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General Recommendations

PACL Staff's Best of 2024

By:

pacl_books

Palo Alto City Library

Staff-created list

We hope everyone enjoyed reading, listening and watching to lots of content this year. Our staff certainly did, and we rounded up our favorites reads, listens & watches to share with our community.

By:

pacl_books

Palo Alto City Library

1-25 of 49 items

1-25 of 49 items

All the Fiends of Hell

All the Fiends of Hell

by Nevill, Adam L. G.

Book - 2024

"If Stephen King had written Cormac McCarthy’s The Road you would arrive at something like this book. Throw in a little Bird Box and just a pinch of...Show more "If Stephen King had written Cormac McCarthy’s The Road you would arrive at something like this book. Throw in a little Bird Box and just a pinch of A Quiet Place. Despite borrowing heavily from many properties this novel is infused with a strange sense of religious horror that makes it feel wholly unique. The main character is a deeply flawed any-man that is entirely unprepared for a world that is sliding into utter ruin. Not a single page escapes the growing sense of horror that this gripping read brings to life." Matt, Library Associate Show less

"If Stephen King had written Cormac McCarthy’s The Road you would arrive at something like this book. Throw in a little Bird Box and just a pinch of...Show more "If Stephen King had written Cormac McCarthy’s The Road you would arrive at something like this book. Throw in a little Bird Box and just a pinch of A Quiet Place. Despite borrowing heavily from many properties this novel is infused with a strange sense of religious horror that makes it feel wholly unique. The main character is a deeply flawed any-man that is entirely unprepared for a world that is sliding into utter ruin. Not a single page escapes the growing sense of horror that this gripping read brings to life." Matt, Library Associate Show less

All copies in use Availability details

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American Fiction

American Fiction

Blu-ray Disc - 2024

Becks, Adult Services Librarian Becks, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Becks, Adult Services Librarian Becks, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Available in some locations

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Anita De Monte Laughs Last

Anita De Monte Laughs Last

by Gonzalez, Xochitl

Book - 2024

"This second novel by Gonzalez is an incredible story, following a Latina's experience in a graduate art program at an Ivy League school. Raquel turn...Show more "This second novel by Gonzalez is an incredible story, following a Latina's experience in a graduate art program at an Ivy League school. Raquel turns her dissertation into a discovery of a very talented artist, Anita, who was brutally murdered a decade before, and nearly forgotten. This moves back and forth between each women's story and their relationships with their wealthy, privileged partners. This story is tragic and gripping, and I couldn't put it down, racing to the end to find out if Anita really did have the last laugh." RuthAnn, Library Services Manager Show less

"This second novel by Gonzalez is an incredible story, following a Latina's experience in a graduate art program at an Ivy League school. Raquel turn...Show more "This second novel by Gonzalez is an incredible story, following a Latina's experience in a graduate art program at an Ivy League school. Raquel turns her dissertation into a discovery of a very talented artist, Anita, who was brutally murdered a decade before, and nearly forgotten. This moves back and forth between each women's story and their relationships with their wealthy, privileged partners. This story is tragic and gripping, and I couldn't put it down, racing to the end to find out if Anita really did have the last laugh." RuthAnn, Library Services Manager Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 5 on 2 copies

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The Bookshop of Yesterdays

The Bookshop of Yesterdays

by Meyerson, Amy

Downloadable Audiobook - 2018

"This novel will keep your attention as the narrator leads you through the path Miranda must take to learn the truth about her family history. Meyer...Show more "This novel will keep your attention as the narrator leads you through the path Miranda must take to learn the truth about her family history. Meyerson has created a sensitive and well orchestrated story about how secrets, even ones that are based in necessity and good intentions, must ultimately be faced. Fans of Shakespeare will be captivated by the many literary clues and reference scattered throughout the book that lead Miranda to Prospero's Bookstore." Rebecca, Adult Services Librarian Show less

"This novel will keep your attention as the narrator leads you through the path Miranda must take to learn the truth about her family history. Meyer...Show more "This novel will keep your attention as the narrator leads you through the path Miranda must take to learn the truth about her family history. Meyerson has created a sensitive and well orchestrated story about how secrets, even ones that are based in necessity and good intentions, must ultimately be faced. Fans of Shakespeare will be captivated by the many literary clues and reference scattered throughout the book that lead Miranda to Prospero's Bookstore." Rebecca, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Built to Last

