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Margaret is our resident book sleuth. If you've got a rare or out-of-print edition you'd like to special order, she can find it for you. |
FEBRUARY 2019
February. Snowed in? Curl up under the covers or by a fireplace and read a tale of old... with a focus on the women's side of things. Adventure with King Arthur and his knights and Merlin his magician, but the tale expands with the feelings and perspectives of the strong women of Camelot: Igraine, Gwenhwyfar, Morgan Le Fey, and Viviane, the Lady of the Lake. The Lush language will take you away, the mysticism will enchant you, and the spirituality of the books may inspire you. Strong women -- these too!
JANUARY 2019
January. New Year, new meals! I am nothing if not thrifty/cheap. And this is a tasty and easy way to do it as well. Hate cauliflower? But I love cheese so page 93 changed my tune. Always need another recipe for zucchini, right? Try the Savory Summer Cobbler. With simple clear instructions that even a non-cook like me can follow, this cookbook is a great bang for your buck. Beat the pang in your tummy without a wallop to your wallet. Read 'em and eat!
August 2018
August. TC Film Festival. Even though this movie is not playing at the festival it is a great one. Read about the behind the scenes. Of 14 stars with screen credit how many were born in the US? (pg 127). How did "As Time Goes By" avoid getting CUT from the movie? The casting, the writing, the details. You must remember this! And of course you want to know it all. A delightful read with or without popcorn. The start of a beautiful.....
JULY 2018
July. Summer vacation! And who doesn't want to spend some time at a vacation cabin on a lake? Well read this at your cabin, condo, or hotel. This is a true adventure from the ground up. The breezy style gets you involved, but not bogged down in the DIY building of a cabin on Lake Superior. More than a build it story, the lessons also coven 2nd marriages, couples working together, and crock-pot families. And then there is the one about the bathroom sink. Let Spike and family do the work. Enjoy!
MAY 2018
May. Flowers?? Well I don't consider myself a true gardener, so I like shortcuts. I'm trying the banana peel with the roses tip so I'll let you know. Y\This easy to follow guide has suggestions and tips galore. The layout and chapter headings make things easy to find quickly. A cool list of resources and additional reading can be found at the back. And dig the cute little bookmark to cut off from the back cover jacket. A fun little book to use or give to a friend. And Thursday, July 19, 2018 is the Friendly Garden Walk.
APRIL 2018
April. The month for taxes gets me thinking about the future. I agree that old retirement no longer so this book sounded promising. Well it doesn't promise, but gives lots of tools and case studies to give you ideas and inspire you. There are reader exercises to do and sections on philosophy and life choices more than number crunching. Easy direct style is no nonsense and the book focuses on life style "transitions", how to take charge and manage them rather than "what do I do when I retire" approach. Refreshing and thoughtful. So give it a read!
March. Only how many days till spring training?? and the season?? Get your baseball fix with this entertaining volume about the Tigers. Since 2002 the author has been the Fox Sports Detroit game announcer so you get a real back stage story on the media coverage. There's some skinny on Mark "the Bird" Fidrych, Verlander, "Miggy", and more. Learn about some jinxes and curses and "the grind". In a breezy conversational style Mario tells you all about baseball like he calls the game, with knowledge, appreciation, and a lot of heart. Reader-up!
FEBRUARY 2018
February. With the snow back I wanted a cozy tale. Travel with this novel to the Florence of Botticelli as he meets the title character who becomes his muse and more. Explore the Italian Renaissance alongside Simonetta who loves learning and poetry yet must decide on a husband and how to play the political power scene in the Medici court. Palombo brings historic research to life with interesting characters and relationships that will not let you look at "The Birth of Venus" as you did before. Let these pages take you to Italy where you can bask in the warmth of fine phrases in this delightful read. Ciao!
DECEMBER 2017
December. This is a great indulgence so it's a great gift. Maybe you will only travel to these laces between the pages, but maybe... Now that you know of such an uplifting museum in Iceland (pg 114), or that you could make an addition to Gnomesville, Australia, or just where some of the Berlin Wall pieces are, or the location of Pig Beach in the Bahamas, don't you just have to go there? You can clean up with some trivia challenges and amaze folks at the water cooler with these fun tidbits. But I gotta go read on a line and get reservations in Oregon to the Giant Pumpkin Regatta! Bon Voyage!
