On the shelves - Dec. 2

The following are available for checkout at:

Clovis-Carver Public Library

“Street Freaks” by Terry Brooks begins with a dire call, “go into the Red Zone, go to Street Freaks,” just before Ash’s father disappears and his skyscraper home’s doors explode inward. The Red Zone is the dangerous heart of mega-city Los Angeles; it is a world Ash is forbidden from and one he knows little about. But if he can find Street Freaks, the strangest of aid awaits — human and barely human alike. As Ash is hunted, he must unravel the mystery left behind by his father and discover his role in this new world.

“Lark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Donna Andrews bubbles with hilarious adventure when during the Christmas pageant rehearsal, directed by local Meg Langslow, someone secretly slips a live baby into the manger, a baby connected to a crime that must be stopped. Meanwhile, a mild-mannered accountant is on the run from the office-holding evildoers, stirring up war between Caerphilly and arch rival Clay County. Meg soon realizes she must call on her quirky relatives and friends to help bring everyone together in time for the holidays.

“Blood Sweep” by Steven F. Havill dives into a story set in the boot heel of southwestern New Mexico, where the folks, both good and bad, drop a lot on Undersheriff Guzman’s plate. Her son, in Mexico's crime-ridden Mazatlán, may be a target for scam artists and kidnappers; an uncle, a man she didn't know existed, surfaces in an attempt to mend family ties but leaves a trail of corpses in his wake and escalating events put the life of Sheriff Torrez in jeopardy.

“Life Hacks for Parents” by Dan Marshall offers handy, proven solutions for every mom and dad, novice or seasoned, with simple yet ingenious tricks, shortcuts and ideas to help solve everyday occurrences and annoyances. Covering everything from nifty storage hacks to clever cleaning solutions, egg carton paint palettes to marshmallow ice packs, Marshall shares practical time-saving tips, using materials and techniques that are either already on hand or easily attainable, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family.

“Becoming Lincoln” by William W. Freehling traces the life of an ordinary young man from the Midwest who rose above a staggering number of setbacks and nearly impossible odds. From his tough childhood and on through incantations as a bankrupt with few prospects, a superb lawyer, canny two-party politician, great orator, failed state legislator and losing senatorial candidate, Lincoln became one of our most tested and successful presidents.

“The Instant Pot Holiday Cookbook” by Heather Schlueter provides inspiration for delectable holiday fare, making entertaining less stressful and cleanup a breeze. The 100 easy and creative recipes deliver a little something for everyone — appetizers for all occasions, main dishes to please even the most finicky guest, desserts to die for, cocktails, drinks, delicious ways to use your leftovers and even creative holiday gifts from the kitchen.

— Summaries by library staff