Built to Last

by Lê, Minh

Book - 2024

"Two accidental friends build something wonderful together and even though it all comes tumbling down, they collaborate and start over again. This pi...Show more "Two accidental friends build something wonderful together and even though it all comes tumbling down, they collaborate and start over again. This picture book celebrates creative partnerships and the frustration and challenges that come up when things don't go quite the way we expect them to, but also highlights the the amazing results that come from working together toward a common goal." Alicia, Program Coordinator Show less

"Two accidental friends build something wonderful together and even though it all comes tumbling down, they collaborate and start over again. This pi...Show more "Two accidental friends build something wonderful together and even though it all comes tumbling down, they collaborate and start over again. This picture book celebrates creative partnerships and the frustration and challenges that come up when things don't go quite the way we expect them to, but also highlights the the amazing results that come from working together toward a common goal." Alicia, Program Coordinator Show less

Available in some locations

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Burner

Burner

A Novel

by Trigg, Mike

Book - 2024

"The Rinconada Library's book discussion group isn't named Pageturners for nothing. Our first selection was Mike's first book, Bit Flip. Mike graciou...Show more "The Rinconada Library's book discussion group isn't named Pageturners for nothing. Our first selection was Mike's first book, Bit Flip. Mike graciously attended our meeting to talk to us about it. When Pageturners read Burner, Mike returned to talk to us again. We're looking forward to his third book, and you will too after you read Bit Flip and Burner." Cynthia M., Adult Services Librarian Show less

"The Rinconada Library's book discussion group isn't named Pageturners for nothing. Our first selection was Mike's first book, Bit Flip. Mike graciou...Show more "The Rinconada Library's book discussion group isn't named Pageturners for nothing. Our first selection was Mike's first book, Bit Flip. Mike graciously attended our meeting to talk to us about it. When Pageturners read Burner, Mike returned to talk to us again. We're looking forward to his third book, and you will too after you read Bit Flip and Burner." Cynthia M., Adult Services Librarian Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 3 on 4 copies

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The Cave

The Cave

DVD - 2020

"This is an unforgettable story of a woman who helped change the world. This Academy Award-nominated documentary for Best Documentary is a must-watch." Valeh, Supervising Librarian "This is an unforgettable story of a woman who helped change the world. This Academy Award-nominated documentary for Best Documentary is a must-watch." Valeh, Supervising Librarian Show less

"This is an unforgettable story of a woman who helped change the world. This Academy Award-nominated documentary for Best Documentary is a must-watch." Valeh, Supervising Librarian "This is an unforgettable story of a woman who helped change the world. This Academy Award-nominated documentary for Best Documentary is a must-watch." Valeh, Supervising Librarian Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 3 on 0 copies

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Civil War

Civil War

Blu-ray Disc - 2024

"Rebel factions aiming to overthrow the President are on their way to DC. An aspiring photojournalist teams up with experienced wartime photographer ...Show more "Rebel factions aiming to overthrow the President are on their way to DC. An aspiring photojournalist teams up with experienced wartime photographer Lee, hoping to reach the White House to get the scoop. Fiction, but doesn't feel like it." Marleah, Supervising Librarian Show less

"Rebel factions aiming to overthrow the President are on their way to DC. An aspiring photojournalist teams up with experienced wartime photographer ...Show more "Rebel factions aiming to overthrow the President are on their way to DC. An aspiring photojournalist teams up with experienced wartime photographer Lee, hoping to reach the White House to get the scoop. Fiction, but doesn't feel like it." Marleah, Supervising Librarian Show less

Available in some locations

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A Court of Silver Flames

A Court of Silver Flames

by Maas, Sarah J.

