Amherst Book Blog

Is it Worth the Weight?

2012-01-19T17:43:00.001-05:00

A new year always means a fresh start. Books, talk shows, magazines are all reminding us that even if you tried and failed last year, it’s time to wipe the slate clean and once again join the bandwagon to weightloss, recovery, or whatever wagon you might have fallen from.

Jennifer Hudson has been a big inspiration with her Weight Watchers success that has been seen on television commercials and talk shows and most recently on Dr. Oz. Weight Watchers has been around for years and promises lots of tools and support to get you on track to eating healthier. Weight Watchers All-Time Favorites: over 200 best-ever recipes from the Weight Watchers Test Kitchens includes chapters on crock pot cooking and even 15 minute meals for those of us in a hurry. While Weight Watchers updated it’s program in 2011 to include the Points Plus system, many of the older cookbooks still offer exchanges and points to help you track your meals.

The 150 Healthiest 15-minute Recipes on Earth : the surprising, unbiased truth about how to make the most deliciously nutritious meals at home in just minutes a day offer more quick meal ideas focusing on lots of fresh ingredients with short cuts like using frozen fruits and vegetables. Nutritionist Jonny Bowden offers ideas for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with healthy snacks with help from whole foods chef Jeanette Bessinger. Recipes were chosen based on nutrient density, getting the most nutrition for the dollar and most are very family and wallet friendly. Jalapeno Cornbread Chili can be adjusted to suit your family's taste and the SPeedy and SPicy Curried Apricot Chicken Salad is great for an entree or packed for a quick take-along lunch.

But weight loss really is a numbers game as shown in titles like The 17 Day Diet : a doctor's plan designed for rapid results by Mike Morano, 21 Pounds in 21 Days: the Martha's Vineyard Diet Detox, and the Four Day Diet. Smaller numbers also sell when talking about exercise. I'm all for the less strenuous the better and titles like Jorge Cruise's Three Hour Diet were quickly followed up with The 12 Second Sequence that promises to shrink your waist in two weeks. Cruise promises a workout with no gym, no fuss, that can be done anywhere. While you still have to actually work out, the 12 seconds required seems a small and doable price to pay.

Ten years ago I did try Cruise's book 8-Minutes in the Morning. Once I got the book home I realized that it took more than just eight minutes and he in fact wanted you to do several eight minute workouts back to back. Truth in advertising would have the title being more like the 32 Minute Workout.

Deck the Shelves

2011-12-22T11:53:00.001-05:00

Ready or not, the holidays are upon us. Frantic shoppers push through congested shops who in turn have turned another holiday into a marketing extravaganza that continuously revolves like the pages of a calendar, from one sale to the next.

While many people are heading to the library for cookbooks, holiday movies, and to browse the shelves for some casual reading, others are finding comfort in remembering the meaning behind some of the rhetorical madness of the season and turning to more spiritual choices.
In November, Booklist published their Top Ten Religion Books for Youth. Here’s a highlight of that list and a few of my favorites:

Angel in My Pocket tells how a good luck charm has a positive effect on four seventh graders who are each going through their own difficult time. A nice story that blends everyday life with spiritual wonder and has you looking for your guardian angel in places you would have never dreamed.

Caleb’s Wars by David L. Dudley is set in 1940s Georgia, so if you need a historical fiction book to satisfy that assignment this might be a good choice. While being baptized, Caleb, an African American teen, hears the voice of God and tries to keep it a secret as he sorts out his family problems. Add in German prisoners of war and two miraculous healings and you have a story that leaves you wondering about those voices in your own head.

Bless This Mouse, think Maus revisited for a younger crowd, as Newbery Award winning author Lois Lowry offers up this latest book that tells the tale of an endangered community of church mice anticipating the Blessing of the Animals when all the cats will descend upon the sanctuary. A charming fantasy that reflects upon the deeper meaning of diversity and community and how the constant struggle for survival brings out spiritual awareness.

Some other favorites at our library that didn’t make the list include: One More Wednesday by Malika Doray, a unique tale of love and loss that opens up avenues of conversation on death and eternity as a child hopes for one more Wednesday with grandma and all the love and comfort it provided.

The Mountains of Tibet by Mordicai Gerstein recants a woodcutter who dies and is given the choice of going to heaven or living another life. A beautiful story told in the simplest of words.

For those looking for a more poignant tale on the afterlife consider The Wheel of Life: a memoir of living and dying by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. I’ve given this book as a gift to medical students and those dealing with grief as a way of offering a different view on death and reincarnation. Her final book on the subject is actually an autobiography that uses her personal story as example and urges you to ask yourself “What have you done to help”.

Holidays can be a difficult time for many people but hopefully the reminder that something bigger than all of us guides our journeys, no matter what path we are on, can have a calming effect when the burning brisket sets off the smoke alarm and you’re wrapping that last present using black electrical tape on Christmas Eve. Relax, read a book, and have a peaceful holiday.

The Scoop on Nancy Drew

2011-10-06T17:26:00.003-04:00

Not many books transcend time like the Nancy Drew series. The popular series featuring the Nancy, the girl sleuth, and her friends Bess and George are still as popular today as they were when first penned more than 80 years ago. Many young girls were introduced to the series by picking up copies that once occupied their mother's bookshelves. My original copy of The Secret of the Old Clock had long since lost it's dust jacket when I first picked it up but the dark blue cover and orange imprinted letters were like a magnet drawing me in to countless hours of reading.

Nancy has undergone many changes and the formats have grown to include the Clue Crew, smaller paperbacks for younger readers, movies, ebooks, and even some reissues of her classic mysteries repackaged with retro infused covers.

But last Sunday I happened to catch a morning news program chronicling the life of MIldred Augustine Wirt Benson, author of 23 of the original books, which she wrote under the pen name of Carolyn Keene. Maybe I'd heard of her before and just forgot. But seeing photos of Millie Benson brought the stories back to life, revealing the real woman who banged out more than 135 children's books on her Underwood typewriter.

Millie was a reporter for the Toledo Blade, a newspaper my family subscribed to when I was growing up. I was probably reading her news articles and books at the same time. Black and white photos of her in a dugout canoe or taking a swan dive into the lake, and getting her pilots license at age 59 illustrated the spirit of Nancy was definitely alive in Millie Benson.

The old oak card catalog has disappeared but you can still access a public library online to locate a large collection of Nancy Drew books. She remained silent for many years about being the real Carolyn Keene till even her daughter had to ask her if it was really true that she was Nancy Drew.

Millie made about $500 for each book she wrote and never saw a dime of royalty money from book sales or movies. But somehow I think it was more important to her that the independant spirit of womanhood live on in her books. She had just finished typing her column at the Toledo Blade one day in 2002 when she took ill. Millie died at the age of 96.

Check out a Nancy Drew book or look for Nancy Drew: Girl Sleuth and the Women Who Dreated Her by Melanie Rehak. Read more about the life of Millie Benson on her web site.

Getting to the Soul of the Matter

2011-02-24T13:44:00.004-05:00

Lorain County Reads recently chose Soul of a Chef by Michael Ruhlman as their next big read. Ruhlman honed his career writing about topics he had absolutely no knowledge of, like Wooden Boats in 2002, and Walk on Water in 2003. Drawn into the world of craftsmen whose work is defined by the tools of their trade, be it scalpel or jig saw, he quickly gets to the heart of the matter; the soul of what elevates a job into a passion.

I met Michael after sending him an invitation to speak at the Lorain County JVS. It helped that I had my HACCP certification and ServSafe papers along with gram bags of agar and lecithin powders in small bags in my car, don’t ask. But credibility is an amazing thing and a simple letter ended with me being able to help out during the book signing after his presentation. His young audience asked lots of questions, and Ruhlman answered each one, relaying information about culinary school, writing, and most of all, the “soul” needed to compete successfully, no matter what your field.

Months later he attended a local dinner and shared his knowledge of Charcuterie, preparing meats used in a farm to table dinner that evening. Ruhlman slips quietly from being a teacher to being a student, a writer’s skill that keeps him in good company as students stood shoulder to shoulder in the kitchen that day preparing forcemeats and discussing brining techniques.

“Soul of a Chef” is three separate stories, each revolving around a separate chef. You’ll come away with an inside look into the process of creativity and sustaining a momentum that allows some people to succeed when others are watching the clock.

Ruhlman is best when writing on food and those who love it. “The Making of a Chef” was a priceless view inside not only the St. Andrew’s kitchen at Hyde Park but inside the psyche of a possessed profession. Dr. Tim Ryan, president of CIA said during a speech “Chefs are all pyromaniacs at heart; we’ve just found an acceptable outlet for our passion”. The descriptions of student life read like scripture to aspiring chefs and Ruhlmans’ ability to tap into that passion makes him a great choice for a Lorain County Reads author.

Ratio is probably one of the first books to have its own app, available July 2010, and his Elements of Cooking, a culinary take-off of Strunk and White’s version, continues to be a top seller. I do have a problem with his recent merge with Blue Sky, offering sponsored products to customers who follow his weekly deals, this week was a poached egg spoon for $45, but I do still follow his blog.

Lorain County can use a little passion, something that seems to be lost as of lately. Hopefully Ruhlman’s book can ignite a spark in readers that will light up an otherwise dull day….is it five o’clock yet? I'm thinking I need that egg spoon.

Coming soon to a shelf.....right here!

2011-01-20T14:49:00.003-05:00

Check out some of the new books we'll be adding to our collection. If you think you have to be a kid to enjoy some of the great Juvenile or Young Adult fiction out there, well think again.

Timeless by Alexandra Monir (YA MON) combines a very cool piece of jewelry along with just enough romance to make this time traveling drama appeal to all ages. This book is a perfect winter retreat where Venice Beach meets old money Manhatten and leads to a young woman learning the truth to some old family secrets. Fantasy meets historical fiction meets urban drama!

Guardian of the Dead by Karen Healey (YA HEA) made the list of 2011 Best Fiction for Young Adults. Healey's first book received starred reviews from all the trade journals and who could argue. Creepy yet funny, sexy and smart, this book transends the Young Adult bookshelf and appeals to anyone who likes a good mystery with a fantasy slant. Find out what connects a string of morbid murders with fairy siblings and an ancient curse.

Garnering an award for 2011 Best non-fiction book is Jill Rubalcaba's Every Bone Tells a Story. Here a real life Indiana Jones explains how the advent of new technology views how scientists study the past and how we interpret our ancestors. Meet interesting characters like the Iceman, Turkana Boy and Kennewick Man up close and personal.

Vibes by Amy Kathleen Ryan (YA RYA)isn't your ordinary story of high school angst. Sure it's tough being a high school senior. Kristi worries about her weight, the new boy in school, and her parents relationship. Add to the fact that she is all a psychic and can read minds and you've got a whole new slant on a familiar story. If you''ve walked the hall just knowing that everyone is thinking or looking at you, then you'll be entertained by Kristi’s prickly demeanor and empathize with her image issues. And yes, she loves opera.

If you've enjoyed other books by Jane Smiley, like The Georges and the Jewels or Horse Heaven, you may want to venture to the Young Adult section to pick up her newest book, A Good Horse. Be prepared for lots of background on horse grooming, horse training, horse boarding... in fact if you're a horse lover then you'll enjoy this book about 13-year old Abby who must stand up to protect her colt Jack. When facts come to light that Jack may be the offspring of a stolen mare it's up to Abby to do the right thing.Trash by Andy Mulligan(YA MUL) takes place in an unnamed third-world country in the not so distant future. The story line of a group of kids picking through garbage dumps looking for items they can sell lends itself to a sort of Treasure Island meets Slumdog Millionaire drama when suddenly a wealthy business owner loses something that he'll pay dearly to get back. Suddenly a ramshackle group of boys realize their greatest dreams are within reach. This would be an excellent book discussion choice with lots of talk points.

