Chuckanut Reader The
A Village Books Publication • Winter 2026 A Village Books Publication • Spring 2026
FREE!
A Magazine for the Northwest’s Most Avid Readers
• take
• enjoy
20 Years of the
Chuckanut Radio Hour Pages 5-7
New Year's
20% OFF
Storewide
SALE
Dec. 31 & Jan. 1
Giving
Ideas
For Everyone on Your List
Volume 33, Issue 4
2
Winter 2026-2027
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
Dear Reader, We've been advocating for many years for people to shop local. In the past year, we've really had an opportunity to reflect on the wide-ranging and closeto-home impact that truly has. When folks shop with locally-owned businesses, we're able to create more local Village Books Owners Kelly Evert, Sarah Hutton, jobs, contribute more to the city, county, and state tax and Paul Hanson. bases, and provide a greener option for your purchasing needs. It means we are able to donate more to local non-profits, partner with more local organizations, sponsor more events, and create physical spaces that generations have enjoyed. Keeping your dollars in your community—this holiday season and every season—is a win across the board. As ever, Dear Reader, we're thankful to share this community with you.
– Sarah, Kelly, Paul, and the Entire Village Books and Paper Dreams Family
In This Issue...
The Chuckanut Reader Winter 2026-2027
Publisher: Village Books and Paper Dreams Production & Design: Kelly Carbert Contributors: Kiana Allen, Brent Baitx, Rae Baitx, Kendra Calitri, Kelly Carbert, Caitriona Cassel, Erin Chervenock, Adelaide Conover, Erica Davis, Gaye Davis, Sydney Durst, Bryan Elwood, Kelly Evert, Gabby Gibson, Paul Hanson, Ashley Hill-Megginson, Chloe Hovind, Sarah Hutton, Ethan Jackson, Kari Jorgensen, Kat Kayser, Sean Kearney, Darren Kovalchik, Troy Luginbill, Laney Marquez, Devin McManus, Laura Picco, Chloe Quan, Lillian Roberts, Chuck Robinson, Damon Roman, Carolina Santana, Sasha Savoian, Sam Brown-Shaklee, Kelly Sims, Kellen Smith, Allison Stalnaker, Braden Timss, Kevin Triana, Courtney Velthuizen, Bailey Whyte, Aina Zabinski, Young Adult Review Committee Cover Art: Have fun in the kitchen— we've got you covered!
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
Dear Reader 3 Holiday Sales—Don't Miss Out! 4 The Chuckanut Radio Hour—20 Years and Upcoming Shows 5-7 Winter Festivities in Fairhaven 8-9 Booked at The Baker Upcoming Events at MBT 10 Village Books Giving Tree 11 Fiction–New Releases and Staff Recommendations 13-16 WhatcomREADS 2027 17 Mystery, Suspense, Horror, Sci-Fi & Fantasy 18-23 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 Current Events 39 Real People, Real Stories, History, Memoirs, and Bios 41-45 Top Selling Local Authors 47 Get Out There—Travel and Guides 48 Chuckanut Editions—Hidden Peaks of the North Cascades 49 Science & Nature—Great Reads 50-51 Games, Psychology, Life! 52-53 The 2027 Children's Literature Conference 54 Kids and Young Adult Reads, Events, and Opportunities 55-65 There's SO Much To Do at Village Books 67 Join a Book Group! 68-69 Village Books Literature Live Author Events & More 71-78
Building Community One Book at a Time
Thank You for Supporting This Locally Owned Bookstore Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
3
Don't Miss Our Annual
New Year's SALE 20% OFF Storewide Village Books and Paper Dreams - Fairhaven & Lynden New Year's Eve - Thursday, December 31 AND New Year's Day - Friday, January 1
Two Days Only! Watch for special holiday hours. There are a few sale restrictions. Ask a bookseller for details!
Shopping Local Helps Us Support Our Community
Thank You!
Shopping Online? Shop Local! Village Books and Paper Dreams
Cyber Mondays
SALE
20% OFF
November 23 & November 30 com. For more information about the Fairhaven Holiday Festival, visit fairhaven.
You can shop from the comfort of your home while supporting local! Check out our website and shop online at villagebooks.com on TWO Mondays, November 23 AND November 30, to save 20% on your items. On sale days, look for the discount code on the home page of our website to save. Have your purchases shipped or pick up at either store. Happy shopping! Note: this is an online sale only. Orders will be processed in the order they are received. Due to expected high volume, order fulfillment may be slightly delayed.
villagebooks.com 4
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
The Chuckanut Radio Hour 20th Anniversary
The Chuckanut Radio Hour is turning 20! For those who may not know, The Chuckanut Radio Hour is a radio variety show that Village Books started producing in January 2007. Recorded in front of a live audience, each episode includes humorous skits, poetry, live local music, and featured authors. Join us as we take a look back at how this fun show started and how it's evolved.
The origins, as recalled by Chuck Robinson, founder and original producer of the Chuckanut Radio Hour: "Phil Printz contacted me in November 2006 suggesting we do a book program on KMRE at the American Museum of Radio and Electricity (now known to us all as the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention). A friend in Oxford, Mississippi, had sent me recordings of the Thacker Mountain Radio Hour that was founded by the owner of Square Books in 1997. We agreed to talk again in the spring about creating a program like that. Then I learned that Erik Larson was booked for an event in January for Thunderstruck, a true crime mystery centrally featuring the newly invented Marconi Wireless Telegraph. The radio museum had artifacts from Marconi’s lab, so I called Erik, told him about our radio hour idea, asking if he would help us launch the program. He generously agreed. When Erik arrived in a snow storm on January 10, 2007, there were more than 40 intrepid souls in seats. Rich Donnelly began the show with, "Ladies & gentlemen, boys and girls, with music that will satisfy, poets and authors who will edify, coming to you from the studios of the American Museum of Radio and Electricity in beautiful downtown Bellingham, the City of Subdued Excitement, and brought to you by Village Books, it's time for the … " Then the Honeybees, in their '40s musical style, finished by harmoniously singing “the Chuckanuuuuut Radio Hour.” We had no idea that the program would exist 20 years later and is now approaching 200 episodes. The show has hosted local, regional, and nationally known authors. Among the most famous have been Jodi Picoult, Sherman Alexie, Tom Robbins, Garth Stein, Laura Lippman, Cheryl Strayed, Alexander McCall Smith, Simon Winchester, Elizabeth George, Jonathan Evison, and Garrison Keillor, whose Prairie Home Companion, along with the Thacker Mountain Radio Hour, was one of the inspirations for the program’s format."
Continued by Paul Hanson, current producer: "I started working for the show in 2011, selling books and merchandise at the door, ofttimes being mistaken for the guest author since I just happened to be standing behind the books. Over the years, they wove me into the workings as one of the writers then as the script coordinator. Chuck and Dee Robinson hosted the show with their signature wit and wisdom until March 2018 when they handed the reins over to Kelly Evert and me. Since then, the talented cast and crew, who have carried the show over these many years, have taken us under Continued on page 6 FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
5
The Chuckanut Radio Hour
Continued from page 5
Celebrating 20 Years
their wings. We may be the hosts, but they make the show fly. Thank you to all those who have been a part of the show over the years, most especially those core members who came back to the show after its brief break in 2020 because of you-know-what... Announcer Rich Donnelly, Radio Players Robert Muzzy, Les Campbell, and Tonja Myers, and Sound Engineer, Phil Heaven. Often after a show, authors and audiences tell us how much fun they've had and, if it's their first time, they seem surprised at how good and how polished it is. Chuck often likes to joke that they come expecting a 4th grade production and are happy to find that it's a 7th grade production. Joking aside, I think Chuck and Dee created something magical for our community and for touring authors that's like nothing else they do. And Kelly and I are proud have helped carry on what's sometimes called, 'Bellingham's Best Kept Secret.'"
Live Literature Live Local Literature Music Local & Music A Little & Humor A Little Humor Village Books & Paper Dreams
You can listen to previously recorded programs: • Sundays at 7pm on Community Powered KMRE 88.3FM • Or anywhere you listen to podcasts! See the full schedule of upcoming shows at villagebooks.com
Thank You for Supporting Local Saturday, November 28
Small Business Saturday and Indies First, celebrated on November 28, 2026, is a day dedicated to reminding people to think local when shopping for the holidays. If you're taking the time to read the words in this publication, you already understand the importance of supporting locally-owned businesses and we appreciate you! YOU are an independent bookstore shopper. You already understand that you vote with your dollars every day by deciding to shop locally. We understand that you have choices and want to say THANK YOU for choosing us.
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. 6
Winter 2026-2027
4th Friday Fairhaven
ART WALKS
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, 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. Seating is limited so get your tickets today—read more at villagebooks.com
Lucy Tan Tiger's Mouth
Friday, November 20, 7pm Bellingham Cruise Terminal, Dome Room
Hear all about the sweeping new novel of privilege, identity, and ambition as we welcome the acclaimed author of What We Were Promised. She will be joined in conversation with Kiik Araki-Kawaguchi.
Thursday, January 28, 7pm
$10
20th Anniversary Show
Entrance Fee $5 can be used towards the purchase of the featured book or other merchandise offered at that show! Go to villagebooks.com!
with Julie Trimingham and Sarah Hawley Help us celebrate 20 years of the Chuckanut Radio Hour as we welcome TWO accomplished local authors to this very special event. Don't miss out! Chuckanut Bay Distillery, Bellingham ham
David Guterson Evelyn in Transit
Thursday, February 25, 7pm Chuckanut Bay Distillery, Bellingham ham
From the award-winning author of Snow Falling on Cedars, a crystalline new novel on the strange and unpredictable journey of living an authentic life—now in paperback!
Leif Enger
Caskey Russell
March 11, 7pm
with Garth Stein
Bellingham Cruise Terminal
I Cheerfully Refuse WhatcomREADS 2027 Author
April 7, 7pm
Venue TBA
Mark your calendars and save the date— you don't want to miss this show!
Thanks to our regular sponsors
Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
7
Join Us! Village Books & Paper Dreams
Fairhaven & Lynden
Sunday, November 15 Get a Jump on Your Holiday Shopping You Are Invited to join us for day of Shopping and Fun! Grab your holiday shopping list and head to Village Books and Paper Dreams in both Fairhaven and Lynden for our annual Holiday Open House! Visit different stations throughout the store for an opportunity to spin the wheel for prizes and discounts. Festivities: 10am-5pm in Fairhaven & Lynden Throughout the day, we'll have "Book Walks" where you'll have the chance to win even MORE prizes! Join us and get a jump on your holiday shopping.
BONUS! We're hosting bestselling mystery writer J.A. Jance at 6pm that day in our Fairhaven store. See page 72 for more information and save your seat at villagebooks.com. We'll see you there!
STAFF
S A E ID G IN IV G Let the staff of Paper Dreams Village Books and st the right gift! help you pick out ju The Secret Garden
by Frances Hodgson Burnett, illustrated by Minalima with interactive elements available now, hardcover, HarperCollins
"The Secret Garden is a classic story of a little girl, Mary, that lives in England, and lo and behold she finds a secret garden. This edition is so lovely. It has illustrations throughout and wonderful features like a map of the garden, and a dial showing how plants grow throughout the season and even a paper doll of Mary. This makes a perfect gift that will for sure become an heirloom." –Kelly E.
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Winter 2026-2027
A Great Gift Naked Bee Lotion When your loved one says, "Hey, you smell great!" you know you've hit on a great scent! I particularly love the Orange Blossom Honey but Citron is also nice—plus they partner with Operation Pollination! –Sarah
Look for our giving recommendations sprinkled throughout this edition of the Reader. Building Community One Book at a Time
FAIRHAVEN
Winterfest November 28 - December 19, 2026
The annual Historic Fairhaven Winterfest begins the weekend after Thanksgiving with activities continuing through the holiday season. There is always something magical happening.
Art by Scott Ward
Plans for additional activities are being finalized so visit fairhavenassociation.org for updates so you don't miss out! Saturday, November 28 / Shop Small Saturday
Winterfest Kick-Off Celebration—Let the Magic Begin! Celebrate the start of Winterfest in Historic Fairhaven Village! Shop Small Business Saturday and discover unique gifts and local treasures, then join us at 4pm at the Fairhaven Village Green for holiday cookies, festive music from Bellingham High School’s Showstoppers and other talented a cappella groups, followed by an exciting performance by the Pyro Dancers after dark. Bring your friends and family for an evening of holiday cheer in Fairhaven! Saturday, December 5
Fairhaven Firelight Stroll, Bonfire, Lighted Boats The Fairhaven Firelight Stroll is a favorite holiday tradition. Start at 8th & Harris between 5pm8pm and enjoy a half mile stroll through a wooded path lined with luminaria. At the end, you can join the all-ages Winterfest Bonfire at Stones Throw Brewery (4pm-9pm). Other holiday festivities including the Bellingham Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade on Bellingham Bay that evening plus the always fun Holiday Port Festival at the Cruise Terminal from 11am-5pm. Saturday, December 12, 3pm-6pm
Sip and Stroll
Shake off holiday stress and make a date with Fairhaven! Sip wine and festive adult beverages at your favorite local shops. General admission $40 with a $25 VIP upgrade available. Watch fairhavenassociation.org for tickets! Don't miss out.
Saturdays, December 5, 12, and 19, 12pm-3pm at Village Books
Visits With Santa!
Saturdays welcome gool 'ol Kris Kringle to Fairhaven! Stop by Village Books for a meet-and-greet and photo opportunities. Check individual Fairhaven business websites and social media to find additional holiday entertainment opportunities!
November 28 through December 19
Letters to Santa
Children can leave letters for Santa in the classic Victorian mailbox located at the gazebo on 10th and Harris.
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
fairhavenassociation.org Winter 2026-2027
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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.
Saturday, February 20, 7:30pm W. Kamau Bell returns to the stand-up stage, full of questions, thoughts, and a heavy dollop of silliness in these hectic times. He’s pretty sure the only way we make it through all of this is if we face it together. So Bell wants to know: Who’s With Me? Bell is a stand-up comedian, bestselling author, and filmmaker. He was the host and executive producer of the five-time Emmy Award-winning series United Shades of America. His latest comedy special, Private School Negro, is available on Netflix. Join us in welcoming him to Bellingham!
at Mount Baker Theatre, Downtown, Bellingham, WA
Saturday, May 15, 7:30pm David Sedaris is one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers. A master of satire and one of today’s most observant writers, he is beloved for his personal essays and short stories and is the author of too many New York Times bestsellers to list here! Don't miss out.
Tickets are selling FAST!
Tickets available now at
mountbakertheatre.com Mount Baker Theatre - Celebrating 100 Years! 10 Winter 2026-2027
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
Village Books and Paper Dreams Annual
Giving Tree
Books for Local Kids and Families in Need For over two decades Village Books has partnered with local non-profits that provide services for at-risk populations through our Giving Tree and Round It Up donation programs. During the Holiday season, we reach out to our customers to hand pick books that go directly to our community. The books that you purchase for the Giving Tree program are offered at a 20% discount! These books are then separated based on the needs of the organizations and delivered in the few weeks before Christmas. In 2025 alone, our wonderful customers allowed us to provide over 1,700 books to to local children in need. Thanks for your participation!
Your November & December Round It Up donations will go to our Giving Tree Program - Thank You! Round your purchases up to the nearest dollar and make a difference!
Book Orders Though we stock thousands and thousands of titles, we cannot carry everything on our shelves. Our friendly, knowledgeable booksellers are happy to order any available book for you. • 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
Thank You for Shopping Local
More
Great Reads Stop by and pick up a copy of the 2026 PNBA
Holiday Catalog for more fantastic giving suggestions!
Give Books The 2026 Holiday Season’s Best of the Independ
ent Northwest
Your Local Indie Bookstore: A Window Into Any World You Choose
The Best of the Independent Northwest Winter 2026-2027
11
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.
LONGING IN FEB FEB 1122 SMITTEN NOV SMITTEN EXILE
Dawn DawnPosey Poseyviolin violin Angel Stanislav Wang, piano Pride Pride&&Prejudice. Prejudice. Mendelssohn Mendelssohn&&Farrenc. Farrenc. Love Love&&Romance. Romance.
FEB 7 JAN JAN 21 21
BREAKING BREAKING DAWN DAWN
BSO BOOK CLUB Gil Shaham, violin BSO BOOK CLUB
B S O C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 Y E A R S B S O C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 Y E A R S
Paper-
A Holiday Tradition
a lot of FLOWERS Garden & Gifts & Floral
Unique Gifts, Wreaths & Greens, Stocking Stuffers & More!
Adele Anthony, violin @ @Village VillageBooks Books
Join us at Village Books in Fairhaven for Join us at Village Books in Fairhaven for "Symphony of Secrets" by Brendan Slocumb. "Symphony of Secrets" by Brendan Slocumb.
JAN JAN 31 31
SALON SALONBRAVISSIMO! BRAVISSIMO! @ Amendment 21 @ Amendment 21
Visit Us
For tickets, please visit our website or call 360.734.6080 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 B E L L I N G H A M S Y M P H O N Y. O R G
360.647.0728 • alotofflowersfairhaven.com
Connecting Music and Literature!
Check out the Village Books and Bellingham Symphony Orchestra Book Group. See page 68 and villagebooks.com for upcoming meetings, reads, and their corresponding concerts.
1011 Harris Ave in Historic Fairhaven
Save The Date!
Saturday, February 13, 2027
Fairhaven Chocolate Walk
Gather and enjoy delicious chocolates at a variety of Fairhaven locations during the annual Fairhaven Chocoate Walk! It's a great date activity or a fun time with friends. Purchase the VIP package for an extra special experience. Watch fairhavenassociation.org for updates and registration information—coming soon! 12
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
New Fiction My Street: A Christmas Story by Therese Bohman, translated by Marlaine Delargy available now, hardcover, Other Press
Therese has just left her childhood home to begin a new life at Stockholm University. Everything changes when she meets Andreas. He opens the door to another Stockholm, a world of literary fanzines, smoke-filled cafés, and late nights in an apartment on Kammakar Street. In the quiet, understated mystery between the city’s crowded throughfares and Kammakar Street’s desolation, a friendship begins to take shape, one that will come to define her life in many ways.
Tiger's Mouth by Lucy Tan
available in November, hardcover, Random House
Author (and bookseller!), Lucy Tan has crafted an insightful and relevant character study of two young men from different backgrounds and their summer of friendship and rivalry inside a tech giant. Tiger's Mouth does what novels are meant to do—allow us to walk a mile in someone else's shoes and, in doing so, expand our empathy and teach us about ourselves. –Paul
Friday, November 20, 7pm at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal
Paradox Inc. by Forrest Brazeal
available in January, hardcover, Ballantine Books
As someone who has read a lot of time travel novels, this one stands out as one of the most unique. It is both an entertaining parody of Silicon Valley and a frighteningly accurate portrayal of what a bunch of tech bros might do if they had access to time travel. The different interwoven stories were masterfully written, and the plot oh-so cleverly constructed. –Caitriona
Mystery Play
by Elizabeth Kostova available now, hardcover, Ballantine Books
The youngest son in a family of historians who has been hunted by dark forces associated with Dracula finds himself in peril at the hands of a new threat-a thrilling novel from the bestselling author of The Historian. "Kostova excels at the kind of quirky details that bring her characters to vivid life." –The Seattle Times.
The Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring LUCY TAN
in conversation with Kiik Araki Kawaguchi Tickets available at villagebooks.com
In the Round
by Rebecca Handler available in November, hardcover, McSweeney’s Publishing
Have you ever been dead certain that you’re being observed, that maybe your very existence is predicated on how others see you? A few minutes after she’s become convinced she’s the victim of a home invasion, In the Round’s brilliant and intimate narrator plunges us into a feminist Kafkaesque literary mystery that unfolds over the course of one weird—and dare we say, dramatic—night in San Francisco.
A Great Gift The Penelopiad (20th Anniversary Edition):
by Margaret Atwood
The Kamogawa Food Detectives: A Serving of Hope by Hisashi Kashiwai
available now, hardcover, G.P. Putnam's Sons
This fourth installment of our favorite Japanese detective agency was everything I desire out of winter, good food, and community! The delicious food descriptions are out of this world and I've found a new dream for culinary exploration. I love the author's passion for local community and how food brings people together, especially with holidays right around the corner. –Courtney
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
available now, hardcover, Canongate Books
“The Penelopiad is a feminist retelling of The Odyssey from the perspective of Penelope. I picked this book up after watching The Odyssey in theaters this summer and wanting more after Anne Hathaway's iconic monologue as Penelope and I'm so glad I did. A perfect holiday gift for those who are interested in the complexities of gender, power, and survival or those looking to get their next Greek Mythology fix!” –Sydney
Winter 2026-2027
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New Fiction Dinner at the Night Library by Hika Harada translated by Philip Gabriel
available in November, paperback, Hanover Square Press
The Night Library on the outskirts of Tokyo isn’t your ordinary library. It’s only open from seven o’clock to midnight. It exclusively stores books by deceased authors, and none of them can be checked out. Otoha Higuchi, the newest employee, has been recruited to work at the library by the mysterious anonymous owner. When strange occurrences start happening around the library that may bring the threat of closure, it forces Otoha and the staff to rethink their entire relationship with work and what they really want in life.
Whale Harbor by Mary Beth Keane
available in November, hardcover, Scribner
Keane perfectly captures the experience of what happens when you leave home and the complicated feelings that come with it. This story follows the Joyce family from a small fishing village in Ireland all the way to Montana and later New York from the perspective of Macdara Joyce—one of eleven boys. The complicated feelings of grief, abandonment, and learning when to let go and when to start anew. I really enjoyed this book and will think of it for years to come! –Sydney
This Vital Absence
Party with Cassowary by Leonardo San Pietro translated by Todd Portnowitz
available in January, hardcover, Knopf
Where is Ezio, if not at Isa's party? Set in a large countryside villa near Turin, a group of friends, with varying levels of intoxication, learn that Ezio may be cursed to die if one of them does not touch the neighboring cassowary by 1am. I first needed to look up a cassowary, and after that, appreciated how well this novel creates the absurdity and menace that is this flightless bird. This is a slim novel, but beyond a page count, I devoured this story quickly, thanks to its fresh and youthful storytelling, jumping narration from friend to friend. We learn insights into each character and their relationship to Ezio, all while moving the story along towards Ezio's fate and 1am. I hope we continue to see translations from this new voice in Italian storytelling. –Erin
The Man Who Read Books by Rachid Benzine, translated by Sam Taylor
available in November, hardcover, Cardinal
A young French photographer travels to Palestine to report on the bombings in Gaza. One morning, during a ceasefire, he roams aimlessly, stumbling across a bookseller sitting on the doorstop of his shop—an old man, surrounded by stacks of books. As the photographer raises his camera, the bookseller calls out to him and asks him to listen to his story, not simply take his picture. The story that unfolds is one that encompasses exile and imprisonment, activism and political disillusionment, the joys of love and art and watching your children grow up and thrive, and the tragedies that tear your loved ones from you. Each event is tied to the book that helped him understand and, in some cases, survive it, from Milan Kundera to Frantz Fanon to Umberto Eco to Ernest Hemingway, among many others.
14 Winter 2026-2027
by Sophia Veltfort
available in November, hardcover, A Strange Object Press
Sylvia is the daughter of two loving mothers, but she has always wanted to know her father. When she moves back to New York City, a dossier arrives from her moms with a new lead. At the same time, Sylvia meets Molly, a woman with her own family mysteries, with whom she makes a deal: they will help each other in the search for each other’s biological families. With propulsive prose and psychological intensity, author Sophia Veltfort probes questions of inheritance and intimacy, the allure of obsession, and misunderstandings that shape our lives.
Theo of Golden Deluxe Edition by Allen Levi
available in November, hardcover, Atria
When Theo visits the local coffeehouse, where pencil portraits of the people of Golden hang on the walls, he begins purchasing them, one at a time, and giving each portrait to the person depicted. In exchange, he asks only for the person's story. This deluxe edition features sprayed edges, foil-stamped cover, illustrated endpapers, a custom-stamped case, and a never-before-seen bonus chapter.
Château Reverie by Natasha Siegel
available now, hardcover, William Morrow & Co.
Both historical fantasy and an enthralling world all its own, this elegant gothic novel is filled with longing and tragedy, but also hope that perseveres against the odds. The twists and turns felt like wandering through the halls ornate and labyrinthine manor (or should I say château?), never quite sure what will be around the next corner. –Caitriona
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
New Fiction A Glacier’s Guide to Dying
The Spirits
by Michelle Porter
by Bonnie Jo Campbell
available in November, hardcover, Algonquin Books
available now, hardcover, W.W. Norton
This is a haunting holiday story! Similar to Dicken's Christmas Carol, Campbell weaves an unforgettable cast of characters together for one Christmas Eve dinner. This made me want to hug all my loved ones and reach out to those I haven't seen in a long time. Sometimes family is all we got, and sometimes it's all we need. –Kiana
A Great Gift Mona's Eyes: The Illustrated Edition by Thomas Schlesser, translated by Hildegarde Serle
available now, hardcover, Europa Editions
"The novel is a favorite of ours and this gorgeously produced edition is a format worthy of Scheller’s story about a young girl threatened with blindness and her grandfather who is determined to show her all that is beautiful in the world before she loses her sight." –Paul
Bad Words
by Rioghnach Robinson available now, hardcover, St. Martin's Press
Bad Words follows a writer named Parker who published his debut novel, only to receive a scathing review from Salina, a book critic. Four years went by, and he released another book, only to receive another bad review from her, which ignited a viral feud. This story had so much great commentary about the publishing industry, and the vulnerability that comes with creating art. Parker and Salina were both wonderfully complex characters, and I really enjoyed the slow burn romance between them! –Gabby
Sunlight Finds You
The Brightness
by Laura Moriarty
by Chad Harbach
available now, hardcover, Riverhead Books
available now, hardcover, Little, Brown
At 27, Pella’s life looks settled: she’s a recent college grad, engaged to her longtime boyfriend, and helping her friend Owen pull off his own destination wedding. But over that wild wedding weekend, Pella’s past and present collide spectacularly, blowing up her plans and sending her spiraling toward an unplanned future in New York City. Meanwhile, back at Westish College, Pella’s best friend Irma’s involvement with a politically charged prank threatens to derail her brilliant future. Irma and Pella both navigate the heights and depths of passion and ambition, and the incalculable wages of love and loss.
Solace House
Robbie has spent most of life wondering about his real father, Mike, who long since left their family. Robbie can't forget how much he felt connected to him from his few visits. But now, as he rescues his mother from encroaching wildfires, he's determined to also find his father. Robbie takes off to find answers, and when his uncle confesses that he last dropped Mike off at a glacier, he and his uncle head climb up the mountain of ice to see if Mike might still be there, and whether he's still alive.
A forbidden love blows open the world of a teenage girl, altering the trajectory of her life–from the author of the New York Times bestseller The Chaperone. "I can't remember the last time I rooted for a character the way I did for Nora in Sunlight Finds You. In an era of rampant sexism, war, and lies, she learns to listen for her own steady voice and follow it. Melodic and daring, this isn't just a good book—it's a cancelyour-plans, hold-your-breath, call-your-best-friend kind of book. An absolutely unmissable triumph." —Amy Jo Burns, author of Mercury
Visit us 24/7 at villagebooks.com
by Will Maclean
available now, hardcover, Grove Press
In the summer of 1993, Alex joins a team of students in clearing out Solace House, a Victorian mansion that is now abandoned. The man who used to live there alone believed there was another realm lying parallel to ours, and they find coded instructions on how to reach it. This book had so many eerie scenes and moments of existential dread. If you like dark academia, rich atmosphere, and psychological horror, this is the book for you! Perfect for fans of House of Leaves! –Gabby
Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
15
Music Against the Night
Bones of Jade, Flesh Like Ice
available now, hardcover, Farrar, Straus and Giroux
available in November, hardcover, Viking
Pulitzer Prize-winning Yiyun Li has written a brilliant story about the real pianists John Field and Adelaide Percheron— both music prodigies that unfortunately did not have long careers or make the history books. We follow them as they both explore the demands, discipline, jealousies, personal sacrifices, and disappointments of being young musicians while traveling from Dublin to London, to Pondicherry, India, and ultimately to Russia. Written with historical accuracy, this beautiful novel brings back their story—one that had been lost to the past. –Kelly E.
This book reads like a fairy tale—gorgeous and brutal at the same time. Filled with Taiwanese folklore, the lengths we go for love, and the cost of power, this is a compulsively readable story and I found it hard to put down. For all of its magic and court treachery, this is a tale that is ultimately deeply human. –Caitriona
by Yiyun Li
by Gracie Marsden
Fiction
Paperback Fiction
A Great Gift
Jane Austen’s The Watsons
Time of the Child
available in November, paperback, Vintage
available now, paperback, Bloomsbury USA
Jane Austen never completed The Watsons— and therefore, her devoted fans have never discovered the answer to the heroine’s fate— until now! Bestselling author Claudia Gray expands this story into a vivid tale of love, sorrow, social class, and, as in any Austen novel, the ways these all become intertwined for a young woman in Regency-era England.
"For any reader on your holiday gift list who enjoys lingering with gorgeous writing, The Time of the Child would be a rewarding gift. This beautifully composed story invites us into the irrepressible compassion of the human spirit. Step into the small Irish town of Faha as it prepares for Christmas in 1962 and let your heart be broken open by the way a foundling child transforms lives in the community." –Bryan
as continued by Claudia Gray
Haunt Sweet Home
by Niall Williams
by Sarah Pinsker
available now, paperback, Tordotcom
On the set of a kitschy reality TV show, staged scares transform into unnerving reality in this spooky ghost story from the multiple Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author. Aimless and looking for direction, Mara lands a job as a production assistant on her cousin’s ghost hunting, home makeover reality TV show Haunt Sweet Home. As she hides fog machines in the woods and improvises phony scares to spook new homeowners, a series of unnerving incidents force Mara to confront the person she’s really been deceiving all along—herself. Eerie and surprisingly tender, Haunt Sweet Home is a supernatural tale about growing up and finding your own path.
Beyond the Bath of Stars by Schneider K. Rancy
available in November, paperback, Amistad
Eurick Ulysse is irrevocably trapped: by poverty, by class, and by his immigrant parents’ expectations. Disillusioned, he resolves to piss his life away getting drunk with his friends on the beach. But the night Eurick drags a delirious and half-drowned Ana María Cortez out of the sea, everything changes. A dazzling literary debut that reimagines The Odyssey and asks what power do we have to control our own fate when destiny feels pre-determined and the systems of the world are broken?
16
Winter 2026-2027
Hold Still
by Ben Ehrenreich available now, paperback, City Lights
In the months after his mother Barbara's death, Ben Ehrenreich set himself the task of writing a story every day. Leaving open the question of what a "story" might be, he wrote daily entries for three or four months as a way to grapple with his grief and to try to understand this new phase of life. This deeply moving collection of those daily journeys into storytelling—a finely crafted combination of fiction, memoir, and poetic prose—is both profound and satisfyingly whimsical.
Building Community One Book at a Time
Join Whatcom County’s Largest Book Group!
2027
I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger
Whatcom READS is a countywide program that 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 visits by the author in March 2027.
• Thursday, March 11, 11am-12:30pm Book Discussion with Leif Enger Blaine Boating Center
• Thursday, March 11, 7pm The Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring Leif Enger Bellingham Cruise Terminal
• Friday, March 12, 7pm An Evening with Leif Enger Mount Baker Theatre
Whatcom READS is presented by the public and academic libraries in Bellingham and Whatcom County. Village Books is proud to be Whatcom READS’ community partner.
ART CHALLENGE and Exhibit
The Art Challenge offers artists of all ages and experience levels an opportunity to explore themes related to this year’s Whatcom Allied Arts Gallery, 1213 Cornwall Avenue, READS title and to present their work for public display. Bellingham, WA Deadline is March 2. See alliedarts.org for submission details.
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!
Local writers of all ages explored the theme Light in the Dark as inspired by the 2027 read I Cheerfully Refuse, then submitted their original poetry, fiction, or non-fiction writing. Selected pieces are included in the 2027 Whatcom WRITES anthology. Join us at a reading!
Light in the Dark
Pre-registration is required to attend these events.
Free to attend. Register to save your seat.
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
• February 21, 2pm at Village Books in Fairhaven • February 28, 2pm at Village Books in Lynden and • March 6, 2pm at Allied Arts, Bellingham Winter 2026-2027
17
Sarah J. Maas
A Court of Forgotten Melody MIDNIGHT
RELEASE PARTY Monday, January 11, 10pm-12am We'll party up until the release at midnight January 12, 2027
Don your regal garb and join us for a Masquerade Ball in celebration of the release of A Court of Forgotten Melody! The magic continues and the stakes have never been higher in the stunning 7th book in the #1 bestselling A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series by the international bestselling author Sarah J. Maas. Attendees will enjoy themed games, prizes, and refreshments! At midnight, after the final waltz, we will gather to distribute books to attendees! Each event ticket includes a copy of the new book. Note—author not attending. Sarah J. Maas is the 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 this highly anticipated addition to ACOTAR's world. We had a blast celebrating the release of book #6–A Court of Splintered Harmony–in October! Check out Village Books social media for photos!
Tickets Available Now - Don't Delay!
The Knave and the Moon by Rachel Gillig
available now, hardcover, Orbit
The second part of Rachel Gillig's Stonewater Kingdom duology is here in all its glory. The Knave and the Moon has even MORE yearning, magic, whimsy and gargoyle missayings. I was clutching my heart, clutching my pearls, and clutching my tissues. You will not regret picking this up and continuing Sybil Delling's wretched journey of freeing herself, freeing her heart, and freeing her kingdom. -Carolina
18 Winter 2026-2027
Murmuration by TJ Klune
available in November, hardcover, Tor Books
Beloved author TJ Klune returns with a timeless speculative romance set in a perfect little town with a big dark secret. Mike works his dream job at the local bookstore in the idyllic town of Amorea, where he leads lively discussions of literature with the local women’s club. At the diner, the walls are plastered with beaming photos of the residents, and all the staff know his order—especially Sean, the waiter who has a special smile just for Mike and, after years of anticipation, is ready to take the next step in their burgeoning romance. Everything is perfect. But the edges of the town are beginning to fray.
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
Book Release Celebration
Monday, December 7, 6pm - at Village Books in Fairhaven The stunning conclusion to Sarah Hawley's darkly enchanting Shards of Magic series will be released in December and Village Books is hosting the release celebration! Pre-order your copy from Village Books to receive a signed copy & exclusive artwork (while supplies last) !
Warrior of the Shards by Sarah Hawley
available in December, hardcover, Ace
This satisfying conclusion to the Shards of Magic series delivers on so many levels! After the cliffhangers of the second book, Hawley returns to tie them up with her signature storytelling and epic worldweaving, digging ever-deeper into Fae Lore and the brutal machinations of Mistel. –Paul
Known for her whimsical love stories with a fantastical twist, Bellingham's own Sarah Hawley is also the bestselling author of the popular Glimmer Falls series. Her events are always popular so register and save your seat today at villagebooks.com! Note - Hawley will also be a guest author at our 20th Anniversary Chuckanut Radio Hour on January 28—see page 7 for details!
Fantasy
Defy the Dusk: Book One of the Sundering Duet
by Danielle L. Jensen
available in November, hardcover, Del Rey
When darkness means certain death and survival depends on reaching the dawn, the woman whose magic broke the world will carve another path: defy the dusk. From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Bridge Kingdom comes the first book in a gritty post-apocalyptic fantasy duology.
❤ Romance Alma Vampires by Elena Armas
Romantasy–a blend of romance and fantasy–is one of the fastest-growing literary and publishing genres today. Check out what all the fuss is about! A Great Gift
❤
available in November, paperback, Berkley Books
Dark Academia meets Twilight in a steamy, exciting paranormal romance. When college student Valle comes into a sudden and immense inheritance, she thinks that the mother she never knew may hold some answers about where she belongs. Little does she know that this is just the beginning. Love, romance, AND an obsessed vampire all in one delish package. I was absolutely enthralled by this book from page one!! –Chloe Q.
Thank You for Shopping Local
Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett
available now, paperback, Random House Worlds
"Looking for a cozy fantasy book this winter? Based on Scandinavian folklore and set in the frigid north, Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries might just be your perfect read! It's full of beautifully written prose and well thought out worldbuilding, with just a touch of romance. Best enjoyed curled up next to a warm fire!" –Devin
Winter 2026-2027
19
Gift Giving Recommendations A Great Gift
Aran Ireland Knitwear
PJ Salvage Pajamas "PJ Salvage pajamas make the perfect holiday gift, combining cozy comfort with fun, festive style. Their incredibly soft fabrics feel like a little everyday luxury, perfect for chilly mornings and relaxing winter nights. It’s a thoughtful gift they’ll enjoy long after the holidays are over!" –Erica
“Aran Ireland Knitwear makes the perfect holiday gift; with intricate details and a variety of colors, they bring warm comfort against the cold seasons. These garments would make a very kind and considerate gift since they are made to last, so they will easily be reached for and cherished for years! My favorite is the chunky knit sweater, but I love all of them!” –Kari
Product style and availability will vary throughout the season
A Great
Everything Kikkerland
Solar Powered RainbowMaker® Corgi Lovers Pizza Cutter Crab Multi-Tool Luchador Bottle Openers
A Great Gift
“Do you need a new gadget for your home? Kikkerland helps independent artists bring their vision to life all while supporting ecological restoration and youth education! From craft kits to dorm room essentials—you'll find the perfect stocking stuffer in a Kikkerland product.“ –Sean
Mini Cross Stitch Embroidery
A Great Gift
Blue Q Coin Purses "Cute and fun coin purses made of 95% recycled materials; these come in a variety of unique styles and make GREAT stocking stuffers! Bonus: they are designed in the USA with a workforce of individuals both with and without disabilities, plus they give back 1% of all product sales to environmental initiatives. A win-win-win!" –Laney Stop by and check out the popular Blue Q totes and pouches as well!
Socks, Socks, and MORE SOCKS! "Make it easy for yourself this holiday season and gift EVERYONE on your list a pair of socks from Paper Dreams. Fun or fancy, sassy or simple, always appreciated and forever functional, good socks will put a smile on the face of even the hardest person to shop for. Don't forget to grab a pair or three for yourself while you're at it—you deserve it!" –Kelly C.