Book - 2021

"There was so much buzz about this series that I had to read it this year. My absolute favorite of this series is A Court of Silver Flames. Nesta's s...Show more "There was so much buzz about this series that I had to read it this year. My absolute favorite of this series is A Court of Silver Flames. Nesta's struggle between light and dark is something that I think we all can identify with. I enjoyed seeing her character's journey and the friendships she forged by allowing herself to be loved. This series is a must-read for Romantasy fans!" Alicia, Program Coordinator Show less

"There was so much buzz about this series that I had to read it this year. My absolute favorite of this series is A Court of Silver Flames. Nesta's s...Show more "There was so much buzz about this series that I had to read it this year. My absolute favorite of this series is A Court of Silver Flames. Nesta's struggle between light and dark is something that I think we all can identify with. I enjoyed seeing her character's journey and the friendships she forged by allowing herself to be loved. This series is a must-read for Romantasy fans!" Alicia, Program Coordinator Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 2 on 1 copy

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Definitive All-time Greatest Hits

Definitive All-time Greatest Hits

by Denver, John

Music CD - 2004

"A solid collection of the folk musician's most well-known songs. For anyone who found this past year to be challenging, John Denver's voice and lyrics provide sweet nostalgia and comfort." Priya, Adult Services Librarian "A solid collection of the folk musician's most well-known songs. For anyone who found this past year to be challenging, John Denver's voice and lyrics provide sweet nostalgia and comfort." Priya, Adult Services Librarian Show less

"A solid collection of the folk musician's most well-known songs. For anyone who found this past year to be challenging, John Denver's voice and lyrics provide sweet nostalgia and comfort." Priya, Adult Services Librarian "A solid collection of the folk musician's most well-known songs. For anyone who found this past year to be challenging, John Denver's voice and lyrics provide sweet nostalgia and comfort." Priya, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Available in some locations

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Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Deadpool & Wolverine

Deadpool & Wolverine

Blu-ray Disc - 2024

"This movie brings together two iconic antiheroes in an epic adventure to save their worlds. Its action packed and crazy fun, balancing clever humor and a lifetime of past regrets that Marvel fans will love." Reshard, Supervising Librarian "This movie brings together two iconic antiheroes in an epic adventure to save their worlds. Its action packed and crazy fun, balancing clever humor and a lifetime of past regrets that Marvel fans will love." Reshard, Supervising Librarian Show less

"This movie brings together two iconic antiheroes in an epic adventure to save their worlds. Its action packed and crazy fun, balancing clever humor and a lifetime of past regrets that Marvel fans will love." Reshard, Supervising Librarian "This movie brings together two iconic antiheroes in an epic adventure to save their worlds. Its action packed and crazy fun, balancing clever humor and a lifetime of past regrets that Marvel fans will love." Reshard, Supervising Librarian Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 1 on 6 copies

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Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Doctor Who

Doctor Who

The Complete First Series

DVD - 2012

Barbara, Library Services Manager Barbara, Library Services Manager Show less

Barbara, Library Services Manager Barbara, Library Services Manager Show less

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The Eyes & the Impossible

The Eyes & the Impossible

by Eggers, Dave

eBook - 2023

"Ethan Hawke embraces his inner canine as Johannes, a dog that runs around the park and reports any anomalies to the bison. The print book includes g...Show more "Ethan Hawke embraces his inner canine as Johannes, a dog that runs around the park and reports any anomalies to the bison. The print book includes gorgeous illustrations, but Hawke's narration is worth the list." Marleah, Supervising Librarian Show less

"Ethan Hawke embraces his inner canine as Johannes, a dog that runs around the park and reports any anomalies to the bison. The print book includes g...Show more "Ethan Hawke embraces his inner canine as Johannes, a dog that runs around the park and reports any anomalies to the bison. The print book includes gorgeous illustrations, but Hawke's narration is worth the list." Marleah, Supervising Librarian Show less

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Eyes That Weave the World's Wonders

