tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24330298520147680292024-03-13T22:03:32.961-04:00New @ MPLMs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.comBlogger391125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-2089468321954885792015-06-24T14:15:00.001-04:002015-06-24T14:15:21.937-04:005 Picks from July Library Reads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VI2M0FJE6mAwVP8AOjygwqvw8wRhHeXg_7cDk0_vXJBtXzBQv4JiWEkQvp09pgaVbEa5eqkiDXeaftg2eYluhS8DH_AMFyEH1VAvN4hT_Z9zvVNgnhkTNbjYoAszCB9Cm_49mFdIU2LJ/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_july.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="50" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VI2M0FJE6mAwVP8AOjygwqvw8wRhHeXg_7cDk0_vXJBtXzBQv4JiWEkQvp09pgaVbEa5eqkiDXeaftg2eYluhS8DH_AMFyEH1VAvN4hT_Z9zvVNgnhkTNbjYoAszCB9Cm_49mFdIU2LJ/s400/LibraryReads_banner1_july.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There are a lot of great books on the <a href="http://libraryreads.org/" target="_blank">July Library Reads</a> list. Here are just a few. Just click on a title to request a copy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Kitchensblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Kitchensblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=kitchens+of+the+great+midwest&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search" target="_blank"><b>Kitchens of the Great Midwest: A Novel</b></a><br />
by J. Ryan Stradal<br />
<br />
“This novel is quirky and colorful. The story revolves around chef Eva Thorvald and the people who influence her life and her cooking. With well-drawn characters and mouthwatering descriptions of meals, Kitchens of the Great Midwest will appeal to readers who like vivid storytelling. Foodies will also enjoy this delicious tale.”<br />
<br />
Anbolyn Potter, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/CirclingtheSunblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/CirclingtheSunblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=circling+the+sun&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tkitchens+of+the+great+midwest" target="_blank"><b>Circling the Sun: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Paula McLain</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“I couldn’t stop reading this fascinating portrayal of Beryl Markham, a complex and strong-willed woman who fought to make her way in the world on her terms. McLain paints a captivating portrait of Africa in the 1920s and the life of expats making their home there. Highly, highly recommended.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Halle Eisenman, Beaufort County Library, Hilton Head, SC</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/KissMeblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/KissMeblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tkiss+me/tkiss+me/1%2C318%2C318%2CB/frameset&FF=tkiss+me&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank"><b>Kiss Me: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Susan Mallery</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“As always, Ms. Mallery has given us a fantastic read. As soon as I pick up her titles, I can’t put them down until I have finished them. They are feel-good, heartwarming —</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I need more synonyms. I love seeing all the previous characters, the friendships and families that have formed since Chasing Perfect came out five years ago. Thanks, Ms. Mallery, for another amazing read.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Jenelle Klavenga, Marshalltown Public Library, Marshalltown, IA</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/AnotherLifeblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/AnotherLifeblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=maybe+in+another+life&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=r&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tkiss+me" target="_blank"><b>Maybe in Another Life: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Taylor Jenkins Reid</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“Hannah Martin has just moved back to LA after ending a relationship. Her best friend, Gabby, takes her out to a bar on her first night home. Enter Ethan, the One Who Got Away, and suddenly, Hannah has to decide if she’ll leave with Ethan or Gabby. We follow Hannah after choosing both options, alternating chapters to explore the consequences of each. A must for anyone who loves a hankie with their books!”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Tracy Babiasz, Chapel Hill Public Library, Chapel Hill, NC</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/GOOD-CHEAPblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/GOOD-CHEAPblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tGood+and+Cheap%3A+Eat+Well+on+%244%2FDay/tgood+and+cheap+eat+well+on+$4+day/-3%2C0%2C0%2CB/frameset&FF=tgood+and+cheap+eat+well+on+$4+a+day&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-" target="_blank"><b>Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Leanne Brown</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“Wow! This is a great looking book. Great for beginners with its details about ingredients and kitchen tools. Best of all, each recipe is made from ingredients that most everyone has; there were only two ingredients in the whole book that I don’t own. This book is just what my doctor ordered, literally. I am a basic cook and like simple and tasty. This book is OUTSTANDING!”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Nancy Chalk, Charlton Public Library, Charlton, MA</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i></div>
Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-11962232152688259182015-06-18T14:31:00.003-04:002015-06-18T14:31:28.344-04:00Throwback Thursday: "Life Finds a Way"<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>In celebration of the release of </i>Jurassic World, <i>please enjoy this "Throwback Thursday" post on the Jurassic Park trilogy. </i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Originally posted April 11, 2013.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<br />
At movie theaters today, most hit films make a third of their total gross on their opening weekend. Films rarely stay in theaters for more than two months -- and even then, only the biggest blockbusters make it that long. But twenty years ago, a movie came along that not only broke the opening weekend records ($50 million in three days, unheard of in 1993), it nearly doubled that opening the following weekend. And after that record two-week showing, the movie stayed in theaters for over a year. (It was still being shown on 100 movie screens in October 1994, when the film was released on VHS.) It was one of the last movies to ever gain that much play in theaters for so sustained a period.<br />
<br />
And what's more, it did it without a single big-name star and without an already-established franchise.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXfuH4i-C-TTFFJn7edSF1uP1274RXyASJOc8AVBJdNuNLJoqpw8xczY8Luxl0RUVlcSUTihmI4zFl1Fy5Q7AFJbk_IpsUJ6gW8ZLU0NcMKJREaBKAzx5YXV-Cox39Ex7Whu3PgXXe3Vo/s1600/Jurassic-Park_Logo-2-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXfuH4i-C-TTFFJn7edSF1uP1274RXyASJOc8AVBJdNuNLJoqpw8xczY8Luxl0RUVlcSUTihmI4zFl1Fy5Q7AFJbk_IpsUJ6gW8ZLU0NcMKJREaBKAzx5YXV-Cox39Ex7Whu3PgXXe3Vo/s400/Jurassic-Park_Logo-2-.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I've gotten some raised eyebrows when I've referred to <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=jurassic+park&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tterminator+2+judgment+day">Jurassic Park</a> </i>as the "Star Wars" of my generation. In a world where <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=star+wars&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search">Star Wars</a> </i>fans will line up for days ahead of time for movie tickets and <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/2218456.stm">write down "Jedi" on census forms as their official religion</a> -- can <i>Jurassic Park </i>fans really compare?<br />
<br />
Allow me to make my case.<br />
<br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>Jurassic Park </i>stars <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/aneill+sam/aneill+sam/1%2C3%2C90%2CB/exact&FF=aneill+sam&1%2C87%2C/indexsort=-">Sam Neill</a> as Dr. Alan Grant, a paleontologist (a scientist who studies pre-historic life). He and paleobotanist Dr. Ellie Sattler (<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/adern+laura/adern+laura/1%2C2%2C64%2CB/exact&FF=adern+laura&1%2C63%2C/indexsort=-">Laura Dern</a>) are on a dig in the Badlands of Montana, thrilled with their fresh findings but concerned about the future of their research once their funding runs out. Enter eccentric billionaire John Hammond (<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/aattenborough+richard/aattenborough+richard/1%2C2%2C72%2CB/exact&FF=aattenborough+richard&1%2C71%2C/indexsort=-">Sir Richard Attenborough</a>), who mysteriously promises to fund a three-year dig if Grant and Sattler accompany Hammond to his new theme park and offer their opinions on attractions "so astounding, they'll drive kids out of their minds."</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">It's a crazy offer, but Grant and Sattler aren't about to refuse. Joined by mathematician Dr. Ian Malcolm (<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/agoldblum+jeff/agoldblum+jeff/1%2C2%2C80%2CB/exact&FF=agoldblum+jeff+1952&1%2C78%2C/indexsort=-">Jeff Goldblum</a>), and fussy lawyer Donald Gennaro (<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=a&searcharg=Ferrero+martin&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=agoldblum+jeff">Martin Ferrero</a>), the group travels to a small island off the coast of Costa Rica to see Hammond's flashy new attractions.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwTUpegJgjxhG-t0oPEWwrwEPT47PGnaDWQngTu6FnuPgGohgdtMtSLb94QPESKucwhUFUOoTaMUiS6Kzm0vv0dl7HP-RmSfVHYH7SgOwT7emS5uXPdGJA4LU5vP5thVDFwXqYjX5vYw/s1600/amber-dino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwTUpegJgjxhG-t0oPEWwrwEPT47PGnaDWQngTu6FnuPgGohgdtMtSLb94QPESKucwhUFUOoTaMUiS6Kzm0vv0dl7HP-RmSfVHYH7SgOwT7emS5uXPdGJA4LU5vP5thVDFwXqYjX5vYw/s320/amber-dino.jpg" width="320" /></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">The attractions, as it turns out, are genetically engineered dinosaurs, created by scientists who have extracted dino DNA from ancient preserved mosquitos. (No, <a href="http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2012/10/jurassic-park-dna-half-life/">this would never actually work</a> -- but c'mon, it's a movie.) A previous accident that had occurred with one such "attraction" led Hammond to track down a handful of experts to experience the island for themselves and vouch for the park's safety.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">But electrified fences and tranquilizer darts only go so far, and it's not long before disgruntled-employee sabotage leads to the dinosaurs escaping their cages and wrecking havoc on the humans around them. Hammond, Malcolm, and Sattler must find a way to restore working computer systems to the park, while Dr. Grant promptly finds himself lost amidst a cadre of loose dinos -- with Hammond's two young grandkids at his side. (The lawyer winds up eaten.) The ensuing film is an action-adventure story like few others.</span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_7ZXDgsK9qu7EDcbMWilwlESSd9rIxZKHCbIobEbiP39RDmS62bChYTQAfZFnuC5YF7TAVNph6A7QIXd2wPI310dgMo8jCGPy7PP2l2Up5b7dXzrZR7OyFsscuSf2tpYYrgLpPy3_9k/s1600/wu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_7ZXDgsK9qu7EDcbMWilwlESSd9rIxZKHCbIobEbiP39RDmS62bChYTQAfZFnuC5YF7TAVNph6A7QIXd2wPI310dgMo8jCGPy7PP2l2Up5b7dXzrZR7OyFsscuSf2tpYYrgLpPy3_9k/s400/wu.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>A Jurassic Park scientist extracts DNA from a preserved mosquito</i></div>
<br />
<br />
To understand the impact that <i>Jurassic Park </i>had on the film industry, you have to delve deeper into what the franchise really accomplished. When it premiered in 1993, <i>Jurassic Park </i>broke new ground in the world of special effects. Although <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tterminator+2+judgment+day/tterminator++++2+judgment+day/1%2C2%2C9%2CB/exact&FF=tterminator++++2+judgment+day&1%2C8%2C">Terminator 2: Judgment Day</a> </i>had already used computer generated imagery (or "CGI") to great effect two years previously, <i>Jurassic Park </i>was held up as proof positive that a new era of movie-making had arrived. Here, now, was CGI being used to create the appearance of living, breathing dinosaurs. There was a bit of a <a href="http://www.bostonglobe.com/ideas/2012/05/05/dude-this-headline-meta-dude-this-headline-meta/it75G5CSqi82NtoQHIucEP/story.html">meta</a> effect going on with <i>Jurassic Park: </i>just as movie character John Hammond had found scientists capable of recreating 65 million year old animals from rebuilt DNA, so had director Steven Spielberg found artists capable of recreating those same animals -- but out of computer programs and pixels. The result of the latter was a new world of visuals that was like nothing the movie-going public had ever seen before.<br />
<br />
To say it succeeded audience expectations is to put it far too mildly. These days, movie trailers cram in shots of the film's most impressive special effect sequences, in an effort to entice audiences into the theaters. But the trailers for <i>Jurassic Park </i>had not made fully apparent what audiences could expect to see, saving all of the best effects shots for the movie itself. The resulting anticipation to see what the movie had to offer was a huge reason why so many people -- myself included -- went to see the film ... and our anticipation was definitely rewarded.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpXv57-ZqA2zY2uOl4HyKW41_5HA5ov7TtEDND8k_snDRWso4PNrGVcS1F2ibnE4gXlwAgNzCTC9Xe5BCPHvFWUtJFIF9PvI3OTafG1fgN85Y5TI_SRASR8T-qB8fXbLXs90h29yIQbM/s1600/rtuk_feature_renderman_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpXv57-ZqA2zY2uOl4HyKW41_5HA5ov7TtEDND8k_snDRWso4PNrGVcS1F2ibnE4gXlwAgNzCTC9Xe5BCPHvFWUtJFIF9PvI3OTafG1fgN85Y5TI_SRASR8T-qB8fXbLXs90h29yIQbM/s400/rtuk_feature_renderman_02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>A computer-generated T-rex eating a Gallimimus (don't worry, the Gallimimus is CGI too)</i></div>
<br />
<br />
The irony, of course, is that so many of <i>Jurassic Park's </i>greatest shots weren't CGI at all. Many of the most memorable sequences -- the T-rex attacking two stalled Jeeps (with passengers still inside them), or a pair of Velociraptors stalking the kids in the Visitor Center kitchen -- were achieved with real, physical models, not CGI effects. Most of the shots of the T-rex, for instance, were not computerized but were instead filmed with puppets and robot pieces designed by special/visual effects wizards Stan Winston and Phil Tippett. From <a href="https://www.stanwinstonschool.com/blog/building-jurassic-park-t-rex-animatronic-dinosaur">building a full-size T-rex robot</a> (weighing in at 9,000 pounds) to <a href="https://www.stanwinstonschool.com/blog/jurassic-park-evolution-of-a-raptor-suit">creating raptor suits for actors to wear</a>, the practical effects gave the film a more "real," physical feel to it than CGI shots alone could have created.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrFMyCaNm1FgFr8w7G2GrgRDNnhqYCzEB6vpIL4HErr0DH5VOZMEHLa2n_KvURcTGa9rDummBCaKpVfEV4x2FPOrbhb83ELxuuevOA_Aj8CMAMqX_sM7yFajg0KJ8w3ttxKa7s478uGI/s1600/content_jurassic-park-t-rex-danger-blog-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrFMyCaNm1FgFr8w7G2GrgRDNnhqYCzEB6vpIL4HErr0DH5VOZMEHLa2n_KvURcTGa9rDummBCaKpVfEV4x2FPOrbhb83ELxuuevOA_Aj8CMAMqX_sM7yFajg0KJ8w3ttxKa7s478uGI/s400/content_jurassic-park-t-rex-danger-blog-11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>One of the T-rex "robots"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
But to be clear, it's not all about the special effects. One other reason that the <i>Jurassic Park </i>franchise has remained such a steadfast favorite for so many fans was the messages behind the movies. It was one of the first big-budget, visual effects bonanzas I ever saw that nonetheless had something to say. The movie had a strong, clear message -- coming through from <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/acrichton+michael/acrichton+michael/1%2C4%2C209%2CB/exact&FF=acrichton+michael+1942+2008&1%2C204%2C/indexsort=-">Michael Crichton</a>'s original novel (Crichton also co-wrote the screenplay) -- about the importance of showing respect, care, and perhaps a little caution within the world of scientific advancements. "Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they <i>could,</i>" snaps Ian Malcolm to an unrepentant John Hammond, "They didn't stop to think if they <i>should.</i>" While the film is in no way anti-science, it does caution its audience against the temptation to misuse knowledge that's been untempered by humility or discipline.</div>
<br />
It's hardly all doom-and-gloom, however. The film's other message -- and it's a strong one -- is the unstoppable force of life. Despite everyone's best attempts to keep the animals of Jurassic Park caged and controlled, the effort is a futile one. Even before the dinosaurs escape, they're forcing their way around the barriers the scientists try to impose: trying to hunt despite being fed, trying to escape despite the fences, and -- most surprising of all, since all the animals were genetically engineered to be female -- building nests and breeding. "Life cannot be contained," Ian Malcolm explains. "Life breaks free, expands to new territories -- painfully, maybe even dangerously. But ... life finds a way."<br />
<i><br /></i>The movie makes clear that its lessons go beyond the boundaries of the story's fiction. <i>J</i><i>urassic Park </i>was released during a time when paleontology was making tremendous breakthroughs in the discipline's understanding of the ancient animals of some 100 million years ago. Originally viewed as sluggish, cold-blooded, and somewhat stupid ancestors of today's reptiles, fresh evidence led scientists to revise their theories. A new understanding was born: dinosaurs were much quicker and more limber than previously thought to be, and many of them had been quite intelligent. What's more, many dinosaurs -- with their particular bone structures and skeletal shape -- are actually closer relatives of today's birds than they are to reptiles.<br />
<br />
The dinosaurs may have died out (precisely why is still unknown, although the most agreed-upon theory is a catastrophic meteorite), but their genes live on in their avian cousins. Life finds a way.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xtfAhV7W62E9FswOgtTy4m7CKuYh6ckqakQ-zjtmawirWYOjQj44DnsuZKrqZ4djfhc8nxnUajg1XU3rLBmFteYuQ6DCqY17npBdR8uCbivmGZIHLrv4nNAp126yxETHYLNssJ9IbQE/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-04-10+at+4.08.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xtfAhV7W62E9FswOgtTy4m7CKuYh6ckqakQ-zjtmawirWYOjQj44DnsuZKrqZ4djfhc8nxnUajg1XU3rLBmFteYuQ6DCqY17npBdR8uCbivmGZIHLrv4nNAp126yxETHYLNssJ9IbQE/s400/Screen+shot+2013-04-10+at+4.08.36+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I was ten years old when <i>Jurassic Park </i>hit theaters, and I can still remember the twin thrills of fear and excitement that shot through me when I first saw the T-rex break through her fencing and start the adventure. The movie took care to set up its story before launching into the thrills, and it was approaching the first-hour mark when the fences went down and the action began. It was a roller-coaster ride of a movie, unlike anything my ten-year-old, dinosaur-loving self had ever seen before. It's the best time I've ever had at a theater.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I watched the movie over and over as a kid. (I can still quote plenty of the lines verbatim.) I eagerly awaited the arrival of the two sequels, and Michael Crichton's <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(jurassic%20park)%20and%20a:(crichton%20michael)%20and%20not%20(junior)%20and%20not%20(movie)&SORT=D&m=a&m=q&m=i&m=n&m=u">original novel</a> (on which the film was based) was the first "grown-up novel" I ever read.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Last weekend saw the release of a new 3-D version of the movie, hitting theaters in celebration of <i>Jurassic Park's </i>20th anniversary. The timing, for me, is strangely fitting: it's right around my thirtieth birthday. What better time to return to theaters and become a kid again?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/gOmJLk1lu08/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gOmJLk1lu08?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOmJLk1lu08">[Video: The Music of Jurassic Park]</a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(jurassic%20park)%20and%20(Jeff%20Goldblum)%20and%20(sam%20neill)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=h">Request <i>Jurassic Park </i>on DVD</a><br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/Xt:(jurassic+park)&SORT=D&m=3/Xt:(jurassic+park)&SORT=D&m=3&SUBKEY=t%3A(jurassic+park)/1%2C4%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=Xt:(jurassic+park)&SORT=D&m=3&1%2C1%2C">Request <i>Jurassic Park </i>on Blu-ray</a><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(lost%20world)%20and%20(jeff%20goldblum)&SORT=D&m=h">Request <i>The Lost World: Jurassic Park </i>on DVD</a><br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(lost%20world)&SORT=D&m=3">Request <i>The Lost World: Jurassic Park </i>on Blu-ray</a><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(jurassic%20park%20iii)&SORT=D&m=h">Request <i>Jurassic Park III </i>on DVD</a><br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(jurassic%20park%20iii)&SORT=D&m=3">Request <i>Jurassic Park III </i>on Blu-ray</a><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(jurassic%20park)%20and%20a:(crichton%20michael)%20and%20not%20(junior)%20and%20not%20(movie)&SORT=D&m=a&m=q&m=i&m=n&m=u">Request the novel <i>Jurassic Park </i>by Michael Crichton</a><br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=t:(lost%20world)%20and%20a:(crichton%20michael)%20and%20not%20(junior)&SORT=D&m=a&m=q&m=i&m=n&m=u">Request the novel <i>The Lost World </i>by Michael Crichton</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdE5g2g5qlbbzc-5lq0gmb7theBuO5DbdDt0d5VrCknvJQJvBhmQuwYKmNUljK1y_u23ms-rPMm_vD3g6WNor6sHQtrrWbPQxb2ze35zgAfA_WUegb8RlOkSHud2OPNG58KW8U1rkCWYM/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-04-10+at+4.17.40+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdE5g2g5qlbbzc-5lq0gmb7theBuO5DbdDt0d5VrCknvJQJvBhmQuwYKmNUljK1y_u23ms-rPMm_vD3g6WNor6sHQtrrWbPQxb2ze35zgAfA_WUegb8RlOkSHud2OPNG58KW8U1rkCWYM/s400/Screen+shot+2013-04-10+at+4.17.40+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a></span></span></span></span></span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-17115763586840409462015-06-04T11:39:00.001-04:002015-06-04T11:39:26.271-04:00Summer Reading 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZtcq5ZQeTCuSqsL3Q1MqYaNzyj4-HOc6DnoTKopyuCObpEgQ-x6vZ-JBRg2VLgJNN9rvV_3ztvUdlT6ExpR5ezInw1lZR6wI-jj-C1mL7Fu1jXbXCb6I30a1Qt2NqhNYA1lTSvK8wFo/s1600/Unmask.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZtcq5ZQeTCuSqsL3Q1MqYaNzyj4-HOc6DnoTKopyuCObpEgQ-x6vZ-JBRg2VLgJNN9rvV_3ztvUdlT6ExpR5ezInw1lZR6wI-jj-C1mL7Fu1jXbXCb6I30a1Qt2NqhNYA1lTSvK8wFo/s400/Unmask.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Summer Reading 2015 @ Monroeville Public Library!</b></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Monday, June 8</b> kicks off our Summer Reading Programs here at MPL -- for kids, teens, and adults alike. Read on to find out more about our programs for you and your family this summertime season!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>For Kids:</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCQt_3Ve0qJFgO4ziBsMGMQ43kJUkWwVtSk1aS1nyzsdDlpfefbfNk4wDwBdyhvd2xX2IKfPxo6EKhJXvgyB3UOLdHCKxgLoFGmI5DuEx_81v9I6VULHc6tr2EI1rnKXDSkh-widb3It0/s1600/srp_webpage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCQt_3Ve0qJFgO4ziBsMGMQ43kJUkWwVtSk1aS1nyzsdDlpfefbfNk4wDwBdyhvd2xX2IKfPxo6EKhJXvgyB3UOLdHCKxgLoFGmI5DuEx_81v9I6VULHc6tr2EI1rnKXDSkh-widb3It0/s320/srp_webpage.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Discover that <i>Every Hero Has a Story</i> with this year's summer reading theme! Children who have not yet started first grade can sign up for the Read To Me Club, where parents keep a list of at least 20 books that they share with their child. Older students can participate in the Summer Reading Club, where the goal is to read at least 10 books throughout the summer. There will be activities for all ages, contests, and prizes.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.monroevillelibrary.org/kids.php">Check out all of our Children's Programs at MPL's website!</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>For Teens:</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEw4OaKjK6w3sdeby7-f0z8qtR2uXlOL-ntH_PLw-9FMFqX8o9r-9CNAG6V1GOL5e-uq2MtRwYcyxBqPpj6us8Pg_qciriWC8AHD9ed0SnwN4u-iiOf6lbGP84KwJxdAG2Ec4NSjHPqFg/s1600/TSR2015.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEw4OaKjK6w3sdeby7-f0z8qtR2uXlOL-ntH_PLw-9FMFqX8o9r-9CNAG6V1GOL5e-uq2MtRwYcyxBqPpj6us8Pg_qciriWC8AHD9ed0SnwN4u-iiOf6lbGP84KwJxdAG2Ec4NSjHPqFg/s400/TSR2015.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i>Unmask </i>your inner superhero with this year's annual Teen Summer Reading (TSR) program! TSR is open to all students finishing grades 5-12. Read all summer to earn tickets for our TSR raffle drawings -- and be sure to attend one of our great summer events, which include gaming programs, a mini comic-con, robotic crafts, book clubs, science spectaculars, a stargazing party, and a great wrap-up with our annual End-of-Summer party. There are special weekly drawings for extra prizes, and every teen who reads at least 5 books or writes 3 book reviews will win a special gift card. Stop by the Welcome Desk to get your book tickets and program packet starting this Monday!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/monroevillelibrary/events">Check out all of our Teen Programs at MPL's Facebook Events Page!</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>For Adults:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-2HTfiDHS6rJgKHosGZB1RT8Zzzdj0cM905vOxNEItNJaj8UdZirr_Fjh5GxvFxIboFbioqUrRgAiZqskYS7_2F7a9d9RvZRr2WZZPnlKiw7tf2LDmifoPu49-BS5VyYBllVTJyMnLI/s1600/Escape-the-Ordinary_K-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-2HTfiDHS6rJgKHosGZB1RT8Zzzdj0cM905vOxNEItNJaj8UdZirr_Fjh5GxvFxIboFbioqUrRgAiZqskYS7_2F7a9d9RvZRr2WZZPnlKiw7tf2LDmifoPu49-BS5VyYBllVTJyMnLI/s400/Escape-the-Ordinary_K-copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<i>Escape the Ordinary </i>with our Adult Summer Reading Program! Join us for great prizes -- including the grand prize, a Kindle Fire HD awarded August 10th! Other prizes will also be given away on June 22, July 6, July 20, and August 3, so be sure to turn in your raffle tickets often. ALL entries will be eligible for the Grand Prize.<br />
<br />
