Book Buzz

Episode 142 - Air date: Feb. 22, 2026

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I’m the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are “Better Living Through Birding” by Christian Cooper and “The Storm” by Rachel Hawkins.

First, we’re going to hear from Robyn, librarian at the Stanwood Library, for a unique memoir. Take it away, Robyn.

ROBYN:

In a world moving too fast …constantly scrolling … where nature is just a background noise … one man dares to look up.

“Better Living Through Birding” is a book starring curiosity, featuring pigeons, and rated PG for goose opinions. From city sidewalks to leafy parks, author Christian Cooper invites you on an unexpected adventure where the real action is spotting a flash of feathers and whispering, “Wait — was that a warbler?” This isn’t just a book. It’s a feel-good reboot of how we move through the world, like when two strangers silently point at the same bird and suddenly become best friends for exactly six minutes.

Witness the thrill of a first sighting.

Experience the comedy of humans trying to outsmart birds (spoiler: the birds win).

Discover the insight hiding in plain sight — about race, belonging, and who gets to feel comfortable outdoors.

With humor, heart, and sharp observation, Cooper proves that birding isn’t about expensive gear or expert knowledge — it’s about paying attention. And once you start, there’s no going back.

Binoculars optional. Wonder guaranteed.

This season, step outside. Look up. And prepare to have your life gently, joyfully disrupted by birds.

“Better Living Through Birding” by Christian Cooper, coming soon to a park near you.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Robyn! This book is a testament to finding clarity and connection in the natural world

Next, let’s hear about deadly secrets that surface during catastrophic weather, from Marie, librarian at the Oak Harbor Library. Over to you, Marie.

MARIE:

Hurricanes are among the most powerful storms on Earth. Heavy rain and high winds wreak havoc and destruction, but at the center of every hurricane is the sudden calm contained within the eye. Don’t be fooled; there’s more to come.

In “The Storm” by Rachel Hawkins, Gen Corliss is just barely keeping her family’s historic inn afloat. Her father passed away, and her mother is in long-term care. Luckily for Gen, true crime writer August Fletcher is coming to town to conduct research for his next book. He’s reserved a room at the inn, and he’s bringing another paying guest, Gloria “Lo” Bailey.

Back in 1984, the son of the governor was found dead in the aftermath of Hurricane Marie. Everyone assumed Landon was a casualty of the storm, but the coroner determined his injuries were intentionally inflicted. After a witness came forward with information about an illicit affair, his jilted lover was arrested. The accused was Lo, a close friend of Gen’s mom. After she was acquitted, Lo moved away, leaving many unanswered questions in her wake.

Now, Lo is back, threatening to expose long-buried secrets. A storm is brewing, and the past and present are on a catastrophic collision course.

That’s “The Storm” by Rachel Hawkins.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Marie! This one sounds like a perfect storm of suspense and scandal.

Our recommendations this week are: “Better Living Through Birding” by Christian Cooper and “The Storm” by Rachel Hawkins.

Join us next time, when we’ll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I’m Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz on KSER.