TBR stands for to-be-read, something we're sure our book lovers are familiar with. Check out what our staff is looking forward to reading! Be it new releases or those classics we just haven't gotten to yet, this is what has us book lovers excited! You can be sure you're getting a great recommendation with our Staff Picks. Who knows more about books than ThriftBooks?
Office Admin Catie's Pile
Peace Talks
Peace Talks by Jim Butcher, book 16 of The Dresden Files, is the next book on my TBR after I finish Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson. It feels like I have been waiting ages for Jim Butcher's next installment of The Dresden Files, so imagine my excitement when I learned not just one, but TWO of the next books in the series were published within a couple months of each other. I am very much looking forward to continuing the fantastical adventures of a Wizard P.I. turned Battle Mage. Fairies, Magic, and mayhem, oh my!
Dead Until Dark
Recently, my partner and I started a re-watch of True Blood, and I realized I have not actually read the books. A decade late, I know, but Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris, the first book of The Sookie Stackhouse Series, has found its way up the queue on my TBR, inspired by the re-watch. I am fully prepared for the books to quite different than the show.
When We Were Vikings
When We Were Vikings by Andrew David MacDonald first caught my attention when browsing through an issue of Publisher's Weekly. The overview of the book shows hints of touching on topics like family, difficult decisions we have to face, and the quest to find oneself. This book has already found a home on my shelf, and is just waiting its turn to be cracked open.
The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why it Matters
I also recently picked up The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why it Matters by Priya Parker. With plans to get married next year, and as the Office Administrator/internal events coordinator for ThriftBooks corporate, I am interested in getting some insights on event planning and making gatherings (post COVID) memorable and meaningful.
Written in Red
Last book of note on my TBR is a re-read. I usually like to have one re-read going, and next on my list is Written in Red by Anne Bishop. This will be my third journey through The Others series and I would be surprised if it's my last. The Others are beings such as vampires, were-animals, elementals, and beings of great power who have reluctantly agreed to share and allow certain lands on their world to be populated by humanity. But if humanity continues to overstep the agreed upon boundaries… Plus, there is cute, romance-y, love stuff.
Director of Customer Service Hugo's Stack
The 12 Volt Bible for Boats
Red Horizons: Chronicles of a Soviet Spy
OK, not great that we're out of stock at the time of this writing (did I snag the last copy???) but several media outlets have really touted this book, so it's no wonder this hard-to-find gem is super in demand. Lieutenant General Ion Mihai Pacepa was a senior Romanian Intelligence official who defected to the West in 1978. He spent his life in the west, living under an assumed identity and even survived having a two million dollar bounty on his head & assassination attempts from assorted hit men with names like "Carlos, The Jackal." Pacepa was one of the most important Cold War defections, and this man died at 92, this year, from COVID-19.
American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer
Vintage Receiver Tracie is Looking Forward To
Last Second in Dallas
Serpentine & The Museum of Desire
Go Tell the Bees That I am Gone
Customer Service Representative Oxana is Interested In
My Journey to Lhasa : The Classic Story of the Only Western Woman Who Succeeded in Entering the Forbidden City
Unconditional Love
My First Summer in the Sierra
Customer Service Representative Dane's TBR List
Gideon the Ninth
How Long 'Til Black Future Month
The Haunting of Hill House
The Last Herald Mage Trilogy
Production Assistant Amanda Can't Wait to Read
Failing Up
The Rise of Kyoshi
The Shadow of Kyoshi
The Historian
Regional Director William is Working On
2001: a Space Odyssey
The Joy Luck Club
A Confederacy of Dunces
Staff Picks: TBR Piles — Discover Your Next Favorite Read
Welcome to our staff-curated TBR (To Be Read) reading list! If you’re searching for the best staff-picked TBR books, you’re in the right place. Our team of passionate readers has carefully chosen books that deserve a spot on everyone’s “to-read” shelf. Whether you’re new to building your own TBR pile or a seasoned book collector, this collection is curated to inspire, surprise, and delight. Explore staff picks books across genres, themes, and eras, and find your next unputdownable read.
Why Trust Staff Picks When Building Your TBR Pile?