Staff Picks! Enjoy bookseller recommendations — in store and at villagebooks.com 20
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
Science Fiction Soulhider
Monsters of Ohio
by Dan Aykroyd (yes, that Dan Aykroyd) available now, hardcover, Harper
by John Scalzi
available in November, hardcover, Tor Books
Doug Beeston is an ordinary insurance adjustor in his mid-thirties, living an unremarkable life with his wife and kids in central New York State. Until one day, out of the clear blue sky, Doug is tasked by alien lifeforms to take on an extraordinary mission. The assignment? Hide the human souls they’ve harvested for mysterious reasons of their own in various locations across Earth. Channeling Dan Aykroyd’s signature hilarious wit and deep fascination with the supernatural, Soulhider is a highstakes, hilarious ride that only he could write.
Code and Codex
The Black Hole Whisky Gang: An Alternate
by Yoon Ha Lee
available now, hardcover, Saga Press
History of Modern Detroit by Christian Klaver
available in November, hardcover and paperback, Blackstone Publishing
An incredibly fun sci-fi western that pays homage to the rootin' tootin' gunslingin' days of yore. Full of action, romance, aliens, train heists, nerdy lizard-like fluffy pink aliens, and ghost town shootouts, Klaver masterfully combines two of my favorite genres into one beautifully pink and fluffy amalgamation that will have your eyes glued to the book from page one. –Kellen
Three-time Hugo Award finalist Yoon Ha Lee returns to science fiction with a swashbuckling space opera fighting against an evil empire trying to erase history. In the stars-spanning Censorate, languages other than the Republic’s own lingua rubra, which has reality-altering properties, are forbidden. Nevertheless, there are discrepancies. The Censorate is ruled by its Peacock, Aurelia, but wants to control and deploy the Censorate’s thousand-year traitor and prisoner for her own goals.
Everything Happens So Much
Strangebrew Apothecary
by Andrew H. Murray
by Rustin Lovewell
available now, hardcover, Little, Brown
available in December, hardcover, Hanover Square Press
When Ellastaria Strange joins a ragtag crew of con artists and serpent-oil salesmen, she’s just trying to escape the slow death of poverty. Yet Ella harbors a dangerous secret. Unlike her crooked co-workers, she’s the real thing; an apothecary with supernatural abilities, covertly helping people when she can. Ella accidentally reveals her true nature to fanatics with no tolerance for the supernatural. For any hope of a future, the scrappy misfits must band together, embrace what makes them outcasts, and trust in each other’s talents.
The Rouse
Take a sprinkle of Stephen King, mix it with a bit of Mark Twain, and you'll find yourself a John Scalzi. As with much of his canon, his newest effort is a blend of horror (not of the gory or grotesque), humor, and social commentary. Told from the viewpoint of a handful of characters in this small town facing current and real problems, we must answer the question, "who is the real monster amongst us?" –Erin
Esme Good is an unremarkable young woman working a dead-end job in an unremarkable city. Her only escape is The Elsewheres: tiny potions that allow you to disappear for fifteen minutes into alternate versions of yourself. Sadly, these only confirm her suspicion that she is, in a cosmic sense, living her worst life. Then, after a workplace incident that could have happened to anyone, Esme unintentionally becomes the most important person in this—or perhaps any—universe.
Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com
by China Miéville available now, hardcover, Random House Worlds
Have you ever wondered about those strange moments when you see something differently? Maybe the TV or radio does something it's not supposed to or a certain object has a vibe you just cannot deny? These are the roused. In this tale, a disparate group of people from all over Britain find strange occurrences in their lives that cause them to investigate further. What they find is a barely understood world of spirits that threatens to destroy the world because of something that happened during the great war that no one remembers. –Troy
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
21
Mystery, Suspense, Horror A Great Gift Butter: A Novel
of Food and Murder by Asako Yuzuki translated by Polly Barton
available now, paperback, HarperCollins
"Rich, complex, darkly atmospheric, and a story I wouldn't dare put down. I often think back on reading Butter like the memory of eating my favorite meal for the first time: an experience that sticks with you, never failing to leave you craving more." –Ethan
The Heights by Ian Rankin
available in November, hardcover, Cardinal
The Heights is London’s most coveted luxury high-rise apartment—designed to satisfy every need. But when nighttime concierge Dwayne Hogarth is found dead in the lobby, none of that is in their control anymore, and everyone’s under the unwelcome scrutiny of Detective Sergeant Gillian Gish. Her questions begin with the party on the 4th floor the night Dwayne died; a missing key to one of the apartments; and a mysterious gap in the security camera footage. Before long, Gish uncovers the unsavory truths and dark secrets that lurk beneath the glittering facades of the building and its inhabitants.
VB READS
Book Groups 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!
There Are No Giant Crabs in This Novel by Jason Pargin
available in November, hardcover, St. Martin’s Press
Everywhere Life Takes Me
1204 Harris Ave. 360.733.2066 • Historic Fairhaven 12thstreetshoes.com
Pargin's nightmarishly hilarious John Dies at the End series is back to entertain all who enter. And seriously, you can just start here. A massive, sticky pile of severed human limbs suddenly appears in the parking lot of a vacant department store in a desolate small town. This sounds like a case for local weirdos John, David, and Amy, partly because the cops don’t want the headache and partly because David’s own arm is in the pile, despite an identical copy of it still being attached to his body.
Milkteeth
by Caitlin Starling available now, hardcover, St. Martin's Press
We Ship! See villagebooks.com or ask your bookseller for details. 22 Winter 2026-2027
One of the most original vampire stories I know of! Who would have thought we needed a vampiric take on motherhood and breastfeeding—but you know what? It turns out we do, because this is a fantastic, bloody, yet elegant book. Starling has achieved a horror story that is beautifully monstrous yet also genuine and filled with unlikely connection. I couldn't wait to see where it was headed. –Caitriona
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
Public Access Afterworld by Jane Schoenbrun
available now, hardcover, Hogarth
Jane Schoenbrun's debut novel is lovingly campy and totally consuming. A girl gets sucked inside a TV, and it changes the course of several people's lives forever in far-reaching and intense ways. A patently queer and cuttingly funny look at the rotting foundations so many of our tech empires are built on, this book dares to dream that a couple of girls may be what's needed to burn it all down. –Bailey
A Great Gift The Winter Folk by Jen Julian
available now, paperback, Orbit
“The best way I can describe this book is it's Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away for adults, except also make it Appalachian gothic folklore. Moth, our protagonist, is invited to a strange, ever-moving lodge to serve a cast of otherworldly beings known as the Winter Folk. They are ancient, mysterious, and often cruel, gathering once a year for refuge from strange happenings in their respective worlds. What ensues is an imaginative roller-coaster that's equal parts bloody and cozy—I found myself re-reading parts and slowing down just to savor the story. A great holiday gift for that person in your life who likes weird stories and magic.” –Kelly S.
Dive Bar at the End of the Road by Kelley Armstrong
Horror A Great Gift Killer on the Road / The Babysitter Lives (Double Saga)
by Stephen Graham Jones available now, paperback, Saga Press
“Two stories, two killer final girls, all in one paperback book. In Killer on the Road, Harper is running from home and ends up in a deadly cat-and-mouse with her friends against a truck-driving serial killer. The Babysitter Lives is an eerie haunted house story that will leave you wondering what's real. Each one was gripping and tense, and squirm-worthy gory. If you haven't read Stephen Graham Jones before, this is a great introduction to his style!” –Lillian
Off the Reservation
by Stephen Graham Jones
available now, hardcover, Saga Press
Five years have passed since the massacre on the Blackfeet reservation in Jones’s breakout bestseller The Only Good Indians. Nathan Yellow Tail, one of the survivors of the revenge murders, finds himself in the hospital after a terrible accident that should’ve killed him and that nearly killed his best friend, Sebby. Nate’s life is out of balance, so when he is given the chance to reset his life, he jumps into a camper van that is almost as run down as his broken body, filled with three older Blackfeet, to find the bones of the lone Blackfeet boy who died at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School—where many Indigenous children were abused—and repatriate this boy home.
available now, hardcover, St. Martin's Press
On a stormy night, a car swerves to avoid hitting something, slamming into a tree, and four more cars follow. Five strangers find themselves stranded in a dive bar, and they are starting to realize everything is not as it seems. This book was so shocking and mind-bending in a way I was not prepared for! It was very suspenseful and it had some truly disturbing body horror that I will never forget! This supernatural horror is perfect for fans of The Cabin at the End of the World. –Gabby
Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com Thank You for Shopping Local
Look What the Cat Dragged In by Jason Rekulak
available now, hardcover, Flat Iron Books
Look What the Cat Dragged In follows a cartoonist named Penny who ends up cat-sitting the strangest and creepiest cat. This novel includes over 80 pages of illustrations, including some of her cartoons, as well as morbidly creepy artwork. As her health starts declining, and her drawings get more disturbing, she is starting to believe Godfrey is no ordinary cat. It's a fun, spooky time and I think cat lovers will especially enjoy this one! –Gabby
Winter 2026-2027
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 34.
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
Winter 2026-2027
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.
Resolutions for Writers Sunday, January 3, 10am-3pm at Village Books in Fairhaven Join local writing instructors for a day of intentional goal-setting, writing, and discussion for a productive and joyful new year in your writing life. Capacity is limited so register soon so you don't miss out! Registration opens November 13.
Introduction to Long Form Creative Writing with Sophie Larson Wagner
Writing Dialogue with Allison Gallant Thursdays, Feb. 25-March 18, 6pm-8pm at WCC (4 sessions) $189
Tuesdays, Jan. 26-Feb 9 & Feb. 23-Mar. 23, 6pm-8pm (no class Feb. 16) at WCC (8 sessions) $299
Linking Short Stories into a Novel with A. Muia
Memoir in Mixed Forms with Shoshana D. Kerewsky Saturdays, Jan. 30 & Feb. 6, 10am-1pm at WCC (2 sessions) $129
Saturday, Feb. 27, 10am-12pm Village Books in Fairhaven (1 session) $45
Poetry First with Barbara Bloom
"Story of my Life": Intermediate Fiction with Alle C. Hall
Wednesdays, Feb. 3-Mar. 24, 10am-12pm at WCC (8 sessions) $325
Sun., February 28, 11am-3pm Village Books in Fairhaven (1 session) $89
What Will You Write Next? with Gail Noble-Sanderson
Introduction to Hybrid Forms with Trin Encarnacion
Saturday, February 20, 10am-12pm Village Books in Fairhaven (1 session) $45?
Mondays, March 1 & 8, 6pm-7pm Village Books in Fairhaven (2 session) $45
Pre-registration Required
Registration Opens November 13
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!
Winter 2026-2027
25
Writing, Literature, Poetry Literature Tsundoku: The Japanese
Writing
The Wordspotter’s Guide:
Art of Collecting Books
A Jaunt Through Our Etymological Past
by Taiki Raito Pym
available in November, hardcover, Union Square & Co.
by Olivia Swarthout
available in November, hardcover, Plume
Olivia Swarthout tells a deeply-researched, authoritative story about the history of the English language—without losing sight of the fun. If you’ve ever wondered which meaning of cardinal came first (the direction, then the Church figure, then the bird) or lamented that we no longer give people names like John the Wifeless, Ralph the Haunted, and Hugh the Ass (all citizens of 11th century Britain), this is the book for you.
A Great Gift
The Japanese term tsundoku sums up a familiar concept: buying books and often putting them aside to read at a later date. The fact is that these books we've accumulated and which now reside in piles on our bedside table, in overflowing bookcases, or even on the floor number too many to be read in a single lifetime. This is where the art of living tsundoku comes in: the joy of choosing and buying books, rebellion against must-read lists, and creative ways to organize your bookshelves. Above all, this philosophy reminds us that we do not necessarily have to have read all the books we own to love them unconditionally.
Dog Songs: Poems
Writing
available now, paperback, Penguin Publishing Group
A Long Game:
by Mary Oliver
"Sweet and tender celebrations on the joy and company of dogs. For anyone who befriends or cares for animals, this gift is an extension of the poet's love for the natural world. Fond memories came dashing back to me in familiar friendliness of my own days with dogs." –Kevin
Notes on Writing Fiction
by Elizabeth McCracken
available in December, paperback, Ecco
Writing can feel like an endless series of decisions. How does one face the blank page? Move a character around a room? Deal with time? The good and bad news is that in fiction writing, there are no definitive answers. As much a book about the life of a working artist as it is a guide to thinking about fiction, A Long Game is a revelatory and indispensable resource for any writer.
Warmies
A Great Gift
“Soft, cozy, and warm! No, literally. Pop your favorite plush in the microwave and enjoy the aromatherapy of the lavender inside. Soft, warm, and weighted, Warmies are a perfect companion for a home spa day or a cozy night in this winter.” –Chloe Q.
Best Bookstore 2026 A heartfelt THANK YOU for voting Village Books 2025 Best Bookstore of the Northwest through Bellingham Alive! magazine. We are very honored and grateful.
26 Winter 2026-2027
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
SAVE THE DATES!
June 24-26, 2027 Bellingham, WA
The Chuckanut Writers Conference is more than just a weekend of workshops. It’s an opportunity to engage your passion for writing, connect with fellow storytellers, and nurture your craft in the inspiring Pacific Northwest environment. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or you’re an experienced author, the Chuckanut Writers Conference offers a welcoming space for every voice. We're busy putting together another stellar writers conference for 2027. Go to chuckanutwritersconference.com and sign up to receive the latest updates on presenters, registration, and other conference details, delivered straight to your inbox!
chuckanutwritersconference.com A Great Gift
A Great Gift
Toot Jotter Pens!
Pilot Kaküno Fountain Pens “Have you always wanted to get into fountain pens but don't know where to start? Try a Pilot Kaküno—they're designed for beginners! The Kaküno has a comfortable triangular grip and a cute little face engraved on the nib to make sure you orient it properly. It also comes with an ink cartridge so you can get writing right away! Despite the modest price tag, the Kaküno glides smoothly and is as much of a worthy steed as a pen triple its cost. It's never been easier to get the fountain pen bug!” –Adelaide
"Get organized in the cutest way and choose from our large assortments of Toot Pens! They'll liven up your calendar and brighten your planner! Get your type-A friend or relative colors that remind you of them. A great holiday stocking stuffer!" –Carolina
Check out their themed 4 packs!
Get it Write! Journals Guided, blank, lined . . . find just the right journal for you and everyone on your holiday giving list!
Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
27
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, local organic coffee, comforting Filipino cuisine, artisan sandwiches, and now . . . daily soup! 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 Come try the new additions to our breakfast menu!
Classes & Socials Next Chapter Café is hosting a variety of community events and workshops this fall and winter including cupcake/cake decorating, a gingerbread house building social, wreath making, simmer pot making, and more! Watch nextchapterbham.com for updates.
Scan the QR code to find events details, the menu, and more! Meanwhile, join us at the regularly scheduled Silent Book Club readings in the cafe starting at 5:30pm on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month.
Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm | Sundays 10am-8pm | nextchapterbham.com Now serving Bry's Filipino cuisine until 7pm Tuesday - Saturdays! (until 5pm, Sundays & Mondays)
Get Social Find staff book & gift favorites, new arrivals, author events, specials, recommendations and much more.
Follow Us!
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Like Us! Go to facebook.com/VillageBooks & facebook.com/VillageBooksLynden
Threads village_books 28
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
In the KITCHEN A Great Gift La Mesa Mexicana (The Mexican Table):
The Food of Mexica by Rosa Cienfuegos
available now, hardcover, Rizzoli
“In La Mesa Mexicana Rosa Cienfuegos is your personal guide in a culinary exploration of Mexico, with everything from snacks and drinks to entrees and desserts. The ingredients are all easy to find if you don't already have them, the recipes are easy to follow, and you'll find yourself daydreaming about the next time you get to cook. The Pollo Almendrado will blow your mind!” –Sam
Back to Green: Rediscovering a World of Delicious, Healthy Eating by Marcus Samuelsson
available now, hardcover, Avery
In recent years, Marcus Samuelsson has reimagined the way he cooks, focusing more and more on nourishing, healthy, “of-the-earth" ingredients from around the world: coconut, rice, corn, acai, plantains, teff, chillis and more. As Marcus illuminates, these ancient ingredients are heirlooms, telling stories of ancestry, migration, and resilience. They bind communities, and if we look closer, they also offer a path toward healthy living.
A Great Gift The Complete Slow Cooker: From
On the Hummus Route:
A Journey Between Cities, People, and Dreams
by Ariel Rosenthal and Orli Peli-Bronshtein available in November, hardcover, Artisan
Across the Middle East, one humble ingredient transcends the boundaries of language, politics, and history to define the cuisine of multiple cultures: The humble chickpea. With photographs and stories from nine cities, the book includes 70 recipes that highlight all the ways to cook with chickpeas, such as Pita Pockets from Jaffa, Tomato-Chickpea Soup from Cairo, and Chickpea and Spinach Pies from Beirut.
A Great Gift Funky's Hot Sauces “Funky's Hot Sauce Factory is locallyowned, providing award-winning, small batch, non-GMO organic sauces to the masses. These guys have even been featured on the talk show Hot Ones with Sean Evans. These sauces pair with a number of foods, not just taco night. Pick some up today and enjoy hot and flavorful sauces with dinner tonight!" –Erin
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Appetizers to Desserts by America's Test Kitchen
available now, paperback, America's Test Kitchen
"Nothing makes the holidays feel complete like the smell of a slow cooked meal filling the house. The Complete Slow Cooker is America's Test Kitchen's definitive guide on how to cook using a slow cooker. This book covers an amazing range of food: the expected (pasta sauce and beef stew) to the unexpected (wheat berry salad and crème brûlée)." –Darren
A Bowl of Goodness:
Nourishing Poems with a Side of Soup, Celebrating Community, Friendship, and Resilience
edited by Major Jackson
available now, hardcover, Storey Press
Who hasn’t been inspired by the smell of garlic and onion? Or thought of poetry watching an elder stir a pot? This collection is truly a mix of recipes and poetry, both of which are nourishing to heart and nourishing to belly. I’m particularly fond of Pádraic Ó Tuama’s “Annoying Recipe” for soup, complete with listening recommendations. Give this to the writer who loves to cook or the chef who loves a turn of phrase. –Sarah
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H Mart: The Cookbook
Simply Ina: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook
by Stacey Kwon
available now, hardcover, Clarkson Potter
Through her years of experience as a home cook, Ina Garten has learned that the best food is often the simplest. With just a little thought and a few good ingredients, you can make truly impressive dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply Ina celebrates the delicious results of streamlined cooking, sharing Ina’s expert tips and tricks for achieving the best flavor with the least amount of effort.
When the first H Mart opened in 1982, it was just a humble grocery store in Queens, carrying the most basic of Korean ingredients. In the 43 years since then, the tiny shop has grown into America’s largest Asian supermarket chain. The highlight of this cookbook is the 75 home-cook friendly recipes that make the most of H Mart’s ingredients. There are classic Korean dishes, like Spicy Cucumber Salad and Braised Beef Short Ribs, as well as unique twists using contemporary flavors.
