Kate

Ever feel like a tiny person in an overwhelming, chaotic world? Slinkachu takes that feeling and runs with it in his street art—literally leaving miniature people in everyday situations, scattered throughout major cities. This collection of mini “instillations” is a charming reminder to look for surprises in the most unexpected locations.—Kate

Are you afraid of whole grains? Do natural sweeteners make you tremble? Me, too, and that’s why I’m grateful for Heidi Swanson’s cookbook—a helpful guide through the world of food that is seriously good for you. Her recipes are a love letter to the ingredients she prepares—ones that would have previously intimidated me. This cookbook especially succeeds at opening up the world of whole grains—something we all could use. —Kate

I’ve been slowly working my way through this interpretation of Arthurian legend – the same one that inspired Disney’s “Sword and the Stone.” White’s narrative is whimsical, including a Merlin living chronologically in reverse. The Once and Future King takes you deep into Arthur’s world in a way that manages to be both enjoyable and meaty enough to keep you in for the long haul. -Kate

This was the only thing that could get me out of my reading limbo last year. I know everyone’s seen the movie, and the novel is something special. Bridget’s narration is amusing, to say the least, as she stumbles through the rigmarole of femininity while wondering why she bothers. For a great laugh that’s not as guilty as you think it is, this is my #1 recommendation. -Kate

With the shifting seasons, everything in my fridge screams “SOUP!” Full of vegetarian soup recipes, Love Soup is the answer to my screaming vegetable problem. I’ve especially enjoyed the Deconstructed Hummus Soup, a mix of fresh garbanzos, lots of garlic, and zingy lemony goodness. I already know that this will be my most-used cookbook this winter, and I’ll never have to eat the same soup twice (though I will want to make the hummus soup at least twenty times). —Kate