If you liked Impossible by Nancy Werlin then her latest book, Extraordinary (YA WER), should be at the top of your list. Phoebe, a member of the wealthy Rothschilds family, befriends Mallory, an awkward new girl in school, and it doesn't take long before the truth to come out. Mallory has secrets that will change Phoebe's world and when Mallory's brother shows up it's no wonder he seems to have a strange hold over what Phoebe is thinking and doing. Fairy lit meets urban high school drama-rama.

If you're looking for more ideas check out some of the readers advisory pamphlets located in the Youth Services section. Flyers titled Books With Beat, New Baby in the House, and the latest Zombie Invasion might just help point you in the direction of your next great read.

January means Organizing

2011-01-05T14:49:00.004-05:00

It’s no surprise to me that the library’s two copies of The Organization Map by Pam McClellan are both missing. Everyone feels that they need more organization in their lives, perhaps a fleeting glimpse of a stress free life knowing your paperclips are sorted by color and size gives us a false sense of security and safety and we run out to find any magazine book or web site that can help us achieve that goal. Sure, my life would be great, I’d sleep nights, have time for filing my nails and reading endless books, if only I could have my closet revamped by Martha Stewart.

January offers relief from the hectic holiday shopping and family gatherings that have many of us making reindeer centerpieces that include the Halloween pumpkins that were still on the back porch, and in my case the flat of Mother’s Day pansies I never had time to plant and an Easter Egg wreath that looked quite festive after a coating of silver spray paint.

Organizing Your Day: time management techniques that will work for you by Sandra Felton and Marsha Sims notes that well-managed time reduces stress, helps you accomplish more in less time, and most importantly, gives you greater freedom to enjoy doing what you love. I suppose that’s what gets everyone thinking that a new year brings new hope for new ideas. I was all excited to look at new furniture and decorate my living space to look like the cover of a Decorating Den. But I was disappointed in Christopher Lowell’s Seven Layers of Design when I realized he was talking about paint, flooring and texture when I had in mind seven years of crappola and moving boxes that hadn’t been opened in ten years.
The Power of Slow by Christine Hohlbaum promises to reduce stress, help you accomplish more in less time and give you greater freedom to enjoy life. Sounds like a plan. I was excited to slow down the pace and have time for a real vacation until I read the inside front cover flap where tips listed included “When working on a project on your computer, close all the windows, with the exception of the one you need to do the job at hand.” What ever happened to multi-tasking? Currently I have six windows open including a book review, sports article for the Plain Dealer, a press release for On Demand Studios, a business web page I’m updating and the syllabus for an online class. I’m convinced that Hohlbaum is just a slacker is probably enjoying the fruits of publishing success while multi-tasking on a beach somewhere probably in cahoots with Dave Crenshaw, author of The Myth of Multitasking.

For those of you who still hold out hope for household organization try Cut the clutter and stow the stuff: the Q.U.I.C.K. way to bring lasting order to household chaos, edited by Lori Baird. This book includes over 1200 tips and strategies compiled from experts including how to tackle those piles of papers taking up valuable counter space. Making Room: Finding Space in Unexpected Places by Wendy A. Jordan may open your eyes to how you can make better use of space you have to tame the clutter monster. Turn that shelf in the bathroom into a bookcase or why not make that space under the staircase into an office niche?

And if crowded closets and barricades of boxes in the basement just seem like too much, consider simplifying with It's all too much: an easy plan for living a richer life with less stuff by Peter Walsh. And if you’re sorting through your piles of stuff and happen to find an overdue library book called The Organization Map please bring it back….maybe it’s the key to the life I’ve been looking for.

Patrons of Christmas Past

2010-12-21T19:01:00.002-05:00

Several years ago a librarian in Ludington, Michigan, wrote a fictionalized account of life at the library. She was immediately fired. It seems that while her tales of various community characters was meant to be an eye-opening yet fun portrayal of working in a public environment, her boss didn’t think it helped her case when she put a photo of the library on the book cover. Even if the names were changed, everyone recognized everyone else, and so her real story began. It seems that free speech is great, until someone is speaking about you.

Sally Stern-Hamilton committed the ultimate library sin. She crossed the line of confidentiality, even though she thought she had covered her tracks, her descriptions of library patrons and scenes of everyday life at the library broke the rules when it came to library customer service. She put herself and her motives before the needs of the patron.

Working at a library, or any public service position, is not a job where you can talk much about your day. It is not a place where you will get a pat on the back or a medal for good conduct because your story is always someone else’s story and usually it’s a story that’s not meant to share.

The building itself is quiet, the voices of patrons past are silent yet a spirit fills the library with shadows of people who have scanned the shelves or looked for someone to guide them to that piece of information that would bring them some peace.

“I need to find out about mesothelioma”, one woman asked. “The doctor says my husband has mesothelioma but I couldn’t understand the diagnosis. Can you help me?”

“I need the number for the closest military recruiting office. It doesn’t matter which one.”

How do I find out about filing for Emancipation from my parents? The court said I could get a form here.”

“Where are your books about pregnancy?”

“Can you help me find a free lawyer? I don’t have money to pay my ambulance bill and I may lose my house.”

“Where do you go when you can’t pay your heating bill?”

The laughter of a hundred children is not enough to drown out the voice that asked for poems that could be read at a child’s funeral. A boy who once came to check out “The Great Gatsby”, now waits in a hospital for an operation to fix his leg, broken in three places in an accident. His friend who was driving died. A mother waits at the window for a child who won’t be home for Christmas, ever again. People searching for answers, searching for help, pass from door to desk and back again.

The navy recruiter pulls up to the door and someone slips the boy a twenty dollar bill because he has no other money in his pockets and maybe he’ll need lunch.

And how was your day at work? Fine...same old stuff.

The library is silent, and still.

Star Review

2010-12-07T17:12:00.004-05:00

Maybe I’m just a tough critic but after years of writing book reviews for School Library Journal, this month’s issue contains only the second “starred review” I’ve ever submitted. Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea was only the second book that I thought deserved to be elevated to the status of “starred”. The first book I ever awarded a star to was Chicken Boy by Frances O’Roark Dowell, and that was in 2005.

Because of Mr. Terupt is a great book, well written, with believable characters and a theme reminiscent of Leave it to Beaver and Welcome Back Kotter all rolled into one. Each chapter is a separate narrative by one of the seven students in Mr. Terupt’s classroom. From the students’ distinct voices, readers come to understand the different personalities and backgrounds that define them. The chapters are short, some less than a page, each skillfully arranged to keep readers moving headlong into the conclusion.

But why only two starred reviews in a decade? With all the books being published you would think it would be easy to fill a library with award winning literature. But take a look at the publishing business and how it has evolved. Michael Larson, author of How to Get a Literary Agent, claims that the publishing business is changing faster and more radically than at any other time in history. Globalization is shaping the future of media and having profound effects on what is available at your library, book store, and cinema.

Reed Publishing sends me books every month. As one MLIS student told me, “Just give them all a star review, that way you get more free books”. This was what her professor was doing and he encouraged his students to reap the wealth of free books. I’m wondering if she ever noticed how many of these fiction books had characters using a lot of British slang and Australian settings.

Enter the Six Sisters of Publishing. During the first half of the century hundreds of publishers and imprints were formed. Mergers during the last ten years have resulted in the loss of 90% of the publishing imprints. Of the six big houses that remain only one is a US owned company. Here’s the breakdown in simple terms:

• Bertelsmann AG (German) owns 70 imprints including Random House, Knopf, Ballantine, Crown, Pantheon, and Vintage

• Simon & Schuster (US) includes Pocket Books, Free Press, Scribner, Touchstone

• Hachette Book Group (France) owns Little Brown and Company and Grand Central Publishing

• HarperCollins (Australia) includes Harper Paperbacks, Harper Mass Market, HarperOne

• Penguin Group (United Kingdom) includes Penguin, Putnam, Viking, Berkley, Signet, Plume, Grosset

• Macmillan (Germany) includes Henry Holt and Company, St. Martin's Press

Even my latest star reviewed book was a re-release of a previously published book. If it was ever turned into a movie that Paramount would produce and Mattel could manufacture the toys for and a publisher could re-release yet again the same book but with a glossy movie tie-in cover, then perhaps more people might get there hands on a good book.

While global forces dictate what we will read the genre of books sold show how media tie-ins affect sales. Thanks in part to Stephenie Meyer and her Twilight series, 17% of books sold in 2009 were related to vampires and the paranormal. When I first started reading Charlaine Harris, back in 2000 her characters Lily Bard and Aurora Teagarden had no idea that Sookie Stackhouse would come on the scene some ten years later becoming the inspiration for HBO’s True Blood series. Harris herself had a total of nine titles in the top 100 sellers in one year.

The mother daughter Cast team had six books in the top 100 in 2009, all part of their House of Night series. Add some zombies in the mix with Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith and it would make sense that almost 20% of books being purchased have some walking dead factor.

I guess that reading books, where ever they are published and by whoever owns the company, is not a lost art. But having a character that is dead would help your chances of getting published. Write a book with a vampire or a zombie as the main character, add in a British accent and a Canadian setting….then your sitting on a best seller.

There's an app for that

2010-12-01T11:35:00.003-05:00

Where there’s an app there’s probably a book for that. When that need hits you to check if a book is on the shelf at your local library, consider downloading The Library Company’s (TLC’s) new LS2 mobile app that allows you to interface with your school of public library anywhere you have a wireless connection. Currently the app has only been released for Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iTouch but the developer claims the app will be available for the Android market soon.

Reviewers claim that even the newest versions have some bugs still to work out and may not interface with your local library if they do not subscribe to the TLC format. Sure, you can always just go online to the library’s website and search the catalog through your web browser but patron’s appetite for free apps is hard to overlook.

According to Mobclix, there are more than 27,000 app-based books available on Apple’s App Store, with games falling behind at 25,400, and entertainment at a distant third place of 17,164. This month also saw Amazon release the Kindle app. This free download makes the more than 750,000 Kindle books available to anyone with a computer or smart phone. No longer do you have to own a Kindle, although I’ve put down paper books and now read exclusively on mine, but you can download books to your phone, Blackberry, or Windows computer.

Consumer Reports has the Nook from Barnes & Noble rated third under the Kindle as best overall eReader. But already the December issue of the magazine is out of date as new releases hit stores in time for holiday giving.
The iPad also faces some challenges. While it blazed a trail the fact it is expensive and lacks options now standard on other tablets like a built in web cam, USB port and high resolution camera have consumers looking at other less expensive models with more functions like the VILIV Netbook and the Samsung Galaxy tablet.

OverDrive Media Console is a free, easy-to-use application that allows you to download audiobooks, music, ebooks, and video. This free download allows you to check out media from local libraries for viewing and listening on your computer or mobile device. This Ohio based company is continually expanding and offers more than 100,000 titles.

Use the library to help you sort through all the technology available for this month’s gift giving. Consumer Reports is available in our magazine section as well as online through our Ebsco database that is accessible from home as long as you input your library card number. Getting to the online version of Consumer Reports through Ebsco allows you to find articles and ratings without having to pay a fee required at the magazine’s online site.

Books to help you through the techno maze include How to Do Everything Facebook Applications for those who want to understand the ins and outs of the popular networking site. The popular “Dummies” series now includes BlackBerry For Dummies and Twitter for Dummies. For those looking to gain knowledge the old fashioned way consider the New York Times book Smarter by Sunday: 52 Weekends of essential knowledge for the Curious Mind. Chapters include A History of Classical Music, Physics, and Ancient Egypt.

Even with a three week checkout time you’re bound to gain a few segments of new knowledge that may help you if you find yourself in a conversation with Alex Trebek. Consider then Carved in Sand : When Attention Fails and Memory Fades in Midlife by Cathryn Jakobson Ramin. Thank goodness it’s available in Large Print.

This is the season…the season of technology, whether we’re ready for it or not.

A book in the hand is worth...

2010-11-09T16:24:00.007-05:00

I used to think the weight of a book in hand lent something to the entire reading experience. Cracking open a brand new book, fresh pages that hold some kind of allure, the mix of ink a heady aroma that drives the bibliophile to flip page after page consuming the entire volume at one sitting. Ebooks seemed a thing of future generations with no value added over their paper counterparts.