Eyes That Weave the World's Wonders

by Ho, Joanna

Book - 2024

Kevin, Library Associate Kevin, Library Associate Show less

Kevin, Library Associate Kevin, Library Associate Show less

Available in some locations

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The First State of Being

The First State of Being

by Kelly, Erin Entrada

Book - 2024

"This science fiction middle grade book by one of my favorite Filipina authors, Erin Entrada Kelly. This book is set in 1999 and I loved reading abou...Show more "This science fiction middle grade book by one of my favorite Filipina authors, Erin Entrada Kelly. This book is set in 1999 and I loved reading about all the nostalgia of that period in time - objects, clothing, slang. It includes the big Y2K problem and how we were all worried what would happen to our computers (and the world) when the clock hit the year 2000. In the book, a time-traveling teen gets trapped in 1999 and it's up to Gibby and Michael to help him get back to 2199. Entrada creates a captivating cast of characters that stays with you even after you finish the book." Alicia, Program Coordinator. Show less

"This science fiction middle grade book by one of my favorite Filipina authors, Erin Entrada Kelly. This book is set in 1999 and I loved reading abou...Show more "This science fiction middle grade book by one of my favorite Filipina authors, Erin Entrada Kelly. This book is set in 1999 and I loved reading about all the nostalgia of that period in time - objects, clothing, slang. It includes the big Y2K problem and how we were all worried what would happen to our computers (and the world) when the clock hit the year 2000. In the book, a time-traveling teen gets trapped in 1999 and it's up to Gibby and Michael to help him get back to 2199. Entrada creates a captivating cast of characters that stays with you even after you finish the book." Alicia, Program Coordinator. Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 3 on 3 copies

Place hold

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Fourth Wing

Fourth Wing

by Yarros, Rebecca

Book - 2023

"This year I embarked on a journey into the romantasy (or romantic fantasy) genre, starting with Fourth Wing. I must say, it was very difficult to pu...Show more "This year I embarked on a journey into the romantasy (or romantic fantasy) genre, starting with Fourth Wing. I must say, it was very difficult to put this book down. Dragons, romance, political intrigue, and brutal life-or-death stakes - this book is a blast from start to finish! I highly recommend if you are interested in either fantasy or romance." Nick, Adult Services Librarian Show less

"This year I embarked on a journey into the romantasy (or romantic fantasy) genre, starting with Fourth Wing. I must say, it was very difficult to pu...Show more "This year I embarked on a journey into the romantasy (or romantic fantasy) genre, starting with Fourth Wing. I must say, it was very difficult to put this book down. Dragons, romance, political intrigue, and brutal life-or-death stakes - this book is a blast from start to finish! I highly recommend if you are interested in either fantasy or romance." Nick, Adult Services Librarian Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 1 on 5 copies

Place hold

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Godzilla minus one

Godzilla minus one

Blu-ray Disc - 2024

"I missed this one on the big screen last year, but was so hyped to catch it when it was re-released for Godzilla's 70th anniversary. This movie was ...Show more "I missed this one on the big screen last year, but was so hyped to catch it when it was re-released for Godzilla's 70th anniversary. This movie was quite a beautiful origin story of one pop culture's most terrifying creatures. The production of this movie is stunning, and the story and performances were so emotional. It's now my favorite Godzilla movie." RuthAnn, Library Services Manager Show less

"I missed this one on the big screen last year, but was so hyped to catch it when it was re-released for Godzilla's 70th anniversary. This movie was ...Show more "I missed this one on the big screen last year, but was so hyped to catch it when it was re-released for Godzilla's 70th anniversary. This movie was quite a beautiful origin story of one pop culture's most terrifying creatures. The production of this movie is stunning, and the story and performances were so emotional. It's now my favorite Godzilla movie." RuthAnn, Library Services Manager Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 3 on 5 copies

Place hold

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Hello Beautiful

Hello Beautiful

A Novel

by Napolitano, Ann

Book - 2023

"This is a modern reimagining of Little Women, with a unique twist. The book explores themes of loss, redemption, family bonds, and relationships, focusing on the complexities of love and connection in today’s world." Weili, Library Clerk "This is a modern reimagining of Little Women, with a unique twist. The book explores themes of loss, redemption, family bonds, and relationships, focusing on the complexities of love and connection in today’s world." Weili, Library Clerk Show less

"This is a modern reimagining of Little Women, with a unique twist. The book explores themes of loss, redemption, family bonds, and relationships, focusing on the complexities of love and connection in today’s world." Weili, Library Clerk "This is a modern reimagining of Little Women, with a unique twist. The book explores themes of loss, redemption, family bonds, and relationships, focusing on the complexities of love and connection in today’s world." Weili, Library Clerk Show less

