Volunteers Appreciated at Maitland Library September 11th

On Friday at 1:30 p.m., in its first annual Volunteer Appreciation
Reception, Maitland Library honored the 65+ volunteers and presenters who went the extra mile this last year to provide library users with information, entertainments, and essential services.

Karen Potter, the library's director, gave the opening address, thanking all the library's volunteers 7 times.

Ed Winn, Florida author and historian, spoke about his memories of the library, and donated several of his books on CD-Rom.

Author Chick O'Brien gave a tribute to the bravery of his relatives, 2 firefighters in New York City during 9/11/01.

Local businesses, including Qdoba's Mexican Grill, Kappy's Subs, Quizno's Sub, Firehouse Subs, and Publix Super Market supplied most of the delicious and hearty refreshments. Karen Potter provided the banana bread.

Guests included the Library Board, Friends of the Library, local authors and informational presenters, and two companies of Maitland firefighters.

What a Summer!

This was my first year in charge of the kids and teen summer library program, and I can't believe how fast it went by! Everyone seemed to have a lot of fun; check it out for yourself-->

Kids make pasta necklaces and candy sculptures:

Kevin King the magician stops by for a fun show:

Teens paint the windows in the gallery:

Artwork created by teens at our Coffee Painting class:

Thanks for participating this year. I'm looking forward to next year's theme of "Make a Splash @ your Library!"

Michelle Swiat

Youth Services Librarian

What's Brewing? Coffee Talk - Bill and Shawne Shared Facts and Tastes

What harvesting process can the terms "fruit," "seed," "cherry," and "bean" all be used to describe? Picking coffee, of course!

Bill Keevan, Jr., with the assistance of his wife Shawne, deftly illlustrated 4 of at least 6 ways to brew coffee this last Sunday.

He also told a rapt audience where coffee comes from, how it is processed, how he chose the brand he sells, and how to make the best cup possible.

Bill and his wife run Olde Cup and Saucer specialty tea and coffee shop in Longwood, and obviously love sharing their experience with fellow tea and coffee lovers as much as they enjoy drinking what they sell.

The couple have given 2 presentations at Maitland Library, on hot tea, and iced tea, and we hope they will come again soon (after their new daughter Eliza is born, of course). It is always a tasty expericence!

"Master the Art of Reading " End-of-Summer Chili Cook-Off and Fundraiser August 13th

Lorraine Hardaway, Katie and Robert Breaux relax after judging.

Lorraine Hardaway, Katie and Robert Breaux, Dennis, and Philip Chien volunteered to taste the 6 chilies submitted, and awarded 7 certificates.

The categories were: Hottest Chili, Mildest Chili, Most Unique Chili, Best Vegetarian Chili, Meatiest Chili, and Best Overall Chili.

Pat Russell holds the ticket box while Dennis Larson picks (and wins!) the first door prize, as Barbara Larson looks on.

Steve Grant won Hottest, Janet Andrews won both Mildest and Most Unique Chilies, Pat Russell won Best Vegetarian, Ed Anthony took the Meatiest Chili category, and Karen Gallagher won Best Overall.

The Maitland Wine Market donated the first of four door prizes, a bottle of white wine, won by Dennis Larson. First Watch restaurant supplied the iced tea and lemonade, and the peach cobbler was from Shane's Rib Shack. Maitland Library donated the Texas Toast and canned sodas. Good fun was had by all! We look forward to another Chili Cook-off when the weather is cooler.

See below for some of the chili recipes submitted.

Janet Andrews and her 2-award-winning Buffalo Plaid Chili.

Karen Gallagher and her Best- Overall Bush's White Chicken Chili .

Pat Russell with her Chunky Vegetarian Chili.