That is until I got a Kindle. I had been researching different digital reading devices and had actually decided on a different model, the Barnes and Noble Nook, before receiving the Kindle as a gift. A gift in hand is better than arranging for return shipping and over the course of the next several hours, as books were delivered through Whispernet technology, I entered the digital book age.

Ebooks are not new to librarians. For years libraries have offered a handful of digital downloads. But the latest generation of eBooks ad readers offer some advantages not found on previous releases. The ability to change the font size and new screen technology allows for increased viewing even in low light situations. With some devices, like the Kindle, you have the option of having the book read to you using text to voice software.

Ebooks are being used in the classroom. Previously the inability to take notes kept textbooks from being fully utilized by students but not any more. More and more research is being accessed through eBooks with citations reflecting the access of the latest digital resources. Page numbers are not available so section or url addresses are used in citations.

While a specific device is not required to view an eBook, you can download applications to your desktop computer, laptop and even to your phone, the variety of digital tools and functions make digital readers like the Kindle and the Nook an item most students will be taking to college with them. My Kindle cost about the same as the graphing calculator I had to purchase for my kid’s algebra class.

I had taken home Curse of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz, but after downloading the sample onto the Kindle I found it impossible to get the 400 plus pages out of my library bag.

For those considering the purchase of an eReader check out http://ebookreadermatrix.com/ for a nice side by side comparison of devices. This month’s issue of Consumer Reports magazine features their review of eReaders that might help hesitant consumers with the decision making process.

On my Kindle now is Robert B. Parker’s Painted Ladies, the last of the Spenser novels, and The Language of Bees by Laurie R. King. Deceit: A Novel by Brandilyn Collins is more of a thriller than I would usually pull off the shelf and Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught would be the book I would not want anyone to know was on my Kindle should I suddenly depart.

Oh, and I better renew the library’s copy of Curse of the Spellmans that’s still at the bottom of my book bag. It’s overdue.

Things that go bump in the night

2010-10-07T16:35:00.005-04:00

Things that go bump in the night bring lots of people into the library once the days start getting shorter, the shadows grow longer, and pumpkins start taking the place of spring planters on local porches. The popularity of our current display of “Spine Tingling Reads” is proof that aliens, ghosts, and witches, oh my, are great reads for cool October nights.

The Ghost Whisperer, Mary Ann Winkowski, a local author best know for her character depicted by actress Jennifer Love Hewitt on the television show, has a new book out this month, The Ice Cradle: a Novel from the Ghost Files. The second book in her Ghost Files series deals with a small Rhode Island village and the construction project that has drummed up more than just memories of a tragic accident that occurred there over 100 years ago. You can check out Mary Ann’s schedule of local book signings by visiting her web page or check out one of her earlier books at the library, When Ghosts Speak: Understanding the World of Earthbound Spirits.

Consider making it to one of her book group meetings that take place the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Borders Books in Strongsville. The Ice Cradle is the featured book for the upcoming November 18th meeting.

Chris Woodyard has been writing about Haunted Ohio since 1991, releasing five volumes in her popular series as well as her book Ghost Hunter’s Guide to Haunted Ohio that chronicles some of her experiences while researching locations and background for her books.

Chris visited the Amherst Public Library years ago but no photos were allowed to be taken during her presentation. As you’ll see from her books, she never lets anyone take her picture. She continues to work and two years ago she sent a set of books to be used as summer reading prizes. Flip to the back of any of the Haunted Ohio books to access an index by county. Here’s where you can pick out local stories based in Lorain, Oberlin, Cleveland, or check out a county you’re going to visit. I read up on Johnson’s Island just in case I run into any soldiers on my next trip to the islands.

For those who want to read more on the dark side consider horror stories like Dan Poblocki’s The NightMarys where two teens must break a curse that is causing their greatest fears to become realities. For those who like to listen to a book while walking down a spooky, dark, dark path consider checking out a Playaway like Bitten, by Kelley Armstrong. Sure you’re familiar with horror king Stephen King but did you ever read anything by his son? Check out Heart-shaped Box, the first book by Joe Hill, who chose to use a pen name rather than acknowledge his relationship to his famous father in the press. The book took critics by storm and the plot and pacing will remind you of the paternal connection. You also might think twice before buying that next item on ebay.

Take a chance on a tale of horror, it can’t be much worse then reading the daily newspaper. Horror, fright, and things that go bump in the night. Who you going to call?

Things are heating up at the Amherst Public Library

2010-09-21T16:12:00.006-04:00

Maybe it's an omen.

John Henkel and Chase Harper first spotted the fire.

Library patrons tipped off staff today when a fire broke out at the Amherst Public Library today. “I had just stopped to talk to a friend when we spotted a burning bush”, said John Henkel.

Henkel had stopped near a parked car along the Spring Street side of the building to talk to Chase Harper. Harper ran inside the building to report the fire to library staff.

Amherst Police and Fire Departments respond to the call.

“It had really sparked up fast”, said Harper. “One minute we were just standing there talking and all of a sudden the bush was in flames and the mulch was smoldering.” Staff members responded to the fire by calling 911 while others grabbed fire extinguishers to contain the small blaze.

Cheryl Ashton was at the reference desk when she saw smoke billowing past the windows. Running downstairs she spotted Harper who pointed to the flames. “I’m wondering if we should take this as some kind of omen”, said Ashton. “You know it’s not the first time a message came through a burning piece of landscaping.”

Firemen soak down the mulch around the burned shrub.

A patron took over the first extinguisher as Ashton went back into the building for more. Don Dovala brought out a third extinguisher and the fire was contained by the time the Amherst Police and Fire Departments arrived. “Everything is so dry right now”, said one fireman. “It wouldn’t take much to set off a small brush fire. We’ll make sure it’s watered down well because the mulch has a tendency to hold in embers.”

Patrons soon returned to what they had been doing before all the excitement and some speculated to the fire’s origins. A carelessly tossed cigarette, spontaneous combustion, an ill timed promotion for banned book week?

The answers to many of life’s little mysteries are often found by looking at the library. Checking out The Illustrated Book of Signs & Symbols by Miranda Bruce-Mitford explains many of the fundamental signs and omens that have become part of our folklore and our everyday life. Universal symbols like “mother earth” that permeate mythology across a multitude of cultures are examined as well as religious symbols and those found in nature.

Many books require the examination of omens and symbols. Dan Brown’s popular sequel to The Da Vinci Code, The Lost Symbol, traces back historical symbolism and secret societies that still exist today. Other authors picked up on the popular books releasing titles like Secrets of the Code: the unauthorized guide to the mysteries behind the Da Vinci Code by Dan Burstein.

Flipping through the Bruce-Mitford book it lists fire as one of the basic earth elements. Supposedly a vision of fire can lead to a deeper understanding of your place in the universe. Or maybe it means you’re going to meet a fireman. It’s elementary dear Watson.

Seasonal Evolution

2010-09-13T14:10:00.008-04:00

Forget any celestial equinox or counting down the days till the solstice declares the perfect alignment of sun and stars to know when fall begins. The Farmer’s Almanac might give you weather predictions and advise you when to plant your winter wheat, but what’s happening at the library is as perfect an indication of the change of seasons as…well, Dick Goddard and the wooly bear.

The library eased from summer reading into fall with people returning their summer paperbacks like The Au Pairs by Melissa de la Cruz, reads by Evanovich and thrillers like Laura Lippman’s What the Dead Know, a book that chronicled the mystery of two young girls that disappeared from a suburban shopping mall thirty years ago and show up at a hit a run accident years later.

Self indulgent mysteries, court room drama, and even summer romance has returned to the shelves as more weighty tomes find their way to the circulation desk. Look for research papers and science fair projects to bring in patrons searching for encyclopedias to cite as resources and heavier history books detailing civil war battles and world war scenarios. Reading lists still require ATale of Two Cities or Pride and Prejudice, but many kids now can download those books to their iPods.

For the last hundred years, students have visited the library to supplement their studies, once asking Maude Neiding for classic literature like Tom Sawyer and Treasure Island, now students use library computers to access the Internet or prepare PowerPoint presentations. During our annual book covering event at the library this year students brought in more than 500 textbooks that were covered here at the library, more books than Maude Neiding had in her original collection.

As the days get shorter look for fall favorites like Mediterranean Harvest by Martha Rose Shulman that lists more than 500 recipes such as Garlic Soup on page 161 or the Baked Eggplant Stuffed with Pasta on page 220. Recipes that celebrate the harvest, canning or pickling take center stage over recipes for grilling and summer smoothies.

While many students still require books for school projects, the downsizing of our school libraries and inclusion of more digital resources and computers, has evolved into more use of online databases and digital information sharing. The library’s Accelerated Reading database that merges with our library catalog is a valuable tool for students and parents who need library books to complete reading assignments.

A great book written with a teacher’s point of view, try Close Encounters of the Third-grade Kind: thoughts on Teacherhood by Phillip Done. His insightful depiction of every day life in the classroom as a new teacher is funny while at the same time acting as a soundboard for ideas.

Maude Nieding would be amazed at the evolution of the library as a community resource but also how we’ve learned to function through the seasons, turning over books and movies from one season to the next, just like the transition of baseball to football. The library constantly changes yet remains the same. I’d better check if we have enough copies of Tom Sawyer on the shelf.

Hunt Down Treasure at the Library

2010-08-14T16:28:00.001-04:00

Many people have stopped by the library to pick up copies of our annual Scavenger Hunt. Any time I drive through town I can usually spot someone clutching their white sheet of paper in one hand and a pencil in the other, gazing up at buildings searching for that last elusive clue.

Just walking through the stacks of books here at the Amherst Public Library I’m reminded about all the treasures that await people who take the time to browse and search out that elusive title. People who only shop at Borders or other retail stores limit their literary exposure to current titles and remade classics. Of course I’ve got my Borders reward card and I’m usually there once a week on my day off, but people who don’t explore their own library may be missing out on some of the best book treasures around.

The tan, cloth-bound copy of The Dark Frigate by C.B. Hawes still stands on the shelf in Junior Fiction. The New York Tribune book review stated “No one, we think, has written so perfect a pirate tale since ‘Treasure Island” and the clipped summary from the book jacket remains pasted inside the book cover. Without Johnny Depp on the cover it’s a hard sell to today’s young readers but the stained cover is still sturdy and the sticker showing the book was a 1924 Newberry Medal winner has been taped over multiple times.

Tarzan of the Apes was a book by Edgar Rice Burroughs long before anyone thought of animating the story. Even the Wizard of Oz held shelf space long before the movie classic. Cloth bindings, well worn, and well read are signs of earlier times. Part of our library genealogy that makes each public library unique.

Downstairs, near the entrance Jane Eyre stands staunch in its orange, no-nonsense binding. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by Le Carre with its blue cloth binding seems to sink into the shadows next to other more flashy covers. Splashy fonts and graphics covered in special plastic covers protect newer books by Hiaasen and Scottoline.

I wonder about those people who stand in the aisles at the book store, sipping their lattes and browsing the stacks that have already been sorted for them by New York Times bestseller designations and a marketing plan that correlates visibility with increased sales. When all the books are slick and shiny it’s hard to tell the well read from the gimmicky, choosing from a set of cards someone has already dealt you from a limited deck.

The library keeps those favorites, those books that are timeless, that tell something about the character of those tending to the shelves. Why we would get rid of anything by Don Winslow I don’t know; The Life and Death of Bobby Z, was probably one of the best books I ever read. And the best Stephen King book won’t be found in the fiction section but I think it resides in the biography section. First editions sometimes end up on the sale rack because of space limitations and now even we are displaying the shiny new books on their own special shelves

Just like a community is made up of different people, all sizes colors and ages of books reside within the walls of the library. The collection defines who we our, our values and our dreams, I’ll keep our 1958 edition of The Call of the Wild in our collection for that one person who might appreciate the worn red copy with the fleur de lis with illustrations by Robert Todd and because you can’t always judge a book just by the cover. Sometimes you just have to discover the treasure for yourself.

