"The Emperor's Children" by Claire Messud

I am completely ruptured by this book. Yes, ruptured. Claire Messud's quietly ironic, powerfully human story of three thirty-year-old New Yorkers is shattering and lush and gorgeous. Imagine Austen colliding with James and tackling the complex struggle of perception and reality in late American society. Let this book work you over.

"The Willoughbys" by Lois Lowry

This sly, delightful read by Newberry Award-winning author Lois Lowry is a parody of old-fashioned stories. Think of The Secret Garden and the Lemony Snicket books in a mixing bowl and you'll have some idea of the enchanting, clever characters and plot you'll find here. Suitable for boys and girls, this slim volume has orphans, a wealthy industrialist, a nanny, a beastly baby, strange goings-on in Switzerland, chocolate bars, four scheming siblings, and a particularly hilarious glossary. A pleasure to read aloud, this book is recommended for ages 8 and up.