In a delightful weekly feature from The Bookies Bookstore, located in Denver, the spotlight is on three engaging reads: two novels that intricately weave stories around art and a nostalgic graphic novel perfect for both kids and adults.
First up is “My Friends” by Fredrik Backman, set to release in May 2025. This poignant novel draws readers into the world of Louisa, an aspiring artist who becomes captivated by three tiny figures depicted in a renowned painting. While many may overlook these figures, Louisa’s keen eye and curiosity lead her on a remarkable journey.
The narrative oscillates between Louisa’s modern-day quest and a backdrop 25 years earlier, where a group of teens finds solace and friendship on an abandoned pier during a transformative summer. Through laughter, rebellion, and heartfelt connections, they create a stunning piece of art that will intertwine with Louisa’s life. As she delves deeper into the origins of the painting, Louisa discovers that the path of friendship and art often leads to unexpected places.
Judy Carroll, a dedicated bookseller at The Bookies Bookstore, shares her enthusiasm for Backman’s storytelling. She highlights the quirky characters and the depth of emotion present in the novel, praising Louisa’s journey as a beautiful exploration of art’s influence on personal growth and relationships.
Next, readers can explore “When the Tides Held the Moon” by Venessa Vida Kelley, scheduled for release in April 2025. This historical novel presents the life of Benigno “Benny” Caldera, a young Boricua blacksmith in 1910s New York City, who grapples with his identity as an artist. Benny creates a mesmerizing ironwork tank for Luna Park, an iconic Coney Island playground, but his creation has a secret purpose—a cage for a merman named Río, captured from the East River.
As Benny and Río’s friendship blossoms into a profound love, Benny faces a moral dilemma: to free Río, he must confront the reality of his own circumstances. The bond between the two transcends their different worlds, revealing deep themes of love, freedom, and sacrifice.
Event and marketing coordinator, Krystal Murphy, expresses her admiration for Kelley’s work, noting the rich historical context and the vibrant cast of characters. She likens the emotional depth of Benny’s story to that of “The Song of Achilles,” illustrating the dynamics of love in the face of adversity while highlighting Kelley’s artistic talent as the illustrator of her own book.
Finally, for younger readers and nostalgic adults alike, Raina Telgemeier’s graphic novel “Smile” is a must-read. Published in November 2020, this engaging story chronicles Raina’s traumatic experience of losing her two front teeth in sixth grade, accompanied by the challenges of adolescence such as braces, surgery, and navigating friendships.
Combining humor and relatable experiences, Raina’s illustrations vividly portray her struggles, making it a hit among tweens and teens while resonating with adults reflecting on their own childhoods. The graphic novel is not just an entertaining read, but a heartfelt exploration of personal growth and resilience.
Bess Maher, the event liaison at The Bookies Bookstore, highly recommends “Smile” as a perfect choice for a long journey or a cozy evening read. With Telgemeier’s ability to craft an engaging narrative, “Smile” is a testament to the journey of growing up and finding one’s place amongst peers.
These selections from The Bookies Bookstore encapsulate the profound connections between art, friendship, and personal journeys. Whether it’s Backman’s intricate storytelling, Kelley’s imaginative world blending history and myth, or Telgemeier’s relatable graphic novel, each book offers a unique perspective on the transformative power of creativity and connection.
With May 2025 and April 2025 releases on the horizon, and the established success of “Smile,” these recommendations are sure to resonate with readers of all ages. For those looking to explore stories infused with art and personal growth, The Bookies Bookstore’s selections are an excellent place to start.
image source from：coloradosun