No minimum reading requirements! Open to adults 18 years and older.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i></i>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-50891450730126332462015-05-28T17:33:00.000-04:002015-05-28T17:33:05.222-04:005 Picks from the June Library Reads list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELUpg47KV9YZxbS4kx8BPJLJUziF70OyM89pZyj1lAlyXxh6JH1Fs4vrldDzRgwjmrCNX42I7bU-DsC5ogHKjvs2_T6_S-BP2IaSYBfJojOALH_hEXpG0KHwzDndZ7hPe2nxZCcQ9lmmE/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_JUNE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="50" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELUpg47KV9YZxbS4kx8BPJLJUziF70OyM89pZyj1lAlyXxh6JH1Fs4vrldDzRgwjmrCNX42I7bU-DsC5ogHKjvs2_T6_S-BP2IaSYBfJojOALH_hEXpG0KHwzDndZ7hPe2nxZCcQ9lmmE/s400/LibraryReads_banner1_JUNE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are a few of the June choices from librarians around the country. Click on title name to request a copy today!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/800-grapes-blog1-200x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/800-grapes-blog1-200x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=eight+hundred+grapes&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=Yeight+hundred+grapes%26SORT%3DD" target="_blank"><b>Eight Hundred Grapes: A Novel</b></a><br />
by Laura Dave<br />
<br />
“Take your time and savor the family dynamics. Enjoy the romantic twists in this tale of a career-minded young woman circling back to her roots at a California winery. The appeal is broader than that of a romance since it delves into the complexities of various relationships — parent to parent, parents and children, even winery and owner. This is an excellent summer read!”<br />
<br />
Joan Hipp, Florham Park Public Library, Florham Park, NJ<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Truth-According-blog-197x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Truth-According-blog-197x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=truth+according+to+us&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=teight+hundred+grapes" target="_blank"><b>The Truth According to Us: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Annie Barrows</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“It is 1938 in a rural West Virginia town and a young woman arrives to write the town’s history. Layla doesn’t really know what to expect from the town, and the town doesn’t know what to make of her. This is the heart of the South, the soul of small towns, where everyone looks out for you and knows your history. Sweet story tailor-made for fans of Billie Letts, Fannie Flagg, Pat Conroy and Harper Lee.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Kimberly McGee, Lake Travis Community Library, Austin, TX</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Book-Speculation-blog-193x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Book-Speculation-blog-193x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=book+of+speculation&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=ttruth+according+to+us" target="_blank"><b>The Book of Speculation: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Erica Swyler</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“A roller coaster of a read! This is the story of a librarian from a splintered family with a tragic past who is gifted a mysterious book that leads him to dive deep into his family’s history, all while his present life seems to be falling to pieces around him. If you loved Morgenstern’s The Night Circus or Kostova’s The Historian, this is a book for you.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Amanda Monson, Bartow County Library System, Cartersville, GA</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Unlikely-Event-blog-201x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Unlikely-Event-blog-201x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=in+the+unlikely+event&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tbook+of+speculation" target="_blank"><b>In the Unlikely Event: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Judy Blume</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“The obvious ‘unlikely events’ of Judy Blume’s latest — the three plane crashes afflicting Elizabeth, NJ in one horrifying winter — set the framework for everyday unlikely events around love, family, friendship, relating all that can go so wrong, and so right, with all three. Readers will enjoy the period detail and relatable characters that feature in this hybrid domestic/disaster tale.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Becky Bowen, Kenton County Public Library, Independence, KY</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/precipiceblog-197x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://libraryreads.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/precipiceblog-197x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tprecipice/tprecipice/1%2C11%2C11%2CB/frameset&FF=tprecipice&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank"><b>The Precipice: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Paul Doiron</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“When two women go missing while hiking a difficult part of the Appalachian Trail, Maine game warden Mike Bowditch helps in trying to determine where the women were last seen. Mike then discovers there is no shortage of people whose behaviors make them suspicious. With a puzzle that keeps the reader guessing, and a main character that you can’t help but empathize with, The Precipice is another home run for Doiron.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Lora Bruggeman, Indian Prairie Public Library, Darien, IL</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i></div>
Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-30396465649317175802015-04-30T17:48:00.004-04:002015-04-30T17:48:36.225-04:005 picks from the May Library Reads list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3f4XdvKuvyHRMrL-t9O6t2ouuPco4MM6Q4OGWuL4sE0MxZIYCFo3oD8yFT5sjdLGNbPYg1muvmzC8m3yrqfu03vo_t4B16y4BnZlrCr91NKzkIRzL2ZWq5LLI24PF5O7rRdfhfqL0210z/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_MAY2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3f4XdvKuvyHRMrL-t9O6t2ouuPco4MM6Q4OGWuL4sE0MxZIYCFo3oD8yFT5sjdLGNbPYg1muvmzC8m3yrqfu03vo_t4B16y4BnZlrCr91NKzkIRzL2ZWq5LLI24PF5O7rRdfhfqL0210z/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_MAY2015.jpg" height="41" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are a few good reading recommendations from librarians across the country!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWdBtbnQaZ60yBQ0XA7Fbtd_qb0UApyAgpKh0WGiJbidZ6K-P51V7krXQ6rI5jLhLONaWGq-SvoM6SgVD3tbco3C9en2X8YB0ktgU9ym4gUSiWON2R9zvS6HM6LacHo_Mo8rq5NSWE0ZA/s1600/Uprooted-204x300-204x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWdBtbnQaZ60yBQ0XA7Fbtd_qb0UApyAgpKh0WGiJbidZ6K-P51V7krXQ6rI5jLhLONaWGq-SvoM6SgVD3tbco3C9en2X8YB0ktgU9ym4gUSiWON2R9zvS6HM6LacHo_Mo8rq5NSWE0ZA/s1600/Uprooted-204x300-204x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tuprooted/tuprooted/1%2C11%2C11%2CB/frameset&FF=tuprooted&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank"><b>Uprooted</b></a><br />
by Naomi Novik<br />
<br />
“A young girl is unexpectedly uprooted from her family and becomes involved in a centuries-old battle with The Wood, a malevolent entity which destroys anyone it touches. Fast-paced, with magic, mystery and romance, Novik’s stand-alone novel is a fairy tale for adults.”<br />
<br />
Lucy Lockley, St. Charles City-County Library, St. Peters, MO<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyCipAyMeEIbUd7_YOosAJU5GB75MFafINTrB1O2PsLctS1U_75WEHiwJdc4vF-GjrY-vFJz9T03ycDcA2le4deTCx9uWEboMTPqECi_nb5pzPsevz6hK7LYj3j_kPJAVQs_KGwEJdJcn/s1600/GodinRuins-194x300-194x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyCipAyMeEIbUd7_YOosAJU5GB75MFafINTrB1O2PsLctS1U_75WEHiwJdc4vF-GjrY-vFJz9T03ycDcA2le4deTCx9uWEboMTPqECi_nb5pzPsevz6hK7LYj3j_kPJAVQs_KGwEJdJcn/s1600/GodinRuins-194x300-194x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tgod+in+ruins/tgod+in+ruins/1%2C6%2C6%2CB/frameset&FF=tgod+in+ruins+a+novel&4%2C4%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank"><b>A God in Ruins: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
by Kate Atkinson</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
“In A God in Ruins, we become reacquainted with Teddy Todd, the beloved little brother of Ursula from Atkinson’s last book. As with Life After Life, this novel skims back and forth in time, and we see the last half of the 20th century through Ted’s eyes and the eyes of his loved ones. At times funny and at others heartbreaking, Atkinson revels in the beauty and horror of life in all its messiness.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jennifer Dayton, Darien Library, Darien, CT</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0ppwyGWXFbcC1EB_UoH_0NOzxMI-MUDO5DTVTvClrtZ0o9ibo0obowySYaaOeJB1RB9Xzew26uaWr9PirFxosT7oHRFAy8_ebbHF5E0YkiNEil5SKmayOtKOOVK6fHFTgfNW1QR82n8w/s1600/Knockoff-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0ppwyGWXFbcC1EB_UoH_0NOzxMI-MUDO5DTVTvClrtZ0o9ibo0obowySYaaOeJB1RB9Xzew26uaWr9PirFxosT7oHRFAy8_ebbHF5E0YkiNEil5SKmayOtKOOVK6fHFTgfNW1QR82n8w/s1600/Knockoff-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tknockoff/tknockoff/1%2C4%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=tknockoff&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank"><b>The Knockoff: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Lucy Sykes and Jo Piazza</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“The Knockoff is a digital-age mash-up of old-school movies The Women and All About Eve, set in the Devil Wears Prada world of a high fashion magazine. I absolutely loved this fresh, charming, addictive and ultimately heroic story of 40-something cancer survivor Imogen’s quest to rescue and rebuild her career, despite the machinations of a younger tech-wiz rival.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Janet Schneider, Bryant Library, Roslyn, NY</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcHUtVv2w8oLcAS_2MPO-EBZiY-uHWyD_RWhvlh9D981VCwa2spTglvhz5F1D9AZDthlwGqSg5vhz3JYZhzdwBTV0FzX39eLzu4dr0vPXd6y5Ak_ktlamM5SOecvw_1SL5rh9soMS5ga6w/s1600/Seveneves-200x300-200x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcHUtVv2w8oLcAS_2MPO-EBZiY-uHWyD_RWhvlh9D981VCwa2spTglvhz5F1D9AZDthlwGqSg5vhz3JYZhzdwBTV0FzX39eLzu4dr0vPXd6y5Ak_ktlamM5SOecvw_1SL5rh9soMS5ga6w/s1600/Seveneves-200x300-200x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Seveneves&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=r&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tknockoff" target="_blank"><b>Seveneves: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Neal Stephenson</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“Stephenson’s back in fine form with this hard science fiction masterpiece, combining the detail of Cryptonomicon with the fast-paced action of Reamde. Fans of Anathem will appreciate Stephenson’s speculation about the possibilities of human evolution. This book is a great follow-up for readers who enjoyed the science of Weir’s The Martian. I heartily recommend Seveneves to SF readers.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Keith Hayes, Wake County Public Libraries, Cary, NC</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6aJs_Y32eay0HiuMHoSTCME8yjK8q4M6gsZIASXLqQnpvCk6AQnhCA7wxqoFReFsNkv_2E1jSuxua1wf-3slCxrnNUZNo5dEhfvT3A5ktxUtXvhDUxr4Yl4F1AGsThjL8YVqaBtEu-U9v/s1600/OurSoulsatNight-202x300-202x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6aJs_Y32eay0HiuMHoSTCME8yjK8q4M6gsZIASXLqQnpvCk6AQnhCA7wxqoFReFsNkv_2E1jSuxua1wf-3slCxrnNUZNo5dEhfvT3A5ktxUtXvhDUxr4Yl4F1AGsThjL8YVqaBtEu-U9v/s1600/OurSoulsatNight-202x300-202x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=our+souls+at+night&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=r&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tSeveneves" target="_blank"><b>Our Souls at Night: A Novel</b></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
by Kent Haruf</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
“Beautiful, elegant and poignant, this novel is a distilled experience of Haruf’s writing. The story of how two elders attempt to poke at the loneliness and isolation that surrounds them will stick with me for a long time to come. I’m amazed at how Haruf says so much with such spare prose. He will be missed.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Alison Kastner, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-75206149713039679402015-04-22T14:01:00.000-04:002015-04-22T14:01:12.210-04:004 Book Club Recommendations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF90GIZnd3rJKYeAelJ-7Z6HQvqqG3gWeKVSJoyUBXerONppP7Fes3y4LOtFJNxotSt2lVdWBtVFuopVY1lmQHqVr7YJVPvkn2dqRJD8-5KiFgcPNRBserqgznLCPVkoIHnNbqsmi5FhQV/s1600/Book_Club_logo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF90GIZnd3rJKYeAelJ-7Z6HQvqqG3gWeKVSJoyUBXerONppP7Fes3y4LOtFJNxotSt2lVdWBtVFuopVY1lmQHqVr7YJVPvkn2dqRJD8-5KiFgcPNRBserqgznLCPVkoIHnNbqsmi5FhQV/s1600/Book_Club_logo1.jpg" height="221" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We have several different book discussion groups here at Monroeville Public Library. I've been the leader of one of those groups for quite a few years and have read a lot of different types of books. Some have been really good and some not so good. Here are four that my group has read over the last two years that were enjoyed by all.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGHREJRTHhHBCor7LRpTbYMs8CGSfLa9QnPtFC5mny7Ph46HQACn7h6Ur8fFIIw7lvBmd_bE4yhtChPwNA2AL2N_HrhgnZi4art4dBq5y0lne4BcanTpa8-F1uI1apkQtF3xYHZv8D1qq/s1600/5182bDzgaNL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGHREJRTHhHBCor7LRpTbYMs8CGSfLa9QnPtFC5mny7Ph46HQACn7h6Ur8fFIIw7lvBmd_bE4yhtChPwNA2AL2N_HrhgnZi4art4dBq5y0lne4BcanTpa8-F1uI1apkQtF3xYHZv8D1qq/s1600/5182bDzgaNL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=girls+of+atomic+city&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tunlikely+pilgrimage+of+harold+fry" target="_blank">The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win World War II</a> by Denise Kiernan</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This well researched book tells the true story of the thousands of women (and men) who worked at a top secret facility in Kentucky during World War Two. An entire town was created to house all of the people who were performing jobs that they had no idea how it was contributing to the war effort. Young women came from all over the United States not having any idea where they were going or how long they would be there. It wasn't until the U.S. dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima that they realized what they had been apart of. Denise Kiernan introduces the reader to many different women doing many different types of jobs. This was a definite hit with our book group.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAIyMAaz28ZzAUchaWd75eQPpLg1x-jkcsbYv0qBWlbs8lo3BIZVVZkBTDRD85lRri72Sstlzqo9V5l-UoHwh6etAVhjnFYo5I9eE9TEIlMJl7ZtS9Xg1LBil82y8ByEsAjOYdDyB122b/s1600/511Sndco+XL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAIyMAaz28ZzAUchaWd75eQPpLg1x-jkcsbYv0qBWlbs8lo3BIZVVZkBTDRD85lRri72Sstlzqo9V5l-UoHwh6etAVhjnFYo5I9eE9TEIlMJl7ZtS9Xg1LBil82y8ByEsAjOYdDyB122b/s1600/511Sndco+XL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=unlikely+pilgrimage+of+harold+fry&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tlost+city+of+z" target="_blank">The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry</a> by Rachel Joyce</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Harold Fry is a reserved, retired Englishman who has just found out that an old friend of his is dying. He decides to send her a letter, but on his walk to the post office he somehow ends up on a pilgrimage to visit this friend who is in a nursing home almost 500 hundred miles to the north. As he walks, Harold examines his marriage, his career and the mistakes he has made throughout his life. Along the way he becomes a bit of a cult figure with an entourage following him. We all found this to be a sweet and heart warming book.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHK9KUCAVdvCzaUty7FKULvpHnCG1IUmNqoHGZhHMK8wi5AI7ihpwr8wBWEYgRiiKAfGN9LOIJ2HM4y9Hlwhsg2vybuJ_dZiKCASraRLyqZALN_jHx9-X8xi_9VfUDobDj5m8sFC3KMUJ/s1600/61XTEvhHoEL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHK9KUCAVdvCzaUty7FKULvpHnCG1IUmNqoHGZhHMK8wi5AI7ihpwr8wBWEYgRiiKAfGN9LOIJ2HM4y9Hlwhsg2vybuJ_dZiKCASraRLyqZALN_jHx9-X8xi_9VfUDobDj5m8sFC3KMUJ/s1600/61XTEvhHoEL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tlost+city+of+z/tlost+city+of+z/1%2C2%2C6%2CB/exact&FF=tlost+city+of+z+a+tale+of+deadly+obsession+in+the+amazon&1%2C5%2C" target="_blank">The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon</a> by David Grann</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The subtitle for this book really sets the stage for this fascinating story. David Grann, staff reporter for <i>The New Yorker</i>, follows in the footsteps of Percy Fawcett. Fawcett was a British explorer who disappeared in the Amazon in 1925. He was in search of El Dorado or, as he called it, The Lost City of Z. Many men have gone in search of El Dorado and to find out what happened to Fawcett's expedition but they either never returned themselves or didn't learn anything new. But what made this middle-aged city boy take on this adventure? Read the book for yourself to find out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKCcAZd7kS-W-q6en1DSKuV5FKWBFJ1mOI0aRY3g-qlKxuMIb1fBlfgJbIfZK4GiN6QJkYzosaZsczi_f-Vh2iZ5X5ecrMtALbz12fsVBgHu7yjgUSzrbrg2it4atox7lAM1NRKZxg29z/s1600/51vjFaSZXJL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKCcAZd7kS-W-q6en1DSKuV5FKWBFJ1mOI0aRY3g-qlKxuMIb1fBlfgJbIfZK4GiN6QJkYzosaZsczi_f-Vh2iZ5X5ecrMtALbz12fsVBgHu7yjgUSzrbrg2it4atox7lAM1NRKZxg29z/s1600/51vjFaSZXJL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="210" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=plague+of+doves&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tgirls+of+atomic+city" target="_blank">The Plague of Doves</a> by Louise Erdrich</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like many of Louise Erdrich's books, this one tells a story of Native Americans in North Dakota struggling with their past and their present. This time the story is centered around the mystery of the murder of a family in 1911. A lynch mob is formed to find the killers. Three Indian men are hanged for the murder, while young Mooshum Milk is not. As the years pass the families of both groups, the hanged and the posse, develop complex relationships with one another. While there are parts of the book that feel like they don't quite belong, Erdrich weaves an intricate tale of how the actions of a few so long ago, affected so many. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i></div>
Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-80027204017274037912015-04-08T11:35:00.005-04:002015-04-08T11:35:59.578-04:005 picks from March Library Reads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEWIawMFVg4ycqhj8oL_tNDRBTXlWy41rQNPhYlpz7Ud2F04607jXwkCL6AK4aL3gKMgKtkSw62z0a8GhWStkZHnqlTVxSYBJ_-Sa-UFFD1kYhuMgKigIVT2N-KFTKOgz0q9k6KHSvZRz/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_APRIL2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEWIawMFVg4ycqhj8oL_tNDRBTXlWy41rQNPhYlpz7Ud2F04607jXwkCL6AK4aL3gKMgKtkSw62z0a8GhWStkZHnqlTVxSYBJ_-Sa-UFFD1kYhuMgKigIVT2N-KFTKOgz0q9k6KHSvZRz/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_APRIL2015.jpg" height="41" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are five of the picks from <a href="http://libraryreads.org/" target="_blank">April's Library Reads</a>. Enjoy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgERrONFVBeEDQqWyihEARe2gSkwdTS1cympD3qFSqeEwB3_2ld69eeINpZa3NCIYVh8Mimk7k1w65bUwa1MmuIuGICNhJOp62CuvuH_0fDGD53nYaXKg7mgYC-nEBs5UyrXBXfb2xSOg/s1600/AttheWatersEdge-198x300-198x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgERrONFVBeEDQqWyihEARe2gSkwdTS1cympD3qFSqeEwB3_2ld69eeINpZa3NCIYVh8Mimk7k1w65bUwa1MmuIuGICNhJOp62CuvuH_0fDGD53nYaXKg7mgYC-nEBs5UyrXBXfb2xSOg/s1600/AttheWatersEdge-198x300-198x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tat+the+water%27s+edge/tat+the+waters+edge/1%2C9%2C12%2CB/exact&FF=tat+the+waters+edge+a+novel&1%2C2%2C" target="_blank">At the Water’s Edge: A Novel</a></b></div>
<div>
by Sara Gruen</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
“Set in Loch Ness, right in the middle of WWII, a foolish group of rich Americans arrive in search of the famous monster. Narrator Maddie must make sense of the circumstances that have brought her to this wild locale. Only then can she discover the strength she needs to make her own decisions. Enjoy a delightfully intriguing cast of characters and the engaging style of storytelling that has made Gruen so popular.”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Paulette Brooks, Elm Grove Public Library, Elm Grove, WI<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie319eB7f0X_B2_8Qy8t1qpPu_bmBdvFX2gw4kJMxpxfZjjzl-uYrhR5mMmAdIzXxhMcsATU9R3rBWWPm052FCOsR-O1-uJnF3yr9lEWi71rO8DOIvMjB3Jip8ftbp-LpP2cjdn0yiwi38/s1600/RoyalWe-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie319eB7f0X_B2_8Qy8t1qpPu_bmBdvFX2gw4kJMxpxfZjjzl-uYrhR5mMmAdIzXxhMcsATU9R3rBWWPm052FCOsR-O1-uJnF3yr9lEWi71rO8DOIvMjB3Jip8ftbp-LpP2cjdn0yiwi38/s1600/RoyalWe-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/troyal+we/troyal+we/1%2C51%2C51%2CB/frameset&FF=troyal+we&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">The Royal We</a></b></div>
<div>
by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
“This delightful spin on the story of Prince William and Kate Middleton is the perfect beachy, weekend read for anyone who loves love stories with a healthy dose of humor. Here, Will and Kate are replaced by Nick and Bex–he’s the heir to the British throne, she’s the American who effortlessly steals his heart. Can they weather many obstacles to find their Happily Ever After? Part fairy tale, part cautionary tale, the novel is pure fun from start to finish.”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Donna Matturri, Pickerington Public Library, Pickerington, OH<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjEFmoOaWjP2DtbNVaybZ38_p9VLjQVxMqADhYu3fI73ElTe8WlW4PC9GIQ_qMR2nAS2PEuowjw-bBjbTW2w0CiX_BHgEcO8D57ByVmtxjgcS5cBHwyGOuXofKlY502_mB8uVW_4oaXg9/s1600/HouseofEchoes-193x300-193x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjEFmoOaWjP2DtbNVaybZ38_p9VLjQVxMqADhYu3fI73ElTe8WlW4PC9GIQ_qMR2nAS2PEuowjw-bBjbTW2w0CiX_BHgEcO8D57ByVmtxjgcS5cBHwyGOuXofKlY502_mB8uVW_4oaXg9/s1600/HouseofEchoes-193x300-193x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/thouse+of+echoes/thouse+of+echoes/1%2C3%2C3%2CB/frameset&FF=thouse+of+echoes+a+novel&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">House of Echoes: A Novel</a></b></div>
<div>
by Brendan Duffy</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
“Eager to get out of the big city, Ben and Caroline Tierney purchase a large, old house upstate hoping to renovate it into a hotel. However, their house, called The Crofts, has a dark, mysterious past, and terrifying secrets begin to threaten the family. This wonderfully eerie and atmospheric debut novel is a great recommendation for fans of Bohjalian’s The Night Strangers and McMahon’s The Winter People.”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sara Kennedy, Delaware County District Library, Delaware, OH</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBUXSzUqLMxAOD3s_Z2Z1pdycooNgVQ-94cjsGVyAoKCYq9AtGs8BgPt1w3sm-DYXpmnE8_4IfM97ZgXst2nhEx4KjdRVn9TRLQRPraQ4FAQk1WFSDuxcw6MnX-_gjaOYFLqV4MDLssSn7/s1600/PreciousOne-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBUXSzUqLMxAOD3s_Z2Z1pdycooNgVQ-94cjsGVyAoKCYq9AtGs8BgPt1w3sm-DYXpmnE8_4IfM97ZgXst2nhEx4KjdRVn9TRLQRPraQ4FAQk1WFSDuxcw6MnX-_gjaOYFLqV4MDLssSn7/s1600/PreciousOne-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/q?author=de+los+santos&title=precious+one&searchscope=1" target="_blank">The Precious One: A Novel</a></b></div>
<div>
by Marisa de los Santos</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
“Taisy hasn’t seen her father since he dumped her family and started another one 17 years ago. An unexpected invitation to write his biography returns her to her hometown, and gives her a rare chance to knit together a broken web of relationships. Like all de los Santos’ books, The Precious One features smart, funny characters who form an unconventional family. It’s luminous and heartwarming, without an ounce of sap.”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Heather Bistyga, Anderson County Library, Anderson, SC<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNXPynjGe4UTOjYY8mXBteXTz9Zl1zu1YRX8N3_5tguzc3NYVtDsY_PcU_VTJD85e778Dg7BXmQ4J38bJaHWqmZCUDsBhyvYrxZUO2uyVon9ZvMNzK9gpiBZkkSMQsil10mLQJ-_J9Bmm/s1600/BoneTree-198x300-198x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNXPynjGe4UTOjYY8mXBteXTz9Zl1zu1YRX8N3_5tguzc3NYVtDsY_PcU_VTJD85e778Dg7BXmQ4J38bJaHWqmZCUDsBhyvYrxZUO2uyVon9ZvMNzK9gpiBZkkSMQsil10mLQJ-_J9Bmm/s1600/BoneTree-198x300-198x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=bone+tree&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=ade+los+santos" target="_blank">The Bone Tree: A Novel</a></b></div>
<div>
by Greg Iles</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
“Based on a real series of unsolved murders from the civil rights era in Louisiana, and the crusading journalist who uncovered the story, Iles’ novel shines a bright light of truth upon one of America’s darkest secrets. Iles’ compelling writing makes this complex tale of good versus evil a must-read for those who love thrillers, and those who want to learn a little bit of American history not normally taught in school.”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ellen Jennings, Cook Memorial Public Library, Libertyville, IL</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i></div>
Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-57377614108866469622015-03-31T13:13:00.003-04:002015-03-31T13:42:11.758-04:006 Reasons Why "Interstellar" Was the Best Film of 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtMu3y9d1ZsGfZNrzsrMU5hAkgCGTlLw5VH-2dFpFJBxkZxtgHu_Rt6qmzH9BWId61wA73QotPtXxr0M8sfD4wVKVdnJeHdICzO1aNDRhcpsjUyoGiTjsBDN6nTTgNC-tUlLgBxkRJbo/s1600/interstellarx04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtMu3y9d1ZsGfZNrzsrMU5hAkgCGTlLw5VH-2dFpFJBxkZxtgHu_Rt6qmzH9BWId61wA73QotPtXxr0M8sfD4wVKVdnJeHdICzO1aNDRhcpsjUyoGiTjsBDN6nTTgNC-tUlLgBxkRJbo/s1600/interstellarx04.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
March 31 marks the release of <i>Interstellar </i>on DVD and Blu-ray. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this sci-fi film is set in a future in which the earth is being gradually overtaken by the Blight, a mysterious ailment that is destroying the planet's crops one by one. Cooper, a NASA pilot turned farmer, is trying to balance a job in which he has little interest with raising his two children, Tom and Murph (short for Murphy).<br />
<br />
