World Book Day with Wayne: Team-picked Favorites and Must-Read Recommendations

World Book Day began on April 23, 1995, to honor the deaths of famous authors, celebrate the power of literacy, and encourage interest in reading and literature. Thirty-one years later, the special day is celebrated by over one hundred countries and paired with an annual theme. This year, that theme is "Go all in."

At Wayne Bank, our teams decided to give World Book Day the attention it deserves, and go all in with an honest, personalized list of book recommendations. To curate this list, we pulled recommendations and reviews from all our departments, giving everyone a chance to share the books that have made a difference in their life. From quick comfort reads to novels that challenge you, there's a little something for everyone. Check out our recommendations below:

1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Recommended by Kelly Brooks, Assistant Community Office Manager

The Alchemist tells the story of a young shepherd who dreams of discovering a hidden treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. Guided by a series of mentors and omens, he travels across North Africa and learns that the true treasure is not just material wealth, but the journey itself. The novel is a philosophical story about following dreams, destiny, and self-discovery.

"The book is finding your own unique way in the world, listening to your heart, and taking risks," said Kelly. "It's a book that I come back to again and again, especially when I'm feeling a little lost in my own life."

2. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Recommended by Katy Doan, Assistant Vice President, Community Office Manager

The Nightingale is a historical fiction novel set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. It follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who take very different paths in resisting the occupation-one through quiet survival under dangerous conditions, the other through bold involvement in the French Resistance. The story explores love, sacrifice, and survival as both women risk everything to protect others and endure the brutality of war.

"It's gripping, deeply emotional, beautifully written, and well researched. The Nightingale is one of those stories that will stay with you long after you read it," said Katy.

3. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi

Recommended by Karen Gasper, Senior Vice President, Bank Secrecy Act Officer

This novel follows a mysterious man named Theo who arrives in the small town of Golden and quietly begins changing the lives of its residents. As he forms unexpected connections and performs simple acts of kindness, Theo brings meaning, healing, and purpose into the everyday lives of the townspeople. The story revolves around compassion, community, and the impact one person can have on many lives.

4. Madison's Mission by Susan G. Mathis

Recommended by Marianne McConeghy, Assistant Vice President, Trust Operations Officer

Madison's Mission, A Boldt Castle Story, is a romantic historical fiction based on the building of Boldt Castle on Heart Island in 1000 Islands Region of the St. Lawrence River. The book offers a tale of romance, mystery, and murder, all set on Heart and Wellesley Island. It is available on Amazon to purchase along with other books written by Susan G. Mathis about Gilded age homes from that time period.

Aside from her respect for the novel and it's author, Marianne has a unique connection to the subject and setting, for Wellesley Island happens to be her home. All the locations mentioned in the book are practically in her backyard, giving her a magical tie to the past. Marriane became a Beta reader for the author, Susan G. Mathis, and is even mentioned in the acknowledgements.

5. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman (Thursday Murder Club #1)

Recommended by Kristen Lancia, Vice President, Marketing Manager

This first book of the series follows four retirees who meet to solve cold cases for fun, until a real murder happens in their community. Using wit and experience, they step in to uncover the truth, proving they're far from done with adventure.

"What a clever, hilarious, and uplifting book (I always find murder mysteries uplifting)! I quickly fell in love with the characters and each of their wonderful quirks and idiosyncrasies," said Kristen, "I'm so glad this is a series because I am not ready to say goodbye to them yet. The whodunit had me guessing until the very end, which is not usually the case (toots one's own horn). Bravo all-around!"

6. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Recommended by Debra Renwick, IRA Specialist Deposit Operations

This epic historical drama follows Southern belle, Scarlett O'Hare, through the Civil War and Reconstruction in Georgia. The novel takes readers on a journey through the experiences and struggles of life in the 1860's, touching on classic themes of love, loss, and resilience.

Debra chose this book as her recommendation because of her love for the very last line of the novel: "After all, tomorrow is another day!" She connects the quote's demonstration of unbreakable spirit with the hope that life goes on to Wayne Bank's theme, Every Day Better ™.

7. The Crossroads by Chris Grabenstein

Recommended by Suzanne Conkling, Loan Operations Service Representative

The Crossroads follows a boy named Zack who moves to his father's hometown and discovers his new house sits near a deadly crossroads, haunted by a killer's spirit. When the ghost is unleashed during a storm, Zack becomes its target and must uncover the truth behind a decades-old tragedy to stop it.

"I was reading a book to see if it would be suitable for my son, it's something for middle schoolers," said Suzanne. "It's an attention-grabbing book that was a very entertaining read even for an adult, and would make a good spooky story to share with their kids."

8. The Great Alone by Kristen Hannah

Recommended by Chrissy Routledge, Vice President, Sullivan County Regional Manager

Another Kristen Hannah recommendation from our team!

The Great Alone is a survival drama set in 1970s Alaska. It follows teenager Leni Allbright and her parents as they move to a remote, rugged wilderness hoping for a fresh start, but instead face isolation and her father's growing instability. The novel explores survival, resilience, and the bond between mother and daughter in extreme circumstances.

"Anything written by Kristen Hannah," said Chrissy. "Her stories often center on women who lead, fight, inspire, make sacrifices, and they're all page turners!"

9. Japanese Phrasebook & Dictionary by Lonely Planet Global Limited, 10^th Edition.

Recommended by Trevor Wallace, Help Desk Service Representative

This dictionary is a compact, practical guide designed to help travelers communicate in Japanese. It includes essential phrases for everyday situations, along with a handy two-way dictionary, pronunciation tips, and cultural notes to make navigating Japan easier and more confident.

"Looking to travel to Japan, learn a new language, or just appreciate Japanese media or products? This book serves as an excellent jumping-off point. Its phrases are great for quick reference, while its grammar lessons teach you how to build your own sentences with the vocabulary you acquire from the stellar English-to-Japanese and Japanese-to-English dictionaries at the end. The culture tips spliced throughout the book taught me brand new lessons about Japanese culture beyond language," said Trevor.

10. Gone Before Goodbye by Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben

Recommended by Bernyce Maltman, Vice President, Mortgage Originator

This suspense thriller is about a woman whose life unravels after she becomes entangled in a high-stakes conspiracy tied to a mysterious disappearance. As she searches for answers, she's forced to question who she can trust while uncovering dangerous secrets that put her own life at risk.

11. Oh, The Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss

Recommended by Sandra Mruczkewycz, Community Office Manager

This motivational story encourages readers to step into life's journey with confidence. The narrator guides readers through the highs and lows they will encounter in life-successes, setbacks, confusion, and breakthroughs-while emphasizing that they have the ability to keep moving forward and shape their own paths.

"I read this so many times when my children were young, that I had the words memorized," said Sandra. "It is a great book that encourages people of all ages. It has a wonderful message about exploring the world around you and never giving up."

When Sandra's daughter moved away to college, she left her this message:

"You're off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so… get on your way!"

Go All in this World Book Day

From timeless classics to page-turning thrillers, we hope these recommendations help you find your next great read. Happy World Book Day from all of us at Wayne Bank!

To learn more about us, visit our website or visit your local Wayne Bank branch.