach hold most dear. Ballantine $28.99.

The Terranautsby T.C. BoyleAs climate change threatens the earth, four men and fourwomen dubbed the “Terranauts,” are selected to live underglass in E2, a prototype of a possible off-earth colony.Closely monitored by Mission Control, this New Eden isboth an adventure in scientific discovery and a momentouspublicity stunt. In addition to their roles as medics, farmers,biologists, and survivalists, the Terranauts must impresswatchful visitors and a skeptical media. And their mantra:“Nothing in, nothing out,” soon becomes a dangerous rally-ing cry. Ecco $26.99.

The Wangs vs. the Worldby Jade ChangCharles Wang is a brash, lovable immigrant businessman whohas just been ruined by the American financial crisis. Now hewants to get to China and reclaim his ancestral lands and hispride. Together with his kids and their stepmother, Charlesembarks on a cross-country trip to the home of his eldestdaughter. But with his son waylaid by a New Orleans temptressand his wife ready to defect for 1,000-thread-count sheets,Charles may have to choose between his family and fulfillinghis dream of starting anew. Houghton Mifflin $26.

I’ll Take You Thereby Wally LambFelix is a film scholar who runs a movie club in what wasonce a vaudeville theater. One evening, he’s confronted bythe ghost of Lois Weber, a trailblazing motion picture direc-tor from Hollywood’s silent film era. Lois invites Felix torevisit and relive scenes from his past as they are projectedonto the cinema’s big screen. In these magical movies, themedium of film becomes the lens for Felix to reflect on thewomen who profoundly impacted his life, gaining an enlight-ened understanding of the pressures that all women face.Harper $25.99.

Exciting New FictionThe Flame Bearerby Bernard CornwellThe next installment of Bernard Cornwell’s bestselling serieschronicling the epic saga of the making of England, “likeGame of Thrones, but real” (Observer, London). Britain is ina state of uneasy peace. Northumbria’s Viking ruler,Sigtryggr, and Mercia’s Saxon Queen Aethelflaed haveagreed a truce. And so England’s greatest warrior, Uhtred ofBebbanburg, at last has the chance to take back the home histraitorous uncle stole from him so many years ago and whichhis scheming cousin still occupies. Harper $27.99.

The Guineveresby Sarah DometTo four girls who have nothing, their friendship is everything.The girls are all named Guinevere—Vere, Gwen, Ginny, andWin—and it is the surprise of finding another Guinevere intheir midst that first brings them together. They come to TheSisters of the Supreme Adoration convent by different paths,and together they form the all powerful and confident TheGuineveres, bound by the extraordinary coincidence of theirnames and girded against the indignities of their plain,sequestered lives. Flatiron $25.99.

Judasby Amos OzJerusalem, 1959. Shmuel Ash, a biblical scholar, is adrift inhis young life when he finds work as a caregiver for GershomWald. There he meets Atalia Abarbanel, the daughter of adeceased Zionist leader, a beautiful, entrancing woman inher forties. Piece by piece, the old stone house, haunted bytragedy and now home to the three misfits and their intricaterelationship, reveals its secrets. At once a love story andcoming-of-age novel, an allegory for the state of Israel andfor the biblical tale from which it draws its title. HoughtonMifflin $25.

3Starred Reviews: Booklist Indie Next Kirkus Library Journal Publishers Weekly School Library Journal

We feel cold, but we don’t mind it,because we will not come to harm. And ifwe wrapped up against the cold, wewouldn’t feel other things, like the brighttingle of the stars, or the music of theAurora, or best of all the silky feeling ofmoonlight on our skin. It’s worth beingcold for that.

— Philip Pullman, The Golden Compass —

Of All That Endsby Gunter GrassThis final work of the Nobel Prize winner Gunter Grass is awitty and elegiac series of meditations on writing, growingold, and living in the world. In spite of the trials of old age,and with the end in sight, suddenly everything seems possi-ble again: love letters, soliloquies, scenes of jealousy, swansongs, social satire, and moments of happiness crowd ontothe page. Savor this moving farewell gift full of poetry, lyricprose, and drawings—a sensual, melancholy summation ofa life fully lived. Houghton Mifflin $28. Avail. 12/6

Christmas Daysby Jeanette WintersonJust in time for the Twelve Days of Christmas, NYT best-selling author Jeanette Winterson offers twelve of her bril-liantly imaginative, funny, and bold tales plus a personalstory of her own memories. From trees with mysteriouspowers to a tinsel baby that talks, philosophical fairies toflying dogs, a haunted house to a disappearing train,Winterson’s innovative stories encompass the childlike andspooky wonder of Christmas. Perfect for reading by the firewith loved ones, or while traveling home for the holidays.Grove Press $24. Avail. 12/6

Whatever Happened to Interracial Love?by Kathleen CollinsNamed one of the most anticipated books of the Fall by theHuffington Post, New York, The Boston Globe, and Lit Hub.Kathleen Collins’s collection of stories masterfully blend thequotidian and the profound, exploring race, gender, family,and sexuality issues that shape the ordinary moments in ourlives. This work seamlessly integrates the African-Americanexperience, creating full-bodied men, women, and childrenwho transcend the symbolic, penetrating both the reader’shead and heart. Ecco $15.99. Avail. 12/6

Virgin and Other Storiesby April Ayers LawsonSet in the American South—a world both secular anddevoutly Christian—April Lawson’s stories mine the innerlives of women and men navigating sexual, emotional, andspiritual awakenings. Nodding to the Southern Gothic,Lawson unravels the imperatives of sex and love, of viola-tion and trust, eyeing what happens when we succumb totemptation. Discover why Virgin made New York Magazine’s“45 New Books to Read This Fall,” and Huffington Post’s“20 New Books You’ll Need For Your Shelf in Fall 2016.”Farrar, Straus, and Giroux $23.

