Go the Distance
*Go the Distance* by Jen Calonita is a middle-grade novel that reimagines the mythological world of *Hercules* through the eyes of a modern-day teen, Megan. When she discovers she is the daughter of Hercules, Megan is transported to ancient Greece, where she must navigate a world filled with legendary creatures, gods, and heroes. Tasked with proving her worth, she embarks on a quest to live up to her father’s legacy, accompanied by her companions, including the iconic Pegasus. The story blends adventure, humor, and themes of self-discovery, as Megan confronts her inner strength and learns the true meaning of heroism. Aimed at readers who enjoy contemporary takes on mythology, *Go the Distance* offers an engaging mix of fantasy, empowerment, and classic storytelling.
God Emperor of Dune
"God Emperor of Dune" by Frank Herbert is the fourth book in the Dune series, set thousands of years after the events of "Dune Messiah." The novel follows Leto II, the son of Paul Atreides, who has transformed into a hybrid of human and sandworm, granting him extraordinary powers and extending his life. As the God Emperor, Leto rules the universe with an iron fist, implementing his vision for humanity's future while grappling with the isolation and burdens of his immense power. The story delves into themes of tyranny, sacrifice, and the tension between free will and destiny. Through complex characters and philosophical musings, Herbert explores the consequences of Leto's long-term plans to ensure humanity's survival, ultimately posing profound questions about leadership, control, and the nature of divinity in a changing world.
Gone Girl
*Gone Girl* by Gillian Flynn is a psychological thriller that explores the complexities of marriage, deception, and the dark sides of human nature. The story centers on **Nick and Amy Dunne**, a married couple whose seemingly perfect life unravels when Amy goes missing on their fifth wedding anniversary. As Nick becomes the prime suspect in her disappearance, the story unfolds through alternating perspectives: Nick's point of view and Amy's diary entries, revealing secrets, lies, and twisted motives. The book masterfully explores themes of manipulation, identity, and media influence, keeping readers on edge with its unpredictable plot twists and unreliable narrators. *Gone Girl* is a tense, gripping exploration of the darker aspects of relationships and the lengths people will go to conceal the truth, making it a compelling read for fans of psychological suspense and crime fiction.
Good Omens
*Good Omens* by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman is a comedic fantasy novel about an angel, **Aziraphale**, and a demon, **Crowley**, who have grown rather fond of Earth and its inhabitants over the millennia. When they learn that the Apocalypse is imminent—set to unfold with the arrival of the Antichrist—the two unlikely allies team up to prevent the end of the world. However, things don't go as planned, as the Antichrist, an 11-year-old boy named **Adam**, is living an ordinary life in a small English town, unaware of his destiny to bring about Armageddon. The novel is a hilarious, irreverent exploration of good and evil, fate and free will, with a quirky cast of characters, including witches, a clairvoyant child, and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Blending sharp wit, satire, and dark humor, *Good Omens* is a delightful and thought-provoking read that reflects on human nature, organized religion, and the chaos of the universe.
Good Vibes, Good Life
"Good Vibes, Good Life" by Vex King is an inspiring self-help book that encourages readers to cultivate positivity and resilience in their lives. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, King explores themes of self-love, mindfulness, and the power of positive thinking. He emphasizes the importance of letting go of negativity, surrounding oneself with uplifting influences, and embracing a growth mindset. The book serves as a guide to creating a fulfilling and joyful life, urging readers to harness their inner strength and manifest their dreams.
Grinding It Out
*Grinding It Out: The Making of McDonald's* by Ray Kroc is the autobiography of the man who transformed McDonald's from a small, family-owned restaurant into the global fast-food empire it is today. In the book, Kroc shares his personal journey, from his early life and various business ventures to his pivotal meeting with Richard and Maurice McDonald, the original founders of the fast-food chain. Kroc's relentless drive, innovative approach to franchising, and vision for standardizing the McDonald's experience are key themes in the book. *Grinding It Out* offers a candid look at the challenges, setbacks, and successes Kroc encountered while building his empire, along with insights into his business philosophy and the importance of perseverance and hard work. It's an inspiring and practical read for entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the story behind one of the most successful brands in history.
