I have been reveling in the Green Mountains of Vermont, in the glory of summer. And enjoying the a/c in the local libraries while we have heat wave after heat wave. At least my husband is home watering the plants!
So I thought it appropriate that I read some of the local authors, or work that was IN Vermont. Some interesting stuff from the last blog including:
Archer Mayor Price of Malice - this is the 19th?!! in a Vermont mystery series with Joe Gunther and his crew. I find them to accurately represent the state, although I try not to remember the murder, rape, drugs, mayhem that they deal with on a regular basis. This is such a beautiful state that I used to call home, would like to call home and am very glad to visit again! and often. Each mystery seems to get better, I do think they need to be read in order simply for the character development.
Rusty Dewees Scrawlins - I am a Dewees fan, always have been from the first moment I saw him in Judevine - a great Vermont play (wonderful book and poetry). He has been in a couple of other productions that I was lucky to see (Hydepark, Stowe and in Burlington) and I knew he was a friend of another friend of mine in Elmore. I had no idea all the other things that he has done in his life! This is a collection of his 'essays' / writings for a radio show that are simply stunning. Moving, intricate, funny, tragic, thoughtprovoking, sad, homespun while profound. A Vermont soul and a world human being. This was published a couple of years ago, but had not come across it. I need Vermont bookstores!
Images of America, Caledonia county VT - I love these historical books - mostly photographs of another era, any era that has photographs! I am not sure they have been done for all counties yet, but I found several that were great to flip through and absorb. Fascinating to compare with what i am seeing now, as I drive by, as I remember what it was like 30 years ago. Many changes, BUT, so much is the same. Thank heavens. Long may the mountains remain.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
2010 Reading List
I am travelling for a period, and finally getting time to look through the diary, check the emails, look over the lists, sort out my paper life! As it happens, with the invention of the iphone and built in camera, I have used the camera to take snapshots of books I want to read. In the last week, in various bookstores (Vermont has 55 wonderful used bookstores, and LOTS of libraries which are having summer book sales - and yes I am shipping books home out of the luggage) I have photographed a number of books: the list looks like this:
Julie Orringer The Invisible bridge
Georgette Heyer Duplicate death
Where the wild things are
Tinkers Paul Harding
AMS Double Comfort Safari Club
J. Maarten Troost Lost on Planet China
Eva Rice The lost art of keeping secrets
John McPhee Giving good weight
Archer Mayor Price of Malice
Rusty Dewees Scrawlins
Images of America, Caledonia county VT
Marina Fiorato The Botticelli secret
Juliet Gael Romancing Miss Bronte
Tana French Faithful Place
Yes I have read a couple of these years ago, but revisiting is also fun, sometimes in a different format (dvd or audio). Sometimes it is the republication cover that attracts attention and reminds you what a wonderful book that was. Or reminds you of where you were when you read it.
That plus another list, means I have alot to catch up on! But I have actually read a few books lately, and listened to a couple more travelling the back roads of Vermont. I am typing this in the Stowe Public Library, where I was a patron 25 years ago. I read through their entire collection of books on tape (and it was cassette tape then!) during my commute to Burlington, or to Huntington (Camel's Hump research site). This was where I learned to listen to children's books on tapes and can still recite some of the wonderful lines by incredible voices (and people!). And here I listened to hours of poetry, especially Robert Frost and Emily Dickinson, as well as radio programmes, that connected me again with my parents "the shadow knows!". This is a wonderful library, and community, and state. Tomorrow I head to Montpelier for two of my favourite bookstores: Rivendell and Bear Pond Books. With a couple of PO mailing boxes in hand.... ;-)
Julie Orringer The Invisible bridge
Georgette Heyer Duplicate death
Where the wild things are
Tinkers Paul Harding
AMS Double Comfort Safari Club
J. Maarten Troost Lost on Planet China
Eva Rice The lost art of keeping secrets
John McPhee Giving good weight
Archer Mayor Price of Malice
Rusty Dewees Scrawlins
Images of America, Caledonia county VT
Marina Fiorato The Botticelli secret
Juliet Gael Romancing Miss Bronte
Tana French Faithful Place
Yes I have read a couple of these years ago, but revisiting is also fun, sometimes in a different format (dvd or audio). Sometimes it is the republication cover that attracts attention and reminds you what a wonderful book that was. Or reminds you of where you were when you read it.
