A Mercy by Toni Morrison

This slender Morrison novel reminded me of Beloved more than any other novel since. I have read all of Morrison's novels and the last several didn't hold me. This one did.

Salvatore Scibona Nominated for National Book Award

National Book Award Site

Ms. Hempel Chronicles by Sarah Shun-lien Bynum

A great collection of interlocking stories about Beatrice Hempel, middle school English teacher. This book was a gift from Salvatore Scibona, who thought I would enjoy the humor and honesty of the classroom that Bynum perfectly paints.