Despite its charming title, Little Bee is a thrill ride of violence-laden bloodshed in third world countries. It is the story of lost souls beseeching to belong, all while tentacle-like memories of their past unmercifully suffocate this need. Forget happiness. Forget comfort. This is a struggle for survival.
The story (not the book) begins with a successful young couple, Sarah and Andrew, who live outside of London. He is a columnist for the Times, and she is the editor of a fashionable women’s magazine. When Andrew discovers that Sarah is having an affair, they decide a vacation might help reconcile their marriage. Destination: Nigeria. Why? Free vouchers sent to her magazine.
Meanwhile in Nigeria, Little Bee and her older sister have been running through the sweltering, malaria-ridden jungle for several nights, hiding during the day from mercenaries hired by corrupt oil companies. These mercenaries’ orders are to clear the Nigerian villages, no matter the cost, and to leave no witnesses to tell of the deed. Little Bee and her sister, both teens who have never been outside of their village, make it out of the jungle and stumble upon Andrew and Sarah walking along the beach.
The sisters approach Andrew and Sarah, begging for help and to be taken to the resort for safety. They explain about the “men who came and…” Before the sisters can convince the couple, a military guard strongly urges Andrew and Sarah to return to their room, not wanting to tarnish their show more tourist’s vacation with the imminent danger of clandestine oil wars. Throughout this conflict, the oil men near in, threatening to drastically and forever change all their lives.
This climactic point of character confrontation right until the very end is yours to be mystified by. Without a doubt captivating and tantalizing, the author’s research not only imparts vivid environmental descriptions and accented conversations that can actually be heard, but also provides insight to what events happen around the world; events that strip humans of their basic needs and freedoms and create what we call refugees. Reviewed by Brandi, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
The story (not the book) begins with a successful young couple, Sarah and Andrew, who live outside of London. He is a columnist for the Times, and she is the editor of a fashionable women’s magazine. When Andrew discovers that Sarah is having an affair, they decide a vacation might help reconcile their marriage. Destination: Nigeria. Why? Free vouchers sent to her magazine.
Meanwhile in Nigeria, Little Bee and her older sister have been running through the sweltering, malaria-ridden jungle for several nights, hiding during the day from mercenaries hired by corrupt oil companies. These mercenaries’ orders are to clear the Nigerian villages, no matter the cost, and to leave no witnesses to tell of the deed. Little Bee and her sister, both teens who have never been outside of their village, make it out of the jungle and stumble upon Andrew and Sarah walking along the beach.
The sisters approach Andrew and Sarah, begging for help and to be taken to the resort for safety. They explain about the “men who came and…” Before the sisters can convince the couple, a military guard strongly urges Andrew and Sarah to return to their room, not wanting to tarnish their show more tourist’s vacation with the imminent danger of clandestine oil wars. Throughout this conflict, the oil men near in, threatening to drastically and forever change all their lives.
This climactic point of character confrontation right until the very end is yours to be mystified by. Without a doubt captivating and tantalizing, the author’s research not only imparts vivid environmental descriptions and accented conversations that can actually be heard, but also provides insight to what events happen around the world; events that strip humans of their basic needs and freedoms and create what we call refugees. Reviewed by Brandi, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
How does one review the 13th book in a series spanning decades? Anyone unfamiliar with the work is bound to ignore any opinions about it, and anyone who has kept up will already be waiting with eager hands to grab their copy. Towers of Midnight, the newest tome from the mind of Robert Jordan (and “translated” by Brandon Sanderson), gives fans of the series pretty much what they might expect. With only one final, gigantic book left in The Wheel of Time series, one would expect it to start wrapping up the hundreds of loose threads still present within the tale. Thankfully, it does.
For anyone unfamiliar, Robert Jordan is no longer with us. He died before finishing Book 12 of the series, and left his legacy to his wife and to his editor. They chose Brandon Sanderson to pen the rest of the story, with notes enough from Jordan to do that and more, and in Books 12 and 13 Sanderson has shown a remarkable ability to retain the style and tone that marks the entire series. It is clear that he is both a fan and a student of Jordan, and while an accomplished author in his own right with a top-notch fantasy series of his own written and completed, in many ways these final three books of The Wheel of Time will mark his highest achievement. That sounds strange, considering he didn’t even begin the saga of Rand, Mat, and Perrin. Its closest similarity is that of a royal succession, where one man rises up and creates a kingdom, and his worthy heir continues its benevolent rule.
With show more Towers of Midnight, a title with literal and metaphorical significance, we are taken once again on a journey fraught with intrigue, deceit, prophecy, and power struggles. Rand has defeated his own madness and embraced his history, but now must right a world that he almost destroyed. Perrin has rescued his wife, but still faces armies and the inner wolf, as well as a familiar foe in his own dreams. Mat, hunted and jumping at shadows, has a damsel in distress rescue on his mind, but knows there will be a price despite his luck. These are the cores of the story, with ancillary tales from Egwene, Elayne, Aviendha, and others revolving around our three ta’veren. Again, this is not a book someone can jump into without having been deeply invested in the rest of the series. It may sound elitist, but to attempt Towers of Midnight without a clear understanding of the history is like swimming before you’ve learned to crawl.
I don’t say this to discourage readers from an attempt at the book, it’s merely a warning. I would strongly encourage anyone who hasn’t read the series to go pick up The Eye of the World right now and begin the adventure. It will be long, it will confuse you at times, and you may even stop halfway through and move on to shorter yarns, but anyone who sticks it out will not only be impressed that something can last so long and retain so much integrity, but they’ll also find a cast of characters that they’ll never forget, and a set of legends that will never fade. With only one book left, it’s all becoming a little bittersweet, but that doesn’t make it any less wonderful to read. Reviewed by David, Three Rivers Public Library show less
For anyone unfamiliar, Robert Jordan is no longer with us. He died before finishing Book 12 of the series, and left his legacy to his wife and to his editor. They chose Brandon Sanderson to pen the rest of the story, with notes enough from Jordan to do that and more, and in Books 12 and 13 Sanderson has shown a remarkable ability to retain the style and tone that marks the entire series. It is clear that he is both a fan and a student of Jordan, and while an accomplished author in his own right with a top-notch fantasy series of his own written and completed, in many ways these final three books of The Wheel of Time will mark his highest achievement. That sounds strange, considering he didn’t even begin the saga of Rand, Mat, and Perrin. Its closest similarity is that of a royal succession, where one man rises up and creates a kingdom, and his worthy heir continues its benevolent rule.
With show more Towers of Midnight, a title with literal and metaphorical significance, we are taken once again on a journey fraught with intrigue, deceit, prophecy, and power struggles. Rand has defeated his own madness and embraced his history, but now must right a world that he almost destroyed. Perrin has rescued his wife, but still faces armies and the inner wolf, as well as a familiar foe in his own dreams. Mat, hunted and jumping at shadows, has a damsel in distress rescue on his mind, but knows there will be a price despite his luck. These are the cores of the story, with ancillary tales from Egwene, Elayne, Aviendha, and others revolving around our three ta’veren. Again, this is not a book someone can jump into without having been deeply invested in the rest of the series. It may sound elitist, but to attempt Towers of Midnight without a clear understanding of the history is like swimming before you’ve learned to crawl.
I don’t say this to discourage readers from an attempt at the book, it’s merely a warning. I would strongly encourage anyone who hasn’t read the series to go pick up The Eye of the World right now and begin the adventure. It will be long, it will confuse you at times, and you may even stop halfway through and move on to shorter yarns, but anyone who sticks it out will not only be impressed that something can last so long and retain so much integrity, but they’ll also find a cast of characters that they’ll never forget, and a set of legends that will never fade. With only one book left, it’s all becoming a little bittersweet, but that doesn’t make it any less wonderful to read. Reviewed by David, Three Rivers Public Library show less
On May 18th, 1927 at 8:45 a.m. in Bath, Michigan, a massive explosion shook the north wing of the Bath Consolidated School. The initial explosion killed thirty-six children and two teachers, a second explosion killed two adult bystanders, a child, and the school superintendent. A total of fifty-eight children and adults were injured. West of the school the Kohoe farm was reduced to embers, among the remains was Nellie Kohoe. Andrew P. Kohoe, later to become known as the bomber, died in the second explosion.
Bath became an official township in 1843 with a single one-room schoolhouse. The town continued to grow and on November 12, 1921 a vote was held to consolidate the multiple one-room schools into a single educational system. Emory E. Huyck was hired to be the superintendent and a board was elected. Bath Consolidated School had become a reality. Huyck managed to get the school accredited in three years.
Andrew P. Kohoe moved to Bath in 1919 with his wife Nellie. Kohoe was a hard working farmer who was obsessively neat, clean and orderly and who was knowledgeable and passionate about electricity. Kohoe was elected trustee on the school board and was soon elected treasurer because of his penny-pinching and meticulous ways of dealing with accounts. Kohoe, however, did not like superintendent Huyck and the tension between the two was quite noticeable.
May 18, 1927 began as a beautiful ordinary spring morning. Children were sent off to their last day of school with excitement. show more The massive explosion at 8:45 a.m. that was heard throughout the area changed the lives of the residents of Bath and the surrounding areas forever. This book is filled with the history of the main players in the tragedy and the events that led up to the terrible mass murder and suicide that happened that day. The accounts of destruction and survival that are recorded in this book are chilling. The history of this heartbreaking event has been forgotten by many and overshadowed by more current school tragedies; however, the survivors will never forget. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
Bath became an official township in 1843 with a single one-room schoolhouse. The town continued to grow and on November 12, 1921 a vote was held to consolidate the multiple one-room schools into a single educational system. Emory E. Huyck was hired to be the superintendent and a board was elected. Bath Consolidated School had become a reality. Huyck managed to get the school accredited in three years.
Andrew P. Kohoe moved to Bath in 1919 with his wife Nellie. Kohoe was a hard working farmer who was obsessively neat, clean and orderly and who was knowledgeable and passionate about electricity. Kohoe was elected trustee on the school board and was soon elected treasurer because of his penny-pinching and meticulous ways of dealing with accounts. Kohoe, however, did not like superintendent Huyck and the tension between the two was quite noticeable.
