As the author of a historical novel, Tasa's Song, one question from readers always comes up: What was real and what was imagined? As bestselling historical novelist Hilary Mantel said, “History, and science too, help put our small lives in context. But if we want to meet the dead looking alive, we turn to art.”

When I decided to open a bookstore, I wanted to have a well-curated music section. I wanted to include novels where any kind of music is an integral part of the story, like Jennifer Egan’s A Visit from the Goon Squad and Nick Hornby’s High Fidelity. But also books about music, memoirs by musicians, and books about songwriting.

I remember my dad this Father’s Day, a role model who showed me the importance of giving back, of being responsible, of seeing opportunity in challenges, and in living life fully all the way to his last days. I’ve similarly encountered wonderful father figures in novels. Here are four books that reveal the value of a father teaching his children empathy and tolerance, sharing happy experiences, and demonstrating integrity.

Motherhood is complicated. Caretaker, healer, disciplinarian, coach, advocate, organizer, chauffeur, friend, college advisor, wedding planner, babysitter for grandchildren—the roles a mother plays for her children never end. As we celebrate motherhood in May, we can explore the lives of several moms through a bounty of books.

In April, three acclaimed books adapted for the screen will be in theaters nationwide. I asked film scholar Jonathan Sherman what kinds of books make good films. Read the books, view the films, and decide which meet Jonathan’s criteria.