When Murph unlocks a mysterious puzzle that sends her and her father stumbling into an undercover NASA base, Cooper suddenly finds himself hired to undertake a seemingly impossible mission: follow the cosmic breadcrumbs out into the far reaches of interstellar space -- and find a new planet for humanity to inhabit before Earth becomes a barren wasteland. Joining the crew of Dr. Brand (the NASA scientist overseeing the mission), Cooper will pilot the ship that will take them farther than any human being has ever been before -- even as Cooper fights to get back home to his family.<br />
<br />
Released last year, the film was a smash hit. As a sci-fi buff, it was the 2014 movie I was most excited for -- so I was elated when <i>Interstellar </i>turned out to be the weird, wild, wonderful, and wholly unique ride I had hoped it would be.<br />
<br />
Haven't seen it yet? Here's six reasons why you should give it a go:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1.) You haven't seen space like this before</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVu4idOm2pnPpHFY4sIJ8MEHajopeY-wD__C0jibq2NEps6eCO-whR48_IbuB6FblozRaM6mCH-knZzbX8MmpkyonZ5hAu6M5qKH6D56JqQo36dU_5t8wkidmPYyt8eyTvUSXoQQGQ38/s1600/Interstellar-Featurette-Kip-Thorne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVu4idOm2pnPpHFY4sIJ8MEHajopeY-wD__C0jibq2NEps6eCO-whR48_IbuB6FblozRaM6mCH-knZzbX8MmpkyonZ5hAu6M5qKH6D56JqQo36dU_5t8wkidmPYyt8eyTvUSXoQQGQ38/s1600/Interstellar-Featurette-Kip-Thorne.jpg" height="206" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
Nolan named <i><a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b19235057/Home?searchId=21479207&recordIndex=2&page=1">2001: A Space Odyssey</a> </i>as one of the films that served as his inspiration for <i>Interstellar, </i>and it's easy to see that influence in the awe-inspiring shots of space that the Endurance crew travel through.<br />
<i><br /></i>
But since the release of the Stanley Kubrick classic, there's been a plethora of films set in outer space, from <i>Apollo 13 </i>to <i>Gravity. </i>What makes Nolan's take unique? First, there's consultant Kip Thorne, a theoretical physicist whose expert advice and theories allowed the effects crews to offer a unique take on such typical sci-fi fare as wormholes and ice planets. Then there's Nolan's commitment to practical, physical effects over computerized effects whenever possible. Obviously, a sci-fi film like this one will demand the use of some CGI -- but with much of the action being made without the use of a computer, the film often has a more physical feel to it than similar genre offerings.<br />
<br />
Best of all, for me, was the chance to see the film in IMAX. The larger-than-life screen packed an extra-powerful wallop, as sheer size helped bring to life the silent, lonely, terrifying, and beautiful emptiness of space. Never before has a film so effectively offered me a window into what a trip through outer space might really be like.<br />
<br />
Speaking of:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>2.) The alien worlds are actually alien</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGAdFpMg6850VfxXgESJql9pSv3KaT7y5S8kpfgatMnVpxordVejZnVB4aTW16nsTcZ7umdJUmw2YqMvQfZzsza35JvWmvfoWl3SW7c_Dr7Rgaenw_iFGn5HTZgydfNC2Krn8TN7URbo/s1600/Iceplanet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGAdFpMg6850VfxXgESJql9pSv3KaT7y5S8kpfgatMnVpxordVejZnVB4aTW16nsTcZ7umdJUmw2YqMvQfZzsza35JvWmvfoWl3SW7c_Dr7Rgaenw_iFGn5HTZgydfNC2Krn8TN7URbo/s1600/Iceplanet3.jpg" height="167" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Being a Christopher Nolan fan girl, all it took were the words "Nolan" and "outer space" to pique my interest in <i>Interstellar. </i>But it wasn't until I caught the film's trailer that I realized I was in for something special. In the trailer, we're shown a scene in which the Endurance crew have landed on a watery world which is caught in the massive gravitational pull of a nearby black hole.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
The crew looks out across the alien sea towards a mountain range in the distance:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9jOHFW2WeA48yiW721QHWJZVHvu1ajMEUkYjJlAMFQimWLIJkc0t50FtEL-98AVMYS3YdPTOtDmUf1lPyc_24qMbTmUVkvPFydo2pfn9Mi58iqULy3TFSH8foXkf0He7EDszmN6gZxk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-27+at+3.47.06+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9jOHFW2WeA48yiW721QHWJZVHvu1ajMEUkYjJlAMFQimWLIJkc0t50FtEL-98AVMYS3YdPTOtDmUf1lPyc_24qMbTmUVkvPFydo2pfn9Mi58iqULy3TFSH8foXkf0He7EDszmN6gZxk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-27+at+3.47.06+PM.png" height="188" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then the pilot, Cooper, gets a better look. And realizes it's not a mountain.<br />
<br />
It's a wave.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tY53qZUUrfTh9WsaXNi9CM5eFoinhzzN6krPJQC2CjcxtvrlxBP2e391PTnPBgENO_mxCq_Fl_2UjZrS6A4em-szOudiLWZAKCXMjk8P6WP1zD-rwcmUkJF-0RASJiQkBSJedC24DVY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-27+at+3.47.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tY53qZUUrfTh9WsaXNi9CM5eFoinhzzN6krPJQC2CjcxtvrlxBP2e391PTnPBgENO_mxCq_Fl_2UjZrS6A4em-szOudiLWZAKCXMjk8P6WP1zD-rwcmUkJF-0RASJiQkBSJedC24DVY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-27+at+3.47.42+PM.png" height="188" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Well, bummer.</i></div>
<br />
Too often in science fiction, the alien worlds don't seem to be anything of the kind; they are, instead, thinly veiled versions of our own home planet. But <i>Interstellar </i>seemed to kick things up a notch, delivering alien worlds that <i>feel </i>alien in their features, geology, and weather.<br />
<br />
This is made all the more ironic by the fact that Nolan was filming in real, natural, outdoor locations (with a bit of CGI thrown in later), but that only adds to the effect of bizarre worlds that are still very physical and real.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>3.) These archetypal characters are truly archetypes</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yYRSkWrw0fyw-_Gl_t5COvoQAtyBi6KyFy7I5QPy0heWmDL17iY7wtgnKd3fqgycgamdlTgjwtLbQJFiF1F1G_t6LoPD-AqoPXtiDHHmpwi2xHFJGFK6LlaPs2rmRhc_30yA_X3Ixm8/s1600/Crew.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yYRSkWrw0fyw-_Gl_t5COvoQAtyBi6KyFy7I5QPy0heWmDL17iY7wtgnKd3fqgycgamdlTgjwtLbQJFiF1F1G_t6LoPD-AqoPXtiDHHmpwi2xHFJGFK6LlaPs2rmRhc_30yA_X3Ixm8/s1600/Crew.png" height="232" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The characters in Christopher Nolan stories are often thrown into extraordinary circumstances -- <a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b29815204/Home?searchId=21475498&recordIndex=2&page=1">navigating the worlds of other people's dreams</a> or <a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b25683020/Home?searchId=21475572&recordIndex=2&page=1">fighting crime behind a rather unusual mask</a>. But despite their otherworldly surroundings, the characters remain relatable Everymen, with recognizable and understandable motivations.<br />
<br />
While the characters of <i>Interstellar </i>are searching for a way to build a future for humanity and save them from a dying planet, they are also motivated by more personal reasons. Cooper is looking to find a way back to his family. So, in her way, is Dr. Brand, the NASA scientist in charge of the expedition. Murph, Cooper's daughter, finds her own way of searching for the father who had to leave her behind to save her.<br />
<br />
Woven into the vastness of space and time is a theme of the timelessness of family, making these characters and their archetypal motivations something relatable and familiar, no matter how weird or wild their surroundings.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>4.) It keeps you guessing</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikizQpZffYZlC4LzZHXkvC86_NYttlYlYBG5-9SgM5WFqITkxbRXrGeZPx5x80ru3tCAT4sSEv9TYgI95oVS6MTSq_3sKLQk-v9Ttgatf0XgHoDejHoiLK-FEO_OKSqJub8lU7a69Er-g/s1600/1d_shelves_f.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikizQpZffYZlC4LzZHXkvC86_NYttlYlYBG5-9SgM5WFqITkxbRXrGeZPx5x80ru3tCAT4sSEv9TYgI95oVS6MTSq_3sKLQk-v9Ttgatf0XgHoDejHoiLK-FEO_OKSqJub8lU7a69Er-g/s1600/1d_shelves_f.png" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In a world of sequels, prequels, and reboots, it's become the truly rare film that has a wholly original story to tell. <a href="http://www.boxofficemojo.com/yearly/chart/?view2=worldwide&yr=2014">Of the top-grossing films of 2014</a>, <i>Interstellar </i>was the only movie in the top ten that was not a sequel or adaptation.<br />
<br />
I spent the entirety of the film utterly unsure of where the story might be going. While it seemed reasonable to think that the good guys would triumph, I hadn't the foggiest idea of what they might do to get there, and how the hints and clues sprinkled throughout the film would lead to a solution. From ticking clocks to alien contact, the story was intriguing, unsettling, and, ultimately, full-circle. But never in a way I saw coming.<br />
<br />
Which leads me to:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>5.) It's "A Wrinkle in Time" for adults</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIxUF6eAu5QiTVeEFsOBFuaiFPeMeO4AuNwAGwsXphYU_mPnP3-2OjLw9BgkJ9eiIA8JI0aFOUr8ZjToq920nN-2R6KsByAUsAoFAtcRzj0BVI8ii0CjVnRW00IQA9deawSIacIsGOtpg/s1600/interstellar-tesseract.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIxUF6eAu5QiTVeEFsOBFuaiFPeMeO4AuNwAGwsXphYU_mPnP3-2OjLw9BgkJ9eiIA8JI0aFOUr8ZjToq920nN-2R6KsByAUsAoFAtcRzj0BVI8ii0CjVnRW00IQA9deawSIacIsGOtpg/s1600/interstellar-tesseract.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Well, to be fair, <a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Union/Search?basicType=Title&lookfor=wrinkle+in+time">Madeleine L'Engle's classic YA novel</a> can be enjoyed by any reader of any age. But the fact remains that I couldn't help but be reminded of <i>A Wrinkle in Time </i>while watching the final act of <i>Interstellar. </i>The film ultimately ties together ideas of space, time, and the way in which love and family can transcend those realms -- which is more or less precisely what L'Engle did in her own sci-fi adventure over fifty years ago.<br />
<br />
There's nothing overtly linking Nolan's space adventure to L'Engle's. But just as <i>A Wrinkle in Time </i>opened my nine-year-old mind to worlds I had never before considered -- while also telling a story about the unbreakable bonds of love and family -- so, too, did <i>Interstellar </i>achieve the same feat. It's a sci-fi adventure film, but it's also a tale that resonates on the most personal of levels -- making it the rare story that broadens the limits of imagination and tells an important truth, all at the same time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>6.) There's a snarky robot</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtx1mmxKPWiuVXHZ1hNV0qVb60jNZoZNZwbtQLqCwcHKkYOKBXysGpDT5mm-1Dm8lMqmUC0bfpaPdSeupBbnGncW2fFzPHGOa72hhqaO5I13VNVgYUzDJZ8SgIxtuWDlFYqGf7UFI9GTc/s1600/tumblr_neuhpt0Cgq1qc31upo2_400.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtx1mmxKPWiuVXHZ1hNV0qVb60jNZoZNZwbtQLqCwcHKkYOKBXysGpDT5mm-1Dm8lMqmUC0bfpaPdSeupBbnGncW2fFzPHGOa72hhqaO5I13VNVgYUzDJZ8SgIxtuWDlFYqGf7UFI9GTc/s1600/tumblr_neuhpt0Cgq1qc31upo2_400.gif" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I could watch this all day.</i></div>
<br />
And then there's TARS -- the sarcastic, snarky, good-natured, and uniquely-designed robot, used by the Endurance crew to help them on their expedition.<br />
<br />
Because what's a sci-fi story without a snarky robot?<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b35471797/Home?searchId=21475236&recordIndex=1&page=1">Request "Interstellar" on DVD from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b35548113/Home?searchId=21475279&recordIndex=2&page=1">Request "Interstellar" on Blu-ray from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b35413657/Home?searchId=21475236&recordIndex=2&page=1">Request "The Science of Interstellar" by Kip Thorne from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b35364555/Home?searchId=21475279&recordIndex=16&page=1">Request "Interstellar: Beyond Time and Space -- Inside Christopher Nolan's Sci-Fi Epic" by Mark Cotta Vaz from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/Record/.b35437613/Home?searchId=21475351&recordIndex=9&page=1">Request the Hans Zimmer soundtrack from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwf2vqPVTFCZPjtnIxIfOCtk4tK1jawXxI87Pgo_VYXYzJTTT-Af_8K4YfKp9bDSqYDj8bMADnHFQ_lRHY4n49WHWgnGOst7Gw6tCtvLs1bIwXGAi6kOqs6cHGsWg1shR7WZyIcOIUHCI/s1600/Hamilton-Khaki-Interstellar-watches-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwf2vqPVTFCZPjtnIxIfOCtk4tK1jawXxI87Pgo_VYXYzJTTT-Af_8K4YfKp9bDSqYDj8bMADnHFQ_lRHY4n49WHWgnGOst7Gw6tCtvLs1bIwXGAi6kOqs6cHGsWg1shR7WZyIcOIUHCI/s1600/Hamilton-Khaki-Interstellar-watches-2.jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-503400458495763462015-03-27T11:27:00.000-04:002015-03-27T11:27:16.588-04:004 Story Endings That Are Better Than The Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe78aFQN06aXMMOuen2QXJhiAmUePgSDcQ7H1RaKgx5dVwKZEKUelnTs2zwmqyozAN18qprsE1v4tHkc9oOhnNHJTxqzTyQi0qdkFht4hV0kdN3Ssmm0mRsUuINr79GFQ9KxcFPILsS2c/s1600/hobbit-3-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe78aFQN06aXMMOuen2QXJhiAmUePgSDcQ7H1RaKgx5dVwKZEKUelnTs2zwmqyozAN18qprsE1v4tHkc9oOhnNHJTxqzTyQi0qdkFht4hV0kdN3Ssmm0mRsUuINr79GFQ9KxcFPILsS2c/s1600/hobbit-3-poster.jpg" height="400" width="268" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
With the final film in Peter Jackson's <i>Hobbit </i>trilogy <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(hobbit%20battle%20of%20the%20five%20armies)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=g&m=h&m=3">just out on DVD</a> -- and <a href="http://www.tolkiensociety.org/society/events/reading-day/">the recent celebration of Tolkien Reading Day</a> -- it got us thinking about story endings. Finding the perfect ending to a story can be a hard nut to crack, especially as many people would happily debate just what it is, exactly, that constitutes a "perfect ending" to their favorite shows and series.<br />
<br />
Still, when a story wraps up on exactly the right note, it's a moment of satisfaction for the book-lover or film buff that has few equals. Read on to see four of our favorite, most powerful endings.<br />
<br />
(Minor spoilers ahead.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Fight Club (the film)</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CKNnCfbWHgWoHflmE1ssGSL00Z9dxv0au9HlG4EnRz4NX-V5pPk8QKdBBAcfNbTffHezw9mP6eDsbVu8-Rhl5rd_gGTaEzjYGDqesOvLy_InLBN6-9FsNxAGggpFlLtEr4R60EBy-Uo/s1600/FightClub_109Pyxurz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_CKNnCfbWHgWoHflmE1ssGSL00Z9dxv0au9HlG4EnRz4NX-V5pPk8QKdBBAcfNbTffHezw9mP6eDsbVu8-Rhl5rd_gGTaEzjYGDqesOvLy_InLBN6-9FsNxAGggpFlLtEr4R60EBy-Uo/s1600/FightClub_109Pyxurz.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>so we can buy stuff we don't need to impress people we don't like."</i></div>
<br />
When <i>Fight Club </i>was first released, I went out of my way to avoid seeing it. A movie about a bunch of guys beating each other up didn't sound like my type of flick, to say the least. But then I was assigned the film as part of a college class syllabus, and I found myself stuck with watching <i>Fight Club </i>whether I wanted to or not.<br />
<br />
There wasn't much to recommend it to my sensibilities, either, as I watched the Narrator (our unnamed main character) have his typical, materialistic, button-down life interrupted by Tyler Durden, a nihilistic anarchist who starts up underground "fight clubs" as a way to connect men back to real meanings in their lives. Of course, when you're convinced that there <i>is </i>no meaning, such a plan is bound to be twisted, and the Narrator is caught up in a plan of increasingly horrible and dangerous consequences.<br />
<br />
That is, until the story's end, when we discover who Tyler Durden really is -- and what our Narrator can do to defeat him. With Tyler's message ultimately rejected and destroyed, our Narrator is free to live a new life with his gal-pal Marla -- "new life" being rather more literal than normal. Tyler's true identity was a sucker-punch of an ending that I never saw coming, and it gave me an appreciation for a film I thought I'd never even watch.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(fight%20club)%20and%20(brad%20pitt%20edward%20norton)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=g&m=h&m=3">Request <i>Fight Club </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Star Trek: The Next Generation (the series)</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Uev3rwS_qSssSvMhJaJTJxYquq22vA2YXKRBTQtAV1nEfwitZsTxmeOVns616vfbBLCXj3Ta7Gl5gHeVom4b7g0lskEBil7XoFhohHGic56ThiPFbpD-JmtgSvzV9MlpP9D3VVx_plg/s1600/e9978b9ad04ed34aeb16d86fc5467b2d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Uev3rwS_qSssSvMhJaJTJxYquq22vA2YXKRBTQtAV1nEfwitZsTxmeOVns616vfbBLCXj3Ta7Gl5gHeVom4b7g0lskEBil7XoFhohHGic56ThiPFbpD-JmtgSvzV9MlpP9D3VVx_plg/s1600/e9978b9ad04ed34aeb16d86fc5467b2d.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"That is the exploration that awaits you. Not mapping stars and </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>studying nebulae, </i><i>but charting the unknown possibilities of existence."</i></div>
<br />
The last two seasons of <i>Star Trek: The Next Generation </i>rarely reached the heights of excellent storytelling as seen in earlier episodes. But then came "All Good Things …," the two-parter series finale, in which Captain Picard is ordered to take the <i>Enterprise </i>to investigate an unusual spacial anomaly. Unfortunately, his orders are complicated when he abruptly finds himself time-jumping six years into the past (when the <i>Enterprise </i>was just about to undertake its first voyage) -- and some 25 years in the future, when he's retired and his crew has gone their separate ways. Splintered between three timelines, things look even worse for Picard with the return of Q, an all-powerful alien adversary who delights in picking on Picard whenever possible.<br />
<br />
But this time, Q's motives seem to be about more than making things entertainingly difficult. In fact, Q is insisting that Picard is on the verge of making a decision that will wipe out all of humanity -- leaving Picard struggling to solve the puzzle across three different timelines before it's too late. What makes this episode so incredible, for me, is that the solution is unlocked for Picard in the same instant it's unlocked for the audience -- and it's a mind-blowing answer that could only work within the limitless bounds of the sci-fi genre.<br />
<br />
It's worth mentioning that I'm not entirely alone in my assessment as to the power of this story. The two-parter earned the 1995 Hugo Award (given annually for the best science fiction and fantasy works and achievements of the previous year) for Best Dramatic Presentation.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/Xt:(star+trek+the+next+generation+season+7)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=g&m=h&m=3/Xt:(star+trek+the+next+generation+season+7)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=g&m=h&m=3&SUBKEY=t%3A(star+trek+the+next+generation+season+7)/1%2C7%2C7%2CB/frameset&FF=Xt:(star+trek+the+next+generation+season+7)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=g&m=h&m=3&2%2C2%2C">Request Season 7 of <i>Star Trek: The Next Generation </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- The Graduate (the film)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjf4RXuSstzlycoAnUqsTQhYViHAP7Xb2qlkIKKhbPk_o45MPBU0h6G7JpcqUX2FKz4J-dzOdYUV6DTQsrJ6vJv_KiBF-hb5mj8sTlXg21zAO6dUuml6YaxZgGyxDtrGemZJtVyj5ty3U/s1600/graduate-plastics.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjf4RXuSstzlycoAnUqsTQhYViHAP7Xb2qlkIKKhbPk_o45MPBU0h6G7JpcqUX2FKz4J-dzOdYUV6DTQsrJ6vJv_KiBF-hb5mj8sTlXg21zAO6dUuml6YaxZgGyxDtrGemZJtVyj5ty3U/s1600/graduate-plastics.png" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"One word: plastics."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"How exactly do you mean 'plastics,' sir?"</i></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
"Mrs. Robinson, are you trying to seduce me?" It's the most famous line of the classic 1967 film, but <i>The Graduate </i>is about so much more than a recent college grad falling under the spell of an older woman. Benjamin Braddock has spent the last four years slaving away to earn his college degree, but now that he's got it, he's at a loss to find his next step. Utterly confused as to what he ought to try next or what he wants to do with his life, he drifts without purpose -- ultimately finding himself in the arms of Mrs. Robinson, the wife of his father's law partner.<br />
<br />
As Benjamin continues to drift listlessly, his parents pressure him to ask out Elaine, the Robinsons' daughter. Ben does what he can to get out of it, but eventually finds himself all but forced to take Elaine out for the evening. Initially determined to be as terrible to her as possible (and, therefore, end any chances of a second date), Ben slowly begins to realize he actually likes her. Here, at last, is a person with whom he can be wholly himself.<br />
<br />
Elaine feels the same -- at least until she finds out that Ben has been romantically involved with her own mother. Horrified, Elaine dumps Ben immediately, leaving Ben determined to reunite with Elaine -- a future with her being the only future he can see for himself.<br />
<br />
The last third of the movie strikes many fans as romantic (or stalker-lite, depending on your perspective), as Ben tracks down Elaine before he loses her forever. But while the film has a nominally happy ending, the last shot suggests that these new adults are still as uncertain about their future as ever -- which is precisely the feeling that most new graduates can relate to best.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(the%20graduate)%20and%20(dustin%20hoffman)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=g&m=h&m=3">Request <i>The Graduate </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Secret Window, Secret Garden (the book)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydcmMUplevxZHsSsx6SrkbmvZ9qS5CVlfwsuD_LhzHg8DO3Z90ob7PrSKuq3ThXSCsXNsIWtcbyyx3Sd27RF_L2YAy6xbzxQ8544fY5G-SE9kdTfQ4MmjewBVq3VoyzcKMEISzSe6wJc/s1600/81Y+BVvg6+L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydcmMUplevxZHsSsx6SrkbmvZ9qS5CVlfwsuD_LhzHg8DO3Z90ob7PrSKuq3ThXSCsXNsIWtcbyyx3Sd27RF_L2YAy6xbzxQ8544fY5G-SE9kdTfQ4MmjewBVq3VoyzcKMEISzSe6wJc/s1600/81Y+BVvg6+L.jpg" height="320" width="277" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"You know, the only thing that matters is the ending. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>It's the most important </i><i>part </i><i>of the story, the ending."</i></div>
<br />
When writer Mort Rainey retreats to his summer home on Tashmore Lake, he's just trying to get a little peace of mind (and some fresh writing inspiration) in the aftermath of a messy divorce. So when John Shooter shows up on Mort's doorstep and accuses him of plagiarizing one of Shooter's stories, Mort finds himself with one too many problems to handle.<br />
<br />
At least the fix to Shooter's accusation seems easy enough. All Mort has to do is prove he committed no such plagiarism. But when Shooter's insanity starts escalating, the stakes grow increasingly personal -- and Mort suddenly discovers there's no easy way out after all. Especially when Mort discovers that Shooter is not at all who he claimed to be.<br />
<br />
I discovered this story on audiobook, and listened to the rip-roaring, nail-biting ending while driving home alone at night in the middle of a deserted country road. Rarely have I had a more terrifying -- or pleasing -- horror story experience. Don't miss it!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(secret%20window%20secret%20garden)%20and%20a:(king%20stephen)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=a&m=q&m=i&m=n&m=u">Request <i>Secret Window, Secret Garden </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLA3iZruZnyUNvsAoZpAMcv4FiHQGtz7dHo6SIQyKgtwJ_le7AIREvgxyA3l7gQ-D47MiNETHe1AuLTRvw8jMu4Ft_jJt2x6JwWraW1R93dczHXTGP35-hRSl3CCm_4FN2s22r588uqw0/s1600/sherlock-holmes-sherlock-holmes-2009-film-31899942-1920-1080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLA3iZruZnyUNvsAoZpAMcv4FiHQGtz7dHo6SIQyKgtwJ_le7AIREvgxyA3l7gQ-D47MiNETHe1AuLTRvw8jMu4Ft_jJt2x6JwWraW1R93dczHXTGP35-hRSl3CCm_4FN2s22r588uqw0/s1600/sherlock-holmes-sherlock-holmes-2009-film-31899942-1920-1080.jpg" height="189" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-63375227627889168062015-03-24T19:06:00.002-04:002015-03-24T19:06:14.061-04:005 Favorite Moments on Downton Abbey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTZJ4SnxTO57xNISpxVRCWP3kQCFnBuIBtctSBXb3-k5N1NwRMj08sHKymr8L0G6_w1xfaKFpN0lfM_4wA8OU835d0WoBWqU82JTzpSPLbbcMJEKbNtAIFY54p3ZDFWPqksJVnd_Xu5gP/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-17+at+7.11.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTZJ4SnxTO57xNISpxVRCWP3kQCFnBuIBtctSBXb3-k5N1NwRMj08sHKymr8L0G6_w1xfaKFpN0lfM_4wA8OU835d0WoBWqU82JTzpSPLbbcMJEKbNtAIFY54p3ZDFWPqksJVnd_Xu5gP/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-17+at+7.11.34+PM.png" height="320" width="232" /></a></div>
<br />
Once again it's that sad time of year where one season of <i>Downton Abbey</i> has finished and now we must wait nine more months to see the next season of <i>Downton Abbey</i>. And to top it off, there are rumors that season six may mark the end of this wonderful show. I know that it must come to an end one day, but I sure hope it's still a few years away.<br />
<br />
While there are always lots of simultaneous story lines in <i>Downton Abbey</i>, here are a few of my favorite moments.<br />
<br />