May 18, 1927 began as a beautiful ordinary spring morning. Children were sent off to their last day of school with excitement. show more The massive explosion at 8:45 a.m. that was heard throughout the area changed the lives of the residents of Bath and the surrounding areas forever. This book is filled with the history of the main players in the tragedy and the events that led up to the terrible mass murder and suicide that happened that day. The accounts of destruction and survival that are recorded in this book are chilling. The history of this heartbreaking event has been forgotten by many and overshadowed by more current school tragedies; however, the survivors will never forget. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
The Hunger Games is a book you will either find in the Science Fiction or Young Adult sections of a library or book store, but I would place it in neither section for fear that it wouldn’t receive the recognition it deserves. This isn’t to say that Science Fiction or Young Adult books aren’t worthy of recognition or that they aren’t noticed, J.K. Rowling would have a thing or two to say on that score, but The Hunger Games really isn’t either. It stars a
16-year old girl named Katniss Everdeen, and takes place in a type of dystopian future in these very United States, but it’s as much Science Fiction as something from Margaret Atwood, and its young protagonists are hardly put into young adult situations. The book is certainly fiction, however, as anyone who reads through it will surely appreciate because The Hunger Games, like The
Running Man before it, is the story of a bloodthirsty competition between teenagers, televised for the whole country to see, and the games only end when one person is left alive.
The setting of The Hunger Games, as mentioned, is a United States set sometime in the future after some unnamed apocalypse has left just one grand city called
Panem, the Capitol of both itself and its 12 outlying districts. Katniss Everdeen is a young girl from District 12, a coal-mining settlement, and her life is one of dreary survival because while things are wonderful within the
city of Panem itself, the outlying districts are given little and expected to show more provide much, in many cases treated no better than slaves. Nevertheless, things get worse when Katniss’ younger sister Prim is picked for the Hunger Games, forcing Katniss to volunteer to take her place. Together with a young man named Peeta Melark, she travels to the Capitol to join in the fanfare and splendor of the Games.
The theme of arena combat is one we’ve seen both in books and movies for decades. Gladatorial combat is nothing new to society’s history. People like watching violence, something even present within our own sports-addled country, and its potentially only a matter of time before MMA-style ring fights reform back into the blood-sports from which they descend. The Hunger Games
crystallizes this theory into reality, and shows a more human side of that possibility. Collins dictates what lengths people will go to survive, but perhaps more importantly what lengths people will go to in order to retain their humanity. And The Hunger Games is just the beginning, with two books following it in one of the best trilogies I’ve read in years.
The Hunger Games can be found in the Science Fiction section of the Three Rivers Library. Reviewed by David, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
16-year old girl named Katniss Everdeen, and takes place in a type of dystopian future in these very United States, but it’s as much Science Fiction as something from Margaret Atwood, and its young protagonists are hardly put into young adult situations. The book is certainly fiction, however, as anyone who reads through it will surely appreciate because The Hunger Games, like The
Running Man before it, is the story of a bloodthirsty competition between teenagers, televised for the whole country to see, and the games only end when one person is left alive.
The setting of The Hunger Games, as mentioned, is a United States set sometime in the future after some unnamed apocalypse has left just one grand city called
Panem, the Capitol of both itself and its 12 outlying districts. Katniss Everdeen is a young girl from District 12, a coal-mining settlement, and her life is one of dreary survival because while things are wonderful within the
city of Panem itself, the outlying districts are given little and expected to show more provide much, in many cases treated no better than slaves. Nevertheless, things get worse when Katniss’ younger sister Prim is picked for the Hunger Games, forcing Katniss to volunteer to take her place. Together with a young man named Peeta Melark, she travels to the Capitol to join in the fanfare and splendor of the Games.
The theme of arena combat is one we’ve seen both in books and movies for decades. Gladatorial combat is nothing new to society’s history. People like watching violence, something even present within our own sports-addled country, and its potentially only a matter of time before MMA-style ring fights reform back into the blood-sports from which they descend. The Hunger Games
crystallizes this theory into reality, and shows a more human side of that possibility. Collins dictates what lengths people will go to survive, but perhaps more importantly what lengths people will go to in order to retain their humanity. And The Hunger Games is just the beginning, with two books following it in one of the best trilogies I’ve read in years.
The Hunger Games can be found in the Science Fiction section of the Three Rivers Library. Reviewed by David, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
In Water for Elephants, we meet Jacob Jankowski, a 93 year old man residing in an assisted living facility. He is bored, tired, a little grouchy, and hungry for something other than tapioca pudding with a thin film on top. When the wheelchair ladies are gathered by a window one day, watching the Big Top tent of a circus being erected down the street, he begins to reminisce about his past life. During the depression, Jacob was a student of veterinary medicine at Cornell, about to take his final exams. When his parents are killed in an accident, his world changes and he jumps a train. Within 48 hours Jake finds himself working as the vet for The Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth.
As he travels aboard the circus train, he befriends unforgettable characters including a dwarf named Walter and his beloved Jack Russell, Queenie, and Camel, a drunk who can’t get enough moonshine, and when that’s not available, enjoys the toxic substitute known as “jake.” He also gets to know the ‘cooch tent’ girls, but his most beloved circus companion is Marlena, the famous equestrian performer whose husband, August, oversees the menagerie of animals. When the circus obtains an elephant named Rosie it is Jake who figures out how to train the beast, though not before August looses his temper, beating her repeatedly with the elephant prod. As Jake secretly falls in love with Marlena, August’s fits of rage and abuse run out of control, and something must be done to save show more Marlena and Rosie.
As the story unfolds, the reader is immersed into the world of circus by train, a popular, yet seedy pastime during this country’s era of depression and despair. We see Jacob as the brave young man, and the desperate 93 year old, searching for something to hold onto in his old age. Without giving too much of the story away, I can assure you will laugh out loud and cry as Jacob narrates his tale. Readers will not be disappointed.
Look for Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon in the upcoming movie adaptation of the beloved novel. Reviewed by Rebecca, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
As he travels aboard the circus train, he befriends unforgettable characters including a dwarf named Walter and his beloved Jack Russell, Queenie, and Camel, a drunk who can’t get enough moonshine, and when that’s not available, enjoys the toxic substitute known as “jake.” He also gets to know the ‘cooch tent’ girls, but his most beloved circus companion is Marlena, the famous equestrian performer whose husband, August, oversees the menagerie of animals. When the circus obtains an elephant named Rosie it is Jake who figures out how to train the beast, though not before August looses his temper, beating her repeatedly with the elephant prod. As Jake secretly falls in love with Marlena, August’s fits of rage and abuse run out of control, and something must be done to save show more Marlena and Rosie.
As the story unfolds, the reader is immersed into the world of circus by train, a popular, yet seedy pastime during this country’s era of depression and despair. We see Jacob as the brave young man, and the desperate 93 year old, searching for something to hold onto in his old age. Without giving too much of the story away, I can assure you will laugh out loud and cry as Jacob narrates his tale. Readers will not be disappointed.
Look for Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon in the upcoming movie adaptation of the beloved novel. Reviewed by Rebecca, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
Life of Pi by Yann Martel begins by illustrating a boy’s love for two very opposite schools of learning: zoology and religion. Identifying himself as a Christian, Muslim and a Hindu, he faces the questioning of family members, members of the religious sects for which he admires. As the story unfolds, a shocking turn of events takes place and the boy called Pi is suddenly faced with the scariest, most unusual of situations. He finds himself stranded with only his knowledge, instincts, and immeasurable faith to guide him. The reader of Life of Pi will be faced with a choice, like Pi himself, who endured what most could not survive. The curious ending of Life of Pi leaves the reader questioning; however, the events that lead up to it will wrap one’s mind in emotional satisfaction and awe. Reviewed by Becky, Three Rivers Public Library
It’s morel mushroom season and what a great time for this book to come out! Local author, Vic Eichler, describes the basics to distinguish morel mushrooms by shape and color from “false morels.” Vic goes on to talk about what we know about morels, their growth cycle and factors that aid in the hunt such as climate, environment and biological associations. The author then describes ways to preserve morels and gives information about their nutritional value. This book is wonderfully illustrated with pen and ink drawings by Marianne Ruth Beard. The drawings show both whole and cut morels. As an added bonus, the book includes recipes from award-winning chef Joseph Krumholz of the Jordan Inn in East Jordan, Michigan. Some of the recipes included are Morel Bisque, Morel Mushroom Gravy, and Morel Sausage. Reviewed by Holly, Three Rivers Public Library
In American Salvage, National Book Award Finalist and Michigan native, Bonnie Jo Campbell introduces an array of characters that have one common goal: survival. Joblessness, meth addiction, abuse and desperation; the themes illustrate struggle and demise of the working class in rural America. Campbell’s graphic details and raw imagery combine, submerging the reader into her literary prose. These stories are unique, vivid and relatable. Bonnie Jo Campbell succeeds in bringing to life the not-so-glamorous aspects of our Michigan culture, yet leaves the reader hopeful that even the most damaged of beings can be rescued. Reviewed by Becky, Three Rivers Public Library.
This novel depicts the thick air of bigotry and oppression by several protagonists in this convincing account of what it was like to be a domestic servant before civil rights advancements in Jackson, Mississippi. The story comes into play by a daring and hopeful young journalist, Skeeter, who is willing to sacrifice everything that her life has been modeled into to write a book recounting the personal stories of a dozen domestic servants -what it was like, how they were treated, and how they felt about it. What Skeeter is willing to sacrifice is miniscule compared to the consequences the women whose stories are told could face should their identities become known. The book drifts between Skeeter's secretive writing, her personal life, and the lives of the other main characters, Aibileen and Minny, and the families that they work for. It is a well written story that wraps up loose ends and dispenses retribution and new beginnings like candy at a parade. Although the story is fictional, the author draws from her own days growing up in Mississippi. Reviewed by Brandi, Three Rivers Public Library.
Casebook: Ghosts and Poltergeists (Top-Secret Graphica: the Terminal Diner Mysteries) by Justine Fontes
Are you looking for a new and exciting series for your elementary age child? Does your child love reading mysteries or learning about the mysterious world we live in? Is your child a graphic novel fan? If the answer is yes to any or all of the above then the Three Rivers Public Library has a great new series for them to enjoy. Top Secret Graphica Mysteries is a new series that makes learning about the wonders around us fun. Each book brings us the same main characters and a different mystery to research and explore.
Let’s meet the main characters. Edward Icarus Stein, known as “Einstein,” loves science and strives to live up to live up to his nickname. Einstein’s greatest invention so far is the Virtual Visor that allows the group to pursue many different adventures from the safety of home. The visors simulate locations and experiences based upon uploaded facts and other data. “Spacey Tracy” Lee is a straight-A student who loves gymnastics and the cello. Tracy is trying to be more mature and lose the nickname. Clarita Gonzales wants to be an adventurous archaeologist. She is a tomboy who plays soccer and is into martial arts. Her interest in archaeology is an asset to the group. “Freaky Frank” Phillips got his nickname because of his uncanny “extra senses.” Frank always seems to know when someone is lying or up to no good. He is always up for adventure with his friends.
