July 2022 Staff Picks

Updated 2022/07/15

David’s Pick: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

This lovely duo of books tells the story of angry loner Aristotle and mellow bookworm Dante, two Mexican American teens who form an unlikely alliance and move on to a deep friendship and love. The story is not without heartache and pain but is ultimately positive without falling into clichés.

David’s Pick: Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Natalie’s Pick: The Truffle Hunters (DVD)

This gorgeous documentary by Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw is set in the forests of Piedmont, Italy and is a kind of love story between alba truffle hunters and their dogs who lead them to culinary treasure. Mushrooms get their moment of glory and reverence, but the film is primarily about eccentric individuals and their obsessions. The documentary is described as “Unique and delightful. A feast for the eyes and nourishment for the soul.” I also appreciated the fact that truffle hunting has eluded mass cultivation, and we are dependent on foragers and their furry companions to discover.

Natalie’s Pick: There Goes Patti McGee! by Tootie Nienow

In the 1960s, skateboarding was just beginning to take off as a fun activity for youth, especially for surfers when there were no waves to enjoy. Patti McGee was a surfer who excelled at skateboarding and became the first ever Skateboarding Champion in 1964. She also became a media sensation appearing on the cover of Life magazine! This children’s biography is a lovely presentation of her story that will delight the reader, even if they never attempt to step foot on a skateboard.

Sonia’s Pick: Olga and the smelly thing from nowhere OR Olga et le machin qui pue Book one in the Olga series by Elise Gravel

If you love animals but find humans a little puzzling, if you’ve ever dreamed about discovering a strange (and smelly) new animal and naming it after yourself, if you like funny and scientific chapter books with pictures and words, then this goofy and inspiring book with a smart female protagonist might be for you! Read it in French or English.