But beware, there are <b>SPOILERS</b> ahead!<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1) Don't go Tom!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcP8H50nzy82T-ypvCWfeqnychkVifEBcgpfFPUf5FlgNJU86a6KjlLYBDerlRHomWG8Qfsu5RJbGtiuuNWEnMyv6qnLJAb_f1LZXgz7tyvOOc17k41uHer3OPFrMqVco7VwaRqqE-mbJ/s1600/downton-abbey-season-5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcP8H50nzy82T-ypvCWfeqnychkVifEBcgpfFPUf5FlgNJU86a6KjlLYBDerlRHomWG8Qfsu5RJbGtiuuNWEnMyv6qnLJAb_f1LZXgz7tyvOOc17k41uHer3OPFrMqVco7VwaRqqE-mbJ/s1600/downton-abbey-season-5-1.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tom Branson has come along way since his days as the chauffeur for the Crawley family. He is now a valuable member of the family whose opinion is often sought by Lord Grantham. Who would have thought that just a few seasons ago? Tom's late wife, Sybil, was always my favorite character on the show and when they killed her off during childbirth, I was crushed. Now that Tom is a single father he is trying to determine the best future for him and his daughter. Will that mean moving to America? I for one, sure hope he doesn't leave. After his brief romance with Miss Bunting, a local school teacher, some of the socialist firebrand that we saw in the first season was back. It was good to see that side of him again. I'd hate to see him go now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>2 ) Lady Edith's secret revealed</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5rKyyBGIbCP-mCuUqGEUNoMV46L3u2Klvsn3v9jk6bp2pvlZ7Dd-8zunCTmiurMO-jS8JRraW8VZyiBTdv0rP6KqZIZfLk2XrPaS8KvWs3KkUc9D3y6MljP-RUVf7poIIVFiPMSh8VN3/s1600/lady-edith-marigold-downton-abbey-season-5-episode-6-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5rKyyBGIbCP-mCuUqGEUNoMV46L3u2Klvsn3v9jk6bp2pvlZ7Dd-8zunCTmiurMO-jS8JRraW8VZyiBTdv0rP6KqZIZfLk2XrPaS8KvWs3KkUc9D3y6MljP-RUVf7poIIVFiPMSh8VN3/s1600/lady-edith-marigold-downton-abbey-season-5-episode-6-2.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As usual, there weren't too many episodes where I did not utter the phrase "poor Edith" while watching <i>Downton Abbey</i>. In season five we are sure that Edith will finally have some happiness to only have her love, Michael Gregson, disappear in pre-world war II Germany. And to top it off, she discovers that she is pregnant. While she still struggles with feeling like the outcast in her family, she now realizes that she has something to fight for - her daughter Marigold. This being 1920s England, she can't acknowledge the child as her own, but now most of her family knows the secret and her daughter will now be a part of her life. And with the death of Michael, she has inherited his publishing business, which will make her an even more independent woman. So maybe next season I won't have to utter "poor Edith" anymore!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>3) Lady Violet's scandalous past</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oREFK9caWELFCBtHH59sYed3e8uMl7MF3lU2LfPK5e6T3q_ht3n3sYHVFe6u0OgHrHWPNGdSBUnM6FLSJpU7dRhJgJKObFAAWqQiZ8TsEGoQ1mfclEGbfcUId3EsL7Clmnc-OpXE1mQY/s1600/BN-GM620_downto_G_20150118215509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oREFK9caWELFCBtHH59sYed3e8uMl7MF3lU2LfPK5e6T3q_ht3n3sYHVFe6u0OgHrHWPNGdSBUnM6FLSJpU7dRhJgJKObFAAWqQiZ8TsEGoQ1mfclEGbfcUId3EsL7Clmnc-OpXE1mQY/s1600/BN-GM620_downto_G_20150118215509.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Who would have thought that the Dowager Countess would have such a scandalous past? The discovery that she almost left her husband, the current Lord Grantham's father, for a married Russian prince when her children were very young was quite a surprise. Lady Violet is such a stickler for propriety, that her affair of the heart came out of left field for me. However, I did find it refreshing to see her as more than just the sour old granny with her wicked one-liners. This season we also got to see Violet's fear of losing Isobel Crawley as a companion and friend, when Isobel contemplates accepting Lord Merton's marriage proposal. After their many years of clashing ideas, it was nice to see that there is genuine affection between the two.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>4) Daisy's continuing education</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Tuu7cHsbfhsESayeXsm4oY9dqKOy_RG-1R6gU7EMMy-5iOOuOQLkyrAiBFc_I2P6SnRsRD1nFXoQu_ljW-iKlWwLwi1OU-IcXUu7BsGmOzfLPKhiSaiDzv81IDovkhkmRR2NdmPmgg1N/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-17+at+7.37.45+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Tuu7cHsbfhsESayeXsm4oY9dqKOy_RG-1R6gU7EMMy-5iOOuOQLkyrAiBFc_I2P6SnRsRD1nFXoQu_ljW-iKlWwLwi1OU-IcXUu7BsGmOzfLPKhiSaiDzv81IDovkhkmRR2NdmPmgg1N/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-17+at+7.37.45+PM.png" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've slowly seen cook's assistant Daisy, grow and mature over the years, but this year really put her on a path of personal growth. Daisy always showed a capacity for learning and for questioning the way things worked, but after meeting Miss Bunting she sees that with education her future can be whatever she makes of it. She doesn't have to work in the kitchen the rest of her life. Daisy has always been the voice of reason and now that she is learning more about the world, she is learning even more about herself. I can't wait to see where this takes her!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>5) Mr. Carson's marriage proposal!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRb-np2nTEmRRFWCgW_8IYYsW8zwxp5Dcm-VLN8R-qQ0d_ebinIpFPdzZ9leKuRAtPLgwLM17HVKghSm1BxFSxrbEdk0snuYBh52d4SBnytnGkpXfP2rSirQvmUEgCmiFnHMWeXUWjvKF/s1600/carson-hughes-will-they-icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRb-np2nTEmRRFWCgW_8IYYsW8zwxp5Dcm-VLN8R-qQ0d_ebinIpFPdzZ9leKuRAtPLgwLM17HVKghSm1BxFSxrbEdk0snuYBh52d4SBnytnGkpXfP2rSirQvmUEgCmiFnHMWeXUWjvKF/s1600/carson-hughes-will-they-icon.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After last season ending with Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes holding hands while navigating the waves at the seaside I was hoping for a romantic storyline for these two great characters. But as season five progressed I wasn't so sure if anything would transpire. I should have known better. This is Mr. Carson we are talking about here! Everything has to happen in a proper time and place for him. I should have also seen it coming when Carson suggested to Mrs. Hughes that they look into buying a small house that they could run as a bed and breakfast when they retire, but I admit, that kind of slipped by me. When Mrs. Hughes admits that she has no money to invest because of taking care of her invalid sister, Mr. Carson shows his true colors by admitting that he bought a house in both of their names admitting his feelings for her in this gesture. I think they are a sweet couple and it's lovely to see people of a "certain age" still getting to experience love and romance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Season six can not come fast enough for me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tdownton+abbey/tdownton+abbey/1%2C23%2C52%2CB/limit" target="_blank">Request any season of Downton Abbey from the Catalog here.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b><br /></b>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-39708465404895890722015-03-19T10:03:00.000-04:002015-03-19T10:03:05.778-04:00A TOAST TO SIR TERRY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAnLFn6Cj6VPa2usRcJy4QMBPDUeyQrZ0mcxHFprhN0NOVfxgQnACApSjkJaqVuti3zClrT8E1RNSB7b2efhlA-O_wPCFkmGEYtoJAdoKtO25MH9u2pActWMjDa-cfT-KHXJlSh8D-4k/s1600/afp-538770508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAnLFn6Cj6VPa2usRcJy4QMBPDUeyQrZ0mcxHFprhN0NOVfxgQnACApSjkJaqVuti3zClrT8E1RNSB7b2efhlA-O_wPCFkmGEYtoJAdoKtO25MH9u2pActWMjDa-cfT-KHXJlSh8D-4k/s1600/afp-538770508.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
British fantasy author Sir Terry Pratchett passed away last week at the age of 66. He was best known and loved for his Discworld series, which started life as a satirical spoof of the fantasy genre but went on to become a work of rich worldbuilding and unique storytelling in its own right. Consisting of over 40 books, the novels were clever, captivating, fresh, poignant -- and always, always funny.<br />
<br />
As a massive fantasy fan, the Discworld books were breaths of fresh air to me in my high school and college days. They were fantasy novels that had something new, fascinating, and hilarious to say. It's been years since I've picked up a Discworld novel, but I still remember my fondness for the world and characters that Sir Terry created.<br />
<br />
Here are a few of my favorites:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tcolor+of+magic/tcolor+of+magic/1%2C3%2C5%2CB/frameset&FF=tcolor+of+magic+a+discworld+novel&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">The Color of Magic</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PtYycLv2W-4PEmclTZuLEups23c9377x2tQGYtXRkOBS6qMFvueg9YcHRjbmFQIKjFjfBuoVXrKsc3g9IkBDdX0dqXM3XJTqu_W551t3F7al99mcVlHexgZ3XBcNBKSzX9VCWxvatP0/s1600/Terry-Pratchett-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PtYycLv2W-4PEmclTZuLEups23c9377x2tQGYtXRkOBS6qMFvueg9YcHRjbmFQIKjFjfBuoVXrKsc3g9IkBDdX0dqXM3XJTqu_W551t3F7al99mcVlHexgZ3XBcNBKSzX9VCWxvatP0/s1600/Terry-Pratchett-01.jpg" height="200" width="124" /></a></div>
<br />
Pratchett fans will often recommend that newcomers not pick up <i>The Color of Magic, </i>the first book in the Discworld series.<i> </i>Indeed, the novel has a much different flavor from future installments in the series, serving as more of a straight-up satire of the fantasy genre than a solid, standalone fantasy tale. Still, if, like me, you're well-versed in the tropes of epic fantasy, this is the satire for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpyramids/tpyramids/1%2C29%2C77%2CB/frameset&FF=tpyramids+a+novel+of+discworld&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">Pyramids</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeX-gvNuJ8R9VwXP0ThB5xLqx2W4HMS2Xm54pbQgjU_UEPptO4NjOd93CbrC78MOv5gLAkVd66Xz24sw7aFcCowIS_qAcMiSp83YDWpHBVTz9hRWJcpcVCNFvugbk51YBjh8iYg1VR5w/s1600/64217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeX-gvNuJ8R9VwXP0ThB5xLqx2W4HMS2Xm54pbQgjU_UEPptO4NjOd93CbrC78MOv5gLAkVd66Xz24sw7aFcCowIS_qAcMiSp83YDWpHBVTz9hRWJcpcVCNFvugbk51YBjh8iYg1VR5w/s1600/64217.jpg" height="200" width="121" /></a></div>
<br />
By this, the seventh novel in Pratchett's series, the Discworld had become a unique fantasy realm in its own right. Pratchett still had fun shaking up his stories by drawing on a variety of tropes and influences, however, and here we get a story heavily influenced by Ancient Egyptian culture (and, to a lesser extent, the fairy tales of the <i>Arabian Nights</i>). Teppic is the young prince of Djelibeybi (sound it out, you <i>Doctor Who </i>fans) who has spent the last few years being educated … by the Assassins Guild. When he returns home to reclaim his throne, complications, as can be expected, ensue -- particularly involving the local pyramids, which are magically constructed to control the flow of Time itself.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Maskerade&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tcolor+of+magic">Maskerade</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPfE-WmTAWhbsIDvtrijl4lRxD3KDHgA6F07FoNZX_LUTp1mgEQoMhaWk3lAqdKmlZHvZav1h0nF7q4Lidzp5tE15YG2P2hTl718hT_-lgLF74sjSK62zV_eRh7u3DLUrBdyQWTa_ogI/s1600/maskerade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPfE-WmTAWhbsIDvtrijl4lRxD3KDHgA6F07FoNZX_LUTp1mgEQoMhaWk3lAqdKmlZHvZav1h0nF7q4Lidzp5tE15YG2P2hTl718hT_-lgLF74sjSK62zV_eRh7u3DLUrBdyQWTa_ogI/s1600/maskerade.jpg" height="200" width="124" /></a></div>
<br />
This eighteenth entry in the series features the Witches -- Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg -- and newcomer Agnes Nitt, who they hope to make their coven's new protege. But Agnes is off in the town of Lancre for a job at the local Opera House, and promptly finds herself in the middle of a story not so unlike <i>The Phantom of the Opera ... </i>(This one is extra-delightful if you're familiar with that musical; watch especially for Pratchett's take on Christine, who ends all of her sentences with double exclamation points.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tmonstrous+regiment/tmonstrous+regiment/1%2C6%2C11%2CB/exact&FF=tmonstrous+regiment+a+novel+of+discworld&1%2C2%2C/indexsort=-">Monstrous Regiment</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBa17wkdzhYASdGSdXwsAgG_1gX3zWxwA56bDG4HqxijdB2sPImXOBaePciMv5V4_8aSjkdW9YTFXcR-f_eAlTPEtAtOhyphenhyphen7c-ZMWN2EFg6Rse5k3z_I4ShH_26xu_8HqN90tpvXfr5ebA/s1600/2563329-monstrous-regiment-covers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBa17wkdzhYASdGSdXwsAgG_1gX3zWxwA56bDG4HqxijdB2sPImXOBaePciMv5V4_8aSjkdW9YTFXcR-f_eAlTPEtAtOhyphenhyphen7c-ZMWN2EFg6Rse5k3z_I4ShH_26xu_8HqN90tpvXfr5ebA/s1600/2563329-monstrous-regiment-covers.jpg" height="200" width="138" /></a></div>
<br />
Pratchett excelled in writing complex, relatable female characters. Here we're introduced to Polly Perks, who disguises herself as a man and enlists as a soldier to track down her brother (without him, she'll lose all claim on the family business). Luckily for Polly, she's fully accepted by her fellow soldiers -- but it turns out she's not the only one with a secret to hide.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S176/?searchtype=t&searcharg=last+hero+a+discworld&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tlast+hero">The Last Hero: A Discworld Fable</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCpFIlQGjrlhbKwS3iF1YZpprklRn30LchiBLo4MCz6853LGZEdcaEwFdYFMNnulCBoZzYrbcY3tMCeKpR8gN8cxFadtVQSgBy7oOQInUZjsQrlsiYSSVeLfRkqefDwn_8k0Kb23wdCk/s1600/34503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCpFIlQGjrlhbKwS3iF1YZpprklRn30LchiBLo4MCz6853LGZEdcaEwFdYFMNnulCBoZzYrbcY3tMCeKpR8gN8cxFadtVQSgBy7oOQInUZjsQrlsiYSSVeLfRkqefDwn_8k0Kb23wdCk/s1600/34503.jpg" height="200" width="166" /></a></div>
<br />
Lavishly, beautifully illustrated by Paul Kidby, this Discworld novella stars my favorite character of the series. Rincewind is a wizard (well, actually a "WIZZARD," if his hat is anything to go by). He only knows one spell, and seems to spend the majority of his time running away from all the various people, things, and circumstances that are constantly conspiring to kill him. Reluctantly teaming up with Leonard of Quirm and Captain Carrot Ironfoundersson, Rincewind finds himself on a mission to stop a hoard of elderly barbarians from killing the gods themselves.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tgood+omens+the+nice/tgood+omens+the+nice/1%2C2%2C5%2CB/exact&FF=tgood+omens+the+nice+and+accurate+prophecies+of+agnes+nutter+witch&1%2C4%2C/indexsort=-">Good Omens</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUj9_RfPPztTZq4TTgjqQ96DJ35d_4uiM8xEFXHYjutfTE1k23GwOrshXFenHWvpVSV5mrd9BnXqZ9NuxsXuvkfgzxwJ7hUPjvXw_zE_RMwvT6hkxPbDNiFaIsPkSMRaWctKdgdQKyMmw/s1600/good-omens-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUj9_RfPPztTZq4TTgjqQ96DJ35d_4uiM8xEFXHYjutfTE1k23GwOrshXFenHWvpVSV5mrd9BnXqZ9NuxsXuvkfgzxwJ7hUPjvXw_zE_RMwvT6hkxPbDNiFaIsPkSMRaWctKdgdQKyMmw/s1600/good-omens-2.jpg" height="200" width="130" /></a></div>
<br />
The Apocalypse. Four Horsemen on motorcycles. A misplaced Antichrist (who is kind of fond of the human race). A book of prophecy. An angel and a demon who actually get along. All co-written with Neil Gaiman. It's not Discworld, but it's my favorite Pratchett novel all the same. Don't miss it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tinteresting+times/tinteresting+times/1%2C3%2C4%2CB/exact&FF=tinteresting+times+a+novel+of+discworld&1%2C2%2C/indexsort=-">Interesting Times</a></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBtbhyT-NlP-9_7JJxvZCsXP1BzvNuGzsT-QpyaNZzl5fEXeVWadTBayK2B3a5hkJ_cLkxn9C_1drqrnbTt134mQrY2cjHOknd9nqBmA0UKzVR16HlNSFoK7Fa9S4RWFvwBdb3ZKeyWnE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-18+at+2.38.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBtbhyT-NlP-9_7JJxvZCsXP1BzvNuGzsT-QpyaNZzl5fEXeVWadTBayK2B3a5hkJ_cLkxn9C_1drqrnbTt134mQrY2cjHOknd9nqBmA0UKzVR16HlNSFoK7Fa9S4RWFvwBdb3ZKeyWnE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-18+at+2.38.09+PM.png" height="320" width="198" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
… well. Maybe <i>Good Omens </i>is my second-favorite Pratchett read. This story probably takes the true top spot, as we follow Rincewind the Wizzard as he encounters Cohen the Barbarian, meets up with an old tourist friend, and gets involved in a rebellion against an empire being controlled by a villainous Grand Vizier (aren't they always villainous?). He's only on his unlikely mission because he's determined to earn back his title as a right and proper Wizard -- but with Fate and Luck literally playing a game for the rebellion's outcome, Rincewind's got his work cut out for him.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>There is a curse. They say:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"May You Live In Interesting Times."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwl-uMupUR7-Z587pFov0PJhYpLiBIPFjyCdgBVozrDuz4t8GGtK4cLBbH0FTMGmWlqxu4Qoxug_Bc1YdDHfJ2-YixJdQ43NYYXiiLUgEVAhqGG3eiMPhFEnzKuJV0t4IUxlOaQ1zqK4/s1600/interesting-times.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwl-uMupUR7-Z587pFov0PJhYpLiBIPFjyCdgBVozrDuz4t8GGtK4cLBbH0FTMGmWlqxu4Qoxug_Bc1YdDHfJ2-YixJdQ43NYYXiiLUgEVAhqGG3eiMPhFEnzKuJV0t4IUxlOaQ1zqK4/s1600/interesting-times.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=a&searcharg=pratchett+terry&HISTORY=&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search">Browse the works of Terry Pratchett from the Catalog</a></b><br />
<br />
- ARTICLE: <a href="http://www.tor.com/blogs/2013/04/terry-pratchetts-discworld-might-be-the-highest-form-of-literature-on-the-planet">Terry Pratchett's Discworld Might Be the Highest Form of Literature on the Planet</a><br />
<br />
- ARTICLE: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/sep/24/terry-pratchett-angry-not-jolly-neil-gaiman">Neil Gaiman on Terry Pratchett</a><br />
<br />
- ARTICLE: <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/11469176/Terry-Pratchett-50-best-quotes.html">50 Terry Pratchett quotes</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-76364460508313860112015-03-17T21:19:00.000-04:002015-03-17T21:19:21.175-04:00Staff Recommendation #40: Psych<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
On the surface, comedy and murder mysteries are not two genres that seem tailor-made to compliment one another. But there's something about combining the serious with the silly that can make for fantastic storytelling, and if you want a prime example of that concept in action, look no further than the USA series <i>Psych.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdsXXt0fLm_JpGHkxcuSxdO4wObfNicuBRGfR_TFGaF-wqsIkogTiqfxlilah3KNCNbpGe-rBMO7d5dp1yFZPCQZD4U7G8MRYOmjyjwHSZvNgAxFzp8kYjIY2Wu3lCtj2aFzOJ3UKfIA/s1600/Psych.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdsXXt0fLm_JpGHkxcuSxdO4wObfNicuBRGfR_TFGaF-wqsIkogTiqfxlilah3KNCNbpGe-rBMO7d5dp1yFZPCQZD4U7G8MRYOmjyjwHSZvNgAxFzp8kYjIY2Wu3lCtj2aFzOJ3UKfIA/s1600/Psych.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The show<i> </i>tells the story of Shawn Spencer, a guy whose freewheeling ways chafe against the rigorous lessons drilled in him by his father, a Santa Barbara police detective. Despite his determination to avoid following in his dad's footsteps, Shawn can't keep from using his own well-honed powers of observation to call in tips to the police for various unsolvable crimes. But when his astute observations seem a little too on the nose, Shawn finds himself a suspect in the very case he was trying to help solve. Panicking, Shawn blurts out the first thing he thinks of: he knows all these details because he's psychic.<br />
<br />
It says something about the character that the police find it easier to believe that Shawn's psychic than to credit this irresponsible trickster with a natural affinity for crime solving. But then, that seems to suit Shawn just fine, as he finagles his way into becoming an official consultant to the Santa Barbara Police Department while also opening his own private psychic detective agency.<br />
<br />
Roped in for the ride are Gus, his lifelong best pal who is reluctant (at least at first) to get involved in such shenanigans; and Shawn's dad, now retired, who is none too amused at his son's new profession. But Shawn needs all the help he can get to keep the truth from being discovered by Detectives Carlton Lassiter (who can't stand Shawn from the moment they meet) and Juliet O'Hara (who seems a little more inclined to give Shawn the benefit of the doubt). Luckily for Shawn, his sense of humor is as well-developed as his powers of observation, both being important skill sets when you're a fake psychic -- and a real detective.<br />
<br />
The show ran eight seasons, making it a daunting task to know precisely where to begin. So if you'd like to start with a sampling, allow me to recommend a few of my favorite episodes:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaGNjJR-XblNpDBLEEFpgh_O9ng74ziAkjRMt4u0qC3iyt5URKlKQS9RGEUBwQDqSCliRJ2ynCzC13emo0XUX37S0_oX-EJWLDCQK5YapqFkHJipkplxEUultTDY37Fp67sVWKT9Cy54/s1600/172756.37055806_1000X1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaGNjJR-XblNpDBLEEFpgh_O9ng74ziAkjRMt4u0qC3iyt5URKlKQS9RGEUBwQDqSCliRJ2ynCzC13emo0XUX37S0_oX-EJWLDCQK5YapqFkHJipkplxEUultTDY37Fp67sVWKT9Cy54/s1600/172756.37055806_1000X1000.jpg" height="320" width="264" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+third+season+fake+psychic+real+detectives&1%2C1%2C">- Tuesday the 17th (Season 3)</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZ9zFcMMQ-3W6_1TI0McNAcUVphD0xttqTxvHDeSIbL69Za2dWuiix0Qf508IEC-gnXsYEJ18piR7kUkyRHmNXyTStPfNrQ7BYTmPd6yrjwr2W4bbPFTEvgBiy8XWglBpvROm6I-MA-s/s1600/BUEW57DIgAAA8OE.jpg-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZ9zFcMMQ-3W6_1TI0McNAcUVphD0xttqTxvHDeSIbL69Za2dWuiix0Qf508IEC-gnXsYEJ18piR7kUkyRHmNXyTStPfNrQ7BYTmPd6yrjwr2W4bbPFTEvgBiy8XWglBpvROm6I-MA-s/s1600/BUEW57DIgAAA8OE.jpg-large.jpeg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
By the show's second episode, <i>Psych </i>had fun setting their mysteries in quirky places (a Civil War reenactment, a reality show set, and a comic book convention, to name but a few). But by Season Three, the show began to push the creative envelope, changing up not just the settings of the story, but the genre of the episodes themselves.<br />
<br />
<i>Tuesday the 17th </i>is arguably the first episode where <i>Psych </i>blends its humorous procedural roots with another genre entirely -- in this case, horror movies. Shawn and Gus are called in to find a missing camp counselor at a closed summer camp, only to find themselves being stalked by a psychotic killer (in proper <i>Friday the 13th </i>fashion). The episode retains its signature humor as it plays and twists the tropes of the horror/slasher genre, which sets the stage for a recurrence of genre-bending episodes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+fourth+season&1%2C1%2C">- Extradition: British Columbia (Season 4)</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDgAQ5DQskV8drgM_hwUuK_wQASbP5XT3vP1fO3VRHXNi2zHlPtjusrfBukjTbgT5mWmCBzTUIkh36KiUsH4q730vTpqlxox5z-k2_Bq5bUA-lMW1MqlEGj4iSPUp4JwGKI7KGEnaO5Q/s1600/psych_511_ExtraditionII+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDgAQ5DQskV8drgM_hwUuK_wQASbP5XT3vP1fO3VRHXNi2zHlPtjusrfBukjTbgT5mWmCBzTUIkh36KiUsH4q730vTpqlxox5z-k2_Bq5bUA-lMW1MqlEGj4iSPUp4JwGKI7KGEnaO5Q/s1600/psych_511_ExtraditionII+copy.jpg" height="220" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
To make a mystery story work, you need a great detective -- but you also need a great villain. This episode introduces one of my favorites: Pierre Desperaux, an international art thief (played with great mischief and humor by Cary Elwes). Being a thief, rather than a murderer, Desperaux's more trickster than bad guy, and Shawn and Gus must decide exactly how far they can trust such a man. That is, when they're not working themselves out of the trouble that Desperaux continually manages to get them into.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+fifth+season&1%2C1%2C">- Dual Spires (Season 5)</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgWNZ8sw5n6o7opKE5OSY51NjoagWzIpxYsAMY6I8VSqtSl-mR-Mdy0FyT1ci0FnTaHQgIL3UkYMAXXMEcXx5eLwIvvkhOFZleYPuoLIxWlS-TreMq3pSHgoAhWWUxhrgTNC9K7OntPM/s1600/psych-dual-spires-twin-peaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgWNZ8sw5n6o7opKE5OSY51NjoagWzIpxYsAMY6I8VSqtSl-mR-Mdy0FyT1ci0FnTaHQgIL3UkYMAXXMEcXx5eLwIvvkhOFZleYPuoLIxWlS-TreMq3pSHgoAhWWUxhrgTNC9K7OntPM/s1600/psych-dual-spires-twin-peaks.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Series star James Roday (who also wrote a fair few episodes of the show) is a huge fan of <i>Twin Peaks </i>and was the one to pitch the idea of a <i>Psych</i>ified version of that show. The result was "Dual Spires," an episode which pays faithful homage to the David Lynch series while still telling an entertaining story in its own right.<br />
<br />
Shawn and Gus travel to Duel Spires after receiving a mysterious email invitation to a local festival, only to find themselves trying to solve the mystery of "Who Killed Paula Merral?" ("Paula Marral" being an anagram of "Laura Palmer," of course.) The episode included seven of <i>Twin Peaks' </i>original cast members, including Ray Wise (Leland Palmer), Lenny Von Dohlen (Harold Smith), Sherilyn Fenn (Audrey Horne), and Laura Palmer herself -- Sheryl Lee.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+seventh+season&1%2C1%2C">- Right Turn or Left for Dead (Season 7)</a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5FkA72_etdk0bGbAMcPetl6aXtCw13LPuL_K-amEji_5YlDgPr3ISXtuF9E1vMmT4fuFcLD6OvPzTz2aj6hALEaN6EjkUMy4ZAbb6nw8U2ScmhZKUDkfvcW4UPd97kMgoL764jxbpL34/s1600/1009+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5FkA72_etdk0bGbAMcPetl6aXtCw13LPuL_K-amEji_5YlDgPr3ISXtuF9E1vMmT4fuFcLD6OvPzTz2aj6hALEaN6EjkUMy4ZAbb6nw8U2ScmhZKUDkfvcW4UPd97kMgoL764jxbpL34/s1600/1009+copy.jpg" height="264" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A long-running theme of the show was Shawn's ongoing struggle to decide whether or not he should (or could) come clean about his decidedly un-psychic abilities. When the fallout finally hits, things go … rather poorly.<br />
<br />
I consistently enjoyed watching the show expand its storytelling techniques the longer it was on the air, but I was particularly impressed with this Season 7 episode, which employed a storytelling tactic rarely seen outside the realms of science fiction: a splintered timeline. As Shawn grapples with the sudden fallout of his exposed secret, an unexpected taxi ride leads him to discover a badly-injured woman by the side of the road -- a person in desperate need of his help.<br />
<br />
But the scenario plays out in two timelines, and, in the other, Shawn's secret stays safe -- but there's no one to help the injured woman, whose eventual murder comes to Shawn's attention when he's called in to investigate. Lives are on the line in more than one sense, and the resulting story is one of the most unique episodes of a procedural I've ever seen -- and a creative look at the ways in which our choices have the most unexpected, and powerful, of consequences.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>- The Yin/Yang Trilogy (Seasons 3-5)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu7jKtSC3Hvjs2ijlJIMcyHCFRp9z2Jjm8Nj2nfjb7g6_teOipcC1fhgMzmOwLK8eNFLK0C6ZwRKiQ3zj7wd7WlZOl6w9vu2aXANpac2LjnEHZGT-nGgJJrWACfO4ofO7_d2h8JvZQDN4/s1600/539c8ee00d3574cbdc84de201950648c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu7jKtSC3Hvjs2ijlJIMcyHCFRp9z2Jjm8Nj2nfjb7g6_teOipcC1fhgMzmOwLK8eNFLK0C6ZwRKiQ3zj7wd7WlZOl6w9vu2aXANpac2LjnEHZGT-nGgJJrWACfO4ofO7_d2h8JvZQDN4/s1600/539c8ee00d3574cbdc84de201950648c.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Psych </i>is not the only show to combine comedy with the mystery procedural, but, being chock-full of murder and mayhem, it generally keeps a sense of serious stakes beneath the show's fun and frivolity. In a handful of episodes, those high stakes come to the forefront -- as best exemplified in the three episodes centered on Mr. Yang, Santa Barbara's resident serial killer.<br />
<br />