Each book in the series covers a different adventure and mystery that the four show more friends learn about and try to solve. In the book Casebook: Atlantis the friends share the story of Atlantis and the different research that has been done through the years on whether or not it exists. Casebook: The Bermuda Triangle deals with the different disappearances and possible causes. In Casebook: Bigfoot the group goes on an adventure through the woods to find out if Bigfoot is alive or if the sightings are false. Casebook: Ghosts explores spirits and the different reasons that could explain these strange phenomena. Casebook: The Loch Ness Monster describes the story of “Nessie” and the many sightings that surround her and possible explanations of what she could be. Casebook: UFOs and Alien Encounters describes Roswell, alien abductions, alien encounters and UFO sightings. In Casebook: Vampires and Casebook: Werewolves the team explores different tales these creatures and seeks the truth behind the myths.
At the end of each book there is a fact file, a find out for yourself guide, and web sites that you can visit to learn more about each mystery. The fantastic images are done in bright bold colors that capture the attention of many young readers. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Let’s meet the main characters. Edward Icarus Stein, known as “Einstein,” loves science and strives to live up to live up to his nickname. Einstein’s greatest invention so far is the Virtual Visor that allows the group to pursue many different adventures from the safety of home. The visors simulate locations and experiences based upon uploaded facts and other data. “Spacey Tracy” Lee is a straight-A student who loves gymnastics and the cello. Tracy is trying to be more mature and lose the nickname. Clarita Gonzales wants to be an adventurous archaeologist. She is a tomboy who plays soccer and is into martial arts. Her interest in archaeology is an asset to the group. “Freaky Frank” Phillips got his nickname because of his uncanny “extra senses.” Frank always seems to know when someone is lying or up to no good. He is always up for adventure with his friends.
Each book in the series covers a different adventure and mystery that the four show more friends learn about and try to solve. In the book Casebook: Atlantis the friends share the story of Atlantis and the different research that has been done through the years on whether or not it exists. Casebook: The Bermuda Triangle deals with the different disappearances and possible causes. In Casebook: Bigfoot the group goes on an adventure through the woods to find out if Bigfoot is alive or if the sightings are false. Casebook: Ghosts explores spirits and the different reasons that could explain these strange phenomena. Casebook: The Loch Ness Monster describes the story of “Nessie” and the many sightings that surround her and possible explanations of what she could be. Casebook: UFOs and Alien Encounters describes Roswell, alien abductions, alien encounters and UFO sightings. In Casebook: Vampires and Casebook: Werewolves the team explores different tales these creatures and seeks the truth behind the myths.
At the end of each book there is a fact file, a find out for yourself guide, and web sites that you can visit to learn more about each mystery. The fantastic images are done in bright bold colors that capture the attention of many young readers. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library show less
In her newest cookbook Nigella Christmas, British-born Nigella Lawson, warms our stomachs and hearts with delicious recipes and anecdotes. Nigella’s introduction boldly states that she didn’t originally plan on writing a Christmas/holiday cookbook – ever; but she goes on to say that she greatly enjoyed writing this book. Nigella looks at Christmas and the holiday season not really as a religious time but more as a time to connect with those around her. That is why the book is subtitled food, family, friends, and festivities.
Nigella is a very down-to-earth cook and writer. She loves to eat and she loves to cook and this shows in her recipes and the anecdotes included with each section and recipe. She prefers to entertain and mingle with her guests, not slave away in the kitchen. Most of her recipes have notes about what can be made ahead of time and what needs to be done last minute.
Gorgeous pictures of food are set alongside easy-to-follow recipes that give the cook of any level the confidence to put on a beautiful holiday spread for just a few or for quite a crowd. This book gives you everything you could wish for when planning your holiday feast: from party canapés and catering for larger groups to menu plans for different sized groups. Even included is a section on quick and easy homemade gifts (chutneys, preserves, and other delectable standbys) and edible tree decorations.
Nigella covers all the bases with her holiday cookbook. Many of her mouthwatering show more recipes could be used year-round but they make for entertaining family and friends over the holidays with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment. This book will make you want to rush right home to cook up the fantastic feasts and scrumptious treats. This lovely British lady has outdone herself again in urging us to slow down and enjoy the holiday season with food, family, friends and festivities. Reviewed by Kim. show less
Nigella is a very down-to-earth cook and writer. She loves to eat and she loves to cook and this shows in her recipes and the anecdotes included with each section and recipe. She prefers to entertain and mingle with her guests, not slave away in the kitchen. Most of her recipes have notes about what can be made ahead of time and what needs to be done last minute.
Gorgeous pictures of food are set alongside easy-to-follow recipes that give the cook of any level the confidence to put on a beautiful holiday spread for just a few or for quite a crowd. This book gives you everything you could wish for when planning your holiday feast: from party canapés and catering for larger groups to menu plans for different sized groups. Even included is a section on quick and easy homemade gifts (chutneys, preserves, and other delectable standbys) and edible tree decorations.
Nigella covers all the bases with her holiday cookbook. Many of her mouthwatering show more recipes could be used year-round but they make for entertaining family and friends over the holidays with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment. This book will make you want to rush right home to cook up the fantastic feasts and scrumptious treats. This lovely British lady has outdone herself again in urging us to slow down and enjoy the holiday season with food, family, friends and festivities. Reviewed by Kim. show less
Do you like to learn interesting facts about our close cousin the gorilla? Nancy Roe Pimm’s book The Heart of the Beast is the book for you if you really do enjoy true gorilla stories and facts. The eight amazing stories in this book will open your mind and give you new insight into the lives of these magnificent beasts. The interesting facts that are found after each story provide an even deeper look into what these creatures are and how they live.
The first story is about Binti Jua and it asks this question: Is the maternal instinct in gorillas as strong as it is in humans, or is it just natural instinct? Binti Jua rescues a young boy when he falls into her habitat. Onlookers are horrified and then amazed by what happens. Also, did you know that adult gorillas have the same number of hairs per square inch as humans?
The third story is about Willie B, a captured gorilla who loves to watch people and to chew gum. Willie B was given a television for his twenty-fifth birthday, but still he would rather watch the visitors to the zoo. Three decades after capture, Willie B lost his solitary life and gained a couple of female gorilla friends. In 2000 Willie B, died and a memorial was quickly built in his honor. Willie gives us a story of hope that gorillas in capture can live long and healthy lives. Also, did you know that gorillas build nests to sleep in?
A rare white gorilla is the center of the fourth story. Snowflake has a rare genetic disorder that stops pigment growth show more known as Albinism. First raised by humans and then sent to a zoo, Snowflake gained a friend at age four. Neither gorilla showed any sign of caring what color the other was, a good lesson for all of us. Also, did you know that the estimated life span of a gorilla is up to fifty years?
Koko’s story of friendship is the fifth one. Koko, who learned sign language and could respond to spoken language, adopted a young male kitten as her own. She treated him as if he were her own baby. When her “baby” kitten died of old age, Koko got another one. Koko’s story is one of friendship and learning. Numerous books have been written about Koko, most notably, Koko’s Kitten. Also, did you know that gorillas can learn sign language but cannot talk?
The final story is one of farewell. Babs who was the matriarch of her troop, died of kidney disease at 30 years of age. The zookeepers allowed a “funeral” viewing for the gorilla troop and found that each member said good bye in his or her own way, much as humans do. Also, did you know that many people believe that gorillas are just unfeeling beasts?
In learning about the different ways that these amazing gorillas communicate and show how they care for each other, maybe you can decide for yourself if they are just ferocious beasts, or if they are more like humans than we currently think. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library show less
The first story is about Binti Jua and it asks this question: Is the maternal instinct in gorillas as strong as it is in humans, or is it just natural instinct? Binti Jua rescues a young boy when he falls into her habitat. Onlookers are horrified and then amazed by what happens. Also, did you know that adult gorillas have the same number of hairs per square inch as humans?
The third story is about Willie B, a captured gorilla who loves to watch people and to chew gum. Willie B was given a television for his twenty-fifth birthday, but still he would rather watch the visitors to the zoo. Three decades after capture, Willie B lost his solitary life and gained a couple of female gorilla friends. In 2000 Willie B, died and a memorial was quickly built in his honor. Willie gives us a story of hope that gorillas in capture can live long and healthy lives. Also, did you know that gorillas build nests to sleep in?
A rare white gorilla is the center of the fourth story. Snowflake has a rare genetic disorder that stops pigment growth show more known as Albinism. First raised by humans and then sent to a zoo, Snowflake gained a friend at age four. Neither gorilla showed any sign of caring what color the other was, a good lesson for all of us. Also, did you know that the estimated life span of a gorilla is up to fifty years?
Koko’s story of friendship is the fifth one. Koko, who learned sign language and could respond to spoken language, adopted a young male kitten as her own. She treated him as if he were her own baby. When her “baby” kitten died of old age, Koko got another one. Koko’s story is one of friendship and learning. Numerous books have been written about Koko, most notably, Koko’s Kitten. Also, did you know that gorillas can learn sign language but cannot talk?
The final story is one of farewell. Babs who was the matriarch of her troop, died of kidney disease at 30 years of age. The zookeepers allowed a “funeral” viewing for the gorilla troop and found that each member said good bye in his or her own way, much as humans do. Also, did you know that many people believe that gorillas are just unfeeling beasts?
In learning about the different ways that these amazing gorillas communicate and show how they care for each other, maybe you can decide for yourself if they are just ferocious beasts, or if they are more like humans than we currently think. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Chuck Palahniuk has explored some dark and strange places. He’s crafted tales of pornography, multiple personality disorders, and disfigured divas. He has taken his readers to some of the seediest places on earth, astonishing and scaring at nearly every turn. But he’s no shock jock out to get a cheap chuckle or to embarrass an unwitting church girl. He doesn’t write pulp. He writes some of the best fiction of this decade, possibly even this century if you were to ask this reader. And he’s always pushing the envelope. His latest work is perhaps his most innovative, and probably the hardest to read. It is called Pygmy, and its protagonist is…well that’s a little difficult to say. One thing we know from the outset is that Pygmy barely speaks English, and you’ll be a little surprised to know that his narration of the events in the book never corrects this deficiency.
