The perfect book for a book discussion is one that's not too easy, not too hard, that will hold the interest of a diverse group of readers and will also inspire a lively discussion. For additional book club resources check out CPL's Book Club in a Bag kits.

The true memoirs of Little K by Adrienne Sharp

The tiger's wife: a novel by Téa Obreht

Stiff [kit]: the curious lives of human cadavers by Mary Roach — This unusual and thought-provoking book club selection covers topics from medicinal mummies to cadaver models for crash-test dummies. The writer presents a well-researched, lively discussion of offbeat ways that the dead have served the living and treats medical as well as ethical issues.

Lord of misrule: a novel by Jaimy Gordon

Just kids: from Brooklyn to the Chelsea Hotel : a life of art and friendship by Patti Smith

Lighthead by Terrance Hayes

Mockingbird: (mok'ing-bûrd) by Kathryn Erskine

Loss, of a loved one or pet, can be very difficult for children to understand and deal with. Here are some books that can help parents and caregivers with the task of helping children through the process of grieving that special someone.

I will remember you: what to do when someone you love dies: a guidebook through grief for teens by Laura Dower

150 facts about grieving children by Erin Linn

On Friday January 8, the guest on Oprah will be Julie Metz, author of Perfection: a Memoir of Betrayal and Renewal. On a January afternoon, her life changes forever. As Julie begins to put her life back together after her tragic loss of her husband of 12 years, she learned of his affairs. Determined to know the truth and come to terms with it, she confronts each of the women. This is a story of starting over; not from a place of perfection, but peace.