Erie Authors

2010-07-03T16:14:00.004-04:00

Georgann and Michael Wachter were on a backpacking trip through Europe in 1972 when they did some snorkeling in the Mediterranean Sea and were introduced to the underwater world. Since that time they've completed hundreds of dives all over the world including the Caribbean, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and all around the Great Lakes.

On Thursday, July 8 at 7 p.m., the Wachters will be at the Amherst Public Library to talk about their experiences and their books, Erie Wrecks West, Erie Wrecks & Lights, and Erie Wrecks East. They'll even have a display of some of the various artifacts the've brought back from shipwrecks they've explored.

Erie Wrecks West covers more than 100 shipwrecks complete with photos and ship information. Each book includes a shipwreck map of the area and detailed information such as surviror's stories and GPS coordinates. Erie Wrecks and Lights gives details on the lighthouse of Lake Erie and the five greatest storms in Lake Erie history.

They traveled thousands of miles for a history lesson

2010-06-17T19:43:00.009-04:00

How far would you go to find out about your family history? Deborah and Stephen Jackson traveled more than 2500 miles from their home in Stockton, California, to find information on Deborah's family. The retired couple had been on the road almost three weeks, traveling to Georgia and up the east coast through New York before winding back through Ohio and stopping recently at the Amherst Public Library.

"We came to Amherst because that's where my family is from originally", said Deborah. "We've spent our vacation visiting cemeteries, historical associations, and genealogy centers tracing back our own family history." Stephen's family was mostly from Georgia which led them to a great archives in the Atlanta area where they were able to find clues and fill in gaps in his family tree.

Deborah was very happy when she found the book Amherst Pictorial History by Fay Van Nuys Ott in the library's local history collection. On page 129 of the book she found a photo of John Ulrich Sr., sitting in his cobbler shop, dated 1920. "He was my great grandfather", she explained. "I've seen a photo of his house but never this one of inside the shop."

The Jacksons spent quite a while pouring over books and maps while on the other side of the room, kids took part in the library's regular Wednesday craft activity. "It makes me miss my grandchildren seeing all these happy little faces," said Deborah. "We've really enjoyed our time on the road. It's been a very relaxing vacation." Stephen is holding a copy of the new book by Arcadia Press, Images of America: Amherst. Find it at the library or purchase it online.

The Jackson's were traveling in their RV and had to head out to make arrangements for the evening. Before they left town, though, they headed downtown to take some photographs. Perhaps one day they'll tell their grandchildren about their journey across America to document their family history and tell them about some of the nice people they met along the way, maybe even the nice folks they met at the Amherst Public Library.

Find more information, including Amherst and South Amherst High School Yearbooks, historical photographs, and one of a kind books when you visit our Digital History Collection online. Also check out some of the Amherst News Times that are now available online. No need to travel thousands of miles and you just might find something you didn't even know existed.

Summer Series

2010-06-05T16:01:00.014-04:00

No more teachers no more books....hey, wait a minute, let's not get carried away. Summer is the perfect time to pick up that book just because you like the cover, because someone told you it was good, because you have time to sit back and just read for fun. Remember reading for fun?

Sometimes the best books are the ones you find by accident. Barefoot: a novel by Elin Hilderbrand is one such story. Connecticut housewife Vicki, diagnosed with lung cancer, has packed up her two kids for a chemo-commuting summer at the family's Nantucket cabin. Vicki brings along with her two other women that have there own baggage. The three women are noticed by Josh Flynn, a creative writing student that can smell a story in the air and quickly inserts himself into the drama that unfolds.

Summer People by Brian Groh is a quick read that puts you into the world of social privilege, but fills you with a great story of friendship and compassion. A debut novel, a light read that's perfect for poolside.

Sweet-and-sour summer is part of the series Dish by Diane Muldrow. This young adult series combines friendships, cooking, talking...what else is there? Short books, all with an underlyling culinary tie that brings characters and drama together on one menu.

The Floor of the Sky by Pamela Carter Joern depicts four generations of Nebraska ranchers packed into 250 pages that will have you wanting more. Lila is a pregnant teenager spending the summer at her grandmother Toby's Nebraska ranch. Toby has problems of her own, Toby is trying to save her ranch from foreclosure while dealing with her sanctimonious sister Gertie. What begins as a summer visit opens up Lila to family secrets and generations of turmoil that can only be felt by those people whose very existence, and life depends on the land around them. A gritty novel that would make a great movie.

Cabin pressure: one man's futile attempt to recapture his youth at summer camp by Josh Wolk is available as a book on CD. Reminicent of an Adam Sandler movie, Josh find himself faced with the ultimate step into adulthood - marraige. He returns to the summer camp of his youth before walking down the aisle. But while his beloved campgrounds have remained the same, Wolk finds that he has grown out of touch. What's worse is that he's still intimidated by supermacho co-counselor Mitch. If summer camp brings back memories of wedgies and misquito bites then join with Josh Wolk and share the memories.

Front Porch Tales by Philip Gulley invites you to sit and just enjoy the front porch of life. Lift your spirits and share in the warm and inspirational stories that help you put some perspective on what is really important in your life. A nice, relaxing read. Where's my iced tea?

Sure there's always work to be done but even young readers can relax and have fun with Mr. Putter & Tabby Paint the Porch by Cynthia Rylant. Everything is ready to go. The drop cloths are laid, the paint has been stirred, but when a squirrel gets curious, the resulting chaos is worth a few laughs, especially if you're not the one cleaning up. This is one of the books located in our Beginning Readers section in the Children's Department. Look for the red sticker on the book spine that says "Reader".

Remember, the library has a summer reading program for those ages 4 through 104. Visit our online registration page or our Youth Services page for more information.

A memorial for the weekend

2010-05-27T11:21:00.007-04:00

Often we get caught up with our daily schedules, lists and agendas, timetables that fill up our days yet drain us of precious minutes. Holidays sneak up on us and add to the chaos with cookout, parades, and party invitations.

And while an aura of uneasiness settled over my morning routine I looked at the calendar, having missed a doctor appointment the previous day and now committing myself to better organization, and noticed the date and suddenly realized the reason for the emptiness. May 27, a prelude to Memorial Day weekend, and the day, eight years ago I lost a very good friend.

Alison Dodson was my friend and what I would call a spiritual sister. When our family moved to Columbus, we lived a stone’s throw from Alison and her family. Alison and her husband had both graduated from Amherst and it seemed ironic that we were now living so close to each other. Several years later when she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer the journey was a rocky one and I just held on for the ride.

When the chemo kicked in I buzzed her hair and swept up the clippings from the kitchen floor. I shopped with her for clothes as she continued to lose weight.

Holidays were always a celebration at the Dodson household with food, kids in the hot tub, and pool volleyball. But that year I remember painting Alison’s toenails, red, white, and blue, as she laid resting on the sofa, because how could you go to the hospital without a proper pedicure.

She left that day, me promising to meet her at the hospital after I’d gone home to shower, change clothes and regroup. I promised her kids I would pick them up. But I never made it. I didn’t keep my promise. I got word she had died while I drove down Interstate 71, the day was sunny and James Taylor was singing “Fire and Rain”. Somehow the plans they made, the chemo, radiation, and all if it, had put an end to you.

Today I remember that Memorial Day weekend in 2002, the one I spent writing an obituary, and think about all the people who might view this weekend as not just a time to remember our veterans but all of our friends who have left, whose journey included a battle of a different kind, one they fought bravely, but overpowered them in the end.

We’ll honor others this weekend, my father, whose reissued Army medals I just received, and Mike Barvinchak, who was a Navy medic in Viet Nam and survived the horrors of war yet lost his battle at home with cancer.

I pull in the parking lot at work, another day, another battle of deadlines, shifting priorities and requests. But as I put the van in park a song comes on the radio and I pause, my hand on the ignition key, as James Taylor comes on the radio:

I’ve seen fire and I’ve seen rain
I’ve seen sunny days
That I thought would never end
I’ve seen lonely times
When I could not find a friend
But I always thought that I'd see you again.

Me, too, Alison….me, too. Sorry I let you down but thanks for the song.

Following is a list of books you might enjoy:

You can do this! : surviving breast cancer without losing your sanity or your style
by Elisha Daniels and Kelley Tuthill

Some of the best therapy comes from within. Help a friend by updating her look, new eye make-up, ideas and tips from someone who's been there.

Stand by her : a breast cancer guide for men by John W. Anderson
Chapters cover common concerns and questions from husbands who are on the front lines of the breast cancer battle. Topics cover "emotional fallout" and "Chemo: the shot heard round the world". Worth a look.

The unforgiving minute : a soldier's education by Craig M. Mullaney
A West Point grad, Rhodes scholar, and Army Ranger recounts his unparalleled education in the art of war. Nice personal narrative that includes "an appeal" as well as contact information for three non-profit organizations that help military personnel and their families.

Miss O'Dell : my hard days and long nights with the Beatles, the Stones, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and the women they loved
by Chris O'Dell

Here's your backstage pass to some of the most momentous events in rock history. O'Dell was part of rock royalty's trusted inner circle and this tell all tale will give you the inside story to what went on when the Beatles, Dylan, Taylor, Santana, and others came to town. Nothing wrong with living the dream.

Summer Grillin'

2010-05-24T14:21:00.008-04:00

June is the number one month for grilling according to the National Food Safety Board. With holidays like Memorial Day weekend to kick off the official grilling season there's lots of events like the Cleveland Rib Burn off to get you motivated. Just because the Amherst Fire Department heads over everytime you get the grill out shouldn't discourage you.

Warm weather, holiday entertaining, and just enjoying the great outdoors are reasons to fire up the grill and fire up some fun with some great books from the Amherst Public Library.

Barbecue Bible! sauces, rubs, and marinades, bastes, butters & glazes by Steven Raichlen, is a great book to start with. No matter what your taste, there's some easy recipes here for basic marinades that can also be used for basting sauces. Marinating is a great way to tenderize meat and cheaper cuts of meat do great on the grill when they're prepared properly.

Emeril at the grill : a cookbook for all seasons by Emeril Lagasse will have you kicking it up a notch with some of Emeril's original spice blends. You don't have to be a television chef to put together some of his recipes that go beyond the usual summer classics to include great grilling options for year round dining.

Lots of celebrity chefs jump on the grilling band wagon. Bobby Flay started off at the grill when he first appeared on television. Now his book, Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill cookbook : explosive flavors from the southwestern kitchen, will take you beyond the grill, with recipes full of fresh ingredients. Flay holds true to his southwestern flavor palette but makes it accessible to the everyday cook.

Rick Browne, the host of the PBS series, Barbeque America, has put together his book The big book of barbecue side dishes : over 125 recipes. There's more to grilling than just the main dish and Browne will show you great salads, sides, and even desserts that can round out your menu and keep you out of the kitchen a little longer.

Depending on what type of grill you have there may be a specific cookbook for you. Grillin' with gas : 150 mouthwatering recipes for great grilled food by Fred Thompson is just one of many books that speak to specific cooking styles.

If you'd rather stay out of the heat, and out of the kitchen, order a pizza and relax with a good mystery while you're waiting for the delivery car. Pick up The Grilling Season by Dianne Mott Davidson. This is the seventh book in her Cordon Bleu series and has Goldy being hired to cater a hockey party. Will Goldy's fresh-baked Chocolate Comfort Cookies give her the strength to solve a baffling mystery that threatens her catering deadline, her relationship with her son, and even her life? Recipes are included and maybe the Chocolate Comfort Cookie recipe will have you back in the kitchen. Too bad you can't make these on the grill.

Two fire trucks! Come on...I only used three habanero peppers just like Bobby Flay!

New Teen Reads

2010-05-14T15:04:00.009-04:00

Fans of Percy Jackson are lining up for the latest book by Rick Riordan. The Red Pyramid, Book one in the Kane Chronicles, hits book shelves this month and Percy fans will find that this latest tale seems right out of a parallel universe. Like his Last Olympians series, this new offering also takes place in New York. This time instead of Manhattan, Brooklyn is the scene for the fast paced action involving Egyptian gods and ensuing chaos. Witty characters, short chapters, young people with special powers, it’s a formula that works for Riordan and has fans lining up for his latest book.

