The Chuckanut Reader - Fall 2026

Chuckanut Reader The

A Village Books Publication • Fall 2026 A Village Books Publication • Spring 2026

FREE! take enjoy • •

A Magazine for the Northwest’s Most Avid Readers

Exploring Autumn with Village Books & Paper Dreams

Author Events Galore including the Fall

Nature of Writing Speaker Series An Incredible see page 49

Selection of New & Upcoming Reads

Volume 33, Issue 3

Gold Ventana Waterfall, 2025, neon and composition by Kelsey Fernkopf, photo by Steve Gilbert, image courtesy of the artists

NOW ON VIEW

The Neon Landscapes of Kelsey Fernkopf Photography by Steve Gilbert THROUGH MARCH 7, 2027 · 250 FLORA ST

SEE IT GLOW ALL YEAR. Members get unlimited free admission to all exhibitions, plus discounts on workshops, camps, and events.

J O I N TO DAY — W H ATC O M M U S E U M . O R G / M E M B E R S H I P

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Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Dear Reader, Ask most people around here and they say that autumn is their favorite season, although summer in the Pacific Northwest is pretty darn amazing. Swimming in the myriad of lakes or the bay, riding on Galbraith without mud spraying in your face, and picking wild blackberries are all but a few things that are special about our summers. But there is nothing like a crisp autumn day. When the days Village Books Owners Sarah Hutton, are getting shorter and the leaves are beginning to fall, this says to Paul Hanson, and Kelly Evert readers it’s time to put on a sweater and curl up on the sofa with a book! This autumn we are bringing you a plethora of events that will inspire you and create a fantastical world. Jodi Picoult will be here again for an energy-filled evening (see page 13). And we will have a midnight release party for Sarah J. Maas’s new book (see page 18). That's on top of new releases from staff favorites Bonnie Garmus, John Green, Barbara Kingsolver, and more! Autumn is also a great time to join one of our many book club offerings open to the public. So, add some more cinnamon to your pumpkin chai and let’s read.

– Kelly, Paul, Sarah,

and the Entire Village Books and Paper Dreams Family

In This Issue...

The Chuckanut Reader Fall 2026

Publisher: Village Books and Paper Dreams Production & Design: Kelly Carbert Contributors: Kiana Allen, Kendra Calitri, Kelly Carbert, Caitriona Cassel, Erin Chervenock, Adelaide Conover, Stephanie Dethlefs, Kelly Evert, Paul Hanson, Chloe Hovind, Sarah Hutton, Kat Kayser, Sean Kearney, Troy Luginbill, Laura Picco, Kelly Sims, Kellen Smith, Courtney Velthuizen, Bailey Whyte, Members of the Young Adult Review Committee Cover: Art by author/illustrator Emily Poole from the cover of her book, Cascade of Life (The Mountaineers Books). Don't miss her October 27 event at Village Books in Fairhaven! See more on page 49.

Village Books & Paper Dreams - Open Daily 1200 11th St., Bellingham, WA 98225 • 360.671.2626 430 Front St., Lynden, WA 98264 • 360.526.2133 Content except art, ads, and book covers ©Village Books 2026

browse & shop anytime at villagebooks.com

Thank You for Shopping Local

Dear Reader 3 The OPEN BOOK Festival is Back -Mark Your Calendars!

4 Banned Books Week 2026 - Let Books Be 5 Fall Fun in Fairhaven and Beyond 6-7 Booked at The Baker Upcoming Events 8 Fabulous Fall Finds - Shopping with Kelly 9 What Whatcom Was Reading - Fairhaven 11 WhatcomREADS 2027 17 Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Horror, Sci-Fi & Fantasy 12-23 Writing Opportunities Abound 24-27 Eat Out or Stay In - Cook, Bake, and Entertain in Style 29-31 Check Out What's Happening in Lynden 33-37 Round It Up for Racial Unity Now (RUN) 38 Real People, Real Stories, History & Cultural Criticism 39-45 The Chuckanut Radio Hour Upcoming Shows 47 Science & Nature Nature of Writing 48-51 The Nature of Writing Speaker Series 49 Life, Family, Art, Poetry 52-53 Chuckanut Editions Newest Title - Blue Jay 54 Kids and Young Adult Reads, Events, and Opportunities 55-65 Summer Memories 67 Village Books Literature Live Author Events & More 68-76 Join a Book Group!

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Fall 2026

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2026-27 It’s time their music was heard

CELEBRATE READERS, WRITERS AND BOOKISH ENTHUSIASM AT THIS LIBRARY LOVER’S DREAM DAY

A festIval foR ReADERs

Join BCMS as we celebrate the composers in Leah Broad’s book musicinbellingham.com

FEATURED AUTHORS:

EMMA PATTEE

Author of critically acclaimed bestseller Tilt

DONNA BARBA HIGUERA

Winner, Newbery Medal and Pura Belpré Award

SUNDAY, NOV. 8, NOON-5:00 PM FERNDALE EVENTS CENTER

WCLS.ORG/OPENBOOK

Presented by Whatcom County Library System and Village Books. Generously sponsored by Whatcom County Library Foundation. Illustration by Keith Negley.

WHATCOM COUNTY LIBRARY

FOUNDATION 4

Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Celebrate Your Freedom to Read

October 4-10, 2026

Banned Books Week Celebrated October 4-10 2026, Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read. Launched in 1982, it was created in response to a surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries. Of the titles targeted for censorship, the vast majority were written by LGBTQIA+ and Black authors or centerd on members of those communities, as well as Indigenous people & people of color.

In 2025, 92 percent of all book challenges were initiated by pressure groups, government officials, and decision makers, up from 72 percent in 2024. Less than 3 percent of challenges originated from individual parents.

“In 2025, book bans were not sparked by concerned parents, and they were not the result of local grassroots efforts,” said Sarah Lamdan, Executive Director of American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. “They were part of a well-funded, politically-driven campaign to suppress the stories and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals and communities.”

PROTECT the Freedom to Read Advocate for the freedom to read! Learn more about censorship and find resources for preventing and responding to book bans by visiting ALA.org/BBooks, uniteagainstbannedbooks.org.

Stop by both Village Books locations during Banned Books Week to check out our banned & challenged book displays.

Most Challenged Books of 2025 Sold

by Patricia McCormick The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky Gender Queer: A Memoir

by Maia Kobabe Empire of Storms

by Sarah J. Maas Last Night at the Telegraph Club

by Malinda Lo Tricks

by Ellen Hopkins A Court of Thorns and Roses

by Sarah J. Maas A Clockwork Orange

by Anthony Burgess Identical by Ellen Hopkins Looking for Alaska

by John Green Storm and Fury

by Jennifer L. Armentrout

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Fall 2026

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Ticketsfor next season on sale now.

Don’t miss these shows in 2026-2027!

visitskagitvalley.com

Tuesday, October 6 · 7:30 PM Burnin’ in Mount Vernon 10/10 Lloyd Cole 10/11 Skagit Drag 10/17 Gary Gulman 10/18 Laura Veirs & Karl Blau 10/26 TAG presents RENT 11/6-22 NiTE presents A Christmas Carol 12/11-19

Other Great 2026-2027 Shows Groundhog Day: The Musical November 27–December 13, 2026 Proof January 22–February 7, 2027 POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive

March 26–April 11, 2027

Alice by Heart June 11–27, 2027

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

TICKETS: bellinghamtheatreguild.com

1600 H St., Bellingham | 360-733-1811

712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon · 360.336.8955 · lincolntheatre.org

Sunday, November 15, 10am-5pm

Village Books & Paper Dreams

Pre-Holiday

Open House

Save the Date!

Mark your calendars and join us for the festive annual Village Books & Paper Dreams pre-holiday open house! Get a jump on your holiday shopping while enjoying visiting stations, the alwayspopular book walk, and a chance to spin the wheel for prizes on this day of celebration and fun.

Fairhaven

Winterfest

Mark Your Calendars!

November 28 - December 19 Always evolving and always special, this annual celebration of the winter holidays is full of family-friendly activities including a luminary walk and carriage rides. With great shopping, amazing food, and a beautiful atmosphere, Fairhaven is always a great holiday destination.

Mark Your Calendars!

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Fall 2026

Art by Scott Ward

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Mark Your Calendars & Join Us! Fairhaven Annual

Sidewalk Sale Saturday, September 5, 2026

Head to the historic Fairhaven district and enjoy browsing for deals on this annual day of discounts. Village Books and Paper Dreams will offer books, gift items, seasonal decor, and more out in front of our stores—all at bargain prices. Stop by and see what treasures you score!

Don't Miss the Annual

Literacy Breakfast with Nancy Pearl Thursday, November 5, 2026 Four Points Sheraton, Bellingham, WA Mark your calendar and join us at the annual literacy breakfast with the one and only Nancy Pearl! The Whatcom Literacy Council will share highlights of their services and author/librarian/NPR commentator Nancy Pearl will offer her book recommendations for the year. Just $35 reserves your seat—all donations support the adult literacy programs of the Whatcom Literacy Council. Village Books will have Nancy's latest recommendations as well as her own titles available at both the breakfast and in-store—enjoy!

Registration Opens September 2nd at whatcomliteracy.org

Change a Life.

Become a Tutor.

Presenting Partner BP Cherry Point Refinery

The Whatcom Literacy Council relies on the dedication of volunteer tutors to help adult learners reach their goals and strengthen our community. Tutors of all ages welcome. Learn more at whatcomliteracy.org.

Ahhh... there's nothing quite like a leisurely evening stroll through Fairhaven Village. Grab a drink, a bite, and enjoy displays of art at participating businesses, restaurants, and galleries.

4th Friday Fairhaven

ART WALKS

HONORING VETERANS Wednesday, November 11

On Veteran's Day, we are offering a storewide 20% off discount for active military and veterans at both Village Books and Paper Dreams in both Fairhaven and Lynden. We thank you for your service.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

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BOOKED at the Baker

Village Books and Paper Dreams is excited to join Mount Baker Theatre in bringing these amazing shows to Bellingham as part of our Booked at the Baker Series.

Sunday, October 18, 7pm at Mount Baker Theatre, Downtown, Bellingham, WA Revered for her deeply personal and experimental comedy about mental illness, Maria Bamford stars in the surreal, semi-autobiographical Netflix comedy series Lady Dynamite, is the star of four hour-long standup specials, created and starred in the cult hit web series The Maria Bamford Show, AND is the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult. For Mature Audiences.

Patrons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a chaperone.

Thursday, November 5, 7:30pm at Mount Baker Theatre, Downtown, Bellingham, WA You grew up watching him—now spend the evening with him! Bill Nye is an American science educator, engineer, television presenter, comedian, inventor, and New York Times bestselling author. As the co-creator and host of the Emmy Award-winning ‘90s television series Bill Nye the Science Guy, Nye has helped introduce science and engineering in an entertaining and accessible way to generations of viewers, fostering an understanding and appreciation for the science that makes our world work.

During this live show, Nye will explore a variety of topics including space and planetary science, climate change, environmental issues, current events in science, and his extensive background in television and education.

All Ages! Don't miss out!

Tickets available now at

mountbakertheatre.com Mount Baker Theatre - Celebrating 100 Years!

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Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Fabulous Fall Finds Shopping with Kelly!

A family-owned business based in Southern California, Linnea Design produces beautiful wall calendars, desk calendars and functional art accessories designed by Johanna Riley. Founded in 1986, the Linnea calendar has been a family gift tradition for years, and a favorite of VBPD customers. Artist Johanna Riley has holds a degree in art history from the University of Oregon. Her fresh style with bold colors has appeared in Pottery Barn, World Wildlife Fund, Friends, and HGTV. Even closer to home, their production manager Jessica is a proud Western Washinton University graduate!

Luxury Oral Care Go ahead and scream at people, they will love your breath!

Made in Italy, Marvis began at the Ludovico Martelli Company in 1997.

For the development of their aromas, they cooperate with the most prestigious fragrance houses, in which expert perfumers explore the world looking for the finest ingredients for high-quality tastes. This is the fancy toothpaste you deserve.

C.O. Bigelow hand wash on display with the original formula!

Nestled in the tiny neighborhood of Greenwich Village in New York City, C.O. Bigelow is the oldest apothecary in America! Originally called The Village Apothecary Shoppe, they have served some of the country’s most predominant personalities for over two centuries, including Thomas Edison, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mark Twain.They provide a variety of customized formulas and natural healing therapeutic preparations.

Today, their chemists continue to tap into their archives to unlock apothecary formulas and improve existing recipes using the best of today’s modern technology—all while remaining true to tradition.

Legend has it that Thomas Edison soothed his burnt fingers with Bigelow’s balm whilst testing an early prototype of his light bulb!

Kelly Evert, Owner of an Independent Business Building Community Since 1980 FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Fall 2026

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CUSTOMIZED

Care Packages!

Village Books & Paper Dreams

Send Books • Send Gifts • Send Smiles These thoughtful packages are the perfect surprise for any occasion—back-to-school gift, Halloween, birthdays, or just an I'm thinking about you to anyone who may need a little lift.

Let Us Shop For You!

Go to villagebooks.com and choose a theme then answer a few questions about the recipients preferences and reading habits. All Ages!

Our personal shoppers will take care of all the rest.

The Village Books Great History Mystery

PUZZLE HUNTS The Third Puzzle Hunt is Now Ready!

Village Books & Paper Dreams teamed up with Cryptid Escapes to create two different in-store puzzle hunts­— one in our Fairhaven store and another at our Lynden location. A great way to have fun while learning some local history, these challenges have proven a popular activity for hundreds of visitors over the past year, with participants receiving a congratulatory sticker and entrance into a monthly drawing upon completion.

Puzzle hunt number THREE was finished earlier this year! Please note: to solve this third puzzle, you must have completed both the Fairhaven and Lynden in-store puzzle hunts.

This third puzzle hunt carries you outside the walls of Village Books and Paper Dreams to explore the history of Whatcom County. To get started, go to the information desk in our Fairhaven store and say that you're ready for the third puzzle. After verifying that you've completed the other two challenges, we'll provide you with the clue* to start you on your journey! *This clue was inspired by our friends—the League of Women Voters of Bellingham and Whatcom County.

Have fun and good luck!

Solve and be entered to win prizes!

10 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

WHAT

WHATCOM

IS READING

Village Books in Fairhaven

Top Sellers of 2026 . . . so far!

1. Solito by Javier Zamora 2. I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger 3. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi 4. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir 5. Little Woodchucks by Nick Offerman 6. Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman 7. The Glorians by Terry Tempest Williams 8. The Correspondent by Virginia Evans 9. Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke 10. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

The current top-selling titles of 2026 are a reflection of both local interests and national bestsellers.

The Whatcom Reads 2026 title tops the list at #1and is immediately followed by the upcoming 2027 Whatcom Reads selection—pretty cool!

Multiple visiting authors including Nick Offerman, Terry Tempest Williams, Kevin Fedarko, Isabel Wilkerson, and Ann Patchett also make the list!

Whether you're looking for your next read or just interested in seeing what's keeping your neighbors up at night, this is the list for you!

Thanks for buying local!

11. Carl’s Doomsday Scenario

by Matt Dinniman 12. I Who Have Never Known Men

by Jacqueline Harpman 13. The God of the Woods

by Liz Moore 14. Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid 15. A World Appears by Michael Pollan 16. A Walk in the Park

by Kevin Fedarko 17. Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

18. Whistler by Ann Patchett 19. Red Rising by Pierce Brown 20. Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy 21. The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer 22. Devotions by Mary Oliver 23. Urban Trails Bellingham by Craig Romano 24. The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout 25. The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

Thank You for Shopping Local

Paperback Releases

Fall 2026

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Fiction Notes on a Colonial Situation in Hell

by Robert G. Penner

available in September, hardcover, McNally Jackson Books

Britain colonizes Hell when a portal is found. Satire and social commentary and absurdist writing on the scale of Bulgakov (Master and Margarita) or Twain. I love a good examination of human nature, and this does not disappoint. –Erin

The Birthing Tree

by Amanda Peters

available in September, hardcover, Catapult

From the bestselling author of The Berry Pickers, an unforgettable novel about a woman who must confront her family’s buried truths of passionate young love when her grandmother’s death leaves her as the only guide to her community’s future.

"Peters draws on her Mi’kmaq heritage for this nuanced depiction of the tribe and its threatened traditions . . . The alternating storylines gradually converge, and the narrative builds to a satisfying resolution. It’s a tender story of self-discovery and the power of generations of women." —Publishers Weekly.

The Pirate Queen

by Ariel Lawhon

Under the Falls

by Richard Russo

available now, hardcover, Knopf

Under the Falls is at once a propulsive thriller, a gut-wrenching portrait of a tight-knit rural community undone by the sins of its past, and an unflinchingly honest depiction of how porous the line between right and wrong, good versus evil, can become. This is a stunning, deeply empathetic novel, one that takes Russo’s penchant for character-driven drama to thrilling new heights.

Peck and Peck

by Bonnie Garmus

available in October, hardcover, Scribner

Here she is again! Bonnie Garmus brought us Lessons in Chemistry and we are still talking about that book but now we have Peck & Peck. Wildly imaginative and fun this is a joy to read. It's 1982, New York City, and Batter Gray just got his dream job at a posh poetry quarterly. The rest you will just have to read about on your own because it is so fantastical and layered. Have fun! –Kelly E.

Our Noble Selves

by Kate Atkinson

available in September, hardcover, Doubleday

A history-inspired novel that follows the life of Grace O'Malley, the Pirate Queen of Ireland. While there are the predictable tropes of the life of a woman limited by the reality of being born a woman, Lawhon voices O'Malley well, and I was compelled to follow her story for the sheer fun of it. A natural contender for book clubs. –Erin

When a Frenchwoman goes missing, crime correspondent turned war reporter Harry Flynn becomes the central suspect in her disappearance—and possible murder. He was the last person to see her alive, yet he has no memory of the evening they spent together.

As evidence against him mounts, Flynn begins to wonder if he might actually be to blame.

To make matters worse, he is surrounded by people who have their own secret agenda.

Sunrise

Daphnis and Chloe

available in September, hardcover, Doubleday

by Téa Obreht available now, hardcover, Random House

Three lives, 100 years, one ghost town: an explosive novel about a mysterious place called Sunrise where the secrets of the past refuse to stay buried, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Tiger’s Wife. "Sunrise is thrilling and ingenious. In her new novel, Obreht explores this country's troubled past, its gaps and silences, and the rich history that only new storytellers can excavate."

–Laila Lalami, bestselling author of The Dream Hotel

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by Colin McAdam

available in October, paperback, Biblioasis

This is one of the most human books I've read of late. It reads more like a Greek tragedy than novel (it is, of course, narrated by Eros). The grittiness of day to day life lends a modern feel to the story, yet the characters live on a remote island, accessible only by ferry, which adds a morality-tale "land far, far away" magic. Read it for the love story, but enjoy it for its simple and intelligent examination of family and humanity. –Erin

Building Community One Book at a Time

Thursday, October 15, 7pm

JODI PICOULT

in conversation with bestselling author Susan Wiggs Bellingham High School, 2020 Cornwall Ave. Village Books is excited to welcome #1 New York Times bestselling author Jodi Picoult back to Bellingham as we celebrate her riveting new novel, Hollow Bones—about the risks we take to protect the ones we love in a world where crisis is always just around the corner.

Tickets available now at villagbeooks.com! As you prepare for this fun night, here are a few notes to keep in mind: • Each ticket purchase includes one signed copy of Hollow Bones, which you will receive at the event. One admittance per ticket. Additional unsigned copies of a selection of Jodi Picoult’s work will be available for purchase at the event.

• This event will wrap up with a photo line where you can meet Jodi and get your photo taken by a professional photographer!

New Fiction Partita

by Barbara Kingsolver

The Witches of Cambridge

by Alice Hoffman

available in October, hardcover, Harper

available in September, hardcover, Scribner

It is always very exciting when Barbara Kingsolver releases a new book. Always the author of strong characters, this novel brings us Livia who learns who she is through years of passion, art, family and the responsibility that goes along with the dynamics of being human. Music appreciators and book groups will love this book! –Kelly E.

By the 1950s, Cambridge, Massachusetts feels far removed from the legendary witch trials that marked its early days as a colony.

Ava, a bright young woman from a small town in Maine, arrives for her first year at Radcliffe College. There, she meets Lauren, the wild and brazen daughter of a well-established Cambridge family. But the two have more in common than they think. Both are recruited by a secret organization of witches at Radcliffe dating back to colonial times. As they learn more about their legacy, Ava and Lauren form a close bond that is put to the test as they learn to navigate their new power, friendship, and love.

Hear ye hear ye! Another Kingsolver has descended upon us from the heavens. As usual, she is delicate with her storytelling, keeping me on the verge of tears throughout. Anyone with a deep connection to music or place will find warmth in this novel! –Kiana

The Radiance

by Ayad Akhtar

Shop & browse 24/7 at villagebooks.com The Thoroughbreds

available in September, hardcover, Summit Books

by Elin Hilderbrand

When a hit-and-run shatters more than his body, a writer is plunged into a spiritual awakening he can’t tell from madness. In its grip, he’s drawn to a brilliant campus colleague by an uncanny pull, and into a scandal that threatens to destroy them both.

What begins as a provocative portrait of academic and cultural warfare deepens into erotic entanglement, the exposure of a family secret, and the mystery surrounding the narrator’s accident.

available in September, hardcover, Little, Brown

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

September at Tiffin Academy is always a heady time, especially for the senior class— “sixth formers,” in Tiffin-speak—a season of college applications and intense pressure, of partying hard and last hurrahs. As the chapel bells ring in students and staff, everyone has something to look forward to—but in the midst of the anticipation and excitement, nagging questions and dark secrets lurk beneath the surface.

Fall 2026

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New Fiction The Chinese Lady

by Bo Wang

available in September, hardcover, HarperVia

In 1834 Afong Moy was brought to New York by two merchants as a live exhibit. Rising to fame as the first Chinese female in the United States, she became an oddity among curios as Americans marveled at the opportunity to observe her astonishing little feet. Combining archival research and brilliantly imaginative storytelling, Bo Wang masterfully fills in history’s gaps to weave a powerful narrative of survival in the face of hardship, tragedy, and betrayal. Told through the eyes of those around her; mirroring her life as an object on display, until we finally see the world through her own eyes.

