Collection: Shop Woman

The poems in this collection consider the "slow wreckage" that comes with advancing years. As well as considering the travails of an aging individual, Barbara Crooker uses a wider lens to examine the damages inflicted by society and its failings. And through it all, or despite it all, Crooker finds beauty and hope in the physical world. In Slow Wreckage, she writes with candor, irony, and ultimately, love.

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY
Janet Maslin, The New York Times - St. Louis Post-Dispatch

When Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bill Dedman noticed in 2009 a grand home for sale, unoccupied for nearly sixty years, he stumbled through a surprising portal into American history. Empty Mansions is a rich mystery of wealth and loss, connecting the Gilded Age opulence of the nineteenth century with a twenty-first-century battle over a $300 million inheritance. At its heart is a reclusive heiress named Huguette Clark, a woman so secretive that, at the time of her death at age 104, no new photograph of her had been seen in decades. Though she owned palatial homes in California, New York, and Connecticut, why had she lived for twenty years in a simple hospital room, despite being in excellent health? Why were her valuables being sold off? Was she in control of her fortune, or controlled by those managing her money?

Dedman has collaborated with Huguette Clark's cousin, Paul Clark Newell, Jr., one of the few relatives to have frequent conversations with her. Dedman and Newell tell a fairy tale in reverse: the bright, talented daughter, born into a family of extreme wealth and privilege, who secrets herself away from the outside world.

Huguette was the daughter of self-made copper industrialist W. A. Clark, nearly as rich as Rockefeller in his day, a controversial senator, railroad builder, and founder of Las Vegas. She grew up in the largest house in New York City, a remarkable dwelling with 121 rooms for a family of four. She owned paintings by Degas and Renoir, a world-renowned Stradivarius violin, a vast collection of antique dolls. But wanting more than treasures, she devoted her wealth to buying gifts for friends and strangers alike, to quietly pursuing her own work as an artist, and to guarding the privacy she valued above all else.

The Clark family story spans nearly all of American history in three generations, from a log cabin in Pennsylvania to mining camps in the Montana gold rush, from backdoor politics in Washington to a distress call from an elegant Fifth Avenue apartment. The same Huguette who was touched by the terror attacks of 9/11 held a ticket nine decades earlier for a first-class stateroom on the second voyage of the Titanic.

Empty Mansions reveals a complex portrait of the mysterious Huguette and her intimate circle. We meet her extravagant father, her publicity-shy mother, her star-crossed sister, her French boyfriend, her nurse who received more than $30 million in gifts, and the relatives fighting to inherit Huguette's copper fortune. Richly illustrated with more than seventy photographs, Empty Mansions is an enthralling story of an eccentric of the highest order, a last jewel of the Gilded Age who lived life on her own terms.

Praise for Empty Mansions

"An amazing story of profligate wealth . . . an outsized tale of rags-to-riches prosperity."--The New York Times

"An evocative and rollicking read, part social history, part hothouse mystery, part grand guignol."--The Daily Beast

"Fascinating . . . [a] haunting true-life tale."--People

"One of those incredible stories that you didn't even know existed. It filled a void."--Jon Stewart, The Daily Show

"Thrilling . . . deliciously scandalous."--Publishers Weekly (starred review)

A young Black girl builds confidence in her engineering skills as she helps an injured crow fly again in this vibrant, STEAM-infused tale of determination, ingenuity, and friendship.

Izzy Gizmo's inventions are marvelous, magnificent...and often malfunction. Despite the fact that she loves to invent, it never seems to work out in her favor. But when she finds a crow with a broken wing, she has to help!

Izzy tries again and again to build the crow a new pair of wings, but nothing is working. Can Izzy overcome her failures? Or is her friend destined to live as a crow who can't fly?

Author Pip Jones tells an inspiring story of creativity and perseverance in the face of failure while spotlighting friendship and intergenerational relationships. Bright, zany art from the acclaimed Sara Ogilvie adds to the zeal.

★ If Robyn Carr and Melinda Leigh had a book-baby, Hart's Ridge would be it. Join Kay Bratt in this small town mystery series with cases to solve, and a small-town deputy determined to do it.

When five-year-old Molly walks into a gas station on the outskirts of town, alone and barely speaking, one sheriff's deputy is determined to reunite her with her missing mother.