On the surface, the story is about Pygmy’s migration to the United States into a middle class white family. The story is really about the undercover operations of Pygmy and his comrades in their efforts to destroy America using something they vaguely refer to as “Operation Havoc.” It is never said where Pygmy comes from, and Pygmy isn’t even his name (it was given him by his classmates presumably because of his appearance). What is stressed is that his country is militant, probably communist, and has a hatred of the West and the United States in particular. Guesses could be made as to what show more country it is, but it hardly matters in the context of the book. All one really needs to know is that there is a band of communist-programmed sociopaths roaming the high school halls and that this is the story of their leader.
There is a pattern to most Palahniuk books that follows the tease, hide, and reveal pattern. In Fight Club we were teased with images of Tyler Durden, had his true nature hidden from us, then had the mind blowing revelation of his truth shown to us at the end. Pygmy doesn’t change this formula much. Operation Havoc is the tease, the hidden bit, and the revelation.
I suppose the real question is: how does it stack up? The problem with Chuck Palahniuk is that he is constantly competing with his former self. It’s hard to top his classics. I would not say that Pygmy tops any of his former works either. It fits right in, and the language conventions and liberalities used throughout make it stand out all on its own.
There is a problem with the language that may make it difficult for many readers, even dedicated fans, to parse through the book. It’s very difficult to read. If you can imagine what an immigrant coming to this country with a very warped sense of the English language can sound like while trying to communicate with U.S. natives, then maybe you’ll get the gist of what this book tries to convey. And it does get easier to read as the book progresses, not because the language changes at all, but rather because the eyes and the mind become accustomed to the rhythm and oddness of the stilted phrases.
Despite all that, and maybe even because of it, Pygmy is more than worth reading. The characters are some of Palahniuk’s best (Pygmy in particular is as charming as a cold blooded killer can be who barely speaks English), and the story very much keeps you guessing and intrigued. I applaud Palahniuk for taking such risks both in story and wordplay lately, even if it makes his writing more niche than ever before. Niche or no, Pygmy is something every fan and enthusiast should pick up and devour at the first opportunity.
Reviewed by David Stewart, Three Rivers Public Library show less
On the surface, the story is about Pygmy’s migration to the United States into a middle class white family. The story is really about the undercover operations of Pygmy and his comrades in their efforts to destroy America using something they vaguely refer to as “Operation Havoc.” It is never said where Pygmy comes from, and Pygmy isn’t even his name (it was given him by his classmates presumably because of his appearance). What is stressed is that his country is militant, probably communist, and has a hatred of the West and the United States in particular. Guesses could be made as to what show more country it is, but it hardly matters in the context of the book. All one really needs to know is that there is a band of communist-programmed sociopaths roaming the high school halls and that this is the story of their leader.
There is a pattern to most Palahniuk books that follows the tease, hide, and reveal pattern. In Fight Club we were teased with images of Tyler Durden, had his true nature hidden from us, then had the mind blowing revelation of his truth shown to us at the end. Pygmy doesn’t change this formula much. Operation Havoc is the tease, the hidden bit, and the revelation.
I suppose the real question is: how does it stack up? The problem with Chuck Palahniuk is that he is constantly competing with his former self. It’s hard to top his classics. I would not say that Pygmy tops any of his former works either. It fits right in, and the language conventions and liberalities used throughout make it stand out all on its own.
There is a problem with the language that may make it difficult for many readers, even dedicated fans, to parse through the book. It’s very difficult to read. If you can imagine what an immigrant coming to this country with a very warped sense of the English language can sound like while trying to communicate with U.S. natives, then maybe you’ll get the gist of what this book tries to convey. And it does get easier to read as the book progresses, not because the language changes at all, but rather because the eyes and the mind become accustomed to the rhythm and oddness of the stilted phrases.
Despite all that, and maybe even because of it, Pygmy is more than worth reading. The characters are some of Palahniuk’s best (Pygmy in particular is as charming as a cold blooded killer can be who barely speaks English), and the story very much keeps you guessing and intrigued. I applaud Palahniuk for taking such risks both in story and wordplay lately, even if it makes his writing more niche than ever before. Niche or no, Pygmy is something every fan and enthusiast should pick up and devour at the first opportunity.
Reviewed by David Stewart, Three Rivers Public Library show less
I’ve got three books for your summer reading pleasure. They are made for either lying on the hammock in the back yard or on a towel at the beach. The first one is Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen. It is the amusing story of Lady Georgiana (Georgie), thirty-fourth in line for the throne of England. It is set in the early 19th century when Mrs. Simpson and the Prince of Wales were scandalizing society with their affair. Being thirty-fourth in line to the throne and the sister of a land-poor Earl and his penny-pinching wife who tells her that they can’t afford to continue supporting her, Georgie finds herself in London, living alone (unheard of for a young lady of society) in the family home. Quickly tiring of fending for herself and existing on tea and biscuits, she goes in search of a job. There isn’t much opportunity for a lady trained only in the social skills, so she decides to make a niche for herself using those very talents. She has an opportunity to observe that there were many visiting businessmen alone in London and was sure that she could earn a living by offering her services as an intelligent, educated escort. Was it her fault that people misinterpreted her ad? Scotland Yard uses this as an excuse to get her involved in the investigation of a possible plot to kill the heirs to the throne. Her job is to go to Scotland with the Prince’s court and ascertain whether or not this could be an insider plot. Could her on-again, off-again male friend Darcy be involved? show more Who could possibly benefit from eliminating all of the heirs? It’s a conundrum that Georgie must solve before anyone is killed.
The second book is Knock Out by Catherine Coulter. This is a continuation of her FBI series with husband and wife team Savich and Sherlock. If your description of a really good book includes words like “eerie” or “weird” or “spooky,” and you are really interested in the supernatural, then this book is for you. Savich gets a call in the middle of night--not a “phone” call, but a “psychic” call. A young girl comes to him in his mind and they carry on a conversation. Yep, they have a psychic conversation. The girl is afraid and needs his help, but the connection fades as she tires, and he doesn’t get enough information to help her. While Savich is waiting to hear from her again, he and Sherlock are working on another case involving a crazed, serial-killing sixteen year old girl and her accomplice. Catherine Coulter has created another great novel with two plot lines, each with its exciting climax.
The third book, Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead by Jack Fredrickson is for those who enjoy reading about familiar places. It takes place in southwest lower Michigan, Chicago, and Iowa. Fredrickson vividly describes the area of West Haven (hmm, wonder where that might be), the drive to Iowa on I-80, and gives mention to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Dek Elstrom, disgraced private detective, receives a call from a lawyer in West Haven informing him that a murdered woman has named him as the executor of her will. Dek has no idea who this woman is or why she chose him for the job, but he soon gets involved in finding out what happened to her. Finding out who killed her is fun, but seeing how he resolves it is even more fun.
These are three possibilities for the mystery lover. The best part is you don’t have to choose. You can get all of them for free right here at the library. Good reading! Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
The second book is Knock Out by Catherine Coulter. This is a continuation of her FBI series with husband and wife team Savich and Sherlock. If your description of a really good book includes words like “eerie” or “weird” or “spooky,” and you are really interested in the supernatural, then this book is for you. Savich gets a call in the middle of night--not a “phone” call, but a “psychic” call. A young girl comes to him in his mind and they carry on a conversation. Yep, they have a psychic conversation. The girl is afraid and needs his help, but the connection fades as she tires, and he doesn’t get enough information to help her. While Savich is waiting to hear from her again, he and Sherlock are working on another case involving a crazed, serial-killing sixteen year old girl and her accomplice. Catherine Coulter has created another great novel with two plot lines, each with its exciting climax.
The third book, Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead by Jack Fredrickson is for those who enjoy reading about familiar places. It takes place in southwest lower Michigan, Chicago, and Iowa. Fredrickson vividly describes the area of West Haven (hmm, wonder where that might be), the drive to Iowa on I-80, and gives mention to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Dek Elstrom, disgraced private detective, receives a call from a lawyer in West Haven informing him that a murdered woman has named him as the executor of her will. Dek has no idea who this woman is or why she chose him for the job, but he soon gets involved in finding out what happened to her. Finding out who killed her is fun, but seeing how he resolves it is even more fun.
These are three possibilities for the mystery lover. The best part is you don’t have to choose. You can get all of them for free right here at the library. Good reading! Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
I’ve got three books for your summer reading pleasure. They are made for either lying on the hammock in the back yard or on a towel at the beach. The first one is Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen. It is the amusing story of Lady Georgiana (Georgie), thirty-fourth in line for the throne of England. It is set in the early 19th century when Mrs. Simpson and the Prince of Wales were scandalizing society with their affair. Being thirty-fourth in line to the throne and the sister of a land-poor Earl and his penny-pinching wife who tells her that they can’t afford to continue supporting her, Georgie finds herself in London, living alone (unheard of for a young lady of society) in the family home. Quickly tiring of fending for herself and existing on tea and biscuits, she goes in search of a job. There isn’t much opportunity for a lady trained only in the social skills, so she decides to make a niche for herself using those very talents. She has an opportunity to observe that there were many visiting businessmen alone in London and was sure that she could earn a living by offering her services as an intelligent, educated escort. Was it her fault that people misinterpreted her ad? Scotland Yard uses this as an excuse to get her involved in the investigation of a possible plot to kill the heirs to the throne. Her job is to go to Scotland with the Prince’s court and ascertain whether or not this could be an insider plot. Could her on-again, off-again male friend Darcy be involved? show more Who could possibly benefit from eliminating all of the heirs? It’s a conundrum that Georgie must solve before anyone is killed.
The second book is Knock Out by Catherine Coulter. This is a continuation of her FBI series with husband and wife team Savich and Sherlock. If your description of a really good book includes words like “eerie” or “weird” or “spooky,” and you are really interested in the supernatural, then this book is for you. Savich gets a call in the middle of night--not a “phone” call, but a “psychic” call. A young girl comes to him in his mind and they carry on a conversation. Yep, they have a psychic conversation. The girl is afraid and needs his help, but the connection fades as she tires, and he doesn’t get enough information to help her. While Savich is waiting to hear from her again, he and Sherlock are working on another case involving a crazed, serial-killing sixteen year old girl and her accomplice. Catherine Coulter has created another great novel with two plot lines, each with its exciting climax.
The third book, Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead by Jack Fredrickson is for those who enjoy reading about familiar places. It takes place in southwest lower Michigan, Chicago, and Iowa. Fredrickson vividly describes the area of West Haven (hmm, wonder where that might be), the drive to Iowa on I-80, and gives mention to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Dek Elstrom, disgraced private detective, receives a call from a lawyer in West Haven informing him that a murdered woman has named him as the executor of her will. Dek has no idea who this woman is or why she chose him for the job, but he soon gets involved in finding out what happened to her. Finding out who killed her is fun, but seeing how he resolves it is even more fun.
