The Oscars are this month (having been delayed from their original February date this year) and this month at Open Shelf we want to channel the glitz and glamour by unfurling a proverbial red carpet and introducing a series of extra-special features and new columns. 

February is Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and of course, the month of valentines. We are debuting cryptic crosswords for all of you who love puzzles with our new column 793.73. This month, we are featuring eight clues that challenge readers to identify eight Black authors whose work is worth celebrating. And we are also featuring articles from women co-edit books, find more respectful ways to describe people and their work, want to live in good relationships on Turtle Island, and land the right job because they know how to make the most of the interview process.