Those pining for Percy will pick right up with14 year old Carter Kane and his 12 year old sister Sadie when mysterious forces descend upon the city and the teens get caught up in the action right from page one. While the publisher suggests this series for ages 10 and older, the action transcends word count barriers and reluctant readers, and busy adults, will find this book a welcome addition to their summer reading list.

You’ve read his books and seen the movies, but now, popular author John Grisham breaks into the Young Adult market with the character of Theodore Bone, a 13-year old who knows every judge and every policeman in his small town, as well as a bit about the law.

Sure he dreams of being a great trial lawyer, someday, but Theodore finds himself in a courtroom sooner than expected. A cold blooded killer is about to go free and Theodore’s the only one standing in his way. The resulting courtroom drama will have Grisham fans on edge as the suspense builds. Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer, available May 25, will keep you guessing until the final bang of the gavel. A must read for teens and anyone who enjoys a great courtroom saga.

Historical fiction just sounds like something thick and dusty but in the hands of author Michael P. Spradlin the age of kings comes alive in his series The Youngest Templar. The newest book in this series, Trail of Fate, follows the journey of Tristan, a young squire attending to the needs of the Knights Templar. Together with Robard, the king's archer, and a young female assassin named Maryam, they travel across France, protecting the Holy Grail. Adventure tinged with French history, and a bit of romance might have you thinking again about studying medieval history. Think young Indiana Jones in the year 1192 and you're on the right track. But start with book one in this series, Keeper of the Grail.

Reel in some Steelhead Books at the Library

2010-04-19T14:50:00.005-04:00

Every good fisherman knows there's more to just tying the fly or baiting the hook. With about one more week left of finding steelhead in our local rivers, many people are searching the library shelves for ideas, insights, and techniques to help them bring home the big ones.

Flyfishing doesn't have to be complicated and with a few simple egg patterns being an effective choice for Lake Erie waterways even a novice can have a successful day on the water. In Steelhead Guide: Fly FIshing Techniques and Strategies for Lake Erie Steelhead by John Nagy, you'll find lots of information about everything from flies to steelhead behaviors. Many of the photos were taken in Pennsylvannia but resemble shorelines in Mill Hollow as well as other spots along the Vermilion River.

Fishing Ohio by Tom Cross gets specific, listing more than 200 fishing spots around Ohio. You'll find a map in the front with numbered icons that direct you to more in detailed descriptions. The map makes it easy to locate your area or even plan a trip. Number 41 is the Vermilion River, with notes that it is one of the more recent additions to the state's list of steelhead sites.For each spot a brief overview is listed along with headings for Special Regulations, Driving Directions, and Camping Facilities. If you're headed to Van Buren Lake, Number 40, the author gives you a tip about a great little local ice cream spot located in the center of town. Hey, it's not just about fishing.

Best Streams for Great Lakes Steelhead by Bob Linsenman notes that several world-record fish have been caught in the Great Lakes Basin. This comprehensive guide includes maps of all the Great Lakes. Rivers in Chapter 8 include the Rocky RIver, Grand RIver, and Elk Creek. A brief history of Great Lakes fishing is also included. Check page 58 where a section called "Fly Recipes" begins. Here you'll find everything to put together the perfect combination of hook, thread, and everything else to put together the fly that will get the job done.

An index and resource guide make this book a good starting point for beginning anglers.

For another perspective try A Good Life Wasted or Twenty Years as a Fishing Guide by Dave Ames. If you've ever daydreamed about what it would be like to not have a real job, but just fish every day for a living then this book is for you. Written by a man who spends more than 150 days a year fly fishing, this collection of insights and stories will have you looking at that desk job in a whole different way. Anyone who spends that same amount of time in a cubicle will want to tag along as Dave Ames takes you down river to abandoned copper mines to the tune of distant fiddles. A perfect campfire or lounge chair adventure.

Whatever you're looking to hook, be it fish or just a solemn interlude spent contemplating the fishing lifestyle, the library has the book for you. Cast off, but stop at your library first.

Treasure Hunters

2010-03-30T16:26:00.004-04:00

Everyone is a treasure hunter at heart and searching the shelves at the library can lead to an unending supply of treasured reading choices. Since the 39 Clues have been on our series spotlight it's been hard to find one on the shelf. With titles like The Viper's Nest and The Sword Thief kids are quick to grab up any of the titles when the cover directs you to "Read the books. Play the game. Win the prizes."

But treasure seekers will also want to check out Attica, by Garry Kilworth. Aimed at grades 5-9, this adventure follows the step-siblings Alex, Chloe, and Jordy as they move into a new house and find that the attic holds more than dusty remnants of the past owners. Entering the attic they're transported to a world that is as magical as it is dangerous. Bizarre landscapes and Dali-type characters interact with them along their journey. This book will have you checking your own attic for strange activity.

The Door of No Return by Sarah Mussi first attracted me because of the main character Zac has ties to Ghana. When his grandfather tells him tales of his link to African royalty and a secret treasure Zac just assumes it's a fairy tale.

When his grandfather is murdered Zac has no choice but to set off on a journey to find the gold and search out the reason behind his grandfather's death. I'm hoping for more books featuring this character.

Leepike Ridge by N.D. WIlson tells the story of 11 year old Matt. While he's lived on Leepike Ridge all his life he never would have believed he would be caught underneath it. Worried about his home life, what kid wouldn't be if mom was dating the math teacher, Matt sets out on a late night walk and ends up being washed down a river and into a series of underground caves. But he's not alone. No, his troubles only get worse as his only companions are a dead man and an injured dog.

Matt's mom presumes he's dead but a group of villianous treasure hunters are in pursuit. What could be under Leepike Ridge that would draw all this attention?

Some times just searching the shelves results in unexpected treasure. Visit the library today and see what treasures you can find.

Tune in to Great CDs

2010-03-19T14:00:00.011-04:00

Music accompanies many of our daily activities from listening to the radio while driving around town to owning our own personal music players that we load with our own play lists. Music can sooth, envigorate, and entertain. At the library we have quite a collection of children's CDs available for check out. Some of these Cds may not appear on the top ten list at your favorite store but fill a niche and may be just the thing you're looking for.

Many CDs offer activies designed to get you moving. Bean Bag Fun offers two playback options, one with vocals and one that includes just the instrumental selections for you to continue the activity on your own. Songs like "Bean Bag Carousel" help with hand to eye coordination while songs like "Musical Bean Bags" emphasizes the concepts of "fast" and "slow".

Other CDs the encourage physical activity include Folk Dance Fun and even Salsa, Soul & Swing. Silly Willy Workout and Chicken Fat are classics that include actions designed for all fitness and ability levels.

Disney song collections like Radio Disney Jams are popular with tweens and feature pop artists performing favorite songs that are perfect for parties or just for fun. Artists include current stars like Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys as well as classic groups like Queen and Stevie Wonder that make for easier listening for the parents.

Look for classic children's storybook themes in musical format. Cds that feature favorite characters like Elmo or Dora the Explorer have fun music to keep younger listeners entertained. Classics like Madeline's Favorite Songs feature Ludwig Bemelmans' young French orphan, Madeline, and other characters from the the old house in Paris that was covered in vines.

Soundtracks from Broadway musicals are popular or how about those sound bites for your next Halloween party? Some people find the clips useful for editing their own video or adding to web site designs. Rattling chains, lapping waves, or the sound of a jet at take off can all be found on one of the Sound CDs.

Stop by and check out some of the unique CDs offered at the Amherst Public Library.

Food for thought; thought for Ferran

2010-03-04T17:34:00.004-05:00

No you won’t see any books here by nepotistic southern belles and their sons, even though they may be popular with local audiences. And I also don’t agree with local editors who try and remind me that a restaurant is an object and should not be referred to in print with words like “they” and “their”.

Food aficionados will appreciate Food for Thought; Thought for Food, the dense offering by Ferran Adria, edited for English audiences by Vicent Todoli. This book transcends all editorial guidelines, becoming a mesmerizing union of food and art plated up in a colorful bundle wrapped in white but filled with fun surprises. Where else can you hold the menu from Documenta 12 featuring the symbolic menu offered to just 100 people as part of El Bulli’s inclusion in the European art festival?

Even the drawing of Ferran on the cover shows his status as a culinary icon. I mean if The Simpsons creator Matt Groening is providing your cover art then you know you’ve made it big, not that the title “Best restaurant in the WORLD” for three years and three Michelin stars isn’t something to tuck in your apron pocket.

Knowing Ferran’s reputation of epic artistry and attention to detail, I was surprised to open up the book and find two editing mistakes on the first two pages I scanned. Two for two, I was a little afraid to read further. Check out page 65 for a misprinted photo location and page 60 for a misspelling of table setting.

Whatever, I own the book and don’t really care what mistakes the editor made, the door that opens to the world of El Bulli inside the cover was reason enough to purchase.
Food for Thought is available on Amazon for $29.67.

For those looking for something a little closer to home they might want to try Kitchen confidential : adventures in the culinary underbelly byAnthony Bourdain. Sure he was a bit of a cop out, selling t-shirts in the parking lot at CIA and offering tattoos, but early on I loved his writing and I’d also recommend Bourdain’s work of fiction Bone in the Throat for a fun romp through the culinary underworld.

Dachshunds on the shelf

2010-02-22T17:00:00.013-05:00

When someone saw me walking my mini-dachshund through town the other day and asked how old she was I mistakenly said, "Oh, I've had her about a year". I realized much later that Sid, Sid Vicious if you're being formal, actually turned two this past February. I guess because she is still rather tiny, and also the fact I can't believe I own such a small dog, I sometimes forget just how long she's been here.

Small dogs have a way of growing on you and even show up in literature from time to time. Margaret Rey may be famous along with H.A. Rey for the Curious George series but also wrote about Pretzel, the longest dachshund in the world. Across the street from Pretzel lives another dachshund named Greta who lands herself in a bit of trouble that requires Pretzel to use his strength, and length, to rescue her.

Dachshunds show up in several books by author Ezra Jack Keats. Look for Willie the dachshund in Whistle for Willie, he appears on the front and back cover. Willie also shows up in another book by that author, Pet Show.

Hank Zipzer is the popular series by Henry Winkler. Hank named his dachsund Cheerio because of how she looked when she ran in circles after her own tail. She shows up in several episodes with one of the funniest being A Tale of Two Tails.

In Mr. Dogwood goes to Washington by Leigh Anne Florence kids get a view of Washington D.C. through the eyes of two dachshunds, Woodie and Chloe. Color illustrations in this small chapter book as well as a a fun story make this a great way to learn about our nation's history and see what a dachshund might look like if he joined Nasa and the space program.

Kids aren't the only ones bringing their dogs along for fun. Look in the mystery section for The Serpents Trail: a Maxie and Stretch Mystery by Sue Henry. Maxie finds it hard to believe she's left everything to travel in her Winnebago, this time to Alaska, but her mini-dachshund Stretch is always there for company, and to sniff out clues.

Our dog Sid was a very good friend for our lab Holly. Although I don't think any household should be subjected to teenagers and dachshunds together, the mix just makes for too much defiance in one small space, the arrival of Sid was perfect timing as Holly's health declined. She was a good friend to Holly and I suppose that's why I keep her around.

Time and Time again

2010-02-16T14:18:00.008-05:00

Maybe it was just the Valentine's Weekend getting to me or not knowing what a triple toe pick sow cow was, but I thought I'd check out The Time Traveler's Wife on DVD. If you're like me and always seem to be at the bottom of a reserve list with thirty people ahead of you, perhaps you'll be interested in these books located in our Young Adult Department.