RECIPES:

Award for the Hottest Chili (Steve Grant):

Navajo Beef And Chile Stew
3 pound lean beef stew meat ; cut 3/4 " cubes
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can ready-cut tomatoes with juice - (14 1/2 oz)
1 can diced green chiles - (7 oz) drained
1 can whole-kernel corn - (8 1/2 oz) undrained
1 teaspoons dried oregano leaves, crushed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground red pepper
2 tablespoon yellow cornmeal

Combine all ingredients, except cornmeal, in a slow cooker, mixing well. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or until meat is tender.
20 Minutes before serving:
Turn control to HIGH. Stir in cornmeal. Cover and cook on HIGH 20 to 25 minutes.

Awards for both Mildest Chili and Most Unique Chili (Janet Andrews):

Buffalo Plaid Chili

1 small red onion
1 small white onion
1 pound buffalo burger
1 pound buffalo steak sliced into small pieces
some virgin olive oil
2 cans black beans, drained
2 cans red kidney beans, drained
2 large cans diced tomatoes
3 heaping tablespoons chili pepper (or more if you want)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
pinch of oregano
salt to taste - start with 1 tablespoon
masa flour to thicken

In a large soup pot sauté onions in oil for a few minutes, add meat to brown, breaking up the ground meat into small pieces. When meat is browned, add tomatoes with liquid, beans, chili, cumin, oregano, and some salt. Simmer mixture for an hour or so, stirring once in a while. Check taste, add salt, more chili, or any other spice you want - let simmer a while longer. If you want to thicken the liquid, add 2 or 3 tablespoons of masa flour to a half cup of warm water, stir until the lumps are gone, then slowly pour into the chile while stirring. Simmer another 30 minutes.

Award for Best Overall Chili (Karen Gallagher):

Bush’s White Chicken Chili

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chiles, drained
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 (16 ounce) cans BUSH'S® BEST Great Northern Beans
1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
1 1/2 cups finely chopped cooked chicken breast
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Sour cream (optional)
Salsa (optional)

1. In large skillet, cook onion in oil for 4 minutes or until transparent. (As an option, all ingredients can now be put in a crock pot and cooked 6-8 hours on Low). Add chilies, flour and cumin; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Add beans and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes or until thickened. Add chicken; cook until hot.
2. Garnish with cheese, sour cream and salsa, if desired.

August 10th "Master the Art of Reading" prize drawing results

And the winner of the August 10th prize drawing, the final one for the summer, for an RCA MP3 player is…Dorothy!

She recommended The Franklin Affair by Jim Lehrer: “Interesting historical mystery.”

And the runners up are…

Relentless by Dean Koontz, recommended by Patty: "Just sit back and enjoy!'

All the Colors of Darkness by Peter Robinson, reviewed by Barbara: “9 out of 10”

Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer, reviewed by Cynthia: "Just OK.”

Eclipse, New Moon, and Twilight, all by Stephanie Meyer, reviewed by Cynthia.

Dante's Numbers by David Hewson, recommended by Barbara: "9 of 10."

Sliver of Truth by Lisa Unger recommended by Barbara: "10 of 10."

My Life in Paris by Julia Child, reviewed by Jennifer: “So enjoyed this book! I was fascinated to learn that Julia had never cooked until she was 36. Late start and look at the impact she had on society!”

If You Can’t Lose It, Decorate It by Anita Renfoe, reviewed by Jean.

While I Was Gone by Sue Miller, reviewed by Jean.

The Tarnished Eye by Judith Guest, reviewed by Dorothy: “Guest is very good at defining characters and the story definitely holds your interest.”

Congratulations to all the Maitland Library winners this summer!

Door prizes and prizes for the 3 best pots of chili will be given at our Master the Art of Reading End-of-Summer Chili Cook-off and fundraiser Thursday, August 13th, from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m..

August 3rd "Master the Art of Reading" Drawing entries

The winner of the August 3rd prize drawing for one $25 Gift Certificate to PF Chang’s China Bistro is… Lya!

She reviewed The Wrong Man by John Katzenback, and said it was OK.

And the runners up are…

Strawberry Girl by Lois Lenski, recommended by Natalie: “This was a good read about historical fiction placed in Florida.”

Clementine by Sara Pennypacker, recommended by Natalie: “The girl is adorable. Fun and endearing, the story brings me back to my life at that age.”

