Column: Sherwood Book Corner
The Sherwood Bookstore contributes a monthly column to The Sherwood Sun about cool books and fun events.
By Rebecca Nelson and Adam Bienvenu, for The Sherwood Sun
SHERWOOD, Ore. — Hello there, and welcome to the Sherwood Book Corner, brought to you by the folks at Sherwood Bookstore, Sherwood’s locally owned-and -operated bookstore. Each month we will share some books and events that we’re particularly excited about.
To kick things off, we have a pair of fantasy stories. One, a retelling of a classic tale for children with charming prose and intricate illustrations, the other is the premiere book in a new series by a stellar debut author, full of magical intrigue and schemes within schemes.
We have community events most weeks, including book clubs, writer’s groups, and craft and puzzle nights, all of which are open to the public. One of our most popular events is our monthly Trivia Book Club. This club meets the first Thursday of each month, and is always changing genres from science fiction to classical literature, romance, non-fiction, etc. After spending a bit of time discussing, we then have a round of Trivia based on the text. Currently, we are reading The Wager by David Grann for our meeting on March 5th: you’re more than welcome to join at any time! Be sure to come by the store and talk with our staff to find out more information about all our events.
Rumpelstiltskin Retold by Mac Barnett, Illustrated by Carson Ellis
From the New York Times Bestselling Author of The Three Billy Goats Gruff comes this Tudor-inspired retelling of Rumpelstiltskin. Originally written over two hundred years ago by the Brothers Grimm, the tale follows an unnamed miller’s daughter attempting to stay ahead of a guillotine-happy king by making deals with a trickster. Gorgeously illustrated by local artist Carson Ellis, humor and magic come together as Barnett explores the riddles of where true treasure may be found and the power that lies in a name. Although written for ages 4-7, this easy read is enjoyable for all ages!
Queen of Faces by Petra Lord
In her debut novel, Queen of Faces, Petra Lord introduces readers to the world of Caimor, where bodies may be purchased and identities can be worn, interchangeable like articles of clothing. This luxury, however, is only affordable by the most elite in society.
Trapped inside a decaying male body, Anabelle Gage’s last hope of escape is shattered. She has failed to gain entrance to the esteemed Paragon Academy, where she would have received a new body and formal training for her illusion magic. Faced with death and the slow deterioration of the body she cannot bear to inhabit, Anabelle takes the only option she believes is left: theft. When that desperate choice pulls her into greater danger, she is forced into the shadows of Caimor’s magical underworld to work as an assassin.
Anabelle’s pursuit of a new chassis leads her into risky alliances, forbidden magic, and to experience challenges to her ethics. In each scene, Lord builds a dynamic world where identity is both fluid and controlled, and power always comes at a cost.
If you are looking for a new read that challenges how you view embodiment while enjoying a well-crafted magical system and unexpected friendship, Queen of Faces may be for you! Its engaging storytelling makes it just as enjoyable for adult and young adults readers.