These are three possibilities for the mystery lover. The best part is you don’t have to choose. You can get all of them for free right here at the library. Good reading! Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
The second book is Knock Out by Catherine Coulter. This is a continuation of her FBI series with husband and wife team Savich and Sherlock. If your description of a really good book includes words like “eerie” or “weird” or “spooky,” and you are really interested in the supernatural, then this book is for you. Savich gets a call in the middle of night--not a “phone” call, but a “psychic” call. A young girl comes to him in his mind and they carry on a conversation. Yep, they have a psychic conversation. The girl is afraid and needs his help, but the connection fades as she tires, and he doesn’t get enough information to help her. While Savich is waiting to hear from her again, he and Sherlock are working on another case involving a crazed, serial-killing sixteen year old girl and her accomplice. Catherine Coulter has created another great novel with two plot lines, each with its exciting climax.
The third book, Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead by Jack Fredrickson is for those who enjoy reading about familiar places. It takes place in southwest lower Michigan, Chicago, and Iowa. Fredrickson vividly describes the area of West Haven (hmm, wonder where that might be), the drive to Iowa on I-80, and gives mention to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Dek Elstrom, disgraced private detective, receives a call from a lawyer in West Haven informing him that a murdered woman has named him as the executor of her will. Dek has no idea who this woman is or why she chose him for the job, but he soon gets involved in finding out what happened to her. Finding out who killed her is fun, but seeing how he resolves it is even more fun.
These are three possibilities for the mystery lover. The best part is you don’t have to choose. You can get all of them for free right here at the library. Good reading! Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
I’ve got three books for your summer reading pleasure. They are made for either lying on the hammock in the back yard or on a towel at the beach. The first one is Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen. It is the amusing story of Lady Georgiana (Georgie), thirty-fourth in line for the throne of England. It is set in the early 19th century when Mrs. Simpson and the Prince of Wales were scandalizing society with their affair. Being thirty-fourth in line to the throne and the sister of a land-poor Earl and his penny-pinching wife who tells her that they can’t afford to continue supporting her, Georgie finds herself in London, living alone (unheard of for a young lady of society) in the family home. Quickly tiring of fending for herself and existing on tea and biscuits, she goes in search of a job. There isn’t much opportunity for a lady trained only in the social skills, so she decides to make a niche for herself using those very talents. She has an opportunity to observe that there were many visiting businessmen alone in London and was sure that she could earn a living by offering her services as an intelligent, educated escort. Was it her fault that people misinterpreted her ad? Scotland Yard uses this as an excuse to get her involved in the investigation of a possible plot to kill the heirs to the throne. Her job is to go to Scotland with the Prince’s court and ascertain whether or not this could be an insider plot. Could her on-again, off-again male friend Darcy be involved? show more Who could possibly benefit from eliminating all of the heirs? It’s a conundrum that Georgie must solve before anyone is killed.
The second book is Knock Out by Catherine Coulter. This is a continuation of her FBI series with husband and wife team Savich and Sherlock. If your description of a really good book includes words like “eerie” or “weird” or “spooky,” and you are really interested in the supernatural, then this book is for you. Savich gets a call in the middle of night--not a “phone” call, but a “psychic” call. A young girl comes to him in his mind and they carry on a conversation. Yep, they have a psychic conversation. The girl is afraid and needs his help, but the connection fades as she tires, and he doesn’t get enough information to help her. While Savich is waiting to hear from her again, he and Sherlock are working on another case involving a crazed, serial-killing sixteen year old girl and her accomplice. Catherine Coulter has created another great novel with two plot lines, each with its exciting climax.
The third book, Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead by Jack Fredrickson is for those who enjoy reading about familiar places. It takes place in southwest lower Michigan, Chicago, and Iowa. Fredrickson vividly describes the area of West Haven (hmm, wonder where that might be), the drive to Iowa on I-80, and gives mention to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Dek Elstrom, disgraced private detective, receives a call from a lawyer in West Haven informing him that a murdered woman has named him as the executor of her will. Dek has no idea who this woman is or why she chose him for the job, but he soon gets involved in finding out what happened to her. Finding out who killed her is fun, but seeing how he resolves it is even more fun.
These are three possibilities for the mystery lover. The best part is you don’t have to choose. You can get all of them for free right here at the library. Good reading! Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
The second book is Knock Out by Catherine Coulter. This is a continuation of her FBI series with husband and wife team Savich and Sherlock. If your description of a really good book includes words like “eerie” or “weird” or “spooky,” and you are really interested in the supernatural, then this book is for you. Savich gets a call in the middle of night--not a “phone” call, but a “psychic” call. A young girl comes to him in his mind and they carry on a conversation. Yep, they have a psychic conversation. The girl is afraid and needs his help, but the connection fades as she tires, and he doesn’t get enough information to help her. While Savich is waiting to hear from her again, he and Sherlock are working on another case involving a crazed, serial-killing sixteen year old girl and her accomplice. Catherine Coulter has created another great novel with two plot lines, each with its exciting climax.
The third book, Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead by Jack Fredrickson is for those who enjoy reading about familiar places. It takes place in southwest lower Michigan, Chicago, and Iowa. Fredrickson vividly describes the area of West Haven (hmm, wonder where that might be), the drive to Iowa on I-80, and gives mention to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Dek Elstrom, disgraced private detective, receives a call from a lawyer in West Haven informing him that a murdered woman has named him as the executor of her will. Dek has no idea who this woman is or why she chose him for the job, but he soon gets involved in finding out what happened to her. Finding out who killed her is fun, but seeing how he resolves it is even more fun.
These are three possibilities for the mystery lover. The best part is you don’t have to choose. You can get all of them for free right here at the library. Good reading! Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library. show less
Maeve Binchy has a new book out entitled Heart and Soul. Set in a small community near Dublin, Ireland, this is a comfortable, enjoyable read about relationships. Typical of Binchy, the entire village is involved. Clare, the head of the new health clinic, is learning to cope with sharing her house with her two adult daughters. Life gets complicated as these three adult women attempt to maintain privacy and understand their new relationship as peers. Then there is Dr. Casey (no, not Ben), who is struggling to accept his parents for who they are and not be ashamed to introduce them to his girlfriend Fiona. Clare becomes a mentor to Ania, who disgraced her family by having an affair with a married man and ran away. She becomes Clare’s go-to person and makes a new life for herself while saving every penny she makes to send home to her mother.
Other souls that wander in and out of Binchy’s story are a priest who is blackmailed by a seasoned con artist, a middle-aged couple who are coping with a late in life pregnancy, and Clare’s assistant who is trying to do her job while caring for an aging mother. With graceful prose, Maeve Binchy has created a village of nice, unimposing characters and tells their stories in a way that makes us care about them. This is not just the story of a small town in Ireland, but of all towns everywhere. This is what makes Binchy’s book such fun to read.
Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library
Other souls that wander in and out of Binchy’s story are a priest who is blackmailed by a seasoned con artist, a middle-aged couple who are coping with a late in life pregnancy, and Clare’s assistant who is trying to do her job while caring for an aging mother. With graceful prose, Maeve Binchy has created a village of nice, unimposing characters and tells their stories in a way that makes us care about them. This is not just the story of a small town in Ireland, but of all towns everywhere. This is what makes Binchy’s book such fun to read.
Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library
This book is a must read for those of you who are participating in the Love and Forgiveness reading program. It is the story of how the Amish community in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania became the template for forgiving a grievous injury. In October of 2006, a gunman entered a small Amish school, taking hostages. By the time the police arrived, there were five girls dead and five others injured.
The media came, the news went around the world and, horrified by the deed as they were, people were more astounded by the behavior of the Amish. They forgave the shooter; they mourned with the shooter’s family; they somehow managed to move on “gracefully” with their lives.
Philosophers and seekers discussed this phenomenon, pondering whether one could forgive such an act perpetrated on another person. Could a father forgive the killer of his child? Outsiders who live in conjunction with Amish communities began to wonder if there was more to them than just “backward thinking” people who rode in horse-drawn buggies and didn’t use electricity. Individuals searched their own souls for the courage to be so forgiving.
Interestingly, the Amish were just as surprised at the reaction of the world. Forgiveness is a natural response for them. They never considered any other behavior. One person, when asked, responded, “There has been some confusion about our community’s forgiving attitude, [but] if we do not forgive, how can we expect to be forgiven? By not forgiving, it will be show more more harmful to ourselves than to the one that did the evil deed.”
The Amish community was fearful of how all of the attention would affect their daily lives. Would they become a curiosity for tourists from around the world? Would their peaceful neighborhood be overturned? Would their children be able to remain focused on living the Amish way?
This book gives the reader wonderful insight into a way of life that appears to be an anomaly in this age of greed and violence. How can they possibly maintain such a pacifistic lifestyle in a seemingly violent society? I can’t imagine anyone who having read Amish Grace can remain unchanged. Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
The media came, the news went around the world and, horrified by the deed as they were, people were more astounded by the behavior of the Amish. They forgave the shooter; they mourned with the shooter’s family; they somehow managed to move on “gracefully” with their lives.
Philosophers and seekers discussed this phenomenon, pondering whether one could forgive such an act perpetrated on another person. Could a father forgive the killer of his child? Outsiders who live in conjunction with Amish communities began to wonder if there was more to them than just “backward thinking” people who rode in horse-drawn buggies and didn’t use electricity. Individuals searched their own souls for the courage to be so forgiving.
Interestingly, the Amish were just as surprised at the reaction of the world. Forgiveness is a natural response for them. They never considered any other behavior. One person, when asked, responded, “There has been some confusion about our community’s forgiving attitude, [but] if we do not forgive, how can we expect to be forgiven? By not forgiving, it will be show more more harmful to ourselves than to the one that did the evil deed.”
The Amish community was fearful of how all of the attention would affect their daily lives. Would they become a curiosity for tourists from around the world? Would their peaceful neighborhood be overturned? Would their children be able to remain focused on living the Amish way?
This book gives the reader wonderful insight into a way of life that appears to be an anomaly in this age of greed and violence. How can they possibly maintain such a pacifistic lifestyle in a seemingly violent society? I can’t imagine anyone who having read Amish Grace can remain unchanged. Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Best-selling author T.A. Barron’s imagination takes another leap into worlds unknown in the first book of a trilogy of the same name, Merlin’s Dragon. The story takes place on the Isle of Fincayra, later to be known as Avalon. The hero first appears as an extremely unfortunate pebble, chewed on and clawed at by a number of creatures. We soon learn that this tiny stone is really an egg, unfortunate witness to a nest full of dragon eggs that have been horribly destroyed.