Short Stories Thrillers for Chilly Nights

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IQby Joe IdeEast Long Beach. The LAPD is barely keeping up with theneighborhood’s high crime rate. But IQ has taken it uponhimself to help solve the cases the police can’t or won’t touch.He’s a loner and a high school dropout, his unassuming naturedisguising a relentless determination and a fierce intelligence.He charges his clients whatever they can afford. To get by, healso takes on clients that can pay. This time, it’s a rap mogulwhose life is in danger. And the deeper Isaiah digs, the moredangerous the case becomes. Mulholland $26.

Night Schoolby Lee ChildIt’s 1996, and Reacher is still in the army. In the morning theygive him a medal, and in the afternoon they send him back toschool. An FBI agent and a CIA analyst are also in the class-room, and each is wondering why. Then they learn: a Jihadistsleeper cell in Germany has received a visitor—a Saudi couri-er, seeking safe haven while waiting to rendezvous with per-sons unknown. A CIA asset has overheard the courier whis-per a chilling message: The American wants a hundred milliondollars. For what? And who from? Delacorte $28.99.

His Bloody Projectby Graeme BurnetMan Booker Prize Shortlist Finalist! A brutal triple murder in aremote Scottish farming community in 1869 leads to the arrestof seventeen-year-old Roderick Macrae. There is no questionof Macrae’s guilt. But why would a shy and intelligent boy godown this bloody path? The story is presented as a collectionof documents, including police statements, Macrae’s memoirs,medical reports, psychological evaluations, a courtroom tran-script, and more that throw both Macrae’s motive and his san-ity into question. Skyhorse $24.99

A Gambler’s Anatomyby Jonathan LethemThe author of Motherless Brooklyn returns with a devilishlyentertaining novel about an international backgammon hus-tler who thinks he’s psychic. Bruno Alexander travels theworld winning large sums of money off amateur gamers. Buthis luck begins to go sour, and he develops a tumor on hisface. With this diagnosis and depleted funds, Bruno agrees toexperimental surgery. There, Bruno confronts two existentialquestions: Is the gambler being played by life? And what ifyou’re telepathic but it does you no good? Doubleday $27.95.

Hot New Picks in YAKids of Appetiteby David ArnoldThe acclaimed author of Mosquitoland brings us anotherbatch of unforgettable characters in this tragicomedyabout first love and devastating loss. Victor Benucci andMadeline Falco have a story. It begins with the death ofVic’s father. It ends with the murder of Mad’s uncle. TheHackensack Police Department wants to hear it. But to telltheir story, Vic and Mad must focus on the chapters inbetween, spinning a tale that includes the scattering ofashes; a submarine; an escape from a war-torn country;and falling in love. Viking Books for YR $18.99.

The Stranger Gameby Cylin BusbyWhen Nico Morris’s older sister mysteriously disappears,she secretly feels relief at being free of Sarah’s daily cruel-ties. But four years later, Sarah is found, and greatlychanged. She’s thin when Sarah had been athletic; timidinstead of brash; and kind when she had been abusive.Sarah’s retrograde amnesia has caused her to forget almosteverything about her life. But the dark details of her disap-pearance continue to haunt Nico, and it becomes clear thatmore than one person knows the truth. Balzer & Bray/HarperTeen $17.99.

Aerieby Maria Dahvana HeadleyAza Ray is back on earth after spending the past yeardying, waking up on a sky ship, and discovering that hersong could change the world. When her boyfriend Jason’sparanoia causes him to make a terrible mistake, Aza findsherself a fugitive in Magonia, opposing her bloodthirstymother and her singing partner. There, she goes in searchof a weapon in a journey that will transform her forever.Told in Headley’s John-Green-meets-Neil-Gaiman voice,Aerie will satisfy the many readers who can’t wait to returnto Magonia. Harper $17.99.

The Diabolicby S.J. KincaidNemesis is a Diabolic, a humanoid teenager created toprotect Sidonia, a galactic senator’s daughter. Nemesis istrained to give her life for Sidonia, taking as many lives asnecessary to keep her safe. When Sidonia is taken as apolitical hostage, Nemesis travels to the court disguised asSidonia—a killing machine masquerading in a world ofcorrupt politicians. But as the Empire begins to fractureand rebellion looms, Nemesis finds in herself a humanitythat might be the thing that saves her life and the empire.Simon & Schuster for YR $17.99.

Heartlessby Marissa MeyerLong before she was the terrifying Queen of Hearts,Catherine was just a girl. She may be a favorite of theunmarried King of Hearts, but all she wants is to open abakery with her best friend. Then Cath meets Jest, thehandsome court joker, and they have a secret courtship.Cath is determined to define her own destiny and fall inlove on her terms. But in a land of magic, madness, andmonsters, fate has other plans. In her first stand-alone teennovel, Meyer dazzles us with a prequel to Alice’s Adventuresin Wonderland. Feiwel and Friends $19.99.

