2023 Staff Picks | Summer Sandford
Summer Sandford, Youth Enrichment Manager
![A colorful book cover for "Valentina Salazar is NOT a Monster Hunter" by Zoraida Córdova, featuring a whimsical illustration with a VW bus and creatures.](https://streamline.imgix.net/845cb841-04ee-453e-bcd4-f2e868a7616d/50402e0c-b651-42e8-9d4e-e4b94f7c0e0e/image.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=2000&h=2000&fit=max&or=0&s=25f2d03d00c27d3dd778843464ca6af0)
Valentina Salazar is Not a Monster Hunter
by Zoraida Cordova
Delightful fantasy read revolves around a protagonist hailing from a family dedicated to safeguarding monsters and transporting them back to their parallel universe. However, tragedy strikes, forcing our main character into a life of normalcy. The narrative unfolds post-tragedy, delving into the struggles of our protagonist as they navigate the challenges of fitting into the ordinary world while harboring a deep desire to continue finding and protecting these fantastical creatures. A delightful and engaging read that seamlessly blends fantasy elements with the complexities of the human experience.
![DVD cover of "Letterkenny" Seasons 1 & 2 with two people, a truck, and rural backdrop.](https://streamline.imgix.net/845cb841-04ee-453e-bcd4-f2e868a7616d/1ad6c035-a917-444c-8e62-315d91ade299/image.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=2000&h=2000&fit=max&or=0&s=8ce54b0ae8cb7e6d9817ffc985108f85)
TV: Letterkenny
This binge-able Canadian series is a treasure trove of delightful dry humor, brimming with clever puns and wordplay that adds a playful and entertaining layer.
![A book cover titled "The Last Mapmaker" with an illustration of a girl on a ship's prow, maps, and a pink sky.](https://streamline.imgix.net/845cb841-04ee-453e-bcd4-f2e868a7616d/082d1355-2f58-4bf6-8a4a-cf16f3bbf1ec/image.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=2000&h=2000&fit=max&or=0&s=9ae1645093f4807f22950c9d117c79da)
The Last Mapmaker by Christina Soontornvat
Embark on a high-seas adventure within a captivating Thai-inspired fantasy realm. Follow the compelling journey of a young woman as she grapples with the weight of her past, striving to carve her own destiny in a world veiled in secrets. This thought-provoking narrative explores themes of identity and integrity, weaving an intricate tale as elaborate as the maps of old.
![A book cover titled "The City of Brass" by S.A. Chakraborty, featuring fiery elements and ornate designs.](https://streamline.imgix.net/845cb841-04ee-453e-bcd4-f2e868a7616d/951452d0-59be-41de-9d02-d102aa850164/image.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=2000&h=2000&fit=max&or=0&s=87d817c72d72966e1589e8316e980b0f)
City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty
This fantasy novel, set in the enchanting backdrop of the Middle East, invites readers into a mesmerizing realm of magic and djinns. A captivating read that skillfully turns the tables on expectations, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the fantastical world unfolds. The narrative surprises and delights, making it a truly engaging and unpredictable journey.