Nestled gently in the Blue Ridge mountains, Hart's Ridge is a small and yet undiscovered quaint town. That is until you dig a little deeper and learn that no matter how perfect things look, every town has its secrets. Taylor Gray has lived there since she was a kid and has clawed her way out of poverty, foster care, and then the police academy to reach her dream of being in law enforcement.

However, the townspeople aren't the only ones that she is committed to serve and protect. She's also the unofficial caretaker of her father and adult sisters, a family fractured by tragedy and barely keeping it together. Her role is heavy and rarely appreciated, but she'll stop at nothing to try to piece them back together one day.

The mother of a young girl is missing. Time is of the essence and Taylor plunges into the investigation, determined to find her and reunite mother and child. When the sheriff brings a familiar face in to take charge, things begin to unravel at a pace hard to keep up with, and what they find is every law enforcement officer's worst nightmare.

Hart's Ridge is a standalone novel and book one of the new Hart's Ridge mystery series, written by Kay Bratt, International Best-Selling Author of Wish Me Home and True To Me.

In this book from the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Anne Frank, the writer whose diary captured the hearts of the public.

Anne Frank was born in Germany to a loving family. But when World War II broke out, Anne and her family had to hide in a secret annex in Amsterdam. Here, Anne wrote her famous diary, describing her belief in people's goodness and her hopes for peace. After the war, her diary captured the hearts of the public and she became one of the most important diarists of the 20th century. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Anne's life.

Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling biography series for kids that explores the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.

This empowering series of books offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover and paperback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. With rewritten text for older children, the treasuries each bring together a multitude of dreamers in a single volume. You can also collect a selection of the books by theme in boxed gift sets. Activity books and a journal provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.

Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!

One out of every three women has a pelvic floor disorder, but nobody is talking about it.

Uncontrolled release of urine, feces, and gas. A visible bulge in your vagina. A cervix that sticks out of your vaginal opening. Sticking your fingers into your vagina or butthole to remove poop. Painful, embarrassing sex. The symptoms of pelvic floor disorders are about as taboo as conversation topics get.

As a woman, you can't afford to be uninformed. Pelvic floor disorders are more common than breast cancer and have a major impact on your quality of life. The biggest risk factors are giving birth and getting old. Do you know what symptoms to watch out for, or what to do about it?

It is time to start talking. Kegels Are Not Going to Fix This takes a look at the burden of pelvic floor disorders from a personal and global perspective. After reading this book, you will understand your pelvic floor and how to care for it. You will be armed with information and language to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with your doctor. You will see that you are not alone.

Pelvic floor disorders are an experience shared by women around the world and throughout human history. Every woman and women's health care provider should read this book.

This engaging series of childhood recollections tells about an ideal school in Tokyo during World War II that combined learning with fun, freedom, and love. This unusual school had old railroad cars for classrooms, and it was run by an extraordinary man-its founder and headmaster, Sosaku Kobayashi--who was a firm believer in freedom of expression and activity.

In real life, the Totto-chan of the book has become one of Japan's most popular television personalities--Tetsuko Kuroyanagi. She attributes her success in life to this wonderful school and its headmaster.

The charm of this account has won the hearts of millions of people of all ages and made this book a runaway bestseller in Japan, with sales hitting the 4.5 million mark in its first year.

Home. . . . That's what Martha's Vineyard is to Annie Sutton now.

After a winter spent writing her latest novel, Annie looks forward to a summer with friends who have become like the family she never had. But then her landlord announces that his grandson will be moving into her cozy Chappaquiddick cottage-and she'll be moving out. Year-round island housing is tough to find at any time; in summer, it's nearly impossible. Shaken by the thought of being forced to leave the people and the community she's grown to love, Annie seeks distraction in the July 4th celebrations-and stumbles upon a young woman who's unconscious on her front lawn . . . and barely alive . . .

Summer on the Vineyard brings not only tourists, but also wealthy families with summer homes-like Fiona Littleton's-and tensions between them and the tight-knit island community often ignite. But when Annie's quick thinking saves Fiona's life, she's surprised to learn that like her, Fiona has no one to lean on. And when Fiona fears that someone wants her dead, Annie cannot walk away. With depleting resources and no home on the horizon, Annie is certain of only one thing: each of them will have to rise to one of life's greatest challenges: feeling at home within themselves . . .