The Midnight Starby Marie LuThe thrilling finale to the NYT bestselling Young Elitesseries! Adelina Amouteru is done suffering. She’s turnedher back on those who have betrayed her and achieved theultimate revenge: victory. Her reign as the White Wolf hasbeen triumphant, but with each conquest her cruelty onlygrows. The darkness within her has begun to spiral out ofcontrol, threatening to destroy all she’s gained. When a newdanger appears, Adelina’s forced to revisit old wounds, put-ting not only herself at risk, but every Elite. G.P. Putnam’sSons BYR $18.99.

Frozen Charlotteby Alex BellWhen her best friend dies under mysterious circumstances,Sophie visits her cousins on the remote Isle of Skye. It’sbeen years since she saw them—brooding Cameron; perfectPiper; and peculiar Lilias with her fear of bones. Sophie issurprised by the strange rules the family now lives by: Makeno mention of Cameron’s accident. Never leave the frontgate unlocked. And don’t speak of the sister whose deathmight have closer ties to Sophie’s past—and more sinisterconsequences for her future—than she ever knew.Scholastic $18.99.

Spindleby E. K. JohnstonIt has been generations since the Storyteller Queen drovethe demon out of her husband and saved her country. Herfamily has prospered, and the demons have been impris-oned. But the prison is crumbling, and a demon hasregained her power. When a princess is born, the demon isready with a curse that will cost the princess her soul, orforce her to destroy her people to save her life. The threadsof magic bind princess and exiled spinners into a plot tobreak the curse before the demon can become queen.Disney-Hyperion $18.99. Avail. 12/6

5Starred Reviews: Booklist Indie Next Kirkus Library Journal Publishers Weekly School Library Journal

The Bear Who Wasn’t Thereby LeUyen PhamThis book is about Bear… so what happens when he doesn’tshow up on his page? Who will find him? Will it be Giraffe,or Cow, or perhaps even the author herself? One thing’s for sure—it probably won’t be Duck. Duck doesn’t seemconcerned that Bear is missing. In fact, he seems to be trying to steal the show for himself! He even disguises him-self as Bear in an attempt to fool the reader. But after pagesand pages of Duck’s antics and search-party chaos, Bearappears somewhere utterly unexpected. Roaring Brook$16.99. Ages 3-6.

Nanette’s Baguetteby Mo WillemsToday is the day Nanette gets to get the baguette! Isshe set? YOU BET! Mo Willems’ hilarious new pic-ture book follows our plucky heroine on her first bigsolo trip to the bakery. But will Nanette get thebaguette from baker Juliette? Or will Nanette soon bebeset with regret? Set in a meticulously handcrafted-paper-modeled French village, the uniquely vibrantlaugh-out-loud world of Nanette’s Baguette may beMo’s best creation yet. Get set to krack into an irre-sistible tale you won’t soon forget! Disney-Hyperion$17.99. Ages 3-6.

How to Find a Foxby Nilah MagruderEquipped with a camera and determination, a lit-tle girl sets out to track down an elusive red fox.But foxes are sneaky, and it proves more difficultthan she thought. Nilah Magruder’s debut pic-ture book charmingly tells the story of what itmeans to not give up and how sometimes whatyou’re looking for is closer than you think.Magruder is an award-winning writer, illustrator,and storyboard artist. She has illustrated forcomics, children’s books, film, and television aswell as Disney and DreamWorks. Feiwel andFriends $16.99. Ages 4-7.

We Found a Hatby Jon KlassenHold on to your hats for the conclusion of the celebrated hattrilogy by Caldecott Medalist Jon Klassen, who gives hisdeadpan finale a surprising new twist. Two turtles havefound a hat. The hat looks good on both of them. But thereare two turtles. And there is only one hat…. Evoking hilarityand sympathy, the shifting eyes tell the tale in this brilliantlypaced story in three parts, highlighting Klassen’s visual com-edy and deceptive simplicity. The delicious buildup takes anunexpected turn that is sure to please. Candlewick $17.99.Ages 4-8.

Cara’s Kindnessby Kristi YamaguchiCara the Cat is picking a song for her new ice-skat-ing routine. But when a friend in need turns up atthe rink, Cara drops everything to lend a helpinghand. All she asks is that he pay it forward! Beforelong, Cara’s kindness is passed all around, andmight even make its way back home! As founderof the Always Dream Foundation, ice-skatingOlympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi helpspromote early childhood literacy. Through hernewest picture book, Kristi inspires children of allages to pay it forward. Sourcebooks Jaberwocky$16.99. Ages 4-8.

Wonderful Winterby Bruce GoldstoneWinter is a season of wondering and waiting. We won-der why some trees lose their leaves while others staygreen all winter long. We wait for the first snowfall andthen wonder at how amazing each snowflake is. Wewonder how animals manage to live in the cold. Andwe can’t wait to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, andKwanzaa. With vivid photographs, lively explanations,and creative craft ideas, Bruce Goldstone presents allthe fascinating facts that make winter so wonderful!Henry Holt & Co. $17.99. Ages 5-8.

Walk This World atChristmastimeillus. by Debbie PowellA book. An Advent calendar. A perfectChristmas gift. Let’s take a stroll aroundthe world, to all four corners of the globe.Peek through windows, open doors, watchas Christmastime unfolds…. A collectionof global cultures, Walk This World atChristmastime illustrates the ways peoplearound the world celebrate the holiday.Travel to a new set of countries withevery turn of the page. Lift the num-bered flaps for all the fun of an Adventcalendar in a format to be read again andagain. Big Picture Press $17.99. Ages 5-8.

