*This blogpost was created by Garima Shah (she/her, Junior) and Elizabeth Whimore (she/her, Sophomore), two Student Library Engagement Ambassadors at the University of Michigan
More about Garima: Hello! I am a rising junior studying Computer Science. I have a passion for reading and encouraging others to read as well. I can’t wait to showcase all the amazing resources, staff, and faculty the University of Michigan libraries have.
In my free time I enjoy dancing, baking, and traveling.
More about Elizabeth: Hi! I am a rising sophomore studying BCN (Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience) and RC Drama. I really enjoy encouraging students, faculty, and staff to access the resources and events at the University of Michigan libraries that are readily available for everyone! Summer 2022 I have the opportunity to help promote and add to our growing collection. When I have free time, I enjoy reading (makes sense), painting, and spending time with family and friends.
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Happy Pride Month! Diverse representation of LGBTQ+ folks is extremely important, and at the University of Michigan, we want to foster a community of welcoming and acceptance all year round. As parades and festivals continue, you can celebrate or expose yourself to LGBTQ+ characters, authors, and themes in the comfort of your own home through a book! Happy reading!
The Monster of Elendhaven by Jennifer Giesbrecht
Johann, a being who has protruded from the endless sea, takes on the role of antagonizing the citizens of Elendhaven. He proclaims himself as a monster, and discovers his inhuman abilities. On a fateful day, he meets Herr Leikenbloom, who has his own agenda concerning the people of Elendhaven and sees Johann as an invaluable asset. As these two ambitious individuals tap into their humanity and monstrosity, secrets are discovered, people are manipulated, and Johann realizes his purpose in the grand scheme of the world. Is he really a monster?
I picked up this book by accident, but I was enthralled by Giesbrecht’s poetic use of mood, suspense, and tension. Johann and Herr Leikenbloom’s dichotomy is dark, suspicious, and genius. Once you start reading, you don’t want to stop– no worries, it’s only 160 pages.
The Weight of The Stars by K. Ancrum
Ryann, who dreams in vain of outer space adventures, meets Alexandria, who wishes to hear back from her astronaut mother who volunteered for a one-way trip. The two bond after Alexandria has her arm broken, but Alexandria starts to lose hope in a response. It becomes Ryann’s job to uplift and urge her to continue to wait. Waiting together in solemn silence turns into waiting together in budding friendship as the universe bonds them together beyond the stars.
I will warn you beforehand that this novel is a tearjerker, but Ancrum’s prose had me hanging on every word while blinking back tears. The relationship between Ryann and Alexandria and their struggle with hopes and dreams makes you reflective but grateful after the end of this novel.