That plus another list, means I have alot to catch up on! But I have actually read a few books lately, and listened to a couple more travelling the back roads of Vermont. I am typing this in the Stowe Public Library, where I was a patron 25 years ago. I read through their entire collection of books on tape (and it was cassette tape then!) during my commute to Burlington, or to Huntington (Camel's Hump research site). This was where I learned to listen to children's books on tapes and can still recite some of the wonderful lines by incredible voices (and people!). And here I listened to hours of poetry, especially Robert Frost and Emily Dickinson, as well as radio programmes, that connected me again with my parents "the shadow knows!". This is a wonderful library, and community, and state. Tomorrow I head to Montpelier for two of my favourite bookstores: Rivendell and Bear Pond Books. With a couple of PO mailing boxes in hand.... ;-)
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Diana Norman, Taking Liberties
Diana Norman, Ariana Franklin is a journalist, now novelist because she loves historical detail. Reviews of all her books are excellent. There is so much detail, you can reread these books. There are nuances and great detail, but galloping reads as well.
My heart broke for the woman in this story - married at 18 within the aristocratic England; incredible descriptions of family, duty, life. She never forgave her parents for her marriage yet accepted her duty. The arrival of her son was her deepest joy and worst hurt as her husband removed all joy and and beat out all happiness. But she finds herself free at 39 with his death. Only to have her son and his wife cripple her (financially) - and yet she gives her son what he needs, clinging to his wife for support and affection. BUT she escapes by 'visits' - and the arrival of a letter that awakens the dream of the only happy time in her life when she was 13/14.
Then comes the crusade to save the 'boy', to help a friend, to have an adventure and 'live'. She falls in love, what a magical relationship that is. What astounding characters/people. (a slave is given his freedom, and gives it back to save the cause - prisoner exchange. the second woman Makepeace - so very different, so alike and the tale that combines the two lives, making a social history). Profound on so many levels.
(She is also the author of the Mistress of Death series which I love)
My heart broke for the woman in this story - married at 18 within the aristocratic England; incredible descriptions of family, duty, life. She never forgave her parents for her marriage yet accepted her duty. The arrival of her son was her deepest joy and worst hurt as her husband removed all joy and and beat out all happiness. But she finds herself free at 39 with his death. Only to have her son and his wife cripple her (financially) - and yet she gives her son what he needs, clinging to his wife for support and affection. BUT she escapes by 'visits' - and the arrival of a letter that awakens the dream of the only happy time in her life when she was 13/14.
Then comes the crusade to save the 'boy', to help a friend, to have an adventure and 'live'. She falls in love, what a magical relationship that is. What astounding characters/people. (a slave is given his freedom, and gives it back to save the cause - prisoner exchange. the second woman Makepeace - so very different, so alike and the tale that combines the two lives, making a social history). Profound on so many levels.