Check out Undercover by Beth Kephart. Sort of a modern day Cyrano remake Undercover tells the story of Elisa, the undercover author of many a love note penned for Theo as he tries to woo the lovely Lila. Elisa writes other letters, too. Letters to her father, the only one who seems to understand her. Scenes of ice skating on the frozen pond as Elisa withdraws to the one thing that makes her feel special, figure skating. Hey it's a love story and you might learn about that triple toe loop thing. The author, Kephart, is a figure skater so if anyone is going to know, she is.

For more of a time after time love theme check out Reincarnation by Suzanne Weyn. Beginning with a life and death in prehistoric times and evolving into a love haunted by history, this book follows the lovers through the realms of ancient Egypt, Greece, up to the present day. Can all this have started through the desire of a beautiful green stone? You'll be hanging around the emerald counter at your mall's jewelry store.

Check out this book and it may have you looking for other documentation on reincarnation. A must read for the non-fiction crowd would be Only Love is Real: A Story of Soulmates Reunited by Brian L. Weiss. If you can't find that check out Many Lives, Many Masters, also by Weiss.

We're in Stitches!

2010-02-05T11:24:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's true...Crochet Workshop is back on the calendar with a new six week workshop presented at the Amherst Public Library in cooperation with Pat Catan's of Amherst. Vivian will be there to help you review some of the stitches we learned in previous workshops and to get new members up to speed. Then we're off and running for six weeks where we'll make a scarf, six more weeks of winter you know, and then learn a new afgan pattern.

Bring along your size J crochet hook and a skein of "Peaches and Cream" yarn for the first night and any project yarn you choose after that. For those looking for more instruction check out some of the crochet books and DVDs we offer at the library. Crochet Basics, by the editors at Vogue Magazine, has some patterns perfect for beginners. Instructional DVDs and even books for left-hand crochet have been popular choices.

Younger crochet enthusiasts will appreciate Crochet Fantastic Jewelry, Hats, Purses, Pillows & More by Jane Davis. A great pattern is included for slippers and the photos in the back will get you started with basic stitches or act as a visual reminder after you leave the workshop.

Crochet with Wire by Nancie M. WIseman proves that crochet is not just for yarn as she takes you through some designs using light gauge wire along with beads and findings. For the rebellious at heart, check out Anticraft: Knitting Beading and Stitching for the Slightly Sinister by Renee Rigdon. Crafting with pagan overtones is presented in some fun projects including "Bad Eggs" and a Skull cross stitch pattern. The Tree of Life and Death is a beaded shine using peyote stiches and advanced beading techniques. The wican skirt might make a hit at the next staff meeting.

Our crochet workshop takes place Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. in the library's community room February 16, 23 and March 2, 9, 16, and 23. Call the reference desk at 440-988-4230 to register or just drop in on whatever dates you can join us.

Playing With Fire

2010-02-02T13:36:00.000-05:00

The Girl Who Played With Fire is the second book in this Stockholm based Millenium trilogy that has sold more than 22 million copies worldwide. When author Stieg Larsson died unexpectedly in 2004 the rights to his manuscripts prompted a legal battle for publishing rights. The plots to ten different novels had been meticulously researched but never sent to print.

The first book in the series, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, introduces readers to Lisbeth Salander and journalist Mikael Blomkvist. Despite all the Swedish street names and towns that can't be typed on a standard keyboard, the plot quickly draws you in and before you know it you're purchasing book three from the United Kingdom because you just can't wait till the American release date in May 2010.

As my one German friend said, "Everyone from my best friend's little sister to my grandmother have all read the entire trilogy and are setting the TiVo for the European television series based on the books", (six episodes, two episodes for each book). Look for an English movie version in the works.

Testing, Testing

2010-02-01T16:54:00.000-05:00

The Best of America's Test Kitchen 2010 by Editors at America's Test Kitchen

Just bought this book over the weekend after realizing you need to register to read any of their online recipes. However the recipe for Maple Glazed Pork Roast that aired January 30 is not the same as the one listed in the 2010 cookbook. They've left out a key ingredient, cornstarch, in the book after claiming it was a secret ingredient in the coating used to brown the meat. So why was it left out of the book? I wonder how many of the other recipes are different.

View all my reviews >>

Check out The Best Light Recipe: a Best Recipe Classic at the Amherst Public Library. We also have several of America's Test Kitchen's DVDs to check out. All are from 2007 but some good recipes and seeing is believing.

Young Spenser

2010-02-01T14:06:00.001-05:00

Author Robert B. Parker, mystery author and creator of the Spenser series, died at his Cambridge, Massachusetts home at the age of 77. With more than 60 books to his credit, and a new one yet to hit bookstands this month, people have returned to the library to read and re-read some of his earlier works.

This weekend I took home Parkers YA book, Chasing the Bear, the first book that offered an insight as to the origins of his popular Spenser character. Published in 2009 the story begins when Spenser is just 14, being raised by his father and two uncles. The story goes back and forth between Spenser's early life and the present day but is easy to follow and chapters are short. While someone not familiar with the Spenser series might have questions about current characters, the voice and pace of the story will quickly draw them in and have them exploring more books by this author. Read more about him in a recent New York Times article.

Bring on the Guys

2010-01-28T13:55:00.000-05:00

Maybe there's too much marketing dedicated to romance books and cozy mysteries, but at the Amherst Public Library we've got something for everyone.

Guys will want to check out the new Halo Encyclopedia, a collection of everything Halo brought to you by DK Publishing, the same folks that put together the Eyewitness books. Great for beginning and advanced players it's a must have for every library where gamers gather.

You've seen the settings so why not read the books? Three novels featuring the Halo war zone are featured in a series of novels. Halo: the fall of Reach, by Eric Nylund is a prequel the the game that gives you the set up for most of the combat senarios. Also check out Halo: First Strike and Halo: the Flood.

There's always an adventure brewing when Alex Rider is on the scene. The latest offering in this series by Anthony Horowitz relies on lots of high tech gadgets that add to the attraction of this Bond-a-rama character. Check out Crocodile Tears in the Young Adult Section.

Graceling up for top ten vote!

2009-09-09T13:09:00.000-04:00

In a world where some people are born with extreme and often-feared skills called Graces, Katsa struggles for redemption from her own horrifying Grace, the Grace of killing, and teams up with another young fighter to save their land from a corrupt king.

Graceling by Kristin Cashore got starred reviews in Booklist and Publishers Weekly when the book debuted in 2008. Imagine if while everyone else was born with an endearing "Grace", your gift was the grace of enforcing death. Lady Katsa uses her unusual gift under the tutelage of her uncle, King Randa. But she begins to question his orders to kill or maim the disgruntled pawns of his kingdom, especially when love comes knocking at her door. The introduction of Po, yes the young and handsome prince from a far off land, makes Lady Katsa question her past actions and wonder, "Hey, there must be a better way".

But can she stand up to her evil uncle while embarking on a quest for self worth and justice? Romance and believable characters highlight this fastasy drama. Check it out, and if it's one of your favorites, make sure and vote for your choice of the Teen's Top Ten!

2009-09-08T12:03:00.000-04:00

2009 Teens' Top Ten Pick

Fans of Ellen Hopkin's (Crank, Glass) will appreciate the continued use of free verse as she tells the story of two identical twins as they struggle with explosive secrets that has torn their family apart. The sixteen-year-old identical twin daughters of a district court judge and a candidate for the United States House of Representatives, Kaeleigh and Raeanne Gardella are on the track to self destruction.

While the girls do well in school and the family appears to be normal, mom is running for Congress and dad is a prominant judge and pillar of the community, everything changes after an accident. The story proceeds to uncover deep family secrets, including sexual abuse, through the use of poems that sometimes mirror the feelings of each girl laid out on facing pages.

Like a television drama, no topic is left untouched. While one teen turns to drug abuse the other struggles with binging and cutting. This shocking book will have Hopkin's fans anticipating a tidy conclusion but the climactic ending will still be a surprise.

Identical is a nominee for the Teens Top 10. To request it from the library, click here. If it’s your favorite, don’t forget to place your vote during Teen Read Week, October 18-24, 2009. Follow the Teens Top 10 link

Awfully Beastly is Right

2009-06-20T15:32:00.000-04:00

An Awfully Beastly Business: Werewolf versus Dragon
Authors: David Sinden, Matthew Morgan, Guy Macdonald

Suggested Grades 3 - 6

Reviewed by: Cheryl Ashton, Amherst Public Library, Amherst, Ohio

The RSPCB, or the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Beasts, is the setting for this series where Ulf, a budding werewolf, is the assistant to Dr. Fielding, a cryptozoologist , who takes in and protects all sorts of beasts in a sort of “Jurassic Park” type setting. Gargoyles, jeepers creepers, electrodactyls, and a jellystoats all share this scientific protected haven until they are able to be released back into the wild.

Ulf appears to be a normal boy as he travels around the compound on his all-terrain vehicle at the bidding of the good Dr. Fielding. But one curt line, “Ulf was beast blood”, lets you know he has a darker calling as the pressure builds leading up to his rib-cracking “transformation” as predicted by the lunar calendar. He sleeps on a bed of straw and keeps friends with a tiny fairy named Tiana and a giant named Orson who help him as he tries to be a hero and do the right thing in a fantasy world where evil, and the odd, coexist.

While the format is styled similar to say the Spiderwick Chronicles or even a Snicket book the underlying theme here is presented in a way that crosses the line from fiendish fun over to the macabre. When a baby dragon is found dead Dr. Fielding performs an autopsy using a chainsaw. With blood spattering her lab coat and descriptions like “It opened like a zipper, and its guts spilled out..”, I’m wondering if the audience being targeted by the cartoon like characters and the larger print and line drawings is somehow being forgotten.

Poachers are setting up a “Ring of Horrors”, beasts fighting to the death amidst a crowd eager to place their bets is not unlike a gladiator scene. The mother dragon is lured into the fight and Ulf must work to save his friend Orson while protecting the mother dragon at the same time.

A spooky library scene offers answers in a book that might shine a light on the nature of some of the beasts involved and gives Ulf the inside information he needs to help solve the mystery behind some of the strange behaviors.

An ornate cover and lots of line illustrations will draw in even reluctant readers but better choices abound for this age group and I’m wondering if this series by three British authors plays better across the ocean. An additional purchase for most libraries, at best.

Horsing around with Doug Kane and Kedja

2009-05-04T11:23:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful day it turned out to be as more than 150 people came to the Amherst Public Library where Doug Kane and his horse Kedja set up to promote their book, Ariel's Journey: Book 1 of the Ice Horse Adventures".

Kedja enjoyed all the attention and kids had fun feeding her bagel snacks.

Ariel's Journey follows five teenage girls as they embark on an overnight trail ride in present-day Pennsylvania and emerge in 1200 A.D. Iceland, pulled back in time by their magical Icelandic Horses.

For a moment there we could almost imagine Kedja with her magical wings.

LifeShare Blood Services was also onhand and many people stopped by to donate blood. It was a great day to be outside and many people passing by stopped to check out the activity at the library.

We're looking forward to the next book in the series. In the meantime, pick up your copy of Ariel's Journey at the library or for sale at area bookstores.

An interview with Mike San Giacomo

2009-04-28T14:17:00.000-04:00

Local author, Mike San Giacomo, stopped by the other day and spoke with us about his graphic novel “Tales of the Starlight Drive-in”. Of course we always talk to authors who bring us free books.

Mike: I’m very excited that my book was nominated for the Best Graphic Novel of 2008 by the Comic Buyer’s Guide.

Book Blogger: For those who have never read your book, can you tell us something about “Tales of the Starlight Drive-in”?

Mike: I wrote all 31 stories in Starlight, all set in a mythical drive-in theater. The stories take place over 50 years and can be read separately, but when read together form a giant novel. It's a giant novel of life, love, failure and redemption.

Book Blogger: Can you tell us about the Comic Buyer’s Guide so we get an idea just how big an honor this is.

Mike: Comic Buyers’s Guide is the second longest-running periodical that reports on the comic book industry and the only one based in the United States. If you’re a writer or illustrator in the comic industry you follow Comic Buyer’s Guide.