Hadith on Sufism
"Hadith on Sufism" by Sheikh Abu Abd al-Rahman al-Sulami is a significant work that explores the spiritual dimensions of Sufism through the lens of hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad). Al-Sulami, a prominent Sufi scholar, compiles and interprets various hadith to highlight the principles and practices of Sufism, emphasizing themes such as inner purification, love for God, and the importance of spiritual companionship. The book serves as both a theological guide and a practical manual for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Sufi spirituality within the broader Islamic tradition.
Hamnet
*Hamnet* by Maggie O'Farrell is a poignant and beautifully written historical novel that imagines the life and death of William Shakespeare's son, Hamnet, who died at the age of 11 in 1596. The novel is set in Stratford-upon-Avon and centers not just on the tragedy of Hamnet's death, but also on the deep emotional and personal impacts it had on his mother, Agnes (a fictionalized version of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare's wife), and on Shakespeare himself, though his name is rarely mentioned directly. O'Farrell explores themes of grief, love, loss, and the connection between family and artistic creation, weaving a story that is both deeply intimate and universally resonant. *Hamnet* is a beautifully atmospheric and emotionally rich novel that brings to life the historical context of Shakespeare's family while focusing on the enduring, personal cost of tragedy.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Parts One and Two
*Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Parts One and Two* by Jack Thorne (based on a story by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and Jack Thorne) is the script of the critically acclaimed two-part stage play that continues the story of the *Harry Potter* series. Set 19 years after the events of *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*, the play follows **Harry Potter**, now a Ministry employee, and his son **Albus Potter**, who is struggling to live up to his father’s legendary legacy. Albus forms an unlikely friendship with **Scorpius Malfoy**, Draco Malfoy's son, and together they embark on a magical adventure involving time travel, dark forces, and the complicated dynamics between father and son. The story explores themes of family, identity, and the pressure of expectations, while bringing in familiar characters like Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. *The Cursed Child* is a thrilling and emotional continuation of the *Harry Potter* saga, mixing nostalgia with new magical elements and a fresh perspective on the next generation of wizards. Although initially written as a play, the script offers an engaging experience for *Harry Potter* fans, extending the beloved universe in new and exciting ways.
HAWKE
*HAWKE* by Jessie Hall is a romantic suspense novel that follows the story of a woman named Lily, who finds herself entangled in a passionate and dangerous relationship with a man named Hawke, a man with a troubled past. As their intense connection deepens, Lily discovers that Hawke is hiding secrets, and his dark past begins to catch up with them both. The novel combines elements of romance, suspense, and action, creating a fast-paced, emotionally charged narrative where love, trust, and survival are tested. *HAWKE* is ideal for readers who enjoy steamy romance mixed with tension-filled suspense and complex characters with layers of mystery and danger.
Healing with the Medicine of the Prophet
*Healing with the Medicine of the Prophet* by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya is a classical Islamic text that explores the health and wellness practices recommended by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through a combination of hadith (sayings of the Prophet) and traditional remedies. The book offers a holistic approach to healing, emphasizing the use of natural substances such as honey, black seed, dates, and other foods, as well as spiritual practices like prayer, fasting, and maintaining a clean and balanced lifestyle. Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya delves into both physical and spiritual healing, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body and soul in Islam. This book serves as a guide for those seeking to integrate prophetic medicine into their daily lives for overall well-being, while also emphasizing the importance of faith, patience, and trust in God as part of the healing process.
Heart Therapy
*Heart Therapy* by Ali Albarghouthi is a self-help book that focuses on emotional healing and personal growth through spiritual and psychological principles. Drawing from Islamic teachings and modern psychological concepts, the book provides practical advice and tools to help individuals overcome emotional struggles, find inner peace, and improve their mental well-being. Albarghouthi emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart—both in a spiritual and emotional sense—as the center of human well-being. The book offers insights into how to deal with negative emotions, manage stress, cultivate gratitude, and develop a stronger connection with both oneself and others. *Heart Therapy* aims to provide a holistic approach to emotional healing, combining spirituality, mindfulness, and practical strategies for personal transformation.