Every now and then we encounter a new book that we’re so excited about we want to shout it from the rooftops, so we've created a special tag to distinguish it from the rest: Tattered Cover V.I.B. (very impressive book)! That means it’s a true stand-out in a season of many excellent and compelling new books.
Our latest selection is:
Circe by Madeline Miller
“Circe is such a unique and good book; it takes you on a journey from the first chapter and doesn't let you go. It had a fascinating examination of time because Circe is immortal and time has a rather different meaning for those who cannot die. It is beautifully structured, allowing the reader to follow Circe as she experienced the world. One of the most precious examinations was on Circe's experience of loss, because as an immortal, she lived on while others she loved, hated, befriended and mothered passed on. The writing is captivating, following the same strength and depth as Miller's other book, The Song of Achilles. There is a philosophical tone to the whole book that worked for a story told with modern language. Miller dives right into the world of the gods and doesn't look back. She thrusts the reader into the world--warts and all--guiding one through the deception, lust and art of the Greek myths. The myths wave around Circe and while she is not a main hero, she participates and the alternative telling of those classic tales is refreshing." —Mikaley Osley, Events & Marketing Manager
Purchase this and previous V.I.B.s below:
Bestselling British writer Tessa Hadley's The Past brings four middle-aged siblings and their families together for what might be their last summer holiday in the family's country home. Old family dynamics and surprising new twists make for a delightful, entertaining and thought-provoking novel. Hadley's storytelling deftly weaves the family's past, with all its ghosts and memories, jealousies and nearly unconditional love in with its present reality of squabbling and deep affection. Each player in The Past is uniquely engaging: from fading beauty Alice with her ex-boyfriend's 20 year old son Kasim, in tow, sister Frans's odd and captivating young children Ivy and Arthur, Harriet, lonely and harboring a dark and secret longing, and all the others, each with an agenda, all under one roof. The perfect storm for an utterly wonderful, brilliantly crafted novel. The Telegraph calls The Past keenly intelligent, and I certainly agree. A wonderful way to begin your reading year. -- Cathy Langer, Tattered Cover Lead Buyer
