Gift a book by a Cincinnati author from the literary list

When you think of Cincinnati, you may think of beer, pigs, pottery and seven hills. But you should also think of books. The Queen City has a surprisingly rich literary history lousy with publishers, novelists, poets and printers. Owner of the Roebling bookstores and president of Adventure Keen publishing Richard Hunt could likely write the book on the subject (or at the least, publish it). “Early on as Cincinnati established itself as a cultural center on the western frontier (mid-1800s), the literary arts flourished,” he says. Harriet Beecher Stowe lived in Walnut Hills and found inspiration for Uncle Tom’s Cabin through her experiences in the city. World traveler Lafcadio Hearn, whose literary works first introduced Americans to Japanese culture, was a reporter in Cincinnati, en route to New Orleans, the French West Indies and his final destination, Japan. Prolific novelist-turned-nonfiction writer David Quammen was born in the Cincy burbs, taking inspiration in the hardwood forest nearby (until it was bulldozed). Cincinnati also lays claim to New York Times bestselling romance author Emily Henry, who resides on the Kentucky side of the river.

And the list goes on—perhaps merging with your last-minute gifting list.

If you’re looking for a meaningful present for a book lover on your list, consider some of the latest releases from current local favorites—best purchased from a local bookstore, of course. It’s the gift that gives thrice: to the author, to the reader and to cherished indie bookstores.

Roebling Books showcases Cincy authors, including a limited number of signed books. “We devote a full bookcase/section to local titles…and sometimes more as we’ll double-shelve these books in Local Authors as well as their respective category (fiction, children’s, history, etc.),” says Hunt. Many other indie bookstores also offer curated selections from local authors, including Downbound Books in Northside, Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Rookwood and The Bookshelf in Madeira.

Non-fiction picks on feminism, optimism and a true Cincinnati character

Tarbell andTarbellpalooza!. Larger-than-life Cincinnatian Jim Tarbell is the subject of the biography Tarbell, by fellow local Buck Niehoff. Pair it with Greg Hand’s curated compilation of 16 essays, Tarbellpalooza! Want to nab the pair? Be on the lookout for events where the books will be sold, likely including a to-do at Arnold’s in January. Tarbellpalooza! is available at Downbound Books, Ohio Book Store on Main Street and Joseph-Beth. Distribution plans for Tarbell are still in the works.

You Must Stand Up. Women’s rights activist and journalist Amanda Becker recently returned to her Cincy roots after spending nearly 17 years in Washington, D.C. Her book You Must Stand Up: The Fight for Abortion Rights in Post-Dobbs America details the drama that unfolded in the wake of America’s first year without the protections of Roe v. Wade. Ultimately, the text illustrates the possibility of a new way forward—the rise of a new movement demanding support for women’s right to own their bodies and their healthcare.

Food for Thought. For nearly 20 years, beloved Cincinnati culinary director Amy Tobin has been building home chefs’ confidence for cooking up casual family dinners and even whipping up meals for elegant dinner parties. Her latest book, Food for Thought, nourishes the mind with daily reflections and some of the heartfelt wisdom she’s shared with her children. “This book will appeal to anyone interested in taking charge of their own outlook, happiness, and life in general,” says Tobin. “It’s a touch of inspiration in digestible bites. If I make one day go better, my work here is done.”

Fiction selections featuring romance and mystery

Great Big Beautiful Life. The latest from prolific romance writer Emily Henry features two ambitious writerly rivals who are drawn to each other despite (or perhaps because of) their circumstances. While this novel takes place in Georgia, other Henry books like People We Meet on Vacation are peppered with fun Cincinnati references.

Catch You Later. Cincinnati native Jessica Strawser’s 2024 suspense novel tells the story of two inseparable friends who are suddenly torn apart by chance—but whose lives remain bound together. It’s the type of story Strawser is compelled to tell. “My stories are suspenseful yet relatable; the biggest compliment is when a reader tells me that stepping into the world of my characters felt like spending time with real friends. I tend to write the kind of books that make you think about what you might do in a character’s shoes—which makes them popular book club selections and ‘buddy reads,’ where a mother and daughter or sisters or best friends might read at the same time and then talk about them over brunch or wine or a nice long walk,” she says.

Children’s books for babies and big kids

Urban Coyotes. Cincinnatian Mary Kay Carson wanted to be a scientist when she was little—which explains why she writes all about the natural world in her non-fiction books for kids. The latest addition to her literary pack is Urban Coyotes, which explores the lives of city-dwelling coyotes by following the work of a group of Chicago scientists. Fun fact: the photography is by her husband, Tom Uhlman.

Little Red. Born and raised in Cincinnati and currently residing in Terrace Park, Will Hillenbrand has written over 75 children’s books! Since it’s the holidays, and Hillenbrand’s favorite season is winter, we’ll highlight Little Red, the story of a small truck with a mighty big spirit.

The Yellow Bus. Writer and illustrator Loren Long has raised two sons and four dogs in the Queen City (along with his wife, of course). He’s also published more than 30 titles, including in collaboration with some pretty famous people like Madonna and Barack Obama. His most recent book is the No. 1 New York Times bestselling The Yellow Bus, about a forgotten school bus that finds happiness and purpose in the most unexpected places—and in the journey along the way.

Here’s an extra bit of love from a fellow Cincy writer: “Little Tree was a favorite to read aloud to my own kids, and I’d always find myself getting a little teary by the end,” remembers Strawser. “I know I’ll never outgrow my family’s copy!”

Amy Tobin seconds that endorsement. “Loren Long came to visit my kids’ school, and we treasured our signed copies of his books,” recalls Tobin. “It’s funny. I noted that The New York Times said he ‘wrote about joy and built a tiny world to match.’ I like to think that in Food for Thought, I’ve written about joy too—and I want my readers to build their own world to match.”

Happy bookstore hunting and cozy reading to all, and to all a good night!