Hotel Bruceby Ryan HigginsWhen Bruce gets home from a southernmigration trip with his goslings, he istired, grumpy, and not prepared to sharehis home with the mice who have turnedhis den into a hotel. There’s a possumpillow fight in one room, a fox luringguests into a stew in the kitchen, and a crew of critters hogging the bed. Bruce triesto throw them all out, but the entrepreneurial mice can’t take a hint. And then thegoslings join the staff! Will this grumpy bear ever get his quiet den back to himself?Disney-Hyperion $17.99. Ages 5-8.

Tales for Tots

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The Bone Sparrowby Zana FraillonSubhi is a refugee, born in an Australian detention centerafter his mother and sister fled the violence of a distanthomeland; the center is the only world he knows. Untilone day Subhi sees a scruffy girl named Jimmie on theother side of the wire, who appears with a notebook writ-ten by her lost mother. Unable to read it, Jimmie asks forSubhi’s help. Subhi and Jimmie might both find comfort—and maybe even freedom—as their tales unfold. But notuntil each make brave choices that could change every-thing. Disney-Hyperion $16.99. Ages 10-13.

The Inquisitor’s Taleby Adam Gidwitz1242. On a dark night, travelers from across France stop atan inn and tell stories of three children: William, an oblateon a mission from his monastery; Jacob, a Jewish boy whohas fled his burning village; and Jeanne, a peasant girl whohides her prophetic visions. They are accompanied byJeanne’s greyhound, Gwenforte… brought back from thedead. Told in a style reminiscent of The Canterbury Tales,our narrator collects their stories into a grand saga ofthree unlikely allies. Beautifully illustrated! Dutton Booksfor YR $17.99. Ages 10+.

Blood Red Snow Whiteby Marcus SedgwickWhen British writer Arthur Ransome moves to Russia towork as a journalist, he has little idea of the violent revo-lution about to erupt. Unwittingly, he finds himself at itscenter, tapped by the British to report back on theBolsheviks and dangerously, romantically entangled withTrotsky’s personal secretary. Arthur wants only to elopefar with his beloved, but her Russian ties make leaving thecountry nearly impossible. And the more Arthur resistsbecoming a pawn, the more entrenched in the game hebecomes. Roaring Brook $17.99. Ages 12-18.

The Readerby Traci CheeAfter Sefia’s father is brutally murdered, she flees into thewilderness with her aunt Nin, who teaches her to hunt,track, and steal. But Nin is kidnapped, and Sefia’s onlyclue to both her aunt’s disappearance and her father’smurder is the odd rectangular object her father leftbehind—a book—a marvelous item unheard of in her illit-erate society. With the help of this book and a mysteriousstranger, Sefia sets out to rescue her aunt and find outwhat really happened the day her father was killed. G.P.Putnam’s Sons Books for YR $19.99. Ages 12+.

Kids, Tweens, and TeensGertie’s Leap to Greatnessby Kate Beasley“Meet the new Ramona Quimby!”—Entertainment Weekly.Gertie Reece Foy is 100% awesome. She has a daddy whoworks on an oil rig, a bargain-shopping great-aunt, andtwo best friends. So when her absent mother decides tomove away from their town, Gertie sets out on her greatestmission yet: becoming the best fifth grader in the universeto show her mother exactly what she’ll be leaving behind.There’s just one problem: Seat-stealing new girl Mary Suewants to be the best fifth grader, too. Farrar, Straus, andGiroux $16.99. Ages 8-12.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Themby J.K. RowlingWhen Magizoologist Newt Scamander arrives in NewYork, he intends his stay to be a brief stopover. However,when his magical case is misplaced and some of Newt’sfantastic beasts escape, it spells trouble…. Inspired by theoriginal Hogwarts textbook by Newt Scamander, FantasticBeasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplaymarks the screenwriting debut of J.K. Rowling. A feat ofimagination showcasing a cast of remarkable characters,this is epic, adventure-packed storytelling at its very best.Arthur A. Levine $24.99. Ages 8+.

The Boy Who Knew Too Muchby Commander S. T. Bolivar, IIIMattie Larimore used to be the good son—compared tohis brother, Carter, at least. But then he stole a train andwas sent to reform school, Munchem Academy. The kidsat Munchem are terrifying, and the whole place is just a lit-tle off. And when Headmaster Rooney’s plan for dealingwith problem students turns to Carter, Mattie, Eliot, andCaroline band together to save him and the other stu-dents. Suddenly Mattie must find his inner hero. Andthat’s how the world’s greatest thief got his start. Disney-Hyperion $16.99. Ages 9-12.

Dork Diaries 11by Rachel Ren RussellNikki and her friends Brandon, Chloe, and Zoey are upfor another adventure in Dork Diaries 11: Tales from a Not-so-Friendly Frenemy! This book is the latest edition in the#1 NYT bestselling series that chronicles the fabulous lifeof Nikki Maxwell as she navigates the halls of middleschool, mean girls, BFF drama, and first crushes. Theseries has received two Children’s Choice Awards ForBook of the Year, and has sold over 20 million copies withtranslation into 34 languages worldwide. Come join thefun! Aladdin $13.99. Ages 9-13.

Starred Reviews: Booklist Indie Next Kirkus Library Journal Publishers Weekly School Library Journal 7

Big Magicby Elizabeth GilbertReaders of all ages and walks of life have drawn inspiration and empowermentfrom Elizabeth Gilbert’s books for years. Now this beloved author digs into herown generative process to share her wisdom and unique perspective about creativ-ity. With profound empathy and generosity, she offers potent insights into the mys-terious nature of inspiration. Balancing between soulful spirituality and cheerfulpragmatism, Gilbert encourages us to uncover the strange jewels that are hiddenwithin each of us. Riverhead $16.