NOVEMBER 2017
November. Veteran's Day. There are so many books coming out covering WWII. DK books are special, however, and I want my whole youth back so I can ask for the entire series for Christmas. This book gives an overview of the war with great photos and artifacts. Interest someone you know in history or take a gander yourself. Easy to dip in and out of, but a wealth of knowledge. Honor our veterans, read!
OCTOBER 2017
October. Something creepy? Haloweenish?? These are not traditional ghost stories with a beginning, middle, and end, but you get lots of strange sightings and mysterious happenings. There is analysis, context, and history to be had here as well as the haunting tales. Yes, (spoiler alert!) some of the unexplained remains that way, but isn't that just better? Cherrio, enjoy this journey of ghosts through the ages (there are a lot of hauntings in England) and watch out for the fog and the spirits....
SEPTEMBER 2017
September. This title grabbed me while shelving and I have to tell you about it. Starting with a story about George Leslie who in the 1870s used his position as an architect to get people to open up and show him blueprints. He would later use the knowledge and some tradesmen friends to plan efficient robberies. Do you know what a sofa job is? Learn how thieves use new tech devices to their advantage. Informative and true, but reads like fun fiction. You'll have many good tales to tell friends and pick up a few traps to avoid.
MAY 2017
May. Mother's Day. Graduation. Summer vacation planning. This wonderful book could be used for lots of occasions. Tons of information with great color photos. I like the "State of the Art" that tells you about movies, songs, art, and BOOKS related to the state. Other features include "Festivals", "Local Flavor", and "Little Known Facts". Say ROAD TRIP!!, but do you agree with what they picked for Michigan?
APRIL 2017
April. I'm new to birding and I'm WILD about this book. LOOK at the great pictures!! Big and Clear. The life cycle info is interesting. The format of this book is tops. You can find out a lot of information fast. The big habitat sections like prairie and grasslands then wetlands, deciduous forest, coniferous forest have descriptive pages before talking about the birds found therein. At the back is a fantastic chart of places (including phone numbers, web sites and emails) to learn more about birds. I'd love to tell you more, but I think I'll run off to Raven Hill!
MARCH 2017
March. Top of the Irish to you. There is more to Irish cooking than corned beef and cabbage and this bargain volume gives you plenty to feast upon. Do you know what Battenburg, Porter, Dundee and Gur Cake is? These recipes are clear with lists of ingredients, a photo and precise instructions. I loved how this cookbook had my number when it said I could use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and skip to the curry sauce (pg 141). For celebrating this month I'm going to do the beef and barley stew. Uses extra stout... hold the green food coloring. Slainte!
FEBRUARY 2017
My name is Inigo Montoya...you killed my father... Can you finish the line?? No?? INCONCEIVABLE!! So while waiting for the Oscars or romancing your Valentine you can wander by the Fire Swamp and find out some of Dread Pirate Robert's secrets. Do you know what Westley broke and then what scenes he then shot?? What did Andre the Giant like to do and eat?? Scaramouch? Let your friend Westley tell you all the behind the scenes secrets of one of the most loved films ever adapted from a novel. Then go see "The Princess Bride" on the big screen at the State Tuesday, February 14th. Now let's go storm a castle! As you wish!
JANUARY 2017
January. Scared or want to try new things or a new approach? The concrete suggestions in this small book can be really impactful. Reasons that this volume has been around for 20+ years. Learn to be pro-active by mastering the pain to power vocabulary shift. Can you think of any ways to reclaim your power before checking page 58? The friendly straightforward style makes it easy to dip in and out of yet still grab some actionable tips if you are in a hurry. I like "Don't protect, correct". Find out the details behind that gem. Don't be afraid. Buy the book, read the words, try the actions. I double dare you!
DECEMBER 2016
December. Xmas. If I didn't work retail I'd be off on one of these great
road trips. With enticing pictures and pithy details of possible stops
this book is great for planning/remembering trips. What Michigan drives
are listed? How many have you driven? What state is the
"Going-to-the-Sun Road" in? A great gift or something to put on your own
list, this updated volume will get you "on the road again" if only from
your favorite comfy armchair.