Mandy by Julie Andrews Edwards, recommended by Natalie: “A cute story and sweet characters. It was a fun read but will never be a favorite for me.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Lewis Stevenson, recommended by Natalie:”Finally I have read the story that was referred to throughout my life. It is intriguing and thought-provoking. I find myself catching my own “Mr. Hyde” at times.

Happy for No Reason by Marci Schimoff, recommended by Natalie: “I love this book! It gives very practical information on how we can all live lives in a more happy state.”

Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne, recommended by Natalie: “This book has an interesting story line but I found the characters so dry. I enjoyed the movie version over the book.”

Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe, recommended by Natalie: “I could barely put this book down. What an eye-opener to a world of slavery!”

Adams vs. Jefferrson by John Farling, recommended by Bonnie: “If you are a history buff great, if not, too long & detailed.”

Angel’s Game by Carlos Ruiz Zafon, recommended by Jean. “This supernatural mystery/thriller/love story is truly a page-turner! The writing is vivid & the story enthralling- I didn’t want it to end.”

The Apostle by Brad Thor, recommended by Katie: “A doctor is kidnapped in Afghanistan (the daughter of a very rich woman and close friend of the president of the U.S.). Harvath is sent to find her- very exciting- while at home an S. S. agent investigates an accident that killed 5 people and it leads to the President. Very entertaining!”

Desert Queen by Janet Wallach, recommended by Marianna: “Hard going, but most informative regarding the development of the Middle East.”

Something on the Side by Carl Weber, recommended by Sabrina: “It was very excited about the 4 main characters and each of their stories. I was especially interested in Tammie. I was not happy that she got away scott-free and kept her husband after all the mischief that she started and caused. I hope Mr. Weber will rectify this in the next installment.”

Summer House by Nancy Thayer, recommended by Marilyn.

Annapurna: A Woman’s Place by Arlene Blum, recommended by Sally.

Shanghi Darling by Arasla Bacon, recommended by Sheila.

Beach House by James Patterson, recommended by Sheila

Shanghi Moon by S.J. Rozan, recommended by Sheila.

Promises in Death by J. D. Robb, reviewed by Barbara: “10”


Just OK:

Black Hills by Nora Roberts, reviewed by Katie: “Lil & Coop are childhood friends who fall in love, but are too young. They meet again later at Lil’s Wildlife Refuge. A crazy man who disapproves of the Refuge tries to murder Lil. It wasn’t that good, but I was interested enough to finish it.”

While I Was Gone by Sue Miller, recommended by Jean.

Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri, recommended by Marianna: “I liked her first short story book “Interpreter of Maladies” much better – I really enjoyed that one, and recommend it.”


Boos:

Swimsuit by James Patterson, reviewed by Katie: (she said it was no good).

Swimming by Nicole Keegan, reviewed by Patricia: “Awful…If you were not crazy before reading this, you will be after it.”

Nuclear Jellyfish by Tim Dorsey, reviewed by Patricia: “A terrible read. Can’t believe I read the whole book searching for redemption that never came!”

Home Staging: The Winning Way to Sell Your House for Money by Barb Schwarz, reviewed by Natalie: “The book was mostly a push for using home stagers trained at her school. There was some practical information but I think this can easily be found in other books without having to read through her shameless promotion.”

July 27th "Master the Art of Reading" Drawing Winner and Runners-up Reviews

And the winner of the July 27th prize drawing for one $25 Gift Certificate to Antonio’s Ristorante is…
Jean!

She recommended Revenge of the Apple: Venganza de la Manzana by Alicia Portnoy.

And the runners up are…

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See, recommended by Anonymous: “Excellent. Great details of Chinese life in this historical period. Sad.”

Culture Warrior by Bill O’Reilly, recommended by Anonymous.

The Angel’s Game by Carlos Ruiz Zafson, recommended by Patricia: “Very different, mysterious, gripping, diabolical, a next best-seller!”

