The Dewey Divas and Dudes Top 5: Chris' Picks!

If you love sci-fi and fantasy and you haven't visited Bakka Phoenix Books in Toronto, then you are missing out! Bakka Phoenix Books is the oldest sci-fi/fantasy bookstore in Canada and it is amazing! I called on the manager, Chris Szego, for her top picks of the year. I knew she was a trusted and well-read source but can you believe she reads on average 10 books a week?! While I am beyond impressed (and slightly jealous) she warned me that it was very difficult for her to only pick five. Here are her picks:

1. Written in Red: A Novel of the Others by Anne Bishop (Roc Hardcover)

"A thoroughly enjoyable urban fantasy in which humans are not the dominant species on the planet. A fun read: I'm looking forward to the next book in the series."

2. An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth by Chris Hadfield (Random House) 

"I say this unironically, as an adult: Chris Hadfield is my hero.

His intelligence, humour, and above all his sheer delight in his work is a constant inspiration. Read this book."

3. A Face Like Glass by Frances Hardinge (MacMillan)

"Hardinge's impressive originality is on full display in this story about the underground city of Caverna. The city's denizens can create wines to make you forget your dreams; perfumes to send you to sleep, and cheeses that can kill -- but they cannot make any facial expressions until they are taught how. Into this world falls young Neverfell, whose face reflects everything that she feels... and Caverna will never be the same."

4. Royal Airs by Sharon Shinn (Ace Hardcover) 

"Josetta may be a princess, but she will not allow her entire life to be eaten by court intrigue. Rafe is a gambler who is looking to make something more of his life. When they meet, the world will change in ways they can't even imagine. I already want more."

5. An Inquiry Into Love and Death by Simone St. James (NAL Trade)

"In post WWI England, a young woman encounters a number of mysteries when she travels to a small town to settle the affairs of her recently deceased uncle. Beautifully written, with a definite feel for the historical period. (And Canadian!)"