Ottolenghi Simple Too:
Mindful Cooking: Simple
available now, hardcover, Artisan
by Ina Garten
A Cookbook
Recipes for Nurturing Body and Soul–A Plant-Based Cookbook
by Yotam Ottolenghi available now, hardcover, Ten Speed Press
Bring Yotam Ottolenghi’s innovation to your everyday with 135 new recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. Every dish has simplicity at its core and can be made in under 30 minutes, cooked in one pot or prepped ahead. Whatever your barriers to cooking, this book brings you into the kitchen with a promise that even the simplest of meals can be full of flavor and joy.
Beer Ghosts: In Search of Lost Hops and the Women Who Grew Them
by Eric Ripert
available now, hardcover, Random House
Three-Michelin-starred chef Eric Ripert, the New York Times bestselling author of Vegetable Simple and Seafood Simple, brings together his two great passions as he explores how food can bring health, joy, mindfulness, and gratitude into our daily lives, with over 75 easy and delicious plant-based recipes. Showcasing delicious, vegetable-forward dishes—from vibrant salads to hearty mains, Mindful Cooking invites us to reevaluate the way we think about cooking and eating.
Cooking Literature
by Jennifer A. Jordan available now, hardcover, University of Chicago Press
Until the early twentieth century, the work of picking hops was a time-consuming process that could only be done by hand, one cone at a time. In nineteenth-century Wisconsin, that work was performed almost exclusively by women and girls, who traveled to hop farms as summer came to a close and the harvest began. At the height of the hop boom in the 1860s, farmers and their families laid out beds and prepared food for tens of thousands of seasonal laborers, and hosted parties and dances well into the night. Despite the scale of Wisconsin’s hop boom (and subsequent crash), the industry left behind little trace aside from local records and archives. And it is that barely discernible trace that lures Jordan to dig deeper.
SingleThread: A Seasonal Approach to International Cooking, Farming, and Hospitality
by Kyle Connaughton and Katina Connaughton
available in November, hardcover, DK
SingleThread offers a deep dive into what truly seasonal cooking looks like and into the mindful approach the Connaughtons take to every aspect of their work, from their warm hospitality to the meticulous design philosophy behind the restaurant and inn. With stunning photography and intricate illustrations, the book offers a tour of the farm and restaurant while also delving into the team’s unique agricultural methods.
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Gardening
The Gardener's Bible: Sustainable Gardening, Troubleshooting Tips, and Inspirational Gardens
by Claire Jones
available now, hardcover, Abrams
Whether you're just getting started or refining an established garden, this book makes sustainable gardening feel accessible, creative, and deeply rewarding. Packed with detailed illustrations and inspiring photography, this volume explores a wide range of garden styles, from drought-resistant and climate-adapted spaces to cottage gardens and Japanese-inspired designs. It also introduces key concepts such as recognizing native versus non-native plants, choosing the right tools and soil, and participating in community gardening and plant swaps.
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
In the
KITCHEN Phởnomenal Nights:
Vietnamese Shareables & Playful Cocktails for Any Gathering
by Yenvy & Quynh-vy Pham
available in November, hardcover, Sasquatch Books
Phỏnomenal Nights is your ultimate guide to throwing a Vietnamese-style party that nobody wants to leave. Think interactive wrap feasts, show-stopping party boards, and cocktails so good they'll spark a karaoke session. Every recipe carries the spirit of a family who built a community from scratch—one bowl of phỏ at a time. Fish sauce is your new best friend. Fresh herbs are non-negotiable. Stuffy? Absolutely not.
Holiday Cooking An Iced Christmas:
The Biscuiteers Festive Guide to Baking, Icing and Decorating
by Harriet Hastings
available now, hardcover, Quadrille
This is a joyful celebration of festive baking from the London biscuit brand that understands all about decorating for an occasion. A perfect cookbook to get you in the festive mood, An Iced Christmas is full of ingenious ideas for iced biscuit decorations, cakes and bakes, using Biscuiteers' tried and tested recipes, step-by-step instructions, and QR code video tutorials.
Fairhaven's Finest Handmade Buttercream
FUDGE
A Great Gift Cannelle et Vanille:
Nourishing, Gluten-Free Recipes for Every Meal and Mood by Aran Goyoaga
available now, hardcover, Blue Star Press
“This cookbook makes a wonderful gift for anyone, but it is especially useful to those who have recently adjusted to a gluten-free diet and want to find the joy in cooking again. Aran Goyoaga's recipes are delicious, nutritious, beautifully presented, and simple to follow. There are additional notes on the chemistry involved, cooking techniques, and pantry staples for making ingredients from scratch as well. Many of these meals have become favorites in my household.” –Aina
Enjoy a delicious variety of rotating flavors as well as traditional favorites—ask for a sample! LaConner Tea Company "These unique blends are handcrafted locally in LaConner, Washington! They are the yummiest teas I have ever had the pleasure to sip on. They bring comfort on the hardest, coldest of days. They are the perfect gift for any tea lovers. My favorites are Pacific NW Breakfast Blend and the Sleepy Tea!" –Kiana
A Great Gift
Bee Works Honey-Wildflower “I have added this delightful wildflower honey to my jasmine green tea for years now and never get tired of it! It’s quite subtle and perfect for lighter, refreshing drinks. Enjoy!" –Laura
A Great Gift Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
31
Tickets on sale now.
Don’t miss these shows in 2026-2027!
Take a friend to the theatre!
Enjoy our Seasonal Cockatail Menu by the Fireplace
TICKETS: bellinghamtheatreguild.com
1600 H St., Bellingham | 360-733-1811
Committed to strong community journalism
32
Join us for Happy Hour!
Proudly telling stories about the people, businesses and organizations doing good things around Whatcom County
Mon & Wed-Fri
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
2:30pm to 5:30pm
Village Books and Paper Dreams
LYNDEN In the Waples Mercantile Building, Downtown Lynden
New Year's
20% OFF
Storewide
SALE
Dec. 31 & Jan. 1
GIFT
IDEAS GALORE
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
Winter 2026-2027
33
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 *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 Thanks to all the students who entered the Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record Kids Design An Ad Contest. We are floored by your talent! Check out these fun entries created by: •Drew from Conerstone Christian School (age 8)
Lynden
FRONT STREETERS Book Group 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. • November 18, 7pm –The Living by Annie Dillard • December 16, 7pm Member Recommendations!
You are invited to share a recommended title—a book that has been made into a TV show or movie!
Kicking Off the 2027 Theme –"Water you Reading?" And •Mason from Custer Elementary (age 10)
• January 20, 7pm I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger 2027 Whatcom READS
• February 17, 7pm The Shipping News by Annie Proulz All Are Welcome!
Attendees are eligible for a 15% discount on group selections
34 Winter 2026-2027
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, November 7, 5pm TODD WARGER –The Mountain Runners:
America’s First Adventure Race, 1911-1913 An endurance competition unlike any in their day or likely any since—the Mount Baker Marathons were one of the greatest athletic achievements of the time, yet today few know of their existence. Local historian Todd Warger is a 2013 Emmy Award nominee for the documentary film about these competitions. Missed this event in Lynden? Catch Todd at Village Books in Fairhaven on January 16 at 6pm.
Saturday, November 14, 4pm GREG BOOS –Smuggler:
Drugs, Gangs, and Refugees at America's Northern Border Smuggler is the truth-is-stranger-than-fiction story of how a quaint bed-and-breakfast on the Canadian border became the epicenter of debates about refugee protections and violent immigration policing inside the United States. Come meet the local lawyer who was in the middle of it all and get a first-hand account of this incredible and important story.
Sunday, February 28, 2pm WHATCOM WRITES Group Reading –Anthology
Thanks for Your Support of Literature Live!
Whatcom WRITES invites writers of all ages and experience levels to explore a theme inspired by the Whatcom READS book each year. Top entries are selected for publication in the Whatcom WRITES anthology and contributors are invited to read at public presentations. Join us in Lynden as select 2027 contributors share their submissions based on the theme Light in the Dark, drawn from I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger. This event is free to attend—registration required. See villagebooks.com.
Find a Great Selection of
Games & Puzzles
Head Downstairs & Check it Out!
Lynden Writing Group
November 11 • December 9 January 13 • February 10
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.
See pages 67-78 for additional events, book groups, and more! Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
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!
November 7 • December 5 • January 2 • February 6
Spanish Story Time
Saturdays, November 14 & December 12
Join us for these special story times presented in Spanish as we welcome volunteers from our Round It Up partner— Racial Unity Now (RUN)—to lead the fun!
Third Saturday Story Times
Read to a Dog
Saturdays, November 21 January 16 • February 20
(Note: The dogs are staying home in December- busy preparing for the holidays!
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.
Story Time with a
FIRE FIGHTER Special 4th Saturdays
Stop by Story Time in Fairhaven Tuesdays at 11am
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Winter 2026-2027
Saturdays, November 28 & January 23 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.
Saturdays, December 26 • January 30 Special 4th & 5th Saturdays
Building Community One Book at a Time
Great Gifts
Wavertree & London Soaps "These soaps all smell so incredibly good, and they'd make for the perfect stocking stuffer! Goats Milk is my absolute favorite scent, but you can't go wrong with any of them!" –Gabby
Book Plushie Combos "A great way to read a book is with a plushie of the character. A great holiday combo present. Something to read, then something to cuddle up with after a great book.” –Troy
No Man’s Land Jewelry "Entirely made in the Pacific NW with sustainable materials, No Man's Land jewelry is unique, lightweight, comfortable, fun & often humorous. Each piece is made with vintage papers and is one of a kind. I like them so much that I own four pairs of earrings and one necklace!" –Gaye
Styles & selection vary throughout the season and between stores.
Saturday, December 5, 6pm
Lynden Lighted Parade
Hoek Photography
Along Front Street through Downtown Lynden FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
"Welkom" in this Holiday Season Saturday, December 5th, 2026 with the Northwest Lighted Christmas Parade in Lynden. Starting at 6pm a lighted menagerie of cars, pick-ups, trucks, floats, wagons, farm equipment, and more will light up Front Street! The Parade starting point is at the Fairway Shopping Center, located at Front Street and 17th St., and continues east on Front St. into beautiful downtown Lynden, ending at 3rd St. This event is understandably VERY popular so give yourself plenty of time to get there and find your spot. Winter 2026-2027
37
Great Gifts! A Fun and Unique Selection of Jewelry including
Big Metal London Earrings
Fahlo Bracelets “Not only do these bracelets feature a wide variety of animals, colors, and stones, but they actually allow you to track an animal in the wild! Input the bracelets' code onto the app or website to check in on your animal buddy's movements, and learn about current conservation efforts. A great stocking stuffer for any animal lover in your life!” –Chloe H.
Styles & selection will vary
"I am a fiend for fun earrings, and those from Big Metal London are consistently some of my favorites. There's something for everyone, whether you need silly ceramic fish, or a classier pair with pretty stones. They have a good mix of gold and silver options AND they are SO affordable! A perfect gift all around!” –Allison
and MUCH more!
38 Winter 2026-2027
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
SOCIAL Current Events STUDIES Smuggler:
Live Through This:
Drugs, Gangs, and Refugees at America’s Northern Border
by Shuli Branson
by Reece Jones and Greg Boos available now, hardcover, Prometheus
Border expert Reece Jones and immigration lawyer Greg Boos reveal the hidden world of America’s northern border and provide readers with urgent insights into immigration and border policing throughout the United States. Featuring personal interviews, in-depth research, and a propulsive narrative, Smuggler is the untold true story of how a quaint bed and breakfast on the northern border became the epicenter of debates about refugee protections and violent immigration policing inside the United States.
Meet the Author!
at Village Books in Lynden Saturday, November 14, 4pm
GREG BOOS
Register to save your seat at VILLAGEBOOKS.COM NOTE: The book has been optioned by HBO Max for a series that explores the line between a true-crime thriller and real-world geopolitical struggle at the U.S.–Canada border!
An Anarchist’s Antidote to Despair
available in January, paperback, Pluto Press
Why does modern life feel so bleak? Capitalism has monopolized our sense of what is possible, and politics is just a spectacle—a fictional universe of heroes and villains where we are merely the audience. The common sense of politics— voting, petitioning, and protesting—dooms us to failure. Shuli Branson argues that the way out isn't through, but around. With a sidestep, we can forge exciting new ways of living.
Nice Try, Tyranny: 350+ Stickers for the Resistance from Andrews McMeel Press
available in November, paperback, Andrews McMeel
With this collection of over 350 energizing stickers, you can keep the struggle going— whether you're customizing your gear or water bottle, adding to protest signs, decorating letters to officials, or giving others the gift of resistance. Meet the moment with flair—and keep the movement going—Rise up and fight back!
Who We Are: Our Buried
History of Anti-Black Racism visitskagitvalley.com
by Jeffery Robinson
available in January, hardcover, Knopf
Who We Are is a deeply enriching guidebook through our history for any American. Steadfastly grounded and astutely attuned for our current historical moment, Robinson's book is overflowing with a history it is imperative that we teach and learn from. Rock-solid prose anchors readers as Robinson comprehensively explores a field that he is obviously an expert in. I recommend this book to every reader interested in everything from U.S. history to our current civic life. –Bailey
Treat Yourself!
with JOHN COWSILL FEBRUARY 19 NiTE presents A Christmas Carol 12/11-19 Amahl and the Night Visitors 12/23 · Celtic Yuletide 12/20 New Year’s Eve Party with Mara & the Charm
Be sure to buy a sweet treat for yourself the next time you're in the store. You deserve it!
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon · 360.336.8955 · lincolntheatre.org Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
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40
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
True Tales Sasquatch Country:
Sleuth-Hound:
The Case of the Real Sherlock Holmes
Death, Myth, and Truth in the New American Wilderness
by Lindsey Fitzharris
by Chuck Thompson
available in November, hardcover, Counterpoint
available now, hardcover, Farrar, Straus and Giroux
On Christmas morning, 2024, Dean Pommerville and Eric Straughter were reported missing from the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Three days later, their frozen bodies were recovered. When Dean and Eric's disappearance became known, they were labeled as Sasquatch hunters. The real reason behind their fatal hike told a very different story. Based on interviews with the families, rescue volunteers, and law enforcement, Thompson reconstructs the search-and-rescue mission in a white-knuckled race against the elements and brings to light media sensationalism over the myth of bigfoot, the pressures of an overwhelmed sheriff's office, and the mourning families who just want answers to what happened to their loved ones.
Since Sherlock Holmes first appeared in 1887, he has become a global phenomenon. Yet the man Conan Doyle credited as Sherlock's prototype, Joseph Bell has slipped into the shadows. Fitzharris brings Bell center stage, recounting how his work took him from ward to witness box as a medical detective. He worked closely with the police surgeon Henry Duncan Littlejohn and a pioneering ballistics expert named Dr. Watson, and even collaborated with Conan Doyle to overturn a homicide conviction. Bell’s forensic investigations took him from gaslit alleyways to Gilded Age drawing rooms, put him on the trail of poisoners and child killers, and even drew him into the hunt for Jack the Ripper.
The Widow Van Gogh: Tragedy, Triumph, and the Woman Who Made Vincent Van Gogh a Legend
Thank You for Shopping Local
Ocean of Bones: The Hunt for
by Joan Martelli
the Pirate Slave Ship Guerrero
available now, hardcover, Pegasus Books
Johanna "Jo" van Gogh-Bonger is a critical piece of the puzzle in understanding the life and posthumous fame of Vincent van Gogh, but most have never even heard her name. Jo was the wife of Vincent’s younger brother Theo, and when Theo died just six months after Vincent, she found herself with an extraordinary inheritance that included a treasure trove of Vincent's drawings, letters, and some four hundred paintings. Joan Martelli offers new insight into the burning questions that have long puzzled art lovers—why Vincent cut off part of his ear, why he shot himself, and how, after selling one painting in his lifetime, he achieved such worldwide fame.
by David Kushner
available in November, hardcover, Gallery
In 1827, the brig Guerrero was racing across the Florida Straits with 561 kidnapped Africans in its hold. Though Britain and the United States had banned the Atlantic slave trade, outlaw captains like José Gomez attempted to get around their Navy patrols and make for Cuba, where markets remained open. They never made it. In 2004, when a Black diver and Vietnam veteran named Ken Stewart learned that the Guerrero might still be in American waters, he marshalled a group he called Diving with a Purpose to go looking for the lost shipwreck.
Freedom’s Gate:
Maya Angelou, Lorraine Hansberry, Abbey Lincoln, Miriam Makemba, and Nina Simone Live at the New York Nightclub that Shaped the Civil Rights Movement by Soyica Diggs Colbert
available now, hardcover, W.W. Norton
Before they were household names, these now-famous women needed a place to practice and perform. That place was the Village Gate, a nightclub that Art D’Lugoff opened at the dawn of an unprecedented decade in civil rights. The women of the Gate created something that few could have imagined: a downtown hotspot for Black art, culture, music, and politics. The Gate became an outpost for freedom struggles outside of Harlem and the American South, a haven that did not abide by the norms of segregation or the expectations of "women’s work," and a world-renowned venue defined by its radical musicians, artists, and budding stars.
"In the winter she curls up around a good book and dreams away the cold." — Ben Aaronovitch, Broken Homes
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
41
History A Brief History of Cities in 32 Inventions:
The Ideas and Technologies That Made Modernity Possible by Jonn Elledge
available now, hardcover, The Experiment
From elevators to electric lighting, street numbering to sewers, plumbing and lighting to walls and windows, Elledge guides us through the history of the making of our built environment. Revealing fascinating origin stories about seemly ordinary systems and reminding us that much of the technology we take for granted was once earth-shattering, Elledge invites us to join him on an illuminating, uproarious, and often surprising tour of the history of the world as we know and live in it.
The Death of Socrates:
Hero, Villain, Chatterbox, Saint
by Emily Wilson
available in November, paperback, Harvard University Press
Socrates' death in 399 BCE has figured large in our world ever since, shaping how we think about heroism and celebrity, religion and family life, state control and individual freedom, the life of the intellectual and of the ordinary citizen. In The Death of Socrates, best-selling classicist and translator Emily Wilson analyzes the enormous and enduring power that the trial and death of Socrates has exerted over the Western imagination.
This is Photography: The First 200 Years
edited by Natalie Herschdorfer available now, hardcover, Thames & Hudson
From the earliest experiments in fixing light on paper, photography has blossomed and proliferated to a point where some 1.9 trillion photographs are snapped annually. Photographs are now at the core of our image-dominated culture. This book carves a cohesive, compelling path through this dizzying mass of information. Presented chronologically, the book showcases key photographs and objects year by year, each accompanied by a short text entry offering historical, technical, or critical context.
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. 42 Winter 2026-2027
The Boundless Biddy Mason: An Odyssey from Slavery to Freedom Across the American West by Kevin Waite
available now, hardcover, University of California Press
Born in bondage, Biddy Mason endured one of the longest forced migrations in American history—three thousand miles on foot from Georgia to California. She and her daughters labored in slavery in the “free” state of California for five years before launching a landmark emancipation suit in 1856. Free at last, she defied barriers of race and gender, rising to prominence as a healer, philanthropist, church builder, and real estate entrepreneur.