Oh Johnny by Jim Lehrer, recommended by Dorothy: “Lehrer at his best. An unusual war/love story.”

The Story Sisters by Alice Hoffman, recommended by Dorothy: “A gripping story by one of our best storytellers.”

Fatally Flaky by Diane Mott Davidson, recommended by Alice: “I’ve read all of this series – feel this latest is one of the best.”

Hiding in the Spotlight by Greg Dawson, recommended by Sheila.

Hiding in the Spotlight by Greg Dawson, recommended by Katie: “I thought it was incredible: 2 young girls could survive such madness – amazing story and told well!”

Driftwood Summer by Patti Callahan Henry, recommended by Marilyn.

Annie’s Ghosts by Steve Luxenbery, recommended by Sheila: “A very unusual family saga, but how true!”

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga, recommended by Monika: “Awesome read!”

Night of the Howling Dogs by Graham Salisbury, recommended by Terri.

The Kills by Linda Fairstein, recommended by Barbara: “10 of 10.”

Paths of Glory by Jeffrey Archer, recommended by Robert: “Even someone who doesn’t normally go for this author will love this book – 4 Bravos!”

Toxic Childhood by Sue Palmer, recommended by Aura: “This book was amazing – full of insight and great ideas for parenting and for building a better society for all of us.”

Not Becoming My Mother by Ruth Reichl, recommended Pat: “Barely longer than essay-length, this book illuminates the road blocks put in the way of talented, career-minded women in the 1950’s, and how Ruth’s mother ultimately succeeded in finding contentment, despite these, and managed to steer her daughter clear of these road blocks. Ruth realized after her mother’s death that she acted the way she did toward her daughter so her daughter wouldn’t make the same mistakes and “be like her.” A short and fulfilling read.

Just OK:

Knock Out by Catherine Coulter, reviewed by Katie: “- year-old Autumn can communicate with FBI agent Dillon and they don’t use normal ways. Autumn’s paternal family is trying to get her away from her mother because of her talents and Dillon is also chasing 2 murdering bank robbers. It just wasn’t too good.”

Boos:

The Private Life of the Cat Who…Tales of Koko and Yum Yum by Lilian Jackson Brown, reviewed by Michelle: “The book is very choppy, not a good reading flow. May be a good short read to keep in the powder room.”

11: Indispensable Relationships You Can’t Be Without by Leonard Sweet, reviewed by Dave.

July 20th "Master the Art of Reading" Drawing Winner and Other Books Reviewed

The winner of the 3 contemporary books and 2 music CDs from Borders is...
Katie, who wrote about Heart of the World by Linda Barnes:

“It was wonderful – a visit to Bogota (which is the only way I’d go).”

Other entries included:

Bravos:

The Linnet Bird by Linda Holeman, reviewed by Doris: “I was glued to all 416 pages of this historical fictionalized tale of Victorian England, and its captivating protagonist, Linny Gow. At age 11, she was sold into prostitution, but learned how to survive. A terrifying, fascinating page-turner.”

My Life in France by Julia Child, reviewed Doris: “This is a delightful autobiography of Julia Child’s love affair with France and French cuisine. Her quirky sense of humor and unique style make for a fascinating tale, told very well.”

Night and Day by Robert B. Parker, reviewed by Dorothy: “Jess Stone is just enough different from Spenser to keep your interest. Good, fast read.”

Doomsday Key by James Rollins, reviewed by Glenda.

Persuasion by Jane Austen, reviewed by Elinor.

Shanghai Girls by Lisa See, reviewed by Katie: “The first book I’ve read by See. Very informative about Angel Island and paper sons or daughters, plus the characters were wonderful – I cared about them!”

1001 Paintings You Must See Before You Die by Stephen Farthing, general editor, reviewed by Jean.

Deep Pockets by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie: “Barnes ties everything together really well – she writes a good book.”

Rough Weather by Robert B. Parker, reviewed by Dorothy: “The usual snazzy dialogue Parker excels in.”