Praise for the previous works of Jean Stone

"Stone's graceful prose, vivid imagery and compassionately drawn characters make this one a standout." -Publishers Weekly

"A very smart and well-written book" -Fresh Fiction

"Jean Stone is a truly gifted writer. I wish I could claim her as a long-lost sister--but I can't. I can merely enjoy her wonderful talent." -Nationally bestselling author Katherine Stone

"Stone is a talented novelist whose elegant prose brings the Martha's Vineyard setting vividly to life. . . . A very good read." -Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

"A wrenching and emotionally complex story. Sometimes, if you are very lucky, you can build a bridge across all obstacles. A very touching read." -RT Book Reviews

New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins crafts an unforgettable story about a sleepy Southern town, two fiercely independent women, and a truly magical friendship.

Sarah Dove is no ordinary bookworm. To her, books have always been more than just objects: they live, they breathe, and sometimes they even speak. When Sarah grows up to become the librarian in her quaint Southern town of Dove Pond, her gift helps place every book in the hands of the perfect reader. Recently, however, the books have been whispering about something out of the ordinary: the arrival of a displaced city girl named Grace Wheeler.

If the books are right, Grace could be the savior that Dove Pond desperately needs. The problem is, Grace wants little to do with the town or its quirky residents--Sarah chief among them. It takes a bit of urging, and the help of an especially wise book, but Grace ultimately embraces the challenge to rescue her charmed new community. In her quest, she discovers the tantalizing promise of new love, the deep strength that comes from having a true friend, and the power of finding just the right book.

"A mesmerizing fusion of the mystical and the everyday" (Susan Andersen, New York Times bestselling author), The Book Charmer is a heartwarming story about the magic of books that feels more than a little magical itself. Prepare to fall under its spell.

"A heartfelt and exciting debut...a wise and honest story of how it feels to be a young woman in search of yourself."--Taylor Jenkins Reid, New York Times bestselling author of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Malibu Rising

The Bookish Life of Nina Hill meets Younger in a heartfelt debut following a young woman who discovers she'll have to ditch the "dream job" and write her own story to find her happy ending.

Meet Nora Hughes--the overworked, underpaid, last bookish assistant standing. At least for now.

When Nora landed an editorial assistant position at Parsons Press, it was her first step towards The Dream Job. Because, honestly, is there anything dreamier than making books for a living? But after five years of lunch orders, finicky authors, and per my last emails, Nora has come to one grand conclusion: Dream Jobs do not exist.

With her life spiraling and the Parsons staff sinking, Nora gets hit with even worse news. Parsons is cutting her already unlivable salary. Unable to afford her rent and without even the novels she once loved as a comfort, Nora decides to moonlight for a rival publisher to make ends meet...and maybe poach some Parsons' authors along the way.

But when Andrew Santos, a bestselling Parsons author no one can afford to lose is thrown into the mix, Nora has to decide where her loyalties lie. Her new Dream Job, ever-optimistic Andrew, or...herself and her future.

Your next book club read touching on mental health, happiness, and the peaks and perils of being a young woman just trying to figure it all out. Nora Hughes is the perfect heroine for anyone looking to get past their own chapter twenty-something and build their storybook life.

"A tender reflection on finding your person while you're still desperately searching for yourself."--KJ Dell'Antonia, New York Times bestselling author of The Chicken Sisters

"A book for book lovers... It's impossible not to root for Nora!"--Jesse Q. Sutanto, National Bestselling author of Dial A for Aunties

2019 SCIBA Book Award Winner for Biography

A Hugo and Locus Award Finalist

Winner of the Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Award

The Los Angeles Times Bestseller

A Thrillist Best Book of the Year

A Book Riot Best Book of 2019

One of Booklist's 10 Best Art Books of the Year

The Lady from the Black Lagoon uncovers the life and work of Milicent Patrick--one of Disney's first female animators and the only woman in history to create one of Hollywood's classic movie monsters

As a teenager, Mallory O'Meara was thrilled to discover that one of her favorite movies, Creature from the Black Lagoon, featured a monster designed by a woman, Milicent Patrick. But for someone who should have been hailed as a pioneer in the genre, there was little information available. For, as O'Meara soon discovered, Patrick's contribution had been claimed by a jealous male colleague, her career had been cut short and she soon after had disappeared from film history. No one even knew if she was still alive.

