The Ridgeview Bookshop
The Ridgeview Bookshop is open to the general public during normal school hours.
To order a featured book, to special order a book, or to submit an inquiry, please contact Mrs. Menon by clicking here: (bookshop@ridgeviewclassical.org)
The Halloween Tree by Susan Montanari is a charming and beautifully illustrated story filled with Halloween magic and whimsy. The tale brings a fun, imaginative twist to the holiday while celebrating the joy of being different and finding a place to belong. A delightful seasonal read for young children and families.
Now that the weather has cooled off, it is the perfect time to read Tristan Gooley’s How to Read Nature, an insightful and engaging guide to interpreting the natural world through careful observation. Gooley demonstrates how plants, animals, weather patterns, and landscapes offer subtle clues about the environment, transforming an ordinary walk outdoors into an opportunity for discovery. The book encourages readers to slow down, observe their surroundings more attentively, and develop a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the natural world. Whether you are an experienced nature enthusiast or simply curious about your surroundings, this book offers a fascinating new perspective on the world just beyond your doorstep.
Kristin Hannah’s The Women is a compelling and emotionally powerful historical novel that explores the experiences of women who served during the Vietnam War and the struggles they faced after returning home. Through Frankie McGrath’s journey, the novel examines courage, sacrifice, friendship, and the lasting effects of war. Hannah also challenges the idea that war is experienced only by soldiers, highlighting how Vietnam nurses endured trauma and hardship while receiving little to no recognition for their service. Read the book now—the movie has just been signed into production!
John Wyndham’s Cold War (1955) sci-fi classic, The Chrysalids, is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that examines prejudice, conformity, and the fear of people who are different. Set in a post-apocalyptic society where religious beliefs define what is considered “normal,” the novel shows how intolerance can lead to cruelty and injustice. Through David’s struggle to protect himself and others with telepathic abilities, Wyndham questions whether society should punish differences or accept them as part of human progress. Overall, The Chrysalids is a powerful and intelligent novel because its themes remain relevant to modern discussions about discrimination, individuality, and the dangers of blind conformity.
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell s an engaging fantasy novel that combines adventure, mystery, and imagination. The story introduces a hidden world filled with extraordinary creatures and dangerous challenges. The characters face difficult situations that reveal their courage, determination, and loyalty. Overall, the novel is an enjoyable choice for readers (ages 8+) who appreciate imaginative worlds, exciting adventures, and meaningful characters; it also makes an excellent family read-out-loud book! Read this book and then the next two in the series (the third book was just released on Sept 1!)
Whistler by Ann Patchett is a story about two adults looking back over the choices they made and the choices that were made for them. It’s a story about bravery, memory, the often small yet consequential moments that define our lives, and the endless stream of loss that in time comes for us all. Beautiful in its simplicity, it is ultimately about how love endures, and how the feeling of being known by one other person, even for a short period of time, can change everything. This new release is arguably Patchett’s best book yet!
These three books are recommended by our College Counselor, Ms. Olson. They can be ordered individually or as a set through our Bookshop.
Thank you for supporting the Ridgeview Bookshop this year! We are proud to have placed almost 1,000 books into the hands of happy readers this year as part of our mission to foster a love of the written word within our community. We encourage you to keep reading throughout the summer—whether as a family, individually, or with a group (Middlemarch is our Summer Parent Group selection). If you would like to stop by and browse or are simply looking for recommendations, please don’t hesitate to reach out at bookshop@ridgeviewclassical.org.
Legere Noli Desinere!
Duty, Honor, Country & Life: A Tribute to the American Spirit by Admiral William H. McRaven is a powerful reflection on the values that have shaped the American experience. Through thoughtful storytelling and vivid examples, the book highlights themes of service, resilience, and personal sacrifice in a way that feels both inspiring and sincere. Overall, it leaves readers with a deeper appreciation for the spirit of dedication and purpose that continues to define the nation.
“The best that has been written for Ridgeview’s community of life-long readers.”
Horrorstör by Grady Hendrix is a clever, creepy, and completely original horror book that turns an ordinary IKEA-like furniture store into the setting for a truly unsettling night (you can already see it, can’t you?!) The mix of humor, eerie atmosphere, and inventive scares makes the story both entertaining and surprisingly disturbing. A fun choice for readers who enjoy horror with a quirky, darkly comedic edge. (If you enjoy this modern master of the genre, check out more Hendrix books in the bookshop.)