The Swans of Fifth Avenueby Melanie BenjaminOf all the glamorous stars of New York high society, none blazes brighter thanBabe Paley. But beneath this elegantly composed exterior dwells a passionatewoman desperately longing for true love and connection. Enter Truman Capote.This diminutive golden-haired genius with a larger-than-life personality explodesonto the scene, setting Babe and her circle of Swans aflutter. Sure of the loyalty ofthe man she calls True Heart, Babe never imagines the destruction Truman willleave in his wake. Bantam $16.

The Muralistby B. A. ShapiroWhen American painter Alizee Benoit vanishes in New York City in 1940, no oneknows what happened to her. Not her Jewish family living in German-occupiedFrance, her artistic patron Eleanor Roosevelt, nor her friends, including MarkRothko, Jackson Pollock, and Lee Krasner. And, some seventy years later, not hergreat-niece, who while working at an auction house uncovers paintings hiddenbehind works by those now-famous Abstract Expressionists. Do they hold answersto the mystery of her missing aunt? Algonquin $15.95.

Fates and Furiesby Lauren GroffAt age twenty-two, Lotto and Mathilde are tall, glamorous, madly in love, and des-tined for greatness. A decade later, their marriage is still the envy of their friends,but with an electric thrill we understand that things are more remarkable than theyhave seemed. With stunning revelations and multiple threads, Groff delivers a sat-isfying novel about love, art, creativity, and power that is unlike anything that hascome before it. Profound, surprising, propulsive, and emotionally riveting, it stirsboth the mind and the heart. Riverhead $16.

The Guest Roomby Chris BohjalianWhen Kristin Chapman agrees to let her husband, Richard, host his brother’sbachelor party, she expects a certain amount of debauchery. She takes their youngdaughter to Manhattan for the evening, leaving her Westchester home to the menand their hired entertainment. What she does not expect is that the entertain-ment—two scared young women brought there by force—will kill their captors anddrive off into the night. With their house now a crime scene, Kristin’s and Richard’slife spirals into nightmare. Vintage $16.

The Road to Little Dribblingby Bill BrysonIn 1995, Iowa native Bill Bryson took a motoring trip around Britain. The uproar-ious book that resulted, Notes from a Small Island, is one of the most acute portray-als of the United Kingdom. 20 years later, Bryson—now a British citizen—set outto rediscover his adopted country. In these pages, he travels across the island,showing us every pub, stone village, and human foible along the way. Irreverent,endearing, and hilarious, The Road to Little Dribbling is filled with Bryson’s deepknowledge and love of his chosen home. Anchor $16.

Pacificby Simon WinchesterAs the Mediterranean shaped the classical world, and the Atlantic connectedEurope to the New World, the Pacific defines our tomorrow. With China on therise, so are the American cities of the West coast. In Pacific: Silicon Chips andSurfboards, Coral Reefs and Atom Bombs, Brutal Dictators and Fading EmpiresWinchester calls upon his many journeys throughout the Pacific, his formidable his-torical understanding, and his singular talent for storytelling in a paean to this mag-nificent sea of beauty and myth. Harper Perennial $16.99.

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New in Paperback

It is the life of the crystal, the architect

of the flake, the fire of the frost,

the soul of the sunbeam.

This crisp winter air is full of it.

— John Burroughs, Winter Sunshine —

Fascinating Lives Clever CookingMy Own Wordsby Ruth Bader GinsburgThis is the first book from Ruth Bader Ginsburg sincebecoming a Supreme Court Justice in 1993—a witty, engag-ing, serious, and playful collection of writings from thewoman who has had a powerful influence on law, women’srights, and popular culture. In My Own Words, JusticeGinsburg explores topics including gender equality, theSupreme Court, being Jewish, opera, and the value of look-ing beyond US shores when interpreting the USConstitution. A fascinating glimpse of one of America’smost influential women. Simon & Schuster $30.

George Lucasby Brian Jay JonesOn May 25, 1977, a problem-plagued, budget-straining,independent sci-fi film opened in a mere thirty-twoAmerican movie theatres. Written and directed by GeorgeLucas, Star Wars reinvented the cinematic landscape. Hefollowed this success with another blockbuster series,Indiana Jones, revolutionizing the world of special effectsand sound systems. Lucas is one of the most influential film-makers of the past fifty years, and his life is now brilliantlyexplored in George Lucas: A Life. Little Brown & Co. $32.Avail. 12/6

River of Timeby Naomi JuddThe world knows Naomi Judd as a successful country musicstar. What the world doesn’t know—until now—is that afterher 2011 tour, Naomi fell into a terrifying depression, facingsevere panic attacks, PTSD, toxic drug poisoning, andaddiction. She spent the next two and a half years in psychi-atric hospitals searching for answers. In River of Time: MyDescent Into Depression and How I Emerged with Hope,Naomi shares her message of hope after surviving the mostpainful period in her life. Center Street $27. Avail. 12/6

Sometimes Brilliantby Larry BrilliantIn 1963, radical doctor Larry Brilliant followed the hippietrail to India where he was told that his destiny was to helperadicate smallpox. He would never have believed he wouldbe a key player in eliminating a disease that killed more thanhalf a billion people in the 20th century alone. His unlikelytrajectory, chronicled in Sometimes Brilliant: The ImpossibleAdventure of a Spiritual Seeker and Visionary Physician WhoHelped Conquer the Worst Disease in History, is a riveting epi-demiological adventure and moving memoir. Harper One$27.99.

