Amateur Sleuths Make for Fun Reading in NPL's Book Challenge
Naperville Public Library's Amazing Book Challenge has introduced a captivating new category: "Dame Detectives," celebrating the sharp-witted female sleuths who have graced the pages of countless mystery novels.
This special collection invites readers to explore a world where women take center stage in solving crimes. From amateur detectives to real-life spies, these stories follow fierce female characters navigating the complex world of crime with intelligence, courage, and often a touch of humor.
"We wanted to highlight the incredible range of female detectives in literature," says Sarah Jenkins, Naperville's head librarian. "These characters break stereotypes and show that anyone can be a problem-solver."
The challenge features curated recommendations including:
- The Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman
- The Phryne Fisher mysteries by Kerry Greenwood
- Maisie Dobbs novels by Jacqueline Winspear
"What makes this category special is how these characters balance wit with determination," adds Jenkins. "They're not just solving crimes - they're defying expectations."
The library has created themed reading guides and discussion questions to accompany the selections. Patrons can track their progress through the challenge using printable bookmarks or the library's digital reading tracker.
For mystery lovers looking for their next great read, the "Dame Detectives" category offers a perfect starting point. The challenge runs through December 31, with prizes for participants who complete at least five books from the collection.