Time Travel for Beginners

by Jaclyn Moriarty

available now, hardcover, Berkley Books

This has to be one of my favorite takes on time travel. It manages to turn the extraordinary almost mundane, but then turns right around and reminds us how extraordinary the mundane can be. You will fall in love with the characters and their very real problems, and you will be enchanted by the magnificent little Time Travel Agency and its eccentrically charming cast of employees.

Do not be intimidated by the number of pages; this was one of my fastest reads of the year so far. –Caitriona

Hollywood, Ending

by John Green

available in September, hardcover, Dutton Books

I have been a John Green fan for a LONG time and I am so glad he is back! This story presents as a meeting of two actors- one a former child actor, one an up-andcomer- on the set of a movie with modest expectations. What it actually is to me is a meditation on what we keep and what we share, what we love in others and what we learn to love in ourselves, and how those can combine to create a whole new story. –Sarah

How Can My Manager Be So Stupid?

by Kazumasa Hayami, translated by Haydn Trowell

available in September, hardcover, G.P. Putnam’s Sons

"On the cusp of thirty, bookseller Kyoko Tanihara lives paycheck to paycheck, alone in a tiny book-filled apartment, juggling her jaded frustrations with the retail hierarchy and her earnest, ardent love for reading. Winsome, silly, poignant, and utterly relatable, How Can My Manager Be So Stupid? reminds us of the importance of both losing ourselves and finding ourselves in a good book." —Mara Faye Lethem, author of A Person's A Person, No Matter How Small.

Having A Wonderful Time:

The Barman of the Ritz

Postcards that Tell a Story

available in September, hardcover, Scribner

available in September, hardcover, New Press

The Ritz is one of the few businesses still open in occupied Paris. Unbeknownst to the Nazi officers he serves night after night, bartender Frank, who is hiding the fact he is Jewish, forms precarious alliances with unlikely accomplices in order to save other Jewish families in the city and keep his loved ones alive.

Boy, I sure do love it when a novel breaks format, and this one does so beautifully.

Various authors write stories through the medium of postcards. Reading this short book made me want to immediately write a postcard to everyone I know! I highly recommend this for anyone who is a fan of the strange and unique. –Kiana

by Philippe Collin

edited by Julian Rothenstein

Dodge City

by Patrick deWitt available in September, hardcover, Ecco

All families are messy, but becuase it is family, we do what we ought to. So when Lee Clarke gets his draft notice for Vietnam, he plans a trip across America to visit his family. In true Patrick deWitt fashion this heart-wrenching tale is told with humor and pure raw heart. This is a great read for everyone. –Kelly E.

14 Fall 2026

Switzy

by Emma Cline available in September, hardcover, Random House

A mesmerizing portrait of an aging man’s last pilgrimage, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Girls and The Guest.

“Cline is a master of depicting the nefarious and atmospheric menace that often lurks adjacent to our most glittery environments.”

—Vogue

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

New Fiction American Hagwon

by Min Jin Lee

available in September, hardcover, Cardinal

The bestselling author of Pachinko returns with a breathtaking contemporary epic: a masterpiece by turns sweeping and intimate, that reckons with ambition and moderation, lust and loyalty, personal dreams and familial duty.

This stunning story follows three generations of Korean families across four continents as they navigate betrayal, displacement, and the shifting promises of a better future. "Min Jin Lee brings grand ambition, fierce heart, and the tenderest hope to a novel I didn't want to end.” –Roxane Gay, bestselling author of Bad Feminist and Hunger

Meet Me in the Garden

by Nina LaCour

available now, hardcover, Flatiron Books

Nina LaCour is one of my longtime favorites and this one is a new highlight!

Odette is part of a respected Creole family and she cannot share her two big secrets: she wants to be an artist and she loves another woman. What unfolds is a woman’s life both big and small: the decisions we make to survive and the choices we make to truly live. –Sarah

The Strangers

by Naomi Alderman available in September, hardcover, Little, Brown

A few months after her mother dies, the novelist Naomi Alderman sets up a wildlife camera in the back garden of her parents’ home.

It captures the first image of a strange new animal. Suddenly these “mimmoths” are as common as foxes or dogs and no one knows where they’ve come from. As Alderman negotiates the territory of grief—a place with its own logic and rhythms—the mimmoths spread. From the UK east and west, to the United States, to Russia, to India. They seem harmless, but oddly intelligent. They cannot be captured, they will not take food from humans, they have their own purposes.

The Wild Beneath

by Kelly Anderson

available in August, hardcover, Park Row Books

A sweeping story glistening with ocean imagery and the unstoppable current of the turmoil of coming of age when everything is going wrong. If you're looking for a beach read with depth, this one is for you.

A love song for the sea and those who feel inexplicably called to it. Hope lies in the wild beneath! –Kiana

Thank You for Shopping Local

Big Little Truths

by Liane Moriarty

available now, hardcover, Crown Publishing Group

I had the absolute pleasure meeting, and introducing Liane Moriarity when Village Books hosted her for her last novel and she is a delight. This sequel to Big Little Lies follows the same core mothers and children ten years later. I was hooked from the very first page, and it has been confirmed there will be a season three of the hit HBO show with all the cast returning! –Kiana

Solace House

by Will Maclean

available in October, hardcover, Grove Press

When the university offers Alex an unusual summer job clearing out a dilapidated Victorian mansion, Solace House, he jumps at the chance. He joins an unlikely crew of students, though he is particularly drawn to mercurial, red-headed Ella. As the students begin sorting through piles of old newspapers and magazines, dusty antiques, and esoteric junk, Alex and Ella become enthralled by the elaborate and eerie journals of the house’s former owner, Edwin Flayne. In these diaries, Flayne details his obsession with his missing mother and his belief in a mysterious realm lying parallel to ours, along with coded instructions on how it might be reached.

The Story Baker

by Carsten Henn

available in October, hardcover, Hanover Square Press

Sometimes healing comes in the most unexpected places. In this case, it comes to forcibly retired ballerina Sofie in the form of Giacomo, the local baker in need of an assistant. Translated from the German bestseller, this charming and heart-warming novel is for anyone who needs reminding that there is wisdom in simple pleasures, and that life is what we choose to make (or bake) it. –Chloe H.

Exit Party

by Emily St. John Mandel available in September, hardcover, Knopf

The award-winning, bestselling author of Station Eleven and Sea of Tranquility returns with a breathtaking novel of doubles, shadow worlds, and fractured timelines as a man disappears from a glittering Los Angeles party, and a woman—a gunrunner, an art collector, an operative of the State—searches for answers.

Fall 2026

15

The Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center’s

Peace Builder Awards presented by

Honoring the individuals and organizations whose dedication to communitybuilding creates lasting, positive change across Whatcom County.

OCTOBER 2, 2026 5:00 - 8:30 PM Silver Reef Casino Resort TICKETS & INFO AT WHATCOMDRC.ORG/PEACE-BUILDER-AWARDS

FEATURING WINNERS OF THE 2026:

YOUTH

Whatcom County youth share what peace means to them through poetry, lyrics, short stories and prose.

Presented by:

PEACE POETRY

CONTEST

16 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Join Whatcom County’s Largest Book Group!

2027

I Cheerfully Refuse

by Leif Enger

Whatcom READS is Northwest Washington’s premier annual literary event. This countywide program celebrates reading, readers, and strong communities through the shared experience of one book.

The 2027 selection is the timely and engaging novel I Cheerfully Refuse by bestselling, award-winning author Leif Enger, whose other novels include Peace Like a River and Virgil Wander.

Village Books donates a portion of proceeds from sales of I Cheerfully Refuse to Whatcom READS through March 2027

Read the book then join us for a series of varied related events taking place throughout the county, including a visit by the author in March 2027.

Visit the Whatcom READS website, WHATCOMREADS.ORG, and social media pages for updates and to find out how to get involved.

Pick up your copy of I Cheerfully Refuse and get started today!

ART CHALLENGE and Exhibit

Allied Arts Gallery, 1213 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, WA

2027

Presented in collaboration with Allied Arts of Whatcom County, the Art Challenge offers artists of all ages and experience levels an opportunity to explore themes related to this year’s Whatcom READS title and to present their work for public display. Watch alliedarts.org for updates.

Whatcom READS is presented by the public and academic libraries in Bellingham and Whatcom County – Bellingham Public Library, Bellingham Technical College, Northwest Indian College, Western Washington University, Whatcom Community College and Whatcom County Library System. Village Books is Whatcom READS’ community partner.

Local writers of all ages! Explore the theme Light in the Dark as inspired by the 2027 read, I Cheerfully Refuse. One entry per person, 1,500-word limit. Original poetry, fiction and non-fiction are welcome. No previously published material will be accepted. Top entries will be selected for publication in the 2027 Whatcom WRITES anthology.

Copies of anthologies from previous years are available now at Village Books!

Light in the Dark

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Submission deadline is Sunday, October 11, 2026 • whatcomreads.org Fall 2026

17

Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses MIDNIGHT

RELEASE PARTIES

The Evening of October 26

Release is at midnight October 27, 12am - details coming soon!

#6 - A Court of Splintered Harmony The next two books in the beloved A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series by the international bestselling Sarah J. Maas are on their way! To celebrate, we will be throwing release parties for BOTH titles. A team of fellow ACOTAR fans are planning two fun-filled evenings of contests, costumes, trivia, treats, and more!

For those who may not know, Sarah J. Maas is the #1 bestselling author of not only the Court of Thorns and Roses series, but also the interconnected book universes Throne of Glass AND Crescent City series. Her books have sold more than seventy-five million copies and are published in forty languages. Her blend of high-stakes fantasy plots with intense emotional and romantic relationships helped mainstream and define the modern romantasy movement. Join us in celebrating these highly anticipated additions to ACOTAR's world.

Event tickets will include copies of the book. Note—author not attending.

Evening of January 11

Release Party

Book #7 - A Court of Forgotten Melody

Books distributed at midnight Tuesday, January 12, 2027

The Knave and the Moon

Pre-order Your Copy Today!

by Rachel Gillig

available in September, hardcover, Orbit

The stunning conclusion to Sarah Hawley's darkly enchanting Shards of Magic series will be released in December. Pre-order your copy from Village Books to receive a SIGNED COPY & EXCLUSIVE ARTWORK. (while supplies last!)

Save the Date

BOOK RELEASE PARTY Monday, December 7, 6pm

Pre-order your book while registering for the event!

18 Fall 2026

Save the Date!

Rachel Gillig, the queen of gothic romantasy, returns with higher stakes, darker mys t e r i e s , a n d d e e p e r longings in this gorgeous sequel to the #1 New York Times bestselling sensation The Knight and the Moth.

❤❤ Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Paul Recommends Anyone who's endured my recommendations of my favorite fantasy books has heard me talk of Black-Tongued Thief and Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell.

(If you've not and you're curious, ask me!) I'm thrilled that both writers have new sequels / prequels out this season that I can, again, most heartily endorse.

The Bishop of Durham Attempts to Surrender the City

by Susanna Clarke

available in October, hardcover, Bloomsbury

For those curious about the origin story of the Raven King or simply craving another dip into the deep pool of English fae that Clarke has concocted, then you're sure to relish this tale set 700 years before Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell. Kelly and I spent a few days in Newcastle (or New Castle) this summer and it's an apt setting for this short and bewitching illustrated tale, worthy of the Clarke canon. –Paul

The Thrice-Bound Fool

by Christopher Buehlman

available in October, hardcover, Tor Books

Before Buehlman, I'd never consider combining "epic" with "rollicking" as descriptors of a fantasy novel. But his storytelling is masterful and flawless, his world-building vast, intricate, and original, and his characters are as true as they come—yes, with bawdy humor accompanying them. Little did I expect that at the end of all these world-saving, swashbuckling, and awe-inspiring adventures, it would bring genuine tears to my eyes at the end. There's so much heart in it, I hugged this mischievous book when I finished it. –Paul

Kiss of the Black Flame

by Helen Scheuerer

Fantasy & Science Fiction Victorious

by V.E. Schwab available in October, hardcover, Tor Books

The triumphant conclusion to the Villains trilogy! The ExtraOrdinary of Merit City, a secret group of individuals gifted with a power connected to their manner of neardeath experience, have been keeping a low profile, avoiding the ever-watchful eye of EON. But when EON begins to change under the leadership of a new director with a terrifying agenda, the time for hiding is over. Against all the years, the betrayals, and the odd, the arch rivals and their allies will meet for a final time, on a chess board laid out by a rival they didn’t expect.

Daggerbound

by T. Kingfisher

available now, hardcover, Bramble

I am obsessed with T. Kingfisher. Occurring in the same "World of the White Rat" universe as Swordheart, this novel follows the adventures of Learned Edmund and the Dervish, who is bound to, you guessed it, a dagger. Kingfisher's humor, warmth, lovable characters, and unique storytelling are very much present, and I recommend this light and lovely read for anyone feeling like our actual universe is a bit on the heavy side. –Erin

Strangebrew Apothecary

by Rustin Lovewell

available in September, hardcover, Hanover Square Press

Ellastaria Strange joins a ragtag crew of conartists and serpent-oil salesmen. Unlike her crooked co-workers, she's the real thing; an apothecary with supernatural abilities, hiding from a world fearful of such powers, covertly helping people when she can. On the run from obsessed vigilantes, Ella and her crew find refuge with a beer brewer who wants nothing to do with crooks or occultists, and his starry-eyed sister who wants in on all of it.

Shop & browse 24/7 at villagebooks.com

available in September, hardcover, Atria

Saige Grayson has always believed stories can heal—even when her own body refuses to. As the most promising bookbinder in the capital, she’s learned to work through chronic pain and crushing debt, restoring other people’s treasures while trying not to fall apart herself. But when the man she owes decides her rare talent is worth more than her payments, Saige is traded to the Azkari. Her only chance of survival lies with Archer, a fallen Azkari general imprisoned beside her.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

19

Science Fiction & Fantasy The Splintered Sun

by Tad Williams

Join us in Welcoming Legendary Fantasy Author

available in October, hardcover, DAW

Bestselling author Tad Williams delivers a thrilling new tale set in his legendary world of Osten Ard, set 300 years before the events of The Dragonbone Chair of the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn series. A fearless bandit and his band of misfit rebels navigate a kingdom menaced by dark sorcery and war in this fast-moving epic fantasy by an author who inspired a generation of fantasy authors, among them George R. R. Martin, Brandon Sanderson, Patrick Rothfuss, and Christopher Paolini.

Lies Weeping:

A Chronicle of the Black Company Book One of the Pitiless Rain

by Glen Cook

available in October, paperback,Tor Books

The Black Company is back, but things have changed a bit. The new world they have found looks promising except for some slightly more intelligent apes than they thought, a legend that remembers their ancestors-badly, and an ex-god who seems to have a plan he told no one about. The first of a new trilogy that continues the history of the Black Company, Croaker, Lady and Soulcatcher as they all attempt to remember Lady’s true name and figure out what the glittering plane really is. –Troy

TAD WILLIAMS Wednesday, October 7, 6pm at Village Books in Fairhaven Register today at villagebooks.com

As You Wake, Break the Shell

by Becky Chambers

available in October, hardcover, Harper Voyager

As You Wake, Break the Shell is an incredibly poignant story of life and love after Earth. Cora and Signy are two of Becky's most relatable characters yet, and the story of their found family (space whale included) will make you shed more than a few tears. This tale will also fill you with hope for the future of humanity, even if our beautiful planet isn't in the picture anymore. –Kellen

The Sea-Glass Shore

by Julie Salmon Kelleher

The Divine Gardener’s Handbook: Or What

To Do If Your Girlfriend Accidentally Turns Off the Sun

by Eli Snow

available now, hardcover, St. Martin's

If you loved the Locked Tomb series, then this one is for you! Having spent years climbing up out of isolation to the enviable position of gardener in the Divine Gardens, Cyprin quickly learns that the head gardener, Purcell, is the worst. As they each take every opportunity to oneup each other through a combination of talent and dumb luck, the impossible happens (see subtitle) and the two must work together (or not) to not only figure out the truth of the Gardens and the Divine, but to also keep their city from disaster. Chaotic, thrilling, and devious in every way. –Chloe H.

available in September, paperback, Forest Avenue Press

Jack knows all selkie stories end the same: the seal-woman finds her stolen skin and leaves.

But he hasn’t stolen Rona’s skin, and they both believe their relationship is different. Making a family together seems easy and obvious until time, children, and a threat to Rona’s home shore endanger everything they’ve promised to each other. Set in a mythic, contemporary Pacific Northwest shaped by Native and European storytelling, artist communes, and corporate fakelore, The Sea-Glass Shore is a domestic fable about the power of the past and the making of a daily present.

Meet the Author Tuesday, September 1, 6pm

JULIE SALMON KELLEHER at Village Books in Fairhaven Register today at villagebooks.com

Staff Picks!

Enjoy bookseller recommendations — in store and at villagebooks.com 20 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Science Fiction & Fantasy Scion

by James Islington available in September, hardcover, Saga Press

Lifers—rich people who can pay to live forever —are subject to being legally hunted. Which means poor people, like Azure, are doing the hunting. This cyberpunk thriller is John Wick meets Blade Runner with a dash of Ghost in the Shell. "Full of fierce energy and razor-sharp writing, Scion sketches a terrifyingly enjoyable world to get lost in" –Jeremy Szal, Stormblood

Twelve Months

A Novel of the Dresden Files

Carl's Doomsday Scenario (Dungeon Crawler Carl #2)

by Matt Dinniman

available now, paperback, Ace Books

The paperback release of book two in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series! Class selection, race selection, more spells, more Carl, more Mordecai, and more Princess Donut. The group has finally escaped the first two tutorial levels and they quickly find out that level three, "The Over City", is full of bigger threats like killer clowns, spooky elves, and a continued middle finger to the late-stage capitalism that has destroyed our lovely planet. –Kellen

by Jim Butcher

available now, paperback, Ace

Dresden has been through hell. Literally.

With Chicago destroyed by a titan he must rebuild: rebuild his city, his family, and himself. This book is a great way to get reintroduced to the Dresden Files. Quite a bit of time has passed since the climax of the previous series and over a decade later Jim Butcher brings back one of my favorite wizards in grand style setting up a chance to be reintroduced to Harry Dresden, Wizard as the stage is set for a show down with the elder gods. –Troy

Saltcrop

by Yume Kitasei available in September, paperback, Tor Books

Skipper, a skilled sailor and the youngest of three sisters, earns money skimming and reselling plastic from the ocean to care for her ailing grandmother. But then her eldest sister, Nora, goes missing. When Skipper and her other sister, Carmen, receive a cryptic plea for help, they must put aside their differences and set out across the sea to find—and save—her.

Portrait of a Witch Undone

by K. S. Shay

available now, hardcover, Erewhon Books

Art heists, and witches, and marshes, oh my! In this compelling take on the (reallife) infamous heist of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Shay marries it with a fresh take on witches and what happens when you take stepping into a painting (almost) literally. With fierce female friendships and a haunting marshland this is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a witchy novel! –Caitriona

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

The Rouse

by China Miéville available in September, hardcover, Del Rey

Maur’s life has been shaped by loss: an apparently ordinary tragedy. But in its aftermath deeper, stranger questions arise.

So begins a book unlike any other: at once an encyclopedic and multitudinous saga of a bloody century and the intimate story of two lives, their loves, regrets, and secrets—and a terrifying journey into infinite mystery.

Automatic Noodle

by Annalee Newitz

available now, paperback, Tor

This small science fiction novel comes packed to the brim with humor and heart.

Several robots decide to break from their programmed use to become restaurateurs.

Newitz always manages to include such a wide and diverse array of characters in a natural way that feels true to life. Fans of Becky Chambers, TJ Klune, or just noodles, will delight in this read! –Kiana

Makeshift

by Peter Rock

available now, hardcover, Soft Skull

Abandoned on a remote island known as Makeshift, three sisters believe they’re the last humans on Earth. But when they stray beyond the island into a wider, broken world, they find that life may not be as they believed.

And upon their return to the island, they face further revelations that strain their bonds, hint that secrets may be everywhere, and affirm their need for one another in the face of a perilous future.

Fall 2026

21

Mystery and Suspense Miss Wolcott’s Ghost

Raven

available in October, hardcover, Minotaur Books

available in October, hardcover, Mysterious Press

A late-night phone call with a one sentence message–“There’s a body in Lost Nation”— opens the next chapter in Inspector Gamache’s investigations. As the ghosts begin to gather, Gamache and his team, with the help of the other villagers of Three Pines, realize that the body is far from the only death. To solve the crime and avert catastrophe they must look to rancid secrets and old lies no longer dead and buried.

Taking a job as a paid companion, Raven arrives at the crumbling Moldavia Manor.

Her charge is a delicate young invalid named Lenore Legrand who haunts the Gothic structure like a phantom. Living with them is Lenore’s devoted older cousin Trevanion, who shares Raven’s interest in the occult and devotes his days to searching ancient texts for an Elixir of Life that might cure his cousin. Raven finds herself inexorably drawn to both cousins as well as to the secrets hidden in the shadows of Moldavia Manor.

by Louise Penny

by Lyndsay Faye

London Station

Meet the Author Sunday, October 18, 6pm

by David McCloskey

available in September, hardcover, W.W. Norton

A new U.S. administration has installed a brash, unconventional CIA director skeptical of old alliances and determined to disrupt the Agency. When the axe falls on the chief of London Station, an agency veteran decides to spy for the Brits—a betrayal uncovered by his replacement, Artemis Aphrodite Procter.

Caught between a turncoat spymaster and a ruthless new boss back at Langley, Procter must now navigate a tense environment as old friends become adversaries and no one knows whom to trust.

at Village Books in Fairhaven

LYNDSAY FAYE Register today at villagebooks.com

We Chase Shadows:

A We Solve Murders Mystery

by Richard Osman

available in September, hardcover, Pamela Dorman Books

“I love, love, love Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series and was devastated to learn he was taking a pause to allow his senior citizen stars a minute to recover from solving four murders in four years. But I’m happy to say We Solve Murders is a worthy follow-up. Part of a whole new series, this story features a security guard and her retired police-officer father-in-law as protagonists, and together they’re just as endearing and funny as the Thursday group.” —ELLE

VB READS

Book Groups Everywhere Life Takes Me

Village Books hosts multiple book groups that read and discuss a variety of genres. See page 68-69 to find a group that works for you. Watch villagebooks.com for meeting times and reading selections. All are welcome!