Serving as the season finales of seasons three through five, Shawn finds himself the focus of Mr. Yang's psychotic puzzle-games -- on an increasingly personal level, as Yang targets Shawn's friends and family alike. The darker subject material allowed the writers and actors to show us other sides of these characters, while giving added weight to what we already know about them. Plus, Mr. Yang ended up being not only one of my favorite <i>Psych </i>villains -- but one of my favorite fictional baddies of all time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+eighth+season&1%2C1%2C">- A Nightmare on State Street (Season 8) </a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7Jh5J12p7Htfu6uS3TPgwWO8AZ9ECsjSf5R2hvGAt9nOYTaveS9NLJFsGiGW8BdcVEIZgdbADKuMoME8qm4Fu_2_muehrUirjF4Bmf1us_muC2FDUtz-zwSboUkw3_WKCPvGXPFavmQ/s1600/809_psych_gallery_anightmareonstatestreet_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7Jh5J12p7Htfu6uS3TPgwWO8AZ9ECsjSf5R2hvGAt9nOYTaveS9NLJFsGiGW8BdcVEIZgdbADKuMoME8qm4Fu_2_muehrUirjF4Bmf1us_muC2FDUtz-zwSboUkw3_WKCPvGXPFavmQ/s1600/809_psych_gallery_anightmareonstatestreet_7.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Written by James Roday, the penultimate episode of <i>Psych </i>is one of their all-time weirdest (I mean that as a high compliment). The episode has the unique distinction of being fan-chosen -- it was filmed after the script's synopsis won the most votes in <a href="http://deadline.com/2013/06/psych-gets-order-for-two-more-episodes-one-to-be-determined-by-fans-529425/">an online contest</a> pitting it against two other possible episodes.<br />
<br />
The fans chose well. The episode sees Gus seeking "dream therapy" (the original title of the episode) for a series of recurring nightmares filled with zombies, monsters, and the <i>Texas Chainsaw Massacre </i>house. The story neatly interweaves with the episode's requisite mystery, but the murder Gus and Shawn are trying to solve takes a backseat to the more pressing problem of Gus's nightmares. Many of the scenes are shot in a style befitting a horror film -- it's one of the most artistically-done episodes of <i>Psych's </i>run, stylistically-speaking -- which intertwines brilliantly with Gus's struggles to come to terms with how rapidly his life and circumstances are changing around him.<br />
<br />
Most shows find it difficult to address the emotional fallout of the major changes their characters face in a series finale, mostly because it's hard to explore the issues of a final episode when there are no more episodes to do so in. <i>Psych </i>solves this problem by devoting their next-to-last episode to that very fallout; when the final episode gives our characters a happy place on which to end their current story, the happiness feels earned as a result.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=psych+the+musical&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search">- The Musical</a></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LU_HvF_THax5NvRMwuNsqTeujFyUt0pQk3N3_9ykpP74GuubeLeg3q1sgP5sY9JCu4Jhukh1ONGC3JMAI4SGXCi1XvEaTxwZUljG_gxHQUL2ozpu1IaBmwnyQPwn3hVvOgwHf77A8uQ/s1600/psych-musical-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LU_HvF_THax5NvRMwuNsqTeujFyUt0pQk3N3_9ykpP74GuubeLeg3q1sgP5sY9JCu4Jhukh1ONGC3JMAI4SGXCi1XvEaTxwZUljG_gxHQUL2ozpu1IaBmwnyQPwn3hVvOgwHf77A8uQ/s1600/psych-musical-1.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Scrubs, That '70s Show, Grey's Anatomy, Ally McBeal, Northern Exposure, Oz … </i>Doing a musical episode has become something of a rite of passage for many television shows. For a show like <i>Psych, </i>which excels in satire and homages, it would almost have been odder if they <i>hadn't </i>done a musical episode at some point in their run.<br />
<br />
<i>Psych: The Musical </i>was done as a standalone special, airing during the show's seventh season. The songs were written by showrunner Steve Franks (along with show composer Adam Cohen) and manage to both pay homage to Broadway musicals while also perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the show. (Not to mention, they're quite catchy.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/psych-creator-musical-ive-checked-664410">Read more about the musical here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50Zvq07PXhBvx2qi27qQZC7ZmccycqiuUb5OV9Zw4UnR1sP1pY43Xmz78a19v1AazJnCZPAO51N2C3HLzYE0fCWYHECEEism5ijj1mvSTjGvFmmO1uW4-gMTG5C1e9WJk6oftDpnuOrs/s1600/Upload5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50Zvq07PXhBvx2qi27qQZC7ZmccycqiuUb5OV9Zw4UnR1sP1pY43Xmz78a19v1AazJnCZPAO51N2C3HLzYE0fCWYHECEEism5ijj1mvSTjGvFmmO1uW4-gMTG5C1e9WJk6oftDpnuOrs/s1600/Upload5.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i><b>From the Catalog</b></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+first+season&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season One</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+second+season+all+the+law+none+of+the+order&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Two</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+third+season+fake+psychic+real+detectives&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Three</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+fourth+season&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Four</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+fifth+season&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Five</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+sixth+season+fake+psychic+real+detectives&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Six</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+seventh+season&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Seven</a><br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tpsych+the+complete/tpsych+the+complete/1%2C9%2C9%2CB/frameset&FF=tpsych+the+complete+eighth+season&1%2C1%2C">Request Psych - Season Eight</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=psych+the+musical&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tpsych+the+complete">Request Psych - The Musical</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(psych%27s%20guide%20to%20crime%20fighting)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=a">Request the book <i>Psych's Guide to Crime Fighting For the Totally Unqualified</i></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOJQvZ39HCAjBGpFxUGOGwqAO9XDD1Je4UYrX9C14OYX2FwAaNzbqBNJf6hFeRzXPkimXOi54__lH-reqjEU0U-Bb3CdlYdQ_5LYHKfURP8qvqjivoTrNqS5bmqZxZQarrlocyxR4TTE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-17+at+3.52.47+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOJQvZ39HCAjBGpFxUGOGwqAO9XDD1Je4UYrX9C14OYX2FwAaNzbqBNJf6hFeRzXPkimXOi54__lH-reqjEU0U-Bb3CdlYdQ_5LYHKfURP8qvqjivoTrNqS5bmqZxZQarrlocyxR4TTE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-17+at+3.52.47+PM.png" height="200" width="115" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-89766291853243799312015-03-12T16:52:00.000-04:002015-03-12T16:52:43.009-04:00March Library Reads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSZWhx6nsSbd86fkN0jYDyw-F9p01YoD7meFuNAk8OsYV8Pw3yTRI8hhyphenhyphentZDDObjv6fAA5ZEsjtGwEd8BenXuCzp-qDAHJ3hO4YaWy3KN94ReBMR0XbgCqHCATmhn5I56IQl19kWM3VTb/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_MARCH2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSZWhx6nsSbd86fkN0jYDyw-F9p01YoD7meFuNAk8OsYV8Pw3yTRI8hhyphenhyphentZDDObjv6fAA5ZEsjtGwEd8BenXuCzp-qDAHJ3hO4YaWy3KN94ReBMR0XbgCqHCATmhn5I56IQl19kWM3VTb/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_MARCH2015.jpg" height="51" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://libraryreads.org/" target="_blank">March Library Reads</a> list is here and here are a few of the top picks from librarians!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7DpqCFI7d2z5hyphenhyphenF4QjHQewGWRucL7TqvOQAVzGT_wugJyrE-bIpIgq6eXKMESqI_h9mzX2UyF3NjYIqiN9iN1MSKOVzmj_hCUSFwd6rYdqHSJqeUDD8gwRyO1901PTTV80TY1Tezzhg4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-04+at+12.28.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7DpqCFI7d2z5hyphenhyphenF4QjHQewGWRucL7TqvOQAVzGT_wugJyrE-bIpIgq6eXKMESqI_h9mzX2UyF3NjYIqiN9iN1MSKOVzmj_hCUSFwd6rYdqHSJqeUDD8gwRyO1901PTTV80TY1Tezzhg4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-04+at+12.28.22+PM.png" height="320" width="291" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=love+song+of+miss+queenie+hennessy&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search" target="_blank">The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy: A Novel</a></b><br />
by Rachel Joyce<br />
<br />
“Miss Queenie Hennessy, who we met in Joyce’s first book, is in a hospice ruminating over her abundant life experiences. I loved the poignant passages and wise words peppered throughout. Readers of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry will enjoy this book. There’s no fast-paced plot or exciting twists–it’s just a simple, sweet story of a life well-lived.”<br />
<br />
Andrienne Cruz, Azusa City Library, Azusa, CA<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2su9iW9tJtUx2VARdujhf-g2BYLkrcg2aD3a8KX8Cqw5iCqi0CHo7mwKVfabOXrT1eTTu_CJJaZtCC57VxFRNj3bprClWY8SQoRAB6QvkRR5n8b4Fyl6j0QYNmOb2SB549FOKi28GUaA/s1600/DeadWake-198x300-198x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2su9iW9tJtUx2VARdujhf-g2BYLkrcg2aD3a8KX8Cqw5iCqi0CHo7mwKVfabOXrT1eTTu_CJJaZtCC57VxFRNj3bprClWY8SQoRAB6QvkRR5n8b4Fyl6j0QYNmOb2SB549FOKi28GUaA/s1600/DeadWake-198x300-198x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=dead+wake&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tlove+song+of+miss+queenie+hennessy" target="_blank">Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania</a></b><br />
by Erik Larson<br />
<br />
“In cinematic terms, this dramatic page-turner is Das Boot meets Titanic. Larson has a wonderful way of creating a very readable, accessible story of a time, place, and event. We get three sides of the global story–the U-boat commander, British Admiralty and President Wilson–but what really elevates this book are the affecting stories of individual crew and passengers.”<br />
<br />
Robert Schnell, Queens Library, Jamaica, NY<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6XmhH28SgpDTlmsNVdRSXlxuyPthIXkfhSCYfOr2TeKJRI38BpKVfNbjiZTOeJ7TQssHzmnk7OLFthwNPW43csEIXag3olVemFW9qReAYR5_Bofqk00lrcsX_3Om8gjXS13kr3jTA6c0/s1600/CatOutofHell-188x300-188x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6XmhH28SgpDTlmsNVdRSXlxuyPthIXkfhSCYfOr2TeKJRI38BpKVfNbjiZTOeJ7TQssHzmnk7OLFthwNPW43csEIXag3olVemFW9qReAYR5_Bofqk00lrcsX_3Om8gjXS13kr3jTA6c0/s1600/CatOutofHell-188x300-188x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=cat+out+of+hell&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tdead+wake" target="_blank">Cat Out of Hell</a></b><br />
by Lynne Truss<br />
<br />
“Cats don’t live nine lives. They survive eight deaths. There’s something special about Roger, the cat, and it’s not that he can talk. Truss spins readers through a hauntingly, portentous tale. When my cat’s tail thrums, I’ll forever wonder what devilment will follow.”<br />
<br />
Ann Williams, Tippecanoe County Public Library, Lafayette, IN<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hxuEbXpClN4JLMdbQ3pQLZl80gV1vjZNd_Bn6Z2eHha1f9LmhEysw8_WD2jbRhB2_l4RwbB6rYq8CwpZjfWCW_J08Hy8p75Iiwl5mASHoz1epKIpEuaMxXb8d2EbIBvNIMykm8CCn9Ng/s1600/FifthGospel-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hxuEbXpClN4JLMdbQ3pQLZl80gV1vjZNd_Bn6Z2eHha1f9LmhEysw8_WD2jbRhB2_l4RwbB6rYq8CwpZjfWCW_J08Hy8p75Iiwl5mASHoz1epKIpEuaMxXb8d2EbIBvNIMykm8CCn9Ng/s1600/FifthGospel-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tfifth+gospel/tfifth+gospel/1%2C2%2C3%2CB/frameset&FF=tfifth+gospel+a+novel&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-" target="_blank">The Fifth Gospel: A Novel</a></b><br />
by Ian Caldwell<br />
<br />
“A murder on Vatican property begins this tale of religion, politics, and family. Two brothers, both priests, struggle to make sense of their friend’s murder. When one is accused, the other must go to extreme lengths to prove his brother’s innocence. Caldwell’s second novel is a book to savor. This is a heart-wrenching book you will want to read more than once.”<br />
<br />
Elizabeth Kanouse, Denville Public Library, Denville, NJ<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkybdSqSv74ZZU7uecr-KgKXs5KIezj14wr-ZOBUg72Hf9izHTNf6nJP1x2_HTqCspzVWbWIfd_nSg5p4-G1WvfkgfdkufoLd_3TuIFu-qynk_3K9r1VhcFIg-E5pucmGLDr1yeY-XBiX2/s1600/WhereAllLightTendstoGo-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkybdSqSv74ZZU7uecr-KgKXs5KIezj14wr-ZOBUg72Hf9izHTNf6nJP1x2_HTqCspzVWbWIfd_nSg5p4-G1WvfkgfdkufoLd_3TuIFu-qynk_3K9r1VhcFIg-E5pucmGLDr1yeY-XBiX2/s1600/WhereAllLightTendstoGo-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Where+All+Light+Tends+to+Go&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tfifth+gospel" target="_blank">Where All Light Tends to Go</a></b><br />
by David Joy<br />
<br />
“This beautifully written novel juxtaposes the glory of the Appalachians against the despair of everyday life. Jacob McNeely recognizes his family’s brutality, but Maggie, the love of his life, gives him hope. Achingly told, the visceral prose will stay with readers long past the conclusion. Fans of the Southern fiction of Ron Rash and Wiley Cash will fall in love with this new voice.”<br />
<br />
Jennifer Winberry, Hunterdon County Library, Flemington, NJ<br />
<br />
<br />
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-980923643827828142015-03-06T15:55:00.000-05:002015-03-06T15:55:11.250-05:00Live Long and Prosper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FLKFbhVj-YKsx3gtzY9MDBxbviHAsxXVmZDmdmElUEZwPJ8X16uYF30qHkxetvkp-qJ4_uedIzdrcuvjOSkFf7l0Fj-10pGfNJi-jvREv6FemHFXeaqL_ThgvnNQTnsMZb4V2yWJNhg/s1600/Leonard-Nimoy-Retiring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FLKFbhVj-YKsx3gtzY9MDBxbviHAsxXVmZDmdmElUEZwPJ8X16uYF30qHkxetvkp-qJ4_uedIzdrcuvjOSkFf7l0Fj-10pGfNJi-jvREv6FemHFXeaqL_ThgvnNQTnsMZb4V2yWJNhg/s1600/Leonard-Nimoy-Retiring.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
You'll remember that we folks at "New @ MPL" are <a href="http://monroevillelibrary.blogspot.com/search/label/star%20trek">lifelong <i>Star Trek </i>fans</a>. So it probably comes as no surprise to hear that we were rather brokenhearted at the news that Leonard Nimoy -- the actor behind the half-human, half-alien character of Spock in <i>Star Trek: The Original Series, </i>had passed away at the age of 83.<br />
<br />
We've talked quite a lot about <a href="http://monroevillelibrary.blogspot.com/2013/08/captains-and-crews.html">the character of Spock</a>, and about <a href="http://monroevillelibrary.blogspot.com/2012/03/birthday-biography-search-for-spock.html">the career of Leonard Nimoy</a> (which encompassed far more than simply Spock), elsewhere on this blog. So, instead of a tribute from us, we've rounded up a collection of some of the best articles, essays, and reflections on the life and times of Nimoy and the unforgettable sci-fi icon he played.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMql2nMaYtBqmDLATTwcWsTUadJhFrC2NgjGa66DpT7abO66OBnGqo82C78Ypn0kz6hLaG0NgNOF9QDPkMEiyuYahx-UxlV7hhEmI5E-RfyEkP99fd7g7glWTtd0GQH4sGbkOFxuFa6w/s1600/20150225nimoy-adv-obit-slide-UX16-jumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMql2nMaYtBqmDLATTwcWsTUadJhFrC2NgjGa66DpT7abO66OBnGqo82C78Ypn0kz6hLaG0NgNOF9QDPkMEiyuYahx-UxlV7hhEmI5E-RfyEkP99fd7g7glWTtd0GQH4sGbkOFxuFa6w/s1600/20150225nimoy-adv-obit-slide-UX16-jumbo.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/27/arts/television/leonard-nimoy-spock-of-star-trek-dies-at-83.html">Leonard Nimoy, Spock of 'Star Trek,' Dies at 83</a> -- from the New York Times.<br />
<br />
"In Spock, I finally found the best of both worlds: to be widely accepted in public approval and yet be able to continue to play the insulated alien through the Vulcan character."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nerdist.com/2015/02/leonard-nimoys-10-greatest-spock-moments-in-star-trek/">Leonard Nimoy's 10 Greatest Spock Moments in Star Trek</a> -- from the Nerdist.<br />
<br />
"That's nearly fifty years [playing] one character, and I can’t think of another actor who had the opportunity Nimoy had, to take one character successfully through that many stages in life over so long a period of time."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/style-blog/wp/2015/02/27/the-jewish-roots-of-leonard-nimoy-and-live-long-and-prosper/">The Jewish Roots of Leonard Nimoy and 'Live Long and Prosper'</a> -- from the Washington Post<br />
<br />
"The man who would play Spock saw the gesture as part of a blessing, and it never left him."<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB7d0oC_F6Kg67px0EhYBWVQg9sr4EuZW19Iq-o7ZmtOggSwq0NmSkLWrVT_KzDQtkO_CTpRhWlS2rZ7pv8nvb9RUc5UGHXCJcrRzjt1yTgFwbFiXZa9XtPcRwDmE0KYPDWVeTqnZblzM/s1600/28nimoy_video_hp-videoSixteenByNine1050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB7d0oC_F6Kg67px0EhYBWVQg9sr4EuZW19Iq-o7ZmtOggSwq0NmSkLWrVT_KzDQtkO_CTpRhWlS2rZ7pv8nvb9RUc5UGHXCJcrRzjt1yTgFwbFiXZa9XtPcRwDmE0KYPDWVeTqnZblzM/s1600/28nimoy_video_hp-videoSixteenByNine1050.jpg" height="229" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.npr.org/2015/03/01/389594443/mr-spock-and-the-consolations-of-solitude">Mr. Spock and the Consolations of Solitude</a> -- from NPR.<br />
<br />
"What matters is surviving to get back to the ship and your friends and your life's work, and leaving orbit to explore strange new worlds."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cbs.com/recommended-galleries/1003563/12-ways-leonard-nimoy-made-spock-more-human-than-the-rest-of-us/">12 Ways Leonard Nimoy Made Spock More Human Than the Rest of Us</a> -- from CBS.<br />
<br />
"Thank you, Leonard Nimoy. Because of you, Spock was more than half human in our hearts."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rollingstone.com/tv/news/president-obama-j-j-abrams-zachary-quinto-pay-tribute-to-leonard-nimoy-20150228">President Obama, J.J. Abrams Pay Tribute to Leonard Nimoy</a> -- from Rolling Stone.<br />
<br />
"It was only logical to greet him with the Vulcan salute, the universal sign for 'Live long and prosper.' And after 83 years on this planet -- and on his visits to many others -- it's clear Leonard Nimoy did just that."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/style-blog/wp/2015/02/28/the-touching-tribute-to-leonard-nimoy-from-space/">The Touching Tribute to Leonard Nimoy From Space</a> -- from the Washington Post.<br />
<br />
"Despite the fact he worked in fiction, anyone who can inspire that many people to look into the sky and wonder has done something really important for mankind."<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih7sEVgokSfBRpL-ugAqPMXSLCL4t-SLFycrd7v_IBRyxKr-jDZOKfFwGv58EfpVvmXSYsrNZPLkEf07fIPQWGryBGSXQtrkqnXp6tTJuiBELEnNA5y8iN3LTVVB6pzYTHKiJPp-kMM4c/s1600/B-8XBbyVIAA0wiV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih7sEVgokSfBRpL-ugAqPMXSLCL4t-SLFycrd7v_IBRyxKr-jDZOKfFwGv58EfpVvmXSYsrNZPLkEf07fIPQWGryBGSXQtrkqnXp6tTJuiBELEnNA5y8iN3LTVVB6pzYTHKiJPp-kMM4c/s1600/B-8XBbyVIAA0wiV.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ew.com/article/2015/03/02/george-takei-says-leonard-nimoy-was-most-human-person-ive-ever-met-exclusive?asdf">George Takei Says Leonard Nimoy Was 'The Most Human Person I've Ever Met'</a> -- from EW.<br />
<br />
"Leonard played an alien, but to me, he was the most human person I’ve ever met."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.openculture.com/2015/02/leonard-nimoy-reads-classic-ray-bradbury-stories.html">Leonard Nimoy Reads Ray Bradbury Stories from <i>The Martian Chronicles</i> and <i>The Illustrated Man</i> (1975-76)</a> -- from OpenCulture.<br />
<br />
"In the mid-seventies, a pair of record albums came out that together offered a truly singular listening experience: the voice of Bradbury in the voice of Nimoy."<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/therealnimoy/status/569762773204217857">Leonard Nimoy's Final Tweet</a> -- from Twitter.<br />
<br />
"A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP"<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTJhKRPOPcwdlkCjhHTBM3WF3ivHHrQatLNDoC1iE8y3heJerUd7kB1twsCfXajuRu5WcS8rpTfQKN4X5YeMru_9IeHPO0DDBL_63WqiIB6C1FdGqLIwZ9GoPiR3D6lLVyaNJUWdFEn0/s1600/LLAP.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTJhKRPOPcwdlkCjhHTBM3WF3ivHHrQatLNDoC1iE8y3heJerUd7kB1twsCfXajuRu5WcS8rpTfQKN4X5YeMru_9IeHPO0DDBL_63WqiIB6C1FdGqLIwZ9GoPiR3D6lLVyaNJUWdFEn0/s1600/LLAP.jpeg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tstar+trek+the+original+series/tstar+trek+the+original+series/1%2C25%2C50%2CB/frameset&FF=tstar+trek+the+original+series+season++++1&1%2C1%2C">Request <i>Star Trek: The Original Series:</i> Season One from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tstar+trek+the+original+series/tstar+trek+the+original+series/1%2C25%2C50%2CB/frameset&FF=tstar+trek+the+original+series+season++++2&1%2C1%2C">Request <i>Star Trek: The Original Series:</i> Season Two from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tstar+trek+the+original+series/tstar+trek+the+original+series/1%2C25%2C50%2CB/frameset&FF=tstar+trek+the+original+series+season++++3&1%2C1%2C">Request <i>Star Trek: The Original Series:</i> Season Three from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=a:(nimoy%2C%20leonard)%20and%20(narrator)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=h">Request a Nimoy-narrated documentary from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/Xa:(nimoy%2C+leonard)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=a/Xa:(nimoy%2C+leonard)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=a&SUBKEY=a%3A(nimoy%2C+leonard)/1%2C4%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=Xa:(nimoy%2C+leonard)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=a&3%2C3%2C">Request his autobiography, <i>I Am Spock, </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6Cer11xzqfpWhakqJEo_yzT_eePZBH4t2IYLDYCABLFMirI_DY9kBCDdPr_AEvKGLmFcZPX-HfHrE8bTRQrvIpWY5MEX70S-0oMxfzaMMxuq7xIv2vks8Pww8XxmABWlz97A3jcF180/s1600/74cc28416b646ae6f87d5a502fbd03b7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6Cer11xzqfpWhakqJEo_yzT_eePZBH4t2IYLDYCABLFMirI_DY9kBCDdPr_AEvKGLmFcZPX-HfHrE8bTRQrvIpWY5MEX70S-0oMxfzaMMxuq7xIv2vks8Pww8XxmABWlz97A3jcF180/s1600/74cc28416b646ae6f87d5a502fbd03b7.jpg" height="320" width="318" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
-- <i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a> and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a></i>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-8302790705460812122015-02-26T17:45:00.001-05:002015-02-26T17:45:41.337-05:00Laugh and the World Laughs With You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q-pZtZ5GvKigPrLFjk_jG78LlIzYEd9uWHhu5RjoUzl7f1j-SLpd4oJjQyTYuQppWQD4uKU_2-Zvoqn8M_iwr9b9YLRa1jgcmuP98Q_78GqtKc4J7knOu3BfJf2U-Y25gCl1SLv93Jw/s1600/36235991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q-pZtZ5GvKigPrLFjk_jG78LlIzYEd9uWHhu5RjoUzl7f1j-SLpd4oJjQyTYuQppWQD4uKU_2-Zvoqn8M_iwr9b9YLRa1jgcmuP98Q_78GqtKc4J7knOu3BfJf2U-Y25gCl1SLv93Jw/s1600/36235991.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
In celebration of comedian Eddie Izzard's recent birthday (February 7), we're here to offer you a highly subjective list of a few of our favorite comedians. Let them tell you a little bit about themselves -- in their own words:<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Mike Birbiglia</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSFpF75ptEY8p1okhNdVywFECmXEx2lA_iwJOvKtL6Pl7dqwWud7ZL0nNnC6O_MXvruPzU3h1rK20wJHfm5p05ULetGW1wUbKA7-QBnhiJnxsCXTJ27PI5FROHTWDWGZIkJDp-CAG6GA/s1600/56366-show-94004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSFpF75ptEY8p1okhNdVywFECmXEx2lA_iwJOvKtL6Pl7dqwWud7ZL0nNnC6O_MXvruPzU3h1rK20wJHfm5p05ULetGW1wUbKA7-QBnhiJnxsCXTJ27PI5FROHTWDWGZIkJDp-CAG6GA/s1600/56366-show-94004.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<i>"Growing up, I was discouraged from telling personal stories about insignificant things. Like, I wouldn't make the soccer team, and my father would say, 'Don't tell anyone.' And I would say, 'They're gonna know when they show up to the games and I'm not on the team and I'm crying."</i><br />
<br />
Mike Birbiglia's comedy has appeared several times on NPR, and his <i>Sleepwalk With Me</i> story -- in which he recounts the time he sleepwalked his way out of a two-story hotel window -- went on to become a best-selling book, as well as a film. He also runs an online blog, <i><a href="http://birbigs.com/spj">My Secret Public Journal</a>, </i>where you can read his humor essays and stay up-to-date on upcoming shows.<br />
<br />
You can hear his sleepwalking story <a href="http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-archives/episode/361/fear-of-sleep?act=1#play">on NPR's website</a>.<br />
<br />
<i>"I wake up at 4:30 am to jump on a plane, which is that part of the morning before the earth even exists. Before they've even programmed the Matrix. You walk out of your apartment and the road isn't even there. You walk out of your house, and there's just a guy with a laptop who yells, 'We need a road, stat!' 'How 'bout a building, Tank!'"</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/abirbiglia+mike/abirbiglia+mike/1%2C1%2C7%2CB/frameset&FF=abirbiglia+mike&6%2C%2C7">Request <i>What I Should Have Said Was Nothing</i> from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Ellen DeGeneres</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lRgv8qrYvxdu1f6NwzBIf5TYy4XdITFMz_aBRw0wo5gQAwCN9tM85XJkCblHLODP8k1g2MbKB0xwxc50PM-5E-osF1cXh5mLuRrfFAAUSssWL4VdIzcHWNg6xNEaE-jjVW0pdh1svOg/s1600/9501541_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lRgv8qrYvxdu1f6NwzBIf5TYy4XdITFMz_aBRw0wo5gQAwCN9tM85XJkCblHLODP8k1g2MbKB0xwxc50PM-5E-osF1cXh5mLuRrfFAAUSssWL4VdIzcHWNg6xNEaE-jjVW0pdh1svOg/s1600/9501541_orig.jpg" height="320" width="288" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>"All we have is the here and now. That's why procrastination feels so right. Procrastinate now; don't put it off!"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Before her long-running daytime talk show and acting career, Ellen Degeneres started out as a stand-up comedian. She gained acclaim for her observational humor in the early 80s, appearing on <i>The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson </i>in 1986 (Carson reportedly likened her to Bob Newhart). She's hosted the Oscars, the Emmys, the Grammys, won 13 Emmys and 14 People's Choice Awards -- and voiced the forgetful fish Dory in Pixar's classic animated film <i>Finding Nemo.</i><br />
<br />
<i>"Have you ever heard somebody sing some lyrics that you've never sung before, and you realize you've never sung the right words in that song? You hear them, and all of a sudden you say to yourself, 'Life in the Fast Lane?' That's what they're saying right there? You think, Why have I been singing 'wipe in the vaseline?' How many people have heard me sing 'wipe in the vaseline?' I am an idiot."</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/adegeneres+ellen/adegeneres+ellen/1%2C1%2C39%2CB/frameset&FF=adegeneres+ellen&7%2C%2C39/indexsort=-">Request <i>Ellen DeGeneres: Here and Now </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Eddie Izzard</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibevTyBoW4cLfJdSqVSigQv2_Gvxvfy6jtc-OVw13FBMGcCwwCoHOjP8r_Dwn2Vx5525UGQ2bXhsn5ipJNF65MOpuCDvOe0sG6-DyrjMZxiUrcdRGVJZpKPi03GiuEcx3cm_Euachei6Q/s1600/eddieizzard1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibevTyBoW4cLfJdSqVSigQv2_Gvxvfy6jtc-OVw13FBMGcCwwCoHOjP8r_Dwn2Vx5525UGQ2bXhsn5ipJNF65MOpuCDvOe0sG6-DyrjMZxiUrcdRGVJZpKPi03GiuEcx3cm_Euachei6Q/s1600/eddieizzard1.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<i>"It's the cutting edge of politics in a very extraordinarily boring way."</i><br />
<br />