When the egg finally hatches, the emerging creature is no bigger than a child’s little finger, with green emerald eyes, and cupped bat-like ears and wings. He is given the name Basil by someone he outwits by emitting the scent of that herb. One day, Basil has a prophetic nightmare in which the wizard Merlin is killed by a large, beastly creature. Basil makes it his mission to find Merlin and warn him of the danger that awaits him.
Basil’s journey takes him through the many diverse lands of Avalon where he meets a variety of different creatures and makes a few good friends. He frequently helps others, especially his friend Aylan, who is a Wind Sister. Although he is often bold and reckless (such as when he attends a magical wedding that he wasn’t invited to), Basil acts with good intentions showing great bravery, endearing him to those he helps as well as to the reader. During this fantastic but difficult journey, Basil learns to overcome many of his fears, including his fear of being too small to show more be of any worth. But his dearest wish is to determine the nature of his identity and whether there are others like him in the world. By the end of the story, Basil not only learns who and what he is, but also saves the wizard Merlin from his fate. Merlin’s Dragon is a great beginning to what promises to be another excellent series by a truly gifted author. Fantasy readers of all ages will do well to journey into Basil’s world.
T.A. Barron is a multiple New York Times bestselling author. Barron also has received numerous nominations and awards. Having grown up in Colorado and traveled extensively as a Rhodes Scholar, Barron is now a full time writer and conservationist and writes from the attic of his Colorado home. Check out T.A. Barron at his website at www.tabarron.com where you can learn more about the author, his books, upcoming events, ask him questions and much more. Reviewed by Michele, Three Rivers Public Library show less
When the egg finally hatches, the emerging creature is no bigger than a child’s little finger, with green emerald eyes, and cupped bat-like ears and wings. He is given the name Basil by someone he outwits by emitting the scent of that herb. One day, Basil has a prophetic nightmare in which the wizard Merlin is killed by a large, beastly creature. Basil makes it his mission to find Merlin and warn him of the danger that awaits him.
Basil’s journey takes him through the many diverse lands of Avalon where he meets a variety of different creatures and makes a few good friends. He frequently helps others, especially his friend Aylan, who is a Wind Sister. Although he is often bold and reckless (such as when he attends a magical wedding that he wasn’t invited to), Basil acts with good intentions showing great bravery, endearing him to those he helps as well as to the reader. During this fantastic but difficult journey, Basil learns to overcome many of his fears, including his fear of being too small to show more be of any worth. But his dearest wish is to determine the nature of his identity and whether there are others like him in the world. By the end of the story, Basil not only learns who and what he is, but also saves the wizard Merlin from his fate. Merlin’s Dragon is a great beginning to what promises to be another excellent series by a truly gifted author. Fantasy readers of all ages will do well to journey into Basil’s world.
T.A. Barron is a multiple New York Times bestselling author. Barron also has received numerous nominations and awards. Having grown up in Colorado and traveled extensively as a Rhodes Scholar, Barron is now a full time writer and conservationist and writes from the attic of his Colorado home. Check out T.A. Barron at his website at www.tabarron.com where you can learn more about the author, his books, upcoming events, ask him questions and much more. Reviewed by Michele, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Do you like fairy tales? What about graphic novels? If you answered yes to either question then this may be just the book for you. Rapunzel’s Revenge by authors Shannon and Dean Hale and illustrated by Nathan Hale is an exciting new adaptation to the classic fairy tale that you heard while growing up. The story is set in a wild western land, with swashbuckling adventures, crazy plot twists, outrageous villains, and an outlaw hero and heroine.
As the story begins, Rapunzel lives with the harsh, often malicious and extremely powerful woman she believes to be her mother, a witch named Gothel. Mother Gothel uses her magic to make things grow when it suits her purposes. When Rapunzel dares to go against Mother Gothel and then learns who her real mother is, Rapunzel becomes imprisoned inside a tree. The magic which makes the tree grow causes Rapunzel’s hair to grow longer and longer while she is held prisoner by Mother Gothel. Rapunzel spends her time learning to use her hair as an escape route and as a lasso and a whip until she finally manages to escape after several failed attempts. Determined to seek revenge, not only for herself, but for everyone harmed or imprisoned by Mother Gothel, Rapunzel sets off and soon meets a boy named Jack who quickly becomes a true friend and her partner in crime. Together, Rapunzel and Jack have several adventures as they seek a way to make Mother Gothel pay for her crimes. The finale illustrates how Rapunzel frees her real mother from show more Gothel’s control and exacts poetic justice upon Mother Gothel once and for all.
Husband and wife author team Shannon and Dean Hale have two children and are working on a sequel to Rapunzel’s Revenge. Shannon Hale has written several acclaimed books and has received the Newbery Honor. Dean Hale is a computer geek, “crime fighter,” and writer. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah. To learn more about Shannon Hale check out her web site at www.squeetus.com.
Illustrator Nathan Hale, who is no relation to the authors, spent over a year on the artwork for Rapunzel’s Revenge. The artwork is expressive and could narrate the story on its own. The vivid graphics show detailed facial expressions and movement and the bright colors bring the characters and landscapes to life. Rapunzel’s hair takes on a life of its own, and a shift to lighter colors make it easy to distinguish when the story relates a memory or dream. Hale has worked on several books and lives in Utah with his wife and two children.
Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library show less
As the story begins, Rapunzel lives with the harsh, often malicious and extremely powerful woman she believes to be her mother, a witch named Gothel. Mother Gothel uses her magic to make things grow when it suits her purposes. When Rapunzel dares to go against Mother Gothel and then learns who her real mother is, Rapunzel becomes imprisoned inside a tree. The magic which makes the tree grow causes Rapunzel’s hair to grow longer and longer while she is held prisoner by Mother Gothel. Rapunzel spends her time learning to use her hair as an escape route and as a lasso and a whip until she finally manages to escape after several failed attempts. Determined to seek revenge, not only for herself, but for everyone harmed or imprisoned by Mother Gothel, Rapunzel sets off and soon meets a boy named Jack who quickly becomes a true friend and her partner in crime. Together, Rapunzel and Jack have several adventures as they seek a way to make Mother Gothel pay for her crimes. The finale illustrates how Rapunzel frees her real mother from show more Gothel’s control and exacts poetic justice upon Mother Gothel once and for all.
Husband and wife author team Shannon and Dean Hale have two children and are working on a sequel to Rapunzel’s Revenge. Shannon Hale has written several acclaimed books and has received the Newbery Honor. Dean Hale is a computer geek, “crime fighter,” and writer. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah. To learn more about Shannon Hale check out her web site at www.squeetus.com.
Illustrator Nathan Hale, who is no relation to the authors, spent over a year on the artwork for Rapunzel’s Revenge. The artwork is expressive and could narrate the story on its own. The vivid graphics show detailed facial expressions and movement and the bright colors bring the characters and landscapes to life. Rapunzel’s hair takes on a life of its own, and a shift to lighter colors make it easy to distinguish when the story relates a memory or dream. Hale has worked on several books and lives in Utah with his wife and two children.
Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library show less
While walking the coast of Cornwall attempting to come to terms with his wife’s senseless murder, Thomas Lynley happens upon a body. As you probably suspect, this leads to a homicide investigation into which he is drawn even though he insists that he is no longer with Scotland Yard. Thus begins another one of Elizabeth George’s intricately crafted mysteries. She introduces us to most of the characters in the small village, each of whom has an apparent reason for committing the murder. Was it the sister? Ex-girlfriend? Father? Mother? The newcomer? Present girlfriend? A rival? It seems the charming, attractive victim had many enemies, and the local gendarme, hard pressed to solve the case, pressures Lord Lynley into helping with the investigation. For those of you who are already Elizabeth George fans, you have a treat awaiting you in her latest book
If you’ve never read one of Elizabeth George’s books, and you enjoy mysteries with substance that take more than a few hours to read, then I suggest you begin with Missing Joseph, the earliest book by George that we have in the library, and work your way up to the most recent one, Careless in Red. Although, if you don’t mind learning about the lives and relationships of Lord Lynley and his cohorts in reverse, you can start with the most recent book, which I think is the best one of all.
If you decide to work your way through Elizabeth George’s novels, then you have a winter of excellent entertainment ahead of you. show more Not only do you get the pleasure of trying to discover “who dunnit” before Lord Lynley, you also get an excellent picture of English landscape and customs. I also enjoy trying to figure out what the various slang expressions mean.
Review by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
If you’ve never read one of Elizabeth George’s books, and you enjoy mysteries with substance that take more than a few hours to read, then I suggest you begin with Missing Joseph, the earliest book by George that we have in the library, and work your way up to the most recent one, Careless in Red. Although, if you don’t mind learning about the lives and relationships of Lord Lynley and his cohorts in reverse, you can start with the most recent book, which I think is the best one of all.
If you decide to work your way through Elizabeth George’s novels, then you have a winter of excellent entertainment ahead of you. show more Not only do you get the pleasure of trying to discover “who dunnit” before Lord Lynley, you also get an excellent picture of English landscape and customs. I also enjoy trying to figure out what the various slang expressions mean.
Review by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
John McWhorter is a fan of hip-hop music but believes that hip-hop should not be thought of as a political tool; it is only entertainment. He maintains that hip-hop will bring attention to certain issues but never seems to have any answers. Both conscious and popular hip hop styles are addressed. The author demonstrates how both styles lack the substance to help black America in the political activism area.
There are many hip-hop songs that shine a light on issues that concern black America such as unemployment. KRS-one raps about the need for more jobs to be created for poor African-Americans, but fails to rap about programs that are available to provide training and other resources needed to get jobs.
Conscious hip-hop may have more substance than popular hip-hop but it still should not be thought of as a reliable source of information. The author notes that the most successful hip-hop artists are those that have more aggressive lyrics, and this is not the way to make positive change.
Overall this book is a good read. The book does not try to put a negative light on hip-hop, it just reveals why it should not be thought of as a powerful instrument that will bring positive change to black America. The author believes that to have true change there has to more than talk--plans need to be made and put into action. And hip-hop is all talk and no action. Reviewed by DeAnna, Three Rivers Public Library
There are many hip-hop songs that shine a light on issues that concern black America such as unemployment. KRS-one raps about the need for more jobs to be created for poor African-Americans, but fails to rap about programs that are available to provide training and other resources needed to get jobs.