Book Blogger: Sort of the Academy Awards of the Comic Book Industry.

Mike: Yep, and here I am shamelessly begging for votes.

Book Blogger: Wow, it’s quite an honor to even be nominated.

Mike: It is very cool to be nominated. Winning would be even cooler.

Book Blogger: So how can we help.

Mike: Anyone can vote in the contest and votes from you and your friends would be nice. I’ve included the link here to the site where you can sign up to vote.

Book Blogger: Wait a minute. I don’t want to have someone calling me or putting me on a mailing list of some sort just because I registered on their web site.

Mike: You won’t be put on a mailing list or anything. It’s a very straightforward contest.

Book Blogger: So why do they need my address?

Mike: You have to submit your name and address because you can only vote once, but husband and/or wife/ mom and or/ dad can also vote if they care to. A win would be great, and you all can help. Voting only takes a minute

Book Blogger: So everyone can vote once and voting continues through May 31.

Mike: Thanks for your help.

Click here to vote

Click here for more info on the book

Check your friendly library shelf

Voting is now open

2009-04-15T13:49:00.000-04:00

Vote now for your choice for Teen Book of the Year. Up for the 2008 award are Breaking Dawn (Stephenie Meyer), The Hunger Games (Suzanne Collins), Lock and Key (Sarah Dessen), Paper Towns (John Green), and Airhead (Meg Cabot).

Voting is easy, just click and submit. What, you haven't read one of these? Then get to the library and pick up a copy.

VOTE HERE

Earthworm farming!

2009-04-15T11:03:00.000-04:00

So mom won't let you have a pet? Start a worm farm and convince her that this is a hands-on ecology lesson. Use a 2-liter plastic bottle with the top cut off, or maybe you have an old aquarium or clear plastic box. A few drain holes in the bottom, sand, dirt, shredded newspaper that you've soaked in water and squeezed out the excess, and PRESTO! You're a worm farmer.

I used worms that I picked up after a recent rain but some websites suggest red wigglers. Whatever worms you use, keep them fed, moist but not wet, and most important - they love to be in the dark. Simply wrap a piece of construction paper around the outside and tape. Mine slides off for easy viewing. After a few days you'll be able to see the worm tracks and castings as they work the soil and recycle their lunch.

For more info check out a book at the library.

Deadline to Read

2009-04-13T15:01:00.000-04:00

Imagine what you would do if you found out you had only one year to live? For Ben Wolf, a high school senior, this was reality and what he chose to do changed the way he saw his family, his friends, and even uncovered some secrets about his small hometown of Trout, Idaho.

Ben chose to keep his eminent death a secret from his friends and even from his brother, Cody. The fear of our personal mortality keeps us all on a sort of moral leash, but undone from this boundry of fear of the unknown, Ben was able to question everything from his history teacher's blessed text book to understanding how his own death would impact those he loved.

Chris Crutcher’s books always take readers on an emotional journey, and DEADLINE is no exception.

The goal of "Choose to Read Ohio", sponsored by the State Library of Ohio, is to encourage the reading of books written by Ohio authors together across Ohio communities. The Amherst Public Library encourages Ohioans to Read Together, Read Ohio, and Read for Life.

For more information on "Choose to Read Ohio" visit their website for a full list of titles for children, teens, and adults. Find Deadline by Chris Crutcher (2007, Harper) at the Amherst Public Library in our Young Adult section (call number YA CRU).

Go Green

2009-03-24T15:40:00.001-04:00

Maybe it was just the recent St. Patrick's Day celebrations or maybe the realization that there is more than one way to "go green" led me to the book "Green For Life" by Victoria Boutanko.

Always looking for a healthier, yet easy, remedy to what ails us, "Green For Life" begins by comparing the normal human diet to that of the chimpanzee. Okay, so I almost returned the book right there but I'm glad that I didn't.

The descriptions of various case studies and people's responses to drinking one quart of green smoothie a day for a month were inciteful and the recipes at the end were great.

I do prefer the sweet versions as opposed to the recipes for savory smoothies. I don't care if one is described as "Igor's Favorite", the addition of red onion and plum tomatoes and garlic were just a little much for me. After trying a few of the recipes though I became comfortable with winging it. Pretty much fill your blender with half greens and half fruit, two cups of filtered water and turn it on. Romaine, turnip greens, and yes, even kale are wonderful examples of cheap greens to use and apples, kiwi, red grapes, and even frozen fruit like bagged strawberries are great to use as long as there's no added sugar.

So drink up.

Never to Early to Get Creative

2009-03-20T16:23:00.000-04:00

Never to early to cook up some plans for the summer. Right now the Amherst Public Library is planning their next "Great American Bake Sale" as part of Share Our Strength's fundraiser to end childhood hunger.

This year you can bring items in for the bake sale that takes place on Saturday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We are looking for donations of baked goods that can be brought to the library before closing on Friday, July 10 before 5 p.m.

But wait! Why not get creative and enter out Creative Cupcake Contest. Yes you could win one of our coveted Golden Spatula awards. Bring in one dozen cupcakes (or the equivalent) for judging and one dozen for the bake sale. Have all items at the Amherst Public Library before 5 p.m. on Friday, July 10. Judging will be after the library closes that Friday and winners will be announced at the bake sale on Saturday.

Judging this year's contest is a special team from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.

You can also donate to our virtual bake sale by visiting our team page. Visit Share Our Strength on line to learn more about this organization's fight against childhood hunger.

While the boss is away...

2009-03-19T14:58:00.000-04:00

When all you do is look at metadata all day you need to take a break. And that's just what happened yesterday as blenders whirred and fruit concoctions like Strawberry Surprize and Mango Mania were downed by thirsty guests.

In reality the guests were teens taking part in the Amherst Public Library's Teen Beach Day. Thirsty students were thankful for the fruity refreshment that went along with beach buckets of popcorn and lots of Guitar Hero on the library's two X-Box 360s.

"This was the best teen event ever" replied on happy guest who even stayed to run the vacuum cleaner. Hey when you can get a teenager to clean up then they must have had fun.

Of course some of the librarians were more than happy to test out some of the recipes before the program began. What exactly was in the blender you ask? Hey, what happens at the library, stays at the library.

The library has books on smoothie recipes and other refreshing drinks to that anyone can replicate the fun at home with just a few simple ingredients. Check out some of the great books we offer here at the library.

Cynthia Clark's 60 Smoothis Sensations

by Cynthia Clark

and Punch

by Colleen Mullaney

Books are Magically Delicious

2009-03-17T17:21:00.000-04:00

It's never too late to learn.

I took a magic class at Jinxed Magic in Brooklyn, Ohio. Located off of Ridge Road this shop specializes in costumes and has a fantastic collection of items for sale and rent. But recently my friend Zap the magician held a five week workshop for anyone interested in magic.

The small group that collected there on Saturday mornings varied greatly in age, say 8 to 88, and there were also a wide level of magic know-how.

If you can't make it to a magic lesson near you, head to the library where videos and books are just waiting to help you with that card trick, disappearing coin, or vanishing rope. Look for books and movies under the call number 793.8. That's Dewey for "Magic".

Oh, and that book on cup and ball tricks....I still have that out.

Nuevos Libros!

2009-03-10T14:04:00.002-04:00

Hola amigos! Me llamo Cheryl and I've got news about some new resources at the Amherst Public Library. We've added a small collection of Spanish language reading materials. Multi-linqual families as well as students and home schoolers are always looking for materials to help them retain and learn Spanish. Now we offer some reading materials that go beyond the regular language tapes.
The library has always had a variety of language books to teach different levels of Spanish, Italian, German, French and even Japanese, Chinese, Hungarian....well, as you can see the list goes on and on.

Visit the children's department of the library to check out some of these new titles:

Diario de Greg un Renacuajo (Diary of a Wimpy Kid)

Ramona la Chinche

Scooby-Doo! yel Castillo Hechizado

Stuart Little

Winny de Puh

Stink el Increible Nino Menguante

El Gran dia de Lily

The Storyteller's Candle La velita de los cuentos

and a great magazine, Iguana, filled with stories, cartoons, puzzles, and great articles about kids from around the world.
If you have ideas for future titles please let us know.
Buenos dias!

2009-03-10T14:04:00.001-04:00

Graphic Tidings of Gladness

2008-01-09T10:35:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to all those who frequent the shelves in our graphic novel section here at the Amherst Public Library. Tired of housing our growing collection on left over shelving and commandeered carts we purchased some brand new shelving that sets a new standard for the new year.

Check out our growing list of manga, anime, and graphic novels. Don't have what you're looking for? Email me with suggestions.

Sub-zero Storytime

2007-02-05T11:27:00.000-05:00

With schools closed due to sub-zero temperatures and newspeople warning about signs of frostbite, some families brought little ones to the library for a lively storytime about winter weather. If you've ever wondered why your snowman is looking a little rugged in the morning you should check out "Snowmen at Night" by Caralyn Buehner. Kids enjoyed learning about the secret life of snowmen and Mrs. Stanley performed a magic trick where MORE snow appeared (as if we didn't have enough already). Other books to ward off cabin fever include "The Biggest Snowman Ever" by Steven Kroll, "Martin MacGregor's Snowman" by Lisa Broadie Cook, and "One Snowy Day" by Jeffrey Scherer.

Computer Konk-out leads to Culinary Craze

2006-04-24T13:43:00.000-04:00

Okay, so it's been a frustrating day and you're looking for something different, like maybe a new life. Well unless you booted up your computer like I did today and found yourself in a time warp back to 2004 then maybe my day has been just a bit more stressful than yours. It appears that due to some glitch, anything I did on my computer at work after November of 2004 has been lost. Yeah, maybe I am ready for a new job, new career. Maybe something in the food business. If you've ever read any books by Ruth Riechl maybe you've thought the same thing.

Well the library does have a variety of books with a food theme. Fast Food, the latest addition of photographic fun by Saxton Freymann shows just how much fun you can have when you play with your food no matter what your mother used to say.

Those wanting a little more meat in their fiction should try Flavor of the Week by Tucker Shaw or My Saucy Stuffed Ravioli: the Life of Angelica Cookson Potts by Cherry Whytock. Angelica Cookson Potts is an English teacher setting of for a trip to Italy and stressing over relationships and getting into that vacation bikini. This can't be fiction, can it. It even includes recipes, very Diane Mott-Davidson.

Teens Cook: How to cook what you want to eat is a cookbook written by teens for teens. Authors Meghan and Jill Carle offer up some great advice on how to be more proficient in the kitchen with most of the recipes offering vegetarian options. Best yet, there are tons of good photos. What's a cookbook without pictures?

If you've watched Super Size Me (our copy is lost) then you might be looking for Fueling the Teen Machine by Ellen L. Shanley and Colleen A. Thompson. Both authors are registered dietitians and cover everything in this book from carbs to fast food.

Iron wok Jan! by Shinji Saijyo combines culinary capers and manga madness in one of the newer offerings in our Graphic Novel section. Imagine Iron Chef with a Japanese teen twist. You might even learn some vague, obscure food trivia while you're at it. We have volumes 1 through 3 but look for more soon.

Meanwhile if you've never read anything by Ruth Reichl, start with Tender at the bone : growing up at the table and finish off with Garlic and Sapphires. Well know for her restaurant reviews for the New York Times, Reichl realized early that she would never be the funniest or prettiest, but she knew the power of food. Hmmm...I bet she didn't let a computer malfunction ruin her day. Where's that cookbook? A chocolate cake does much toward absolving stress. (Ancient library proverb.) I get dibs on licking the bowl.

This is only a test

2006-01-26T13:15:00.000-05:00

Are you an aspiring librarian? Maybe you didn't choose to shadow someone at the library for your class project this week. I realize some people can't handle the pressure of working at a library and choose to shadow other professionals, like doctors and lawyers.

You may want to try your hand at this test that was included in the recent American Library Association newsletter. While there is a link to join an on-line dating web site at the end, you may just skip that section and still see your results. The first time I took the test I qualified for book store clerk. See how well you do.