First Biteby Bee WilsonIn First Bite: How We Learn to Eat, Bee Wilson draws onthe latest research to reveal that our food habits areshaped by a host of factors: family and culture, memoryand gender, hunger and love. Wilson introduces us topeople who can only eat foods of a certain color, ananosmia sufferer who has no memory of the flavor ofher mother’s cooking, and researchers who have pio-neered new ways to persuade children to try new vegeta-bles. First Bite shows us how we can change our palatesto lead healthier, happier lives. Basic $16.99.

Appetites: A Cookbookby Anthony BourdainAnthony Bourdain has made a profession of under-standing the appetites of others, first as a chef, lateras a world-traveling chronicler of food and cultureon his CNN series Parts Unknown. But these days, ifhe’s cooking, it’s for family and friends. Appetitesboils down forty-plus years of professional cookingand globe-trotting to a tight repertoire of personalfavorites. The result is a unique home-cooking,home-entertaining cookbook/battle plan that willhelp you terrify your guests with your breathtakingefficiency. Ecco $37.50.

The Whole30 Cookbookby Melissa HartwigThe groundbreaking Whole30 program hashelped countless people transform their lives bybringing them better sleep, more energy, fewercravings, weight loss, and healthy habits that lasta lifetime. In this cookbook, Melissa Hartwigdelivers over 150 all-new recipes to help readersprepare delicious, healthy meals during theirWhole30 and beyond. Whether you’ve done theprogram once or five times or just want to makea variety of satisfying, nourishing meals, thisbook will inspire. Houghton Mifflin $30. Avail. 12/6

9Starred Reviews: Booklist Indie Next Kirkus Library Journal Publishers Weekly School Library Journal

Only in the winter, in the country,

can you have longer,

quiet stretches when you can savor

belonging to yourself.

— Ruth Stout —

Atlas Obscuraby Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras, and Ella MortonInspiring equal parts wonder and wanderlust, Atlas Obscura:An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders celebratesover 700 of the most curious places in the world. Talk aboutnatural wonders—the dazzling glowworm caves in NewZealand, or a baobob tree in South Africa that’s so large it hasa pub inside! This guide revels in the weird and the over-looked, the hidden and the mysterious. Packed with photo-graphs, charts, and maps, is will be as appealing to the arm-chair traveler as the die-hard adventurer. Workman $35.

Against Empathyby Paul BloomWe often think that the more empathy we have, the betterwe’re off. But Yale researcher Paul Bloom argues that someof the worst decisions made by individuals and nations areoften motivated by honest, yet misplaced, emotions. Withoutempathy, Bloom insists, our decisions would be clearer, fair-er, and more moral. Urgent and humane, Against Empathy:The Case for Rational Compassion shows us that, for both bigand small decisions, limiting empathy is often the most com-passionate choice we can make. Ecco $26.99 Avail. 12/6

The Liberal Redneck Manifestoby Trae Crowder, Corey Ryan Forrester, & Drew MorganThe Liberal Rednecks—a three-man political satire comedygroup—celebrate all that’s good about the South while lead-ing the Redneck Revolution and standing blue in a sea of red.Perfect for fans of I Am America (And So Can You), TheLiberal Redneck Manifesto: Draggin’ Dixie Outta the Darkskewers political and religious hypocrisies. While celebratingthe rich culture of the South, this book issues a wake-up calland a reminder that the South’s problems and dreams aren’tthat far off from the rest of America’s. Atria $25.

Speaking Americanby Josh KatzDid you know that your answers to a handful ofquestions can reveal where you grew up? In 2013,Josh Katz released a dialect quiz in the New YorkTimes that became the most viewed page in thepaper’s history. Now, Katz has harnessed the over-whelming response to that quiz to create SpeakingAmerican, a fascinating tour through the Americanvernacular. How do you pronounce “pecan”? Doyou cut the grass or mow the lawn? The answers tothese questions are windows into our nation,regions, and language. Houghton Mifflin $25.

Understanding Our WorldThe Glass Universeby Dava SobelIn the mid-1800s, the Harvard College Observatory beganemploying women as human computers to interpret theobservations made by their male counterparts each night.As photography transformed astronomy, the ladies beganstudying the stars captured on glass photographic plates,making ground-breaking discoveries. The Glass Universe:How the Ladies of the Harvard Observatory Took theMeasure of the Stars is the history of this remarkable groupof women who overcame extreme gender bias. Viking $30.Avail. 12/6

Anatomy of a Songby Marc MyersEvery great song has a fascinating backstory. Based on theongoing Wall Street Journal column, Anatomy of a Song: TheOral History of 45 Iconic Hits That Changed Rock, R&B andPop, brings to life five decades of music through oral histo-ries of forty-five transformative songs woven from inter-views with the artists who created them. Among others,Myers includes the Isley Brothers’ “Shout,” Led Zeppelin’s“Whole Lotta Love,” Janis Joplin’s “Mercedes Benz,” andR.E.M’s “Losing My Religion.” Grove Press $26.

The General vs. the Presidentby H.W. BrandsThe General vs. the President: MacArthur and Truman at theBrink of Nuclear War examines how President Truman andGeneral MacArthur decided America’s future afterWWII. When Truman was asked about the possible use ofatomic weapons, he replied, “The military commander inthe field will have charge of the use of the weapons, as healways has.” This suggested MacArthur had his finger onthe trigger. A correction followed, but too late: two dis-tinct visions were laid bare, and one man would have tomake way. Doubleday $30.