Before You Were Anne

by Emiko Jean

available in September, hardcover, Simon & Schuster

Historic Fairhaven 1204 Harris Ave. 360.733.2066 12thstreetshoes.com

22 Fall 2026

After a woman is killed and her daughter vanishes, detective Chelsey Calhoun uncovers a legacy of violence and survival that spans from Japan to Seattle in this propulsive novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Return of Ellie Black.

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Horror

Nightjars

by Michael Wehunt available in September, hardcover, St. Martin’s Press

One rainy night on a first date, Luke Oshel’s new crush never comes back from the restroom.

But she leaves an old photograph under her napkin—Luke as a child, a dead body in the shadows of his bedroom, and a terrifying masked man. He has no recollection of this event. Then more photos disrupt his life—Luke posing with murder victims, covered in blood— and he falls back into the deep paranoia and repressed memories he’s tried to leave behind. All the drugs and alcohol, therapy, and hypnosis sessions have never conquered his deepest fear—that he hasn’t escaped the hidden legacy of his father, who killed his victims by exsanguination before his own death. But now there is a new string of serial killings, and the evidence all points to Luke.

Back for Blood:

Never Whistle at Night Part II edited by Shane Hawk and Theodore C. Van Alst Jr. available now, paperback, Vintage

The team that brought you the bestselling dark fiction anthology Never Whistle at Night has risen, hungry, from the grave to summon more dark delicacies for your delectation. In these 21 brand-new stories—authored by both established and newly unearthed Indigenous talent and illustrated by renowned Cheyenne and Arapaho painter Brent Learned—the contributors are fully embracing horror: both supernatural horrors and the everyday horror of living under colonialist rule.

Mothersucker

by Kim Bohyun, translated by Archana Madhavan available in September, paperback, Vintage

A chilling international debut following a vampire who targets men who have harmed women—in the present, past, and future—and the woman-led task force entrusted with solving the murders. "A haunting portrait of grief and pain and the lengths a mother will go to to protect her child." —Monika Kim, author of Molka and The Eyes Are the Best Part.

Book Orders

Not on the shelves? No problem!

Let us get it for you.

Thank You for Shopping Local

It Looks Like You in the Dark

by Mathilda Zeller

available in October, hardcover, Tor Nightfire

Tapeesa is newly out of high school and working in a fish processing plant in the Inupiat village, where she’s lived her whole life. Maybe that’s why people tend to assume she isn’t that bright—or maybe her mama is right and she does have bad blood. Either way, she knows the legend, and she knows the history. Her Ahna told her that the hungry creature—the kushtuka—appears to us in the form of someone we love. It will try to get us to follow it. Follow it where? Those who have gone no longer have throats to tell us.

Atomic Coffin

by Benedict Anning

available in October, paperback, Saga Press

Get ready for a dive . . . into hell! After a deep cover agent in East Berlin uncovers the existence of a mysterious Russian submarine she finds herself on a mission to uncover its secrets. A mission that encounters something much stranger than expected.

And soon goes very, very wrong. Perhaps best described as 'Tom Clancy goes to the nightmare dimension,' this is an excellent horror/thriller debut!

–Adelaide

Something Followed Us Home:

Tales of Latiné Horror edited by Cynthia Pelayo

available in September, paperback, Primero Sueño Press

Gathering chilling work from some of today’s most acclaimed Latiné voices, this horror anthology moves through haunted households, brutal landscapes, sacred spaces turned dangerous, and bodies claimed by forces both ancient and intimate. Something Followed Us Home is an unnerving, visceral, and impossible-to-shake collection that proves that what is carried forward does not remain quiet, and what follows us rarely leaves without taking something in return.

• in person seven days a week • by phone: Fairhaven - 360.671.2626 and Lynden - 360.526.2133 • or shop 24 hours a day online at villagebooks.com Fall 2026

23

VB WRITES...

WRITING GROUPS

Open To Newc

omers!

Are you a writer in search of a writing group?

Come meet other writers who can help you get organized, give feedback, and help you with your writing goals. These groups are free and open to newcomers and drop-ins.

With the exception of the Lynden group, these groups meet at Village Books in Fairhaven in either the Writers Corner or Readings Gallery.

NOTE: Individual group schedules may change — check villagebooks.com for updates.

QUEER POETS SOCIETY

SPECULATIVE FICTION:

ALL WELCOME

Meets 3rd Sundays from 10:30am-Noon

PLOT and DEVELOPMENT Meets 1st & 3rd Sundays, 3:30pm-5:30pm

at Village Books in Fairhaven - in the Readings Gallery

Meets in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

FICTION

MORNING POETRY GROUP

Meets 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 6-8pm in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 10:30am-noon in the Readings Gallery

FICTION & MEMOIR

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 6-8pm in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

WRITING FROM PROMPTS Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 10:30am-noon in the Readings Gallery

SPECULATIVE FICTION I

Read full descriptions and expectations for each group at villagebooks.com.

Please note that scheduling changes do occur.

Watch the events calendar at villagebooks.com for updates.

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6pm-8pm in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

SPECULATIVE FICTION II

Meets 2nd & 4th Sundays, 3:30pm-5:30pm

EVENING POETRY GROUP Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 5:30pm-7pm in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

NONFICTION & MEMOIR

2nd & 4th Tuesdays from 9:30am-11am in the Readings Gallery

SIT DOWN AND WRITE Every Friday 9:15am-11:00am

Meets in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine A place to work in quiet, but in tacit silent support, with other writers.

in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

LYNDEN WRITING GROUP Meets 2nd Wednesdays, 7-9pm

in the Waples Room of the Inn at Lynden - adjacent to Village Books & Paper Dreams, Lynden. Read more on page 35.

CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK CRITIQUE GROUP Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 6pm-7:30pm in the Writers Corner on the mezzanine

Sign up for our Just Write! eNewsletter, a monthly publication highlighting current classes, tips and tricks, writing book reviews and the like!

Questions? Contact writing@villagebooks.com

24 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Chuckanut Writers Classes for Your Writing Life Village Books and WCC Community & Continuing Education offer a writing instruction collaboration called Chuckanut Writers. These programs are designed to inspire and encourage writers at all stages of their writing journey. Check out these upcoming classes and see whatcomcommunityed.com for details, prices, and registration.

WhaMemWriMo

Write Your Memoir in September

Since 2014, September has been declared Whatcom Memoir Writing Month (WhaMemWriMo)! Throughout the month, you are encouraged to write 1,666 words every day, resulting in 50,000 words of your memoir—a book—by the end of September.

Led by experienced memoir writers and teachers, Village Books and Whatcom Community College offer a variety of workshops and classes to support you along the way. Pre-registration is required. See whatcomcommunityed.com for details and registration information.

Wednesday, September 2, 5:30pm-7:30pm From Images to Memoir Writing with Shoshana Kerewsky

Thursday, September 10, 9am-12pm The Heart & Soul of Memoir Writing with Jennifer Wilhoit

Village Books Readings Gallery, Fairhaven $39

Virtual Classroom - on Zoom $59

Saturday, September 5, 10am-noon Writing Your Memoir: A Primer with Nancy Lou Canyon

Sunday, September 20, 1pm-3pm Building Your Memoir with Visual Aids with Lisa Spicer

Monday, September 7, 5:30pm-7:30pm How to Make Characters Out of People You Know with Melissa Johnson

Tuesday, September 22, 5:30pm-7:30pm Cross-Pollination: Integrating Poetry into Memoir with Jessica Gigot

Village Books Readings Gallery, Fairhaven $39

Village Books Readings Gallery, Fairhaven $39

Pre-registration Required

Village Books Readings Gallery, Fairhaven $39

Village Books Readings Gallery, Fairhaven $39

Turn the page for additional Fall Chuckanut Writers Classes

Read More And Reserve Your Space at

whatcomcommunityed.com You can also register by calling 360-383-3200 FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Class sizes are limited don't delay!

Fall 2026

25

Chuckanut Writers Classes for Your Writing Life

Nature Writing with Melissa Johnson

Writing Children's Books with Rebecca Van Slyke

Thursdays, Sept. 24-Oct. 8, 6pm-8pm WCC Cascade Hall (3 sessions) $119

Tuesdays, Oct. 6-27, 6pm-8pm WCC Kelly Hall. (4 sessions) $169

Anatomy of a Scene for Stage or Screen with Allison Gallant

Writing for Lifestyle Magazines with Anne Putnam Saturday, October 17, 9:30am-12:30pm Village Books in Fairhaven (1 session) $65

Wednesdays, Sept. 30-Nov. 4, 6pm-8pm WCC Kelly Hall. (6 sessions) $259

Writing Into More Than Human World with Pam Houston

Getting Started with Poetry: A Craft and Writing Workshop with Barbara Bloom

Friday, October 23, 10am-noon Village Books in Fairhaven (1 session) $45

Wednesdays, Sept. 30-Nov. 4, 10am-12pm WCC Foundation Building (6 sessions) $259

Pam Houston will be the guest author at the Thursday, October 22 Chuckanut Radio Hour - tickets available now!

Short Stories: What Every Writer Should Know with Spencer Ellsworth

Marketing for Authors Who Just Want to Write with Gail Noble-Sanderson

Saturdays, Oct. 3 & 10, 10am-12pm Village Books in Fairhaven (2 sessiosn) $79

Saturday, November 7, 10am-noon Village Books in Fairhaven (1 session) $45

Details & registration at whatcomcommunityed.com / 360-383-3200

The Power of Books!

The Bookshop Woman:

My Year Transforming Lives— One Book at a Time

by Nanako Hanada, translated by Cat Anderson

available in September, hardcover, Tiny Reparations Books

Nanako Hanada is a passionate book lover who manages the Village Vanguard, an iconically eccentric bookstore in Tokyo. Lonely after her divorce, Nanako finds the meet-up site Perfect Strangers. Perfect Strangers isn’t a dating site—it’s where people meet for 30-minute bursts to find friendship, romance, build a network, or just share ideas. In the ensuing year, Nanako meets hundreds of people, a ragtag range of strangers who happen to believe in the power of a great book.

Receipts From the Bookshop:

A Bookseller's Year in an English Seaside Town

by Katie Clapham

available in September, hardcover, William Morrow and Co

Clapham recounts a year spent selling books in her small independent bookstore in England. This is one of those perfect, sweet reads that is presented in small snippets you can read all of in a day, or savor it whenever you have a few minutes to spare. Thrown in are real quotes overheard from customers that she writes down, which is something I myself do as a bookseller! –Kiana

"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."

–L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

26 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

The 2026 Chuckanut

Writers Conference

In The Books!

New this year ­— Pre-conference Masterclasses are open to the public!

In late June, writers from near and far descended on Bellingham for our annual weekend of connection, inspiration, and learning at the 2026 Chuckanut Writers Conference. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, presented, volunteered, and otherwise made this event come to life.

Another

"It was a wonderful conference. The tone set for the weekend was perfection—inspiring and supportive. It was a delight to be part of all the fun!" –2026 Faculty Member "Oh my gosh - it was all amazing. I soaked it up like a very dry sponge!" –Attendee

"Inspiring, thoughtprovoking, and practical.

Loved it - and I learned so much!" –Attendee

Registration for 2027 will open later this year...stay tuned!

"I had an absolute blast. The event was wonderfully run, the sessions and talks were great, but most importantly the vibe was amazing. Everyone involved was so approachable, open, friendly, and generous.

It's the new connections with other authors that will be the most long-lasting."

–2026 Faculty Member

Presented by

chuckanutwritersconference.com

2026 Village Books

Literary Citizenship Award On June 26th, we gathered to celebrate the recipients of the 2026 Village Books Literary Citizenship Awards­. Now in its fourth year, the award was presented to three deserving individuals who have each demonstrated a commitment to engage with the literary community with the intent of giving as much, if not more, than they receive.

Congratulations again to 2026 award recipients Laura Kalpakian, Shannon P. Laws, and Molly McNulty.

In their own unique ways, they have each demonstrated the virtues that embody a good Literary Citizen. For this, we awarded $1000 to each of them and inducted them into the Village Books Literary Citizen Hall of Fame which is 2026 award recipients Molly McNulty, Laura Kalpakian, displayedSee in Village Books, Fairhaven. villagebooks.com to learn more about all the honorees andbytheir and Shannon P. Laws are joined VBPD Owners contributions to our Paul literary community.

Hanson & Kelly Evert at the 2026 award ceremony.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

27

Committed to strong community journalism Proudly telling stories about the people, businesses and organizations doing good things around Whatcom County

Volunteers are Where the Heart Is Be part of a community helping older adults to stay active and independent at home

Volunteer assistance Friends and activities Mutual support BellinghamAtHome.org 360 746-3462 A program of the Whatcom Council on Aging

28 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

In the KITCHEN We Use What We Have: 101 Easy Weeknight Meals

by Alex MacLaren

available now, hardcover, Countryman Press

With her playful spirit and lovingly chaotic home life, Alex MacLaren has captured the hearts of parents everywhere. From elevating inexpensive cuts of meat to employing her secret weapon—cheese— she’s mastered the art of balancing her budget and schedule with the joy of family mealtime. Packed with more than 100 flexible, flavor-packed recipes, this book is a lifeline for busy households, picky eaters, and anyone staring into the fridge wondering, “What’s for dinner?”

Greek Odysea: Flavours of Greece from Pantry to Plate

by Odysea Limited

available now, hardcover, Quadrille

Greek Odysea is a celebration of the soulful simplicity of Greek cooking. With more than 70 recipes, this beautifully designed book showcases the country’s iconic pantry staples—olive oil, feta, honey, tomatoes, yoghurt, and more—brought together in dishes that are seasonal, generous, and full of flavor. Alongside the recipes are stunning travel photographs to drool over. So turn up Mamma Mia and do some cooking.

Sheet Cakes!:

More Than 50 Exceptional Cakes to Make in One Pan

by Zola Gregory

available now, hardcover, Workman Publishing

Through fifty-one nostalgic, unique, and downright delicious recipes, Sheet Cakes! teaches how to use the humble sheet pan to its full potential—crafting not only no-fuss single-layer rectangles, but roll-up cakes, and layered cakes, too.

Vegetarian

Love and Lemons Pop of Flavor: 100 Saucy, Spicy, Crunchy, Herby, Tangy Recipes for Craveable Everyday Cooking

by Jeanine Donofrio

available in October, hardcover, Avery

Whether it’s something hot and peppery, zingy and light, or crispy and crunchy, Jeanine Donofrio, creator of the wildly successful Love & Lemons blog, has developed the perfect formula to deliver maximum flavor. In Love & Lemons Pop of Flavor, Jeanine encourages you to let your cravings be your guide when cooking. This is Love & Lemons at its most imaginative, flexible, and flavor packed.

Cheesy: 50 Boards & Recipes, from Fondue & Poutine to Grilled Cheese & Cheesecake

by Farideh Sadeghin photographs by Justin Walker

available in September, hardcover, Chronicle Books

Recipes and board inspiration to make anyone say cheese! Did you know 68% of adults consume cheese on any given day?

Or that the average American consumes 40-42 pounds of cheese every year? Well now you do. And this book will help you consume up to 60 pounds a year.

Cookbooking:

A Fan's Guide

by Debbie Berne

available now, hardcover, Hardie Grant Books

To quote our rep Stacey, “flippin’flapjacks, this is SUCH a fun feast of cookbook love and lore!” Even in this age of TikTok, cooking videos, cookbooks are still very popular and adored. Author Debbie Berne is the designer of over 100 cookbooks. She researched, wrote, and designed this labor of love celebrating the art of the cookbook. A wonderful gift for the cook. -Kelly E.

Coffee Shop at Home:

The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Favorite Coffee Drinks

by Katerina Diaz

available now, hardcover, Ten Speed

Say goodbye to your pricey coffee shop habit with the ultimate beginner's guide to making delicious, creative lattes, mochas, cold brews, and more at home—with 60 recipes for your favorite classic and seasonal drinks plus approachable info about the basics of brewing.

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

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29

September Eat Local MOnth

Eat Local, Support Local Look for this window decal at shops and restaurants 30 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Next Chapter Café Inside Village Books in Fairhaven Located on the mezzanine level of Village Books in Fairhaven, the Next Chapter Café provides a delicious selection of handcrafted pastries, comforting Filipino cuisine, artisan sandwiches, and local organic coffee.

We prioritize using the freshest ingredients, and working with other local businesses to bring a little magic to our menu. Come and enjoy!

Quality Ingredients

Classes & Socials Next Chapter Café is hosting a variety of community events and workshops this fall and winter.

Watch nextchapterbham.com for updates!

Meanwhile, join us at the regularly scheduled Silent Book Club reading nights at 5:30pm on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month.

Scan the QR code to find events details, the menu, and more!

Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm | Sundays 10am-8pm | nextchapterbham.com

Get Social Find staff book & gift favorites, new arrivals, author events, specials, recommendations and much more.

Follow Us!

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Stay in the Know!

Like Us! Go to facebook.com/VillageBooks & facebook.com/VillageBooksLynden

Find Us

Bluesky @villagebookswa.bsky.social Fall 2026

31

CONNECTION

|

COLLABORATION

Join us for Happy Hour!

|

CELEBRATION

A historic Inn offering luxury guest rooms and spaces to meet, celebrate, and connect.

Weekdays 2:30pm to 5:30pm

www.innatlynden.com 100 5th Street, Lynden, WA 360/746-8597

Enjoy Our Seasonal Cockatail Menu

1FREE

BUYT GE

Right now if you sign up for a NEW subscription, you’ll receive the second year FREE!*

Visit lyndentribune.com and save $48 when you purchase any new two year Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record subscription using the code WELOVEOURSUBSCRIBERS All Your Favorites

*Free second year applies to new two year in-county subscribers only. Out-of-county or out-of-state new two year subscribers save $48. Includes online access.

360.354.4444 32 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Village Books and Paper Dreams

LYNDEN In the Waples Mercantile Building, Downtown Lynden

Happy

10th Anniversary to the Restored Waples Mercantile Building

Located on Front Street in downtown Lynden, WA, the historic Waples Mercantile Building was built in 1914 by town founder Billy Waples, and housed the iconic Lynden Department Store.

After a 2008 fire, it was beautifully restored and reopened in 2016.

It is now occupied by the Inn at Lynden boutique hotel, local shops including Village Books & Paper Dreams and Cheeks Jeans, as well as popular stops Avenue Bread and Overflow Taps.

New this year, the Inn added an events and gathering space that is available to the public to rent. Stop by and check us out!

Open Daily! Lynden Hours: Sun-Tue: 10am-5pm • Wed-Sat: 10am-7pm 430 Front St., Lynden, WA • 360. 526.2133 • villagebooks.com FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

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33

It's All Happening In Lynden!

September 12, 4pm-10pm • Downtown Lynden Whiskey l Street Vendors l Music l Food l Beer Garden Get ready for the 2026 Lynden Whiskey Event, a delightful event spanning downtown Lynden. Yes, Lynden! Participating businesses (including Village Books!) will host local distilleries who will offer a wide selection of whiskeys tastings, with some also offering other spirits like vodka and wine. Whiskey tickets include five tasting tokens and also come with fantastic perks: a commemorative shot glass, a wristband, and access to the Main Stage concerts on 5th street. For those interested in just the concerts, concert-only tickets are available. Meanwhile, stop by the store and check out our whiskey wares!

Check for details and ticket availability at lyndenwhiskeyevent.com Ticket purchases support the Lynden Music Festival!

October 8-12 • Downtown Lynden The mission of the annual Lynden Music Festival is to uplift the human spirit through musical experiences with a variety of musical genres that entertain, educate, and inspire. Mission accomplished! During this five-day Music Festival, you can enjoy a variety of performances all around Lynden with everything from classical, jazz, bluegrass, gospel and country to pop, rock and R&B, On October 10, enjoy the music and magic of ABBA with touring artist ABRA Cadabra—the featured artist this year! Don't miss out.

Watch for details & tickets at lyndenmusicfestival.com

Saturday, September 12, 10am-4pm

Whatcom County Farm Tour sustainableconnections.org

Celebrate

Saturdays through September 26, 10am-2pm

Lynden Farmers Market lyndenfarmersmarket.com

HALLOWEEN!

At Village Books & Paper Dreams in Lynden Saturday, October 31, 11am

HALLOWEEN DRESS UP Story Time!

Join us for a special story time with a Halloween twist!

We'll enjoy some not-too-spooky tales before parading around the building to show off our costumes and maybe pick up a treat or two!

KIDS!

See Pages 61 & 63 for Fairhaven Events for Kids 34 Fall 2026

Friday, October 30, 2-5pm

The Great Lynden

Trick or "Dutch Treat" Stop by Village Books and Paper Dreams in Lynden to show off your costumes and grab a treat during this annual community trick-or-treat event.

Watch for participating Lynden Chamber of Commerce member businesses throughout town.

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Author Events

IN LYNDEN

Lynden LIVE!

EVENTS

Unless otherwise noted, Lynden LitLive author events take place at the Inn at Lynden in the conference room—adjacent to Village Books and Paper Dreams. Seating is limited.

Register to attend at villagebooks.com.

Saturday, October 3, 4pm DAVE BENEDICT –Bill's War

Saturday, September 26, 4pm KARL PETERSEN –Left Unsaid Join us in Lynden for author Karl Petersen as he discusses his coming of age novel that takes place in the 1960s. Can love truly survive all else? Left Unsaid confronts questions of sexuality, masculinity, race, faith, and war. A compelling, must-read story with profound significance for our times. Karl Petersen teaches English at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

He has published two poetry collections, a childhood memoir, and two young adult novels. He is passionate about the natural world, social justice, and theology.

Ferndale author Dave Benedict will join us in Lynden to discuss his haunting biographical novel, Bill's War, which shows us the terrifying reality of a soldier's mental health and the power of human kindness. Based on the true story of Lt. Bill Gump, a young Army Air Corps pilot whose promising life was shattered by battle-induced schizophrenia during World War II, this haunting story offers a contemporary message about the power of everyday human kindness and meeting the needs right in front of us. Dave Benedict has worked as a wildfire smokechaser, a public-school teacher, and as pastor to congregations in Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, and Washington state.

Saturday, October 24, 4pm S.W. LAWRENCE –Fossil Dragon: Energy Systems—The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Join S.W. Lawrence in Lynden to celebrate his newest climate-fiction book, the opening act in the Trilogy of Dragons, where Jake Harper is in his last year of a graduate degree in electrical engineering in our nation’s capital. He is staunchly promoting the “electrification of everything” to address the weirding climate. His partner, Abbey London, is completing her infectious disease fellowship. Her climate concern is dealing with the burgeoning threat of tropical and exotic diseases. Together they operate her parents’ Dragonfly Inn in nearby Virginia. Meanwhile, three women plot an audacious attack on a key federal building. In a clown car. Find out how these worlds collide by joining us on October 24.