Conscious hip-hop may have more substance than popular hip-hop but it still should not be thought of as a reliable source of information. The author notes that the most successful hip-hop artists are those that have more aggressive lyrics, and this is not the way to make positive change.
Overall this book is a good read. The book does not try to put a negative light on hip-hop, it just reveals why it should not be thought of as a powerful instrument that will bring positive change to black America. The author believes that to have true change there has to more than talk--plans need to be made and put into action. And hip-hop is all talk and no action. Reviewed by DeAnna, Three Rivers Public Library
Our Library is an excellent book that describes what you can learn by reading a book. The story starts when Miss Goose, the local librarian, announces that the library is going to close because it needs repairs. The animal children don’t want the library to close, and they check out books in order to learn how to solve the problem. Miss Goose is happy, but there are other problems facing the library. The children keep checking out more and more books to continue solving the problems facing their library. In the end they manage to save the library, learn new things, make others happy, and help a friend learn to read. The colorful illustrations by Maggie Smith could tell the story all on their own. They are bright, fun and will catch a child’s attention.
Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library
Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library
With Society of S, Susan Hubbard introduced us to a world of vampires unlike any that’s come before it. Naturally it has to be a secret world, and naturally the vampires are superhuman in their capabilities, but they’re different in almost mundane ways. Some of them are ultra-environmentally conscious. Some of them are forces for good, intent on saving the world. There are few monsters in this world of Hubbard’s, our world with just a dash of blood sucking, and the monsters that do exist are monstrous in a human way. They don’t leap at you with fangs and rip your throat out. They instead try to burn down your house or subvert your friends into betraying you. The humanity in Hubbard’s vampires is what makes them interesting.
Hubbard continues her story with The Year of Disappearances, a surprising title given the name of her first book. One might have thought she’d choose a different Society (there are Ss, Ns, and Cs). But the tale picks up right where she left it in Society of S. We are again introduced to quiet, beautiful Ariella, our protagonist and a young lady that is hard not to fall for. She walks through the book’s pages with such grace and self-poise that you know she is simply more than human. She manages to fit in with those around her well enough, though she is always separate because of what she is. And at the same time, as a teenager, she is forced to deal with the same problems any young girl her age has to deal with; boys, school, and her show more parents.
But that’s not to say that this is a juvenile book in any way. It may bear a resemblance to some found in the young adult sections of your book repositories, but its themes are adult. Its tone is adult. There aren’t any explicit sex scenes or raucous cursing, but nevertheless it wouldn’t fit in with the Harry Potters and Chronicles of Narnia.
The story of The Year of Disappearances deals with Ari’s journey to college, and her continuing struggle with an odd life. Her father is gone, traveling somewhere for reasons never entirely clear, and she is still in the process of getting to know her now existent mother. And just as she feels that life may be turning towards some semblance of normalcy, people around her start to disappear. Mortal friends that she’s made turn up missing and sometimes dead. Strange men in tan vans stalk her, giving off a definite spook vibe, and her almost quiet life turns itself upside down once more.
The Year of Disappearances, as with most books, does suffer at times from pitfalls and downsides. As with Society of S, many things in the book, many plotlines that were emphasized at one point or another, are not cleared up in the end. Naturally this leads to questions about sequels, but there are some that aren’t finished and show no tendency to become finished. Some characters she wraps up succinctly, despite having fleshed them out to the point where I assumed they would be integral somewhere down the line. And the overall theme of the book turned out slightly blander than I would have expected.
But for its faults, The Year of Disappearances is an engaging sequel to the start of what could be a long and intriguing vampire saga. Its main draw is obviously young Arielle, a teenager that any parent would be proud of who carries herself with intelligence and wisdom beyond her meager fourteen years. Ari is the focus and the drive and a fantastic character to read about.
Review by David, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Hubbard continues her story with The Year of Disappearances, a surprising title given the name of her first book. One might have thought she’d choose a different Society (there are Ss, Ns, and Cs). But the tale picks up right where she left it in Society of S. We are again introduced to quiet, beautiful Ariella, our protagonist and a young lady that is hard not to fall for. She walks through the book’s pages with such grace and self-poise that you know she is simply more than human. She manages to fit in with those around her well enough, though she is always separate because of what she is. And at the same time, as a teenager, she is forced to deal with the same problems any young girl her age has to deal with; boys, school, and her show more parents.
But that’s not to say that this is a juvenile book in any way. It may bear a resemblance to some found in the young adult sections of your book repositories, but its themes are adult. Its tone is adult. There aren’t any explicit sex scenes or raucous cursing, but nevertheless it wouldn’t fit in with the Harry Potters and Chronicles of Narnia.
The story of The Year of Disappearances deals with Ari’s journey to college, and her continuing struggle with an odd life. Her father is gone, traveling somewhere for reasons never entirely clear, and she is still in the process of getting to know her now existent mother. And just as she feels that life may be turning towards some semblance of normalcy, people around her start to disappear. Mortal friends that she’s made turn up missing and sometimes dead. Strange men in tan vans stalk her, giving off a definite spook vibe, and her almost quiet life turns itself upside down once more.
The Year of Disappearances, as with most books, does suffer at times from pitfalls and downsides. As with Society of S, many things in the book, many plotlines that were emphasized at one point or another, are not cleared up in the end. Naturally this leads to questions about sequels, but there are some that aren’t finished and show no tendency to become finished. Some characters she wraps up succinctly, despite having fleshed them out to the point where I assumed they would be integral somewhere down the line. And the overall theme of the book turned out slightly blander than I would have expected.
But for its faults, The Year of Disappearances is an engaging sequel to the start of what could be a long and intriguing vampire saga. Its main draw is obviously young Arielle, a teenager that any parent would be proud of who carries herself with intelligence and wisdom beyond her meager fourteen years. Ari is the focus and the drive and a fantastic character to read about.
Review by David, Three Rivers Public Library show less
This is a book that every parent, grandparent, and educator should read. It made me re-think all the advice I gave my children. Jodee Blanco was a victim of bullying throughout most of her school years. It all began when she attended her first boy-girl party with her other twelve-year-old friends. The parents were home, so everything was well-chaperoned, right? Wrong. They were upstairs and the party was in the basement recreation room with the door locked. The kids were playing games that most of us didn’t play until high school, and when they began to pair off, Jodee got scared and called her mother to come get her. This is exactly what I told my kids to do in this situation. Her mother insisted on talking to the mother in charge. Also what I would have done. And this was the beginning of Jodee’s miserable school experience. Her friends were furious with her. She had gotten them grounded. Instead of one of the “in” crowd, she became a pariah. The bullying took the form of pranks, verbal abuse, and physical abuse.
Jodee begged her parents not to say anything, knowing that would only make things worse. They respected her wishes for awhile but as the bullying accelerated, they decided to talk to the principal of her school. He was cooperative, but Jodee was even more miserable when kids found out that she had “ratted them out.” She finally agreed to change schools, not once but twice. No matter how hard she tried, her intelligence and sense of justice got her in show more trouble every time. She lost weight, was depressed, and couldn’t eat. Her parents believed that she must be doing something wrong, so they took her to a therapist. As Jodee observed in her book, the victim was blamed while the perpetrators got the sympathy. Even a teacher started harassing her. What’s wrong with this picture?
If you’re a parent, grandparent, educator, bully, or victim and have only enough time to read one book, please make it this one. You won’t regret it.
Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Jodee begged her parents not to say anything, knowing that would only make things worse. They respected her wishes for awhile but as the bullying accelerated, they decided to talk to the principal of her school. He was cooperative, but Jodee was even more miserable when kids found out that she had “ratted them out.” She finally agreed to change schools, not once but twice. No matter how hard she tried, her intelligence and sense of justice got her in show more trouble every time. She lost weight, was depressed, and couldn’t eat. Her parents believed that she must be doing something wrong, so they took her to a therapist. As Jodee observed in her book, the victim was blamed while the perpetrators got the sympathy. Even a teacher started harassing her. What’s wrong with this picture?
If you’re a parent, grandparent, educator, bully, or victim and have only enough time to read one book, please make it this one. You won’t regret it.
Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
If you like mysteries and you like historical fiction, here’s the book for you. It is set in New York City during the time of the renowned Sarah Bernhardt, before the women’s liberation movement, and when the Mafia was just becoming an issue for the police. Molly Murphy, a young, single woman who needs to earn a living, has a very inquiring mind which makes detecting the perfect job for her. She revels in the independence of having her own agency and chafes at the fashion of the day, which definitely hampers her physically, and by the fact that men don’t take her seriously. To her dismay, she often needs to resort to letting her gentleman friend, a policeman currently on suspension, ask the questions.
Molly’s friends worry that she is working too hard, so she determines to slow down. However, she finds herself unable to say no to prospective clients. While investigating the credentials of an intended bridegroom, she and Dan are summoned to the house of his former fiancé’s aunt who wants them to clear her nephew’s name. He has disappeared and is accused of theft and murder. Then one cold afternoon, they are walking in the park when they discover the body of a young woman lying in the snow. They get her to the hospital, where she begins to heal physically but can’t (or won’t) speak. One day Molly visits her just as hospital orderlies are preparing to take her to the mental hospital. Fearing that once the girl is lost in the quagmire of officious bureaucracy show more she’ll never again see the light of day, Molly has no recourse but to kidnap her and take her home with her. Meanwhile, a previous client summons her to the theater to exorcise a ghost.
Is there a connection between any of these cases? Has she stretched her desire to help beyond her abilities? Will Molly and Dan be able to work together to solve them? Will they be able to overcome her desire to be independent and his need to be the protector and wage earner? We can only hope so, because I’m sure you’ll want to read more about these two crime fighters. Definitely add Tell Me Pretty Maiden by Rhys Bowen to your summer reading list.
Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Molly’s friends worry that she is working too hard, so she determines to slow down. However, she finds herself unable to say no to prospective clients. While investigating the credentials of an intended bridegroom, she and Dan are summoned to the house of his former fiancé’s aunt who wants them to clear her nephew’s name. He has disappeared and is accused of theft and murder. Then one cold afternoon, they are walking in the park when they discover the body of a young woman lying in the snow. They get her to the hospital, where she begins to heal physically but can’t (or won’t) speak. One day Molly visits her just as hospital orderlies are preparing to take her to the mental hospital. Fearing that once the girl is lost in the quagmire of officious bureaucracy show more she’ll never again see the light of day, Molly has no recourse but to kidnap her and take her home with her. Meanwhile, a previous client summons her to the theater to exorcise a ghost.