NOVEMBER 2016
November can be a start of a year of thanks instead of just Thanksgiving. I'm grateful I found this book. Following Kaplan's chatty descriptions of her year focusing on the positive. Gratitude requires emotional involvement, she posts. Disagree? She may convince you. What is the single most sustainable motivator at work?? Check out Kaplan's interview with Adam Grant (ch. 8). "Researchers have found that gratitude can lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and dramatically decrease depression." So try to find one thing each day to be grateful for and write it down or take a photo. Then keep going!
SEPTEMBER 2016
September. Back to school and less beach and maybe less time in general. Get out the slow cooker and go to town with the recipes shown here. Each season features: appetizers, side dishes, entrees, soups/sandwiches and desserts. the photos are inspiring. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Why are some recipes fall vs spring? You tell me. Of course summer features a TC submitted recipe on page 153. Vote for mulligatawney soup in the Shine Cafe. Or butternut coconut curry! Bon appetit!
AUGUST 2016
August. I saw so many movies at the State Theatre with its wonderful starry ceiling (the night sky opening night of TCFF #1). It made me want to learn more about heavenly stars. So this cool book has drawings of the constellations, a simple write up on the names and related mythology, gorgeous color photos, and detailed scientific info on the stars themselves. Now I can go outside and understand a bit more of what I'm seeing. When it's too cloudy, I can read and enjoy the lush photos that give me views and focus I'd never see. And now I know what The Plow is.
JULY 2016
Countdown to TCFF with this wonderful volume that gives an accessible history of film from 1902 (A TRIP TO THE MOON) to 2014 (BOYHOOD). Not only American movies are featured here, but the foreign ones like BICYCLE THIEF and RED that have made an impact on the art form. Color photos along with black and white ones bring back memories or intrigue you to put a title on your to-view list. Timelines put everything in perspective. So have fun reading about the details of your favorite films and discover new ones. It is easy to dip in and out of this book that details the fun and substance of movies... Cut. Print.
JUNE 2016
June. Win points with Mom by getting this for Dad as a Father's Day gift. Or it could be great for a Grad going to college or out to a first apartment or house. Even for folks who know many things there is probably a solution or two for a problem in here that would justify the bargain price investment. The clear descriptions and great detailed drawings will make anyone a quick capable do-it-yourselfer. So enough of watching Holmes on Homes, pop this book in and get what you need. You can do it!!
MAY 2016
So much for the Youtube site. Read the book! This irreverent volume says it all and more. The pop art is as amusing as the quotes are sarcastic. This could be the perfect gift for a graduate, a friend, a parent, or hey, get it for yourself and just have a smile. Think about how buying this book will add even a few more cents to the pot of this Swedish born millionaire who dropped out of college. Remember, you can't make everyone happy (now look for the rest toward the end of the book on a big yellow page). But This Book Loves You!
APRIL 2016
April. Ok, so while you are shoveling the last of the spring snow, think about FLOWERS!! This thorough and accessible volume covers a variety of perennials in alphabetical order, but has a helpful quick reference chart sorted by color. It includes "tips" and "problems and pests" along with growing information. An interesting list of Michigan gardens to visit is found by the comprehensive index. What do you think of Helen's Flower and Hollyhocks? And maybe some thrift. Gotta find out the dates for the GT Area Children's Garden Annual Plant Sale.
FEBRUARY 2016
February. A romantic getaway perhaps? Come along on a Gilded Age European tour that gives you gardens, Italy, literary greats Edith Wharton and Henry James, and introduces you to Beatrix Farrand. The fiction is made more interesting by knowing theat Beatrix really was one of the first female landscape architects and happened to be Wharton's niece. This light, breezy historical novel provides interesting characters with a touch of the mystical. Its garden descriptions will tide you over till spring. And there just may be something spooky about Amerigo Massimo. Ciao!
JANUARY 2016
Winter is a good time to curl up with O'Kane family. This colorful chronicle spans the generations as you read of the narrator's grandparents 1897 first meeting in smalltown Pennsylvania. Follow their growing. family's adventures through the 1990's. With or without Irish coffee the O'Kanes will enchant... as will the local author who often drinks coffee in the store.
