Introducing Baldwin Bookworms: A new book club series from Gulf Coast Media and Foley Public Library

3 staff recommendations monthly chosen to encourage reader engagement

By KAYLA GREEN
Executive Editor
kayla@gulfcoastmedia.com
Posted 4/4/25

Calling all book lovers who want to be part of a community of fellow bibliophiles but don't have time to attend in-person book club meetings amid your busy schedule. Gulf Coast Media and Foley Public …

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Introducing Baldwin Bookworms: A new book club series from Gulf Coast Media and Foley Public Library

3 staff recommendations monthly chosen to encourage reader engagement

Posted

Calling all book lovers who want to be part of a community of fellow bibliophiles but don't have time to attend in-person book club meetings amid your busy schedule.

Gulf Coast Media and Foley Public Library are partnering to bring you a book club you won't want to miss out on.

Baldwin Bookworms is a new monthly series that will run in GCM's Baldwin Times the first Friday of each month. It will feature three recommendations from library staff, spanning genres and ages so anyone can find something they're interested in. Read all three or just one, the option is yours.

Libraries are an endless source of free information at your fingertips. Access to information is a critical mission for newspapers as it helps you be more informed. Whether you're researching on free WiFi at a library's computer, reading non-fiction to learn about the world around you or escaping into the vast well of fiction genres, libraries provide learning and entertainment without any cost barrier to the public.

Foley Public Library has a proven track record of providing top-notch services and materials to their patrons, evidenced by their six-year streak in being named Best of Baldwin's Best Library.

"We're beyond excited to team up with Gulf Coast Media to bring book recommendations to Baldwin Bookworms! Sharing our staff favorites with the community not only spreads our love of books but also creates a fun and engaging way to connect with fellow readers. Get ready for great reads and lively conversations," said Kate Norris, Foley Public Library director.

The books will be listed here each month with short descriptions and why the staff member chose it, as well as posted online at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/bookclub. Both GCM and the library will promote the books individually throughout the month on social media, where readers are encouraged to comment with their thoughts on and reactions to the book. You can also message us, or email kayla@gulfcoastmedia.com to share your thoughts. Engaging with fellow readers is the goal!

Follow GCM on Instagram @gulfcoastnews and Facebook at www.facebook.com/GulfCoastMedia.

Follow Foley Public Library on Instagram @foleypubliclibrary and Facebook at www.facebook.com/FoleyPublicLibrary.

If you're posting about the books, use hashtag #BaldwinBookworms.

Here are the first three recommendations. We'll share feedback on these next month, along with the next round of picks.

Photos Provided

"Dreadful" by Caitlin Rozakis (2024)

Picked by: Michelle

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 349

Goodreads rating: 3.69

Description: A sharp-witted, high fantasy farce featuring killer moat squid, toxic masculinity, evil wizards and a garlic festival — all at once. Perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher, K. J. Parker and Travis Baldree.

Why did you pick this book?

"I love fantasy books. In this one, the main character has amnesia and realizes he's an evil wizard who lives in a castle full of bumbling goblins. And, oops, apparently he also just kidnapped a princess. Poor Gavrax just wants to be a regular guy. This book is full of dark humor, and the misadventures had me looking forward to reading each night.

Why do you like this genre?

I love the escapism of fantasy. I'd lose myself in an enchanted forest any day if I could.

Photos Provided

"Garden Spells" by Sarah Addison Allen (2007)

Picked by: Holly

Genre: Magical Realism

Pages: 290

Goodreads rating: 4.07

Description: In a garden surrounded by a tall fence, tucked away behind a small, quiet house in an even smaller town, is an apple tree that is rumored to bear a very special sort of fruit. In this luminous debut novel, Sarah Addison Allen tells the story of that enchanted tree, and the extraordinary people who tend it.…

Why did you pick this book?

"'Garden Spells' is a light but enchanting read. It has elements that remind me of 'Practical Magic' and is just a fun escape from reality. Who doesn't love a feel-good, happy ending every once in a while?"

Why do you like this genre?

"Magical realism has always been a favorite genre of mine. It is a great way to escape into a realistic but extraordinary magical world."

Photos Provided

"Viking Knits: Over 40 Scandi Knits for Men, Women & Children" by Lasse L. Matberg (2024)

Picked by: Melissa

Genre: Non-Fiction

Pages: 192

Goodreads rating: 4.18

Description: Internet sensation Lasse Matberg comes from a family who, for generations, have been working to create beautiful hand-crafted items. 'Viking Knits' is a tribute to high-quality, practical needlework, inspired by the Vikings' warm, all-weather garments. Discover and knit more than 40 traditional and modern Norwegian knitwear patterns for all seasons and for everyone in the family. From tough-wearing sweaters and outerwear to elegant cardigans and jackets, all have made been made in a quietly beautiful Scandinavian style. Whether you love traditional, Nordic colorwork patterns and cables or modern, textured knits, there is something for everyone.

Why did you pick this book?

"As a knitter, I'm always on the lookout for knitting books with gorgeous patterns and lovely photography. Matberg's 'Viking Knits' doesn't disappoint. All knitters, from beginner to advanced, will find patterns to suit them. Patterns are well written and easy to follow. The photographs are a treat to the eyes. Even non-knitters can enjoy the lavish photography."