Is there a connection between any of these cases? Has she stretched her desire to help beyond her abilities? Will Molly and Dan be able to work together to solve them? Will they be able to overcome her desire to be independent and his need to be the protector and wage earner? We can only hope so, because I’m sure you’ll want to read more about these two crime fighters. Definitely add Tell Me Pretty Maiden by Rhys Bowen to your summer reading list.
Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
With an economy in shambles and every man and woman having to look for new and creative ways to make money, the Three Rivers Library is doing its part to further such efforts and has recently acquired a series of books by Entrepreneur Press detailing ways in which to launch or further potential careers.
Of the five selections, the first deals with retail. Start Your Retail Career is a near pocket-sized book that explores a variety of retail careers, including visual merchandisers, retail buyers and junior buyers, store managers, store owners, and more. The volume offers job descriptions, tools to target employers and get hired, insider tips from retail veterans, and quizzes to help you decide what path you want to travel down. In summary, Start Your Retail Career is a manual for the retail minded career seeker.
The next volume in the series is titled Mail Order Business, and as the title would suggest, deals with running mail order businesses either out of a small office or from the comfort of your own home. With the click of a mouse people can have anything they need mailed directly to their doorstep, and with this book you can learn how to be the middle man in that process. This book includes tips on finding industry trends, knowing which products sell, how to ship and package, how to build a solid internet presence, and more.
Our third book from Entrepreneur is Freelance Writing Business and More. Another volume that encourages you to work from home, this one show more explains all the ins and outs of creating a writing career that gives you the freedom and mobility to work from wherever you choose. Freelance writing is one of the most inexpensive businesses to start and maintain, and this book explains just how to do it. Freelance Writing Business and More gives tips on how to find clients for your writing, how to improve your writing, how to start up your business properly, and how to find your writing niche.
The next book in the series is about grant writing. Grant-Writing Business details the relationships between funders and grantees and how to become a part of this billion-dollar industry. This is not only a profitable career, but one that makes you a part of the charitable sphere of philanthropy. This volume has tips for identifying grants and funders, marketing your new business, developing your business plan, and more.
The final volume in our Entrepreneur series is Automobile Detailing Business. This book is designed for people who love cars and who love making them aesthetically pleasing. Even with gas prices as high as they are, cars will be a profitable industry for a long time and this book shows you how to become a part of that business. Automobile Detailing Business includes resources for finding suppliers, industry professionals, and government agencies to help you with your business, and even worksheets to help you calculate the costs and upkeep of your new business.
These five volumes contain a wealth of information for launching a new career in one of the paths listed above, and with people seeking more creative ways than ever in which to make money, such books could prove themselves extremely useful. The Entrepreneur series of career based books can be found in the new non-fiction section at the Three Rivers Library. show less
Of the five selections, the first deals with retail. Start Your Retail Career is a near pocket-sized book that explores a variety of retail careers, including visual merchandisers, retail buyers and junior buyers, store managers, store owners, and more. The volume offers job descriptions, tools to target employers and get hired, insider tips from retail veterans, and quizzes to help you decide what path you want to travel down. In summary, Start Your Retail Career is a manual for the retail minded career seeker.
The next volume in the series is titled Mail Order Business, and as the title would suggest, deals with running mail order businesses either out of a small office or from the comfort of your own home. With the click of a mouse people can have anything they need mailed directly to their doorstep, and with this book you can learn how to be the middle man in that process. This book includes tips on finding industry trends, knowing which products sell, how to ship and package, how to build a solid internet presence, and more.
Our third book from Entrepreneur is Freelance Writing Business and More. Another volume that encourages you to work from home, this one show more explains all the ins and outs of creating a writing career that gives you the freedom and mobility to work from wherever you choose. Freelance writing is one of the most inexpensive businesses to start and maintain, and this book explains just how to do it. Freelance Writing Business and More gives tips on how to find clients for your writing, how to improve your writing, how to start up your business properly, and how to find your writing niche.
The next book in the series is about grant writing. Grant-Writing Business details the relationships between funders and grantees and how to become a part of this billion-dollar industry. This is not only a profitable career, but one that makes you a part of the charitable sphere of philanthropy. This volume has tips for identifying grants and funders, marketing your new business, developing your business plan, and more.
The final volume in our Entrepreneur series is Automobile Detailing Business. This book is designed for people who love cars and who love making them aesthetically pleasing. Even with gas prices as high as they are, cars will be a profitable industry for a long time and this book shows you how to become a part of that business. Automobile Detailing Business includes resources for finding suppliers, industry professionals, and government agencies to help you with your business, and even worksheets to help you calculate the costs and upkeep of your new business.
These five volumes contain a wealth of information for launching a new career in one of the paths listed above, and with people seeking more creative ways than ever in which to make money, such books could prove themselves extremely useful. The Entrepreneur series of career based books can be found in the new non-fiction section at the Three Rivers Library. show less
What do a teen-aged girl with a paraplegic mother, a black housekeeper/caregiver, the race riots of the 1960’s, and Elvis have in common? Diana, the teenager, resides in Tupelo, Mississippi, with her mother, who was stricken with polio while pregnant with her; Peacie, their black caretaker, who is devoted to both women and, of course, Elvis was very much alive at that time. Diana’s mother insists that she knows him.
Diana is coping not only with the general teenage perceptions and uncertainties, but must also come to terms with being poor, and alternately loving her mother for her courage and hating her for her dependence. Typically, she also resents Peacie’s attempts to teach her what she needs to understand to survive. All of this takes place in the South of the 1960’s, and Diana struggles to understand her black friends’ fight to bring racial equality to the country.
Will she come to understand the fallacy of what she has been told about “Negroes?” Will she learn the value of honesty? Compassion? Kindness? Will she be able to forgive her best friend’s perfidy? Will she accept Peacie’s tough love? And who will come to their aid? Read We Are All Welcome Here, and take the journey with her. It’s time well-spent. Reviewed by Sherrill, Three Rivers Public Library
Diana is coping not only with the general teenage perceptions and uncertainties, but must also come to terms with being poor, and alternately loving her mother for her courage and hating her for her dependence. Typically, she also resents Peacie’s attempts to teach her what she needs to understand to survive. All of this takes place in the South of the 1960’s, and Diana struggles to understand her black friends’ fight to bring racial equality to the country.
Will she come to understand the fallacy of what she has been told about “Negroes?” Will she learn the value of honesty? Compassion? Kindness? Will she be able to forgive her best friend’s perfidy? Will she accept Peacie’s tough love? And who will come to their aid? Read We Are All Welcome Here, and take the journey with her. It’s time well-spent. Reviewed by Sherrill, Three Rivers Public Library
How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else by Michael Gates Gill
Michael Gates Gill grew up in privilege, graduated from an Ivy League college, became a successful advertising executive, married and had four children. He dedicated his life to his job at the expense of his family, and at the age of 55, he lost said job to a younger man. He decided to start a consulting business and had an affair to bolster his waning self-esteem. The business failed, and the affair resulted in a child, which led to the demise of his marriage. And, just in case he still had some hope, having canceled his health insurance, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. No, no, don’t stop reading! This is where the story begins.
One day, with nowhere to go and little money left in his pocket, he decided to treat himself to a Starbucks break. As he walked in, he noticed the sign indicating a “Hiring Open House” but didn’t pay it much mind. So there he sat in his Brooks Brothers suit, briefcase sitting on the table, trying to look busy and important, when in reality he was bemoaning his life. Out of the blue the young lady sitting next to him asked if he would like a job. Without thinking, he responded, “Yes, I would like a job.” Seeing her surprised reaction, he realized that she was just joking, but he was desperate. Once she realized he was serious, they began a conversation.
Thus begins a coming of age saga for the mature set and a commercial for Starbucks. At age sixty-five, struggling to learn a new job as the sole white face in a neighborhood show more Starbucks, living in a tiny apartment, and making an hour-and-a-half subway commute, Michael proceeds to reflect on the person he used to be. Reading this book, I realized the truth of the old adage: It’s never too late to learn. You can teach an old dog new tricks if he’s willing to try. Never give up that ship. Okay, okay, enough with the platitudes. The point is that this book is a great read with a great message. Oh, about the Starbucks commercial---if you’re a coffee lover, you already know that they make good coffee, but it is also a wonderful place to work. If I weren’t happily employed here at the library, I might apply. Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
One day, with nowhere to go and little money left in his pocket, he decided to treat himself to a Starbucks break. As he walked in, he noticed the sign indicating a “Hiring Open House” but didn’t pay it much mind. So there he sat in his Brooks Brothers suit, briefcase sitting on the table, trying to look busy and important, when in reality he was bemoaning his life. Out of the blue the young lady sitting next to him asked if he would like a job. Without thinking, he responded, “Yes, I would like a job.” Seeing her surprised reaction, he realized that she was just joking, but he was desperate. Once she realized he was serious, they began a conversation.
Thus begins a coming of age saga for the mature set and a commercial for Starbucks. At age sixty-five, struggling to learn a new job as the sole white face in a neighborhood show more Starbucks, living in a tiny apartment, and making an hour-and-a-half subway commute, Michael proceeds to reflect on the person he used to be. Reading this book, I realized the truth of the old adage: It’s never too late to learn. You can teach an old dog new tricks if he’s willing to try. Never give up that ship. Okay, okay, enough with the platitudes. The point is that this book is a great read with a great message. Oh, about the Starbucks commercial---if you’re a coffee lover, you already know that they make good coffee, but it is also a wonderful place to work. If I weren’t happily employed here at the library, I might apply. Reviewed by Sherry, Three Rivers Public Library show less
Someday is a book that expresses a mother’s love and dreams for her child. A mother speaks to her young daughter throughout the book, recalling her infancy through her future of adulthood. With the help of great watercolor pictures, the story brings to life the storyteller and daughter sharing together everyday moments which mark many important milestones in the girl’s life. The book opening, “One day I counted your fingers and kissed each one," grabs the reader and takes you on a quietly emotional, yet fact of life, journey. The ideas expressed are joys as well as sorrows that every mother will face during her daughter’s attainment of goals and heartache along the way.
This is a book that every Mother will treasure. Reading it will likely bring tears to her eyes, and at the same time create a special moment with her daughter! Reviewed by Erin, Three Rivers Public Library
This is a book that every Mother will treasure. Reading it will likely bring tears to her eyes, and at the same time create a special moment with her daughter! Reviewed by Erin, Three Rivers Public Library