Kristine Jelstrom-Hamill and Shelley Sommer, two incredible guests who live and breathe books, join Larry and Lindsay on the sixteenth episode of Deep Dives & Light Laughs. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to our conversation about the best books of 2024 and the perfect books to gift for the holidays.

Kristine has a rich background in the literary world. Formerly the librarian at Martinson Elementary, she now oversees all things books as the Book Manager at Buttonwood Books and Toys in Cohasset. From frontlist buying to special orders and events, Kristine’s work centers around sharing her love of books with the community. 

After 15 years at the John F. Kennedy Library, Shelley pursued her graduate degree in children’s literature at Simmons University. For 22 years, Shelley directed the library at Inly School, where she now teaches middle school writing. She’s also a published author, a reviewer for School Library Journal, and facilitates a book club for the Duxbury Senior Center. 

Tune in to hear Kristine and Shelley recount the best books of 2024, and share expert recommendations for the best books to gift this holiday season, from heartwarming reads to thrillers and everything in between. We also get into the importance of having and keeping independent book stores in our community and learn a new phrase around this: "See it here, buy it here, keep us here."

To learn more about Buttonwood Books and Toys, visit their website www.buttonwoodbooksandtoys.com or their Instagram page, @buttonwoodbooksandtoys.

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