The Librarian Test

Wickliffe Library Bans Kids

2006-01-11T16:14:00.001-05:00

While Banned Book Week is my favorite holiday I guess we are lucky here at the Amherst Public Library in the fact that we've never banned or censored a book ever, and we don't have a situation where banning kids from the library seems like a reasonable solution.

If you are unfamiliar with Wickliffe's situaion, they have banned kids, ages 14 and younger, from the library during after school hours unless the child is accompanied by a responsible adult. For more information you can check the following link:
http://www.woio.com/Global/story.asp?S=4338149&nav=menu68_2

Working in a public library that is within walking distance to schools has always presented a problem along with an opportunity. We've had occasions where we've asked kids to leave, where the patron population at any one time has an average age of 13, and where working life seems to resemble a circus more than the quiet, hushed library environment I remember from my youth.

But let me say that I'm very proud of the youth that use our library. When we had a problem with kids playing computer games and jumping around on the computers we came up with a solution that worked well for everyone. And for any adult who wonders why they have to wait to check their email when the kids "are just playing games", well they have as much right to be there as anyone else. Everyone is treated equally weather you get here using your Volvo or your Volcom.

I feel bad that a library reached such a critical point that banning kids was their only solution. On the other hand maybe there are a few adults we could ban unless they are accompanied by a child under the age of 10. Let me work on that...

Beyond Narnia @ the Amherst Public Library

2006-01-07T12:43:00.001-05:00

Yalsa, the young adult component of the American Library Association, has come up with a booklist for those teens looking for something beyond Narnia. With the movie bringing a new generation of readers to the classic series “Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis kids are looking for more literary journeys that go beyond the wardrobe. While the Yalsa list is nice I think they left off some great books and the fantasy series list had already been done.

Here’s books I would suggest if you stopped at my desk at the
Amherst Public Library:

Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale
-by Holly Black
Kaye is a sixteen year old modern nomad of sorts who knows life on the road as she travels from city to city with her mother’s rock band. Having a mother who is a rocker can be one thing, but when Kaye if forced to return to her blue-collar roots she soon finds herself involved in a struggle between two rival faerie kingdoms that puts her world, no her life, in peril. We have three copies of this book that we can’t keep on the shelf! Look for the sequel, Valiant: A Modern Tale of Faerie.

Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass
-by Lewis Carroll
What better Narnia follow-up than exploring this classic that should be on every library shelf. Written well before Narnia was even conceived, Alice was a girl ahead of her time. Take another look at Alice as she experiences a strange world that includes a violent queen, and a hookah-smoking caterpillar.

Inkheart
-by Cornelia Funke
I love a book with German roots and any book that has within it a reference to libraries or books. Score double points with this offering by a German author that introduces Meggie, a young loner who leads a quiet life with her father, a book-binder. But when a sinister stranger arrives one day, a long lost secret in her father’s past pits Meggie in a game that has her playing for her life. Don’t miss the next installment, Inkspell.

Faerie Wars
-by Herbie Brennan
I like any kid who is willing to help clean. That’s why I was drawn to Henry Atherton who agrees to help out old Mr. Fogarty clean out his house. But when Henry finds more than just your common dust and clutter he enlists the help of his sister to help him on his journey to return a member of royalty to his proper home. Hey, they time travel with the use of trapped lightening. How cool is that.

Other books to check out:
Half-Magic
-by Edward Eager
They recently printed a special 50 year anniversary edition of this classic.

A Wrinkle in Time
-by Madeleine L’Engle
There was a wrinkle in the time continuum long before Star Trek made one famous.

Summerland
-by Michael Chabon
Ethan Feld, the worst baseball player in the history of the game, finds himself recruited by a 100-year-old scout to help a band of fairies triumph over an ancient enemy. The four alternate worlds include the Winterland, the Summerland, the Midling (Earth) and the Gleaming. If the fact that baseball has become a hang up, now Ethan must travel through time to look for his kidnapped father.

I Need a Summer Reading Theme!

2006-01-05T13:03:00.000-05:00

Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales (not)

I'm looking for ideas for our library's summer reading program theme. The state of Ohio has joined in with other states in the collaborative program "Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales" but besides being way too long of a name to remember, let alone write down, I just thought we could come up with something better.

Here are a few ideas:

"Go Wild - Read!"
"It's a Jungle Out There"
"Wild About Reading"

I'm at a loss. I like the idea of "Wild" because we can incorporate an animal theme into our program to parallel the state theme but I'm open to ideas. We could have "wild" prizes, "wild" programs, and maybe some "wild" books to go along with some of the other just plain wild things going on here at the library. How about turning the upstairs into a jungle?

If you have an idea - post it. I'm looking at some great prizes for this year and I need to get some things on order by the end of the month. I'd like one theme we can use for both kids, teens, and adults.

Also for the state theme we would have had to have our prize order in before Thanksgiving. I mean what kind of system is that. We were in the middle of storytimes, holiday planning, and craft day and they want you to coordinate your summer program. Send me your ideas!

Can we do something with instant messaging, rock and roll, and computers?

Hockey Books

2006-01-03T10:36:00.000-05:00

Okay, you want to know about more sport books? You liked Open Ice by Pat Hughes but now you want more hockey facts? Here's some of the books we have at our library:

These books deal with coaching and conditioning

52-week Hockey Training
Don MacAdam, Gail Reynolds
796.962 MAC
2002

Bobby Hull’s Hockey Made Easy
Bobby Hull, with Roy G. Nelson
796.962 HUL
1983

Goal Scoring
Sean Rossiter
J 796.962 ROS
1997

Goal Tending
Sean Rossiter
J 796.962 ROS
1997

Hockey
John Wright
796.962 WRI
2004

Hockey for the Coach, the Player, and the Fan
Fred Shero and Andre Beaulieu
796.962 SHE
1979

The Illustrated Rules of Ice Hockey
Tom Ayers
J 796.962 AYE
1995

Kid’s Book of Hockey: Skills, Strategies, Equipment, and the rules of the game
John Sias
J 796.962 SIA
1997

Skating for Power & Speed: Hockey the NHL Way
Sean Rossiter, Paul Carson
796.962 ROS
2002

Total Hockey Conditioning: from Pee-wee to Pro
Tudor Bompa, Dave Chambers
J 796.962 BOM
2003

Coaching Hockey Successfully
Dennis “Red” Gendron
796.962 GEN
2001

Other Interesting Hockey Books
Kids’ Hockey: the Parents’ Guide
Gary Abraham
796.962 ABR

The Hockey Mom’s Manual
Laurel Phillips and Barbara Stahl
796.962 PHI
2001

Hockey Now!
Mike Leonetti
796.962 LEO
2003

Ice Time: a tale of fathers, sons, and hometown heroes
Jay Atkinson
796.962 ATK
2001

Thunder and Lightning: a no-b.s. Hockey Memoir
Phil Esposito and Peter Golenbock
B ESPOSITO
2003

The Unofficial Guide to Hockey’s Most Unusual Records
Don Weekes, Kerry Banks
796.962 WEE
2002

Ballad of the Whiskey Robber: a true story of bank heists, Ice Hockey, Transylvanian Pelt Smuggling, Moonlighting Detectives, and Broken Hearts
Julian Rubinstein
364.15 RUB
2004

Hat Trick Trivia: Secrets, Statistics, and Little-known Facts about Hockey
Bruce Adelson
J 796.962 ADE
1999

Fiction

The Chicken Doesn’t Skate
Gordon Korman
JF KOR
1996

Boxcar Children-80: The Hockey Mystery
Gertrude Warner
Child Paperback B

Open Ice
Pat Hughes
YA HUG
2005

The Hockey Machine
Matt Christopher
JF CHR
1986

Ice Magic
Matt Christopher
JF CHR
1973

Penalty Shot
Matt Christopher
JF CHR
1997

Arthur and the Goalie Ghost
Text by Stephen Krensky
JF BRO
2001

Mystery Round-up

2005-12-28T17:06:00.000-05:00

Okay, you have to read a mystery book over school break. Let's see, people tell you the only mystery books written are by Agatha Christie and Mary Higgins Clark. Well wake up and smell the coffee. There are some great new books out there just for teens as well as some great classics to fit the bill.

Check it out!
Acceleration - by Graham McNamee

This fast-moving and sometimes disturbing story will keep readers riveted.- Good for older readers looking for nonstop action and a mature read.

The Beekeeper's Apprentice, or on the segregation of the queen - by Laurie R. King

In his retirement, the great detective Sherlock Holmes grooms a young woman to follow in his footsteps. 15-year-old Mary Russell and the elderly beekeeper Holmes are led into a series of adventures which escalate in gravity until Holmes is in peril of his life. At the frightening climax, the maturing Mary proves herself a worthy partner and successor.

I thought all the Mary Russell books were great. Part history, part classic, they're a great read.

Finding Lubchenko - by Michael Simmons

When his father is framed for murder and bioterrorism, high-school junior Evan, using clues from a stolen laptop, travels from Seattle to Paris with two friends to find the real culprit.

South by Southeast - Anthony Horowitz

Fourteen-year-old Nick and his bumbling detective brother Tim Diamond investigate a mystery involving international spies and assassins.

Sort of like James Bond meets the Hardy Boys. Another good series by this author is the Alex Rider mysteries: Point Blank, Scorpia, Skeleton Key.

All of these pack a lot of action into one short paperback. Good for those who hate the thought of having to pick up a book at all outside the classroom.

Hurricane Power - by Sigmund Brouwer

After he moves to Miami, seventeen-year-old David, who is an unusually fast runner, gets invited to join the Hurricanes' track team, but he soon finds himself mixed up in a mystery involving a toy gun, a Cuban American boy, and the gang called the Black Roses.

Sports and a mystery - hey why is this one still on the shelf?

Okay, get the idea?
Here's a few others to try:

I Know What You Did Last Summer - by Lois Duncan (classic fare)
In the Middle of the Night - by Robert Cormier
How to Disappear Completely and Never Be Found - by Sara Nickerson
The House on the Gulf - by Margaret Peterson Haddix
The Man in the Woods - by Rosemary Wells
Minerva Clark Gets a Clue - by Karen Karbo
Never Trust Dead Man- by Vivian Vande Velde
The Name of the Game was Murder - by Joan Lowery Nixon
Of Heroes and Villians - by Mark Delaney
The Ruby in the Smoke - by Philip Pullman
Public Enemy Number Two - by Anthony Horowitz
Tightrope - by Gillian Cross
The Vanishing Chip - by Mark Delaney
Batman: the Ultimate Evil - by Andrew Vachss

New Year, New Books

2005-12-27T14:48:00.000-05:00

It's a new year, well pretty soon, and we have a lot of new books at the Amherst Public Library. I was trying to think of a new way to let you know about some of these great books and decided to hit the Internet and try my hand at blogging.

Let me know what you think of some of these and as always, send me any ideas you have for new kids or young adult books.

Macaroni Boy - by Katherine Ayers
Published 2004, 187 pages
JF-AYE

Need a historical fiction book for that report that's due Friday? This one might be perfect. In Pittsburgh in 1933, sixth-grader Mike Costa notices a connection between several strange occurrences, but the only way he can find out the truth about what's happening is to be nice to the class bully.

Andy Warhol: Prince of Pop - by Jan Greenberg
Published 2004
193 pages

Did you know Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh? Learn more about this Prince of Pop Art, like what was the deal with Marilyn Monroe, and why Campbell's Soup?

Open Ice - by Pat Hughes
Published 2005

I just finished this book. I had originally given it to a junior high hockey player who needed a book for a language arts report. He never read it - I'm not sure what he did for his report. But needing a quick read one day I opened it up. Well written, the book chronicles Nick Taglio and his experience with the hard-hitting sport of hockey. Forced to quit the game due to a brain injury Nick learns about life off the ice. I did tell that certain student that after reading this book myself I wasn't comfortable giving him a book with as many references to sex, drugs, and rock and roll and that it was a good thing he didn't read it. (Yes, I've studied a bit of reverse psychology myself). Better put this one on reserve.