Do you ever wonder about library staff love to read? Every month, QPL staff will be sharing their top 5 all-time favorite books. This month, Eric has chosen these books as his top 5 favorite books.
Solo Leveling - DUBU(REDICE STUDIO) and Hye Young Im
This action packed series is amazing! I couldn't put it down and can't wait for the eighth and final book to come out. Solo Leveling was my first introduction to Manwha and the genre has not disappointed. These books are fast paced and read like an graphic novel adaptation of an RPG video game. Dungeons? Magical weapons? Skill upgrades? It’s got it all. Plus, there's a new anime adaptation to enjoy!
Slouching Towards Utopia: An Economic History of the Twentieth Century - Bradford DeLong
Have you ever thought about the economic throughline between pre-industrialized America and the Great Financial Crisis of the 2010s? For me, it's a no; however, that's what Brad DeLong set out to do with Slouching Towards Utopia. I listened to the audiobook and was fascinated by how the author highlights the unprecedented rise in living standards around the world during that time period. Truly fascinating.
There is no right way to meditate - Yumi Sakugawa
A great introduction to meditation as a practice. The concise language and fun illustrations deliver a short but impactful guide to starting off with meditation. I wish this was the first book I read related to meditation, but am glad I stumbled across it!
In This Economy?: How Money & Markets Really Work – Kyla Scanlon
Does anybody actually know how the US economy works? Well, Kyla Scanlon does and highlights how we are all part of it. Scanlon breaks down this incredibly complicated topic and explains how every transaction we make contributes to the economy. Published in early 2024, this book also provides a great snapshot of the "vibecession" of the past couple of years. This book includes quirky illustrations that really help educate readers.
The Blade Itself – Joe Abercrombie
I need to read this series again – It's been way too long! The Blade Itself is a gritty fantasy epic that plays with tropes of the genre. All the characters are deeply flawed and barely likeable, but add so much drama to the story. Abercrombie explores the tension between old magic systems and the advancement of human technology, which is always a compelling draw for me. This book and series doesn't shy away from gore, so keep that in mind if you pick it up for a read.