In this week’s “It’s been a BIG week” edition of Friday Five! we’re excited to be celebrating the recent praise of Caroline Leavitt’s new novel Is This Tomorrow? by New York Daily News (and we wanted to share the book trailer!). Author Andrea Lochen shares the story behind writing her debut novel The Repeat Year with OnMilwaukee.com. L. Alison Heller opens up to Redbook on how her mid-life crisis came in the form of Lady Gaga heels. Library at the End of the Universe was blown away by Fleur Philips’ novel Crumble and The New York Times included Amy Shearn’s novel The Mermaid of Brooklyn in their roundup for best books for moms.

What’s on my iPod: You Might Think‘” by The Cars
What I’m reading: The Curse of Van Gogh by Paul Hoppe
The last person I followed on Twitter: @Coleswindell

image008-201x3001. A riveting read

The New York Daily News had this to say about Is This Tomorrow?Leavitt is a lovely writer and here she tells an absorbing story about a young, divorced mother who moves to a small town in the late ’50s where she’s not exactly welcomed.” Don’t forget to check out the book trailer for Is This Tomorrow? below.

[youtube]http://youtu.be/ExIOQMqjtzk

repeat-year-cover2. A long journey

The Repeat Year author, Andrea Lochen shares her inspiration behind the story and the long journey from the concept to the finished novel with OnMilwaukee.com.

The Love Wars by Alison Heller3. Lady Gaga heels

L. Alison Heller, author of The Love Wars opens up to Redbook on why her mid-life crisis came in the form of Lady Gaga heels and what they taught her about her own style and femininity.

Crumble_Cover 724. A mind-blowing book

Library at the End of the Universe fell in love with Fleur Philips’ novel Crumble saying, ” Once again Fleur Philips has blown my mind with her literary talent. Crumble is a novel that should not be overlooked as it has so much to say, and it is said with a skilled flair. Do me a favor and grab this book for a great summer read, then share it with your friends, local library, the nearest clinics, therapists, abuse centers, and anyone else.”

Mermaid of Brooklyn by Amy Shearn5. One of the best books for Mom (and you)

Amy Shearn’s  novel The Mermaid of Brooklyn was chosen by The New York Times as one of the best books to give your mom and yourself.