South End Scoop: Books & More From KCLS — January 2025
The King County Library System (KCLS) and the South Seattle Emerald are teaming up to bring you the "South End Scoop." Dig into this community-centered column each month for great book, music, movie, and event recommendations from your local librarians.
Ring in a new year of reading and self-empowerment with KCLS! Get started with this great selection of books — and a breathtaking film — featuring fresh starts and new beginnings.
January is also a good time to start thinking about preparing your taxes. Pick up or print tax forms at any KCLS library, and get free one-on-one tax help at libraries this tax season.
LIBRARIAN PICKS
Kids (Ages 3–7)
Bear’s Big Idea by Sandra Nickel, illustrated by Il Sung Na
Every day is a new adventure for friends Bear and Fish. Fish is full of ideas for things to do, but when it is Bear’s turn to choose the activity, she spends all night worrying she won’t pick something good and will let down her friend. Young readers will relate to Bear’s anxiety and be reassured that good ideas are sometimes closer than they think, especially with the support of a good friend. Featuring colorful and humorous illustrations by Il Sung Na, this sweet picture book offers an engaging exploration of friendship and creativity.
Kids and Tweens (Ages 8–13)
Gooseberry by Robin Gow
Robin Gow's charming novel is about a young nonbinary person who is looking for family and finds it with a rescue dog. Twelve-year-old B has been through multiple foster homes and is searching for a new name that fits their identity, a home where they feel accepted, and a dog to train. When B’s new foster parents agree to let them adopt feisty Gooseberry, they find out that having their dream dog isn’t what they expected. B and Gooseberry’s parallel journeys of finding home, trust, and belonging are a hopeful reminder that new beginnings can be uncomfortable but also rewarding.
Teens (Ages 14–17)
Lunar New Year Love Story by Gene Luen Yang, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
This beautifully illustrated rom-com follows Vietnamese American teenager Val as she navigates a complicated relationship with love. Misfortune and heartbreak have affected her family for generations — can Val break the cycle? Set against the backdrop of a vibrant and richly detailed Asian American community in Oakland, California, there’s a lot to enjoy beyond the central romance story as Val examines her family history, cultural heritage, and relationships with friends, herself, and her community. Gorgeous artwork brings Val’s community and their traditions to life, especially in the rendering of the lion dancing.
Adults (Ages 18 and older)
Origin directed by Ava DuVernay
Written and directed by Ava DuVernay, Origin is a biographical drama that follows Isabel Wilkerson (movingly portrayed by Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor) as she researches and writes her best-selling book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent. Instead of offering a straightforward adaptation of Wilkerson’s book, DuVernay presents an interesting take on her source material by exploring the personal tragedies that Wilkerson endured while investigating discrimination across the globe and historical case studies from Wilkerson’s research. The results are breathtaking. Available on DVD and streaming on Kanopy.
Recommendations courtesy of KCLS librarian Katy Curtis. Katy is an adult services librarian at the Woodmont and Federal Way 320th Libraries. She enjoys reading science fiction and fantasy, preferably curled up with her cat and a cup of tea. You can find her chatting with readers online and in person during monthly programs, including #BookTok Tuesday and This Book Group is Queer.
UPCOMING EVENTS
KCLS offers a variety of in-person and online events and activities for all ages! All events are free. Find one that interests you at KCLS.org/Events.
Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4:30–5:30 p.m.
Renton Highlands Library
Explore different countries through captivating folktales. Learn about fascinating cultures and traditions from around the globe in this weekly program designed for kids and tweens.
Wednesday, Jan. 22, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Renton Library
Join poet, educator, and author Kiana Davis as she discusses her book Digging for Roots and her deeply personal journey through struggle and resilience. Davis empowers students to embrace their roots, explore their cultural histories, and challenge stereotypes.
Thursday, Jan. 30, 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Burien Library
In partnership with Para Los Niños, join an exhilarating bilingual event that combines the thrill of chess with the stimulating challenge of mental games.
¡Únase a nosotros en un emocionante evento que combina la emoción de una exhibición simultánea de ajedrez con el estimulante desafío de los juegos mentales.
Thursday, Jan. 30, 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Carco Theatre
Hear from Nic Stone, author of Chaos Theory and Dear Martin, at this compelling event. Stone is a bestselling author and an outspoken racial and social justice advocate. She will discuss the themes in her books while stressing the need for equity, accountability, and empowerment in reshaping our society. Community members may attend in person or online. Attendees ages 12-18 may receive free books at the event while supplies last. Register in advance to reserve your spot or receive a livestream link.
Saturday, Feb. 1, 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Renton Highlands Library
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with dance, crafts, and giveaways. Enjoy performances from Hua Yin Dance Performing Arts Group, NW Korean Art Center, and the Karmic Rose Dance Team.
Friday, Feb. 7, 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Woodmont Library
Learn about women who contributed to the aeronautics industry during World War II. We’ll explore the experiences of Black Rosie the Riveters who built planes in Boeing’s factories, Women Airforce Service Pilots, and more.
Sunday, Feb. 9, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Renton Library
Get free and low-cost veterinary care from Washington Health Outreach in the Renton Library parking lot.
Monday, Feb. 10, 12:00–1:30 p.m.
Renton Highlands Library
Discover basic ways to save energy and money to improve the comfort and affordability of your home. Learn about energy consumption, our daily choices and habits, and the inner workings of our homes.
Sunday, Feb. 16, 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Issaquah Library
Join us at the Issaquah Library to welcome local bestselling author Erica Bauermeister. She will discuss her latest novel, No Two Persons, and her writing process. There will be a book signing to follow, with onsite book sales provided by Island Books. Refreshments will be provided.
NEED A LIBRARY CARD?
Residents in the KCLS service area (in King County, outside the City of Seattle) can sign up instantly for a physical card to access our full collection. Seattle residents may sign up for a digital eCard to access our digital collection. Visit KCLS.org/Library-Cards to get started. Contact Ask KCLS at KCLS.org/Ask if you need assistance with your account, or call (425) 462-9600 or (800) 462-9600.
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