Born in England, Eddie Izzard's comedy incorporates world history, politics, religion, languages, and film study into his comedy (I was first introduced to his stand-up when a college linguistics professor showed us a few clips from Izzard's shows). But when your Henry VIII sounds like Sean Connery and you've got Death Star Stormtroopers sipping tea and waving flags, the resultant show is anything but dry. Izzard's humor effortlessly juxtaposes the everyday with the truly quirky, and the result is wholly unique.<br />
<br />
<i>"We stole countries! That's how you build an empire. We stole countries, with the cunning use of flags. Just sail halfway around the world, stick a flag in. 'I claim India for Britain.' And they're going, 'You can't claim us; we live here! There's five hundred million of us!' - 'Do you have a flag?' - 'We don't need a bloody flag, this is our country!' - 'No flag, no country! You can't have one. That's the rules that I've just made up!'"</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=dress+to+kill&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tdressed+to+kill">Request <i>Dress to Kill </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>-- Louis C.K.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgU4UpsbT1TRdIreCIzqUkPqbKz8fcvaZBIC4z3BCc4MtGihF1c-0SHBYIVTJC6qX0MbwxrhYya4dFp2Iwfb9_7Z6zG7lqM0R9DEEJoVIPK9M4ohmLaQc4QV9ZafAUTxJS0XrfMn5hn4/s1600/Louis-CK-on-HBO-special.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgU4UpsbT1TRdIreCIzqUkPqbKz8fcvaZBIC4z3BCc4MtGihF1c-0SHBYIVTJC6qX0MbwxrhYya4dFp2Iwfb9_7Z6zG7lqM0R9DEEJoVIPK9M4ohmLaQc4QV9ZafAUTxJS0XrfMn5hn4/s1600/Louis-CK-on-HBO-special.jpg" height="320" width="309" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<i>"People on planes are the worst. They get off the plane, they come to your house, and they tell you about their whole flight experience. 'That was the worst day of my life! I had to sit on the runway for forty minutes!' For forty minutes? Oh, my God, really? What happened then?? Did you fly through the air, like a bird, incredibly? Did you soar into the clouds, impossibly? Did you partake in the miracle of human flight, and then land softly on giant tires that you couldn't even conceive how they put air in them?? How dare you! Complaining about flying! 'I had to pay for my sandwich --' YOU'RE FLYING! You're sitting in a chair in the sky! You're like a Greek myth right now!! [You think] air travel is too slow? [It's] New York to California in six hours! That used to take thirty years!"</i><br />
<br />
Combining his self-deprecating humor with his observations on modern society, Louis C.K. manages to make us laugh at our own shortcomings, as well. Releasing his annual stand-up shows on his website, <a href="https://www.louisck.net/">LouisCK.net</a>, he is also the creator, head writer, and star of the hit FX series <i>Louis. </i><br />
<br />
<i>"So then my doctor's like, 'Well, okay. How far into a meal do you typically realize you're full and stop eating?' And I'm like -- 'I don't stop eating when I'm full. The meal isn't over when I'm full. The meal is over when I hate myself.'"</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/thilarious/thilarious/1%2C9%2C11%2CB/frameset&FF=thilarious&2%2C%2C2/indexsort=-">Request <i>Hilarious </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-14430490002011085752015-02-19T15:40:00.001-05:002015-02-19T15:40:04.779-05:00It's Oscar Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWwU9pAbHfJ2eQUXrENIlEEOQkSSy_hfw_qjmQDaKg-tpFtGv-slLCOPZNS9lbBfTme48Tje6dbnwrWrCcHtFWlRyK6oWUHrw1HRoikJiKa431ikrFoRSDVibJpud2Dt2vdri0faeX2rL/s1600/oscars.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWwU9pAbHfJ2eQUXrENIlEEOQkSSy_hfw_qjmQDaKg-tpFtGv-slLCOPZNS9lbBfTme48Tje6dbnwrWrCcHtFWlRyK6oWUHrw1HRoikJiKa431ikrFoRSDVibJpud2Dt2vdri0faeX2rL/s1600/oscars.1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You may recall that I made predictions two years ago for the Academy Awards with the plan of doing it every year. For whatever reason, I did not make any predictions last year. So I am back and I plan to make this an annual occurrence.<br />
<br />
Once again I have not seen all of the nominated films or performances. I managed to see four of the eight of the films nominated in the Best Picture category. And while I have my personal favorites I will not share them here, although some may be obvious from prior <a href="http://monroevillelibrary.blogspot.com/search/label/wes%20anderson" target="_blank">posts</a>. This is going to be who I think the winners will be, not necessarily who I would like to see win.<br />
<br />
So let's get to it! I'll check back in next week to see how I did!<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Best Picture</b><br />
<br />
<i>American Sniper</i><br />
<i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tbirdman/tbirdman/1%2C24%2C24%2CB/frameset&FF=tbirdman&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tboyhood/tboyhood/1%2C31%2C0%2CB/limit" target="_blank">Boyhood</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tgrand+budapest+hotel/tgrand+budapest+hotel/1%2C6%2C6%2CB/limit" target="_blank">The Grand Budapest Hotel</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/timitation+game/timitation+game/1%2C4%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=timitation+game+dvd&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">The Imitation Game</a></i><br />
<i>Selma</i><br />
<i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/ttheory+of+everything/ttheory+of+everything/1%2C13%2C13%2CB/frameset&FF=ttheory+of+everything+dvd&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">The Theory of Everything</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/twhiplash/twhiplash/1%2C22%2C22%2CB/frameset&FF=twhiplash+dvd&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">Whiplash</a></i><br />
<br />
My prediction: <i><b>Boyhood</b></i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikTer2HJ2-mPi5yRSSRVZvQfnHNFmicXMQXxzi3Vpj613LAYtzJTDxM7kQ57OCMk0y1GUB3tjiL2WMUXRCB1-ghDgWKrJ0JcXG5GGaP-IBsyusWUxPz8lWJZRv0aMT0CN9qtFVYtyYLsDs/s1600/sq_boyhood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikTer2HJ2-mPi5yRSSRVZvQfnHNFmicXMQXxzi3Vpj613LAYtzJTDxM7kQ57OCMk0y1GUB3tjiL2WMUXRCB1-ghDgWKrJ0JcXG5GGaP-IBsyusWUxPz8lWJZRv0aMT0CN9qtFVYtyYLsDs/s1600/sq_boyhood.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Actor in a Leading Role</b><br />
<br />
Steve Carell, <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tfoxcatcher/tfoxcatcher/1%2C4%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=tfoxcatcher&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">Foxcatcher</a></i><br />
Bradley Cooper, <i>American Sniper</i><br />
Benedict Cumberbatch, <i>The Imitation Game</i><br />
Michael Keaton, <i>Birdman</i><br />
Eddie Redmayne, <i>The Theory of Everything</i><br />
<br />
My prediction: <b>Michael Keaton, <i>Birdman</i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisT4GkEuHWKNHQQ17Gdha0mGUjIq0-JEhhYtN-8gGsTofWcK13__iF_p7DN5iU-PFlxN6TLd375Dz_PxPkZRFUORxSNHo3_QHNM7KMOPz_0vVV0w3LQemaBHbkv-PWPMPiP2Xzd1Ag7mRq/s1600/and-the-oscar-goes-to-could-birdman-be-the-first-superhero-movie-nominated-for-best-picture.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisT4GkEuHWKNHQQ17Gdha0mGUjIq0-JEhhYtN-8gGsTofWcK13__iF_p7DN5iU-PFlxN6TLd375Dz_PxPkZRFUORxSNHo3_QHNM7KMOPz_0vVV0w3LQemaBHbkv-PWPMPiP2Xzd1Ag7mRq/s1600/and-the-oscar-goes-to-could-birdman-be-the-first-superhero-movie-nominated-for-best-picture.jpeg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Actor in a Supporting Role</b><br />
<br />
Robert Duvall, <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/X?SEARCH=(judge%20robert%20duvall)&searchscope=1&SORT=D&m=h&m=3" target="_blank">The Judge</a></i><br />
Ethan Hawke, <i>Boyhood</i><br />
Edward Norton, <i>Birdman</i><br />
Mark Ruffalo, <i>Foxcatcher</i><br />
J.K. Simmons, <i>Whiplash</i><br />
<br />
My prediction: <b>J.K. Simmons, <i>Whiplash</i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zTXMCKA6WY82ukZa89M8phUMA2B3K8m7gex0kiTGUmw6qD4XTjAo5NG95I63fUnxlfoYKHXcBiFjkF3uyg2nZjugvsSu76RwVvCcr_Zgy8jikhltXhU3KPQ_nOxrkbCymVyaEtBXhUZN/s1600/635483774418719401-01-simmons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zTXMCKA6WY82ukZa89M8phUMA2B3K8m7gex0kiTGUmw6qD4XTjAo5NG95I63fUnxlfoYKHXcBiFjkF3uyg2nZjugvsSu76RwVvCcr_Zgy8jikhltXhU3KPQ_nOxrkbCymVyaEtBXhUZN/s1600/635483774418719401-01-simmons.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Actress in a Leading Role</b><br />
<br />
Marion Cotillard, <i>Two Days, One Night</i><br />
Felicity Jones, <i>The Theory of Everything</i><br />
Julianne Moore, <i>Still Alice</i><br />
Rosamund Pike, <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tgone+girl/tgone+girl/1%2C3%2C16%2CB/limit" target="_blank">Gone Girl</a></i><br />
Reese Witherspoon, <i>Wild</i><br />
<br />
My prediction: <b>Julianne Moore, <i>Still Alice</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzbx21YJdV-oiuy-ha3vezSDMYVVZR_ODqNXY3EwsCOCIIA6bpBT1yDVhctRL8RRseukoNYeq5nlEFE4wKmQrN__0lQEyKRY3kmeVock40f9fUKk0UvsDAx9G83H0Ec8SJSVyP-uCEVSV/s1600/Still_Alice_Still.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzbx21YJdV-oiuy-ha3vezSDMYVVZR_ODqNXY3EwsCOCIIA6bpBT1yDVhctRL8RRseukoNYeq5nlEFE4wKmQrN__0lQEyKRY3kmeVock40f9fUKk0UvsDAx9G83H0Ec8SJSVyP-uCEVSV/s1600/Still_Alice_Still.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Actress in a Supporting Role</b><br />
<br />
Patricia Arquette, <i>Boyhood</i><br />
Laura Dern, <i>Wild</i><br />
Keira Knightley, <i>The Imitation Game</i><br />
Emma Stone, <i>Birdman</i><br />
Meryl Streep, <i>Into The Woods</i><br />
<br />
My prediction: <b>Patricia Arquette, <i>Boyhood</i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqp7RfdE1er2gn_h5uG6Ns3pGvbuqyh6DAeSF0MUbDFljfN_iXW7efGW9G79ljpSPzB0Cj-JwFLS4uYyVT9LuTeecqLqirG5jOFan_bOyv0ujEUIoOroDI4m0eVPmPTQTAqW5wKrlKrnk-/s1600/boyhood-arquette1-620x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqp7RfdE1er2gn_h5uG6Ns3pGvbuqyh6DAeSF0MUbDFljfN_iXW7efGW9G79ljpSPzB0Cj-JwFLS4uYyVT9LuTeecqLqirG5jOFan_bOyv0ujEUIoOroDI4m0eVPmPTQTAqW5wKrlKrnk-/s1600/boyhood-arquette1-620x400.jpg" height="206" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Directing</b><br />
<br />
Alejandro G. Iñárritu, <i>Birdman</i><br />
Richard Linklater, <i>Boyhood</i><br />
Bennett Miller, <i>Foxcatcher</i><br />
Wes Anderson, <i>The Grand Budapest Hotel</i><br />
Morten Tyldum, <i>The Imitation Game</i><br />
<br />
My prediction: <b>Alejandro G. Iñárritu, <i>Birdman</i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKdSzq8yA_0AS-M2GnS7zkUv6p2g0QuJKEpxa-K0nzZPNZRI9lwMi8xIvGkT1SawAcNlzX0owAdSaYQXZKMjiDDE_wJkLBxcNHgt2VsN0lZ6k8cZe0AMkHHqzOBtRD59XKkr__oppcBpj/s1600/Birdman_poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKdSzq8yA_0AS-M2GnS7zkUv6p2g0QuJKEpxa-K0nzZPNZRI9lwMi8xIvGkT1SawAcNlzX0owAdSaYQXZKMjiDDE_wJkLBxcNHgt2VsN0lZ6k8cZe0AMkHHqzOBtRD59XKkr__oppcBpj/s1600/Birdman_poster.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-59204459494538964602015-02-17T17:58:00.001-05:002015-02-17T17:58:18.393-05:00Like No Business I Know<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><i>Read on for a trio of reading recommendations on one of America's favorite topics: <b>fame.</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lo1kQsf1zpLpcDlq5FPqgwWQ2Xe2VuGS39Eb6uxmAgnYBrRJb3JhSA5MWuto6bxb6gKnvY93ZEmd5nxB5UVUfI2mvXJ6UQFwBqJqjkn5W6OJk_5f40IAXD6Q81hn0Zyn6SxySSy17fs/s1600/paparazzi_red_carpet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lo1kQsf1zpLpcDlq5FPqgwWQ2Xe2VuGS39Eb6uxmAgnYBrRJb3JhSA5MWuto6bxb6gKnvY93ZEmd5nxB5UVUfI2mvXJ6UQFwBqJqjkn5W6OJk_5f40IAXD6Q81hn0Zyn6SxySSy17fs/s1600/paparazzi_red_carpet.jpg" height="302" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Stardom isn’t a profession; it’s an accident.”</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>-- Lauren Bacall</i></div>
<br />
<br />
- <b>The Setup: A True Story of Dirty Cops, Soccer Moms, and Reality TV</b> by Pete Crooks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zPvSNMbPfEQMro3QIZSOWElkH9nN-9Bn8jfv-_DK4hyphenhyphenmD7u7fuEaQwVWKDqxUJfH94L3rGTX0tX9-H0rNfpymC58Ll5MVu0ZouI-TGtCUj13wG79y6-tOGT3ooFDrQBqx7mNzQ5SFHI/s1600/Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zPvSNMbPfEQMro3QIZSOWElkH9nN-9Bn8jfv-_DK4hyphenhyphenmD7u7fuEaQwVWKDqxUJfH94L3rGTX0tX9-H0rNfpymC58Ll5MVu0ZouI-TGtCUj13wG79y6-tOGT3ooFDrQBqx7mNzQ5SFHI/s1600/Cover.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>non-fiction</i><br />
<br />
Chris Butler was a former cop who'd opened his own PI firm in California. So far, so normal -- except that Butler's firm was staffed entirely by soccer moms. Average, everyday women who had become real-life versions of Charlie's Angels.<br />
<br />
Even before Lifetime came banging at their door to offer them a reality TV show (to be called <i>PI Moms</i>), Butler and his soccer moms were a hit, appearing in such places as <i>People </i>magazine and <i>Dr. Phil. </i>(They even got a mention by <i>This American Life </i>host Ira Glass.) When reporter Pete Crooks was promised a ride-along one on of the firm's cases, he was just a writer for the California lifestyle magazine <i>Diablo, </i>looking for nothing more than a typical local fluff piece.<br />
<i><br /></i>
But if Crooks's adventure with the "PI Moms" seemed too good to be true, it wasn't long before he discovered ... it was. The PI bust he'd witnessed had been a set-up, the clients and perpetrators played by actors. The whole scene had been staged -- and it wasn't the first time such a set-up had occurred. Soon, Crooks was peeling back the layers of a bizarre case involving disgruntled employees, illegal drugs, and a con intended to make good use of the lack of "reality" often required for a reality TV show.<br />
<br />
I was personally hoping for more time spent on the "Moms" themselves, in the hopes of finding out why such ordinary people would agree to take part in such an extraordinary con, and what the determination for fame might truly cost. But if you're looking for a read on the bizarre layers of a corrupt would-be star, give this book a whirl.<br />
<br />
Read Crooks's original article for <i>Diablo </i>magazine <a href="http://www.diablomag.com/April-2011/The-Setup/">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tset-up/tset+up/1%2C13%2C21%2CB/frameset&FF=tset+up+a+true+story+of+dirty+cops+soccer+moms+and+reality+tv&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">Request <i>The Setup </i>from the Catalog</a></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
- <b>Fame Junkies: The Hidden Truths Behind America's Favorite Addiction</b> by Jake Halpern.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMS2uRHy7KTSSK8kKjMOUXqEC8HkKe8BuIoVqO0KYq6CoaXXyEIqVPEu4xy9ac2oZcD4dqanhAh21FXlEkC-Yy8Ymhks8KhEKH4kvSUDLJAdGlxWyYJsg9mJUzGWlBa9MrFhLUkGYp38/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-11+at+8.34.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMS2uRHy7KTSSK8kKjMOUXqEC8HkKe8BuIoVqO0KYq6CoaXXyEIqVPEu4xy9ac2oZcD4dqanhAh21FXlEkC-Yy8Ymhks8KhEKH4kvSUDLJAdGlxWyYJsg9mJUzGWlBa9MrFhLUkGYp38/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-11+at+8.34.55+PM.png" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>non-fiction</i><br />
<br />
Fame, author Jake Halpern argues, is one of America's biggest addictions. From entertainment magazines to reality television shows, our obsession with celebrity has never been higher. In this book, Halpern tries to figure out why.<br />
<br />
He travels the country to interview three different types of people who are committed to the pursuit of fame: hopeful performers looking for their big break (focusing particularly on would-be child stars), the workers who devote their careers to celebrities (in the forms of paparazzi or celebrity personal assistants), and obsessed fans to the stars (like the Pittsburgh woman who has a room in her house devoted entirely to singer Rod Stewart). Along the way, he talks to psychologists, sociologists, biologists, counselors, and other experts to try to peel back the layers of why we're so fascinated by the world of celebrities -- and the celebrities who inhabit it.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=fame+junkies&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search">Request <i>Fame Junkies</i> from the Catalog</a></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
- <b>Funny Girl</b> by Nick Hornby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4GPqNoH2txqJFOOuLF99plWZdksMs2RSrFpMTTsbNXkdUlKixwxsJ4BLakz-nEsF4lD4M1BpYcIlV6QtVLvDup9xdY6SmFzM1tm1WegrBxt6vy8x5heA-3riMeBM8suBq3f3xcZwxaw/s1600/91x4OZ12NpL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4GPqNoH2txqJFOOuLF99plWZdksMs2RSrFpMTTsbNXkdUlKixwxsJ4BLakz-nEsF4lD4M1BpYcIlV6QtVLvDup9xdY6SmFzM1tm1WegrBxt6vy8x5heA-3riMeBM8suBq3f3xcZwxaw/s1600/91x4OZ12NpL.jpg" height="320" width="203" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>fiction</i><br />
<br />
Barbara Parker only entered the Miss Blackpool beauty pageant because you have to start somewhere if you want to be a star. And Barbara doesn't want to be just any type of star: she wants to go on television and star in a sit-com, like her hero, Lucille Ball. She knows she's got the talent, but she's also a woman in 1960s England, where she's more likely to be offered a job making coffee than making people laugh.<br />
<br />
But she's got serendipity on her side, and so a chance meeting, a name change, and her own sense of committed determination leads her to a starring role in a sit-com designed just for her. The ensuing fames is beyond what she'd hoped for -- even as her own life begins to oddly mirror that of her sit-com alter ego.<br />
<br />
Her story is intertwined with her cast and crewmates from her series: the show's creators, their producer, her on-screen husband, the occasional guest stars. The various characters gives Hornby a chance to look at different facets of show business: what it means to be famous, the art of comedy, the tension between highbrow art critics versus those in the world of popular culture, and, ultimately, what we strive for in life -- whether we're famous or not.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/X?SEARCH=t:(funny%20girl)%20and%20a:(hornby%20nick)&searchscope=1&SORT=D">Request <i>Funny Girl </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXd1xsAVUlBbAlOgpSkpuL8GZeynfhZtiqpN8fbmrpNm-BXas135MkvBp0KUpQUayVAu6l_pWFiU25mUOUxrV7CQkID65SKGYxdH7ZYpW-WPYO78NSKzTTM9ZfbiaDP03W6WqT3EwQNg/s1600/19206032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXd1xsAVUlBbAlOgpSkpuL8GZeynfhZtiqpN8fbmrpNm-BXas135MkvBp0KUpQUayVAu6l_pWFiU25mUOUxrV7CQkID65SKGYxdH7ZYpW-WPYO78NSKzTTM9ZfbiaDP03W6WqT3EwQNg/s1600/19206032.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-53580409882751647272015-02-10T20:48:00.001-05:002015-02-10T20:48:28.260-05:00Staff Recommendation #39: Cassidy Jones and The Secret Formula<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNkInZjPnYtaSgFZ26qS3k9dWovCtF_YXqn5r_gyYn-ac-Tihg_Sn9STm0hgsU9qQVdn5Uh5-7vrMS3u4jLA0dkKThzFI-g0xNc_dpZNO0f2cIkGFXfV5X_hDb581OGIT5dnd4yK1tqRf/s1600/17665478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNkInZjPnYtaSgFZ26qS3k9dWovCtF_YXqn5r_gyYn-ac-Tihg_Sn9STm0hgsU9qQVdn5Uh5-7vrMS3u4jLA0dkKThzFI-g0xNc_dpZNO0f2cIkGFXfV5X_hDb581OGIT5dnd4yK1tqRf/s1600/17665478.jpg" height="320" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Since becoming a librarian I have read more Young Adult novels than I ever thought I would at this point in my life. Luckily, most of them have been good and some have been outstanding. One such book is <i>Cassidy Jones and the Secret Formula</i> by Elise Stokes.<br />
<br />
Several years ago I stumbled upon this book, although now I'm not really sure where I read about it. It was available as a free ebook, so I decided to take a chance. And what a find it was!<br />
<br />
Cassidy Jones is like many other fourteen-year-old girls - she has a loving family that gets on her nerves on occasion, she's mostly ignored in school and has a secret crush on a boy who happens to be one of her twin brother's friends. Oh, and now she has super human strength!<br />
<br />
Cassidy joins her television reporter Dad when he sets off to the lab of world-renowned geneticist, Serena Phillips, for an interview one day after school. Unfortunately, for Cassidy she doesn't leave that lab the same person. After a freak accident, she inhales fumes from several vials that have been knocked over and end up mixing together.<br />
<br />
The next morning Cassidy begins to notice many changes. Her senses and strength have been altered dramatically and soon realizes that she has the speed of a jaguar. She decides to keep her new freakish abilities to herself. To make matters worse, Professor Phillips goes missing!<br />
<br />
Then she meets the professor's enigmatic and brilliant fifteen-year-old son Emery. After confiding in Emery, the duo are determined to find Emery's mother which puts them both in danger.<br />
<br />
I found Cassidy Jones to be a believable and relatable character even for someone, like me, who hasn't been a teen in a very long time. Cassidy is at an age where so many things are happening in her life and now she has the added burden of super human strength. These new abilities scare her and she behaves as many teenagers would - she keeps it to herself. She doesn't even tell her best friend. Instead she turns to a steady and reliable new friend. It's refreshing to see an author have a boy and a girl be real friends and not automatically turn it romantic.<br />
<br />
This is really a story about how a young woman learns to deal with the unexplained changes in her life and the new friend who is helping her through this tough time. Ms. Stokes has given us a young woman who could be a great motivator for anyone, let alone other teens. Cassidy learns that she has courage and integrity. She also learns to rely on herself, but to also lean on others when she needs to.<br />
<br />
More than anything, this book, and the continuing series, are just a lot of fun to read. So, if you'd like to check out a young adult book that isn't <i>Twilight</i>, <i>The Hunger Games</i> or <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i>, then be sure to read <i>Cassidy Jones and the Secret Formula</i>. You won't be sorry!<br />
<br />
<br />
The Series:<br />
<br />
-- <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S176/?searchtype=t&searcharg=cassidy+jones+and+the+secret+formula&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tcassidy+jones+and+the+secret+formula" target="_blank">Cassidy Jones and the Secret Formula</a></i><br />
<br />
-- <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=cassidy+jones+and+vulcan%27s+gift&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tcassidy+jones+and+the+secret+formula" target="_blank">Cassidy Jones and Vulcan's Gift</a></i><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=cassidy+jones+and+the+seventh+attendant&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tcassidy+jones+and+vulcan%27s+gift" target="_blank">Cassidy Jones and the Seventh Attendant</a><br />
<br />
-- <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=cassidy+jones+and+the+luminous&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tcassidy+jones+and+the+seventh+attendant" target="_blank">Cassidy Jones and the Luminous</a></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r3yNIs4s44A?rel=0" width="420"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-67127013375592878532015-02-06T12:21:00.002-05:002015-02-06T12:21:58.113-05:00Readalikes: "The Hunger Games"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkII3wI-0f66DqeS3pflSXPcqQoojBQEYQjZcKRowknPzsBOGvqGZteepl_URnZPXNsoF9sOSOG96MDtCww3p4jWQHDtqiKNoevjEBA_7SoZNd7cEpJj7NmngB7S9f3iho7yAiq4rxfo/s1600/final-poster-katniss-mockingjay-copy-the-hunger-games-movies-might-not-be-over-after-mockingjay-part-2-wait-what.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkII3wI-0f66DqeS3pflSXPcqQoojBQEYQjZcKRowknPzsBOGvqGZteepl_URnZPXNsoF9sOSOG96MDtCww3p4jWQHDtqiKNoevjEBA_7SoZNd7cEpJj7NmngB7S9f3iho7yAiq4rxfo/s1600/final-poster-katniss-mockingjay-copy-the-hunger-games-movies-might-not-be-over-after-mockingjay-part-2-wait-what.jpeg" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When fans of the popular YA dystopian trilogy <i>The Hunger Games </i>come to the library, they're often looking for a similar read. Since the bookshelves of libraries (and bookstores) are swimming with a vast array of dystopian fiction for the choosing, I usually try to narrow it down a bit by asking what it is, precisely, the reader liked about <i>The Hunger Games. </i>The action? The politics? The strong leading character?<br />
<br />
Everyone's answer is different, of course. But one answer many fans give is that they like the Games themselves. Or, perhaps, not precisely the games -- but the rites of passages, and subsequent choices, that lead the characters into them.<br />
<br />
<i>The Hunger Games </i>is not the only story to show a dystopian society's rite of passage lead to unintended consequences -- not only for the main characters, but for the worlds they inhabit. Here are three more to try:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Uglies </i>- Scott Westerfeld</b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqko52U-X4NyxWJ5UGSPwBT1DVLRBUoNpxmwKih4tiouPE_Af6eV8QShyW_RhZn8BJKz2x-n_uMLMwaGIRSOuduroib7peSBKy9ltGjdZCp6sQRiUFpOoSzAaxMOiBSuM55UP_Ki7xg0/s1600/ugliesUK2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqko52U-X4NyxWJ5UGSPwBT1DVLRBUoNpxmwKih4tiouPE_Af6eV8QShyW_RhZn8BJKz2x-n_uMLMwaGIRSOuduroib7peSBKy9ltGjdZCp6sQRiUFpOoSzAaxMOiBSuM55UP_Ki7xg0/s1600/ugliesUK2012.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Tally Youngblood's sixteenth birthday is approaching, and she couldn't be more excited. Her whole life, she's been living with the "Uglies," the slang name given to the city's children. But once you hit sixteen, you get to become a "Pretty," undergoing a surgical procedure that transforms your appearance into one of beautiful perfection. She'll get to leave behind her old life and take up residence in Prettytown, where she'll be beautiful, popular, and able to fill her days with clothes, parties, and unending fun.<br />
<br />
But then she meets Shay, a fellow Ugly who doesn't seem to understand how great being a Pretty will be. Much to Tally's surprise, Shay's planning to run away to escape her surgery. Shay, it turns out, has a suspicion that there's a price to pay to become a Pretty. And she thinks the people of the Smoke -- a group of protestors who have rejected the Pretty life -- may have the answer.<br />
<br />
Tally won't go with her, but she wishes Shay the best -- at least until the governmental department of Special Circumstances step in and offer Tally a choice. They know about the Smoke, and they want to put an end to it. So if Tally ever wants to become a Pretty, she has to make a choice: follow Shay to the Smoke and betray her best friend and her new home to the authorities, or remain an Ugly forever.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1135312458"></span>Request <i>Uglies </i>from the Catalog<span id="goog_1135312459"></span></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Atlantia</i> - Ally Condie</b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZ9fy1Xlo0eLr17wMpIliIH_JIYM8gbH2ZlBKg4tj72iLQ0VdeMTm0O3pzMwsqDGFEJgN1lYXxifiqHgdpGfjJR2-Gb1SWjdhYD-XIzGIy1UTe4I4w13auzcebR_dea9wdlJlWYt-qk/s1600/2236-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZ9fy1Xlo0eLr17wMpIliIH_JIYM8gbH2ZlBKg4tj72iLQ0VdeMTm0O3pzMwsqDGFEJgN1lYXxifiqHgdpGfjJR2-Gb1SWjdhYD-XIzGIy1UTe4I4w13auzcebR_dea9wdlJlWYt-qk/s1600/2236-1.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Author Ally Condie is primarily known for her dystopian-esque trilogy <i>Matched. </i>But I liked this one better -- a standalone novel that tells the story of Rio, who has grown up alongside her twin sister, Bay, in the underwater city of Atlantia. Rio's always dreamed of leaving her world beneath the waves behind, and it looks like her chance has finally come. But when her sister uses their coming-of-age ceremony to escape the Below, she leaves Rio trapped in Atlantia -- with no way out.<br />
