Take a glimpse into the journey of Tenafly resident Sloane Levine, the current face of Hartly, a major fashion destination in Westwood. 18 From Daily Dribbles To Division III
A young Tenafly athlete’s journey of growth, grit, and gratitude.
22 Teamwork and Tradition in Tenafly
How a sport-centered couple, Tracy Wolfson and David Reichel, balance life on and off the field. IN THIS ISSUE 4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Fall Beginnings
AROUND TOWN Moving into Fall 8 PEOPLE WE KNOW Tribute to Edan Alexander
REAL ESTATE REPORT Tenafly Market Updates 28 BOOK NOOK Books for Library Card Sign-up Month 30 MY SUNDAY With Annika Dronge 32 PHOTO OP Magic in Nature
Tracy Wolfson and David Reichel at their Tenafly home.
Photograph by Justin Schwab
AFALL BEGINNINGS
AS WE TURN the page into fall, this issue of Tenafly Magazine highlights the strength, style, and spirit of our community.
We begin with a tribute to Edan Alexander, the Tenafly native and Israeli-American soldier recently freed after being held hostage in Gaza.
His safe return is a powerful reminder of resilience and hope.
We also feature CBS Sports sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson, who shares how she balanced a sportscasting career with raising three boys—alongside her husband, a full-time professional and dedicated coach. Together, they’ve built a strong, athletic family grounded in teamwork.
Juliet Schwartz, former captain of Tenafly High’s varsity basketball team, heads to the University of Rochester this fall to play Division III basketball, while Tenafly resident Sloane Levine continues to lead Hartly in Westwood as a top fashion destination.
Finally, in Annika Dronge gives us a personal look at how she spends a weekend around town.
As always, if you have story suggestions or want to share what makes Tenafly shine, I’d love to hear from you at hello@tenaflymagazine.com.
Best,
Gina Palmieri Publisher
Tenafly MAGAZINE
Publisher
Gina Palmieri
Local Editor
Jenna Demmer
Writers
Dillion Corsair
Annika Dronge
Julie Marallo
Gabrielle Marcus
Gabrielle Walters
Photographers
Damian Castillo
Brady Sansotta
Justin Schwab
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Elaine Paoloni Quilici
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Tenafly magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Tenafly, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY ALYSON BARROW
Moving Into Fall
Celebrate the change of the season with fun events around the borough!
BY JENNY JACKSON
TOGETHER WE CREATE the Tenafly we want to experience, and September gives us ample opportunities to be together as a community. Don’t miss the following events:
Tenafly Community Night
Come out and celebrate with your neighbors for this free event hosted by the Tenafly Police Department and Tenafly Recreation Department. Come
out by the Fire House and Borough Hall to enjoy a night of fun, food, and performances.
Tuesday, Sept. 9 (Rain Date Wednesday, Sept. 10) at Tenafly Borough Hall 5 to 8 p.m.
Campfire & Cocktails: A Toast to Nature
Get your ticket and don’t miss Tenafly Nature Center’s fall fundraiser. Step into a woodland wonderland lit by crackling campfires, sip handcrafted cocktails (by Hive & Honey Mobile Bar), and savor seasonal bites—all to the rhythm of live music and the crisp autumn air.
Saturday, Sept. 13 (Rain Date: Sunday, Sept. 14) at Tenafly Nature Center 6 to 9:00 p.m.
Limited tickets available for children to attend their own party on site as well! Find ticket here: https:// tenaflynaturecenter.org/fall-event/
Tenafly Summer Concert Series final show
Bring the family and a picnic at 7 p.m. for Gotham City Nonet—Grammynominated Richard Baratta’s Latin/jazz experience. Check the borough website for final event confirmations: www.tenaflynj.org
Tuesday, Sept. 2 at Huyler Park 7 to 9:00 p.m.
Get ready for Tenafly’s most festive event of the season
Fall Fest is on Oct. 19! If you would like to sign up to participate as a vendor or
Jenny Jackson serves as the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce President and Tenafly Downtown Committee Co-President. She believes in the power of business as a channel for positive impact.
enter the costume contest visit, www. tenaflychamber.org/fall-fest.
Our growing community of over 70 business organizations is actively contributing to the improvement of Tenafly. If you would like to join the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce, not only are you investing in your own business, but you are also contributing to the betterment of our town. Visit Tenaflychamber.org/about to learn more about membership.