Ancient Worldsby Michael Scott2,500 years ago, world civilizations entered a revolution-ary era that laid the foundation for our world today.Radical new forms of government emerged; mighty warswere fought; and new faiths were ruthlessly employed tounify empires. In Ancient Worlds: A Global History ofAntiquity, historian Michael Scott presents a gripping nar-rative of this unique age, showing how diverse societiesresponded to similar pressures and how they influencedone another, revealing new truths about our commonhuman heritage. Basic $29.99.

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11Starred Reviews: Booklist Indie Next Kirkus Library Journal Publishers Weekly School Library Journal

LOCAL FLAVORSGhosts of Good Timesby Philip GouldGhosts of Good Times:South Louisiana DanceHalls Past and Present

examines a world of Cajun dance halls, Zydecoclubs, Chitlin Circuit R&B night clubs, Swamp-Pop Honkytonks and other venues that at onetime were prevalent throughout the region.Photographs by Philip Gould blend architectur-al imagery of buildings still standing with his-toric photographs of the clubs that he took intheir heyday. This rich book explores both clubsfrom the past and the dance hall scene today. U of Louisiana at Lafayette Press $30.

Big BadBreakfast: The MostImportant Book of the Dayby John CurrenceJohn Currence is one ofthe most celebrated chefs

in the South. Among his string of highly suc-cessful restaurants in Mississippi, Big BadBreakfast holds a special place in diners’ hearts:it is a gathering place where people cometogether to share the most important meal ofthe day. Big Bad Breakfast: The Most ImportantBook of the Day is full of delicious recipes, sto-ries of the wonderful characters who fill therestaurant every morning, and a meditation onthe significance of the Southern breakfast. TenSpeed Press $30.

Law & Desireby Michael Allen ZellIn Law & Desire, the secondbook in the acclaimed BobbyDelery crime fiction series,Zell continues to peel backthe mean streets of NewOrleans. The parallel storiesof recently-returned BobbyDelery’s quest to find out

what happened to his family and a city council-man’s unorthodox way of fundraising end upmeeting sharply in a climax that touches onrace, history, and corruption. A rapidly chang-ing yet tradition-bound New Orleans is the fer-tile setting for the book’s vibrant characters.Lavender Ink $14.95.

Expressions of Place: The Contemporary Louisiana Landscapeby John R KempExpressions of Place embarks on ajourney across Louisiana rural andurban landscapes via the talents of

thirty-seven artists. Many are professionals with regionaland national recognition. Others have found their follow-ings closer to home. All, however, explore the land withartistic styles that range from traditional to the symbolicand abstract. Rather than stand as a catalog of the visualarts in Louisiana, Kemp’s book is a celebration of thestate’s landscape in the work of accomplished artists.UPress of Mississippi $40.

Snowball Rainbowby Grace MillsapsFrom the author of What the SleepyAnimals Do at the Audubon Zoocomes Snowball Rainbow: A NewOrleans Color Book, a heartwarmingboard book that introduces the colorsthrough New Orleans’ favorite sum-

mer treat. Board book $11.95. Ages 0-3

Simon of New Orleansby Yvonne PerretSimon of New Orleans is a celebrationof the exuberant work of the Artistsynonymous with his adopted home-town. It’s difficult to wander aroundNew Orleans without stumblingacross the explosions of color and

whimsy that are the trademarks of a Simon piece. In fact,the scope of his work is unparalleled. Private collectorssnap up pieces as soon as the paint is dry. Simon hasendeared himself to locals and tourists alike, and they haveresponded to the unpretentious wit that is the hallmark ofhis art. River Road Press $45.

Fred the New Orleans Drummer Boyby Fred LeBlancFred LeBlanc, the lead singer and drum-mer of Cowboy Mouth, the NewOrleans-based band that reachednational fame with its rowdy rock-n-roll

spirit and catchy songs, infuses a bit of himself and hisbandmates into the characters of Fred and his friends in hisdebut children’s book. Explore the City of New Orleansand its music with young Fred and his friends. Then gobehind the scenes as Fred LeBlanc shares the personalstory of how music has inspired and shaped this real-lifeNew Orleans drummer boy. River Road Press $17.99.

KAREN MARIEMONINGFeversongBOOK LAUNCH Sunday, January 15, 20179 amLocation: Hotel Monteleone,214 Royal St.#1 NYT bestselling author

Karen Marie Moning returns to New Orleans tocelebrate her hotly anticipated new novel,Feversong—the conclusion to the epic Fever series.To attend, you must purchase Feversong throughOctavia Books. Books will distributed at the hotelon the morning of January 15 beginning at 9 am.The order in which you pick up your copies of thebook will determine the your order of entranceinto the hotel ballroom. Delacorte $28.