On the Street of Hidden Shops: One City Block, Two
Thousand Years, and a Walk Through the Layered Lives of Rome
by Elizabeth Rodini
available in November, hardcover, University of Chicago Press
History lies thick on Via delle Botteghe Oscure, a museum atop a convent atop ancient ruins; layered in are traces of artisans and poets, pilgrims and saints, a Fascist deportation, a communist coffee bar. Rodini’s On the Street of the Hidden Shops digs deep into this corner of the city, uncovering a set of surprising, often poignant narratives that range across two thousand years. bar, a political assassination, and shopkeepers, too. These stories all rest upon a single city block, the same place where, in 13 BCE, the triumphal Roman general Lucius Cornelius Balbus built a monumental theater complex in his own honor.
Sports - The NFL!
The Game by Peter King
available now, hardcover, W.W. Norton
Peter King is synonymous with American football. Now, in The Game, King has brought all his knowledge and insight together in one place to tell the story of the modern NFL as no one else could. Moving from the mid-1980s, when the league went head-to-head with baseball in popularity, to the present, when it dominates every other entertainment in America, King narrates the NFL’s explosive rise from the inside.
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." Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
History A Great Gift
Department of Fate:
The Promise, the Power, and the Collapse of America’s Most Consequential Institution
A People's History of the United States
by Rachel Maddow
available now, paperback, HarperCollins
available in November, hardcover, Crown
"Detailed, well-researched account of our nation's history highlighting the experiences and perspectives of the people as opposed to the powerful. This book provides insight into where we are today as a country and how we might bring about change. A vital read for history enthusiasts and truth seekers alike." –Sasha
In this searing new history, television news host, author, and political commentator Rachel Maddow traces thee triumphs and misdeeds of the United States Department of Justice through the founding and rise of the KKK, the riotous chaos of the Red Scare, civil rights murders and violence, railroad barons’ crushing the unions, cabinet scandals that make Watergate look like Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, the faux erudite lawlessness of the Reagan Administration, and the collapse into thug rule in the Trump Administration.
by Howard Zinn
Biographies & Memoirs Abandoning a Cat: A Personal Story
by Haruki Murakami, translated by Philip Gabriel available now, hardcover, Knopf
This haunting personal essay is a reflection on what it means to be a father and what it means to be a son, and also on a particular moment of Japanese history, through the aftermath of the second world war on into the present. Murakami fans may find common themes from beloved novels such as Kafka on the Shore and The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle—but will also be surprised by the raw honesty of this beautiful autobiographical piece.
Mona: An Immodest Memoir of Race and Rebellion
The Lies We Tell for America: A Memoir
by Ber Anena available in November, hardcover, Flatiron Books
Ber Anena's friendly-casual tone quickly draws readers in to her true-to-life examination of what has become of an older concept of America after decades of kicking around in the eddies of modern culture. This concept, of America as a country of dreams that anyone can reach for, inspires visions of a U.S. that was a superpower in its prime: is it still that country? Was it ever, as much as it loved to believe it was? –Bailey
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by Azra Liaqat Khan
available in November, hardcover, Tiny Reparations Books
Khan's personable prose and laugh-outloud storytelling make her unique story an engrossing read. The double-life she lives as academic Azra and stripper Mona is a dichotomy easily understood as dangerous, made more compelling through the comparisons she draws to being Muslim and American in the early 2000's. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, Khan shows over and over that she is willing to grow into the cracks for a chance at thriving. –Bailey
Thank You for Shopping Local
Penelope: A Love Story by Paul Bochner
available now, hardcover, Crown
The extraordinary true story of an injured, abandoned fawn and the man who nurses her back to health, transforming his understanding of love and erasing the barrier between humans and animals. "This is a book drenched in tenderness and suffused with wonder. . . . Penelope is a revelation."—Sy Montgomery, New York Times bestselling author of The Soul of an Octopus.
Winter 2026-2027
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Biographies & Memoirs Justice Was Her Calling: The Fierce and Fascinating Life of Dorothy Kenyon
by Jennifer L. Brinkley
available now, hardcover, University of California Press
Kenyon pushed equality onto the global stage long before it was widely embraced. She was a longtime ACLU national board member, the only woman appointed by the League of Nations to study women’s legal status worldwide, and a US delegate to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. Justice Was Her Calling is the first full-length biography of the New York judge, lawyer, and civil liberties champion whose litigation strategies helped transform the Equal Protection Clause into a powerful tool for women’s rights.
We Thought They’d Never Leave:
Musings on Food and Family
by Tony Shalhoub
available now, hardcover, Gallery
Every summer for over five decades, more than fifty members of the Shalhoub family have gathered in Door County, Wisconsin, for a week of home-cooked meals, fiercely competitive card games, old stories, new memories, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. Through stories spanning four generations—from an orphaned Lebanese boy who survived wartime hunger to the sprawling family he would one day help create—Shalhoub traces the Lebanese American family traditions, meals, and rituals that continue to bring the family back together year after year.
I’ll Believe in Anything: The Making of Heated Rivalry Season One
by Jacob Tierney
available now, hardcover, Little, Brown
I'll Believe in Anything takes readers behind the curtain, showing how Tierney, his producing partner Brendan Brady, and the entire team drew on a deep reverence for Reid's work, impeccable casting, clever sets and costume design, and thoughtful sex scene choreography to both rewrite the playbook for adapting romance novels to the screen and obliterate the long-held misconception that queer love stories have limited appeal.
Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com 44
Winter 2026-2027
To Grieve Is To Carry Another Time by Matthew Salesses
available in December, hardcover, Little, Brown
Matthew Salesses has spent his career writing about the power of storytelling, but he wasn’t prepared for the story of his own life to fall apart. When his wife was diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer, the map they made together suddenly led nowhere. After her untimely death, Salesses realized he would need new paths, new stories, new philosophies, new ways of understanding the world, to navigate the unknown landscape of loss.
Elf Unwrapped: Behind the Scenes of a Modern Christmas Classic by Andy Richter with Aaron Karo available now, hardcover, Dey Street Books
Audiences fell in love with the film about Buddy, the charming (and oversized) “elf ” with a heart of gold. You can now step into the magical world of Elf with this captivating oral history, written by beloved comedian and actor Andy Richter, who watched the on-set shenanigans unfold before his very eyes. Including never-before-seen photos, behind-the-scenes secrets, and exclusive interviews from Will Ferrell, director Jon Favreau, costar Zooey Deschanel, and many others. This book is the perfect gift for anyone who believes in the magic of Christmas—and knows that the best way to spread holiday cheer is by singing loud for all to hear.
Performing Arts There and Back Again: The Unofficial Oral History of The Lord of the Rings Films
by Sam Moore
available now, hardcover, Atria
Journalist Sam Moore weaves together interviews with stars, writers, and brilliant crew members who revolutionized filmmaking special effects and brought to vivid life what was thought of as a project as impossible to adapt as the hobbits scaling Mount Doom. Twenty-five years after the first film’s premiere, There and Back Again takes readers behind the scenes into director Peter Jackson’s battles to get the trilogy made, the groundbreaking motion capture special effects that helped bring Gollum to life, and how the cast became a true fellowship that remains bonded to this day.
Building Community One Book at a Time
Performing Arts Bob Dylan: Through the Open Window (1956-1963)
Dead Dharma:
available now, hardcover, Abrams
by Casey Rae
The Grateful Dead and the American Quest for Transcendence
by Sean Wilentz
An illustrated account of Dylan and his early work, from his origins in Minnesota to his time in Greenwich Village to the concert at Carnegie Hall that marked the end of the beginning of his career, the book traces his meteoric rise with expert commentary and an astounding collection of rare photographs and ephemera, many never before published.
Showbiz! My Life as a Middle-Aged Man by Murray Hill
available now, hardcover, Gallery Books
Murray Hill, best known as Fred from Somebody, Somewhere, shares his history from growing up in a conservative household to finding his identity and support in chosen family and, of course, showbiz. Warm, fearless, and laugh-out-loud funny, Hill’s story of survival, reinvention, and finding joy against the odds is inspiring. Because when life hands you trauma, you turn it into a tight five.
A Great Gift 33 1/3 Series available now, paperback, Bloomsbury Publishing
"I recommend the long-running series ’33 1/3’ —each edition is a deep-dive into a singular LP. With nearly 200 unique albums discussed you’ll have no trouble finding just the right essay to gift to your favorite audiophile. My personal favs include essays detailing White Limozeen by Dolly Parton, Rid of Me by PJ Harvey and Bjork's Homogenic. Upcoming new releases (all in time for the holidays) include the Cher album Believe, Disintegration by The Cure and Whitney Houston's classic I'm Your Baby Tonight." –Brent
available in November, hardcover, Oxford
Blending cultural history, spiritual sociology, and musicology, Casey Rae connects the band's improvisational ethos to ancient and contemporary Buddhist thought, early and ongoing psychedelic exploration, and the midcentury counterculture along with its commodified reincarnations. From the Beat Generation to today's spiritual supermarket, Dead Dharma shows how the Dead's music and mythos offered many a path of transcendence and ecstatic communion within the endless dance of impermanence.
Look at Me
by Dustin Hoffman available in November, hardcover, Simon Six
Dustin Hoffman has been one of the most compelling and unpredictable figures in American culture. Now, in Look at Me, Hoffman turns his remarkable powers of observation on himself. Warm, candid, hilarious, and deeply moving, it is an intimate memoir about art, ambition, family, friendship, and the mysteries of a creative life. Hoffman shares stories including an unexpected clash with Steve McQueen, encounters with legends including Laurence Olivier, Maggie Smith, Mike Nichols, Robert Duvall, Arthur Miller, and Gene Hackman, and the personal experiences that shaped some of his most celebrated performances With the wit, vulnerability, and emotional honesty that have defined his finest work, Hoffman invites readers into the private world behind the public icon. The result is a memoir as distinctive as the man himself: funny, searching, wise, and impossible to forget..
Sound Tracks:
An Archaeological Journey Through Our Musical Past
by Graeme Lawson
available now, hardcover, Knopf
Graeme Lawson, one of the world’s foremost archaeologists, ushers the reader from the present day all the way back to the dawn of time, revealing music’s role as an essential medium through which we commemorate our histories, form our identities, and communicate our dreams for the future. Expansive in its scope and brimming with lively, unforgettable insights, Sound Tracks lends an ear to an unheard past, offering a new portrait of music as an ancient and magical force.
Thanks for Shopping Local! FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
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Village Books
2026 TOP SELLING
LOCAL AUTHOR TITLES
Treat yourself or someone you know to one or more of these bestselling titles— all by local authors and all available at Village Books and through villagebooks.com. Be sure to check our our featured local author and Chuckanut Editions displays as well!
October 2025 - October 2026
1. Geology of the San Juan Islands by Ned Brown (Northwest)
2. Blue Jay by Dionisio Romero and Angela Letoi (Northwest)
3. Mariella of Out-West 4. Colophon Cafe Best Cookbook Collection by David Killian (Cooking)
5. Family: Formed, Found, and Chosen: 2026 Whatcom Writes Anthology by Whatcom Reads (Short Story Anthologies)
Scandalous Father of Fairhaven by H. Leon Greene (Northwest)
Thank You for Shopping Local
7. This Old Building: A Guide to Buying, Restoring & Managing Historic Commercial Property by Robert K. Hall (Building)
8. Little Wolf
by Ella Higginson (Classics)
6. Dirty Dan Harris:
Local Authors • Local Content
Great Gifts!
by Nicole Halverson and Serafina Hallie (Paperback Picture Books)
9. Crash Course: 101 Stories, 101 Words or Less by James Schotzer (Short Story Anthology)
10. Our Hearts Beat as One / Sa'le Q'ewet Netse-lh by Tah-Mahs Ellie Kinley & Julie Trimingham illustrated by Sienum Jason Laclair (Kids Northwest)
Winter 2026-2027
47
Getting Out There Travel Literature
Travel Photography
The Blue Hours: My Summers
The Best Journey in the World: An Antarctic Story
and Winter in Antarctica
by Stephanie Krzywonos
by Kim Stanley Robinson
available in December, hardcover, Washington Square Press
available in December, hardcover, Little, Brown
Over six polar summers and one astonishing winter, Krzywonos encounters adorable penguins, colossal glaciers, and whiteout storms. Old explorers’ huts show the extremes to which people are willing to go to find peace. She reckons with Antarctica’s complicated past alongside her own grief and desire to live—all while auroras, the moon, sunrise, and darkness itself nourish her. Throughout, she also traces the stories of female, queer, and BIPOC explorers often left out of the annals of Antarctic history to ask: Who truly belongs in Antarctica, a place that has come to symbolize despair and hope in a rapidly warming planet?
In 1995, Robinson traveled to Antarctica for research for his Mars novels. It was a dream excursion: he traveled around the continent, by snowmobile and helicopter and airplane. All the while, the story of the Robert Scott expedition of 1911loomed in Robinson's mind, and he tried to follow in their ill-fated footsteps. Replete with gorgeous photographs taken in a place many will never set foot, and woven throughout with Robinson’s sharp, funny, and personal voice, prepare to take the best journey in the world.
America Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the Hidden Wonders of the United States by Atlas Obscura, Doug Baldinger, and Louise Story
available in November, hardcover, Ten Speed Press
America Obscura takes readers on a journey that stretches from shore to shore, in search of the country’s folk rituals and roadside museums, its outsider artists and eccentric prophets, its forgotten dreamers and improbable visionaries who help shape the landscape every day. Equal parts travel companion and cultural almanac, this is the definitive field guide to America’s hidden marvels.
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Check Out Our Collection of
Local Guide Books Trusted Advice From the Experts
We have
GUIDES GALORE! Get insight from experienced experts! 48
Winter 2026-2027
“Not all those who wander are lost.” — J.R.R. Tolkien Building Community One Book at a Time
A GREAT Gift!
Pre-order Your Copy Today
HIDDEN PEAKS of the North Cascades
Images and Tales from Beyond the Trails by Bob Kandiko
Village Books is excited to announce our newest Chuckanut Edition title, Hidden Peaks of the North Cascades! Author and photographer Bob Kandiko has been venturing into the most remote reaches of the North Cascades for the past fifty years—places few have had the chance to see firsthand. In this stunning pictorial volume, divided into eighteen geographic regions, Bob shares his favorite images alongside stories from his adventures in each area, with a small hand-drawn map accompanying every region to guide readers along the way. In the vein of Tom Miller’s The North Cascades, Bob’s photography invites readers to journey through the range and experience the rugged beauty of this remarkable mountain landscape in the Pacific Northwest. Black and white photography distills the world to its essence, shadow and light. This is especially true when the subject is the mountains. Inspired by Pacific Northwest photographers such as Art Wolfe, Lee Mann, Tom Miller, and Pat O’Hara, Bob endeavored to photograph the raw majesty of the alpine ranges. Always choosing the unknown over the norm, Bob has embraced adventure with all its uncertainties. Exploring the North Cascades has provided him with a lifetime of such adventures. Through this gorgeous new volume, YOU can experience his adventures with him. "Bob Kandiko's photographs of the North Cascades amount to a complete collection of summits, shot from all the most remote locations. The stark clarity of the needle-like peaks reminds us of how difficult it is to attain them on foot." –Alan Kearney, climber and author "Bob Kandiko, in his collection of black and white North Cascades photographs, has captured the dramatic aspect of these rugged, remote mountains. And he has been everywhere. Looking at these lovely photographs, it is easy to imagine the crunch of crampons on steep snow, a tent on a high ridge being pelted with rain, billowing in the wind, the grit of callused fingers on granite. Hidden Peaks of the North Casdades is a special book. I spent hours, enchanted by the pictures, awash in memories of my own adventures on Redoubt, Isolation, Eldorado and Dome. It is a book I will return to again and again."–Malcolm Bates, author of Three Fingers Lookout
Chuckanut Editions is Village Books' own publishing imprint. Dedicated to the preservation of local history, we are thrilled to share this book with you! FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
49
Science
Rotten Botany: Darkly
Deceptive, Bizarrely Beautiful & Oddly Alluring Plants
by Varla A. Ventura
Bird Songs:
available now, paperback, New Page Books
250 North American Birds in Song by Les Beletsky, featuring audio from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology available now, hardcover, Epic Ink
"Birding is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in our area, and for good reason: over 500 bird species live in or migrate through Washington due to its incredibly diverse ecosystems. This book is a great chance to get familiar with commonly seen birds and their calls, and is a perfect gift for the burgeoning birder in your life! More advanced birders can challenge themselves to check all 250 off of their life lists." –Bailey
Beyond the eerie aesthetics, Rotten Botany delves into each plant’s scientific and common names, origins, ethnobotanical and folkloric uses, and fascinating lore. You’ll also find practical details such as growth habits, growing zones, and cultivation tips, allowing you to nurture your own collection of “rottanicals.” Prepare to encounter real plants that seem ripped from the pages of a horror novel.
A Natural History of the Spirits: On Ecology, Belonging, and the Sublime by Jori Lewis
available in November, hardcover, The New Press
Jori Lewis brings a much-needed viewpoint to conversations surrounding science and culture by sharing her unique experiences in this lively book. As a longtime science writer and resident of Senegal, Lewis reveals that where many Western audiences may see gaps between science and nature, there is a way to instead see bridges. –Bailey
A Great Gift
If I Am Right, and I Know I Am:
Inge Lehmann, the Woman Who Discovered Earth’s Innermost Secret
A History of Science in 21 Women
by Hanne Strager
available in December, hardcover, Columbia University Press
by Marieke Bigg
In the 1930s, the pioneering Danish scientist Inge Lehmann (1888–1993) made a groundbreaking discovery about the nature of Earth. Analyzing data from earthquakes, she determined that the heart of the planet is a solid inner core. Her discovery overturned the widely accepted theory of the core being fluid, but she trusted her calculations. Strager provides a powerful portrait of Lehmann while guiding readers through the fascinating history of earth science. She tells the story of Lehmann’s life and accomplishments, recounting how she battled inner demons and a mental breakdown and how she overcame pervasive prejudice to forge her own path in a male-dominated scientific world.
available now, hardcover, Oneworld
Imagine a scientist. Lab coat, goggles, a passing resemblance to Albert Einstein? So, most likely it’s a man. However, from radiation to climate change, pulsars to the Earth’s core— women have always stood at the forefront of scientific discovery. A timely addition to the growing global conversation around the future of science—and who gets to shape it—this book is a paradigm-shifting exploration of the scientists who history tried, and failed, to brush under the carpet, and why their stories still matter today.
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Give Village Books Gift Cards Use for in-store AND online purchases! • Perfect for All Ages • No Expiration Date 50 Winter 2026-2027
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Science & Nature A Great Gift The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of Their Lost World by Steve Brusatte
available now, paperback, HarperCollins
“This wonderful book will make the perfect gift for your favorite dinosaur lover! It paints a stunning portrait of the world's most terrifying and awe-inspiring creatures the world has ever seen. Brusatte leaves no fossil unturned (okay maybe quite a few, but there's just a lot of them) as he takes you on a journey from the early Triassic to late Cretaceous and really digs into why it was that dinos will forever be cemented as some of the most wondrous creatures this planet has ever seen. We even get a glimpse into the (spoiler alert) final days of the most iconic dinosaurs, and he explains how it is that we still see them almost any time we step outside.” –Kellen
Master Sun’s Problem: A Mathematical Epic 2,000 Years in the Making
Earthrise: Inside Artemis II, the Groundbreaking Human Mission Into Deep Space
by John Larsen, Jeremy Hansen
available now, hardcover, Hanover Square Press
The historic Artemis II mission was celebrated around the world and broke the record for the farthest distance humans have ever travelled from Earth. A riveting and intimate account of the iconic achievement of Artemis II is a testament to what can be achieved with unity, teamwork, and a bold belief in humanity’s ability to reach for the stars.