JANUARY 2016
January. New Year, so time to learn some new words. I'm not going to read the OED, so I'm glad Mr. Shea did, and tells us about it in a chatty, friendly style that is easy to pick up for a quick bit or to sit back and enjoy. I'm glad a wonderful customer shared this fine volume with me, and I want to pass along the fun. So don't gaum at this book, just buy it and get rid of your twi-thoughts. Do I sound like a philodox or a mote?
NOVEMBER 2015
As leaves fall and trees get stark I like to read Poe or something creepy or scary. Try Levine's retelling of Stevenson's classic tale from Mr. Hyde's perspective. Follow the "inside" scoop to see if you believe that Hyde was framed. It may send you back to read the original, but the volume stands on its own as tale of good and misuderstood (?) evil. The prose captures the essence of Victorian Londonand while it gives a good nod at the classic source, the writing has a more modern feel not jarringly out of place. Enjoy an out of body experience curling up to read Hyde, but hide from the spirits afterward.
SEPTEMBER 2015
Fall. As nature's bounty changes seasons I want to keep things for the long wi*&#%. This easy to follow tome is chock full of recipes to help. Having an index by fruit/topic saves time and gives great ideas. The pictures and the detailed info at the beginning of the book proved helpful to someone who only ever helped the parents can. Page 167 saves me from buying lots of takeout. Going to the farmers market for more peaches. Need a batch of Amaretto/Peach preserve? Pg. 56. Cheers!
(Horizon Books is not responsible for calories gained by eating great items from this book.)
JULY 2015
July. Bastille Day!!! Want to get out of town for the July festivals? Go to Paris with James Fenimore Cooper, Sam Morse, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell and others. Of course this is Paris between 1830 and 1900 so enjoy seeing the city of lights through the eyes of these noted Americans. McCullough's research makes the account full but accessible. Bon Voyage! And at a bargain price too!!
MAY 2015
May. Something for Mom or a Grad perhaps? So if you can't give them the airfare, here's a great way to give some great trips and tips. These are stories of family and travel. Remember the actor Andrew McCarthy of St. Elmo's Fire? He describes exploring hs Irish roots. Explore the Philippines with Barbara Noe and find out about her mother's girlhood adventure there. The end of each section gives more info on what to watch, visit and read. Use the information at the back of the book to do real research on your family tree. Happy Trails to you!!
FEBRUARY 2015
At the beginning of new years I particularly try to find new approaches and new things to learn. This little volume packs alot of inspiration and ideas to ponder throughout the year. Using the page a day method or just dipping in and around both provide something for your soul. Seek stimulation? See page 260. Page 286 gives thoughts on replenishment. "In life, it is we who select what we will become by the actions that we perform" (page 141). How about the purchasing action? Seek harmony in the world and within yourself. Read! Enjoy!
JANUARY 2015
January can be a great time to plan a road trip or just get out of Dodge and go on one. This wonderful bargain edition will help you do just that. The great color photos may influence your choice and the detailed map breakouts will help you navigate your route. I have taken several of these drives already and find the commentary on what to see and do along the way to be on the point, although a more detailed guide to a certain area may prove a great addition. Start here and get your winter wheels rolling!!
JANUARY 2015 (Part 2)
January, a month to maybe start a diet or at least find some new recipes. I may not be the cook in the house, but sometimes I make good suggestions. This is it! Tasty AND low calories! I never thought I'd like squash, put try is as pad thai, pg. 84. The directions are simple enough for me to follow and I like having shopping lists at the backof the book. Detailed nutrition info is at the bottom if each recipe. At this rate I may even try pg. 148...the turkey kale.
NOVEMBER 2014
In November I think about things I'm thankful for. Tops on my list is Tom and that is NOT because he cooks for me. So I HAD to check out Bill Heavey, who like me "trusts anyone else's nose" but his own in determining if fridge food is hazardous. I was intrigued by his desire to find food directly with no middleman. His adventures are entertainingly detailed here. Good for reading aloud after a family meal. Do you have a "Tomb of Unknown Utensils"? Try recipes here if you dare! Sour Cherry Pie for Horizon Shine Cafe?? I'll check with the chef.