<br />
Rio, already reeling from her mother's death several months before, now finds herself betrayed and alone in the Below. But then, Rio's used to being alone: she's had to hide her secret all her life. Rio is a siren, and if anyone were to discover her powers, everything would change. <br />
<br />
Forming unexpected alliances with True, who also lost his best friend to the Above, Rio is determined to find a way to the surface. But then her mother's sister, Maire, shares secrets of Atlantia with Rio that she never could have expected -- and suddenly, it's not just Rio and Bay whose lives are at stake, but rather the whole of Atlantia.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1208232670"></span>Request <i>Atlantia </i>from the Catalog<span id="goog_1208232671"></span></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Divergent</i> - Veronica Roth</b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4exQitM63wcT1lYHE7moBrJ-P9S5WCSSm0BYC1CaBC22gSGfdHpVV44AcHXBRGDodRfl1TOCqdkc1Pc1CloYw4hbcv7Qc-96-NXKCk_PzEGlG0wZNQw7eryMBlurMh-mvOAJ5_Wuylk/s1600/Divergent_ho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4exQitM63wcT1lYHE7moBrJ-P9S5WCSSm0BYC1CaBC22gSGfdHpVV44AcHXBRGDodRfl1TOCqdkc1Pc1CloYw4hbcv7Qc-96-NXKCk_PzEGlG0wZNQw7eryMBlurMh-mvOAJ5_Wuylk/s1600/Divergent_ho.jpg" height="320" width="219" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), Erudite (the intelligent), Abnegation (the selfless), and Candor (the honest). You'll forgive me if the Factions of Tris's world put me just slightly in mind of the different Hogwarts Houses from the world of Harry Potter.<br />
<br />
Tris's city is divided up into these five Factions. She's grown up in Abnegation, but it's never been the Faction for her; she knows she can never be selfless enough to be happy there. Like Hogwarts, Tris and her fellow students must undergo something of a test to see which Faction they would be best suited to be in -- but despite what the test results show, the choice still remains in each students' hands. And so Tris does not let her (eerily inconclusive) test results stop her from choosing the people she's always wanted to be with: the Dauntless.<br />
<br />
But the world of the Dauntless is not always what Tris expected. Bravery here seems to be defined as recklessness more than true courage, and Tris finds herself testing her loyalties to herself and her friends, as well as the world she's grown up in. It doesn't help that Tris carries a secret: she's not really Dauntless nor Abengation, but rather something else entirely: <i>Divergent. </i>But when she uncovers a secret about the very fabric of her society, Tris finds herself drawn into something she's not sure she'll ever be able to find her way out of.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tdivergent/tdivergent/1%2C24%2C52%2CB/frameset&FF=tdivergent&2%2C%2C13">Request <i>Divergent </i>from the Catalog</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-47574367697768133842015-02-03T19:25:00.001-05:002015-02-03T19:25:26.507-05:00February Library Reads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswX5b_QZgBlS8Yjgk-GiavB6-YKDFqyul4qbG6xzuI6fgvKhAjLDSmVSfEZreJUWtPUgg8sN-RrxLG2xWnTAKcCwYRSNBlWnRDegcHDrz0aQ7z2FNpfBHOC1G_4qrrS3pOXNIUCthcMGk/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_FEBRUARY2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswX5b_QZgBlS8Yjgk-GiavB6-YKDFqyul4qbG6xzuI6fgvKhAjLDSmVSfEZreJUWtPUgg8sN-RrxLG2xWnTAKcCwYRSNBlWnRDegcHDrz0aQ7z2FNpfBHOC1G_4qrrS3pOXNIUCthcMGk/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_FEBRUARY2015.jpg" height="50" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's time for some more reading suggestions from the <a href="http://libraryreads.org/" target="_blank">February Library Reads</a> list. Be sure to get your name on the waiting list for these new titles!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fx5AfLcyUvrcC-yiFpnUJPrxvuVyNHqOdSQxv98GNu3-C97r7OO9nErL1kIS0uSPO5AKpLbH9EFGcRyEL1-92zGH7V84wMppsCZTWqqi7yaX2_PQIhc1eT8n9OT5TEjie9m6jvpUnnnt/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-31+at+3.22.18+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fx5AfLcyUvrcC-yiFpnUJPrxvuVyNHqOdSQxv98GNu3-C97r7OO9nErL1kIS0uSPO5AKpLbH9EFGcRyEL1-92zGH7V84wMppsCZTWqqi7yaX2_PQIhc1eT8n9OT5TEjie9m6jvpUnnnt/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-31+at+3.22.18+PM.png" /></a></div>
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=spool+of+blue+thread&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search" target="_blank"><b>A Spool of Blue Thread: A Novel</b></a><br />
by Anne Tyler<br />
<br />
<br />
“In this book, we come to know three generations of Whitshanks–a family with secrets and memories that are sometimes different than what others observe. The book’s timeline moves back and forth with overlapping stories, just like thread on a spool. Most readers will find themselves in the story. Once again, Tyler has written an enchanting tale.”<br />
<br />
Catherine Coyne, Mansfield Public Library, Mansfield, MA<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWoiLa_8K1grtWIk6eUmBtulXTdy0DYieztXCTLRkzKUC2nbaSW5jT2Ynd6lRV8C56bjjE3x9cSx6FvQTBtE3SNpaDzOTUgJ7zlOlzmeE0U6Nf5XnEAGDSWI_qvWbDOcVjGYi5Nz7DMqXM/s1600/MySunshineAway-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWoiLa_8K1grtWIk6eUmBtulXTdy0DYieztXCTLRkzKUC2nbaSW5jT2Ynd6lRV8C56bjjE3x9cSx6FvQTBtE3SNpaDzOTUgJ7zlOlzmeE0U6Nf5XnEAGDSWI_qvWbDOcVjGYi5Nz7DMqXM/s1600/MySunshineAway-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=My+Sunshine+Away&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tstrong+women+and+men" target="_blank"><b>My Sunshine Away</b></a><br />
by M.O. Walsh<br />
<br />
<br />
“A crime against a 15-year-old girl is examined through the eyes of one of her friends–a friend who admits to being a possible suspect in the crime. This is a wonderful debut novel full of suspense, angst, loyalty, deceit, and most of all, love.”<br />
<br />
Alison Nadvornik, Worthington Libraries, Columbus, OH<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLsJ5OdvTnV4xtRYVPy1LLdmQ_Leg2xBfODgvXUcrAVg9Qjklmglr8r7x1Wg2StCyPlrwC3sPT2gARg4deNV_sqegOmBe1mJroRpYzqrdHvp0O_v28uLYURaCfqOxjJypgyGUyGG3qo9n/s1600/DarkerShadeofMagic-199x300-199x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLsJ5OdvTnV4xtRYVPy1LLdmQ_Leg2xBfODgvXUcrAVg9Qjklmglr8r7x1Wg2StCyPlrwC3sPT2gARg4deNV_sqegOmBe1mJroRpYzqrdHvp0O_v28uLYURaCfqOxjJypgyGUyGG3qo9n/s1600/DarkerShadeofMagic-199x300-199x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Darker+Shade+of+Magic&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tMy+Sunshine+Away" target="_blank"><b>A Darker Shade of Magic</b></a><br />
by V. E. Schwab<br />
<br />
<br />
“Fantasy fans should enjoy this atmospheric novel, where London is the link between parallel universes, and magician Kell is one of two Travelers who can move between them. Now something sinister is disturbing their equilibrium, and Kell must try to unravel the plot with only feisty street thief Delilah Bard as an ally.”<br />
<br />
Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcXP9-V4LlodA-G9qrYboWV6qWIArB3PDJD_XA15yJzx_1RzSobRBy7ZXsHImXYj9h2KxOO3Hw4qRG5KC2BGFp9ahfwxKrzR8QD1WxIucpVX3gzJsJbesU_Wj1TPo8UJeiAAb3Qu0s7kA/s1600/MurderofMagpies-198x300-198x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcXP9-V4LlodA-G9qrYboWV6qWIArB3PDJD_XA15yJzx_1RzSobRBy7ZXsHImXYj9h2KxOO3Hw4qRG5KC2BGFp9ahfwxKrzR8QD1WxIucpVX3gzJsJbesU_Wj1TPo8UJeiAAb3Qu0s7kA/s1600/MurderofMagpies-198x300-198x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Murder+of+Magpies&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tDarker+Shade+of+Magic" target="_blank"><b>A Murder of Magpies</b></a><br />
by Judith Flanders<br />
<br />
<br />
“Loved this mystery! The acerbic narrator is 40-year-old British book publishing editor Samantha, whose best author goes missing after writing a tell-all book about a famous French fashion designer who died under suspicious circumstances. Very funny, and great secondary characters as well.”<br />
<br />
Ann-Marie Anderson, Tigard Public Library, Tigard, OR<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqeGj5C7mjqnhCdUaJAMQ74b3r0tlfB8eh8Fd3kxLxwQAcrCBOcmov3nK4raOFhPNZB3rNUzUmVhmdOjfjzMy1rLmlaZElEbrQ89u35M2b_H7H_DNvbxOIR5kPM-llgaMXxMEDBfDT04HB/s1600/DreamingSpies-203x300-203x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqeGj5C7mjqnhCdUaJAMQ74b3r0tlfB8eh8Fd3kxLxwQAcrCBOcmov3nK4raOFhPNZB3rNUzUmVhmdOjfjzMy1rLmlaZElEbrQ89u35M2b_H7H_DNvbxOIR5kPM-llgaMXxMEDBfDT04HB/s1600/DreamingSpies-203x300-203x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Dreaming+Spies&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tMurder+of+Magpies" target="_blank"><b>Dreaming Spies: A Novel of Suspense Featuring Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes</b></a><br />
by Laurie R. King<br />
<br />
<br />
“Considering that King is one of the finest mystery authors writing today, it’s no surprise that the latest in the Russell/Holmes series is an engaging read. Intrigue follows the duo as they board a liner bound for Japan and meet up with a known blackmailer and a young Japanese woman who is not all that she seems. Great historical research and rich atmosphere!”<br />
<br />
Paulette Brooks, Elm Grove Public Library, Elm Grove, WI<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i><br />
<br />Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-57261782843171408512015-01-29T16:58:00.001-05:002015-02-05T10:44:11.289-05:00Dream Come True: Australia Day, Part 2<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXXDBW5jFMxSZ_GZxXueu2em1e2TAD9Fzdy1B-3LkHvEMfSUKZJPLqPbzcMQzGtDZ5q8nr57_fD7MRzn9pEx7W3hvIeAwjL0nB5hh1ACjc9aAo023Ms3nT8fkBsoS3IqTmzUGx4X9sJAc/s1600/DSC00170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXXDBW5jFMxSZ_GZxXueu2em1e2TAD9Fzdy1B-3LkHvEMfSUKZJPLqPbzcMQzGtDZ5q8nr57_fD7MRzn9pEx7W3hvIeAwjL0nB5hh1ACjc9aAo023Ms3nT8fkBsoS3IqTmzUGx4X9sJAc/s1600/DSC00170.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sydney Opera House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since I was a teenager I had dreamed of visiting Australia. I longed to see the Sydney Opera House, spend time in the Outback and marvel at the Great Barrier Reef. It's hard to say when this dream actually started, but I think the seed was planted when I was about 13 and I got a small, stuffed koala as a present. A small collection soon followed.<br />
<br />
Then in my late teens I saw this film that really set the dream in motion. <i>The Man From Snowy River</i> (1982) is a classic Australian film set in the mountains and flatlands of southeastern Australia in the late 19th century. It tells the story of a young man who becomes a part of a search for a wild horse. Why did a western from Australia make me want to go there? I have no idea, but it did lead me to watch other Australian films which led me, more and more, to wanting to visit this beautiful country.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkF75lcMf2OXB4FyhNqLO4U5J5hku-wDg14pMldo_jqOF4TDqNGtRWadpBUFv4O_nxRKbTojiYP8uVyXRfazqZRY4DFnlalF81RzvMqEOwCH1IerNDVHD3Rm__KX5auhahdNJ1SxPUOBC8/s1600/Man-From-Snowy-River-aus-dvd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkF75lcMf2OXB4FyhNqLO4U5J5hku-wDg14pMldo_jqOF4TDqNGtRWadpBUFv4O_nxRKbTojiYP8uVyXRfazqZRY4DFnlalF81RzvMqEOwCH1IerNDVHD3Rm__KX5auhahdNJ1SxPUOBC8/s1600/Man-From-Snowy-River-aus-dvd.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Since Australia is so far away I never thought it would happen. I assumed that it would remain a dream. But five years ago I had the opportunity to accompany my husband on a business trip to Australia. My dream was finally going to come true!<br />
<br />
Because of limited time we didn't really stray that far from Sydney. Which meant that I didn't get to see the Outback, the Great Barrier Reef or even the mountains from <i>The Man From Snowy River</i>. But that's o.k, because we still got to see some amazing places. One place in particular has stuck with me. It is now one of my favorite places.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxwbpvm1INiW-q3RFKb9NlCddEs9go0uN_6A9KAcuUMMHGCD8p_glXxrlBsgv4M9Y0-xBnpnbTzmvvbIY6IgbN_82ufrLLYq2aVDzJ49me0x5XsZXmIn1ryRESkUrq-g768b6Q4igpQHa/s1600/DSC00248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxwbpvm1INiW-q3RFKb9NlCddEs9go0uN_6A9KAcuUMMHGCD8p_glXxrlBsgv4M9Y0-xBnpnbTzmvvbIY6IgbN_82ufrLLYq2aVDzJ49me0x5XsZXmIn1ryRESkUrq-g768b6Q4igpQHa/s1600/DSC00248.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Blue Mountains</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That place is about a two hour drive west of Sydney near a town called Katoomba - The Blue Mountains National Park. This very popular national park is a part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area due to its many and varied examples of plant life which still produces great scientific discoveries. All I know, is that this was one of the most amazing sights I've ever seen in my life.<br />
<br />
The Blue Mountains are technically a sandstone tableland and not mountains, but they still provide very challenging hiking trails nonetheless. My husband and I attempted one of these trails. I really enjoy being in the great outdoors but I am very far from being an outdoorswoman, but I knew that I had to do this.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oR6vTv7BqPUJNsYlTsI9TswMrhZ9GXyAy1LMBx26fC6VWW3-OItFFK5M-XSezLdkbRoLP8fPMzGiRwLMjFJKvCs4TaPRcxiWVnqXIcMAPlw6xP_RMWF9ORCcoS4lqXH98sAZEo1gog3z/s1600/DSC00264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oR6vTv7BqPUJNsYlTsI9TswMrhZ9GXyAy1LMBx26fC6VWW3-OItFFK5M-XSezLdkbRoLP8fPMzGiRwLMjFJKvCs4TaPRcxiWVnqXIcMAPlw6xP_RMWF9ORCcoS4lqXH98sAZEo1gog3z/s1600/DSC00264.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Three Sisters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our hike started in the early morning at the Echo Point Lookout which provides the best view of The Three Sisters (above). One Aboriginal legend has it that these three pillars are three sisters from one tribe who fell in love with three brothers from another tribe that they were not allowed to marry. The brothers went to war over the sisters. An elder from the sisters' tribe turned the sisters to stone to protect them planning on reversing it when the war was over. Sadly, the elder was killed in battle and the sisters remained as stone pillars.<br />
<br />
After a short climb down to the Three Sisters the difficult part began. We climbed down 872 steps and 1,000 feet to get to the valley. It was very steep in places and my left leg was incredibly sore the next day. But it was worth every step to see the view on the way down and the forest and the valley floor when we got to the bottom.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu473jB_ET_quqc6uwx6_BwdlfxQGCKSyx5v4ZcOnachMFjHql8Rb1_aNaIJxiV7E3-pJ37s0rEy_TXYH5Ec5hP-ixFNN_KpaTXXJ16HxUCPpkbN0lMr6lsLpExnALjPMswHwZXLZ9KmfY/s1600/DSC00268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu473jB_ET_quqc6uwx6_BwdlfxQGCKSyx5v4ZcOnachMFjHql8Rb1_aNaIJxiV7E3-pJ37s0rEy_TXYH5Ec5hP-ixFNN_KpaTXXJ16HxUCPpkbN0lMr6lsLpExnALjPMswHwZXLZ9KmfY/s1600/DSC00268.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ascending just a few of the 872 steps!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The walk across the valley was breathtaking. We saw such wonderful and unique trees and flowers. After walking 2.5 kilometres we were able to take a cable car back to the top. But the most interesting way to get to the bottom was the Katoomba Scenic Railway, originally built to haul coal out of the valley in the 1880s. So we decided to ride it down and then back up again. On the way down they played the Indiana Jones theme!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2KlUcjBWXmQn6luVb_hVuskXtVX-zlVEyDXDX0a7knZYV6AbiSZq4mfP8aaLZ6WbA26SDc8lRnUHO9mMBBvwKAg3me66t3XdcIA6yGFhAE4HfhQsvEtjb7_aKdscCn4MayH7R4Y_itXV/s1600/DSC00299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2KlUcjBWXmQn6luVb_hVuskXtVX-zlVEyDXDX0a7knZYV6AbiSZq4mfP8aaLZ6WbA26SDc8lRnUHO9mMBBvwKAg3me66t3XdcIA6yGFhAE4HfhQsvEtjb7_aKdscCn4MayH7R4Y_itXV/s1600/DSC00299.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katoomba Scenic Railway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I did get to experience one of my dreams on this trip. While visitors are no longer allowed to hold koalas they do allow visitors to touch and pet them. I was almost in tears when I touched this koala hanging out on his perch and munching on eucalyptus leaves. It is a prized memory.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQhgd9PCj9XqNtIIuq-5WqI8w5pURPXKZ07WIr5hTDrRYDVcjDB2e864xBsTgFfWGuOG6GZCvVYSAy-4lc-qjn2JBoF9859S1rSJIF4MPIqP02AllfTIMeffR5GgaA2bdouHBMc5iqi9d/s1600/4392_1155261646123_3470821_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQhgd9PCj9XqNtIIuq-5WqI8w5pURPXKZ07WIr5hTDrRYDVcjDB2e864xBsTgFfWGuOG6GZCvVYSAy-4lc-qjn2JBoF9859S1rSJIF4MPIqP02AllfTIMeffR5GgaA2bdouHBMc5iqi9d/s1600/4392_1155261646123_3470821_n+(1).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Our other stops included The Barrington Tops National Park which includes a temperate rainforest, a ride on a train on the Zig Zag Railway, and a boat ride across Sydney Harbour to Manly Beach.<br />
<br />
While I didn't get to see as many places as Ms. B did, I loved everything that I saw and every moment spent in this beautiful and amazing country!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7FsuG-f_K1kLRXdun6a7g_1YNsZqjV9XeBCG848L9sz_RoMyWSAw2jLaWHrI8xz3lIk6JGObdweQUKkqkignmkxJ-PnP3CeuaGeEUQHTgftp_H6-WmXP3DcH1itmFTuTCA9hhYBxdNCX/s1600/4392_1155263806177_2645600_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7FsuG-f_K1kLRXdun6a7g_1YNsZqjV9XeBCG848L9sz_RoMyWSAw2jLaWHrI8xz3lIk6JGObdweQUKkqkignmkxJ-PnP3CeuaGeEUQHTgftp_H6-WmXP3DcH1itmFTuTCA9hhYBxdNCX/s1600/4392_1155263806177_2645600_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't forget to watch for kangaroos or koalas crossing the road!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i><b>From the Catalog:</b></i><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tman+from+snowy+river/tman+from+snowy+river/1%2C4%2C14%2CB/limit" target="_blank">The Man From Snowy River</a> [DVD] - the film that set the dream in motion!<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tman+from+snowy+river/tman+from+snowy+river/1%2C4%2C14%2CB/frameset&FF=tman+from+snowy+river+and+other+verses+australias+best+loved+poetry+collection&1%2C1%2C" target="_blank">The Man From Snowy River & Other Verses</a> by A.B. Peterson - the poem that the film was based on.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tstrictly+ballroom/tstrictly+ballroom/1%2C3%2C8%2CB/frameset&FF=tstrictly+ballroom+motion+picture&2%2C%2C3/indexsort=-" target="_blank">Strictly Ballroom</a> [DVD] - a hilarious look at an Australian ballroom champ who wants to break all the rules of dancing while his family desperately tries to stop him.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tBreaker+Morant+/tbreaker+morant/1%2C2%2C5%2CB/exact&FF=tbreaker+morant+motion+picture&1%2C2%2C/indexsort=-" target="_blank">Breaker Morant</a> [DVD] - Three Australian lieutenants are court martialed for executing prisoners as a way of deflecting attention from war crimes committed by their superior officers.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tmuriel%27s+wedding/tmuriels+wedding/1%2C1%2C2%2CB/frameset&FF=tmuriels+wedding&2%2C%2C2/indexsort=-" target="_blank">Muriel's Wedding</a> [DVD] - Muriel longs for the big city life of Sydney in this Australian comedy.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/taustralia/taustralia;M=h/1%2C46%2C0%2CB/frameset&FF=taustralia;M=h&9%2C46%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">Australia</a> [DVD] - Baz Luhrmann's epic about an Australian ranch during World War II.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>From the Web: </b></i><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/artful-amoeba/2012/06/30/the-lost-valley-of-the-wollemi-pine/" target="_blank">The Lost Valley of the Wollemi Pine</a> [Scientific American] - a 2012 article about the discovery of a species of tree thought long extinct found in the Blue Mountains.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/australia-put-evolution-darwins-mind-180953651/" target="_blank">How Australia Put Evolution on Darwin’s Mind</a> [Smithsonian Magazine] - a 2015 article about Charles Darwin's little known trip to the Blue Mountains in 1836.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/Blue-Mountains-National-Park" target="_blank">The Blue Mountains National Park</a> - official page of the park.<br />
<br />
<br />
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-24150537867287117522015-01-27T17:52:00.000-05:002015-01-27T18:27:52.294-05:00Terror Incognita: Australia Day, Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>January 26th is Australia Day, the official national holiday of Australia. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>We celebrate the day with a two-part entry on this weird, wild, and wholly unique country:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUpBRrGpxlxw319nmssc0MnCXegujFVtmizP6B90GEbiO9D5ZSOvOUhUbyMvUsoRedBnR13vLO76A6b4NGw3viHI6uVujgHfADhlnxqoQUTh_alM28dxkDDRd1MnPilKe5ighj86HXFY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.54.25+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUpBRrGpxlxw319nmssc0MnCXegujFVtmizP6B90GEbiO9D5ZSOvOUhUbyMvUsoRedBnR13vLO76A6b4NGw3viHI6uVujgHfADhlnxqoQUTh_alM28dxkDDRd1MnPilKe5ighj86HXFY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.54.25+PM.png" height="186" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Sunrise in the Outback</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Taipan snakes. Funnel web spiders. Redbacks. Great white sharks. Saltwater crocodiles. Bluebottles. Box jellyfish. Cone shells. Cassowaries. Blue-ringed octopuses. Coffin rays. Stonefishes.<br />
<br />
That's a small, utterly non-comprehensive list of all the things in Australia that are venomous, poisonous, or otherwise capable of causing extreme bodily harm to a human who ventures just a little too close. And that is, of course, only considering the animals; I've left off such things as floods, hurricane, cyclones, temperatures so hot they can literally cook a person alive -- and riptides, which many consider to be a far greater danger than any of the local wildlife.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9LHXbsq9ZAteta_EVb1SxMZ9lkT1y85_s7QmT9ElA-4542WO05viexcPH_fZEojl-GEQ4OIMFi5qC5FiX2rhdWplaeMn252DZRG44f1MwlKXi1CuqR_WjGl6QK-Mi7SZz9hWYkcuWfE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+2.00.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9LHXbsq9ZAteta_EVb1SxMZ9lkT1y85_s7QmT9ElA-4542WO05viexcPH_fZEojl-GEQ4OIMFi5qC5FiX2rhdWplaeMn252DZRG44f1MwlKXi1CuqR_WjGl6QK-Mi7SZz9hWYkcuWfE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+2.00.55+PM.png" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Australia: A Summary</i></div>
<br />
<br />
The point remains: Australia is not for the faint of heart. So imagine my surprise last May, when I found myself signing on for a two-week trip to the Land Down Under. I was, as my friends and family could've all told you, somewhat apprehensive about just what creepy-crawlies (or, y'know, massive crocodiles) I might run into while I was there. But there was undeniable appeal at the chance to go somewhere so utterly unique, so completely unlike anywhere I had ever gone before.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJ1u4liTi0oxLV-JHDB8NBtOlgAZgv2Zllv2ZxMT06df2-DQCXUolhehXNlHeZrdxzHhhpNHf84UYF1Pz3ZcUZoSj61TwDd1gtmrqf_mc-XwF15dXZWO2GFx0VejIly6IxCkFl02-WhU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.28.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJ1u4liTi0oxLV-JHDB8NBtOlgAZgv2Zllv2ZxMT06df2-DQCXUolhehXNlHeZrdxzHhhpNHf84UYF1Pz3ZcUZoSj61TwDd1gtmrqf_mc-XwF15dXZWO2GFx0VejIly6IxCkFl02-WhU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.28.42+PM.png" height="296" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>The Australian Outback</i></div>
<br />
<br />
I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to bounce from place to place in Australia, getting to experience several different locations entirely different from one another. There was Cairns, for instance: a veritable tropical paradise of a city, situated on the northeast coast of the country (or, if you prefer, the northeast coast of the continent, Australia being the only place that can claim the distinction of being both continent and country).<br />
<br />
Cairns is where you go if you'd like to view the Great Barrier Reef, located just off the coast. Exactly how big it is has become a matter of some debate (280,000 square kilometers by one reckoning, 344,000 by another), but by even the shortest of estimates, it stretches the same length as the west coast of the United States. It contains incredible amounts of wildlife: fifteen hundred species of fish, four hundred types of coral, four <i>thousand </i>types of mollusks -- and is said by many to be the largest living thing on earth. (Some argue that, as the reef is composed of three thousand separate reefs, it is not a single entity; that hardly makes it less impressive.) Comprised of trillions of miniature coral polyps, the Great Barrier Reef is centuries old.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPyQ2VdeJ-TfD52o7T85b8hb5aHT_pmouypZsQgdXMAHEvOdejTjBFdvZfG1-1d6lwtRsV_evbEA-gVgWfce2DWLkaIOt72Tor08ZmQRBIgWZa1lTNFSHeLJonEC_Tsq1gpEtlf9JcMes/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.15.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPyQ2VdeJ-TfD52o7T85b8hb5aHT_pmouypZsQgdXMAHEvOdejTjBFdvZfG1-1d6lwtRsV_evbEA-gVgWfce2DWLkaIOt72Tor08ZmQRBIgWZa1lTNFSHeLJonEC_Tsq1gpEtlf9JcMes/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.15.11+PM.png" height="400" width="302" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Saltwater crocodiles at the Marineland Melanesia </i><i>Park </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>on Green Island -- off the coast of Cairns, Queensland</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Then there was Sydney, Australia's most famous city (despite the fact that Melbourne is swiftly gaining popularity and may soon overtake Sydney's population numbers -- and that the actual capital of the country of Australia is Canberra). It has the <a href="http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/the_building.aspx">Sydney Opera House</a>, Australia's most famous bit of architecture. There's also the Harbour Bridge, which our guide informed us many tourists will pay hundreds of dollars to <a href="http://www.bridgeclimb.com/">climb across the top of</a> (because, I was forced to assume, there are actually tourists who do not find Australia hazardous enough to begin with).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bTfBFfrlaBXtfjn7_fRc0QdtvpJEVKLBEq7PPto1ztZHiiBQxgA3g4q1vE6pMlhpwoQclk60mqjtoratq53EPDcaesxnY1jPQxj0ZDuZW2vWIAdYVDWVKKcUYi1F64hh7SxP9r9Qvw4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.55.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bTfBFfrlaBXtfjn7_fRc0QdtvpJEVKLBEq7PPto1ztZHiiBQxgA3g4q1vE6pMlhpwoQclk60mqjtoratq53EPDcaesxnY1jPQxj0ZDuZW2vWIAdYVDWVKKcUYi1F64hh7SxP9r9Qvw4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.55.43+PM.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>The 'roos at the petting zoo outside Sydney are </i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>realizing </i><i>I'm </i><i>almost out of treats. </i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>I felt like the little kid in "<a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=lost+world+jurassic+park&SORT=D&searchscope=176&submit=Search">The Lost World</a>" </i><i>when the dinos </i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>find out she doesn't have any more sandwiches for them.</i></div>
