The Grumpy Librarian: Caitlin Goodman tells you what to read
Please note: This article is published as an archive copy from Philadelphia City Paper. My City Paper is not affiliated with Philadelphia City Paper. Philadelphia City Paper was an alternative weekly newspaper in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The last edition was published on October 8, 2015.
Loved: Robin Sloan, Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore
Loved: Karen Russell, Swamplandia!
Didn’t: Jennifer Egan, A Visit from the Goon Squad
This is the cotton candy cupcake of book lists; the Grumpy Librarian’s first instinct is to recommend a tincture of Hemingway and a vigorous tooth brushing. This is probably the first time she’s ever been tempted to suggest reading more Chuck Palahniuk and maybe checking out a CrossFit class or something.
So you like twee adventure novels with wacky characters, a touch of magical realism and the kind of quirky romance that wouldn’t have an embossed cover. The GL will judge you and then recommend Erin Morgenstern’s 2011 fantasy adventure The Night Circus. It’s a bit more “steampunk cosplay” than “whimsical kneesocks,” but it’s not like you need the GL to tell you you’d probably like Miranda July. Now go drink a cup of weird tea and leave the GL to exfoliate with some Dorothy Parker.
Send the Grumpy Librarian two books you like and one you hate and she'll tell you what to read.