The Creek by J.T. Glisson, reviewed Joy: “I loved this book. It’s a great book for native Floridians or anyone who is interested in Florida before all the development. This is a must-read for fans of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings (author of The Yearling and Cross Creek).

Look Again by Lisa Scottoline, reviewed by Michelle: “Thought-provoking. A quick and easy read because you don’t want to put this book down.”

Day of the Dead by J.A. Jance, reviewed by Barbara: “10 of 10.”

The Women by T.C. Boyle, by Elinor.

Loving Frank by Nancy Horan, reviewed by Elinor.

Immoral by Brian Freeman, reviewed by K.: “One of the best first novels I’ve read. Very complex but also quite readable. Quite a story – left me waiting to read the next one in the series.”

Long Lost by Harlan Coban, reviewed by Barbara: “10 of 10.”

Flashpoint by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie: “Carlotta is truly interesting – half Jewish and half Irish in the city of Boston…she recovers a rare Medieval Judaica.”

Walk the Blue Fields by Marilynne Robinson, reviewed by Jean: “Excellent collection of short stories set in Ireland.”

A Dog Named Christmas by Greg Kincaid, reviewed by Michelle: “This book is a little corny. It reminds us that some of the best gifts should be gratefully-received as well as given.”

Boos:
True Detectives by Jonathan Kellerman, reviewed Patricia: “Great writer as a rule, but this book was not up to his standards.”

Harry Potter Night was Magical! - July 14

On Tuesday, July 14, MPL found out there are a number of wizards in Maitland. In attendance were Harry, Hermione, Luna, Ron, a few other Gryffindors, some Slytherins, Ravenclaws, and Hufflepuffs. There were even a few Muggles.

The evening opened with the students being greeted at the door by Headmistress Dingledong and the Sorting Hat. Once the Sorting Hat determined which House the wizard belonged, they entered Hogwarts and joined their House. Once all the students were sorted, Headmistress welcomed the students and introduced the Hogwarts Professors and House Elves.

Professors Gray, Trelawney, Sprout instructed the students on Potions, Magical Creatures, and Herbology. Throughout the event, each House earned points either by answering trivia questions about the Harry Potter Series, class participation, and behavior. Gryffindor House accumulated the most points and won the opportunity to visit the Leaky Cauldron first.

The Leaky Cauldron served Dragon Scales, Chocolate Frogs, and, of course, Bernie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.

Thanks to all who made HP Night a success!

Wii Gaming for Seniors!

Our second Wii Gaming for Seniors was held on Wed. July 8. We were a little slow in getting started because of Florida afternoon storms, but a few of participants did stop by and played a few games of tennis, bowling, and billards. One of our teen volunteers gave instructions of how to play the games.
Our next Senior Wii event is Wednesday, August 5 @ 1:30 p.m.

July 13th "Master the Art of Reading" Drawing Winner and runners-up

The winner of the 2 First Watch entres is...

Joanne , who reviewed LeMay : The Life and Wars of General Curtis LeMay by Warren Kozak!

She writes," An excellent biography of General LeMay. He could and would do everything!"

The runners-up are:
BRAVOs:

Roadside Crosses by Jeffery Deaver, reviewed by P.A. :"Surprise ending. Tells interesting things about the possible destruction of lives due to the modern computer, games, blogs, etc.."

Lust for Life by Irving Stone, reviewed by Nancy: "One of the best books I have ever read!"

Trouble of Fools by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie.

Big Dig by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie: "I've just discovered Barnes - I intend to read them all! Carlotta is great! :)"

Dead Eyes by Stuart Woods, reviewed by Joanne: "Another story that holds your interest to the very end."

Florida's Hurricane History by Jay Barnes, reviewed by Tracy: "Interesting book. Let's hope we don't have any hurricanes to add to it this year. Amen."

Selected Poems by Gwendolyn Brooks, reviewed by Jean.

Murder One by William Bernhardt, reviewed by P.A.: "Great read- couldn't put the book down!"

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, reviewed by Melissa.

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga, reviewed by Lucy.