AUGUST 2014
Can't get enough of the TCFF?? Use this at home afterward as a guide. A father made a deal with his son who was allowed to drop out of school.... But they had to watch three films a week and discuss them. What films would you choose for a curriculum? Showgirls? Really??What couldbe the lesson there?? This could be the foundation of a book/movie club. Action!
JULY 2014
Something patriotic for July or just plain interesting? I always wanted to know a bit about where Martha Washington slept and tells about her visiting George on campaign. It tells about other wives too. And the early Jersey Shores women with the vote...until...(see page 159). From being left in charge of the farm, homestead, and property to protecting their children from violence and looting, these female figures are strong, resourceful, resilient and interesting to read about. I salute these ladies!
JUNE 2014
You just have to leaf through this incredible book!! The artwork alone is so beautiful!! The individual stories and short quotes are touching and inspiring. Then there are the inquisitive journal prompts to challenge you. So this lovely volume could be a gift for a grad (Dad?) or retiree, or just something incredible for your own bookshelf. What a special book created by a writer who is really AOK and challenged others to respond. I am grateful I found this book and that I get to work around readers and book lovers. Enjoy!!!
MAY 2014
May, a month of graduations and Mother's Day. This little volume packs in alot of good advice and motivation. Easy to read inspirational chapters allow you to pick it up and read part, not the whole thing, and get ideas. Mothers put alot of goodness out in the world and chapter 2 could help moms re-energize and keep perspective. Let the simple elegance of the philosophy and colorful examples move you or a gifted graduate to spread your goodness this spring.
APRIL 2014
Sit outside and dream of Paris while reading DeRosnay's take on the city in the 1860's as dark alley neighborhoods are being renovated to Haussmann's modern city. Rose will NOT leave her family home as she writes in letters to her dead husband. Relish the Paris she paints and the characters she describes with her charming turn of phrase... Enchante!
FEBRUARY 2014
February. Valentine's Day, Comedy Festival, the Vasa, snow...So have fun in between activities with environmentalist author McKibben who gives a new introduction to his book about a year of LIVING STRENUOUSLY (originally published in 2000). Bill's anecdotal stories follow his 37th year as he seeks sweat and finds enlightenment while training like an Olympic cross-country skiier. Endurance and intensity are concepts explored in thoughtfull and often witty prose. An exercise in fine reading. Enjoy!
JANUARY 2014
A new year, a new leaf, a new portfolio? From novices to experienced investors, I bet you can find something in here for you. The clear layout makes it easy to learn concepts in sizeable segments, or just dip in and find out something specific. There are detailed "Action Steps" and checklists if you want to be precise & follow the Can Slim program. An e-mail is included for providong feedback or asking further questions. You may recognize author Galgani from his radio show & ties to Investors Business Daily. Books are usually a good investment, those like this one are more so. So invest in your future today!
DECEMBER 2013
Want a cool special book for the holidays? What's better than Bryson? Special edition Bryson!! This volume come with loads of pictures to illustrate interesting tidbits the author expounds on as he covers the various rooms of a house. (Bill actually thought he could write a history of the world without leaving home.) From scullery to attic with the garden, the cellar, and the fuse box thrown in for good measure, tour the evolution of private life and the things and spaces we take for granted. What is verdigris ("Wicked" fans take note) and why was it expensive? For housewarming, Kwanzaa, or Noel.
NOVEMBER 2013
This is a lively truth-is-stranger-than-fiction narrative on REAL art thefts. Whittman, a former FBI undercover agent dishes the dirt and gives the the lowdown on the characters behind big heists. You don't have to appreciate art to enjoy the cat and mouse games and dicey dialogue detailed here.
Wait 'till you read about the "Antiques Roadshow" connection. Then there's the story about North Carolina's copy of The Bill of Rights looted during the Civil War and bought by the author in a sting. Steal some time to read this captivating book.
OCTOBER 2013
TC is a haven for water activities. You can enjoy this on the beach or on your boat or anywhere... You will, however, think differently about seeing the Coast Guard boats or choppers go by after regarding this detailed story about the harrowing resque of fishermen in the Berring Sea. Cool off with this true adventure, but give yourself some time, you won't put it down till you find out what happens. You'll then find a "Coastie" and thank them for their service.