Remember to shop the shops and dine local to keep our community strong and vibrant!
Cheers, Jenny
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNY JACKSON
hundreds of people flooding the streets to celebrate his arrival.
This summer, Edan Alexander returned to his family, friends, and home in Tenafly. Escorted into town in a black SUV, Alexander received a warm welcome, with
A Tribute to Edan Alexander
Dillion Corsair pays tribute to his close friend Edan Alexander, the Israeli soldier who has recently returned home to Tenafly after being held hostage by Hamas since its attack on Israel in October 2023.
BY DILLION CORSAIR
IN HIGH SCHOOL, Edan Alexander was the friend who you could turn to in any situation. He would keep it real with you while still taking every opportunity to hype you up. He made sure plans followed through and turned late-night drives into memorable adventures. He was one of my closest friends, alongside a group of seven other inseparable guys. While the rest of us applied for college, Edan made the brave decision to join the Israeli Army and protect the family and country he loves so much.
On Oct. 7th, 2023, we were desperate to get in touch with him, but he was unresponsive. Panic set in as names from his unit started showing up on the list of people confirmed dead. A few days later, we learned he was taken hostage.
The first news we received of Edan in captivity was during the first hostage release in November 2023. Freed hostages talked about seeing him on Oct. 7 as they were being taken into Gaza. Despite the violence and fear, he was able to calm them down, make them feel safe, and give them hope that things were going to work out.
When my friends and I heard this, we said, “That’s Edan, 100%.” We recognized him in their stories so clearly because that’s who Edan is at his core. He’s someone who is both so unbelievably strong, to have composure and
bravery in that kind of moment, and so compassionate, looking to support the people around him.
584 days in hell could not even shake that about him. My friends and I watched him on TV walk away from captivity in Hamas with his head high and in his classic confident stride.
In our first FaceTime calls with him, he made it clear that Hamas did not rob him of his spirit, sense of humor, and selflessness as he asked us about our lives.
When my friends and I reunited with him, we instantly recognized his warmth, graciousness, and maturity. Two years apart, filled with vastly different experiences (to say the least), is a big and difficult gap to cover, yet we quickly picked up where we left off. Things felt right once again. Since being back, he’s taken the time to be with his family, focus on his health and fitness, and enjoy freedom.
While we continue to pray for the release of every hostage, we thank God every day for Edan’s return, because the world is a better place with him in it.
Dillon Corsair grew up in Tenafly and graduated from Tenafly High School in 2022. He and Edan Alexander became close friends in high school and have stayed that way ever since.
FICTION FRIDAYS
What’s better than discussing a good novel? Doing it with the author!
Maine Characters with Author Hannah Orenstein Friday, 9/19, 11:30 am
Described as “The Parent Trap for adults”, this fun and well-written novel shows how grief and family secrets can either tear two sisters apart or bring them together.
You don’t need to have read the book, but it’s great if you have. Be sure to bring your copy of the book for the author to sign! Books will also be available for purchase.
Scan here to claim your spot!
Generations of Style
Take a glimpse into the journey of Tenafly resident Sloane Levine, the current face of Hartly, a major fashion destination in Westwood.
BY GABRIELLE MARCUS
HHARTLY ISN’T JUST a store— it’s a legacy. Passed down through four generations, this beloved Westwood boutique has quietly built a reputation for timeless fashion, impeccable service, and staying power. And under the leadership of Tenafly resident Sloane Levine, that legacy feels more vibrant than ever. Though the store is in Westwood, the Levine family has called Tenafly home for the past 14 years. All three of Levine’s children went through the public schools—from Maugham to Tenafly Middle School to Tenafly High School—and the family’s life has revolved around school events, local sports, and a close-knit community.
“Tenafly has a very real sense of connection,” Levine says. “People support each other here. And that means a lot.” That support extends to Hartly, too. The store has become a go-to for women in Tenafly—whether they’re dressing for a gala, a family celebration, a vacation, or simply looking for an outfit that makes them feel amazing.
Hartly first opened its doors in the Bronx in the early 1900s, relocated to Bergen County in the 1950s, and seven decades later, it remains one of the most stylish and trusted destinations in the tri-state area.
“Very few businesses can say they’re part of the fourth-generation club,” Levine reflects. “That’s not something I take lightly. My family has worked incredibly hard to grow this store and keep it fresh and exciting.”