Saturday, November 14, 4pm Save the Date!

GREG BOOS –Smuggler: Drugs, Gangs, and Refugees at America's Northern Border

See pages 68-78 for additional events, book groups, and more!

Lynden Writing Group

September 9 • October 14 November 11

2nd Wednesdays at 7pm What we are: A safe space to read your work out loud for feedback; an opportunity to gain insight and ideas for furthering your writing project. This group is about nurturing the writer, reflecting on their work and offering ideas or suggestions, or simply listening and encouraging.

All Welcome!

What we are not: A class or critic's circle.

Facilitated by Mary Roy, we meet every 2nd Wednesday of the month from 7pm-9pm.

Location: adjacent to Village Books in the Inn at Lynden Waples Room–enter through the Inn side entrance.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

35

r y s e t s tim KIDS

Lynden

Saturdays at 11am First Saturdays of each Month

Village Books & Paper Dreams

Dino Stories with Jagger

VB's own Troy Luginbill and his puppet pal Jagger will entertain the little ones with a half hour of dinosaur-themed stories and fun! Bring your own stuffed dino to snuggle!

September 5 • October 3 • November 7 Third Saturday Story Times

Saturdays September 19 • October 17 November 21

Read to a Dog Village Books in Lynden is excited to offer this fuzzy friendly story time where THE KIDS do all the reading...

TO OUR WONDERFUL GUEST DOGS! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturdays, September 26 & November 28

Story Time with a

FIRE FIGHTER Special Saturdays

Stop by Story Time in Fairhaven Tuesdays at 11am

Join a member of the Lynden Fire Department as they sit down with the kiddos for a very special story time. Don’t miss out!

Stories & Songs with Gaye

Join Gaye for a half hour of stories and songs at this special MUSICAL Saturday story time.

See page 34 for details on

Halloween

Saturday, October 24

Dress Up Story Time

for special story times Spanish Watch presented in Spanish as we welcome volunteers from our Story Round It Up partner—Racial Unity Now (RUN)—to lead the fun!

Time

Saturday, October 31

36 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

WHAT

LYNDEN IS READING Village Books in LYNDEN

Top Sellers of 2026 . . . so far!

1. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi 2. The Correspondent by Virginia Evans 3. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir 4. Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman 5. Footsteps on Front Street by Troy Luginbill 6. Solito by Javier Zamora 7. Hiking Whatcom County by Ken Wilcox 8. What the River Keeps by Cheryl Grey Bostrom 9. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt 10. Always Remember by Charlie Mackesy

Lynden FRONT STREETERS

These current top 10 selling titles of 2026 reflect an interest in both national bestsellers and local authors! Lynden historian Troy Luginbill (and our Lynden store manager!), the popular novelist Cheryl Grey Bostrom, and Whatcom County guide writer Ken Wilcox have all made the top sellers again.

Thanks for buying local!

Book Group "Variety is the spice of life!"

Join Gaye from Village Books Lynden and the Front Streeters book group as they discuss titles from a variety of genres. They meet in person in the Waples Room of the Inn at Lynden­(adjacent to Village Books) at 7pm the third Wednesday of each month.

• September 16, 7pm –Pachinko by Min Jin Lee • October 21, 7pm The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder

by David Grann • November 18, 7pm –The Living by Annie Dillard

Attendees are eligible for a 15% discount on group selections FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Fall 2026

37

R UND IT P Join us in Supporting This Season’s Round It Up Partner

Racial Unity Now Fostering Racial Unity Within Our Community RUN’s strategy is simple yet transformative: to create racial unity by fostering empathy through relationships, understanding through education, and transformation through civic engagement here in Whatcom County.

One aspect of their civic engagement includes helping immigrants and migrant families in Lynden and Whatcom County by providing direct family support, emergency housing, legal defense funding, and welcome kits including basic needs relief (essential pantry items, bedding, school supplies, and toiletries). Because the recent hyper-targeted immigration enforcement wave in north Whatcom County has amplified the need for these services, Village Books is continuing our Round It Up partnership with RUN through early November.

Small Change. Big Impact Every cent you donate will go directly to Racial Unity Now, funding their local mission by supporting ongoing local initiatives including: migrant support and practical, hands-on justice work, Peace Camp and youth programs, Flavors of Community gatherings, and Be the Bridge book and discussion groups.

Round It Up, our amazingly simple giving program, was designed to support local non-profits.

Join Village Books and Paper Dreams customers who are supporting our community by rounding up your next purchase to the nearest dollar.

Community transformation always begins with personal transformation—and sometimes, it can start with the simple choice to round up your receipt.

RUN works to proactively build racial unity and prevent future conflicts through education, dialogue, and community-building initiatives.

Your support and participation can help make this happen.

Learn More at

facebook.com/racialunitynow &

racialunitynow.org

38 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

SOCIAL Current Events STUDIES How Not to Save the World: Doing Good Without Annoying Everyone

by Anthea Lawson

available in September, paperback, Oneworld

How Not To Save the World is a book about doing good, for anyone who has looked at politics or public discourse and thought, ‘we need better than this.’ Realistic, candid and hopeful, this book is a sympathetic exploration of alternatives to righteousness, purity traps and other unhelpful habits. It shows that there are ways to work together for what matters, without alienating the people we need to convince.

The Savage Mind: An American Legacy

by David Treuer

available in October, hardcover, Little, Brown

How do we understand America, ourselves, and the impulses that seem intent on destroying both? Ranging from Treuer’s upbringing on the Leech Lake reservation in Minnesota to the experiences of his parents, a Jewish Holocaust refugee and the first American Indigenous woman judge, The Savage Mind reveals the terrifying essence of our nation: frontier violence, which has defined our country, our culture, and our very selves.

Brought To You By: How Corporations Warped the Truth, Conned the Public, and Broke Democracy

by Amy Westervelt

available in September, hardcover, Bloomsbury Publishing

We all know corporations use doubt and science denial to avoid responsibility. So why do we continue to let them get away with it? In Brought to You By, Amy Westervelt exposes the wider plot hidden within the familiar story of science denial. With her signature wit and fiery anger, Westervelt shows how the masterminds of corporate misinformation have ushered in an era of unprecedented corporate control.

Blockers: Rebels in the Deep State

An American Problem: How the Country Built—And the Supreme Court Broke—the Voting Rights Act

by Michael G. Miller and Kevin T. Morris available in October, hardcover, Princeton University Press

The Voting Rights Act was the crowning achievement of the Civil Rights Movement, which had battled for years against voting laws that made it all but impossible for Black Americans to cast a ballot. Miller and Morris explain that central to the act’s success was its requirement that states and localities with a history of discrimination get federal permission to change their voting rules—a novel approach known as “preclearance.”

It was this requirement that the Shelby County decision eviscerated. They trace the devastating effect, using advanced research techniques to prove that the decision unleashed racially discriminatory voting policies.

The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State

by Jill Lepore

available now, hardcover, Liveright

Lepore’s clarion call traces our increasing dependence on and strangulation by data.

She demonstrates how technology has corroded global democracy, leading to the destruction of both human community and capacity for self-government. Especially sobering with this proliferation of “dizzying, ever-changing schemes, prophesies, and predictions” is that the Artificial State has come at the expense of the natural world, leading to catastrophic loss of wildlife habitat and biodiversity.

All the Presidents’ Wars: Twenty-Five Years of America’s War on Terror

by Peter Bergen

available in September, hardcover, W.W. Norton

Within days of 9/11, the United States began to declare its war on terror. The resulting war on terror cost trillions of dollars, hundreds of thousands of lives, a series of misguided wars, and the damaged perception of American power. And yet despite its blunders, this campaign has kept America safe from large-scale foreign attack. From the failure to capture and the eventual killing of Osama bin Laden to the disastrous rise of sectarian violence in the Middle East, Bergen traces the profound ramifications of this epoch in American life.

by Michael Lewis

available in October, hardcover, W.W. Norton

An inside look at the early days of Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, as told by the public servants it targeted. A Blocker was a holdover, an impediment, someone who didn't get the message—and, most of all, someone who didn't belong. Blockers is the story of people who believed they had a calling, who were convinced they were doing something the country couldn’t do without, and then discovered they were no longer wanted.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

39

Cascadia Daily News • Cascadia Community Calendar • Cascadia Daily Life Magazine • Cascadia One Pass

READ. PARTICIPATE. ADVERTISE. CONNECT. Independent journalism, community experiences, and local businesses working together to support the region we call home.

cascadiadaily.com

40 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

SOCIAL Current Events STUDIES Sleeping Beauties: Why Good Ideas Go Dormant and How They Wake Up

The New Dark Ages: The Death of Reading and the Dawn of the Post-Literate Society

available in October, hardcover, Penguin Press

available in October, hardcover, Doubleday

Discoveries as diverse as dark matter, lichen, and continental drift . . . technologies from solar panels to the steam engine . . . artists from Bach to Bruegel, Vermeer to Melville . . . all, David Byrne shows us, were sleeping beauties. Why did they fall asleep? How did they wake back up? Ranging across centuries and the full scope of human endeavor, Byrne arrives at important conclusions that serve as a lens for bringing to light new seeds for our future breakthroughs.

Rising literacy brought all of us to the world we recognize today. Now the number of people who read is in free fall. Literacy is stagnating in most developed countries. University students are unable to read the books assigned in their classes. Marriott argues that this is the most important cultural shift of our time.

by David Byrne

Artificial Intimacy:

Who We Become When We Talk to Machines

by Sherry Turkle

available in September, hardcover, Little, Brown

When we talk to artificial intelligence in previously-human roles, as intimate machines, we accept as sufficient what machines can offer: the mere performance of intimacy, empathy, and love. And then, they promise to be more—to be our “perfect” companion. But technology, by offering to do everything, teaches us that we neither need nor have the capacity to take risks, have hard conversations, struggle through uncertainty or insecurity, or rely on our own faculties and judgment.

You Don't Need a Smartphone: A Practical Guide to Downgrading Your Phone and Upgrading Your Life

by James Marriott

Activists & Democracy Lovers

New!

A book club and then some, this group reads books and explore other multimedia sources that not only help us understand our world, but inspire and show us how to make it better.

This group meets at 4pm on the third Thursday of each month in the Fairhaven VB Readings Gallery. Open to all!

Women, Walking:

Notes on Lives in Motion

edited by Zahra Ebrahim and Jane Farrow available now, paperback, Coach House Books

This anthology features 30 vignettes, essays, graphic art pieces, poems, and interviews, with contributors discussing identity, love, social connection, grief, and wonder. Whether they take you on a meander or a hike, a parade or a promenade, they all offer relatable and insightful reflections on walking to lose yourself, find yourself, and everything in between.

by August Lamm

available in October, paperback, Knopf

I’ve been living for over a year without a smartphone, and it's been one of the most freeing things I've ever done. I'm happier, have more time to devote to my passions, and am more in touch with reality now than I ever was when I spent all day scrolling.

August Lamm's new book outlines genuine reasons and practical ways that you can also begin living better with your smartphone left behind. –Bailey

We Ship!

See villagebooks.com or ask your bookseller for details.

"And all at once, summer collapsed into fall." –Oscar Wilde FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Fall 2026

41

History A Librarian’s War:

The Man Who Fought World War II with Books and Brought the Joy of Reading to Millions

by Molly Guptill Manning

available in September, hardcover, Oxford University Press

Many military leaders believed books were an unnecessary distraction for troops, but Ray Trautman relentlessly championed books, believing that they were key to the fight against totalitarianism. In 1940, he became Chief Librarian of the Army, creating the most far-reaching library system.

He devised the "Armed Services Editions," wallet-sized paperbacks and printed miniature magazines for soldiers. When the war ended in 1945, Trautman brought the fight for books home: advocating for rural libraries, building libraries in prisons, campaigning for more books for the visually impaired, and working to develop materials for adults with low reading proficiency so they could improve their literacy skills.

Speaking of America:

Great Conversations at the Library of Congress

by David M. Rubenstein

available in October, hardcover, Duke University Press

Featuring interviews with eminent historians, journalists, and writers, Speaking of America brings together wide-ranging conversations from philanthropist and financier David M. Rubenstein’s long-running Congressional Dialogues series of interviews. Highlights include Ken Burns on documenting American history, Stacy Schiff on Samuel Adams, Manisha Sinha on Reconstruction, and David McCullough on the American frontier.

Profits, Prophets, Coaches, and Kings

by Jared Diamond

available in September, hardcover, Mariner Books

In his acclaimed and influential books Guns, Germs, and Steel and Collapse, Jared Diamond transformed our understanding of what makes civilizations rise and fall. Now, he studies leaders throughout time to answer the question: do the actions of individuals truly influence history? If yes, what qualities and circumstances are required of a leader to make their mark? Diamond takes readers on a rich journey through the lives of humanity’s most well-known characters to reveal how time, place, and person can come together to change the course of history.

"Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it!" Well, here is your chance to prepare yourself for the future. The Armchair Historians cover all eras and topics in their quest to "know history." Join in!

42 Fall 2026

Mothers of Invention: A History of Creativity from the Greek Muses

by Dr. Moiya McTier

available now, hardcover, Grand Central Publishing

In Mothers of Invention, Moiya McTier uses the voices of the Greek Muses to reveal how they meddled in mortal manners, from using astronomy to make sense of the universe to harnessing electricity to transform life on earth—and Olympus. They show the healing power of art through jazz, the equalizing power of science through healthcare, and the communing power of creativity when we broadcast our stories to the world.

The Forsaken Founder: Gouverneur Morris, the Unsung Patriot Who Wrote the Constitution, Stood Up to Slavery, and Survived the Reign of Terror

by Scott S. Greenberger

available in September, hardcover, 37 Ink

Who saved the Continental Army from starvation? Who shaped the Constitution’s language and helped create the first U.S. currency? Who served as envoy to France during the Reign of Terror? It was Gouverneur Morris!

Who? Despite these achievements, Morris’s legacy is little known today. This book is the story of a man admired by giants, resisted by factions, and ultimately forsaken by memory—and of a republic still grappling with the truths he dared to speak.

The Rush:

California Gold, the Civil War, and the Making of the Modern World

by Nathaniel Philbrick

available in October, hardcover, Viking

Nathaniel Philbrick follows the gold as it moves from riverbed to countinghouse to the halls of power, revealing how vigilantism hardened into law and how debates over slavery in the West tipped the balance in Washington. The result is a clear, human story of how a scramble for wealth reshaped ideas of freedom, labor, and belonging—and how California's rise helped push a fractured nation toward war.

The Armchair Historians Book Group

meets third Mondays of each month at 6pm.

Watch our book group wall and villagebooks.com for upcoming reading selections.

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Women In History How to Kill a Witch:

The Patriarchy's Guide to Silencing Women

by Zoe Venditozzi and Claire Mitchell available now, paperback, Sourcebooks

This book is riveting, and so so so important.

I sometimes have a hard time making it through non-fiction, but not this one!

Fascinating (in an often-terrifying sort of way), witty, and with all the right candor when it comes to how these so-called witches were treated and how the (primarily) powerful men would doom them. –Caitriona

Monstrous Bitch: A History of Terrifying Women

by Eleanor Johnson

available in October, hardcover, Princeton University Press

For as long as human societies have been telling stories, the patriarchy has felt threatened by women. In this book, Johnson provides an engaging cultural history of a figure she calls the “monstrous bitch,” the notorious female who has haunted the patriarchal imagination, feared for her sexual promiscuity, her exercise of reproductive agency and control, and her outspoken way of contesting patriarchal power. In a narrative brimming with insight, Johnson traces the origins of female monstrosity to ancient Mesopotamia, to classical Greece, to contemporary cinema.

Sports

The W: A History of the WNBA

by Tamryn Spruill

available in September, hardcover, Abrams

The W explains the beginning of the league, banking on the success of the 1996 Olympic team, to the recruits of today. MVP conversations are combined with historic context about compensation, pregnancy leave, and drafts while keeping the game at the heart of the story. –Sarah

Reconcilable Differences: The Unlikely Political Alliance of John F. Kennedy and Eleanor Roosevelt

by Barbara A. Perry

Her Hat Was In the Ring: How Women Won the Right to Run for Office in the United States

by Wendy E. Chmielewski and Jill Norgren available in September, hardcover, NUY Press

Contrary to popular belief, women’s right to vote and the right to hold elective office weren’t always tied to one another. Whether women could become candidates, and for which offices, was determined by each state. Drawing on newspapers, state government reports, historical and biographical archives, and other resources, historians Chmielewski and Norgren trace the legal, social, and cultural shifts across the country that made it possible for the thousands of women who ran for elective office in the United States between 1850 and 1920.

Live Laugh Love: The Secret History of White Christian Women and the World They Made

by Kristin Kobes Du Mez

available in September, hardcover, Liveright Publishing Co.

Following Jesus and John Wayne, Du Mez has now gone head first into the female world of conservative Christianity. Starting with an incredible history lesson, Du Mez shows how those early days of extreme gender roles have led to the impossible pressures of perfection that women may feel, as well as how they have become preparators of those pressures. –Kiana

Justice for Jehanne: The Tale of a Medieval Survivor

by Sara McDougall

available in September, hardcover, Princeton University Press

In the winter of 1472, the city of Dijon, France, became the stage for a remarkable legal drama. On the mayor’s orders, an investigator named Jaques Borestel went door-to-door questioning his neighbors about an alleged sexual assault. At the center of the inquiry was a woman named Jehanne, who took the unusual step of making a criminal complaint in an age when victims of sexual violence did so at their own peril. Justice for Jehanne follows Jaques’s investigation as he uncovers one woman’s story of resilience and survival.

Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com

available in September, hardcover, University of Virginia Press

Since FDR’s passing in 1945, Eleanor Roosevelt had been the Democratic Party’s grande dame, and as Kennedy set his sights on the highest office in the land, he was determined to win her support. She remained suspicious of his inexperience, opportunism, Catholicism, fragile health, and playboy reputation. Their legendary family dynasties had sometimes cooperated but more often clashed. This story tells how Kennedy ultimately succeeded.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

43

Biographies & Memoirs Everything is Everything: Tom Wilson and Pop Music in 1966

by Steven E. Jones

available in September, paperback, Stanford University Press

It would be hard to find a figure more solidly located at the junction of the currents traversing America in 1966 than Tom Wilson. A Black man working in almost exclusively white studio settings, Wilson played a vital role in an astonishing array of landmark records: after producing Bob Dylan and Simon & Garfunkel in the previous year, in 1966 alone Wilson produced albums from Frank Zappa & the Mothers of Invention, The Velvet Underground, Hugh Masekela, The Animals, Sun Ra, and more.

Any one of these would be a standout on most producers' resumes.

Taken together, they testify to an influential career, and invite a new appraisal of a pivotal moment in American pop culture.

Fictional Selves: A Memoir

Performing Arts Rock*: A Mainstream Alternative History of Alternative Mainstream Music

by Chuck Klosterman

available in September, hardcover, Da Capo

Presented like The Rolling Stone History of Rock & Roll if written by Jorge Luis Borges and MC Escher, Chuck Klosterman has generated a fictitious universe where almost everything is different, except for the songs. Rock* intermixes satiric contrarianism and Spinal Tap-ish absurdity with darker theories about what makes art popular, how success delineates perception, and the inescapable consensus of subjective history.

Birth of a Culture

by Kyle MacLachlan

by Grandmaster Flash with Scoop Johnson

available in September, hardcover, Crown

available in September, hardcover, Amistad

Taking us to the heights of critical success for Blue Velvet to the depths of the backyard pool in his infamous Showgirls love scene, Kyle MacLachlan brings us into the mind of one of the most distinctive actors of his generation, offering profound insights on collaborators like David Lynch, Laura Dern, Dennis Hopper, Anthony Hopkins, and more.

Step into the vibrant streets of the 1970s Bronx and witness the exact moment a global movement began. Whether you are a lifelong hip-hop fan, a dedicated music historian, or simply someone who loves powerful stories of cultural triumph, this book belongs on your shelf. Once you’ve read Birth of a Culture, you can say you know the undeniable heartbeat of hip-hop's true origins.

Scream with Me:

The Steps

Horror Films and the Rise of American Feminism (1968-1980)

by Eleanor Johnson

available in September, paperback, Atria Books

Scream with Me is a compelling, intelligent, and timely exploration of the horror genre from one of Columbia University’s most popular professors. It sheds light on how classic horror films demonstrate larger cultural attitudes about women’s rights, bodily autonomy, and more. In ten “riveting, enlightening, and occasionally scream-inducing” (Shelf Awareness) essays, Eleanor Johnson reveals with intellect and empathy how classics like Rosemary’s Baby, The Exorcist, and The Shining expose and critique issues of reproductive control, domestic violence, and patriarchal oppression. “An indispensable work of feminist criticism.” —Elle

by Sylvester Stallone available in September, hardcover, William Morrow

In the 50 years since Sylvester Stallone ran up the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum, he and those steps have become symbols of resilience and determination. In a narrative framed between his arrival in New York City in 1969 and the triumph of Rocky at the 1977 Academy Awards, Stallone weaves a vivid and propulsive portrait of struggle, subsistence, and ultimately success.

"Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall."

–F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

The world is full of choices. Thanks for continuing to choose us!

44 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Biographies & Memoirs Tell Me About Joy:

This Cursed Beautiful Land:

A True Story of Love, Regret, and Second Chances

A Russian-American Story

by Evan Gershkovich

available in September, hardcover, Crown

by Kara Kavensky

In writing by turns riveting and humorous, Gershkovich brings readers inside the events leading to his arrest, his nearly 500 days in Russian prisons, and the blockbuster, multicountry prisoner swap that freed him. More than a prison memoir, This Cursed Beautiful Land is an extraordinary, deeply reported chronicle of a misunderstood people and their land—marked at once by stunning beauty and a haunting history.

available in September, paperback, Sourcebooks

My Hungry Ghosts:

Essays and Incantations

Kara Kavensky is a journalist stuck in a crumbling marriage, quietly losing hope.

When she’s assigned to write a humaninterest piece on WWII Veterans, she meets Bob—a sharp, charming nonagenarian whose greatest regret is that he missed out on marrying the love of his life—a woman named Joy. It's been over sixty years since Bob has spoken her name, and he has one last wish: to find her before it’s too late. What begins as a routine assignment turns into the story that changes everything. As Kavensky sets out to reunite two long-lost lovers, she’s forced to confront the losses and longings in her own life.