SEPTEMBER 2013
September. Fall makes me think of preserving my bounty of summer, and this book helps me do just that. It's still not too late to grab some great produce from local farmers markets and save summer in a jar or freezer. Can you top a recipe using a microwave and liqueur?? (Hint: it's in the jam section along with Autumn Fruit Jam.) Can you really say you have NO Zucchini?? See page 153. This volume packs in alot of good information in an easy to read and follow format even for kitchen challenged folk like me. Bon Appetit!!
JULY 2013
July is a month of water activities in TC. You can enjoy this on the beach or on you boat or anywhere... You will however think differently about seeing the Coast Guard boats or choppers go by after reading this detailed story about the harrowing rescue of fishermen in the frigid Berring Sea. Cool off with this true adventure, but give yourself some time, you won’t want to put it down till you find out what happens. Then find a “Coastie” & thank them for their service.
JUNE 2013
June, a time for family vacations, a cutsie gift or a road trip. Sothis little volume could be useful, or just fun. Don't peek first, but guess which 6 unusual Michigan names are in here. Make this a parlor game with friends; name the states these towns are from and how they were named: Happy Camp , Index, Arctic, Toast. How many have you visited?
What town is named after a mule??(pg. 231) The stories about how these towns were named can add a smile to your day. Buy this, as the book says Wynot! (NE)
MAY 2013
I don't usually read mysteries, but I've been in a Wilde mood since I've been upholstering furniture for Old Town Playhouse's "Ideal Husband" (May 3-18th.. take a bookmark). Not only is Oscar Wilde playwright, bon-vivant a character here, but he meets Arthur Conan Doyle of Sherlock Holmes fame. What follows is a Victorian who-done-it rich characters, unexpected plot twists, and witty dialogue. The game's afoot. Can you finger the culprit first?
APRIL 2013
April may bring some showers, but I'm ready to see some green. I hope to walk/hike some of the places I cross-country skied this winter. The section on the Sleeping Bear Dunes is detailed with both descriptions & small maps. The North Country Trail section is not so detailed, but provides references to contact for additional information. Nearby Grass River Natural area is included as well. I plan to keep my copy in the car so I have it when out traveling. As a gift for a friend or to add to your own collection this is a great book to have on hand.
MARCH 2013
In March I think of St. Paddy's Day and things green or Irish. That leads me to storytelling and these tales from across the globe. I like the Aboriginal Tale that tells of an owl's friendship with a hurricane and explains owls' big eyes. The illustrations are lush and cheerful. Be entertained by how the bear got a stumpy tail or how the young boy's riddle saved his parents from losing their house. There is even a tale from Ireland. Happy Tales to you! Slainte!!!
FEBRUARY 2013
February Fun includes Microbrew Festival, Comedy Festival, Valentine's Day, and the Oscars. Celebrate all those occasions with this book and its lively recipes. Besides a "Root Beer" Float, you could make a "Chocolate Truffle" (pg. 75) for your sweetie. It's called "Snakebite" for a reason; check it out to see why. All you retirees check out page 54. The photos are fab and the recipes clear and easy to follow. Have a blast and a giggle with these cocktails. Cheers!!!
DECEMBER 2012
December. Xmas. If I didn't work retail I'd be off on one of these great road trips. With enticing pictures and pithy details of possible stops this book is great for planning/remembering trips. What Michigan drives are listed? How many have you driven? What state is the "Going-to-the-Sun Road" in? A great gift or something to put on your own list, this updated volume will get you "on the road again" if only from your favorite comfy armchair.
NOVEMBER 2012
November: A month that sometimes needs color and reminds us to be thankful. The 10-year anniversary collection reminds me what FUN Runway has been and how colorful! This is a great gift for fashionistas, budding designers/costumers and all-around creative types. Learn all the backstage secrets like which designer is "fierce" and why. What type of dress would you make out of merchandise at a grocery store? Can you tell which dress on pages 152-153 was made of newspaper? Find the peanuts sack dress!