TAKING THE REINS
Levine officially joined Hartly in the late ’90s, taking the reins from her Aunt Susan, and bringing with her a sharp eye for fashion, an intuitive sense of what women want to wear, and a talent for balancing elegance with approachability. Since then, she’s expanded the boutique twice. Today, it boasts over 6,000 square feet of space and offers everything from red carpet-worthy gowns to chic denim, beachwear, elevated everyday pieces, and a full-service alterations department to ensure every item fits just right.
People often refer to Hartly as a mini department store tucked into Bergen County, but what truly sets the store apart is the experience. Walk in on any day and you’ll find a team of stylists—many of whom
have been with Hartly for over a decade—greeting customers by name, remembering their style, and helping them purchase items that feel both personal and polished. They don’t just sell clothes; they help build wardrobes. Many people hire stylists to help them shop but Hartly’s sales associates incorporate styling as part of their job. It’s not uncommon to see people come in to shop for a vacation or a whole season!
Levine is constantly attending market appointments, fashion shows, and industry events to discover what’s next. She has a knack for finding emerging designers before they become household names and introducing them to her clients with confidence. Her goal is to offer fashion that’s current but also lasting—pieces
you’ll love five years from now as much as the day you bought them.
“My favorite thing is when someone says, ‘I still wear this dress I bought from you ten years ago,’” she says.
CREATING A LEGACY
When asked what makes her proudest, Levine doesn’t point to sales figures. Instead, she talks about the customers who keep coming back—year after year, generation after generation. The ones who trust Hartly with the most important moments in their lives, and the mothers who bring their daughters. Levine can recall many times where she has had three generations of women in the store shopping together—each one walking out with something she loves. Very few people come in just once. Her
client base is loyal and has carried on through the generations.
Hartly has also embraced the digital era in a major way. Its newly updated website and real-time social media keep customers connected to what’s in store. A single Instagram post—showing off a fresh arrival or a behind-the-scenes buying trip—is often enough to spark calls, messages, and same-day visits.
COMMUNITY IN TENAFLY
Running a business of this scale while raising three kids hasn’t been easy, but Levine makes it possible. She credits her husband Mitch for being by her side at both work and home. Her older children have even worked in the store, and her youngest is already eager to follow in her footsteps.
Levine and her family have been Tenafly residents for over a decade. Here, she poses with her husband and three children during a family dinner.
“It’s important to me that they understand what I’ve built and why I care about it,” she says. “I want them to see the value of responsibility and hard work.”
When she’s off the sales floor, Levine’s loyalty to her local favorites runs deep. You might spot her dining at 130 Club, working out at Underground Training or CoolHot Yoga, getting her nails done at Beauty Bar, or popping into Allure or Trendy Salon for a quick trim or blow-dry.
There’s something deeply personal about what Levine has built. Every garment that leaves Hartly carries her label, stitched right into the piece. It’s not just branding—it’s her signature. The logo features a bright pink heart, and to me—and so many others—it feels like a little badge of confidence. A quiet reminder that you’re wearing something curated by someone who genuinely cares how you feel in it. It’s not uncommon to be dining in Tenafly and spot a jacket tossed over the back of a chair with that little pink heart peeking out from the collar.
Fashion evolves but Hartly remains exactly what it’s always been: customerfocused, deeply rooted in style, and always worth a visit.
Gabrielle Marcus, a Tenafly resident and former New York City dweller, traded the fast pace of the city for suburban life with her husband, Brian, and their two children. Living just steps away from Manhattan, she enjoys the best of both worlds—quiet family life and the vibrant energy of Manhattan.
From Daily Dribbles To Division III
Schwartz graduated from Tenafly High School in June, eager to continue her academic and athletic journey this fall at University of Rochester.
A young Tenafly athlete’s journey of growth, grit, and gratitude.
BY GABRIELLE WALTERS
RRECENT TENAFLY High School
graduate Juliet Schwartz wrapped up her high school career with a bang. As captain of the varsity basketball team, she led her team with strength, accomplished personal bests, and served as a steady source of motivation through the team’s ups and downs. Though they faced hardships, Schwartz did her best to remain grounded and positive and always encouraged her teammates to do the same. Now, as she prepares to start college, Schwartz is bringing with her the lessons and leadership she gained both on and off the court.