As a young woman working in the horror film industry, O'Meara set out to right the wrong, and in the process discovered the full, fascinating story of an ambitious, artistic woman ahead of her time. Patrick's contribution to special effects proved to be just the latest chapter in a remarkable, unconventional life, from her youth growing up in the shadow of Hearst Castle, to her career as one of Disney's first female animators. And at last, O'Meara discovered what really had happened to Patrick after The Creature's success, and where she went.

A true-life detective story and a celebration of a forgotten feminist trailblazer, Mallory O'Meara's The Lady from the Black Lagoon establishes Patrick in her rightful place in film history while calling out a Hollywood culture where little has changed since.

Don't miss Mallory O'Meara's upcoming novel, Girly Drinks!

When it comes to love, there's always something cooking.

If Lexi Bellamy had to describe Winsome Cove, she would say the little Cape Cod town is tired and stuck in its ways. Like its men--or at least Sam Knight, the handsome New Englander who irritates the "Midwest nice" right out of the former five-star chef.

Looking for a reset after her ex-fiancé all but ruined her career and reputation, Lexi agrees to spend the summer rebranding Sam's family's run-down restaurant. Yet Lexi faces resistance from Sam with every change. And the best way to keep from bickering...is kissing. Even so, Sam doesn't trust her big-city ways. Can Lexi convince Sam that--like a good surf and turf--they're made for each other?

From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.

Winsome Cove

Book 1: A Cape Cod Summer

This selection, which is drawn from Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Anne Sexton's ten published volumes of poems as well as from representative early and last work, is an ideal introduction to a great American master.

ANNE SEXTON (1928-1974) was an American poet known for her highly personal, confessional verse. A celebrated poet of mid- twentieth century America, Sexton's impressive body of work continues to be widely read and debated by literary scholars and cultural critics alike. Her poetry explored the many paradoxes within human behavior and motivation.

Inspired by the #1 New York Times bestseller She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger, a chapter book series about women who stood up, spoke up and rose up against the odds--including Maria Tallchief!

A 2024 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Book!

In this chapter book biography by award-winning author Christine Day, readers learn about the amazing life of Maria Tallchief--and how she persisted.

Maria Tallchief loved to dance, but was told that she might need to change her Osage name to one that sounded more Russian to make it as a professional ballerina. She refused, and worked hard at dancing her best, becoming America's first prima ballerina. Many famous American ballets were created for Maria!

Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton, black-and-white illustrations throughout, and a list of ways that readers can follow in Maria Tallchief's footsteps and make a difference! A perfect choice for kids who love learning and teachers who want to bring inspiring women into their curriculum.

And don't miss out on the rest of the books in the She Persisted series, featuring so many more women who persisted, including Florence Griffith Joyner, Coretta Scott King, and more!

Praise for She Persisted: Maria Tallchief

"A rich, clear picture of how one iconic Native dancer persisted." --Publishers Weekly

"Inspiringly shows how Maria Tallchief persisted and made her dreams come true." --Kirkus Reviews

An exploration of the pain, self-doubt, and anger that emerge in women's lives, from a leading writer of the Black Arts Movement and the American Poetry Society's 2018 Wallace Stevens Award-winner.

Renowned African-American poet Sonia Sanchez writes of an unfaithful life partner, a brutal rape, the murder of a woman by her granddaughter, the ravages of drugs. Sanchez transforms the unspoken and sometimes violent betrayals of our lives into a liberating vision of connection in emotional redemption, compassion, and self-fulfillment.

There's nothing Ruth Galloway hates more than amateur archaeologists, but when a group of them stumble upon Bronze Age artifacts alongside a dead body, she finds herself thrust into their midst--and into the crosshairs of a string of murders circling ever closer.

Ruth is back as head of archaeology at the University of North Norfolk when a group of local metal detectorists--the so-called Night Hawks--uncovers Bronze Age artifacts on the beach, alongside a recently deceased body, just washed ashore. Not long after, the same detectorists uncover a murder-suicide--a scientist and his wife found at their farmhouse, long thought to be haunted by the Black Shuck, a humongous black dog and a harbinger of death. The further DCI Nelson probes into both cases, the more intertwined they become, and the closer they circle to David Brown, the new lecturer Ruth has recently hired, who seems always to turn up wherever Ruth goes.