Baldwin Bookworms: May selections include historical fiction, kids, teen picks

By KAYLA GREEN
Executive Editor
kayla@gulfcoastmedia.com
Posted 5/1/25

Did you read any of the books Foley Public Library staff recommended for our first round of Baldwin Bookworms, a new book club Gulf Coast Media and the library started last month?

Library staff …

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Baldwin Bookworms: May selections include historical fiction, kids, teen picks

Posted

Did you read any of the books Foley Public Library staff recommended for our first round of Baldwin Bookworms, a new book club Gulf Coast Media and the library started last month?

Library staff gives Gulf Coast Media three books that we run the first Friday of each month in The Baldwin Times, online at www.GulfCoastMedia.com and promoted throughout the month on both our social media pages.

Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on the books they choose to read by emailing kayla@gulfcoastmedia.com or messaging either the paper or library on social media.
If you enjoyed one — or all three — and are ready for their next picks, or if you're just joining now, here are this month's picks.

"Clash of Eagles" by Alan Smale (2015)

Picked by: Garrett

Genre: Alternate Historical Fiction

Pages: 464

Goodreads rating: 3.82

Description: Imagine a world where the Roman Empire never fell...In AD 1218, Praetor Gaius Marcellinus, commander of the 33rd Legion, invades Nova Hesperia, a land inhabited by Powhatani, Iroqua and Cahokiani. In search of gold, he and his men find only death. Marcellinus is taken prisoner, but his life is spared. To survive, he must re-evaluate his allegiances and find a new place in a strange land.

Why did you pick this book?

"I picked this book because it had me hooked from the very start, and I can't think of a book (or a trilogy!) that I have loved reading more than this. If you're a fan of history and you want to see one possible idea of what would happen if the Roman Empire survived, this is for you."

Why do you like this genre?

"I have always been fascinated with history, and seeing a sort of 'what if' scenario really captivated me, especially dealing with a civilization as important and influential as Rome."

"The Food Group" series by Jory John (2017–2021)

Picked by: Maggie P.

Genre: Children's Fiction

Pages: Most books in the series are around 30–35 pages with minimal text on each page

Goodreads rating: 4.33

Why did you pick this book?

"This series has been a hit! The Food Group series features charming characters, laugh-out-loud humor, and heartwarming messages — making it a perfect pick for parents who want to share the joy of reading with their children. 'The Bad Seed,' which kicks off the series, blends silly humor with important life lessons, like how people can change and grow, even if they've made mistakes in the past. It's a favorite among kids at the library and a fantastic read-aloud.

Reading together is one of the most powerful ways to build strong bonds and foster a lifelong love of books. The Food Group series offers the perfect recipe for fun, connection, and learning — one delicious story at a time. So cuddle up, open a book from this series, and enjoy the nourishing power of a good story."

Why do you like this genre?

"As a children's librarian, I'm always on the lookout for books that combine humor, heart and meaningful messages — and The Food Group series hits the mark every time."

"Sunrise on the Reaping" by Suzanne Collins (2025)

Picked by: Shelley

Genre: Teen

Pages: 382

Goodreads rating: 4.62

Description: When you've been set up to lose everything you love, what is there left to fight for?

As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes.

Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.

When Haymitch's name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He's torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who's nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he's been set up to fail. But there's something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.

Why did you pick this book?

"I love the Hunger Games series; I am always up for a new one. Learning Haymitch's story was great, and the reader is introduced to so many other characters who show up in the original trilogy. As with every Hunger Games book, there is a lot to consider, whether the reader is a teen, older adult or anywhere in between. I couldn't put it down!"

Why do you like this genre?

"I enjoy teen selections. They have characters and themes that engage younger readers yet are intriguing and relevant for older readers as well."