STRENGTH IN SETBACKS
For as long as she can remember, Schwartz has been enthralled with basketball. Her early memories include falling asleep with a basketball in her hand and watching in awe as her two older sisters played the sport. Once she picked up the sport herself, she never looked back. “I don’t know the person I would be without it, it has changed me so much,” reflects Schwartz.
As the captain of the Tenafly varsity basketball team for both her junior and senior years, Schwartz prioritized her team’s mindset, especially during difficult moments. She credits her coach for keeping her calm when selfdoubt crept in.
“Coach Mirabito just became the head coach this year, but he’s been my mentor for the past four years. He always knows how to calm me down,” she says. As captain, she emphasized the value of keeping composure.
“When you miss a shot, wipe it out of your brain and focus on the next one,” she says.
During her junior year, Schwartz tore her ACL with eight games left in the season. She was crushed to not be on the court with her teammates but didn’t let the disappointment get the best of her. Instead, she stayed on the sidelines cheering on her team with every play. She admits there have been many times she has felt insecure during games, but she learned to quiet those limiting thoughts in order to play her best. “If you have a skill but you don’t have the confidence or the mentality to push yourself and make mistakes, you will never be able to show off your skills and the true player that you are,” says Schwartz.
As much as she enjoyed her time as a student athlete, it didn’t
come without sacrifice. She noted that there were times when she missed out on trips and social events due to games. “It wasn’t always easy, but it’s worth it when you love the sport,” she shared.
Though she has experienced lows throughout her basketball career at Tenafly High School, she also experienced highs. Most notably, scoring her 1,000 career points this past season. Who was right next to her celebrating?
None other than her co-captain and best friend, Adar Serok. “I love having my best friend on and off the court with me,” says Schwartz. “We’re like sisters. I couldn’t imagine playing without her, she encouraged me every game.”
Along with her teammates, Schwartz credits her family,
especially her father, as being an essential source of support. A huge basketball fan himself, her dad coached many of her youth teams and has always championed her growth. “He’s the first person I call after every single game,” she says. “He gives me the best constructive criticism. He’s my trainer and my number one fan. He is always texting me about basketball and always pushing me. I wouldn’t be the player that I am without him.”
PUSHING FORWARD
This fall, Schwartz begins her freshman year at the University
of Rochester where she will be playing Division III basketball. As she reflects on the last four years at Tenafly High School, she appreciates the ways in which the school system challenged her both academically and athletically.
“Everyone [at Tenafly High School] is so smart and it pushes you to do better,” says Schwartz. “It’s so competitive, which makes it tough at times, but there is so much help when you need it. The Tenafly school system has really prepared me for college.”
While she has not chosen a major yet, Schwartz is excited about what
lies ahead in the classroom and on the court. “I’m excited to play at a high level that I’m not used to and push myself into uncomfortable situations,” she shares. Her advice for girls pursuing basketball? “Have fun, smile, and don’t be too hard on yourself. No one remembers when you airball.”
Gabrielle Walters is a Tenafly Resident and small business owner. You can find her wellness products in multiple stores across Bergen County.
Schwartz scored a stellar achievement in her senior year, reaching 1,000 career points.
Teamwork and Tradition in Tenafly
How a sport-centered couple—sportscaster
Tracy Wolfson and coach David Reichel—balance life on and off the field.
BY GABRIELLE WALTERS
TTENAFLY COUPLE Tracy Wolfson and David Reichel have always been a sportscentered family. Since moving to town 17 years ago, they’ve been active members of the community, teaching their three sons and countless others in Tenafly the value of teamwork both on and off the field. With Wolfson’s longstanding role as a CBS sportscaster and Reichel’s founding of the Tenafly Recreation Lacrosse Program, the couple has become a symbol of Tenafly’s tight-knit athletic community
RISE TO THE TOP
Wolfson dreamed of her current career from the time she was just seven years old. Although she didn’t grow up in a sports-centered family, her passion for sports began early. “I was always a competitor,” says Wolfson. “I loved playing everything. I liked playing games, I liked playing sports, and I really liked following it.” With few women in the field to look up to, Wolfson carved her own path.