Choosing your next book can be overwhelming with so many options out there. That’s where staff-curated TBR reading lists shine! Our team reads widely and thoughtfully, hand-selecting books that stand out for their storytelling, impact, and lasting appeal. By browsing staff picks books, you can:
- Discover hidden gems and modern classics
- Explore a broader range of genres and voices
- Find books that come with trusted recommendations, not just popularity
- Jumpstart your reading momentum with titles that captivate from page one
Featured Staff Pick: A Must-Read for Every TBR Stack
One title our staff consistently recommends is A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole. This unforgettable novel is celebrated for its wit, eccentric characters, and vivid New Orleans setting. The author’s own remarkable story adds intrigue, making it a book that sparks conversation and leaves a lasting impression. If you’re looking to buy staff picks TBR books that blend humor, tragedy, and regional flavor, this is a standout choice to elevate your reading list.
Explore By Genre: Staff Picks for Every Reading Mood
Our collection includes staff picks books from every corner of the literary world. Consider building your TBR pile with a variety of genres to keep your reading life dynamic:
- Literary Fiction: Dive into character-driven stories and rich prose, perfect for readers who savor thought-provoking narratives.
- Mystery & Thriller: Add suspenseful page-turners that keep you guessing until the final reveal.
- Science Fiction & Fantasy: Escape into imaginative worlds and epic adventures, recommended by staff who love exploring the unknown.
- Historical Fiction: Travel through time with stories rooted in real events, offering both entertainment and insight.
- Nonfiction: Expand your perspective with memoirs, essays, and groundbreaking investigative works that our staff can’t stop talking about.
No matter your reading mood, you’ll find best staff-picked TBR books that match your interests and spark curiosity.
Build Your TBR by Reading Goals
Everyone’s reading journey is unique. Here’s how our staff-curated TBR reading list can help you reach your goals:
- Broaden Your Horizons: Add books by diverse authors and explore cultures or viewpoints outside your own.
- Read More Classics: Mix in modern classics like A Confederacy of Dunces to balance contemporary reads with time-tested favorites.
- Beat Reading Slumps: Let staff picks inspire you with highly recommended, engaging books that keep you turning pages.
- Challenge Yourself: Try a genre you don’t usually read, guided by staff favorites that ease you into new territory.
How to Choose the Right Staff Picks Books for You
With so many tempting options, it helps to narrow your choices. When you’re ready to buy staff picks TBR books, consider:
- Your Favorite Genres: Start with staff picks in genres you already love, then branch out.
- Book Length: Mix shorter reads with longer epics to keep your TBR pile manageable and motivating.
- Author Reputation: Look for books by authors our staff respect for their craft and storytelling skill.
- Staff Annotations: Pay attention to the reasons behind each recommendation—our team highlights what makes each book special!
For example, the staff-picked A Confederacy of Dunces is known for its unique humor and insight into New Orleans culture, making it ideal for readers seeking both entertainment and literary merit.
Benefits of Buying Staff Picks TBR Books from ThriftBooks
ThriftBooks makes it easy to build your dream TBR pile without breaking the bank. When you buy staff picks TBR books here, you get:
- Affordable Prices: Access to both used and new copies at great value
- Wide Selection: Find staff picks from every genre and era
- Quality You Can Trust: Books are carefully graded so you know what to expect
- Eco-Friendly Shopping: Give books a second life and support sustainable reading habits
Plus, shopping staff-curated TBR reading lists helps you discover titles you might not find elsewhere, all recommended by people who truly love books.
Tips for Managing Your Staff-Curated TBR Reading List
Once your TBR pile starts to grow, here are some staff-approved tips to keep your reading organized and enjoyable:
- Prioritize by Interest: Sort your books by what excites you most, not just by genre or author.
- Mix it Up: Alternate between heavier reads and lighter, more uplifting staff picks.
- Set Realistic Goals: Challenge yourself, but don’t feel pressured to finish every book immediately—enjoy the journey!
- Track Your Progress: Use a journal or app to log your reading and celebrate milestones.
- Share with Friends: Swap recommendations and discuss your favorite staff-picked TBR books to keep your enthusiasm high.
Get Inspired: Start Your Next Reading Adventure
Ready to discover your next great read? Explore our ever-evolving collection of staff picks books, including essential titles like A Confederacy of Dunces, and uncover new favorites for your TBR pile. Whether you’re a casual reader or a committed bookworm, there’s something in our staff-curated TBR reading list to excite every kind of reader.
Enjoy browsing, and happy reading!
