If you’ve ever stayed up way too late muttering “just one more chapter” while reading The Housemaid, Never Lie, or The Coworker, then welcome—you're among friends. Frieda McFadden is the queen of binge-worthy psychological thrillers. If your life has felt a little empty since finishing her latest thriller, fear not. We've handpicked 10 heart-pounding reads that bring the same "wait—WHAT just happened?" energy.

Each May, millions of people around the world gather to celebrate Vesak, the most sacred day in the Buddhist calendar. Also known as Buddha Day, Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha. At the Coal Valley Public Library, we recognize the significance of this day and invite our community to reflect on the values that unite us: peace, compassion, and lifelong learning.

This month, we’re celebrating through stories that reflect AAPI experiences, family values, and the resilience that shines in these beautifully crafted books. From picture books that introduce cultural identity to chapter books exploring the challenges of immigration and belonging, these titles offer windows into the AAPI experience for readers of all ages.

At the Coal Valley Public Library, we believe stories have the power to honor, explore, and deepen our understanding of human relationships—especially the profound, multifaceted bond between mother and child. This Mother’s Day, Literary Links celebrates motherhood in all its forms with ten compelling books that capture the joys, sacrifices, struggles, and strength that define it.

Resilience—the ability to adapt, persevere, and bounce back stronger in the face of adversity—is an essential quality that we all can cultivate. Whether through personal hardship, loss, or trauma, stories of resilience remind us of the power of the human spirit to overcome even the toughest obstacles. If you're seeking inspiration or simply looking for stories that uplift and empower, here are some incredible books about resilience that will inspire strength in difficult time