Determined to break into sports broadcasting, she studied communications at the University of Michigan and sought every opportunity to gain experience. From internships to early jobs at networks like HBO Sports, Oxygen Sports, and ESPN, her persistence eventually led her to CBS, where she has been a sportscaster for the last 22 years. Between this year and last year, she has won two consecutive Emmy awards for top sideline reporter.
To those looking to follow in her footsteps, Wolfson emphasizes the
Bottom: In what Wolfson views as the pinnacle of her career, she interviewed Peyton Manning during Super Bowl 50.
importance of practice and networking. “Make as many contacts in the business as you can,” she advises. “Keep those contacts, use those contacts, and follow up with them.”
The highlight of her career? Super Bowl 50, when the Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers 24-10 in Peyton Manning’s final game.
“To have that moment after the game, asking [Manning] questions not only about the win but about his potential retirement—that’s a memory I’ll never forget. It’s the pinnacle of my
career and something I dreamed about since I was a little girl.”
Wolfson credits her success not only to hard work but to having a supportive family. “We come up with our own traditions,” she says. “We have Tuesday Thanksgiving instead of Thursday Thanksgiving, and it’s one of our favorite things.” For her, it’s about balance. “For [my sons] to see a strong woman out there working, but also being a mom and doing both—that will pay dividends for them going forward.”
Right, top: Wolfson has won two Emmy rewards in a row for her work as sideline reporter.
and Reichel with their three boys.
LEGACY THROUGH LACROSSE
While Wolfson’s career has taken her on the road, Reichel has spent his working years in New York City. His commute, combined with Wolfson’s need for airport access, made Tenafly the perfect place to raise their family. As their sons got older, Reichel began coaching their basketball teams and wanted to introduce them to lacrosse, a sport he played growing up, at the University of Michigan, and later in Australia. With no local options, Reichel launched the Tenafly Recreation Lacrosse Program.
“It’s not something I ever thought I’d be so involved in,” he says. “But once I started coaching, it took on a life of its own and became such a big part of my life.”
He credits volunteers as key to the program’s success. “The biggest struggle isn’t getting kids to play, it’s finding parents to coach,” he says. “Many don’t have lacrosse experience, but we’ve been lucky to have great people step up. Without them, these teams don’t exist.” Reichel also credits Tenafly high school
varsity coach Eric Quaranti, as well as the Tenafly Recreation Department, for showing their support in every step of the way.
By providing equipment, field space management, and scheduling, the Tenafly Recreation Department has allowed the lacrosse program to flourish. The lacrosse team even teamed up with the recreation department to form Tenafly Lacrosse Day, a Saturday in the spring where the town comes out to watch the lacrosse teams play. “Lacrosse has taken a life of its own in Tenafly,” says Reichel, “and the recreation department deserves a lot of credit for that.”
Wolfson adds, “they walk around with the name Tenafly on their shirts, and David does a great job of explaining what that means.” Reichel continues, “You’re representing yourself, your family, and your community, so let’s compete in a way we can be proud of.” As a coach who helps shape character as much as skill, Reichel exemplifies Tenafly’s values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and integrity.
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
Wolfson and Reichel are grateful to raise their family in Tenafly. “Being so involved in sports has really opened up the community aspect of living in a town like this,” said Reichel. Aside from having a strong presence in the town’s athletics, they are involved in the Jewish Community Center and describe it as being an important resource in Tenafly for so many people.
“There’s so many people that we’ve met that grew up in this town and have returned and raised families here, and I think that says something about a town and a community that they want to come back here,” says Wolfson. “We only have great things to say about Tenafly and feel very fortunate that we were able to raise our kids here.”
Gabrielle Walters is a Tenafly resident and small business owner. You can find her wellness products in multiple stores across Bergen County.
Wolfson
Tenafly Market Update
It just got more expensive to sell a home in Tenafly.
THERE’S BEEN A LOT of talk lately
about New Jersey’s new mansion tax law, and for good reason—it’s going to have a real impact on a lot of Tenafly sellers.
As of July 10, 2025, the mansion tax— which buyers used to pay—is now all on the seller. And it’s no longer a flat 1%. It’s tiered, meaning the more expensive your home, the more you’ll owe. And don’t forget: There’s still the New Jersey Realty Transfer Fee, which is usually around 1% and also comes out of the seller’s pocket. Bottom line? Selling a home in Tenafly just got a lot more expensive.