October. When it gets a little chilly it's good to snuggle up to someone. Maybe even read The Art of Sensual Loving together... or just look at the illustrations. For those fans of the 50 Shades trilogy, get a little different take on intimacy. This bargain edition won't stay in stock long because it has loads of good information presented in a clear manner that will provide hours of fun and enjoyment! A prime example of the old adage: More bang for your buck.
SEPTEMBER 2012
September: a month for star wathcing and off-shoulder travel... like, say, outer space??? Get the ins and outs of space without all the NASA Astronaugt training. Author Roach's irreverent style takes nothing away from the actual science involved. She makes the reading enjoyable for every younger readers who yearn to know about bodily functions in space. Do you know what a furuncle is? Or why the "corned beef sandwich" incident was dangerous? Learn and laugh with Roach, who also wrote Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers.
AUGUST 2012
August is TCFF kick-off so how about this amazing book from the American Film Institute (AFI)? These in-depth interviews discuss craft in a way that will intrigue the layman, but provide meaningful messages to students and folks in the biz. From Truffaut to Altman with Corman, Ephron, Kaminski and Streep in between, this volume has something for everyone. Was The Wrestler autobiographical? What early Nicholson film was shot in 2 days and by whom? Great read.
JUNE 2012
Nash Rambler & Studebaker were spoken of with reverence in our family. Great fun to read stories of romance, high-jinks, and lessons learned related to these cars. Even the stories told by names I didn't recognize were entertaining.
Another form of amusement in the book is finding typos & errors! Can you identify the incorrect word usage on page 78?
The handsome photos are helpful for me as I am unfamiliar with many styles and makes. Kinda makes you want to write an ode to your first car. Mine was a Coronet. What was yours? Is it in here? A great gift for a Dad, Grad or something to read on a road trip.
MAY 2012
May is a month of Mother's Day, some graduations, proms and spring flowers. Breathe in the scent of Mazzeo's biography of hte world's most famous perfume and learn how it was named. Read about les "annees folles" after WWI and meet the young designer Coco Chanel and her lovers. Do you know what an aldehyde is and what it does? Part romance novel, part business case study, this book is light and dreamy like the iconic Paris it represents. Come on, indulge yourself after winter! Open up to the scent of possibilities! Buy it for yourself or a friend and revel in luxury!
APRIL 2012
April Showers... bring May Meditation. Before the season gets too hectic try this book that comes with 4 guided meditations on CD. Skeptical??? So was I, but this small volume provides an easy-to-follow program. you can even just dip into it for some quick new perspective. Try pg. 96 and the Drinking Tea Meditation, or the answers on pg. 70 about being restless. "Real happiness depends on what we do with our attention," the book claims. Attend this and grab some.
MARCH 2012
March. St. Patrick's Day. I want to see green again! I did, as this lush novel took me to the Ireland of 1905 to meet the O'Neills and Sheridans. Portraying WWI and religious unrest on a personal level gives an emotional depth to historical details I find engaging as a reader. Eileen is the determined kind of loving lady you want as your friend and you ache for her encounters with Owen. How will Eileen's attraction with a charismatic follower of Michael Collins turn out? Enjoy the rich language of author Falvey in this lyrical tale of Irish national and personal heart.
FEBRUARY 2012
February. No Comedy Fest. Well this isn't funny, but it is a treat. Hey it is Oscar month so why not look at even more GREAT dresses. The photos are fab and the behind-the-seams stories give dishy details. Iconic Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn garments are here with Chanel, Princess Diana, Cher, Lady Gaga, and... well just look. Guys, it's a great gift for your lady love. Ladies, you know you have room in your closet for it. Buy it because it will never go out of style!
JANUARY 2012
JANUARY 2012
DECEMBER 2011
NOVEMBER 2011
MAY 2013
I don't usually read mysteries, but I've been in a Wilde mood since I've been upholstering furniture for Old Town Playhouse's "Ideal Husband" (May 3-18th.. take a bookmark). Not only is Oscar Wilde playwright, bon-vivant a character here, but he meets Arthur Conan Doyle of Sherlock Holmes fame. What follows is a Victorian who-done-it rich characters, unexpected plot twists, and witty dialogue. The game's afoot. Can you finger the culprit first?