Posted in Monthly Book Recommendations, On the Desk..., On The Radar

Dr. G’s Monthly Book Recommendations-September 2023

Fall is upon us and I can’t wait for the leaves to begin falling and changing colors! Getting you ready for the semi-warm days and cool nights! While the days will soon become shorter, there is still time to curl up on your couch, in the local cafe, or even on your balcony!

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

This month I put together a little literary buffet of YA novels, historical fiction, cookbooks, and a few special nods to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month!!

Without further ado, check out this month’s book recommendations below:

  • Thieves’ Gambit ~Kayvion Lewis
  • Salsa Magic ~Letisha Marrero
  • For the Culture: Phenomenal Black Women and Femmes in Food: Interviews, Inspiration, and Recipes ~Klancy Miller
  • Wild Tongues Can’t Be Tamed ~Edited by Saraciea J. Fennell 
  • We Are All So Good At Smiling ~Amber McBride
  • The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store ~James McBride
  • Where the Rhythm Takes You ~ Sarah Dass
  • Let Us Descend ~Jesmyn Ward

Don’t forget to support your local bookstores and libraries!!

And remember you can always go back and check out the previous month’s list and past recommendations in the “Resource” section of the website!

“Wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down.” -Toni Morrison (Song of Solomon)

Posted in Monthly Book Recommendations, Resources

Hispanic Heritage Month-Dr. G’s Bonus Book Recommendations

“We celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions who have inspired others to achieve success.” ~National Hispanic Heritage Month/Library of Congress site

In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th-October 15th), I wanted to offer a bonus list of book recommendations particularly for youth!! Gotta make sure the kids get their list too!! You know Dr. G always has a special place for the youth!!

A phrase that always comes to mind and that will be forever ingrained is the notion that #RepresentationMatters!! Regardless of it is popular culture, school curriculums, hiring practices, and especially the materials that read, everyone should feel as though they can and are represented. As I have noted early on, reading has always been a powerful tool for change and great way to find peace and space/place to belong.

It is so necessary that Black and Brown children/youth are able to visually see their experiences drawn and written. Knowing that they can see themselves lets them know they have value within this world. What better way to do that than through a book!! Many of these stories, as well as others, pay tribute to the author’s cultural background, tell familial and community stories and also play a role in de-stigmatizing existing stereotypes and tropes. Additionally, this visual work can inspire, educate, and motivate the next generation!!

So here is a sample of great reads highlighting Afro/Hispanic/Latinx children to add to your literary collection/bookshelves:

Also, for more information about National Hispanic Heritage Month check out the following links:



~Dr. G