The Chessboard

by May-lee Chai

available in September, paperback, Blair Publishing

Drawing upon the traditional Chinese Daoist and Buddhist concept of hungry ghosts, Maylee Chai writes about personal hauntings, the people, histories, ancestors, and family members who continue to touch her life.

Hungry ghosts are spirits that are caught between realms forgotten by their descendants and separated from their ancestors. In these twelve reflections and incantations, both new and previously published award-winning works, Chai explores Chinese spiritual traditions, the lunar almanac, exile and the diaspora born of war.

History

by Jean-Philippe Toussaint, translated by Ruth Diver available in October, paperback, Other Press

The Chessboard is an interesting exploration of form through a tripartite project that ultimately becomes this book.

Toussaint uniquely frames his memoir atemporally from the beginning, so readers must hold several versions of him in mind simultaneously, creating a richer picture than more traditional biography can struggle with. This was such an impressive move it will stay with me for a long time to come. A book both remarkable and slightly peculiar. –Bailey

An Unexpected Life: A Memoir

Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War’s Most Extraordinary Spy

by Gloria Steinem

available in September, hardcover, Random House

by Ben Macintyre

available in September, hardcover, Crown

This is the gripping tale of one man’s courage, and its extraordinary unintended consequences that still shape our world today.

It’s also about a moving friendship between spies on opposite sides of the global conflict.

Drawing on never-before-seen archival material and revealing interviews with the participants, Redwood plunges readers back into the world of The Spy and the Traitor, where the fate of millions turns on the split-second decisions of spies under pressure.

Gloria Steinem offers an inspiring and candid memoir of her early life and the journey that made her one of the world’s most influential activists and storytellers, alongside a cleareyed, urgent message for new generations about what the next chapters of the fight for equality will demand. Intimate, funny, and rich with hard-earned wisdom, An Unexpected Life offers readers the rare opportunity to learn directly from one of feminism’s most enduring voices.

Village Books & Sports PaperHistory Dreams

Gift Cards

Great for ALL Ages!

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Fall 2026

45

"Autumn…the year’s last, loveliest smile."

-William Cullen Bryant

JOIN US

Our

2 02 6 / 2027 Season

For tickets, please visit our website or call 360.734.6080

B E L L I N G H A M S Y M P H O N Y. O R G 46 Fall 2026

Your Digital Reader Did you know that you can access issues of The Chuckanut Reader on the go?

Visit the villagebooks.com home page and click on the link to find an electronic version of the latest Reader. Once you're there, you can peruse back issues as well - Enjoy!

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Live Literature Local Music & A Little Humor Join us for the taping of this unique local radio show—an evening of LIVE ENTERTAINMENT including amazing literature, live music, fun skits, poetry, humor, and more!

Performed live and recorded for radio, each Radio Hour includes a guest author, live local music, performance poetry by Kevin Murphy, and an episode of "As the Ham Turns" serial radio comedy perfomed by the Chuckanut Radio Players. Hosts Paul Hanson and Kelly Evert are joined by announcer Rich Donnelly for an evening of entertainment. Doors open and music starts at 6:30pm, show starts at 7pm.

Tickets $10 - available now. Seating is limited so don't delay—­we'll see you there!

Dr. Mary Fariba Afsari at Lairmont Manor, Bellingham

Labor: One Woman's Work

Wednesday, September 2, 7pm

OB-GYN Mary Fariba Afsari will share her new memoir about starting a mobile clinic during this evening of literature and entertainment.

Eileen Garvin & Lyanda Lynn Haupt Thursday, September 17, 7pm at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal in Fairhaven Fresh off the Books A'Sail cruise, these two incredible authors will join us to discuss their latest books, Bumblebee Season and Among the Birds!

$10

Entrance Fee $5 can be used towards the purchase of the featured book or other merchandise offered at that show!

Thursday, October 22, 7pm Venue: Watch for Details

Pam Houston

in conversation with Becky Mandelbaum

Animals Taught Me Everything

With playful sincerity, Pam Houston finds power and promise in the teachings of our fellow creatures and reminds us that the animals are here for us, every day and everywhere.

Lucy Tan

Friday, November 20, 7pm

Tiger's Mouth

A sweeping new novel of privilege, identity, and ambition from the acclaimed author of What We Were Promised.

Venue: Watch for Details

Thanks to our regular sponsors

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

47

Science & Nature On Time: The Physics

That Makes the Universe Tick

by Jim Al-Khalili

available in September, hardcover, Princeton University Press

Jim Al-Khalili tackles the enduring problems of time head-on, carefully examining them across the three central pillars of physics— quantum mechanics, general relativity, and thermodynamics. He shows how, in each domain, time can be understood differently: as a coordinate or label, as an inseparable dimension of space-time, or as a direction or “arrow.” He explains why it can be difficult to reconcile these different perspectives and describes how theorists at the frontiers of physics are attempting to do just that.

Minds I've Met:

From Denying to Embracing the Inner Lives of Animals

by Frans de Waal

available in October, hardcover, W.W. Norton & Co.

In Minds I've Met, de Waal traces his point of view through decades of history of several related fields of science, their growing pains, and their eventual successes. His passion for the work he spent his life pursuing is evident, and readers stand to gain much insight into not only the current edge of primatology, but how our society can use our beloved sciences for better and for worse. –Bailey

Why is the World So Beautiful?: Our Minds in Search of Nature’s Rhymes

by Nicholas Humphrey

available in October, hardcover, The MIT Press

Inspired by a line from the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, that “all beauty may be called rhyme,” the author argues that by actively searching for rhyming connections between things, we establish the “mental models” that guide our understanding of the world. These rhymes extend beyond sounds to shapes, colors, objects, and even abstract ideas. Just as we need food to nourish our bodies, we need rhymes to nourish our minds.

WE LOVE DOGS! We have treats for our furry-faced friends at the registers.

48 Fall 2026

To Infinity and Beyond: A Journey of Cosmic Discovery

by Neil deGrasse Tyson and Lindsey Nyx Walker

available now, paperback, National Geographic

An enthralling look at our universe that takes you on a journey starting on Earth, continuing out into the greater Milky Way, and then down the rabbit (worm)hole. Tyson and Walker give us a simplified overview of physics principles that you may not have thought about since middle school. They then take it a step further by exploring the history behind the principles and how some of our favorite sci-fi movies got those concepts incredibly wrong (or right). –Kellen

Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com Kobuk the Destroyer: And Other Tales from the Wild, Unseen World of Test Engineering

by Alex Davies

available in September, hardcover, W.W. Norton

When a manufacturer slaps a “bear-resistant” label on a camping cooler, how do we know?

It’s Kobuk the Destroyer, the fiercest member of the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee’s panel of product-testing bears. For everything else, it’s test engineers. Armed with sixty-foot cannons that fire frozen chickens into jet engines, rocket sleds so fast they knock fillings out of teeth, and Lazy Susans for tasting hundreds of cups of tea a day, test engineers break it so you can buy it. From echo-proof chambers to Formula 1 wind tunnels to airplane hangars turned torture labs, Davies takes readers behind the scenes of a workforce that combats contingency with equal parts analytical rigor and wild imagination.

Liars, Cheats, and Copycats:

Trickery and Deception in Nature

by James O'Hanlon

available in October, paperback, Columbia University Press

Stick bugs, anglerfish, the classic octopus, chameleon vines? There are so many fascinating creatures that survive through various trickster shenanigans and the crazy part is that we still don't fully understand how. This is such a fun book written by someone who is clearly very passionate about the weird little guys of the world that want to do nothing more than look like other weird little guys (mainly so they don't die). –Kellen

Building Community One Book at a Time

Art by Molly Hashimoto

Nature of Writing

SPEAKER SERIES FALL 2026

Village Books and North Cascades Institute are excited to offer another amazing season of the Nature of Writing speaker series.

With a focus on nature writing, science, and the natural and cultural history of our region, this series of readings brings some of the best writers on the natural world to Bellingham.

Thursday, September 3, 6pm LYANDA LYNN HAUPT –Among the Birds: Field Notes From Cascadia

Sunday, October 11, 6pm MARINA RICHIE with Lyanda Lynn Haupt –Feathered Forest: Aloft with Birds in Ancient Trees

Join us for a lyrical and observant exploration of Pacific Northwest birds with this New York Times-bestselling author.

This award-winning nature writer entwines the lives of birds with a hidden vertical world of wild trees.

Sunday, September 6, 6pm MIRIAM HORN –Homesick for a World Unknown:

A Free Kids Event!

Saturday, October 24, 3pm JULIA KUO –Mountainous

The Life of George B. Schaller

This riveting portrait of the world’s leading field biologist captures the 70 years he spent living among wild animals in the world’s remotest regions.

Thursday, October 8, 6pm DAVID B. WILLIAMS

Award-winning author-illustrator Julia Kuo's stunning picture book is a wondrous exploration into mountains—perfect for introducing readers of all ages to the mysteries of mighty mountains and the wonders of our natural world.

in conversation with Saul Weisberg In the Range of Fire and Ice: A Human and Natural History of Washington’s Cascades

Sunday, October 25, 6pm GAVIN VAN HORN –Sensoria: Attending to the

Blending human and natural history into a vivid portrait of one of North America’s most dynamic landscapes—a lively, groundbreaking exploration of Washington’s Cascade Range.

Sensoria offers an immersion in the sensual experiences of seeing, hearing, touching, tasting, and smelling—and their interactions, combinations, and more-than-human manifestations.

Saturday, October 10, 6pm RENA PRIEST –Dancing to the Ticking of the Doomsday Clock

Celebrated local poet Rena Priest's new collection weaves indigenous wisdom, wit, and song into a prayer map for navigating our world, asking profound questions of the soul, love, and our place in nature.

Wonder and Vitality of Nature

Tuesday, October 27, 6pm EMILY POOLE –Cascade of Life: An Artist’s Seasonal

Guide to the Wild Northwest

A blend of stunningly vivid paintings and personal anecdotes with field-based insights enhance this illustrated journey through the Pacific Northwest. See her art on the cover of this issue!

Presented by Village Books in Partnership with North Cascades Institute FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Fall 2026

49

Western Washington and Oregon in Bloom:

Pacific NW

Find and Identify the 150 Most Common Wildflowers

Cascade of Life:

An Artists’s Seasonal Guide to the Wild Northwest

& Eastern Washington and Oregon in Bloom

available now, hardcover, Skipstone

available now, paperback, Timber Press

Artist and naturalist Emily Poole explores the wondrous variety of the Pacific Northwest— from rocky shorelines to alpine slopes to arid steppes—through the rhythms of the four seasons, spotlighting species that are especially active at different times of year. Part field guide, part journal, each chapter encourages the reader’s curiosity and offers accessible, hands-on activities to deepen their connection with nature.

These practical, pocket-sized field guides help hikers, wildflower enthusiasts, and beginners identify the region's most common and intriguing blooms with full-color photographs and accessible descriptions.

Whether it be colorful, showy plants, or the bizarre and deadly, these and more are presented here in these two easy-to-use field guides that feature text and photographs of some of Western Washington, Eastern Washington, and Oregon’s more common and interesting wildflowers.

by Ellen Kuhlmann and Mark Turner

by Emily Poole

Meet the Author/Artist!

Tuesday, October 27, 6pm at Village Books in Fairhaven

Join Us!

Sunday, September 27, 6pm

EMILY POOLE Register to attend at villagebooks.com

ELLEN KUHLMANN & MARK TURNER

A Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event

at Village Books in Fairhaven

Register to attend at villagebooks.com

il a ’S BooksSeA ptember 15 -17, 2026 A Book Group at Sea

with Eileen Garvin and Lyanda Lynn Haupt

Every fall, Village Books joins the Schooner Zodiac to offier “Books A’Sail", a 3-day book club adventure in the beautiful San Juan Islands! Store owners Paul Hanson and Kelly Evert guide the literary journey. This cruise filled quickly this year but not to worry, you can still catch these amazing authors at the September 17 Chuckanut Radio Hour taking place at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal.

Tickets to the show are now available now at villagebooks.com.

Meanwhile, the Schooner Zodiac is still offering an additional selection of wonderful late season day cruises and excursions—check them out!

Check Cruise Schedules & Availability at

SchoonerZodiac.com

50 Fall 2026

or call (206) 719-7622 Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Science & Nature The Mushroomery:

Grow, Harvest and Cook Incredible Mushrooms

by Buttons Mira

available in September, hardcover, Smith Street Books

The Mushroomery features step-bystep, at-home projects for growing and cultivating different varieties of mushrooms, plus more than twenty mushroom-forward dishes including recipes for pickling and drying mushrooms for preservation and to enhance their flavor. This mushroom guide is a handy glossary to help the reader navigate the world of mycology terms, as well as guidance on equipment, ingredients, and sterilization.

The Butterfly Season:

What 64 Butterflies Taught Me about Nature’s Great Mysteries and the Meaning of Life

by Lea Korsgaard, translated by Sherilyn Nicolette Hellberg available in September, hardcover, Knopf

The Butterfly Season recounts the year Korsgaard spent tracking every species of butterfly in her native Denmark. This book is an unforgettable reflection on the precious and fleeting nature of life itself. “The Butterfly Season is an inspiring love letter to the magic of the natural world, in all its beauty and complexity and joy—an unforgettable reminder that wonder awakens the heart.”

—Amy Tan, author of The Backyard Bird Chronicles.

Plants of the Pacific Coast: From Alaska to Oregon, Including British Columbia and Washington

by Jim Pojar, Andy MacKinnon, Leigh Joseph (Styawat), and Jamie Fenneman available in September, paperback, CanScience Books

Authors Jim Pojar and Andy MacKinnon, field botanists and forest ecologists who each have 50 years of experience in the region, are joined for this brand-new, fully updated field guide by two colleagues: ethnobotanist Leigh Joseph (Styawat), of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation, and plant taxonomist Jamie Fenneman. The book is organized by life form so that species that resemble one another appear in the same group. It also includes an introduction to the region’s physical environment; an overview of regional biodiversity, ecological resilience, and climate change; and an exploration of regional ethnobotany, with insights into Indigenous plant knowledge, uses, and ecosystem management.

In the Range of Fire & Ice:

A Human and Natural History of Washington’s Cascades

by David B. Williams

available now, hardcover, Mountaineers

From traditional Indigenous huckleberry harvesting grounds and ancient footpaths to erupting volcanoes, shifting glaciers, and forgotten mining camps, In the Range of Fire and Ice reveals the Cascades as a place of both deep time and constant change. While past logging, mining, and fires left lasting scars, the Cascades also tell powerful stories of recovery and resilience—returning wolverines and wolves, the remarkable rebirth of Mount St. Helens, and growing stewardship in the face of climate change.

Meet the Author!

Thursday, October 8, 6pm at Village Books in Fairhaven

DAVID B. WILLIAMS

in conversation with Saul Weisberg Register to attend at villagebooks.com A Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

51

Art The Art of Fairy Tales

by Joanna Ebenstein

available now, hardcover, Laurence King Publishing

Step into a world where imagination knows no bounds with The Art of Fairy Tales by Joanna Ebenstein. This lavishly illustrated gift book invites readers on a mesmerizing journey through the enchanted realm of fairy tales as interpreted by master artists across centuries.

The Endurance Photographs: A Definitive Visual Record of Shackleton's Expedition

by The Royal Geographical Society, forward by Alexandra Shackleton

The Art of Snail Mail:

20 Mail Art Projects for Crafting Connection

by Martina Calvi

available in October, hardcover, Quadrille

SNAIL MAIL IS SO BACK! Don't take our word for it. Learn all the best ways to send cute things in the mail and build community with the newest craft bible from mixed media artist and beloved online crafter, Martina Calvi. A love letter to real analog post, The Art of Snail Mail is a true celebration of sentimentality and creativity.

Watch for LETTER WRITING WORKSHOPS ­ Coming Soon!

available in September, hardcover, Chronicle Books

Experience the unforgettable survival story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew of 27 aboard the Endurance from her maiden voyage in England to her sinking in the Weddell Sea of Antarctica. This book showcases never before seen photos captured by the crew photographer. This is a stunning gift for sailing and history enthusiasts or those that really like old photographs and relish in what lengths humans will go through.

Poetry Sappho: The Mary Barnard

Translation Collector’s Edition

by Sappho

available now, hardcover, University of California Press

The one hundred poems and fragments in this volume are almost all that remains of the legendary poet Sappho. Yet in Mary Barnard’s unparalleled, immensely moving translation, the spirit of Sappho comes alive.

A respected poet in her own right, Barnard wove these fragments into a compellingly cohesive collection that follows a woman’s life journey. Intimate and incisive, these verses hold a playfulness that allows Sappho’s voice to reverberate into the present.

Staying Still

by Hieu Minh Nguyen available now, paperback, Tin House

This collection of poems is a beautiful collision of longing and love, grief and humor. Managing to be both lyrical yet also devastatingly to the point, Nguyen artfully infuses his experience as both a gay man and a drag queen while also illustrating how it feels to oscillate between the many disparate aspects of what it means to be human. –Caitriona

52 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Life Lessons Psychology

How to Make a Friend:

A Modern Guide to Friendship

by Radha Agrawal

available in October, hardcover, Sourcebooks

Community-builder Radha Agrawal reveals what modern culture has forgotten: friendship is gloriously inefficient—and that’s exactly why it matters. Drawing on research and decades of building real-world communities, Radha exposes the myth of toxic individualism and offers a radical reframe. Friendship doesn’t optimize for productivity or perfection; it optimizes for meaning. It asks us to show up when it’s inconvenient, lean into awkwardness, repair instead of retreat, and choose presence over performance.

Building

Philosophy

Zen and Ghibli: Life Lessons for Lasting Happiness from the Legendary Studio

by Toshio Suzuki, translated by Beth Cary

available in October, hardcover, Putnam’s Sons

Legendary Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki embarks on an intellectual journey with three leading Buddhist monks to explore Zen themes woven into the universally treasured Ghibli films. Many lifechanging lessons are revealed: zazen, redirecting our focus inward (Kiki’s Delivery Service); kunjū, learning through observation (The Wind Rises); fushiki, strength in not knowing (Princess Mononoke); furyū monji, how to convey feelings that cannot be expressed into words (Howl’s Moving Castle).

Lost and Found: A Compassionate Guide to Homeownership

by Mercury Stardust available in September, hardcover, DK

In this successor to the #1 New York Times bestseller Safe and Sound, Mercury Stardust demystifies the path to homeownership and sets you up for homeowning success. Learn about the ups and downs of the house hunting process—from putting in an offer to going through inspections and closing—and then join Mercury as she tackles her first year with a fixer-upper that needs to be renovated and updated.

Family

Notes to New Mothers

edited by Rebecca Knight and Julie Buntin available in September, hardcover, W.W. Norton

In the early days with their first babies, two friends began comparing notes on what, exactly, was going on in their postpartum bodies and minds. Here is a bedside table companion with 65 writer’s thoughts for every mother who has wondered how she’ll make it through the wilderness of early parenthood, and a window into her experience for the family and friends desperate to better care for their beloved moms-to-be.

Shop Today at Villagebooks.com

Health

The Vanishing Family:

Psychology Adult Children of Emotionally Abusive Families: Overcoming the Pain,

Love, Fate, and the Quest to End Dementia

Dysfunction, and Trauma of Growing up in a Toxic Family

available in September, hardcover, Doubleday

available in October, hardcover, St. Martin's Publishing Group

by Robert Kolker

In the idyllic town of Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania, there lived a family with nine siblings, the youngest a girl named Barb. As the older children headed off to college and started their lives, only Barb was home to see their beautiful, still-young mother fall under a gothic spell, changing into someone she didn’t recognize: withdrawn, neglectful and uncaring. Thus begins The Vanishing Family, journalist Robert Kolker’s superb follow-up to Hidden Valley Road.

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

by Beverly Engel In this book, trauma expert Beverly Engel teaches us to recognize trauma responses in ourselves and others, all while inviting the reader to hold grace for themselves. Full of writing prompts and exercises, this book is not only for a deeper understanding of the nuance of familial emotional abuse, but also provides opportunities for growth and discovery so that nothing is holding you back from the hope and healing you deserve. –Chloe H.

Fall 2026

53

The Latest From Village Books'

Chuckanut Editions

by Angela Letoi, illustrated by Dionisio Romero Village Books is proud to announce the latest title in our Chuckanut Editions imprint collection: a beautiful picture book written by Angela Letoi and illustrated

by Dionisio “Nish” Romero.

In this story, Blue Jay wants to learn how to fish salmon from Kingfisher, but his impatience gets in the way! Learn the Coast Salish tale of how blue jays got their crests in this amusing tale about patience, contentment, and humility. The story of Blue Jay came from Clem Seymour from the Seabird Island Band of Stó:lō Nation. It started with only four sentences and has evolved and changed over time to be the beautiful book you can now hold in your hands.

Author Angela Letoi is a Nooksack tribal member. Angela fell in love with storytelling and was gifted with many stories and learned to make them her own. As a caregiver for dementia and end of life clients, Angela's job fills her cup and allows her to hear incredible stories and learn from her elders. She lives in the land of the Coast Salish with her soulmate, Tulaga, and is a mother and a grandmother.

Illustrator Dionisio “Nish” Romero is from the Nooksack Indian Tribe in Washington state. He lives with his family on their land that has been passed down. He is a young aspiring artist being mentored

by Jonas Jones and Ray Natraoro in the Coast Salish art form.

He specializes in traditional Coast Salish Wood Carving. He has carved several portrait masks and panels. He also has hands-on experience working on large scale projects such as welcome figures and house posts with Jonas Jones and Ray Natraoro. He strives to see Coast Salish art represented in its traditional territories. He is eager and passionate to build his career and set a path for himself and future generations to come.

Blue Jay is available now at Village Books!

Chuckanut Editions is Village Books' own publishing imprint. Dedicated to the preservation of local history, we are thrilled to share this book with you!

54 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

YOUNG READERS Their Families & Educators

Picture Books

The Beginner’s Guide to Being a Wizard

The Pumpkin Thief

by Keith Negley

by Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola Slater

available now, hardcover, Flamingo Books

available now, hardcover, Sourcebooks

From New York Times bestselling author of The Leaf Thief comes a funny Halloween-y picture book! Squirrel and Bird are back, and this time there's a mystery in the vegetable patch! Bird's pumpkins keep disappearing, and this time there's EVIDENCE—footprints, peckmarks, a feather! There is a PUMPKIN THIEF! With bonus material explaining Halloween's traditions, this adorable new tale is poised to be a new classic.