Sapiens : A Graphic History, Volume 4-The Age of Revolutions
by Yuval Noah Harari
available in November, paperback, Harper Perennial
This fourth and final installment of the epic graphic adaptation of the internationally bestselling phenomenon follows the revolutions that made modern humanity what it is today, and begs the question: what will we become? In this thrilling conclusion to the graphic adaptation of Harari’s bestselling book, humanity faces its most pressing challenge ever: figuring out how to control an alien intelligence.
by Dana Mackenzie
available now, hardcover, Princeton
Master Sun’s problem—first posed by Sun Bin, a Chinese military strategist and supposed descendent of Sun Tzu—is an ancient strategy question whose elegant simplicity conceals a fiendishly difficult mathematical puzzle. The problem was largely ignored for two thousand years until a college friend of Dana Mackenzie revived it. Here is Mackenzie’s entertaining account of how, to his own amazement, he solved this tantalizing problem. He describes every unexpected twist and turn, and provides advice, explanations, and plenty of examples for math lovers of all ages who want to try their own hand at discovering something new, and reveals how the solution received a vital assist from the readers of The New York Times.
A Great Gift
Tyrant Lizard Queen by Riley Black
available now, hardcover, St. Martin's Press
A strangely emotional tale about my new favorite Tyrannosaurus Rex, Snaggletooth (sorry Jurassic Park). This book chronicles a significant portion of the colossal theropod's life, from birth to her entrance into motherhood, using the most up to date scientific information. This narrative non-fiction story, combined with the large appendix at the end of the book, helps to weave an incredibly detailed tapestry of the life of the most monstrous and awe-inspiring creature to ever exist. Black also does a wonderful job of including other Cretaceous details that left me wanting to learn so much more about that period. –Kellen
National Geographic The Photo Ark: Animals of Earth by Joel Sartore available now, hardcover, Disney Publishing Group
“These pages show beautiful photography of our planet's variety of life that is a great gift for any curious mind or animal lover! The Photo Ark program was started with the heart to inspire education to protect wildlife and support conservation efforts and has photographed over 18,000 species across the world! WOW!" –Courtney
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Winter 2026-2027
51
Let's Play! Remonstered! The Monsters
Connections:
Find the Common Threads in 100+ Puzzles of Wit and Wordplay
edited by The New York Times
available now, hardcover, Authors Equity
Whether you're skilled at spotting patterns or enjoy thinking about words, Connections provides a joyful brain workout with its unique blend of wordplay and logic for puzzlers of every skill level. With a beautifully designed lay-flat format perfect for marking up, Connections provides a quick but rewarding mental challenge and meaningful moments of…well, connection (or competition) with friends and family.
Know What They’re Doing
by Keith Ammann
available now, hardcover, Gallery Books
Keith Ammann lightens the DM’s burden by helping them understand their monster’s approach to combat and develop battle plans before their session begins. In this highly anticipated revision of the widely praised fifth edition D&D reference guide, every monster’s tactics are updated to reflect changes to their stat blocks and accompanied by tips to help DMs prepare the battlefield, choose allies and minions, and take their combat scenes in exciting, unexpected directions.
A Great Gift Druids of Edora
designed by Stefan Feld and published by Alea "In Druids of Edora, the latest game from famed designer Stefan Feld, players take the role of druid masters charting a path through an expansive and treacherous forest. Your goal is to have the greatest influence throughout the forest's sanctuaries by the end of the game. But in order to accomplish this you must strategically plan your path from one sanctuary to the next, making smart use of herbs and potions, and managing your provisions. This is an approachable and very fun game with lots of replay value and beautiful components. I highly recommended it for families and groups of friends who love grappling with a complex but rewarding puzzle." –Braden
Entertaining This Holiday Season? Try Our History Mystery
Puzzle Hunts! Tis' the season to try fun new things and we offer an experience we think you'll enjoy— escape room style challenges that you solve throughout the store. 52
Winter 2026-2027
A Great Gift Puzzles "I believe in the gift of puzzles. To me, they are the perfect present. Whether you are an extrovert or an introvert, a puzzle is a great way to share time with family and friends or to take a moment for yourself and relax in quiet contemplation. From 26 pieces to 2000, our puzzles can accommodate any age or interest. Fine Arts to feature films; vibrant colors to faded parchment. A puzzle is a beautiful way to express one's interests or beliefs. Have a merry holiday and happy puzzling!" –Damon
There are unique challenges at both our Fairhaven and Lynden locations. Free to play—just ask a bookseller to get you started. Once you've solved both of those, you're eligible to try your hand at a third challenge! Completed entries are added to frequent drawings for fun prizes. Note: the in-store challenges take an average of 45-60 minutes to solve and while kids can absolutely join in, the puzzles have a level of difficulty intended for ages 12+. Building Community One Book at a Time
Life Lessons
Health
Psychology
Floored:
A Woman’s Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage by Dr. Sara Reardon
available in December, paperback, Park Row
A definitive guide to the pelvic floor, including tips and resources on maintaining pelvic health at every stage from menstruation to menopause, written by a doctor of pelvic floor physical therapy. Dr. Reardon demystifies the complexities of pelvic floor care and provides everything you need to ensure your pelvic well-being.
How to Be Less Useful: The Joy of Inefficiency by Priyanka Mattoo
available in November, hardcover, Knopf
Did you know karaoke can cure a stomachache? Or that Paddington Bear is a stealth lifestyle guru? Or that nobody actually asked you to do that labor-intensive thing you begrudgingly did? With self-deprecating humor, devastating insight, and bracing honesty, Priyanka shows us how to step out of the grind as a friend, as a partner, even as a parent, and welcome joy back into our lives without burning it all down.
Psychology Journey: The Year that Changes Everything: 365 Daily Reflections to Build Self-Awareness and Inner Peace
Meditations on Mindfulness with a Bear Named Pooh
available in November, hardcover, Harmony
available now, hardcover, Hyperion Avenue
A year-long guide to awareness, reflection, and personal growth with deep intention from #1 New York Times bestselling author, Time 100 Creator, meditator, and modern poet Yung Pueblo, one of today’s brightest lights in self-healing and compassion. Yung Pueblo’s Journey is just that—a uniquely accessible and actionable inspirational journey filled with words that heal and wisdom that lasts.
Artfully designed and illustrated throughout, A Walk in the Wood is the centerpiece of any Pooh lover's collection, just in time for the longbeloved bear’s one hundredth anniversary. Inside, you’ll find simple stories with clearly stated goals and easy-to-follow exercises that provide all the tools you’ll need to take the first step, or to continue on your journey toward a quieter and calmer way of living.
Business
Philosphy
by Yung Pueblo
Real Wealth: Make Money Work for You
by Tyler Gardner
available in December, hardcover, W.W. Norton
When Tyler Gardner first became a financial advisor, he hoped to help clients become confident in managing their own money. He soon realized that the industry cared more about commissions than education. Fed up, he began posting informational videos of honest financial education. Drawing on vivid stories from two decades as an educator and financial advisor, Gardner helps you define your priority, understand your portfolio, minimize your risk in volatile markets, and set you on a path to create and navigate greater wealth.
Spirituality
A Walk in the Wood: by Dr. Joseph Parent and Nancy Parent
Everything You Need to Know: How Philosophy Can Set You Free
by Matthew Stewart
available in November, hardcover, W.W. Norton
In this sweeping new history of philosophy told in six short chapters and accompanied by lively and funny illustrations, one of our most acclaimed and stimulating writers eviscerates icons and picks some clear favorites. Bravely but not recklessly, Stewart weaves major Eastern and Western traditions into a single global story reaching back to prehistory. Along the way, he offers brisk and persuasive interpretations of key philosophical subdisciplines such as metaphysics, philosophy of mind, epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy.
New Year's SALE
20% OFF Storewide
December 31 & January 1 Two Days Only! Some restrictions apply
Village Books and Paper Dreams - Fairhaven & Lynden FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
53
children’s literature conference 2027
Bellingham, WA
Join Village Books for a day of amazing Children’s Literature!
Saturday, February 27
This annual conference is a fun-filled day of learning and celebrating children and young adult literature including author and illustrator presentations, book sales, autographs, and a question-and-answer panel.
Featuring Authors & Illustrators:
Join Us!
Alan GRATZ
The bestselling author of more than twenty books for young readers.
Corinna LUYKEN Award-winning author and illustrator.
Leah JOHNSON Award-winning author of books for children and young adults.
Jasmine WARGA Bestselling Newbery-honor winning author of middle grade novels.
Registration Open NOW! 54 Winter 2026-2027
Go to WACLC.com Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
YOUNG READERS Their Families & Educators
Picture Books
A Forest, A Family, A Harbor, A Home
Little Witch Hazel: A Year
by Nikki McClure
available now, hardcover, Norton Young Readers
in the Forest - Gift Edition
Popular paper-cut artist and author Nikki McClure is back with a book of gratitude about our home and our home around us. Gorgeously handcrafted, rooted in the nature and landscape of the Northwest, and threaded with the experience of child—and parenthood, A Forest, A Family, A Harbor, A Home is a rich and deeply felt meditation on the intimacy of home, the wonder of the world, and the magic of discovery.
by Phoebe Wahl
available now, hardcover, Tundra Books
From the award-winning local authorillustrator Phoebe Wahl, this gorgeous new gift edition has a redesigned cover, ribbon bookmark, and is beautifully bound with stenciled edge. This celebration of the seasons, nature, and life is a perfect gift for young readers and readers young at heart.
Just Added! Join us in welcoming All NIKKI MCCLURE Ages Saturday, November 28, 3pm
The Paper Girl
by Caryl Lewis, illustrated by Kanako Abe available now, hardcover, Frances Lincoln Ltd
at Village Books in Fairhaven
The paper girl literally folds herself into different shapes and objects in an attempt to please everyone in her village. Yet, there is always a complaint. She wonders, “‘Will I ever be enough?’” —how do you find your own voice and the shape of who you want to be? The Paper Girl will have you questioning what your own boundaries are and how do you stand up for yourself. –Kat
Don't miss this special reading and paper cutting demonstration!
Free to Attend!
Register to save your seat at
VILLAGEBOOKS.COM
See more all ages events on page 59.
A Great Gift Diary of a Wombat
by Jackie French, illustrated by Bruce Whatley
Este Año (Books That Sing / Libros que cantan)
available now, paperback, Clarion Books
by Sonia De Los Santos, illustrated by Emily Mendoza available in December, hardcover, Norton Young Readers
Este Año reflects on a year’s happiness and heartache while looking to the year ahead, reflecting Latin Grammy–nominated artist Sonia De Los Santos’s signature spirit and joy. This moving bilingual English-Spanish picture book is complemented by Emily Mendoza’s vibrant artwork to create an unforgettable celebration of hope, family, and new beginnings.
Shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com Thank You for Shopping Local
“This is one of my favorite picture books of all time! A perfect gift for any kids who enjoy animals and silly yet realistic stories (if wombats could write a diary anyways). With laugh-out-loud deadpan humor, this perfect readaloud paints a believable self-portrait of a wombat who gains some new human neighbors—and discovers the joy of carrots!” –Caitriona
We know the world is full of choices. Thank you for choosing us! Winter 2026-2027
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Great Gifts
1, 2, 3 Salish Sea:
A Pacific Northwest Counting Book
Story Cards
by Nikki McClure
“Story cards are an original way to fill a few moments, spark a creative thought, and are just fun to use. Each card has a prompt on it (illustrated or not) to get the storytelling juices flowing. Personally, I love the illustrated cards–pick three cards at random and create a new story with the illustrations. I always had a box on hand in the classroom (and maybe I have them as an Auntie activity too)!“ –Kat
available now, board book, Blue Star Press
“1, 2, 3 Salish Sea is a distinctly Pacific Northwest picture book. It is a dreamy showcase of Nikki McClure's signature papercut scenes and calming watercolor landscapes. Enjoy the meditative journey from 1 to 10 while visiting with our banana slug, and nudibranch friends.” –Rae Nikki McClure will share her newest book at Village Books in Fairhaven November 28 at 3pm!
Styles & selection will vary
Unique and Adorable Plushies "The selection of plushies that you can choose from here are cute, unique, and bound to warm anyone's heart just looking at them! You like sushi? We have a plushie for that. Miss sitting round a campfire on a cool summer night? We have a plushie for that too!" –Ashley
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 firefighters! Friendly dogs! Dinosaurs, music, and now a bilingual option! See page 36 for a line-up of the fun and varied story times taking place at our Lynden store.
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Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
Holiday Celebrations Picture & Activity Book
Pop Up Board Book - In Spanish!
Hanukkah Is Here!
Noche de Reyes / Three Kings' Night
A Hanukkah Countdown illustrated by Madison Safer
by Oriol García Molsosa illustrated by Christian Inaraja,
available now, hardcover, Chronicle Books
Celebrate the eight nights of Hanukkah with this keepsake countdown book. Each flap on the cover reveals a clue to one of the activities featured inside—including a recipe for delicious homemade latkes, instructions for crafting a pasta menorah, silly holiday jokes to share, a retelling of the Hanukkah story, and more. This inviting, fun-filled volume features eight chapters, one for each night, packed with festive activities that honor longstanding Jewish traditions and are perfect for building your own to share together year after year. Ages 5+
available now, board book, Combe Editorial
Open this pop-up book and enter the night of the Three Wise Men. Abre este libro desplegable y adéntrate en la noche de los Reyes Magos. Ages 3-5
Kanoni's Kwanzaa by Hope Anita Smith, illustrated by Bea Jackson
available now, hardcover, Christy Ottaviano Books
By a two-time Coretta Scott King Award recipient, this festive picture book celebrates the culture, community, and family at the heart of Kwanzaa’s seven principles through lyrical poems full of holiday warmth. Ages 5-9
Folklore
Christmas Stories From Around The World: Winter Myths and Festive Folk Tales
by Rachel Elliot, illustrated by Michelle Carlos
Activity Book
available now, hardcover, Arcturus
Capybara Christmas Cuties Cozy Coloring Book
This beautifully illustrated treasury contains 15 heartwarming holiday stories that will delight children of all ages. Showcasing a varied selection of traditional tales from around the world, including such well-loved classics as "The Little Fir Tree" from Germany, "Anansi and Sorel" from Jamaica, and "Little Gretchen and the Wooden Shoe" from the US, this book makes a wonderful present and deserves a place on the bookshelf of every child. Ages 7-11
available now, Scholastic
I’m obsessed with this capybara coloring book and also love having a good coloring book to snuggle up with while binging my fav holiday movies! Ages 8-12 –Kendra
Graphic Novel
The Mysterious Reindeer:
Namaste, Santa
by Rahul Chaturvedi, illustrated by Sunita Balsara
An Advent Novel
by Natacha Godeau, illustrated by Tristan Gion
available now, hardcover, Kids Can Press
This is definitely a quintessential immigrant story with a delightful Christmas twist! The illustrations offer a realistic depiction of what life is like for a child in a new country while introducing different types of holiday traditions. Ages 9-12
available now, paperback, Simon & Schuster
A boy’s holiday gets disrupted by a strange creature lurking around his family’s reindeer farm in this highly illustrated middle grade mystery told in an exciting advent calendar format, with chapter-a-day reading making it a well-paced and anticipation-filled experience! Ages 7-10
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Don't Forget Your Favorite Teachers and Support Staff! FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
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Snowy Day Favorites
The Voice of the Snow! by Yuko Ohnari, illustrated by Koshiro Hata, translated by Emily Balistrieri
Henri and Miko:
available now, hardcover, Red Comet Press
I really love picture books with onomatopoeic text and this one especially because it celebrates snow! This adorable story honors the sounds and silence of winter and is a lovely addition to any story time! Ages 4-7 – Kendra
Transportation
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❄
Kendra's
Winter in Bosk Olivette
by Rebecca Green
available now, hardcover, Tundra Books
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Make Tracks: Snow
This series of picture books depicting the different seasons is quickly becoming one of my favorites! And it includes so much: recipes, activities, and cross-section gate fold illustrations & more. It’s time to cozy up with a new book! Ages 4-8 –Kendra
illustrated by Johnny Dyrander available now, board book, Nosey Crow
Board Book
There are many transportation books out there but I have never seen one that is just about winter vehicles! The addition of interactive parts help with coordination and play! –Kendra
A Great Gift
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Non-Fiction
Song of the Cedars:
Recognizing 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
"An amazing gift for anyone! It really is a beautiful book illustrating the rights of nature. It depicts the fascinating flora, fauna and fungi of Los Cedros Cloud Forest with a panoramic scene. On the cover, you’ll find six names: five of those are the names of the human people who have been to Los Cedros Cloud Forest and vowed to do all they could to help protect it. The sixth name is the forest's own. The forest is considered the co-creator of this literary work which sets a striking precedent for asserting the rights of nature, and all the royalties from sales of the book will be used to support the protection of Los Cedros in the future." –Kendra
In The Kitchen We Really Like Cooking Slop! The Elephant & Piggie Cookbook
by Cher Willems and Mo Willems
available now, hardcover, Union Square Kids
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Mo Willems and debut cookbook author Cher Willems comes a do-together Elephant & Piggie family cookbook with 50 yummy recipes including breakfasts, snacks, soups and stews, mains, and desserts! Perfect for Mo Willem’s fans and for foodies small & tall! Ages 5+
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Historical Graphic Novels The Web of War: A World War II Tale - Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales #14 by Nathan Hale
available in November, hardcover, Abrams
Just in time for holiday gift-giving, the newest installment of Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales series is here! In the summer of 1944, the Allied forces carried out the largest seaborne invasion in military history. American, British, and Canadian soldiers took to the skies and the sand, bombarding the beaches of Normandy, France in the famous operation known as D-Day. In The Web of War, history is in your hands! Pick your path and unravel the thrilling, shocking, gruesome, and TRUE stories of the second World War in this all-new hazardous tale.
Richard Scarry's Busy, Busy Cookbook: Fun and Simple Recipes for Chefs of All Ages
by Richard Scarry available in November, hardcover, Ten Speed
Bring the beloved characters from Richard Scarry's busy, busy world into your kitchen with the twenty easy, hands-on recipes for chefs of all ages in this officially licensed, family-friendly cookbook. Packed with Scarry’s iconic, full-color illustrations, this is the perfect introduction to cooking for young readers and a nostalgic keepsake for generations of Richard Scarry fans.
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
Fun for the Whole Family Author Events at Village Books in Fairhaven • Free to Attend!
Author & Illustrator
Th Inventor The of Stripes
Stephanie Peirce & Christen Mattix
What happens when you find yourself riding a tiger? In this book, you will find gentle advice to consider if that happens to you. Wear your own stripes! A book for all ages! Saturday, November 7, 3pm
Cynthia Sink Sunday, November 22, 3pm BONUS! New Cynthia will also join Megan Velthuizen Date! us at Story Time in Fairhaven on
Tuesday, Mrs. Diggley and Her Red Clay Pots November 10, 11am.