NEW JERSEY’S MANSION TAX RATES
(Effective July 10, 2025)
This tax still only kicks in if your sale is over $1 million, but now the rate climbs based on price:
$1,000,000.01 – $2,000,000.00 1.0%
$2,000,000.01 – $2,500,000.00 2.0%
$2,500,000.01 – $3,000,000.00 2.5%
$3,000,000.01 – $3,500,000.00 3.0%
$3,500,000.01 and over 3.5%
WHO’S THIS REALLY HITTING?
The assumption here is that anyone selling over $1 million is “wealthy.” But let’s
be real—in Tenafly, that’s a big chunk of the market. We’re not necessarily talking about ultra-luxury properties. We’re talking about regular families who bought at the right time, renovated over the years, and are now ready for a new chapter. It’s a bold assumption to treat every seller over $1 million the same. And it doesn’t exactly reflect what’s happening on the ground.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT
Let’s say you’re listing at $2.6 million. That’s a 2.5% tax ($65,000) plus the 1% transfer fee. That’s a serious chunk of your proceeds. So, what happens? Some sellers decide to hold onto their homes and keep their great mortgage rate. Others list but bump the price to help offset the cost. And when prices go up at the top of the market? It has a ripple effect. Think of it like a tide rising — everything below moves with it.
LET’S TALK DEVELOPERS
This hits them, too. A developer selling a $4 million home is now eating a 3.5% tax— that’s $140,000. You better believe they’ll either raise the list price or pay less for the land. Either way, that squeeze hits both
sides of the deal: sellers and buyers.
IT’S EARLY DAYS, BUT IT’S REAL
This law is fresh, and we’re still watching how the market reacts. For sellers who are moving within New Jersey, maybe it feels like a wash. But for anyone thinking about downsizing, relocating, or cashing out equity, this changes the math. But don’t panic. Don’t wing it, either. Your pricing, timing, and prep all matter more now than ever.
ASK THE REALTOR
“What’s the most important room in the house?” This is asked all the time—but not every room is pulling the same weight when it comes to selling your house. If you’re going to put effort into prepping your home, focus on the heavy hitters: the kitchen, the family room, and the primary bedroom. These are your emotional anchors—where buyers imagine cooking, relaxing, and sleeping. Get those right, and the rest can follow. The laundry room? It’ll survive.
Have a question? Text (201) 292-0011 and it may be included in next month’s Real Estate Report.
Everyone knows that libraries are no longer warehouses of books, but the following novels show that they never really were. Read about all the things that go on at the library and get your library card! All novels are for adults.
BY JULIE MARALLO
THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN
by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Belle de Costa Greene is J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian. She spends decades gathering rare manuscripts and historical documents and becomes a powerful figure in New York society. But she has a secret: She was born a Black woman named Belle Marion Greener. In fact, her father was the first Black graduate of Harvard University. To gain acceptance in New York society, she pretends to be of Portuguese descent and keeps her true identity hidden.
THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY
by Matt Haig
Nora Seed discovers the Midnight Library, which contains an infinite number of books. Each book she chooses allows her to live an entirely different life. As Nora lives different lives that allow her to erase her past regrets, she realizes that the act of undoing her mistakes has consequences of its own.
OUR MISSING HEARTS
by Celeste
Ng
This dystopian novel is not like Celeste Ng’s previous work—you
should know that from the beginning. 12-year-old Bird lives with his father, a former linguist who now shelves books at the university library. Bird’s mother, a Chinese-American poet, has left the family under mysterious circumstances and her poetry has been banned in the United States. Bird has been forbidden to talk about his mother or her poetry, but when he receives a strange drawing in the mail, he is driven to find her. His quest leads him on a dangerous path, one on which libraries and librarians serve as his refuge.
THE UNDERGROUND LIBRARY
by Jennifer Ryan
The year is 1940. When Juliet Lansdown is appointed deputy librarian at the Bethnal Library near London, she is excited to get to work. Unfortunately, she is unprepared for the resistance she would face from the Head Librarian, who is not eager to take advice from a woman. Kate Upwood is happy to be working at the library for the summer but is struggling with a recent loss. Sofie Baumann is a Jewish refugee who comes to the library every day to escape her abusive employer. When the library is destroyed in the
1940 London Blitz, the three women do everything they can to save the books and form a new library in an underground shelter. Every night, the city residents hide in the shelter while the women try to lift their spirits with books. Then a series of obstacles puts the survival of the Underground Library in jeopardy.