Goodbye, Koi

availabel in October, hardcover, Alvina Ling Books

available in September, hardcover, Orchard Books

A child ponders how will the koi fish he had to say goodbye to survive and feel after they leave each other.

Readers begin to see the parallels between the koi and the child—they are both moving to a new space.

Jack Wong demonstrates the strong feelings and potential unknowns of a big move through the beautiful dance of text and watercolor illustrations in Goodbye, Koi. –Kat

by Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Emily Hughes

The Little Stone Buddha

by Grace Lin

by Jack Wong

The Wishing Well

Local author and illustrator Keith Negley has completely captivated me. Do I want to become a wizard? I mean, snacks are an optional wizard tool, and naps always win—sounds like a fun time! Negley provides readers with wizard tools and familiars options, the top wizard rules, and even a spell. If you have been wondering the beginning steps of becoming a wizard, this is the book for you. –Kat

When a small stone Buddha falls off a cyclist's wagon, he lands in a neglected part of a busy city street. But as passersby begin to notice the little stone Buddha, they start to wonder: what if we each made a small change that brightened this shared part of our community? Inspired by a true story, The Little Stone Buddha shows us how a small action—or, in this case, a small Buddha—can change a moment, which can change a decision, which can change the spirit, which can, in the end, change everything.

Millie Fleur’s Worst Day Ever

by Christy Mandin

available in September, hardcover, Union Square Kids

available in October, hardcover, Orchard Books

In this emotionally rich story from bestselling author Gideon Sterer and award-winning illustrator Emily Hughes, a monster trapped at the bottom of a wishing well plots his escape, reminding us that true wealth is measured not in coins but in love, freedom, and the beauty of nature.

Have you ever been so excited for a day and then you wake up with a humbug in your hair that you just cannot shake? Then you can relate to the newest installment of Millie Fleur books. Nothing is going as planned for Millie and she just might have to accept some help from her friends to turn her day around. Also, there is a frog pushing a snail in a pet parade—can’t lose! –Kat

Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com Thank You for Shopping Local

We know the world is full of choices.

Thank you for choosing us!

Fall 2026

55

Spooky Tales Step Inside a Fairy Tale: A Collection of Classic Stories

by Helen Mortimer, illustrated by Gabriella Barouch, photographs by Lars van de Goor

available in September, hardcover, Magic Cat

When you step inside a fairy tale, you enter a world of magic and courage, of possibility and hope. It is the most special place to begin an adventure, so come along and step inside this exquisitely illustrated treasury featuring eight timeless fairy tales sure to enchant and delight the young readers in your life. Ages 4-8

Leina and the Haunted Forest

by Myriam Dahman and Nicolas Digard, illustrated by Júlia Sardà available in October, hardcover, Kids Can Press

Children will be enthralled by this richly imagined fairy tale about a forest’s secrets —and its secret keepers. The story offers a powerful message about gratitude and forgiveness. With its captivating illustrations by internationally acclaimed artist Júlia Sardà, the book makes an excellent choice to read aloud, though it is also suitable for emerging readers. It provides opportunities for discussions about taking nature —and our fellow creatures—for granted, and the perils and harms that can come from misunderstanding others who are different.Ages 5-8

HALLOWEEN

Believe: A World Where Magic Still Hides—Over 100 Fantastical Beasts!

by Catherine Doyle, illustrated by Freya Hartas

available in September, hardcover, Magic Cat

Step inside a book that takes you back to the very beginning; to a natural world where cheeky trolls, shape-shifting fairies, and fire-breathing dragons roamed, untouched by humankind. In this lavishly illustrated book, young readers will discover the origins of magical creatures and mythical beasts from all around the world. Ages 6-8

A Witch Lives Here

by Kristen Dickson, illustrated by Justine Gilbuena available now, hardcover, Roaring Brook Press

In this whimsical picture book, a child and dog discover a mysterious house in the woods full of black cats and flying brooms and immediately wonder . . . does a witch live here? Join these curious friends on a magical adventure filled with clues and seekand-finds to discover if it's true that does indeed live here! Ages 3-6

Vampurr

by Justin Colón, illustrated by Lenny Wen available now, hardcover, Farrar, Straus, and Giroux

Vampurr is a bit quirky and unusual in all her delightful spookiness, so it has taken a while to find just the right home for her. You’re sure to enjoy this adorable kitten tale about found family that could easily become an annual Halloween read! –Kendra Ages 4-8

Happenings

Tuesday, October 27, 11am

DRESS UP for Story Time... with a Dog! Furry Fun in Fairhaven!

Test out those costumes before trick-or-treating by joining us for a special story time in the Readings Gallery where we’ll read spooky (but not TOO spooky) Halloween tales, enjoy some treats, sing some songs, and hang out with our favorite story time dog, Legend!

See page 34 for Halloween Happenings in Lynden

Saturday, October 31, 3-6pm

Trick-or-Treat In Fairhaven Welcome to Fear-Haven!

CELEBRATE

HALLOWEEN!

Come to Fairhaven for the traditional community Trick-or-Treat afternoon! During this annual event, you’ll be joined all sorts of small (and not-so-small) creatures—filling the streets.

56 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Autumn Celebrations!

Rosh Hashanah Square-Circle-Star!

Join Our Family:

A Coco and Bear Story

A First Shapes Book

by Apryl Stott

by Joy Nelkin Wieder, illustrated by Aura Lewis

available in September, hardcover, Simon & Schuster

I love all of the books in the Coco and Bear series! The illustrations are just so magical, and the stories teach great lessons to share with your little ones.

This story talks about kindness and bringing friends and family together as well as the feelings we experience when someone we look forward to seeing cannot make a gathering and how to move forward. –Kendra

available now, board book, Abrams

From baking a circular challah to listening to the blast of a spiral shofar to folding triangular napkins for the dinner table, young readers will grasp the concept of shapes as they learn about the Jewish New Year! The book also includes an age-appropriate explanation of Rosh Hashanah and the ways in which the holiday is celebrated.

Indigenous from A to Z

Thankful Gnomes

available in September, hardcover, Workman Kids

available in September, board book, Simon & Schuster

This stunning alphabetical introduction to the rich history of Native peoples across the USA includes Indigenous peoples' history, culture, values, and future—an essential read for Native American Heritage Month and all year round.

I just love that we can enjoy gnomes throughout all the seasons! This board book is such a cute gift with its fuzzy beard and its story about so many wondering autumnal activities! –Kendra

by Traci Sorell illustrated by Natasha Donovan

Board Book

by Kelly Green, illustrated by Lisa Alderson

The Great Pumpkin Pancake Party

by Celeste Pewter, illustrated by Kelly Wu available now, hardcover, Henry Holt and Co.

A lovely and warm story about creating new family traditions! I love this story that demonstrates how food is used to bring community together while honoring different cultures, traditions and generations while creating something new that everyone can love. –Kendra

r t s ytime

In Fairhaven

And Lynden!

Join Us!

In Fairhaven: Tuesdays at 11am Join us in the kids' section of our Fairhaven location every Tuesday at 11am for a half hour of stories, songs, and movement!

In Lynden: Saturdays at 11am Lynden Fire Fighters! Friendly Dogs! Dinosaurs, Music, and a Princess! See page 36 for a line-up of the fun and varied story times taking place at our Lynden store.

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

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57

Frightfully Fun Non-Fiction Folklore & Mythology

Witches and Wizards: Explore the World of Magic, Witchcraft, and Sorcery

by Dr. Angela Puca, illlustrated by Cinthya Alvarez

available now, hardcover, Neon Squid

An illustrated guide to the history and mythology of witchcraft and sorcery!

For centuries, people all around the world have told stories about witches and wizards. But where do these tales come from? Did these people really have magical powers?

Hooked by the eerie trivia, kids will learn about the history behind the supernatural world in this mystical guide. They'll meet Indigenous healers, understand what caused the Salem witch trials, and discover why people hid "witch bottles" under their doors.

Animals

The Wild Season: The Remarkable True Story of a Rabbit Rescue

by Dashka Slater, illustrated by Jamey Christoph

available in September, hardcover, Little Brown Books

Dashka Slater is one of my favorite non-fiction writers and I was so excited to hear about her middle grade debut! This story is full of bunny facts and compassion for these little critters. It is a great book for kids who enjoy stories about animals, the protection or rescue of animals, or just an interesting true story about a community working together. –Kendra

Early Shopper Gift Idea!

Mighty Myths:

And How to Survive Them

by Thiago de Moraes

available in September, hardcover, Little Bee Books

Beware, this book is full of monsters! The mythical world is a place of peril, but this handy guide will help you survive these tales. Mighty Myths is a spectacular funfilled intro to the magnificent myths and legends of different cultures around the world. Discover many fearsome creatures, brave the end of the world, feast like a god, and more in this fantastic book complete with dazzling illustrations!

Science

Spooky Rivers: 25 Strange and Mysterious Rivers that Snake Across Our Planet

by Geo Rutherford

available in September, hardcover, Abrams

Take the plunge into 25 of the strangest, spookiest, and most fascinating rivers around the world (if you dare) in this beautifully illustrated companion to Spooky Lakes—the bestseller from TikTok star and educator Geo Rutherford.

Top Notch Titles Check out our display of award-winners and staff picks for young readers!

Science & Nature

Song of the Cedars: Reorganizing the Rights of Nature

by Robert Macfarlane, Cosmo Sheldrake, César Rodríguez-Garavito, Giuliana Furci, illustrated by Paula Terán Ospina available in November, hardcover, Magic Cat This beautiful book is a vital act of nature activism in its own right. Brought to you by the MOTH collective—an interdisciplinary group of world-class creatives and legal advocates who merge art and law to champion “more than human” rights—this book marks a publishing first: the Los Cedros Cloud Forest will have its moral rights asserted as a co-creator, the first time a natural being has been legally recognized in the publishing world. Turn the elaborately illustrated pages to discover the extraordinary plants, animals, and fungi of Los Cedros Cloud Forest, one of the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth. Then, fold the pages out to create a grand panoramic scene that explores the delicate interconnectedness of nature.

Pre-Order Your Copy Today!

58 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Middle Grade Titles The Secret Bookstore Sleuth Society (Deluxe Edition)

by Lindsay Currie

available in September, hardcover, Sourcebooks

In this exciting murder series starter, four best friends are trapped in a book-themed inn during an ice storm and they must use each of their special skills, as well as a few tips from an armchair-detective grandma, to figure out who killed one of the regular customers.

Socks & Secret Quests

(The Wandering Shop #01)

by Triona Murphy, illustrated by James Firnhaber

available in September, paperback and hardcover, Atheneum Books for Young Readers

This is one of my favorite middle grade novels that I've read in a while! Combining classic fantasy adventure with a little dash of cozy fantasy and lovable characters that we get to see grow and learn how to work as a team. Plus, is there any magic more fun and creative than knitting magic?? Because this has knitting magic. I can't wait for the next one to come out (but don't worry, there's no big cliffhanger)! –Caitriona

Dasia (Forever)

by Nic Stone

available in October, hardcover, Crown Books for Young Readers

Bouncing between current moments, mostly in the hospital, and letters to her older brother in one of his empty notebooks, Dasia (Forever) brings forward the complicated intricacies of family alongside dealing with cancer as a child. From the world of Dear Martin, Nic Stone provides readers a beautiful and heart wrenching story. Want to try more novels in verse? Dasia (Forever) is an absolute gem to see how powerful poetry can be. –Kat

To Be Excited About The Unusuals

by Gail Carson Levine available in September, hardcover, Quill Tree Books

Get ready to be fully submerged into medieval England through the lives of three friends who, based on their spiritual beliefs, shouldn't even talk to one another!

I'm inspired by how their friendship stayed strong through loss, grief, and oppression in order to protect their loved ones.

The village's feudal era atmosphere in comparison to our society today intrigued me the most. I highly recommend this book to any child or adult interested in the feudal time period! –Courtney

Building 903

by Lois Lowry

available in September, hardcover, Clarion Books

The two-time Newbery medalist for Number the Stars and The Giver has written another sensational middle grade novel that promises to inspire young readers to advocate for themselves and their freedoms. In Lois Lowry’s newest dystopian novel, Building 903, compliance with tyrannical censorship is embedded in the culture. However, 14-year-old Tessa strays from society’s strict rules and learns about the magical powers of books and their link to creativity, individuality and imagination while searching for her missing twin, Theo.

The Intergalactics

by Erik Jon Slangerup

available in September, hardcover, Aladdin

If you dig aliens, space, and monsters then this one is your jam! This is one actionpacked dystopian novel that is great for a reluctant reader who’s looking for non-stop entertainment! -Kendra

Graphic Novel Front Desk: The Graphic Novel

by Kelly Yang, illustrated by Fumio Obata available in October, paperback, Graphix

Get ready— if you love the Front Desk series, you are going to devour the graphic novel adaptation of the first book of the series. It was delightful revisiting Mia’s story through Fumio Obata's illustrations. Follow Mia as she finds her own voice while sticking up for others as she clings to her own values. –Kat

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

59

Wednesday, October 14, 5pm

Parent & Educator

BOOK TALK

Parents, grandparents, guardians, and pre-K–12 educators are invited to join VB booksellers as we celebrate new releases in children's literature.

Whether you're looking for great gift ideas, want fresh reads in your classroom, or are simply a fan of all things kid-lit, then stop by for a listen.

In four 15-minute rounds, Village Books staff members will share picture books, early reader series, middle grade books, and young adult books. We will also welcome special guests from Scholastic and Harper Collins joining us to discuss exciting new releases from their publishing houses.

There will be give-aways! This event is FREE to attend, so grab your friends, you colleagues, or the grandparents and come on down to the Readings Gallery in Fairhaven.

Pre-K

through

Grade 12

Attention Educators!

Village Books and Paper Dreams appreciates the hardworking and inspiring people who are working with our community's young people on a daily basis. To support you in your endeavors, we have some new and ongoing special resources for educators:

• Get a discount when you buy local 10% discount to educators on books and supplies purchased for use in the classroom (with registration in our Reader Rewards Program and Teacher Discount Program). Bring your school ID and ask a bookseller to help you sign up.

• Create a wish list for your classroom or library on our website Add as many books as you like and share the list with your families.

• Bring your class on a field trip to Village Books Available for preschool through high school. Check out our new menu of field trip options by visiting villagebooks.com / scan the code below.

• Sign up for our quaretly Educators and Schools enewsletter Keep up to date on all the latest happenings and offerings—never miss out!

Find all of this and more, including author visits, annual teacher appreciation, and fundraising opportunities at villagebooks.com/community/educators-schools 60 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Fun for the Whole Family Author Events at Village Books in Fairhaven • Free to Attend!

Saturday, September 19, 3pm

Saturday, September 26, 3pm

Courtney Sawyer

Barbara Herkert

Jessica Finstuen

-Heronry Do you love herons? Join us and Barbara Herkert as she teaches us all about herons alongside beautiful illustrations in her new book, Heronry. Poetic text paired with factual sidebars and rich, kid-friendly illustrations make this a perfect read for bird-loving readers of all ages.

&

–A Quiet Place Join author Courtney Sawyer and illustrator Jessica Finstuen as they teach kids how to find inner peace in their new book, A Quiet Place!

Brenda Tarrida

ALL FREE EVENTS! Register to save your seats at villagebooks.com

–Pretty is as Pretty Does

Sunday, September 27, Saturday, October 3, 3pm 3pm

Join us as this local author discusses her brand-new book, Pretty is as Pretty Does, which teaches us a lesson about kindness and friendship. Pretty is a remarkable little girl who always sees the good in everyone. Regardless of the challenges she faces, she responds with kindness, compassion, and genuine love—making the world a better place one friendship at a time.

Susan E. Greisen Saturday, October 3, 3pm

–This Boy Will Do Great Things Join us as local award-winning author Susan E. Greisen teaches us we all are capable of following our dreams.

Inspired by the true story of a wildlife guide she met in Botswana, Susan learned that no matter where children live, somewhere a child is watching, learning, and dreaming…and someday that child, too, will do great things.

Allison Schoening Rataezyk –Perseverant Piper Join us as this local author shares her charming new tale of adventure set right here in the Pacific Northwest! Join Piper as she trades her unlucky pencil for muddy hiking boots and sets off on an adventure through Olympic National Park. She encounters numerous challenges but with perseverance, courage, and a little help from nature, she learns that obstacles can become opportunities for growth. Don't miss out!

Saturday, October 17, 3pm

Turn for More!

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

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61

Saturday, February 27

children’s literature conference

Save the Date!

2027

Featuring Authors & Illustrators:

Bellingham, WA

Join Village Books for a day of amazing Children’s Literature!

This annual conference is a fun-filled day of learning and celebrating children and young adult literature. The day will include author and illustrator presentations, book sales, autographs, and a question-and-answer panel.

Registration Opens

• Alan GRATZ • Corinna LUYKEN • Leah JOHNSON • Jasmine WARGA

in October!

watch WACLC.com Kids Open Mic Last Mondays from 5-6pm

Ages 18 and Under

Village Books in Fairhaven invites kids 18 and under to share their own stories, poems and essays at our monthly Open Mic just for kids!

Reading in front of a supportive audience is an excellent way to build self-confidence, improve public speaking skills, and foster creative expression. By participating in low-pressure opportunities like the Village Books Open Mic, children can learn to articulate thoughts, overcome fears, and develop empathy in a fun, safe, engaging space.

Pre-registration to read is required and spaces are limited so please email host Seán Dwyer at sean@seandwyerauthor.com to secure a spot!

September 28 • *November 5 • November 30 at Village Books in Fairhaven *note special date 62 Fall 2026

Sunday, November 8, 12pm-5pm It’s back! The Open Book festival for readers is returning to the Ferndale Events Center this November. Join the Whatcom County Library System, Village Books, and the Whatcom County Library Foundation for this book lover’s dream day. Featured authors include bestselling Newberry Medal-winner,

Donna Barba Higuera!

WCLS.ORG/OPENBOOK Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

More Author Events at Village Books in Fairhaven • Free to Attend!

Julia Kuo Mountainous

Book Launch!

Fall Nature of Writing Series

When the world moves so fast, mountains seem to stand still. But mountains move and change just like you... Can you imagine? From award-winning author-illustrator Julia Kuo comes a wondrous exploration into mountains. Her event will include a reading, brief talk, plus coloring and a fun rock-matching activity—don't miss out!

Saturday, October 24, 3pm

Author & Illustrator

Stephanie Peirce

The Inventor & Christen Mattix of Stripes What happens when you find yourself riding a tiger? In this book, you will find gentle advice to consider if that happens to you. A book for all ages!

Celebrating Children's Books

Saturday, November 7, 3pm

Books: Get Curious

During Children's Book Week—November 9-15, 2026—and Beyond!

Daniel Nayeri

Mark Your Calendars!

Sunday, November 8, 6pm at Sehome High School

Ticket information coming soon!

National Book Award, Newbery Honor, and Michael L. Printz Award-winning author Daniel Nayeri will join us to discuss his craft and his newest book, This is a Door—a groundbreaking heroes journey.

A young boy, a mouse, and a dog set out to find their purpose in this fairy tale adventure told in an innovative visual format that offers a one-of-a-kind reading experience. This Is a Door is full of fun surprises and poignant musings that flip the classic hero's journey on its head-all in an artistic and inventive package that is a wonder to behold.

Daniel Nayeri was born in Iran and spent years as a refugee before immigrating to Oklahoma at age seven with his family. He is the author of several books including Everything Sad Is Untrue (A True Story), The Many Assassinations of Samir The Seller of Dreams, and The Teacher of Nomad Land.

Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

63

Young Adult Reads The Heirs

Catching Feelings

by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

by Emily Charlotte

available now, hardcover, Feiwel & Friends

One wealthy father. Five adoptees. Four prodigies. The Button Heirs live only to please their father—the man who made them the prodigies they are. Some are desperate to please, while others are desperate to escape, and all are motivated by receiving their inheritance. But when Mr. Button is found murdered, the siblings must face their rivalries, secrets, and motivations in a race to uncover the truth of their family, father, and selves. –Chloe H.

The Harrow Home for Wayward Girls available now, hardcover, Henry Holt and Co.

by Laura Creedle

The Harrow Home for Wayward Girls has housed hundreds of young women hidden away during their pregnancies, their homesick cries echoing through the halls. In this gothic historical tale, two girls must uncover the secrets of their haunted home before it's too late. "Darkly atmospheric and impossible to put down."–Shea Earnshaw, bestselling author of The Wicked Deep

available in September, hardcover, HarperCollins

If you thrill at the thought of a terrifying tale then this will definitely freak you out! I love the blend of American folklore and the general eeriness that the story. Go on an adventure with Jess as she finds out what evils haunts the halls of Danvers-Cutteridge School in West Virginia. –Kendra

Nightcurse

Banned Together:

by Emma Hinds

Our Fight for Readers' Rights

available in October, hardcover, Wednesday Books

edited by Ashley Hope Pérez illustrated by Debbie Fong

available now, paperback, Candlewick Press

Books are disappearing from shelves across the country. What does this mean for authors, illustrators, and—most crucially—for young readers? This dazzling YA anthology spotlights the transformative power of books while equipping teens to fight for the freedom to read, featuring the voices of 15 diverse, award-winning authors and illustrators.

Free to Attend

A sweet and swoony sports romance! You will become completely invested in these characters and I know romance readers will be loving on this cinnamon roll footballer Tyler and the headstrong and driven cutie Sabrina! –Kendra

by Jessica Spotswood

The Girl in Green

Meet the Author!

available in September, paperback, Margaret K. McElderry Books

A perfect spooky read for fall! This is a standalone novel full of dark academia, occult and romance! It was seriously a pleasure to read from start to finish and its full of humor as well as having some serious revelations coming from protagonist Emrys who’s been stuck at 17 years-old for over 100 years but meeting shapeshifter Aubrey puts them on a journey of self-discovery. –Kendra

Monday, October 5, 6pm

Heidi Fedore at Village Books in Fairhaven

The Uncommon AP Club

What happens when the lives of four very different members of the start-up AP Club begin mirroring the novels they’re studying? Join us as we welcome local author Heidi Fedore to find out!

In The Uncommon AP Club, these disparate evolving academics just might learn the true nature of friendship and the satisfaction of social justice in this mash up of Pride and Prejudice, Emma, A Passage to India, and Lord of the Flies.