Come meet both the author AND illustrator of this adorable new picture book. Experience a thoughtful, heartwarming tale about navigating change and discovering treasures brought to life with enchanting illustrations!
Story and Sing-along!
Deb Halliday and Hannah Fleischman Saturday, January 30, 3pm
Fox and Moon Join us for a special musical storytime with author Deb Halliday! She will introduce her charming new board book filled with warmth, wonder, and the magic of childhood imagination. She will be joined by her daughter Bellingham-based singer/songwriter Hannah Fleishman, for a reading and family sing-along.
A Special Lunar New Year Kids Event!
Karla Sy
Sunday, January 31, 3pm Two sisters, two cool picture books, double the fun!
Strong As a Lion Thank You for Shopping Local
Stephanie Sy
Authors and sisters Stephanie Ellen Sy and Karla Sy will be reading from their books as well as leading kids in a special craft activity!
The Magnificent Banyan and the Green Tong Lau Winter 2026-2027
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This holiday season Send local Gift Cards Shop local & earn prizes Keep your dollars here
Sign up, Learn more & Earn Prizes! 60
Winter 2026-2027
Building Community One Book at a Time
Middle Grade Titles An Octopus Named Houdini
Socks & Secret Quests
by Zana Fraillon, illustrated by Corinna Luyken
Wandering Shop Series by Triona Murphy, illustrated by James Firnhaber
available in November, hardcover, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
available now, paperback, Atheneum Books for Young Readers
A likeable and cozy read that is perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli. This was full of whimsy and magic and felt like a big hug for my fantasy fueled soul. Its perfect for kids who enjoy magic, adventure or crafting and who likes to root for a gang of young heroes! –Kendra
Odder meets Growing Home in this tender and insightful illustrated middle grade novel in verse about an octopus named Houdini, her unexpected friendship with the aquarium owner’s daughter, and her deep yearning to return to the sea. " A deeply empathic love letter to interspecies friendship, to freedom, and, above all, to octopuses." – Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
Brittle Magic
Trunk No. 3
by Kate O'Shaughnessy
by Allie Millington
available now, hardcover, Random House Children's Books
available now, hardcover, Feiwel & Friends
A beautiful illustration of friendship discovered through magical trunks! Ever since I was a little girl, I've loved writing letters to my loved ones. Reading uniquely quirky characters exchanges back and forth had me nostalgic for childhood. It's a great reminder that everyone desires to be seen, and our written words have meaning. The story is perfectly matched with a steaming cup of tea to deeply warm the heart. –Courtney
Everyone in the Brittle family has a magical talent—except Shiloh. But she’s determined to unlock her own greatness in this charmingly quirky novel about family and forgiveness from Newbery Honor winner Kate O’Shaughnessy. “A tale of stubborn secrets, homespun magic, and the courage it takes to face difficult truths . . . Lingers with the same warmth and comfort of something delicious just pulled from the oven.”—Ingrid Law, Newbery Honor winner for Savvy
Books: Get Curious
Celebrate Children's Books
During Children's Book Week—November 9-15, 2026—and Beyond!
Daniel Nayeri
Event Canceled
in conversation with Sarah Hawley
Sunday, November 8, 6pm at Sehome High School 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. Tickets include a copy of This is a Door—available now! Don't miss out. FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
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Congratulations to 2026 Summer Reading Challenge Participant Marika Keen Marika's entry was selected at random from the over 175 participants in our kids summer reading challenge this year. Marika and Karen Rast, the librarian at Lynden Christian Elementary School enjoyed shopping together for books to be added to their library with the $100 gift certificate Marika won for her school. Yay!
Congratulations also to
Kate Larocque Kate is the winner of a $50 VBPD gift card. Her completed Summer Reading Bingo card was pulled from over 70 participants—the largest number of summer reading Book Bingo readers to date! Thanks to EVERYONE for your participation—we love seeing what titles are keeping you up at night. Congratulations, again to Kate. Happy Shopping!
Top Notch Titles Check out our display of award-winners and staff picks for young readers - always great reading selections!
2026 Newbery Medal -All the Blues in the Sky by Renée Watson Out in paperback–January, 2027
Caldecott Medal –Fireworks illustrated by Cátia Chien, written by Matthew Burgess 62 Winter 2026-2027
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!
November 30 • December 28 • January 25 February 22 - at Village Books in Fairhaven Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
Thank You for Shopping Local
Winter 2026-2027
63
Young Adult Reads Get in the Spirit with these Fun and Light Holiday Reads A Holiday Romance
Light Up My Life A Holiday Novel by Kasie West
available now, paperback, Scholastic Inc.
This season, sparks will fly... Romeo & Juliet meets cozy Christmas rom-com in this delectable new novel from beloved author Kasie West. What happens when the son and daughter of two rival families—both competing for the best decorated house this holiday—fall in love? Perfect for fans of Fake Skating and Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice!
A Holiday Romance
A Knight Before Christmas by Cara Stout
A Holiday Mystery
It's Christmas Crime! An Advent Romance
by Anouk Filippini
available now, paperback, Simon & Schuster
Get ready for this cozy holiday murder mystery! A perfect addition to your holiday season especially with its Parisian setting and delicious-sounding recipes! This is a perfect fit for fans of The Great British Bake Off! –Kendra
Mystery AND Romance
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Murder
available now, paperback, Avon
by Ally Carter
'Twas the night before Christmas, and cameras were rolling.But behind the scenes, for Knight Garrick was Juliet falling. . . . A dating show leads to real romance behind the cameras in this paperback original from the author of Enchanted to Meet You, perfect for fans of Lynn Painter, Jenny Han, and fairytale happily ever afters.
available now, paperback, Avon
Escape Into a Good Fantasy The Queen of the Spirit Woods by Sharon Choe
available in November, hardcover, Atheneum Books for Young Readers
This lush historical fantasy is based on Korean folktales and true events. Filled with the magic of the spirit world effortlessly woven together with a tale of political intrigue, this tale of a common (well, except for all the spirits) kitchen maid and the royalty who her path keeps crossing with is a gem of a novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat! –Caitriona
My Unfamiliar by Mara Rutherford
available in December, hardcover, St. Martin's
Perfect for fans of Allison Saft and Sarah Beth Durst,a grumpy mage and a familiar matchmaker navigate their magical connection in Mara Rutherford’s newest cozy fantasy. "Perfectly, deliciously fantastical.” –Laini Taylor, bestselling author of Daughter of Smoke & Bone
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Winter 2026-2027
A billionaire’s grandson and the housekeeper’s daughter square off in this cat-and-mouse holiday romance-mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year.
The Siren's Kiss by Leslie Vedder
available in November, hardcover, Amulet Books
I don't often read fantasy, but when it's got a gorgeous cover and a lesbian rivals-tolovers arc between a pirate and a mermaid, I am finishing the story in less than two days. A fast-paced, action-packed read that still lets the characters explore their grief in ways that feel authentic and develop a romance that is sweetly satisfying. –Lillian
The Lodge
Enjoy the Thrill
by Natasha Preston available in December, paperback, Delacorte Press
Isolation is deadly . . . especially when the killer is already in the cabin. #1 New York Times bestselling author Natasha Preston is back with another twisted tale of icy isolation, deadly secrets, and pulse-pounding twists!
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.
What Rough Beast
Salt Water Blood
available now, hardcover, HarperCollins
available in November, hardcover, Sarah Barley Books
What Rough Beast follows a small squad of three teens navigating a strange and unpredictable adventure following the discovery of an egg at an animal sanctuary. It delves into scarily real, present, and evergrowing issues around consent, poverty, and social pressure. I enjoyed the depth of each character, felt for and with them, and I'm looking forward to hopefully reading it again following its full release this October! –Milo, age 15
Salt Water Blood is a gripping blend of fantasy and murder mystery which follows the story of Moe, a girl who has the ability to hear the ocean’s thoughts. Following her quest to prove her brother's innocence after he was found on the beach with his girlfriend’s blood on his hands—and no memory of the night before. This book was full of twists and turns that were impossible to see coming. –Maggie, 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.
When the World Was Happy
by Mindy McGinnis
by Manuia Heinrich
YA RC .
.
.
.
by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
available now, hardcover, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
When the World Was Happy shows the highs and lows of a whole city recovering from a school shooting. It focuses on CheChe, a cheerful gay boy whose world turns upside down when two guys with guns storm his school. This read is very emotional. It shows the importance of friendship, family, and love. –Charlotte, age 15
Night of Madness by Ryan Douglas
available now, hardcover, Simon Pulse
The Night of Madness is one of the most thrilling books I've ever read. I couldn't put it down and every twist and turn was more shocking than the next. When five influencers enter a horror movie competition, they think all they need to do is get through the night and endure "extreme terrors" to win $100,000. But not all is as it seems and soon the contestants realize they don't need to just survive the terror but survive the real danger of the night and the people behind it. This book had me reading until the last page. If you like horror movies and the other books like Killer House Party by Lily Anderson, you'll love this book. –Aine, age 15
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Enjoy additional reviews on our Y.A.R.C. web page at villagebooks. comand on display at Village Books in Fairhaven!
Winter 2026-2027
65
Discover
Toys That Teach
For the Curious Kid in All of Us
2027 Calendars Are Here!
66 Winter 2026-2027
Select from an amazing variety of styles— something for all tastes and ages!
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
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!
Nov. 17 • Dec. 15 • Jan. 19 • Feb. 16 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 page 25 for upcoming classes and go to whatcom.edu for more information, prices, and to register.
Chuckanut Writers Thank You for Shopping Local
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!
Nov. 30 • Dec. 28 • Jan. 25 • Feb. 22
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!
Nov. 30 • Dec. 28 • Jan. 25 • Feb. 22 Winter 2026-2027
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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. 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 November 16 • December 7 & 21 January 4 & 18 • February 1 & 15
Community Connections Community Book Group Partnerships
Bellingham Symphony Orchestra Book Group Village Books has partnered with 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, 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 Book Discussion at Village Books • Wednesday, January 27, 6pm –Pastoral by Andre Alexis Pair the book with the fundraising concert Breaking Dawn on February 7, 3pm at Mount Baker Theatre
Find concert tickets and details at mountbakertheatre.com
Register
Local Book Groups
YOUR
-Open to the Public-
Book Group
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!
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!
Looking for More Reading Recommendations? We've Got You Covered. •Sign up for our Book Group e-Newsletter Sent monthly, this e-newsletter highlights book club picks and staff picks.
•Check out the In-store Book Group Wall Imitation is the highest form of flattery! Stop in and see what other local book groups are reading.
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Winter 2026-2027
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.
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.
• November 15* –Heartwood by Amity Gaige *Special Date! • December 13 –Mink River by Brian Doyle • January 10 –Title TBA • February 14 –I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger
Breathe Well, Be Well
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.
• November 11 –The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune • December 9 Come ready to recommend a title to be considered as a 2027 group read! • January & February: Winter Hiatus - no meetings • March 10 –I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger
VB Reads...
Unless otherwise noted, authors do not attend book groups.
Final Two Meetings!
Activists & Democracy Lovers
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.
Join us at 4pm on the third Thursday of November and December in the Fairhaven VB Readings Gallery. This book club 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.
• November 16 –The Oxygen Advantage:
• November 19 –Daring Greatly:
Simple, Scientifically Proven Breathing Techniques to Help You by Patrick McKeown
VB Reads...
Watch villagebooks.com for additional reading selections
Armchair Historians Book lovers, you have heard the old adage "Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it!" Well, here is your chance to prepare yourself for the future. Join the Village Books Armchair Historians Book Group—"understanding the past!" We meet the third Monday of every month from 6pm to 7:30pm in the Readings Gallery in Fairhaven to chat, discuss, and dissect the most current and interesting history being written. We will cover all eras and topics in our quest to "know history". Join us!
VB Reads...
How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
by Brené Brown • December 17 –How to Close a Camp: Dispatches from the Fight Against Immigrant Detention by John Washington
VB Reads...
3rd Wednesdays
Lynden Front Streeters • November 18, 7pm at Village Books in Lynden –The Living by Annie Dillard See page 34 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 FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Winter 2026-2027
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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 Bellingham Chamber Music’s fifth season pays tribute to author Leah Broad’s book Quartet: How Four Women Challenged the Musical World. Village Books will be on hand at each concert with musical books for sale, including Quartet! This book tracks the stories of four British female composers: Ethel Smyth (1858–1944), Rebecca Clarke (1886–1979), Dorothy Howell (1898–1982), and Doreen Carwithen (1922–2003), all icons in their time that were then lost to history. Join us as we celebrate the voices of these lost giants.
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! 70 Winter 2026-2027
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 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!
November 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!
At Village Books In Lynden Saturday, November 7, 5pm TODD WARGER –The Mountain Runners: America’s First Adventure Race, 1911-1913 An endurance competition unlike any in their day or likely any since—the Mount Baker Marathons were one of the greatest athletic achievements of the time, yet today few know of their existence. Local historian Todd Warger is a 2013 Emmy Award nominee for the documentary film about these competitions. Can't make it to Lynden? Catch Todd at Village Books in Fairhaven on January 16 at 6pm.
Sunday, November 8, noon-5pm OPEN BOOK: A Festival For Readers Ferndale Events Center 5715 Barrett Rd, Ferndale, WA 98248
It’s back! Celebrate readers, writers and bookish enthusiasm at this FREE EVENT for all ages. Mainstage events include: • EMMA PATTEE -author of the critically acclaimed bestseller Tilt. • DONNA BARBA HIGUERA -New York Times bestselling author of middle-grade and picturebooks that reinvent history, folklore and life experience including Last Cuentista • And SO much more. See WCLS.org for details.
Thank You for Shopping Local
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 Sunday, November 8, 6pm at Sehome High School
DANIEL NAYERI
in conversation with Sarah Hawley
–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 that 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. SORRY, this event has been canceled.
Monday, November 9, 6pm Storytelling Across Cultures with MONONA WALI –Sutra Americana TESS GALLAGHER –Surrounded by Weasels GARY COPELAND LILLEY –Spirit in the Dark –Ravens on the Moaners Bench Join us for a special event that celebrates storytelling across cultures! Acclaimed authors Monona Wali, Tess Gallagher, and Gary Copeland Lilley will discuss their works as well their Indian, Irish, and Southern Black roots. Grab a friend and don't miss out.
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.
Wednesday, November 11, 6pm LAURA KALPAKIAN –Undesirable:
The Vietnam War 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.
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Thursday, November 12, 6pm POLLY DUGAN
Literature
LIVE!
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.
Friday, November 13, 6pm ERIKA SHEPARD –Fireflies in Paradise
A powerful exploration of the lives of two widows who make their way in the patriarchal world of the 1870s amidst the backdrop of the unforgiving Kansas prairie and American expansion across the frontier West. Gripping historical fiction—don't miss out!
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.
At Village Books IN LYNDEN Saturday, November 14, 4pm GREG BOOS –Smuggler
Smuggler is the truth-is-stranger-thanfiction story of how a quaint bed-and-breakfast on the Canadian border became the epicenter of debates about refugee protections and violent immigration policing inside the United States. Join us in welcoming the lawyer in the middle of it all!
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—at both our Fairhaven AND Lynden stores. Don't miss out!
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 installment of her beloved J.P. Beaumont series! In this twisty, fastpaced 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?
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Thursday, November 19, 6pm NIKI DESAUTELS –For the Love of Bats: Exploring Nature at Night with the West’s Flying Mammals Bat advocate Niki Desautels celebrates the astonishing diversity of bats, revealing their unique behaviors, habitats, and physiology while making a compelling case for stewardship and conservation. In For the Love of Bats, she shares a vivid, place-based exploration of the West’s only flying mammals, blending natural history with in-the-field experiences.
Friday, November 20, 7pm
at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal
The Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring LUCY TAN in conversation with Kiik Araki Kawaguchi
–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
Join us as we welcome this Seattle-based writer, poet, editor, and longtime independent teacher of writing as she discusses the art and science of craft in her two new books—a memoir explore the spaces we live in, the spaces we go to in our imagination, and the colors that surround us, plus the third edition of her popular comprehensive writing guide that has been a game changer for thousands of writers.
A Free Event for ALL AGES! Sunday, November 22, 3pm author CYNTHIA SINK and illustrator MEGAN VELTHUIZEN –Mrs. Diggley and her Red Clay Pots
New Date!
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. Cynthia will also join us to share this fun new picture book at a special story time in Fairhaven on Tuesday, November 10 at 11am.
Building Community One Book at a Time
Monday, November 23 Pre-Cyber Monday Online SALE
Shopping online? Shop early and shop local! Visit villagebooks.com on this pre-Cyber Monday to make your purchases and save 20%! Look for details on our website the day of the sale. Orders will be processed in the order they are received. Depending on volume, some short delays may occur. Thanks for your support this holiday season.
Tuesday, November 24, 6pm DONALD ANTENEN –Music and the Destruction of Music
Music and the Destruction of Music, Antenen’s debut collection of Borges-inspired micro-fictions, blends history, philosophy, magic, and the mundane into a delightful mix. Each vignette is a window into a world that is almost like our world but not quite. Perfect for reading a little at a time in waiting rooms, on your boat, or before bed. These very short stories will stick with you long after you close the book. Donald Antenen is the founder of the Fairhaven Program, where he teaches literature, mathematics, and Ancient Greek to teenagers from Whatcom and Skagit counties.
Thursday, November 26 HAPPY THANKSGIVING – Stores Closed
We're thankful for YOU! Eat well, then curl up with a good book or get out and enjoy our gorgeous surroundings. We'll see you on Friday!
Saturday, November 28 Small Business Saturday, Winterfest, and Indies First
This is a day dedicated to supporting the local businesses that help create jobs, boost the economy, and preserve neighborhoods. Thank you for your continuous support of the locally owned businesses in your community. We know you have choices, thanks for choosing us. This Saturday is also the kick-off to Fairhaven's Winterfest activities. Happy Holidays!
Monday, November 30 Cyber Monday Online SALE
You can shop online and still shop local! Make your purchases from villagebooks.com during this second and final Cyber Monday sale and save 20%! Find the discount code on our website during sale days. Online shopping only. Sales will be processed in order of receipt—some delays are expected. Thanks for your support this holiday season.
December Wednesday, December 2, 6pm Group Reading –On Resilience: Stories of Climate Adaptation Across Washington’s Landscapes Anthology
Join us for a special anthology reading of On Resilience: Stories of Climate Adaptation Across Washington’s Landscapes featuring contributors from the anthology including Washington State Poet Laureate, Derek Sheffield! He'll be joined by moderator Leslie Wharton and contributors Luther Allen, Julian Ankney, Jessica Gigot, Amelia Díaz Ettinger, Jon Culp, Kathleen Byrd, Ann Hursey, Roger Gilman, and DJ Lee.
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
Literature
LIVE!
Unless otherwise noted, events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven Thursday, December 3, 6pm INEZ RAY –Buzzard
Inez Ray delivers a ferocious dystopian debut that traces the possible trajectory of our current political and technological reality—and the power of our deepest human bonds in her novel, Buzzard. In 2086, corporations are monitoring fertility. Abortion is illegal. And the last woman alive who can perform the procedure is in hiding. Seven years ago, midwife Mae Bastet was arrested for infanticide in the fractious Southwest Territory for providing health care to women in need. She was torn from her sons and sent to Buzzard—a private prison deep in the Sonoran Desert, run by the paramilitary corporation Obsityan.