Available in some locations

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Hidden Potential

Hidden Potential

The Science of Achieving Greater Things

by Grant, Adam

Book - 2023

"This book helped me teach my daughters how to play chess and now they love playing!" Kevin, Library Associate "This book helped me teach my daughters how to play chess and now they love playing!" Kevin, Library Associate Show less

"This book helped me teach my daughters how to play chess and now they love playing!" Kevin, Library Associate "This book helped me teach my daughters how to play chess and now they love playing!" Kevin, Library Associate Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 5 on 5 copies

Place hold

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

HIT ME HARD AND SOFT

HIT ME HARD AND SOFT

by Eilish, Billie

Downloadable Music - 2024

"In a year full of amazing pop album releases, this one really stood out for me. The lyrics, musical composition and Billie's voice just combined to ...Show more "In a year full of amazing pop album releases, this one really stood out for me. The lyrics, musical composition and Billie's voice just combined to make a deep thoughtful pop album that will stay with me for quite some time." RuthAnn, Library Services Manager Show less

"In a year full of amazing pop album releases, this one really stood out for me. The lyrics, musical composition and Billie's voice just combined to ...Show more "In a year full of amazing pop album releases, this one really stood out for me. The lyrics, musical composition and Billie's voice just combined to make a deep thoughtful pop album that will stay with me for quite some time." RuthAnn, Library Services Manager Show less

Instantly available on hoopla

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

How Do You Live?

How Do You Live?

by Yoshino, Genzaburō

Book - 2021

"Set in late 1930s Japan, this coming-of-age story explores the journey of growing up, building friendships, and finding your own path in the world. ...Show more "Set in late 1930s Japan, this coming-of-age story explores the journey of growing up, building friendships, and finding your own path in the world. It's a gentle, thought-provoking read that takes you through the ups and downs of life with a simplicity that makes its deeper lessons all the more impactful. It’s the kind of book that stays with you after you’ve finished." Doris, Marketing & Outreach Coordinator Show less

"Set in late 1930s Japan, this coming-of-age story explores the journey of growing up, building friendships, and finding your own path in the world. ...Show more "Set in late 1930s Japan, this coming-of-age story explores the journey of growing up, building friendships, and finding your own path in the world. It's a gentle, thought-provoking read that takes you through the ups and downs of life with a simplicity that makes its deeper lessons all the more impactful. It’s the kind of book that stays with you after you’ve finished." Doris, Marketing & Outreach Coordinator Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 4 on 1 copy

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Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

How to Know A Person

How to Know A Person

The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen

by Brooks, David

Book - 2023

Kevin, Library Associate Kevin, Library Associate Show less

Kevin, Library Associate Kevin, Library Associate Show less

All copies in use Availability details Holds: 41 on 4 copies

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Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

Inside Out 2

DVD - 2024

"Inside Out 2 is the sequel to the original film, where the main character is now a teenager. She faces new emotions and challenges as she navigates ...Show more "Inside Out 2 is the sequel to the original film, where the main character is now a teenager. She faces new emotions and challenges as she navigates the complexities of growing up. This movie really hit home for me, as it reminded me of what my daughter went through as a teen." Weili, Library Clerk Show less

"Inside Out 2 is the sequel to the original film, where the main character is now a teenager. She faces new emotions and challenges as she navigates ...Show more "Inside Out 2 is the sequel to the original film, where the main character is now a teenager. She faces new emotions and challenges as she navigates the complexities of growing up. This movie really hit home for me, as it reminded me of what my daughter went through as a teen." Weili, Library Clerk Show less

Available in some locations

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The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones

The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones

by McQueen, Daven

Book - 2020

Becks, Adult Services Librarian Becks, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Becks, Adult Services Librarian Becks, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Available in some locations

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The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show

The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show

by Musgraves, Kacey

Downloadable Music - 2019

Becks, Adult Services Librarian Becks, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Becks, Adult Services Librarian Becks, Adult Services Librarian Show less

Instantly available on hoopla

Add to My For Later Shelf On my shelf

1-25 of 49 items

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