64 Fall 2026

Building Community One Book at a Time

Reading

Recommendations For Teens By Teens

Y.A.R.C. (yark), n.

1. Young Adult Review Committee.

2. A select group of local teens and young adults reading and writing reviews of brand-spanking-new books.

3. Awesome.

Our YARC members have been busy reading and are excited to share the titles they've recently enjoyed. All of these titles are available now or for pre-order from Village Books. Find more reviews at villagebooks.com and on display in Fairhaven.

Heavensent & Hellbent

Killing Sadie

available now, hardcover, Delacorte Press

available now, hardcover, Simon Pulse

Heavensent & Hellbent was a read that had me laughing my heart out one page and bawling my eyes out the next. This book was beautifully written and embraced themes of love, loss, and finding yourself. The main character, Roxana, finds out that demons and angels exist, after she sees the boy from her nightmares, Zain, kill a demon. Together the two of them might restart a decades long feud, which leads us to ask, is their love worth confronting both good and evil? I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Shatter Me, or The Once Upon a Broken Heart series. –Kiona, age 15

Do you want a book filled with intrigue, mystery, and a killer? Then Killing Sadie is the perfect book for you! This book kept me on the edge of my seat and I was so hooked that I finished it in one day! The story is told through three police reports, her twin sister Jayne, her best friend Liz, and her boyfriend Ben. Everyone is devastated and heartbroken, but not everyone is telling the truth. Sadie's picture-perfect life might have not been so perfect after all, and it turns out someone has a long list of reasons to kill Sadie. –Kiona, age 15

Our Y.A.R.C. program offers teens ages 13-18 the opportunity to read yet-to-be-published books, also known as ARCs (Advanced Reader Copies). In exchange for this privilege, they write reviews for Village Books to use for recommendations to our customers. Y.A.R.C. meets once a month on a Friday afternoon throughout the school year at our Fairhaven store. Interested in joining? Complete the application form at villagebooks.com.

by Joy McCullough

by Sara Jafari

by Rachel Peterson

YA RC .

.

.

.

The Healers of Harlem: The Black Women Who Changed Medicine Forever

Suffer a Witch available now, hardcover, Dutton Books for Young Readers

I appreciated the author's vulnerable yet poetic writing style, even if you're like me and don't gravitate towards books in verse. I think that many girls, not just those who have experienced abuse, will relate to Joy and her life as a teenager. Reading this made me want to jump through the pages just so she could have somebody to console and cry with. –Coco, age 18

Non-Fiction

by Nina Chhita

available now, hardcover, Dutton Books for Young Readers

I'm in awe, simple as that. Nina Chhita's writing was absolutely captivating; her descriptions of the lives and stories of the workers of the Harlem Hospital creates vivid and lively pictures in your mind that keeps you turning pages till way too late in the night (oops!). She beautifully narrates and transcribes the life and struggles Black women faced while cementing their names in medical history. If you liked Hidden Figures, you will definitely enjoy The Healers of Harlem.

Personally, this book has easily made my top five favorite reads of the year and I think everyone, no matter the background, can easily be inspired by reading this book. –Keladry, age 15

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Memoir in Verse

Enjoy additional reviews on our Y.A.R.C. web page at villagebooks. com­and on display at Village Books in Fairhaven!

Fall 2026

65

2027 Calendars Are Here!

Select from an amazing variety of styles— something for all tastes and ages!

Can't Decide?

Let Them!

Village Books Gift Cards

Use for in-store AND online purchases!

• Perfect for All Ages • No Expiration Date 66 Fall 2026

• Fits Inside Cards • Supports Local Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

2026

Summer Fun! We hope you enjoyed spending the Summer with Village Books. We can't wait until next year!

You Found WALDO!

Reah d wit Pridee!!

We Shared

PRIDE

In Bellingham

Village Books

ALL Stories Deserve a Voice

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE

We had a blast with the

BELLINGHAM BELLS

Completed!

PAPER DREAMS

Renovation was

CELEBRATED! You Enjoyed the

FAIRHAVEN

OUTDOOR CINEMA Thank You for Shopping Local

Fall 2026

67

BOOK

GROUPS OPEN to ALL!

Silent Book Group Do you love reading, enjoy being around others with the same passion, yet don't want to feel pressured to interact?

A Silent Book Club is just what you need.

Community Connections Community Book Group Partnerships Include

Bellingham Symphony Orchestra Book Group Village Books has partnered Bellingham Symphony Orchestra to offer reading recommendations that tie into the theme, the music, or the composers of each Symphony concert this season.

Book Discussion at Village Books • Wednesday, Sept. 23, 6pm –The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern Pair the book with the concert Star-Cross'd Dreams on October 4, 3pm at Mount Baker Theatre

Join us at the Next Chapter Cafe for the Silent Book Club—located on the mezzanine level of Village Books in Fairhaven—on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 5:30pm. There are no reading assignments. BYO book or purchase a new read from the store—you read whatever you want at your own pace while enjoying tasty cafe fare!

Optional social time rounds out each evening.

1st & 3rd Mondays, 5:30pm-7:30pm September 7 & 21 • October 5 & 19 November 2 & 16

Forest Talks & Forest Walks Book Group

Watch for details and links to attend

Book Discussion at Village Books • Wednesday, Nov. 11, 6pm –Goodbye Russia: Rachmaninoff in Exile

by Fiona Maddocks Pair the book with the concert Longing In Exile on November 22, 3pm at Mount Baker Theatre

Find concert tickets and details at mountbakertheatre.com Join a different kind of book club—where stories spark action, ideas grow into movements, and our love for forests brings us together.

This book group is about more than books—it’s about being in right relationship with place. Enjoy virutal discussions followed by a forest walk.

October - December, 2026 Finding the Mother Tree

by Suzanne Simard

Forest Talks & Forest Walks is a collaboration between RE Sources, the Center for Responsible Forestry, The Legacy Forest Defense Coalition, and the Whatcom Million Tree Project.

Local Book Groups

Open to the Public

In addition to our our own sponsored groups, some genrespecific local book groups, open to new members, are now listed on our website, including: • The Bellingham Horror Book Group & • Romantasy Readers Book Club See villagebooks.com for more information!

68 Fall 2026

Register

YOUR

Book Group

with Village Books Book groups registered with Village Books receive a 15% discount on their monthly reads. To register your book group with us, email bookgroups@villagebooks.com!

Building Community One Book at a Time

BOOK

Village Books both hosts and co-sponsors a variety of lively book groups and YOU are invited to join in! All are welcome.

GROUPS OPEN to ALL!

Find additional information under the Readers Corner tab at villagebooks.com. Book groups are free to attend no registration required.

Breathe Well, Be Well Join us at 4pm on the third Mondays of each month in the Fairhaven VB Readings Gallery. A discussion series exploring healthier living through breathwork, with guided breathing practice and reflection on stress, screens, and wellbeing.

VB

• Sept. 21 –In Defense of Food: Reads...

An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan • Oct. 15 – Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

by James Clear • November 16 –The Oxygen Advantage: Simple, Scientifically Proven Breathing Techniques to Help You by Patrick McKeown

VB Reads...

Motherhood by the Book Join in on an hour of spirited discussion of books that celebrate the trials, tribulations, and rewards of motherhood. This group meets on the second Sunday of the month at 2pm in the Writer's Corner on the mezzanine level of Village Books in Fairhaven.

VB Reads...

Activists & Democracy Lovers

Join us at 4pm on the third Thursday of each month in the Fairhaven VB Readings Gallery. A book club and then some, we read books and explore other multimedia sources that not only help us understand our world, but inspire and show us how to make it better.

• Sept. 17 –How to Stand Up to a Dictator: The Fight for Our Future by Maria Ressa • Oct. 15 – From Dictatorship to Democracy: A Conceptual Framework for Liberation

by Gene Sharp • November 19 –Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

by Brené Brown

Unless otherwise noted, authors do not attend book groups.

Afternoon Book Chat

Join Sittrea in the Readings Gallery on second Wednesdays of the month at 1pm for a lively early afternoon book chat. All welcome.

• September 13 –Go as a River

by Shelley Read • October 11 –Positively Uncivilized by Rena Priest • November 15 –Heartwood : A Novel by Amity Gaige

• September 9 –The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann • October 14 –The Island of the Sea Women

by Lisa See • November 11 –The House in the Cerulean Sea

by TJ Klune

Armchair Historians VB Reads...

VB Reads...

Let's chat, discuss, and dissect the most current and interesting history being written. We meet in the Readings Gallery at Village Books in Fairhaven the third Monday of the month at 6pm.

• September 21 –The Great Fire of London: In That Apocalyptic Year, 1666

by Neil Hanson Watch villagebooks.com for additional reading selections

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

VB Reads...

3rd Wednesdays

Lynden Front Streeters

• September 16, 7pm at Village Books in Lynden –Pachinko by Min Jin Lee See page 37 for more reading selections!

Participants receive 15% off all book group reading selections. Just mention the group when paying!

VB Reads...

Hosted by Village Books Fall 2026

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Don't Miss Out! Receive VB Email Updates Every week, Village Books sends out an email newsletter packed full of store and book information including our upcoming Literature Live events.

Sign up for this newsletter and a diverse selection of other newsletters in the store or at villagebooks.com today!

VB READS

Book Groups Village Books hosts multiple book groups who read and discuss a variety of genres. Flip back to pages 68 & 69 to find a group that works for you! Watch villagebooks.com for meeting times and reading selections. All are welcome!

Monthly

OPEN MICS Chuckanut Sandstone Writers Theater Open Mic

Chuckanut Sandstone Writers Theater

Chuckanut Sandstone Writers Theater (CSWT) Open Mic is now held at Village Books in Fairhaven on the third Tuesday of the month at 6pm. Our CSWT emcee is Carla Shafer, who founded Bellingham’s first continuous Open Mic in Bellingham in 1991.

Pre-registration to read is encouraged—please email Carla Shafer at chuckanutsandstone@gmail.com to secure your spot!

September 15• October 20• November 17 This group meets the Third Tuesdays of the month starting at 6pm.

Open Mic with Seán Dwyer

*Last Mondays from 6-7pm VB WRITES

Writing Groups Village Books is excited to host a variety of writing groups —each with a unique focus. Turn to page 24 for a full list and meeting times then see villagebooks.com for descriptions.

Be sure to sign up for our Just Write! eNewsletter, a monthly publication highlighting current classes, tips and tricks, writing book reviews and the like!

Writing

Workshops & Classes Village Books and WCC Community & Continuing Education program have created a writing instruction collaboration called Chuckanut Writers to support writers at all stages of their writing journey throughout the year.

Turn to pages 25 & 26 for upcoming classes and go to whatcom.edu for more information, prices, and to register.

Chuckanut Writers 70 Fall 2026

Village Books invites everyone to enjoy local talents as they share their own stories, poems and essays. Published and unpublished writers are encouraged to attend and enjoy a welcoming audience. Our regular emcee and celebrated local author, Seán Dwyer, is our monthy host!

Pre-registration to read is required and spaces are limited so whether you plan to read in person or on Zoom, please email Seán at sean@seandwyerauthor.com to secure your spot!

September 28 •*November 5 • November 30 *Please Note - The October Open Mic has moved to one week later

KIDS!

KIDS OPEN MIC with Seán Dwyer

*Last Mondays from 5-6pm Village Books in Fairhaven invites kids 18 and under to share their own stories, poems and essays. Our regular emcee and celebrated local author Seán Dwyer will host.

Pre-registration to read is required and spaces are limited so please email Seán at sean@seandwyerauthor.com to secure a spot!

September 28 •*November 5 • November 30 *Please Note - The October Open Mic has moved to one week later

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

Literature LIVE! EVENTS

The Village Books Literary Events Program

Additions and changes to this schedule will occur so check out

VillageBooks.com

to stay updated – or even better, let us come to you!

Register for the Village Books eNewsletter!

September 2026 Tuesday, September 1, 6pm JULIE SALMON KELLEHER –The Sea-Glass Shore

Experience Bellingham in an alternate reality as local author and WWU Instructor Julie Salmon Kelleher debuts her new book, The Sea-Glass Shore! When Jack, folklorist, meets half-seal Rona, she puts aside her sealskin to live as his human wife. Jack knows all selkie stories end the same: the seal returns to the sea. But could understanding a troubled family past be enough to change it?

Wednesday, Sept. 2, 7pm The Chuckanut Radio Hour at Lairmont Manor, Bellingham

Dr. Mary Fariba Afsari –Labor: One Woman’s Work

Join us for another exciting live taping of The Chuckanut Radio Hour —a local radio show featuring humor, literature, poetry, skits, and local music. Our guest author will be esteemed OB-GYN Dr. Mary Fariba Afsari. She will share her powerful memoir of medicine, identity, and family secrets as she unravels her grandmother’s mysterious death while reimagining women’s health care from a mobile clinic. Doors open and music starts at 6:30pm. Tickets $10 - available now.

A Fall Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event presented with NCI

Thursday, September 3, 6pm LYANDA LYNN HAUPT –Among the Birds:

Unless otherwise noted, events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven and include a book presentation/reading, plus a Q&A. Registration to save your seat is required for most events. When a $5 fee applies, you will receive a voucher for that amount to use for purchases at the event!

Tickets may be available at the door.

Details & registration at VILLAGEBOOKS.COM Saturday, September 5, 3pm SHOSHANA D. KEREWSKY –The Codex of Christian Surname

Enter a world of knowledge and adventure in this alternate Middle Ages tale with award-winning author Shoshana Kerewsky! In an alternate late Middle Ages, an intriguing stranger arrives in 13-yearold Havah’s village in the Iverian mountains. Havah’s life will change, but is the visitor who she seems? Sometimes dressed as male and in other guises, Havah traverses the region, explores the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, and learns more about her own Xudish culture and those of Cristianismo, Islama, and Budism.

Nature of Writing Speaker Series

Sunday, September 6, 6pm MIRIAM HORN –Homesick for a World Unknown: The Life of George B. Schaller

Join us as author Miriam Horn shares her new book about the fascinating life of field biologist George B. Schaller. In this riveting portrait, Miriam Horn captures the seventy years Schaller spent living among wild animals in the world’s remotest regions, forever altering how we see—and save—the natural world. Presented in partnership with North Cascades Institute.

Tuesday, September 8, 6pm An Evening of Mindfulness with Tim Burnett

Curious about how to bring mindfulness into your life?

Start here! Join mindfulness practitioner Tim Burnett, Founder and Senior Teacher of Mindfulness Northwest, for an exploration of well-being. Expect a one-hour interactive presentation that will introduce you to the principles of mindfulness, touch on stress physiology, and explore how mindfulness practices can help enhance our well-being.

Simple practices of breathing and movement will support our discussion.

You’ll leave with a handout and a tool kit of simple practices to use at work and home.

Wednesday, September 9, 6pm KATHLEEN SCHWAB

Field Notes From Cascadia

in conversation with Marla Tuski

Join us for a lyrical and observant exploration and enchanting celebration of Pacific Northwest birds with New York Times-bestselling author, Lyanda Lynn Haupt. With her new book, Among the Birds, readers will join Haupt on a wandering journey through the region’s avian world, drifting intuitively among species, much like you encounter birds on a neighborhood amble, forest trail, or windy shoreline. Haupt will be a guest author on the sold out 2026 Books A’ Sail bookgroup at sea as well as a featured author at the September 17 Chuckanut Radio Hour!

Fans of romantasy and the world of fae— look no further! Join Kathleen Schwab as she presents her lush, historical fantasy that transports readers to 12th-century Ireland. “A beautifully written fantasy debut! Lyrical, enchanting, adventurous—a book that you will remember long after you turn the last page.” –Stacey Marie Brown, bestselling author

Thank You for Shopping Local

–Queenswood

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Thursday, September 10, 6pm STACY CARLSON –The Gyre

Journey into the frozen wilds with award-winning author Stacy Carlson and her newest book, The Gyre, a mystical tale of faith and folklore! An atmospheric journey into the far northern wilds, The Gyre spins one man’s search for meaning into an astonishing saga where adventure, folklore, and the Arctic converge.

Friday, September 11, 6pm ROYCE BUCKINGHAM –Monster Lawyer

Literature

LIVE!

Thursday, September 17, 7pm The Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring EILEEN GARVIN and LYANDA LYNN HAUPT at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, Fairhaven

Imagine your childhood monster shows up...and it wants YOU to be its lawyer.️ Join Royce Buckingham at Village Books for a monstrously fun evening celebrating Monster Lawyer—where attorney Daniel Becker must defend his childhood nemesis, the monster from under his bed. Expect: Monsters with legal problems, a secret supernatural court, sharp wit and laugh-out-loud moments, a reading, Q&A, and book signing. Bonus: This is one of the first opportunities to get a limited-edition English-language copy of Monster Lawyer! Until now, only readers and listeners in Germany have had the pleasure of meeting Daniel Becker and his wonderfully weird clients.Buckingham's middle grade fantasy series, Demonkeeper, has been translated into 11 languages worldwide.

Join us for a special taping of the Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring live entertainment including the guest authors from this year's Books A'Sail cruise! An Eastern Washington native, Eileen Garvin's novels The Music of Bees and Crow Talk, are national bestsellers.

Her third novel, Bumblebee Season, was published this year. Lyanda Lynn Haupt is an award-winning author, naturalist, ecophilosopher, and speaker whose work explores the beautiful, complicated connections between humans and the wild, natural world. We'll hear about her new book, Among the Birds. Tickets available now!

Saturday, September 12, 3pm ALLENE HALLIDAY –Diary of a Dancin’ Girl –Fifties Kids

Friday, September 18, 6pm AMY SMYTH MILLER

From the Showbox to vaudeville to tours across the US and Canada, join Allene Halliday as she shares the story of two sisters making their way in 1950s show business!

Anacortes native Pat Kuklenski broke into show business at the age of 15 when she and her older sister, Allene Halliday, traveled to Seattle to audition for the chorus line at the Showbox—and they were hired. Just like that, two small-town girls found themselves on stage. If we're lucky, Allene will also share tales from her earlier book, Fifties Kids!

Saturday, September 12, 6pm FRANCIE ALLEN –Love, Sex, and Dementia What if the most passionate love affair of your life began in your 60s—and ended with your lover’s dementia? And what if life in your 60s became more erotic, more spiritually alive— and more devastating —than anything that came before? Raw, luminous, and unsparingly honest, Love, Sex, and Dementia traces one woman’s journey through love and loss, sexuality and spirit, heartbreak and grace.

Wednesday, September 16, 6pm CURTIS WHITE –On Resistance: A Manifesto

Meet Curtis White, author of On Resistance, for a timely conversation on culture, democracy, and standing up to tyranny! In On Resistance, Curtis White offers spiritual hope and intellectual fortification for those in despair about the bankruptcy of American life. Drawing on a range of books, films, essays, and artworks, White shows how our rich collective cultural heritage gives us resources for our fight against the forces that would reduce us all to commodities and consumers.

72 Fall 2026

in conversation with

Stephanie Copeland –Home: A Memoir of Family, Forgiveness, and Healing from Complex PTSD

Join author Amy Smyth Miller as she shares her moving new book—a love letter to survival, transformation, trauma, and forgiveness! Part investigation, part love letter to survival, Home is a courageous story of trauma and transformation, love and forgiveness, and realizing that sometimes the home you're searching for is the one you build inside yourself.

A Free Event for Kids!

Saturday, September 19, 3pm BARBARA HEKERT –Heronry

Do you love herons? Join us and Barbara Herkert as she teaches us all about herons alongside beautiful illustrations in her new book, Heronry. Every year great blue herons return to the same nesting grounds, squawking over the best nests, making repairs, and preparing for little herons in a seemingly choreographed display. Discover the habitat and routines of these stunning birds with this up-close perspective.

Poetic text paired with factual sidebars and rich, kid-friendly illustrations make this a perfect read for bird loving readers of all ages.

Unless otherwise noted, events include a presentation, Q&A, book signing, and take place in the Readings Gallery of Village Books in Fairhaven 1200 11th St, Bellingham, WA

Building Community One Book at a Time

Saturday, September 19, 6pm SIBYL JAMES –Dizzier Than Gillespie

Join us in welcoming author Sibyl James as she introduces Dizzier Than Gillespie—a bold, lyrical feminist novel where travel, friendship, politics, and a touch of magic collide. In it, an American poet lands in Tunisia and finds herself swept into a whirlwind of fighting for justice mixed with mythic visions. Infused with jazz rhythms, sensual wit, and political edge, the novel celebrates women who claim space, defy silence, and live gloriously off‑beat.

Sunday, September 20, 6pm KENNETH ALLEN BURR –Taillights on the Road to Healing

Join author Kenneth Burr for his transformative journey through transportation, faith and relationships in this open-hearted memoir! Taillights on the Road to Healing is a deeply personal and universally resonant story of love, trauma and resilience. Author Kenneth Burr recounts his transformation through transportation in this open-hearted memoir, traveling down the road to healing through faith and relationships. Years after adolescent sexual abuse, Ken grapples with his true identity. Through falling in love during a time of loss, building a family, and discovering the profound impacts of faith through his ministry, Ken learns that every road, no matter how many potholes, leads to an opportunity for new perspectives.

Thursday, September 24, 6pm RENATO WAKIM –Sound Bridges:

Stories and Journeys of Music, Survival, and Belonging

Explore the meaningful impact of music--from memory to human connection--with local author Renato Wakim!

Sound Bridges explores how music carries memory, belonging, and resilience across borders. Through stories from nine countries, the book reveals how listening becomes a lifeline in moments of upheaval and hope. A celebration of human connection, it invites readers to hear the world—and one another—with deeper attention.

Friday, September 25, 6pm DAVID SCOBORIA –Voices of my Fathers:

A Five-Hundred-Year Journey

Every person has a story to tell. When we die, our stories linger briefly in the memories of our children and grandchildren. But clues are left behind, breadcrumbs on the trail of our lives. Some of them can be found.

There are no kings or villains in these stories. Only tales of my fathers.

A Free Event for Kids!

Saturday, September 26, 3pm COURTNEY SAWYER AND JESSICA FINSTUEN –A Quiet Place

Join author Courtney Sawyer and illustrator Jessica Finstuen as they teach kids how to find inner peace.

In a hectic neighborhood, a child finds a secret pond, filled with busy wildlife and solitude. Together, they share this quiet place and discover a calm that can be carried with them. Written in stanzas and beautifully illustrated, A Quiet Place is a story about the power of inner peace for people of all ages.