Book Launch! 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! Princess Kenna of Blood House has decided who to support as the next ruler of Mistei, but one wrong move shatters the fragile truce of the Accord and plunges the kingdom into civil war. In the chaos, hundreds of faeries lie dead, and Kenna and the two rebel princes are captured. Pre-orders include exclusive artwork (while supplies last) so be sure to buy the book when registering for the event. Watch for her at our January Radio Hour as well!
Friday, December 25 Our Stores are CLOSED
Enjoy the day—we'll see you on the 26th!
Village Books & Paper Dreams Annual New Year's
Celebrate
STOREWIDE
SALE
SAVE 20% New Year’s Eve
Thursday, December 31 Friday, January 1– Happy New Year! Keep turning for more events
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Literature
January 2027 Friday, January 1 STOREWIDE SALE!
Ring in the New Year with SAVINGS! Stop by either our Fairhaven or Lynden locations on the final day of the annual Village Books and Paper Dreams storewide New Year's SALE! Enjoy 20% OFF STOREWIDE! In store only. Some restrictions apply —ask your bookseller for details.
Sunday, January 3, 10am-3pm Resolutions for Writers at Village Books in Fairhaven
Need a boost to your writing in the New Year? Join local writing instructors for a day of intentional goal-setting, generative writing, and planning for a productive and joyful new year in your writing life. Lunch is included. Registration is required and space is limited for this always popular annual event. Find more details and registration at www. whatcom.edu starting November 13. See pages 24-25 for additional writing opportunities.
Tuesday, January 5 Village Books & Paper Dreams in FAIRHAVEN will be CLOSED FOR INVENTORY
We'll be busy counting in Fairhaven but Village Books and Paper Dreams in Lynden will remain open 10am-5pm. Our Fairhaven store will reopen Wednesday at 9am. Meanwhile, browse and shop 24/7 at villagebooks.com.
Thursday, January 7 Village Books & Paper Dreams in LYNDEN CLOSED FOR INVENTORY
Yep, another day of counting—this time at our Lynden store! Don't to worry, Village Books and Paper Dreams in Fairhaven will remain open 9am-8pm. Thanks for your patience!
LIVE!
Thursday, January 7, 6pm TED LEONHART
–The Work Beneath the Work: For People Who Built Their Strength From Struggle—And Haven’t Named It Yet Some leaders walk into a room and instantly know what’s happening beneath the surface. They sense the fear, read the unspoken dynamics, and hold the group together without anyone quite knowing how. This capacity isn’t taught in business school. It develops earlier— in households where reading the room wasn’t a professional skill but a survival strategy.
Monday, January 11, 10pm-12:30am ACOTAR MIDNIGHT RELEASE PARTY for A Court of Forgotten Melody Don your regal garb and join us for a Masquerade Ball in celebration of the release of A Court of Forgotten Melody! Attendees will enjoy themed games, prizes, and refreshments! At midnight, after the final waltz, we will gather to distribute books to attendees! All tickets include a copy of the book. Don't delay!
Tuesday, January 12, 6pm EVENING OF MINDFULNESS with Carolyn McCarthy
Interested in learning to be kinder to yourself when you're suffering? Wish you had better tools for handling difficult emotions? Want to be able to motivate yourself with encouragement rather than criticism and start to leave that harsh inner-critical voice behind? Start here! Join local mindfulness and self-compassion teacher Carolyn McCarthy on a 1-hour journey to becoming a friend to yourself.
Village Books and Paper Dreams
DELIVERED! Subscribe and Stay In the Know
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 Winter 2026-2027
Open Daily - See villagebooks.com for store hours
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! Wednesday, January 13, 6pm JULIAN BRAVE NOISECAT –We Survived the Night
Julian Brave NoiseCat’s childhood was rich with culture and contradictions. When his Secwépemc and St’at’imc father, an artist haunted by a turbulent past, abandoned the family, NoiseCat and his non-Native mother were embraced by the urban Native community in Oakland, California, as well as by family on the Canim Lake Indian Reserve in British Columbia. Drawing from five years of on-the-ground reporting, We Survived the Night paints a profound and unforgettable portrait of contemporary Indigenous life, alongside an intimate and deeply powerful reckoning between a father and a son. A soulful, formally daring, and indelible work from an important new voice.
Thursday, January 14, 6pm MARIANNE RAFTER –Dancing on the Brink of the World: A Novel of Alta California
Alta, California comes alive in this sweeping historical fiction novel of love, survival, and the conflicts that shaped early California! A mix of facts and imagination inspired by the life of Captain William A. Richardson and his family, who lived in Alta, California, this speculative historical novel intertwines their story with that of three diverse societies—Native American, Mexican, and American—who, sparked by greed for land, engaged in bloody clashes and a war that helped shape California into what it is today.
Friday, January 15, 6pm SANDY LAWRENCE –Fossil Dragon:
Energy Systems–The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly! What if a novel could entertain you—and change the way you think about the future of our planet? In Fossil Dragon, the first book in S.W. “Sandy” Lawrence’s Trilogy of Dragons, climate science, energy technology, relationships, and intrigue collide as Jake Harper and Abbey London confront questions that are both deeply personal and urgently global. Readers are calling it “a master class in climate and energy wrapped in a compelling story—thought-provoking, urgent, and ultimately hopeful about our planet’s future.”
Weekly Storytimes
&
In Fairhaven Tuesdays, 11am In Lynden - Saturdays, 11am Unless otherwise noted, events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven 1200 11th St., Bellingham, WA 98225
Thank You for Shopping Local
Literature
LIVE!
Saturday, January 16, 6pm TODD WARGER –The Mountain Runners: America’s First Adventure Race, 1911-1913 Missed the event in Lynden? Join us in welcoming author Todd Warger to Fairhaven! An endurance competition unlike any in their day or likely any since—the legendary Mount Baker Marathons were one of the greatest athletic achievements of the time, yet today few know of their existence. Held in 1911, 1912, and 1913, the races pushed individual athletes from Bellingham to the summit! Join us as local historian, author and filmmaker Todd Warger rescues the Mount Baker Marathons from obscurity, utilizing descendants’ oral histories, correspondence, government and news reports, and more, to tell the forgotten tale of these mountain runners.
Sunday, January 17, 6pm MALLINA WILSON –All in a Moment:
Innocence Lost, A Mother’s Murder, and the Power of Forgiveness
Mallina Wilson is a survivor. Raised in the hippie culture of the 1970s, her world came to a screeching halt in 1982. That was when 15-year-old Mallina's mother walked out the door, never to return. Two years later, when her mother's remains were found, she would be listed as the first victim of the infamous Green River Killer. In this dramatic collection of life "moments" told in her own words, Mallina recounts many of the events of her life leading up to and after her mother's murder: some touching, some tumultuous, and some traumatic. With remarkable optimism, she shares the journey that brought her to a pivotal place of forgiveness and compassion, and a desire to share her message of hope with others.
Thursday, January 21, 6pm KAREN POLINSKY –Dungeness
Feel the sea mist and run through the verdant forests on the Strait of Juan de Fuca and be immersed in stories filled with true events and people, mixed with vivid S’Klallam tales and lore. Spanning the latter half of the nineteenth century, this coming-of-age novel unfolds in the form of a historian’s notebook. Protagonist and narrator Millie Langlie (daughter of a S’Klallam maiden and a Norwegian mariner) discovers how knowledge of the past can teach us to love, forgive, and forge a new path.
Friday, January 22, 6pm LIBBIE GRANT –The Ended World
Join us for bestselling author Libbie Grant (also known as Olivia Hawker) as she discusses her new novel steeped in philosophy, theology, and technology. An ex-nun, an atheist programmer, and a resurrected medieval saint are brought together in an unlikely partnership when an artificial intelligence gains sentience and pleads for their help. Galiot Press called it "A novel for our times," and Bruce Holsinger (author of Culpability) called it "A dazzling work of imagination." Keep turning for more events
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Literature
Sunday, January 24, 6pm KRISTIN JUDD –Witches Three
Join us for author Kristin Judd, as she discusses her new novel, Witches Three, where a magical legacy, both a curse and a gift, haunts three women across centuries. With lyrical prose and captivating characters, this riveting tale is a story of love, courage, and motherhood, as three women across history test the bonds of magic running through them all.
Tuesday, January 26, 6pm PAMELA EUGENIA –My Color
In My Color, Pamela's life unfolds as an adopted child on a Kansas farm, where her innocent existence is disrupted by a harsh encounter with racism. At school, a classmate's use of a racial slur forces her to confront the complexities of her identity. Pamela's journey is marked by resilience as she navigates the internal conflict of wanting acceptance while honoring her true self. Ultimately, My Color is a poignant memoir that explores themes of self-discovery, gratitude, and the transformative power of embracing one's identity in a world that often demands conformity.
Thursday, January 28, 6pm Chuckanut Bay Distillery
CHUCKANUT RADIO HOUR 20th Anniversary Celebration featuring JULIE TRIMINGHAM –The Heart Has Its Reasons and Its Own Velocity AND SARAH HAWLEY –Warrior of the Shards
Join us as we celebrate TWENTY YEARS of the Chuckanut Radio Hour —Village Books very own radio variety show. Enjoy local music, fun skits, humor, poetry, and literature at this live taping. We will feature TWO amazing locals at this show— author and filmmaker Julie Trimingham who will share her new novel, a deeply felt story steeped in miracles and motherhood, AND bestelling author Sarah Hawley with the finale of her Shards of Magic series. Tickets $10—available now at villagebooks.com. Seating is limited.
Friday, January 29, 6pm MARY B. HANSEN –Blood in the Archives
What happens when you can't trust a government record? Would you put your life at risk for your beliefs? Mary B. Hansen takes us on a journey of secrets, lies, and murder in her new mystery novel, Blood in the Archives. City of Portland archivist Della Waters feels like she is finally living the life she always wanted until a betrayal by her friend and fellow archivist, Randall, causes things to take a dangerous turn. Soon, Della is caught in a web of lies and fraud that she might not escape from. Join us for a night of mystery!
Do you want a signed edition of a book but can’t make it to the author's presentation? No problem! Pre-purchase the title and request a signature or personalization.
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Winter 2026-2027
LIVE!
A Free Kid’s Event! KIDS Board Book & Singalong Saturday, January 30, 3pm DEB HALLIDAY and HANAH FLEISCHMAN –Fox and Moon
Follow a curious little fox as he explores, plays, and wanders beneath the comforting glow of his friend, the moon. Fox and Moon is a charming board book filled with warmth, wonder, and the magic of childhood imagination. Join us for a fun evening as Deb Halliday leads us along a sing-a-long of Fox and Moon.
A Special Lunar New Year Kids Event - Free to Attend! Sunday, January 31, KARLA SY KIDS –Strong as a Lion and STEPHANIE ELLEN SY –The Magnificent Banyan and the Green Tong Lau
Join us for a special Lunar New Years Children’s Book Event! Authors and sisters Stephanie Ellen Sy and Karla Sy will be reading from their books as well as leading kids along a special craft activity! The Magnificent Banyan and the Green Tong Lau is a modern fable beautifully illustrated in watercolor about the residents of a Hong Kong apartment whose lives are seemingly disrupted by a hardy banyan tree that begins to grow on the building’s walls. Strong as a Lion teaches us that although they may not feel strong enough, they possess the strength to impact their communities.
February Monday, February 1, 6pm JOHN FREAL –Kaleidoscopes of Hope: Postcards from the Prophet Margins
Join us in welcoming this author and former Blaine educator as he shares his latest book. Known for his collections of poetry focusing on themes of inspiration, resilience, perspective, and connexions—you don't want to miss his latest reflections.
Thursday, February 11, 6pm YOAV LITVIN –Wired to Steal: Zionism and the Shaping of the Western Mind From the bestselling author of Ten Myths About Israel and a renowned neuroscientist comes a groundbreaking new book that delves into the psyche of settler colonialism and its far-reaching repercussions on history, identity, and global politics. Drawing on decades of research in neuroscience and extensive historical scholarship, Wired to Steal combines vivid storytelling, clear science, and deep moral urgency to reveal the playbook of settler colonialism, and to offer a roadmap for dismantling it.
Building Community One Book at a Time
Spring Nature of Writing Event
Literature
Wednesday, February 17, 6pm JESSICA GIGOT and TELE AADSON, –Cascadia Works:
LIVE!
Tend, Gather, Harvest, Restore
Join us and North Cascades Institute for a special anthology reading to kick off the Spring Nature of Writing Speaker Series! Cascadia Works includes poetry and prose by more than 120 contributors who work the land and sea of the Cascadia bioregion. Edited by Tele Aadsen and Jessica Gigot, a Southeast Alaska salmon troller and a Skagit Valley farmer, respectively, it features a diverse range of voices, from orchard workers, farmers, commercial fishers, and field biologists to kelp harvesters, herring protectors, and watershed restorationists
Thursday, February 18, 6pm REGINA WEI –Mongol Healer
Join us for author Regina Wei as she takes us on a literary journey from the unforgiving steppes to modern Beijing in Mongol Healer. Mongol Healer explores trauma, resilience, the courage it takes to keep one’s heart open—and reveals how easily power can disguise itself as authority.
Saturday, February 20, 6pm LINDA CONROY –Many Windows
Join us for local author Linda Conroy as she explores the human condition and the natural world in her new book of poetry. Many Windows represent places, sights, and points of view that show us where we are, where we’ve been and where we might go. We can welcome windows with their varied views, or we can choose to close them while we use our imagination and creativity to reach for what we need.
Sunday, February 21, 2pm Whatcom WRITES Anthology Group Reading at Village Books in Fairhaven Whatcom WRITES invites writers of all ages and experience levels to explore a theme inspired by the Whatcom READS book each year. Top entries are selected for publication in the Whatcom WRITES anthology and contributors are invited to read at public presentations. Join us as select 2027 contributors share their submissions based on the theme Light in the Dark, drawn from I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger in this first of three readings.
Wednesday, February 24, 6pm MATTHEW SULLIVAN –The Midnight Game
When a body is discovered after a Catholic parish's Bingo Night, a Denver detective must confront the best and worst of his tight-knit community, as well as a looming threat from his past, in this arresting new novel from the beloved author of Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore. At once an immersive, page-turning mystery and a profound meditation on class, community and the morally gray area between right and wrong, The Midnight Game is a colorful and unforgettable new novel, perfect for fans of Tana French, Dennis Lehane, and Stephen King.
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! Thursday, February 25, 7pm THE CHUCKANUT RADIO HOUR at Chuckanut Bay Distillery
featuring DAVID GUTERSON –Evelyn in Transit
Join us for the live taping of our popular radio show at this fun downtown venue. Our featured guest will be the bestselling author David Guterson. Explore a tale of self-discovery, chance encounters, and the winding journey toward living an authentic life in his latest novel, Evelyn in Transit! Tickets $10–available now!
Saturday, February 27 Venue TBA
2027 CHILDREN'S LITERATURE CONFERENCE
children’s
literature
conference
Village Books is thrilled to host four award-winning children's and young adult book authors and illustrators at the 2027 Children's Literature Conference! We're excted to announe that Alan Gratz, Corinna Luyken, Leah Johnson, and Jasmine Varga will be joining us for the day. The conference brings together teachers, librarians, readers, and writers to celebrate children and young adult literature. This day of learning and celebration will include author and illustrator presentations, book sales, autographs, and a question-and-answer panel. See waclc.com for details and registration information.
At Village Books in LYNDEN Sunday, February 28, 2pm Whatcom WRITES Anthology Group Reading Local writers of all ages and experience levels explored the theme Light in the Dark, inspired by I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger. Top entries were selected for publication in the latest Whatcom WRITES Anthology. Join us as select 2027 contributors share their submissions at this second of three Whatcom WRITES readings.
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. Keep turning for more events
FH: 360.671.2626 • LY: 360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com
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Mark Your Calendars
Literature
LIVE!
Saturday, March 6, 2pm at Allied Arts
1213 Cornwall Ave,Downtown Bellingham, WA
Whatcom WRITES Anthology Group Reading Join us as select contributors to the 2027 Whatcom WRITES anthology share their submissions based on the theme Light in the Dark, drawn from I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger at this final reading. While you're at the gallery, enjoy the Whatcom READS art exhibit, local art inspired by the 2027 read!
2027
Events with the Author LEIF ENGER Thursday, March 11,11am-12:30pm Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Dr #2, Blaine, WA
Book Discussion with LEIF ENGER
Join us at the Blaine Boating Center for a lively book discussion with this year's Whatcom READS author Leif Enger, as we discuss his book I Cheefully Refuse. Seating is limited, registration is required. This event is free —registration is required. See whatcomreads.org.
Thursday, March 11, 7pm Bellingham Cruise Terminal
The Chuckanut Radio Hour
featuring LEIF ENGER –I Cheerfully Refuse
Join us for the live taping of the Chuckanut Radio Hour—the always entertaining radio variety show produced by Village Books and featuring humor, skits, local music, and great literature. Whatcom READS author Leif Enger will be the special guest at the March show. Seating is limited so buy your tickets today! $10–available now at villagebooks.com.
Friday, March 12, 7pm at Mount Baker Theatre
An Evening with LEIF ENGER
Join us at beautiful Mount Baker Theatre for the premiere Whatcom READS event featuring author Leif Enger. Bushwick Book Club Northwest will open the event with original music inspired by the book, both composed and performed by local musicians. After a brief intermission, Leif Enger will talk about I Cheerfully Refuse and share insights into his writing process. Enger will answer pre-submitted audience questions and sign books at the event. The 2028 Whatcom READS title will also be announced. This event is free—tickets are required. Guests can order up to 2 tickets.
Saturday, March 13, 6pm DEBORAH SANTANA –Loving the Fire:
Choosing Me, Finding Freedom In this powerful new memoir, author and activist Deborah Santana shares her journey of spiritual awakening shaped by a rich life of family, partnership, and purpose. Born to pioneering interracial couple Jo Frances and Saunders King, Deborah learned early the strength of identity, resilience, and love. Later married to legendary musician Carlos Santana, she embraced many meaningful roles—daughter, wife, mother, and supporter—before recognizing that it was time to fully step into her own voice and calling.
Thursday, April 7 , 7pm CHUCKANUT RADIO HOUR Venue TBA
featuring CASKEY RUSSELL in conversation with GARTH STEIN –The Eagle in the Mountain and–The Door on the Sea
Join us for the live taping of the Village Books radio variety show featuring humor, poetry, live music, and great literature! Our April featured author will be Bellingham's own Caskey Russell as he introduces the sequel to his epic fantasy novel, The Door on the Sea. He will be in conversation with the bestselling author of The Art of Racing in the Rain, Garth Stein@ Tickets $10 - available now.
Unless otherwise noted, events take place at Village Books in Fairhaven
See the Events Calendars at
villagebooks.com for More!
You'll find additional events, details, registration information, and the featured titles—available to order! The Village Books Literature Live Speaker Series could not exist without your support. Thanks for attending the readings and for purchasing the featured titles!
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Winter 2026-2027
79
1200 11th St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.671.2626 villagebooks.com
Whatcom County’s Favorite Bookstore since 1980 In Historic Fairhaven & Downtown Lynden
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 106 BLAINE, WA