What’s Ashley Reading?: Buried Deep and Other Stories

Buried Deep and Other Stories by Naomi Novik

First line: My house growing up was full of words; my mother read widely.

Summary: In this collection of thirteen stories, acclaimed fantasy author Naomi Novik, brings in several of her previously published short stories as well as two new ones. These stories range from historical to science fiction with appearances by Elizabeth Bennett and dragons. As well as revisiting some of her past works she introduces us to the new world which will be the setting of her upcoming fantasy novel.

My Thoughts: I really enjoy the work of Naomi Novik. She writes some outstanding fantasy novels with beautiful world building. My first look was in Uprooted and most recently with the Scholomance trilogy.

There were several stories in here which I really enjoyed and some that I skipped. I loved revisiting the world of the Scholomance after the events of the trilogy to see what life was like for the new students. I haven’t read her dragon series but I will definitely add it to my list after reading the dragon stories in this collection. I really enjoyed the short story that inspired her book, Spinning Silver. I think it was better as a short story than a full length novel. The one I skipped early on had a strong science fiction theme to it which did not hold my attention but there are many more stories to choose from making it easy to pass on the one.

This would be a good introduction to anyone who hasn’t read Novik’s work yet or someone who wants to expand on her work as well.

What’s Ashley Reading?: Lucy Undying

Lucy Undying by Kiersten White

First line: It starts the moment you look out the window.

Summary: Lucy Westenra was just a minor character in the story of Dracula. Or at least that is what everyone thought. Since she was changed into a vampire she has spent the years searching for meaning in her eternal life. From the battlefields of Europe to the streets of modern day London it appears that nothing will give her peace and the love she has long been looking for.

Iris is trying to escape her family legacy and the dark secrets of her past. In a bid to hide, she runs away to London in order to sell any family heirlooms worth anything for quick cash. However, she did not intend to meet the stunning and brilliant Elle, a local historian who gives Iris hope that there are good people still in the world.

As the women navigate the threats to Iris they discover that they have much more in common, including a mutual enemy. They create a plan to try and bring down the dark powers that are slowly spreading across the world in a daring chance to find their own happiness in the end.

My Thoughts: Dracula is my favorite of the classic gothic novels. I have read or watched many depictions or spinoffs from the original tale, so when I saw a book centering on Lucy I knew I needed to read it.

In White’s new take on the Dracula story we get a Lucy who is desperately in love with Mina and lures Dracula to her in order to save a woman who will never love her back. This is an interesting twist that continues to drive the story along. Lucy, through her remembrances and journal entries, shows us how she really felt about the men around her during her final days. And since reading this I will see these characters just a little differently.

The story does bounce around a LOT. Chapters alternate between Human Lucy, Vampire Lucy and Iris giving us all sorts of perspectives. It started out very confusing but as I got used to the layout I became more comfortable with it.

There were times while reading where it seemed the story had reached a natural end but then it continued on with a new revelation or event that pushed the narrative into new territories. At points it felt like the story was being dragged out and ran rather slow. I did enjoy the end when everything picks up and big reveals are made. It was a fun take on a classic story that many people are familiar with.

If you love Dracula retellings then this is the book for you as spooky season is upon us!

Meet Miranda, our new Youth Services Assistant!

This blog post was written by Miranda Lanier, our new Youth Services Assistant.

Meet Miranda Lanier!

Hi there! My name is Miranda and I’m the new Youth Services Library Assistant here at Derby Public Library. I will be helping out behind the desk in the Youth Services Department and with the Adventures in the Library program for K – 2nd Graders on Thursdays at 4 p.m.

I’m currently working on my Masters of Library Science at Emporia State and am thrilled to be learning so much through their program. I grew up in Douglass, KS and live in Rose Hill with my husband and two boys who are eight and three. When I’m not doing all the mom things or studying, I enjoy reading, going on walks, or making the occasional wreath.

Right now, audio books are my go-to because they are hands free! I can listen as I drive or do housework, and it’s the only way I can read a good novel. If you haven’t looked into the Libby app I highly recommend it! Currently, I’m listening to Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle.

Some of my favorite classic children’s books to read aloud include:

Some of my favorite children’s books written in more recent years include:

  • What Do You Do With An Idea? by Kobi Yamada. This delightfully animated story encourages young children to not give up on their ideas, but to let them grow. A wonderful book for nurturing the ideas of the young and young at heart.
  • The Moonlight Zoo by Maudie Powell-Tuck. This magical story will tug at heartstrings with the message of love for lost animal friends. But don’t worry, this tale has a happy ending! Every page has beautiful illustrations and fun cut- outs.
  • Beaky Barnes: Egg on the Loose by David Ezra Stein. This graphic novel is a favorite of my eight year old. A wonderfully weird story about humanized and human sized animals on a chaotic chicken run and is filled with age-appropriate slapstick comedy. It will have your child reading and laughing from cover to cover!
  • Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds. This book is only recommended for young adults. Written entirely in free verse, it tells the story of a teenage boy who seeks revenge for his older brother’s murder. He has a critical decision to make all within an elevator ride to the first floor. This is a great pick for the reluctant reader.

I’ll wrap up my introduction with a quote I came across recently that meant something to me, and I hope it does to you too.

“Whenever you read a book or tell a story to your kids, read it with enthusiasm and all the voices. It’s a gift that they will grow up and pass on to their own children. And in your own little way, you will have made the world a better place.” -Unknown

I am so excited to be at Derby Public Library, and I can’t wait to meet you and your child!

Miranda and her family meet Santa!