(She is also the author of the Mistress of Death series which I love)
Monday, July 12, 2010
Wild Hair Neil Gaiman
Wild Hair by Neil Gaiman is absolutely delightful. All the more so because he is known for pretty wild hair! It could be (probably is) his!! This is a whimsical children's book with one sentence to a page and not that many pages. Funny, thoughtful, I have to go back and reread it to think, why did he say that or include that. I am positive there are alot of hidden references. Like the Pixar movies, two levels to be enjoyed by kids of all ages. The illustrations are great- perfect for the setting, depicting the 'action'.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
City of Light by Lauren Belfer
City of Light by Lauren Belfer was published in 1999 - and I am sorry I missed it!! this was a tremendous book, especially for summer beach reads with a little bit of everything! Factually historical, wonderful romantic/tragic tale, interesting plot, mystery and story, excellent writing for a great read. Takes place in Buffalo NY in the early 1900s, you will feel right at home after reading Devil in the White City. Some similarities, but much more intricate story, much more academic. This does involve academic life, but also the electrifying of cities and houses (and businesses). The revelations and secrets were fairly obvious to me, but the facts on Niagara falls, electricity, girls schools, power struggles in class, society and between male/female is ever present. I read this one because I had heard of her newest book, which wasn't available from the library yet.
The opening, and closing will grab you, make you pause, reconsider and think on it for several days.
"I am lucky: I know what people say about me. To some I am a bluestocking: a woman too intellectual to find a husband. To others I am an old maid, though I do not consider myself old and I am no maiden." "Self knowledge as the greeks might say, the only knowledge worth having." Louisa Barrett 1909.
I will be looking for her latest fiction, to be sure. (A Fierce Radiance, 2010)
The opening, and closing will grab you, make you pause, reconsider and think on it for several days.
"I am lucky: I know what people say about me. To some I am a bluestocking: a woman too intellectual to find a husband. To others I am an old maid, though I do not consider myself old and I am no maiden." "Self knowledge as the greeks might say, the only knowledge worth having." Louisa Barrett 1909.
I will be looking for her latest fiction, to be sure. (A Fierce Radiance, 2010)
Friends' Bookstore
Many of you have noticed and commented on the great window art that now beautifies our bookstore space. The paintings were done by Audrey Jahnke, who is Bev Reid's daughter. Audrey is a teacher at Willow Creek Middle School who has a love of art and is also very talented! I have included two of them in the photo album on the facebook site.
Children's Reads!!
Posted by a passionate children's reader - to share with the Friends! CHECK THESE OUT!!
Maud Hart Lovelace Book Awards- 2010-2011
Maud Hart Lovelace is the Minnesota author of the Betsy Tacy series of children books. The Minnesota Youth Reading Awards (MYRA) honors Maude Hart Lovelace through this children’s and young adult book award. The Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award is a children's choice book award. Its purpose is to encourage recreational reading among school age children. Students in grades 3-5 who have read or listened to at least three titles from the Division I nominee list are eligible to vote for their favorite title in March. This year’s Division I nominee list:
Alabama Moon by Watt Key: Moon Blake lives with his father, a radical, anti-government Vietnam vet in the woods of Alabama. When Moon’s dad dies his real adventure begins.
A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban: Zoe is growing up in a very quirky family. She has a big dream of playing a piano concert in Carnegie Hall. Her dream is sidetracked when her Dad buys her a Perfectone D-60 organ instead of a piano. Instead of classical music, Zoe learns the theme songs from old television programs.
Deep and Dark and Dangerous by Mary Downing Hahn: Ali finds an old, torn photograph stuck in a book. It has her Mom and aunt as children and part of someone else torn off. If you like ghost stories, you’ll love this one.
Eleven by Patricia Reilly Giff: Sam discovers a locked box in the attic and a newspaper clipping showing he may be a missing kidnapped child. There is lots of suspense without being too scary.
Found (The Missing, Book 1) by Margaret Peterson Haddix: Another exciting science fiction series by Haddix. This one begins with a plane arriving at the airport, undetected by radar, no pilot, no flight attendants, only 36 infants strapped into their seats. Reserve your copy of Book 2 right away.
Extraordinary Adventures of an Ordinary Boy, Book 1 Hero Revealed by William Boniface: Ordinary Boy lives in Superopolis, where everyone but him has super powers. It’s a fun, fast read.
How To Save Your Tail: *if you are a rat nabbed by cats who really like stories about magic spoons, wolves with snout-warts, big hairy chimney trolls and cookies too by Mary Elizabeth Hanson: The title says it all…. a very humorous book.