LYDIA PEELLEThe Midnight CoolTuesday, January 17, 20176 pmSet in Tennessee in 1916, onthe cusp of U.S. involvementin WWI, The Midnight Coolis a powerful and hauntingstory of two flawed butendearing grifters who pur-

sue women, wealth, and a surprisingly valuablecommodity for the troops in Europe—mules.Lydia will be joined by her husband Ketch Secor,of the two-time Grammy Award winning groupOld Crow Medicine Show. He will perform songsof the era. Harper $26.99. Avail. 1/10/17

TIM GAUTREAUXSignalsMonday, January 23, 20176 pmAfter the stunning historicalnovels The Clearing and TheMissing, Tim Gautreaux nowexplores contemporary lifewith twelve new stories andeight from previous collec-

tions. Most are set in Louisiana, others in NorthCarolina and even in midwinter Minnesota. Butgenerally it’s heat, humidity, and bugs that besethis people as they wrestle with affairs of the heart,matters of faith, and the pros and cons of tight-knitcommunities. Knopf $26.95.

— continued from back page —Upcoming Events at Octavia Books

POLAR EXPRESS PARTYSunday, December 4, 11:30 amWho doesn’t love The Polar Express? Join us for story time,games, and a reindeer craft! Win some prizes.

LIOR LEV SERCARZThe Spice CompanionMonday, December 5, 6 pm – 8 pmTickets are $10 and count as $5 toward the purchase ofthe book. Join the renowned spice expert and founder ofLa Boîte for an interactive presentation on his new bookThe Spice Companion: A Guide to the World of Spices,including a discussion on sourcing and blending, a livedemo of a spice blend from the book, and a jar of the

blend to take home. Also sample Tripel Burner, his latest collaboration withBrooklyn Brewery. Clarkson Potter $40.

LORI NICHOLSMaple & Willow’s Christmas TreeTuesday, December 6, 3:30 pmMaple and Willow love trees—and now they are gettingtheir first real Christmas tree! After a snowy expedition topick out the perfect tree, it’s time to decorate. But when-ever Maple gets near the tree, she starts sneezing. Couldshe really be allergic to the perfect Christmas tree? And if

so, how will the girls find a way to make this the best Christmas after all? We’re soexcited to welcome Lori Nichols! Nancy Paulsen Books $16.99. Ages 3-5.

MICHAEL TISSERANDKrazy: George Herriman, A Life in Black and WhiteBOOK LAUNCHTuesday, December 6, 6 pmGeorge Herriman was one of the most influential people tocome from New Orleans; his “Krazy Kat” cartoons are cred-ited with helping to shape modern culture. Yet he held a pri-vate secret: Herriman was African American, born to aCreole family that hid its racial identity. Now Michael

Tisserand brings us his story—of race, identity, and the historic reverberationsfrom the cultural stew that was 19th century New Orleans. Harper $35.

HARVEY J. LEWISA Legacy Preserved: Contemporary Louisiana Decoy CarversSaturday, December 17, NoonAlongside Louisiana’s wildfowl hunting tradition,there has also developed an artistic legacy carried onby the state’s wildfowl decoy carvers. But the work of

these master artists goes largely unrecognized. This book aims to change that byshowcasing eighteen of Louisiana’s finest carvers and celebrating the craft’s his-tory. Welcome Harvey J. Lewis who has collected both antique and contempo-rary decoys for over forty years. U of Louisiana at Lafayette Press $35.

INDIES FIRST / SMALL BUSINESSSATURDAYSaturday, November 26On hand for our Small Business Saturday/Indies First cele-bration, we’ll have a whole host of local authors who are

putting “indies first” by volunteering as our front-line booksellers for the day.Stop by and ask them what books they recommend. And pick up some signedbooks for a loved one. We’re so excited to welcome this line-up of great authors:9-11 am Whitney Stewart (A Catfish Tale, Feldpost), Louis J. Schmitt (WhatMakes New Orleans Special?); 11 am-1 pm Yvonne Spear Perret and Paul Perret(Simon of New Orleans), Joy Williams (Olivia and the Land of Extra-Ordinary),Grace Millsaps (Snowball Rainbow); 1-3 pm John Pope (Getting Off on ElysianFields), Morgan Molthrop (Jean Lafitte’s Pirate Code), 3-5pm Jami Attenburg(Saint Mazie), Katy Simpson Smith (Free Men).

CHRIS TUSAIn the City of Fallen StarsMonday, November 28, 6 pmDead birds are falling out of the New Orleans sky, sparkingtheories of unsafe air, poison, climate change, terrorism, dis-ease, and mold spores from Katrina. Maurice Delahoussayefears the government is hiding something, and when he haspremonitions that his wife is pregnant with Jesus Christ, hebecomes convinced the birds are a sign from God. WelcomeChris Tusa as he examines post 9/11 paranoia and the scars

of Katrina in this tragicomedy. Livingston $30.

BILL LASCHEREve of a Hundred MidnightsWednesday, November 30, 7 pmLocation: New Orleans JCC, 5342 St. Charles Ave.In 1941, newly married journalists Mel and Annalee Jacobyfound themselves fleeing Japanese bombers from Manila toisland outposts, continuing to cover the war while runningfor their lives. Bringing to light their personal and profes-sional stories, Eve of a Hundred Midnights: The Star-Crossed

Love Story of Two WWII Correspondents and Their Epic Escape Across the Pacificis a tale of adventure and enduring romance. William Morrow $26.99.

GEORGE GRAHAMAcadiana Table Saturday, December 3, 10 amIn this beautiful regional cookbook, Louisiana nativeGeorge Graham shares his love of Cajun and Creolecooking. Filled with standard Louisiana dishes, he alsoincludes new recipes, techniques, and an explorationinto the culture, geography, and history of the area.Harvard Common $30. Octavia Books will also be withthe author at the Saturday Crescent City FarmersMarket at 750 Carondelet St. (at Julia St.) onDecember 10, from 8:30–10:30 am.

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