THE LAST CHANCE LIBRARY
by Freya Sampson
Introvert June Jones works as a library assistant at the Chalcot Library in a small English village. The library is the place she feels the most comfortable, and she loves nothing more than going to work. Then the village threatens to close the library, and June is devastated. She will do anything to stop this from happening. As June fights to keep the library open, she allies with others and learns that there are people who need the library much more than she does. For them it’s not just a place to read; it is an institution they rely on. Things get even better when her old friend Alex Chen joins the fight—and it seems he might be interested in her.
Julie Marallo is the director of Tenafly Public Library.
ANNIKA DRONGE
Here’s a perfect Sunday in Tenafly, according to resident Annika Dronge.
BY ANNIKA DRONGE
Left: This year, Dronge and her husband enjoyed an enchanting evening at the Spring House for the Tenafly Nature Center spring gala. Photograph taken by Snapped Society @snappedsociety.
Right: Swimming is one of Dronge’s favorite pastimes. As summer nears a close, Dronge and her family continue to make use of the Tenafly Municipal Pool.
THERE’S SOMETHING uniquely comforting about a Sunday in Tenafly—a blend of community, family, and small-town charm that makes even the simplest day feel special. Our Sundays start slow and cozy, with the smell of oatmeal pancakes wafting through the house as I cook breakfast for my family. It’s our little ritual—soft, warm pancakes topped with fruit or maple syrup, and the laughter of kids still in their pajamas.
After breakfast, I head over to the Tenafly Pickleball Club for a morning lesson. Leonard, my instructor, is a patient and zen-like teacher who somehow makes learning the game both challenging, fun, and its lessons applicable to life beyond the court. The energy at the courts is always high, with players cheering for each other and trading tips between games.
Next stop: Tenafly Bagels. Their bagels are warm and tasty, perfectly golden. I grab a dozen (always a mix of everything, sesame, and plain), then make a quick detour to the Kosher Deli for fresh Nova lox and whitefish. For the final run, I head to Tenafly Gourmet for their endless supply of berries. Back home, it all comes together into a simple, satisfying brunch that the whole family devours.
In the afternoon, we embrace the last days of summer by heading to the Tenafly Municipal Pool. It’s a favorite spot—cool water, diving boards, and the sound of kids splashing and playing. We squeeze in a few dives and pool games with friends before
heading home.
Evening is when the magic happens. Our Kenwood Road block gathers for a neighborhood barbecue, and it’s become something of a tradition over the years. More than three generations and 16 homemade dishes line the tables—grilled veggies, ribs, fresh salads, and desserts of every kind. Laughter fills the air as the kids run between yards and adults catch up over wine.
Before the sun sets, we visit our neighbor’s butterfly nursery. He tends to them with such care and teaches the kids about the butterfly life cycle. We all learn how to spot their eggs on
the milkweed he grows and marvel at the gold dots on a chrysalis. It is magical to see caterpillars, chrysalises, and newly emerged butterflies fluttering about.
It’s these ordinary, joy-filled moments that make living in Tenafly feel truly special.
Annika Dronge is a two-time resident of Tenafly. Having grown up here, she returned with her husband and two children after living in New York City and Sweden. She runs her family guitar string company (DR Strings) based in Westwood and is also a physician.
PHOTO OP MAGIC IN NATURE
THIS SUMMER, the Tenafly Nature Center hosted its magical Fireflies and Faeries Event, full of faerie houses, fae folk, sparkly treats, and more. In this photograph courtesy of Josh Sazer, children decorate and bedazzle their own fae crowns at the faerie craft station.
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FALL Festival Festival
SUNDAY OCT. 19 12 – 5PM
SUNDAY OCT. 19 12 – 5PM
SUNDAY OCT. 19 12 – 5PM
HUYLER PARK
HUYLER PARK
HUYLER PARK
COSTUME CONTEST • ARTISAN MARKET • FOOD TRUCKS • RIDES • LIVE MUSIC & MORE!
COSTUME CONTEST • ARTISAN MARKET • FOOD TRUCKS • RIDES • LIVE MUSIC & MORE!
COSTUME CONTEST • ARTISAN MARKET • FOOD TRUCKS • RIDES • LIVE MUSIC & MORE!