How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O’Connor: Georgina is homeless, living in a car. She decided to steal a cute little dog for the reward/ransom to help her family.
The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies: It’s not just about setting up your lemonade stand and collecting the profits. Evan Treski and his younger sister Jessie learn all about business including dirty tricks.
No Talking by Andrew Clements: Classic boys against the girls story. Normally loud and talkative 5th graders need to stay silent for 48 hours. Who will triumph? Who will defy the Principal? Another fun book by Frindle author.
One-Handed Catch by M. J. Auch: Norm loses his hand in a meat grinder in his Dad’s butcher shop. Norm doesn’t want to give up his dream of playing baseball even if his guilt ridden Dad is so discouraging.
The Sloppy Copy Slipup by DyAnne Disalvo: How do you get your homework assignment finished with a pesky little brother, rock band rehearsals, and the disappearance of your life savings? Brian Higman becomes a fabulous storyteller.
Maud Hart Lovelace Book Awards- 2010-2011
Maud Hart Lovelace is the Minnesota author of the Betsy Tacy series of children books. The Minnesota Youth Reading Awards (MYRA) honors Maude Hart Lovelace through this children’s and young adult book award. The Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award is a children's choice book award. Its purpose is to encourage recreational reading among school age children. Students in grades 3-5 who have read or listened to at least three titles from the Division I nominee list are eligible to vote for their favorite title in March. This year’s Division I nominee list:
Alabama Moon by Watt Key: Moon Blake lives with his father, a radical, anti-government Vietnam vet in the woods of Alabama. When Moon’s dad dies his real adventure begins.
A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban: Zoe is growing up in a very quirky family. She has a big dream of playing a piano concert in Carnegie Hall. Her dream is sidetracked when her Dad buys her a Perfectone D-60 organ instead of a piano. Instead of classical music, Zoe learns the theme songs from old television programs.
Deep and Dark and Dangerous by Mary Downing Hahn: Ali finds an old, torn photograph stuck in a book. It has her Mom and aunt as children and part of someone else torn off. If you like ghost stories, you’ll love this one.
Eleven by Patricia Reilly Giff: Sam discovers a locked box in the attic and a newspaper clipping showing he may be a missing kidnapped child. There is lots of suspense without being too scary.
Found (The Missing, Book 1) by Margaret Peterson Haddix: Another exciting science fiction series by Haddix. This one begins with a plane arriving at the airport, undetected by radar, no pilot, no flight attendants, only 36 infants strapped into their seats. Reserve your copy of Book 2 right away.
Extraordinary Adventures of an Ordinary Boy, Book 1 Hero Revealed by William Boniface: Ordinary Boy lives in Superopolis, where everyone but him has super powers. It’s a fun, fast read.
How To Save Your Tail: *if you are a rat nabbed by cats who really like stories about magic spoons, wolves with snout-warts, big hairy chimney trolls and cookies too by Mary Elizabeth Hanson: The title says it all…. a very humorous book.
How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O’Connor: Georgina is homeless, living in a car. She decided to steal a cute little dog for the reward/ransom to help her family.
The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies: It’s not just about setting up your lemonade stand and collecting the profits. Evan Treski and his younger sister Jessie learn all about business including dirty tricks.
No Talking by Andrew Clements: Classic boys against the girls story. Normally loud and talkative 5th graders need to stay silent for 48 hours. Who will triumph? Who will defy the Principal? Another fun book by Frindle author.
One-Handed Catch by M. J. Auch: Norm loses his hand in a meat grinder in his Dad’s butcher shop. Norm doesn’t want to give up his dream of playing baseball even if his guilt ridden Dad is so discouraging.
The Sloppy Copy Slipup by DyAnne Disalvo: How do you get your homework assignment finished with a pesky little brother, rock band rehearsals, and the disappearance of your life savings? Brian Higman becomes a fabulous storyteller.
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