“The Maid,” a New York Times #1 best seller selected with help from the Carlsbad community, will be the 2024 book selection for Carlsbad Reads Together, a communitywide program where everyone reads the same book at the same time, followed by a month-long series of programs and events in April. The Carlsbad City Library made the announcement today along with plans for a visit from the author on April 18.

The book can be reserved in print, digital and audio formats, in Spanish and English, through the Libby app, the library’s website and at any of the three library locations. Those who don’t already have a library card can sign up for one online or stop by a library to get one in person.

Described as Carlsbad’s biggest book club, Carlsbad Reads Together is an annual celebration that connects the community through reading books and participating in programs and events to discuss them. In addition to “The Maid,” by Nita Prose, books have been selected for teens and children.

About the books

Last year, Carlsbad library staff developed a list of 10 potential books for the 2024 program and then asked the community to weigh in. “The Maid” was the top pick based on an online survey conducted last September. Based on the program’s selection standards, books need to be published in 2018 or later, and the author must be available to attend the April event, among other criteria.

Adult selection – “The Maid” by Nita Prose

This mystery follows hotel maid Molly Gray who finds her orderly life upended when she discovers the dead body of the infamous and wealthy Charles Black in his suite, becomes the prime suspect in the case and is caught in a web of deception that she has no idea how to unravel.

“The Maid” is a # 1 New York Times bestseller and Good Morning America book club pick, and has been published in more than 40 countries.

Teen selection – “Sadie” by Courtney Summers

The story of a Serial—like podcast following the clues left behind by missing girl on a journey of revenge, with an ending you won't be able to stop talking about.

Children selection – “Detective Mole” by Camilla Pintonato

This is a charming, tongue-in-cheek picture book about a mole who exchanges his chef’s apron for a detective’s trench coat and sets out to solve his first case.

Save the Date
Meet the Author Event
Renowned author Nita Prose will be here in April for a special Q&A all about her award-winning book, “The Maid.”

Thursday, April 18, 6 to 7 p.m.
Schulman Auditorium at Dove Library
1775 Dove Lane

Additional April programs and events will be announced soon. Sign up to be notified about library programs via email.

The Carlsbad City Library would to thank the Friends of the Carlsbad Library, a nonprofit that helps fund the Carlsbad Reads Together program.