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

Literature

LIVE!

at Village Books IN LYNDEN Saturday, September 26, 4pm KARL PETERSEN –Left Unsaid

Join us in Lynden for author Karl Petersen as he discusses his coming of age novel that takes place in the 1960s, Left Unsaid. Can love truly survive all else? Left Unsaid confronts questions of sexuality, masculinity, race, faith, and war. A compelling, must-read story with profound significance for our times.

A Free Event for Kids!

Sunday, September 27, 3pm BRENDA TARRIDA –Pretty Is As Pretty Does: Pretty and Bridget

Join us for local author Brenda Tarrida as she discusses her brand-new book, Pretty is as Pretty Does, which teaches us a lesson about kindness and friendship. Pretty is a remarkable little girl who always sees the good in everyone. Regardless of the challenges she faces, she responds with kindness, compassion, and genuine love—making the world a better place one friendship at a time.

Sunday, September 27, 6pm ELLEN KUHLMANN and MARK TURNER –WESTERN Washington and Oregon in Bloom AND –EASTERN Washington and Oregon in Bloom: Find and Identify the 150 Most Common Wildflowers Join us in welcoming Ellen Kuhlmann and Mark Turner and learn about the illustrious plant-life that decorates our beautiful state! We'll celebrate the release of two new guides in Timber Press's In Bloom series: In Bloom: Western Washington & Oregon and In Bloom: Eastern Washington & Oregon. These practical, pocket-sized field guides help hikers, wildflower enthusiasts, and beginners identify the region's most common and intriguing blooms with full-color photographs and accessible descriptions.Whether it be colorful, showy plants, or the bizarre and deadly, these and more are presented here in these two easyto-use field guides that feature text and photographs of some of Eastern Washington, Western Washington, and Oregon’s more common and interesting wildflowers.

Want a signed edition of a book but can’t make it to the author's event? No problem!

Pre-purchase the title and request a signature or personalization. Ordering online? Place the request in the comments field at checkout.

Please order in person or by phone if you’re placing your order within 24 hours of the event.

Keep turning for more events

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Literature

October 2026

LIVE!

Friday, October 2, 6pm DR. KATIE EASTMAN –The Peace Guidebook:

How to Cultivate Hope, Healing, and Harmony for the Good of Humankind

As an extension of the global movement The Percolate Peace Project, The Peace Guidebook offers a practical, transformative roadmap for individuals, leaders, and organizations seeking to cultivate personal and collective peace, while also creating positive change in the world.

Saturday, October 3, 3pm SUSAN E. GREISEN –This Boy Will Do Great Things

KIDS! Free To Attend

Join us as this local award-winning author teaches how we are all are capable of following our dreams in her new children’s book, This Boy Will Do Great Things!

In a small village in Botswana, Dima lives where elephants roam, hippos splash, and snakes lurk in trees. His name means “This boy will do great things,” and he does. With courage, curiosity, and a love for the wild, Dima follows his dream—and changes his village forever. Inspired by the true story of a wildlife guide she met in Botswana, Susan learned that no matter where children live, somewhere a child is watching, learning, and dreaming…and someday that child, too, will do great things.

At Village Books IN LYNDEN Saturday, October 3, 4pm DAVE BENEDICT –Bill's War

Ferndale author Dave Benedict joins us in Lynden to discuss his haunting biographical novel, Bill's War, which shows us the terrifying reality of a soldier's mental health and the power of human kindness. Based on the true story, a young Army Air Corps pilot's promising life is shattered by battle-induced schizophrenia during World War II. This haunting story offers a contemporary message about the power of everyday human kindness.

Sunday, October 4, 6pm GAIL NOBLE-SANDERSON –Neither Life Nor Death

Gail Noble-Sanderson is back with another Drew Davies Railway Mystery! In Neither Life Nor Death, Drew is plunged into despair when named a suspect in a railway crime. Placed on leave from her job at the station, feeling distanced from friends and rapidly losing hope, Drew finds herself at a crossroads. Through strength, determination, and cunning, she moves the investigation forward, making astounding discoveries and creating a future she never saw coming.

A Free Young Adult Event!

Monday, October 5, 6pm HEIDI FEDORE –The Uncommon AP Club

Free all-ages event! Follow the The Uncommon AP Club as they smash through stereotypes and forge new friendships in Heidi Fedore's latest novel! The Uncommon AP Club spotlights four disparate students who defy stereotypes—the jock, the brain, and the cheerleader—and break out of their roles, forging friendships. These students audaciously become scholars and advocates, taking on an accusation and doubters.

Wednesday, October 7, 6pm TAD WILLIAMS –The Splintered Sun

Calling all fans of epic fantasy! Join us for New York Times Bestselling and legendary fantasy author Tad Williams as he discusses his brand-new book, The Splintered Sun! You won't want to miss this! Packed with action, unforgettable characters, and the sweeping imagination that has made Tad Williams one of fantasy’s most beloved voices, this is the high fantasy world of Osten Ard as you’ve never seen it before.

Village Books and Paper Dreams

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There is SO much going on at Village Books and Paper Dreams, we've expanded our eNewsletter offerings so you don't miss out! You can now select exactly what type of updates you would like to receive. In addition to our popular weekly News and Events newsletter, we have a wide variety of themed e-newsletters to choose from—pick one or all, it's up to you. Most arrive monthly.

• Kids and Families newsletter • Gifts and Decor newsletter • Book Clubs newsletter • Just Write! newsletter

• Staff Recommendations newsletter • Educators and Schools newsletter (quarterly) • News & Events (weekly)

Sign up for any or all of these newsletters through our home page at villagebooks.com 74 Fall 2026

Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours

A Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event presented in partnership with North Cascades Institute

Thursday, October 8, 6pm DAVID B. WILLIAMS in conversation with Saul Weisberg In the Range of Fire and Ice: A Human and Natural History of Washington’s Cascades Blending human and natural history into a vivid portrait of one of North America’s most dynamic landscapes, In the Range of Fire and Ice is a lively, groundbreaking exploration of Washington’s Cascade Range. Drawing on conversations with anthropologists, park rangers, ecologists, and climate scientists, as well as firsthand experience, award-winning author David B. Williams brings readers into the mountains to uncover stories etched in the landscape over millennia. Williams is an author, naturalist, and tour guide. He is the author of numerous books including Homewaters: A Human and Natural History of Puget Sound and Wild in Seattle: Stories at the Crossroads of People and Nature.

Friday, October 9, 6pm LAURA JOY LLOYD –Far From Unremarkable: A Wren Island Novel

Join Laura Joy Lloyd for an uplifting Pacific Northwest tale about friendship, community, and cherishing loved ones! Seventy-year-old Wallace Bernard moves to a remote island in the Pacific Northwest, ideal digs for a man accustomed to being invisible. Drawn by magnetic neighbors into troubleshooting a stalled-out romance, an aimless youngster’s prospects, and an unworldly woman’s sway toward independence, he becomes a trusted member of his new community—unaware he is inextricably linked to one neighbor’s enduring grief. When fresh loss dissolves his loner facade, magnanimous friends offer attentive support. But can Wallace find peace in being far from unremarkable?

Book Signing Saturday, October 10, 11am-1pm Village Books in Fairhaven Main Floor

SAM FLETCHER –Rice Mountain

Come meet local author Sam Fletcher and pick up a signed copy of his new book, Rice Mountain! Fletcher is the editor of Salish Current, a nonprofit news organization here in northwest Washington. His short fiction has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Stop by his table and say hi!

A Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event presented in partnership with North Cascades Institute

Saturday, October 10, 6pm RENA PRIEST –Dancing to the Ticking of the Doomsday Clock

Join us and the North Cascades Institute as celebrated local poet Rena Priest discusses her new collection, Dancing to the Ticking of the Doomsday Clock! In an age of contradiction, this poetry collection offers a dance of celebration and lament. It weaves indigenous wisdom, wit, and song into a prayer map for navigating our world, asking profound questions of the soul, love, and our place in nature.

Unless otherwise noted, events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven 1200 11th St., Bellingham, WA 98225

Thank You for Shopping Local

Literature

LIVE!

A Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event with North Cascades Institute

Sunday, October 11, 6pm MARINA RICHIE in conversation with Lyanda Lynn Haupt –Feathered Forest: Aloft with Birds in Ancient Trees

Join us for another installment in the Fall Nature of Writing Series with a discussion of Marina Richie's new book Feathered Forest, in which this award-winning nature writer entwines the lives of birds with a hidden vertical world of wild trees. Beginning with an ascent of a 200-foot-tall Douglas-fir with a bird biologist, author Marina Richie leads us from her home in Central Oregon into the ancient forests of Cascadia, a bioregion which rivals the Amazonian rainforest in significance for climate and biodiversity.

Monday, October 12, 6pm NADA ELIA Falastiniyyat: A Century

of Palestinian Feminisms

Join us for author Nada Elia as she shares the history of Palestinian women's powerful story of resistance in her new book, Falastiniyyat: A Century of Palestinian Feminisms! Women have been central to every phase of Palestinian resistance. Here Nada Elia recovers the long-suppressed story of Palestinian women’s organizing from 1929 to the present. Far from being a Western import, local feminism consistently linked personal empowerment with collective liberation, anticolonial struggle with social transformation. Nada Elia is a diasporic Palestinian scholar and activist whose work, both in the classroom and the streets, focuses on exposing and redressing structural systems of oppression. She is a founding member of the Palestinian Feminist Collective.

Tuesday, October 13, 6pm WDRC Youth Peace Poetry Contest Reading

Join us as local young poets share their voices! Every year, The Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center hosts an annual Youth Peace Poetry Contest, which inspires youth to write creatively about peace. Youth who entered the WDRC Youth Peace Poetry Contest will read their work aloud at this annual event. Village Books is a proud sponsor of this annual contest.

Wednesday, October 14, 5pm Parent and Educator Book Talk Attention Parents, Grandparents, Guardians, and Pre-K through Grade 12 educators! You are invited to join us in celebrating the latest and greatest in children's literature. In four 15-minute rounds, we'll share new picture books, early reader series, middle grade books, and young adult books.

Our own booksellers will be joined by special guests from Scholastic and Harper Collins Publishing to discuss exciting new releases! And to top it all off... there will be give-aways. This event is FREE to attend, so come on down to the Readings Gallery and enjoy an evening of children's literature.

Keep turning for more events

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Thursday, October 15, 7pm JODI PICOULT –Hollow Bones Tour

at Bellingham High School Join us as bestselling author Jodi Picoult returns to Bellingham to discuss her newest novel! Moving between past and present, Hollow Bones is an epic story of the lies we tell ourselves as we write the narratives of our lives, the plans we design to protect ourselves at the worst moments, and the ties that bind mothers and daughters. Each ticket includes a single admission to the event, a signed copy of Hollow Bones, and an optional professional photo with the author after the event. She will be joined by author SUSAN WIGGS—don't miss out!

Literature

LIVE!

Note: Additions and Changes to This Schedule WILL Occur so watch our website—or let us come to you.

Register for the Village Books weekly eNewsletter!

Friday, October 16, 6pm PAUL de BARROS –Jackson Street After Hours:

Sunday, October 18, 6pm LYNDSAY FAYE –Raven

You like Jazz? Join us as noted jazz critic Paul de Barros brings to life Seattle’s historic jazz scene! Drawing on oral histories and interviews with more than eighty musicians, de Barros reconstructs a world of nightclubs, speakeasies, and jam sessions. Fully updated throughout, this new edition features information that has come to light since the first edition was published in 1993, as well newly discovered archival photographs, maps of key sites, and an expanded discography. Paul de Barros has written for DownBeat and The Seattle Times since 1982. In 2025 he received the Lifetime Achievement in Jazz Journalism award.

Thursday, October 22, 7pm THE CHUCKANUT RADIO HOUR featuring PAM HOUSTON

The Roots of Jazz in Seattle

in conversation with

Book Signing

Main Floor, Village Books in Fairhaven

Saturday, Oct. 17, 11am-1pm MARY LOU SANELLI –An Island Called Bainbridge: People, Places, Conversations

Come meet author Mary Lou Sanelli and pick up a signed copy of her new book, An Island Called Bainbridge! In this collection of writings, Sanelli introduces readers to Bainbridge Island, its people, places, and conversations between “this island of us,” capturing how islands are their own versions of time, routines, genuine wisdoms, petty grievances, and selfless generosities; surrounded by water—in this case, a sound, a bay, a passage, and a pass. Mary Lou Sanelli is the author of 14 previous titles of including Every Little Thing, Among Friends, and In So Many Words.

A Free Event for Kids!

Saturday, October 17, 3pm ALLISON SCHOENING RATAEZYK –Perseverant Piper

Join us for local author Allison Schoening Rataezyk as she shows off her charming tale of adventure in the Pacific Northwest, Perseverant Piper! In this rhyming Pacific Northwest adventure, Piper encounters a challenge that threatens to keep her from doing what she loves most. With perseverance, courage, and a little help from nature, she learns that obstacles can become opportunities for growth.

Join Piper as she trades her unlucky pencil for muddy hiking boots and sets off on an adventure through Olympic National Park.

Weekly Storytimes

&

In Fairhaven Tuesdays, 11am In Lynden - Saturdays, 11am 76 Fall 2026

A gothic homage to the life and works of Edgar Allen Poe arrives in stunning form in bestselling author Lyndsay Faye's newest novel, Raven. An orphaned young woman in antebellum Maryland is pulled into a maelstrom of passion, pain, and occult power. Join us for this atmospheric and aching tale of loss, freedom, death, and resurrection by the celebrated author of Jane Steele and Dust and Shadow.

Becky Mandelbaum Venue: Details coming soon!

–Animals Taught Me Everything

What can animals teach us about being human? Join Pam Houston as she discusses her latest book with author Becky Mandelbaum at this live taping of the Chuckanut Radio Hour! From Icelandic mares and Irish wolfhounds to elephants, leopards, hyena bitches, and a desert-adapted lioness named Charlie, Houston has learned life’s most important lessons from animals: how to play, how to rest. how to love. how to die. With playful sincerity, Houston finds power and promise in the teachings of our fellow creatures and reminds us that the animals are here for us, every day and everywhere.

Friday, October 23, 6pm CAROLYN MCCONNELL –Motherhood Discounted: Care Work in America Before and After Roe

For readers trying to make sense of America’s political turmoil and eroding reproductive rights, an incisive examination, enhanced with personal stories, of how care work has been extracted and compelled throughout American history. In Motherhood Discounted, McConnell turns a searching eye on autonomy, asking what it is and what it is for. Tracing this myth’s development through American history, she frames each episode with personal stories and incisive analysis.

Unless otherwise noted, these events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven - 1200 11th St., Bellingham Thank you for your continued support of Village Books and our Literature Live Events.

Building Community One Book at a Time

A Free Event for All Ages!

Literature

A Nature of Writing Speaker Series Event presented in partnership with North Cascades Institute

LIVE!

Saturday, October 24, 3pm Book JULIA KUO Launch!

–Mountainous

Join us as we host award-winning author-illustrator Julia Kuo as she shares her new children’s book Mountainous—a wondrous exploration into mountains. With simple lyrical text and informative sidebars, this stunning picture book is perfect for introducing readers of all ages to the mysteries of mighty mountains and the wonders of our natural world. This extra special event will include fun activities for everyone!

Saturday, October 24, 6pm CAROLYN ILLMAN –The Self-Aware Interview: Essentials for Every Enneagram Type

Struggling to stick the interview? Trying to find an edge in today's competitive job market? Then come join us in welcoming author Carolyn Illman! In her new book, The Self-Aware Interview, Illman combines practical interview strategies with the insights of the Enneagram to help candidates and hiring managers approach interviews with greater clarity and self-awareness. By understanding how personality shapes communication and decision-making, readers can move beyond rehearsed answers toward more meaningful and effective conversations.

A Nature of Writing Series Event

Sunday, October 25, 6pm GAVIN VAN HORN –Sensoria: Attending to the

Wonder and Vitality of Nature

Author Gavin Van Horn offers us fascinating insight into the sensory experiences of nature in his new book, Sensoria. From the mating calls of chorus frogs to insect olfaction to elephant funerary rites to the memory-rich tastes of place, Sensoria offers an immersion in the sensual experiences of seeing, hearing, touching, tasting, and smelling—and their interactions, combinations, and more-than-human manifestations.

A Nature of Writing Series Event

Tuesday, October 27, 6pm EMILY POOLE –Cascade of Life:

An Artist’s Seasonal Guide to the Wild Northwest

Join author Emily Poole on an illustrated journey through the Pacific Northwest in her new book, Cascade of Life. Blending stunningly vivid paintings with personal anecdotes and field-based insights, each chapter encourages the reader’s curiosity and offers accessible, hands-on activities to deepen their connection with nature.

Wednesday, October 28, 6pm ROBERT LASHLEY –Can't Find My Way Home: Twenty Years of Poems: 2005 – 2025

Spanning two decades, Can’t Find My Way Home is Robert Lashley’s searing collection of selected poems, a chronicle of Black life shaped by memory, migration, and resistance. These poems move through city blocks, bus stops, churches, and dreamscapes, documenting everyday survival amid systemic violence and spiritual exhaustion.

FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

November Wednesday, November 4, 6pm DAVID NEIWERT –Strawberry Days: The Rise and Fall of a Japanese-American Community

Strawberry Days tells the vivid and moving tale of the creation and destruction of a Japanese immigrant community. Award-winning journalist David Neiwert combines compelling story-telling with first-hand interviews and newly uncovered documents to weave together the history of this community and the racist schemes that prevented the immigrants from reclaiming their land after the war.

A Free Event for Kids!

Saturday, November 7, 3pm with author STEPHANIE PEIRCE and illustrator CHRISTEN MATTIX –The Inventor of Stripes

What happens when you find yourself riding a tiger? In this book, you will find gentle advice to consider if that happens to you. Join us on a journey around the world to explore stripes, have tiger tea, meet a sloth and a kinkajou, dabble in the waves at the beach, and then possibly swing by an ice cream shop for some pineapple sorbet or coconut almond fudge ripple when you get home. A book for all ages! Christen Mattix is a multimedia artist and writer.

Sunday, November 8, 6pm at Sehome High School

DANIEL NAYERI –This is a Door

National Book Award and Newbery Honor winner Daniel Nayeri joins us to discuss his craft and his newest book, This is a Door—a groundbreaking hero's journey. The text on each page snakes, climbs, jumps, and explodes into shapes and forms that unravel the story. This Is a Door is full of fun surprises and poignant musings that flip the classic hero's quest on its head—all in an artistic and inventive package that is a wonder to behold. Tickets available soon!

Tuesday, November 10, 6:30pm DONNA MISCOLTA in conversation with Jane Wong

–Ofelia and Norma

In community college, large-bodied twin sisters Ofelia and Norma struggle for a sense of self. When Ofelia sheds pounds from long, solo walks, Norma senses their twinness slipping away. She slips away to a transfer college out of town, leaving Ofelia for the first time, and each sister confronts alone life as a large person in an anti-large-person world.

Keep turning for more events

Fall 2026

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Literature

Wednesday, November 11, 6pm LAURA KALPAKIAN –Undesirable: The Vietnam War

LIVE!

and a Father’s Battle for Justice Join us for a special Veteran’s Day event with bestselling award-winning local author Laura Kalpakian. She will share her latest—the powerful true story of a parent’s unflagging battle on behalf of a beloved son struggling with PTSD, mental illness, and addiction and a family who bore the burdens of war for decades.

Thursday, November 12, 6pm POLLY DUGAN

in conversation with Megan Williams

–The House of Cavanaugh

Familial secrets and buried truths! Join Polly Dugan and Megan Williams to discuss Dugan's new novel where long-hidden secrets come to light.

Revisiting a family from Dugan's story collection, So Much a Part of You, The House of Cavanaugh explores the flaws of even the most seemingly stable and unblemished families, and how the ripple effects of a long-buried secret have the power to strengthen or destroy the closest ties between family and friends.

Saturday, November 14, 3pm MARI MATTHIAS –Cleah’s Bequest

A mother's outrageous final wish reunites three estranged siblings for a year of chaos, secrets, and dark comedy in Cleah's Bequest! Cleah's Bequest has a Knives Out feel in the forced interaction and finger-pointing, the cringy humor of Portlandia, and the slide into crazy of Where' d You Go Bernadette.

A Free Event for Kids!

Sunday, November 15, 3pm author CYNTHIA SINK and illustrator MEGAN VELTHUIZEN –Mrs. Diggley and her Red Clay Pots

Experience a charming, heartwarming tale brought to life with enchanting illustrations! Mr. and Mrs. Diggley have to move again. What should they bring? What should they give away? What will the changes be like? Follow Mr. and Mrs. D. as they move multiple times. They find that natural beauty comes in many forms and that they can continue comforting habits in each new place. Finally, they discover their most valuable treasure.

Sunday, November 15, 6pm J.A. JANCE –The Taken Ones:

A J.P. Beaumont Novel

Join us for New York Times bestselling author J.A. Jance for another installation to her beloved J.P. Beaumont series! In this twisty, fast-paced mystery spanning from Alaska to Washington, young girls are going missing, and private investigator J. P. Beaumont is the only one who can find them. Can they put a stop to the kidnappings–and bring the girls home—before it's too late?

Unless otherwise noted, events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven 78 Fall 2026

Mark Your Calendars Sunday, November 15 Village Books and Paper Dreams Annual Pre-Holiday OPEN HOUSE

The tradition continues! Get a jump start on your holiday shopping during this day of fun and festivities.

Friday, November 20, 7pm Location: TBA

The Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring LUCY TAN –Tiger’s Mouth

Join us for the live taping of our always entertaining radio variety show featuring the acclaimed author of What We Were Promised as she introduces her latest, Tiger's Mouth—a sweeping novel of privilege, identity, and ambition. Tickets available now.

Saturday, November 21, 6pm PRISCILLA LONG –On Spaces and Colors –The Writer's Portable Mentor:

A Guide to Art, Craft, and the Writing Life, Third Edition Join us for author Priscilla Long as she discusses the art and science of craft in her two new books.

Monday, December 7, 6pm SARAH HAWLEY –Warrior of the Shards

Come celebrate the launch of the stunning conclusion to Sarah Hawley’s bestselling series, The Shards of Magic! Pre-orders in clude exclusive artwork so be sure to buy the book when registering for the event.

See the Events Calendars at

villagebooks.com for More!

You'll find additional events, details, registration information, and the featured titles—available to order!

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Thanks for attending the readings and for purchasing the featured titles!

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