<br />
<br />
And then, of course, there's the Australian outback. There are great, vast expanses of outback; in fact, it comprises the majority of the continent. It redefines the concept of "in the middle of nowhere." But despite overwhelmingly high temperatures and the usual assortment of dangerous creepy-crawlies, the outback is undeniably magnificent. And nowhere is this more evident than at Uluru.<br />
<br />
Uluru (the Aboriginal name for Ayers Rock) is a rock formation that's a mile and a half long, five and a half miles around -- and a hundred million years old. It's a type of geological marvel known as a bornhardt: a deposit of weather-resistent rock that's left behind after the wind and rain and water has worn away its surroundings. The thousand-foot-high structure is considered a holy place by the Aboriginal people -- and it's not hard to see why.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhijGDQhWE2170BaUHSFH2wqPJ9Va4tFV4YLol-voZoj1ndOLa9y6YcW6N-25u5AuyKfiRIy1E500rJkZvWfnf6gUU972Nwr9zKdTUacvEYrQvyL2rZebMQhg_heo5tf5Lq3OYfrHBDc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.58.33+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhijGDQhWE2170BaUHSFH2wqPJ9Va4tFV4YLol-voZoj1ndOLa9y6YcW6N-25u5AuyKfiRIy1E500rJkZvWfnf6gUU972Nwr9zKdTUacvEYrQvyL2rZebMQhg_heo5tf5Lq3OYfrHBDc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+4.58.33+PM.png" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Uluru</i></div>
<br />
So, yes: it's wild and massive and even, perhaps, at times, a bit terrifying. But Australia remains a truly fascinating place.<br />
<br />
Just be sure to check the sheets for spiders before you go to sleep. I know I did.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TaE4nPmX-r6A-oiRgWnNuG5CGjCnlAf13hl__HKsKRQrsqVMSBuLythdxni_k62PrBl-Yh-SK21RaDFSzj_Oky3aDrFpg_9RjE-Qki0K-yo24Xuwzct_s8huZf0J4ZjH5uvMg6a4vLk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+5.34.19+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TaE4nPmX-r6A-oiRgWnNuG5CGjCnlAf13hl__HKsKRQrsqVMSBuLythdxni_k62PrBl-Yh-SK21RaDFSzj_Oky3aDrFpg_9RjE-Qki0K-yo24Xuwzct_s8huZf0J4ZjH5uvMg6a4vLk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-27+at+5.34.19+PM.png" height="309" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And, hey: not all of the animals are scary.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
-- From Terry Pratchett's <i><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tlast+continent/tlast+continent/1%2C3%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=tlast+continent+a+discworld+novel&1%2C1%2C">The Last Continent</a>:</i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"I want," he said, "A book about the dangerous creatures of [Australia] --"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"Hmm …" He picked up a book at random and read the cover. "'Dangerous Mammals, Reptiles, Amphibians, Birds, Fish, Jellyfish, Insects, Spiders, Crustaceans, Grasses, Trees, Mosses, and Lichens of Terror Incognita'," he read. His gaze moved down the spine. "Volume 29C," he added. "Oh. Part Three, I see."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>He glanced up at the shelves. "Possibly it would be simpler if I asked for a list of the harmless creatures of the aforesaid continent?"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Something white [came] zigzagging lazily through the air. Finally he reached up and caught the single sheet of paper.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>He read it carefully and then turned it over briefly just in case anything was written on the other side.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"'Some of the sheep,'" he read aloud. "Oh, well. Maybe a week at the seaside'd be better, then."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNMWmGDMJPe3Fvrf2G2jOMkcBY9I1RA2PC6ZKcWxpBtngt6JUBircRJDai1XsbSxo5OGvEHvBqmsCbTmX2z-fwe-wd7YSqKePM8ITXd-vJtZJMV73w06yMRYQw0D0kTDfurItyt5_oP8/s1600/SDC12141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNMWmGDMJPe3Fvrf2G2jOMkcBY9I1RA2PC6ZKcWxpBtngt6JUBircRJDai1XsbSxo5OGvEHvBqmsCbTmX2z-fwe-wd7YSqKePM8ITXd-vJtZJMV73w06yMRYQw0D0kTDfurItyt5_oP8/s1600/SDC12141.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Uluru</i></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<b><i>From the Catalog:</i></b><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tlast+continent/tlast+continent/1%2C3%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=tlast+continent+a+discworld+novel&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">The Last Continent</a> - a satirical novel by Terry Pratchett<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=in+a+sunburned+country&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tlast+continent">In a Sunburned Country</a> - A hilarious, and highly informative, Australian travel guide by Bill Bryson<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tcrocodile+hunter/tcrocodile+hunter/1%2C11%2C22%2CB/frameset&FF=tcrocodile+hunters+croc+files+television+program&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">Crocodile Hunter's Croc Files</a> [DVD] - Host Steve Irwin takes viewers on an informative tour on the wildlife of Australia<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/trescuers+down+under/trescuers+down+under/1%2C2%2C14%2CB/exact&FF=trescuers+down+under+motion+picture&1%2C2%2C/indexsort=-">The Rescuers Down Under</a> [DVD] - An animated film set in the Australian outback<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-76578682505358542642015-01-22T17:23:00.001-05:002015-01-22T17:23:11.167-05:00National Peanut Butter Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuomNsXvgLl-b2r2FIQEyvXu3f12Pq76T1qsGRT_2U7HB39OUlAedxpQmp10W428yOvKFoqHh8KxU_ddVJBJindBLjdq4zQIqy1Yeb6ORiv-NKeHyM1AHpBy8ywyU8CaX-gpmUk8Z7-sLp/s1600/o-PEANUT-BUTTER-facebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuomNsXvgLl-b2r2FIQEyvXu3f12Pq76T1qsGRT_2U7HB39OUlAedxpQmp10W428yOvKFoqHh8KxU_ddVJBJindBLjdq4zQIqy1Yeb6ORiv-NKeHyM1AHpBy8ywyU8CaX-gpmUk8Z7-sLp/s1600/o-PEANUT-BUTTER-facebook.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Whether you prefer crunchy or creamy, on toast, with jelly or eating it straight out of the jar, peanut butter is one of America's favorite foods. More than 3 pounds per person is consumed in the U.S. every year - that's enough to cover the floor of the Grand Canyon!<br />
<br />
The very first peanut butter was created 3,000 years ago when peanut growers combined it with cocoa. The Spanish took the peanut back to Europe in the 1500s and it spread around the world after that.<br />
<br />
Modern peanut butter can trace it's beginning to 1890 when a St. Louis physician wanted to find a way to find a way for his elderly patients to eat peanuts because of their high protein count. He turned to a food processor who whipped up some barrels of peanut butter. By the early 20th century there were a few manufacturers of peanut butter, but it still faced one problem - it spoiled easily. In 1922 Joseph L. Rosefield patented a process to keep it fresh longer. The brands we know today, Skippy, Jif and Peter Pan, all had their start then.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0bP_zDoHQP0xWmRITpWHwhr1GJL6WtAqkd0AxTAZe5cxgj3jttL4nxyZnm1he_3YG416QBgiW_uavPT7U5PePpmHA9FsNPSuepW_frWkaNG8gfqbEo9V3Z1FwERRBMfH8-MHgx35U5Py/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-22+at+11.01.29+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0bP_zDoHQP0xWmRITpWHwhr1GJL6WtAqkd0AxTAZe5cxgj3jttL4nxyZnm1he_3YG416QBgiW_uavPT7U5PePpmHA9FsNPSuepW_frWkaNG8gfqbEo9V3Z1FwERRBMfH8-MHgx35U5Py/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-01-22+at+11.01.29+AM.png" height="222" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To celebrate National Peanut Butter day on January 24th, check out the websites and books relating to all things peanut butter-y!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>From the Catalog:</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Peanut+Butter+Comfort&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tPeanut+Butter+Planet" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Comfort: Recipes for Breakfasts, Brownies, Cakes, Cookies, Candies and Frozen Treats Featuring America's Favorite Sandwich Spread</a> by Averie Sunshine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tPeanut+Butter+Planet/tpeanut+butter+planet/1%2C2%2C2%2CB/frameset&FF=tpeanut+butter+planet+around+the+world+in+++80+recipes+from+starters+to+main+dishes+to+desserts&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Planet: Around the World in 80 Recipes, From Starters to Main Dishes to Desserts</a> by Robin Robertson</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Ultimate+Peanut+Butter+Book&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=t101+Things+to+do+with+Peanut+Butter" target="_blank">The Ultimate Peanut Butter Book: Savory and Sweet, Breakfast to Dessert, Hundreds of Ways to Use America's Favorite Spread</a> by Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=101+Things+to+do+with+Peanut+Butter&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tcreamy+and+crunchy" target="_blank">101 Things to do with Peanut Butter</a> by Pamela Bennett</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=creamy+and+crunchy&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tpeanut+butter+comfort" target="_blank">Creamy & Crunchy: An Informal History of Peanut Butter, The All-American Food</a> by Jon Krampner</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLamXeG1-p-gGIc-Cg8A20cO0cs-Ir79ELdoEn67lA70-CLM3yCob9nELHGr4iAwq8riXUqDPWKh0ikhLVtylf5cj-tRy9GBv7N-QdEwHrCuES3N15QrTp6RdSgNpbAnNy9HlbVGOiBfK/s1600/12367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLamXeG1-p-gGIc-Cg8A20cO0cs-Ir79ELdoEn67lA70-CLM3yCob9nELHGr4iAwq8riXUqDPWKh0ikhLVtylf5cj-tRy9GBv7N-QdEwHrCuES3N15QrTp6RdSgNpbAnNy9HlbVGOiBfK/s1600/12367.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>From the Web:</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://peanutbutterlovers.com/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Lovers</a> - This website includes recipes, nutrition information and fun facts from the Southern Peanut Growers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
--<b> </b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/homemade-peanut-butter-recipe.html" target="_blank">Homemade Peanut Butter Recipe</a> - Food Network's Alton Brown shares his recipe for making your own peanut butter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://startcooking.com/10-ways-to-use-peanut-butter" target="_blank">10 Ways to Use Peanut Butter</a> - This website shares some hints on what to look for when buying peanut butter and also shares different ways to incorporate it into your diet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-- <a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/cookies/classic-peanut-butter-cookies/" target="_blank">Classic Peanut Butter Cookie recipe</a> - This is my go-to recipe from Better Homes and Gardens.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i></div>
Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-21358119657549309282015-01-21T20:45:00.003-05:002015-01-21T20:45:20.964-05:00The Great Experiment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpy_ihBpAPk6rUR4AM6WIE67Uj3pCLatuoyz1emx1DctEk_INiBpAdJfM_9Rimw-B5byn9rlgM_dH9o2EhxfORw_5mn7ea_mvxxigalepANAXFwjJGYm-6QZ9OHOSTCCqq57SA6kDKB6I/s1600/S5702-lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpy_ihBpAPk6rUR4AM6WIE67Uj3pCLatuoyz1emx1DctEk_INiBpAdJfM_9Rimw-B5byn9rlgM_dH9o2EhxfORw_5mn7ea_mvxxigalepANAXFwjJGYm-6QZ9OHOSTCCqq57SA6kDKB6I/s1600/S5702-lg.jpg" height="202" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The date was January 16, 1919, and the Eighteenth Amendment had just become a reality.<br />
<br />
Prohibition -- the Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution -- legally banned the manufacture, transportation, and sale of intoxicating liquors. Often referred to as "The Great Experiment," it had its roots in the previous century, championed by the Anti-Saloon League (an Ohio organization founded in 1893). The League had their work cut out for them: in 1909, there was one saloon for every three hundred Americans. There were more saloons than schools, libraries, hospitals, theaters, parks, or churches. (Location was a factor, however; the city of Chicago had more saloons than the entirety of the South.) Interestingly enough, the Anti-Saloon League consisted of members who, generally speaking, favored progressive politics such as votes for women, an end to monopolies, better working conditions, and immigration aid.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBknAQwrhnqliFHG5VgTV2XQeC83zpRR3lCHeEqjaqIfR820MV0Tb5VzJBqRfhMpRX4bhsgS4Wg7ohEDPA0z1966H0NAQcFDVdHIgRFHRs9snOFo9k93lb-j_GSeUvzL4DPpLEG_ZyxQ/s1600/hm-votedry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBknAQwrhnqliFHG5VgTV2XQeC83zpRR3lCHeEqjaqIfR820MV0Tb5VzJBqRfhMpRX4bhsgS4Wg7ohEDPA0z1966H0NAQcFDVdHIgRFHRs9snOFo9k93lb-j_GSeUvzL4DPpLEG_ZyxQ/s1600/hm-votedry.jpg" height="197" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Before Prohibition, there was the Webb-Kenyon Act, which was passed in February 1913. Overriding a veto from President Taft, the law regulated the transportation of liquor from "wet states" to "dry states" (that is, no transporting liquor from the states that sold it to the states that did not). Four years later, Congress passed the Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution; by January 1919, forty-six of the forty-eight states had ratified the amendment (Rhode Island and Connecticut being the two hold-outs). Despite ratification, however, many states failed to actually adopt state Prohibition, including Pennsylvania (as well as California, Illinois, New York, and others).<br />
<br />
From the beginning, Prohibition had its work cut out. Many large cities outright rejected state or municipal liquor bans. The states where Prohibition proved unpopular often decided that the federal law was a federal matter, and so left the law's enforcement to the federal government. And while Prohibition did not prove costly (about a quarter of what states were spending on their parks department), it had the side effect of cutting funding in its own way -- in 1914, before the Amendment had been passed, one-third of the federal government's revenue came from liquor licenses and taxes on domestic liquor sales.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VlIK1BFAzZav4SfAiBtnySEnmMSXRUK9S_E5G4VXW7aeii3rghBN1KHPuaPVR4nYGwmJ1GoAudo_qrdbjH0vxn0BnUSNRrv9I6AiUjB_677esK8iGQIFFcVEek_xwD3n3Ey78JiVRc0/s1600/anti-prohibition-buttons-P.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VlIK1BFAzZav4SfAiBtnySEnmMSXRUK9S_E5G4VXW7aeii3rghBN1KHPuaPVR4nYGwmJ1GoAudo_qrdbjH0vxn0BnUSNRrv9I6AiUjB_677esK8iGQIFFcVEek_xwD3n3Ey78JiVRc0/s1600/anti-prohibition-buttons-P.jpeg" height="166" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Then, too, were other (unexpected) side effects. Bootlegging, the illegal manufacturing and selling of liquor, became a booming business. As it was also an illegal business, it was organized crime who benefited from bootlegging the most; it's estimated that Chicago's Al Capone earned $60 million a year alone, thanks to the bootlegging operations and speakeasies he controlled. Those living in large cities were generally the most vehement protestors of Prohibition, and law enforcement and politicians alike were bribed there to look the other way. Once the Great Depression took hold, the popularity of Prohibition slipped even further. When Franklin D. Roosevelt ran for presidential office in 1932, his campaign included the repealing of the 18th Amendment. (Roosevelt won the election).<br />
<br />
Ultimately, Prohibition was reversed with the 21st Amendment, proposed and enacted in 1933. The Great Experiment was at an end.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFqUF7ohq9mOHjF2xsXD1WLwWw0LY8cFhaX6JJhl5UPKFbdHnIlBsOfMZ4QIYpdibB_5XSJIEQFV3rGeK9subtAbRELh_05HaWN2yMGJxzkDAblomy3EGKluNZ19GI1U6fioionuwHt8/s1600/fsep_0001_0001_0_img0097.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFqUF7ohq9mOHjF2xsXD1WLwWw0LY8cFhaX6JJhl5UPKFbdHnIlBsOfMZ4QIYpdibB_5XSJIEQFV3rGeK9subtAbRELh_05HaWN2yMGJxzkDAblomy3EGKluNZ19GI1U6fioionuwHt8/s1600/fsep_0001_0001_0_img0097.jpeg" height="320" width="206" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>More on the History of Prohibition:</i></b><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.usconstitutionday.us/p/18th.html">The 18th and 21st Amendments</a> - Complete with scans of the original amendment, newspaper articles, and more.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.history.com/topics/prohibition">Prohibition: Facts and Summary</a> - From the History Channel.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>From the Catalog:</b></i><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S176/?searchtype=t&searcharg=last+call+the+rise+and+fall&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=dprohibition">Last Call: The Rise And Fall of Prohibition</a> by Daniel Okrent.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/dProhibition+--+United+States./dprohibition+united+states/-3%2C-1%2C0%2CB/frameset&FF=dprohibition+united+states&10%2C%2C119/indexsort=r">The Prohibition Hangover: Alcohol in America from Demon Rum to Cult Cabernet</a> by Garrett Peck.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/dProhibition+--+United+States./dprohibition+united+states/-3%2C-1%2C0%2CB/frameset&FF=dprohibition+united+states&3%2C%2C119/indexsort=r">Bootleg: Murder, Moonshine, and the Lawless Years of Prohibition</a> by Karen Blumenthal. <i>For YA readers.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=Y&searcharg=prohibition+ken+burns&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search">Prohibition: A Ken Burns Documentary</a> [DVD]<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>Other Reads (from the Catalog):</i></b><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tdrink/tdrink/1%2C267%2C484%2CB/frameset&FF=tdrink+a+cultural+history+of+alcohol&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">Drink: A Cultural History of Alcohol</a> by Iain Gately.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tdrink/tdrink/51%2C267%2C484%2CB/frameset&FF=tdrink+the+intimate+relationship+between+women+and+alcohol&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=-">Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol</a> by Ann Dowsett Johnston.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=drinking+a+love+story&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search">Drinking: A Love Story</a> by Caroline Knapp<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">--</span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171">Ms. B</a> </span></span></span></span></span>Ms. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828475600006083171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2433029852014768029.post-89096311390109660502015-01-13T18:20:00.000-05:002015-01-13T18:20:13.850-05:00January Library Reads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPingyjziehGTB7uKUZ9RiyGuT2j4Z9rbBgajEltD4oYcK2VKymBk5rl6lUw9TaGOw6cx82r8O9bK_G_WVVZNU_ScTKKTocZCZzWcONT7RdHeZSS-tH5Hro1Lp5t1S4egMURPJ6MnjZse/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_hor.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPingyjziehGTB7uKUZ9RiyGuT2j4Z9rbBgajEltD4oYcK2VKymBk5rl6lUw9TaGOw6cx82r8O9bK_G_WVVZNU_ScTKKTocZCZzWcONT7RdHeZSS-tH5Hro1Lp5t1S4egMURPJ6MnjZse/s1600/LibraryReads_banner1_hor.gif" height="51" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The January Library Reads list is out and here are a few highlights. <a href="http://libraryreads.org/" target="_blank">Click here to see the full list. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOlpH73EtmVR4MjpHVDFzO-pGQG1H4HMJE6pMxZjx6UlFhjivHsVHMUuv3cBb-y7gbNDqIhGxg7Ee453xoQNFkocsl3TioB22EjeO6TlsVYR0hJkR5fEvWko79u6STKUy90-O32_XQ7l8/s1600/AsChimneySweepers-184x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOlpH73EtmVR4MjpHVDFzO-pGQG1H4HMJE6pMxZjx6UlFhjivHsVHMUuv3cBb-y7gbNDqIhGxg7Ee453xoQNFkocsl3TioB22EjeO6TlsVYR0hJkR5fEvWko79u6STKUy90-O32_XQ7l8/s1600/AsChimneySweepers-184x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=As+Chimney+Sweepers+Come+to+Dust%3A&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search" target="_blank">As Chimney Sweepers Come</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=As+Chimney+Sweepers+Come+to+Dust%3A&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search" target="_blank">to Dust: A Flavia de Luce</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search/a?searchtype=t&searcharg=As+Chimney+Sweepers+Come+to+Dust%3A&SORT=D&searchscope=1&submit=Search" target="_blank">Novel</a></b><br />
by Alan Bradley<br />
<br />
<br />
“After the unexpected recovery of her mother’s body brings the de Luce’s family secrets to light, Flavia’s life is turned upside down. Now on her way to a Canadian boarding school, she must survive her first term–and more importantly, uncover the mystery of a corpse found in her dorm room chimney the night she arrives. A delightful installment in the series!”<br />
<br />
Lizzie Gall, Grand Rapids Public Library, Grand Rapids, MI<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6YXsxt10HPwq1jzMXOI6i69NlSw9dN8TJ6m8GlfokwqlxXhYMzVpdTWpmBPWl_7bdGm4gd_pcQDqbRW8ax6llelV_NcaQtQwJKF1QnZUmFLtsbPwcWqe5AVwmpnCKgkz4k7X3GeHwc72/s1600/GirlontheTrain-200x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6YXsxt10HPwq1jzMXOI6i69NlSw9dN8TJ6m8GlfokwqlxXhYMzVpdTWpmBPWl_7bdGm4gd_pcQDqbRW8ax6llelV_NcaQtQwJKF1QnZUmFLtsbPwcWqe5AVwmpnCKgkz4k7X3GeHwc72/s1600/GirlontheTrain-200x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tGirl+on+the+Train/tgirl+on+the+train/1%2C2%2C4%2CB/frameset&FF=tgirl+on+the+train&3%2C%2C3/indexsort=-" target="_blank">The Girl on the Train: A Novel</a></b><br />
by Paula Hawkins<br />
<br />
<br />
“Rachel is a washed-up thirty-something who creates a fantasy about the seemingly perfect couple she sees during her daily train ride into London. When the woman goes missing, Rachel manages to insert herself into the investigation of the woman’s disappearance. In the vein of Gone Girl, this dark psychological thriller is fast-paced and features some very unreliable narrators.”<br />
<br />
Andrea Larson, Cook Memorial Public Library, Libertyville, IL<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tIZ5yle8osRV_jf4eysqCRAbLA5lmPJF9GSbtgXz1butkRtP1lszaDEdVsYxiYNtpXqwtJYxMFaYKFIl11i3XYqIic0dFMSTvf01tgOO1Dc4CpV1ooYHvujtD4WF7o2kSHnZ6FCquBA1/s1600/DressShopofDreams-195x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tIZ5yle8osRV_jf4eysqCRAbLA5lmPJF9GSbtgXz1butkRtP1lszaDEdVsYxiYNtpXqwtJYxMFaYKFIl11i3XYqIic0dFMSTvf01tgOO1Dc4CpV1ooYHvujtD4WF7o2kSHnZ6FCquBA1/s1600/DressShopofDreams-195x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1/?searchtype=t&searcharg=Dress+Shop+of+Dreams&searchscope=1&sortdropdown=-&SORT=D&extended=0&SUBMIT=Search&searchlimits=&searchorigarg=tGirl+on+the+Train" target="_blank">The Dress Shop of Dreams: A Novel</a></b><br />
by Menna van Praag<br />
<br />
<br />
“Tidy, romantic, and fine escapism. All the characters here have interesting back stories: Cora is believable as a no-nonsense gal trying to rebuff sweet Walt’s advances, and Etta is someone I’d like to meet in real life. Reminiscent of Love Actually and P.S. I Love You, this cute little book is recommended to readers who want to be charmed by the possibilities of love.”<br />
<br />
Andrienne Cruz, Azusa City Library, Azusa, CA<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgyovvs7H-Y4hkVrZ1teyR8odWs9qKmQkT-R-3zgMF5c0HT-ZVzpfxeyzkBcME9nEDlYjFHdAQrxmfz0U4HHFS7OWQM_1yPXhIa04VS9o8aUaVZl4wIMk03OnLYnZHdVoaV3HBHIFKajV/s1600/BishopsWife-200x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgyovvs7H-Y4hkVrZ1teyR8odWs9qKmQkT-R-3zgMF5c0HT-ZVzpfxeyzkBcME9nEDlYjFHdAQrxmfz0U4HHFS7OWQM_1yPXhIa04VS9o8aUaVZl4wIMk03OnLYnZHdVoaV3HBHIFKajV/s1600/BishopsWife-200x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tBishop{u2019}s+Wife/tbishops+wife/1%2C7%2C7%2CB/frameset&FF=tbishops+wife&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">The Bishop’s Wife</a></b><br />
by Mette Ivie Harrison<br />
<br />
<br />
“As a practicing Mormon, I felt Harrison did a great job of detailing Mormon culture and doctrine without evangelizing. I appreciated that the bishop is a good man, and the bishop’s wife is a woman who has been through her own struggles. The bishop’s wife sometimes can barely keep up with all the drama and mysteries around her. But she does, and does it quite well under the circumstances. This is a rather brave book.”<br />
<br />
Amanda Monson, Bartow County Library System, Cartersville, GA<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsflT1XU4l_SGkFHwCV7rlN9Rpp8p26WAAI3MWHh8X3pYi8fB38a9EfNAT_EJeF2xNFrX2M3QwlD8-8NkqDUEKegcYOj7l1DaGpmhfYTaJE3Dq7TIf9haauhlHQRQuHj3lTwJy3TGXL5-f/s1600/FirstFrost-197x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsflT1XU4l_SGkFHwCV7rlN9Rpp8p26WAAI3MWHh8X3pYi8fB38a9EfNAT_EJeF2xNFrX2M3QwlD8-8NkqDUEKegcYOj7l1DaGpmhfYTaJE3Dq7TIf9haauhlHQRQuHj3lTwJy3TGXL5-f/s1600/FirstFrost-197x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://catalog.einetwork.net/search~S1?/tFirst+Frost/tfirst+frost/1%2C2%2C2%2CB/frameset&FF=tfirst+frost&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=r" target="_blank">First Frost</a></b><br />
by Sarah Addison Allen<br />
<br />
<br />
“First Frost is a great continuation of the stories of sisters Claire and Sydney, and Sydney’s teenage daughter, Bay. Each of the Waverlys has their own somewhat supernatural gift, and all of them struggle with issues of identity and family. As with Allen’s previous works, this novel will appeal to fans of Alice Hoffman and readers who enjoy family stories that are not overflowing with angst and drama.”<br />
<br />
Lauren Mitchell, Pima County Libraries, Tucson, AZ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
--<i>Post by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906">Tracy</a></i>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13991435348147488906noreply@blogger.com0