The Lost: A Search for Six of Six Million by Daniel Mendelsohn, reviewed by Lucy.

The Skinny: On Losing Weight Without Being Hungry by Louise Anonne, reviewed by Monika.

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout, reviewed by Karen: "Very interesting series of stories in a town in Maine with one character as a common thread."

Slow Kill by Michael McGarrity, reviewed by Barbara: "8 out of 10."

Resilience by Elizabeth Edwards, reviewed by Jean: "A beautifully-written, heart-wrenching reflection on the adversities of life faced by Elizabeth Edwards: the death of her young son, her cancer diagnoses, and the adulterous affair of her husband John."

Snapshot by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie.

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, reviewed by Anonymous:"One of the most entertaining books I've read. I lived her every moment right with the author as she told her quest for love and what she went through to find it. She has such a talent for description, I could taste what she ate and visualize what she saw."

Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls, reviewed by Anonymous: " You could feel the pain of the author as she wrote about her disadvantaged life, growing up poor and then realizing her mother chose to ignore the fortune that she had to live a life of extreme poverty. The ending was at least more uplifting, as the author had become a very successful professional. I like true stories better than novels, and this story was gripping."

Snake Tattoo by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie.

Hardware by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie:"Love Carlotta!"

Dead Silence by Randy Wayne White, reviewed by Barbara: "9 out of 10, where 10 is Bravo!"

Steel Guitar by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie.

The Dispossessed by Ursula LeGuin, reviewed by Rochelle: "This book bordered on the philosophical at times, which I really enjoyed. I also loved the discourses comparing and contrasting various forms of government with anarchism, talking about the merits and pitfalls of each, but still leaving it up to the reader to draw their own conclusions. Someone had recommended this book to me, and I am glad I actually read it!"

Such a Pretty Fat by Jennifer Lancaster, reviewed by Mary.

Bright Lights, Big Ass by Jennifer Lancaster, reviewed by Mary.

Bitter is the New Black by Jennifer Lancaster, reviewed by Mary.

BOOs:
Promises in Death by J. D. Robb, reviewed by Dorothy: “I did not like the main character in this story and I found much of the plot unbelievable.”

Tuesday, July 14th - Harry Potter Night!

Come dressed as your favorite character, visit with Hogwarts professors, play games, and have a lot of Wizardry fun!

For reservations, call 407-647-7700.

July 6th "Master the Art of Reading" Drawing Winner and Other Books Reviewed

The winner of the Sip and Knit class, hand-dyed wool yarn, and bamboo knitting needles is...

Doris! She gave a Bravo to The Septembers of Shiraz by Dalia Sofer.

And the runners-up are….

Bravos:

Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton, reviewed by Doris.

Home by Marilynne Robinson, by Jean.

Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult, reviewed by Katie: “A love story and a story of motherhood – really good!”

Pictures at an Exhibition by Sara Houghteling, reviewed by Eliane: “Very good. It gives a very good impression of the art galleries in Paris and what happened during the war and afterward.”

Blue Boy by Rakesh Satyl, reviewed by Michele: “Growing up gay in an Indian family. Extraordinary!”

Rescuing Sprite by Mark Levin, reviewed by Michelle: An endearing story of a beloved pet named Sprite. Her powerful impact on the hearts of the family members who adopted her. So cherished and adored!”

Envy the Night by Michael Koryta, reviewed by P.A.: “Good, exciting read!”

Smoke Screen by Sandra Brown, reviewed by Joan: “I’ve read a lot of Sandra Brown’s books and always enjoy them.”

Shell Game: Reflections on Rowing by Stephen Kiesling, reviewed by Peter.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon, reviewed by Myrna: “Great insight into autism and a good surprise.”

Mounting Fears (Will Lee series, #7) by Stuart Woods, reviewed by J.: “Not as captivating as some of his other books, but a fast read for a summer day.”

The Amateur Marriage by AnneTyler, reviewed by Doris: “5 stars.”

My Stroke of Insight by Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph. D, reviewed by Doris: “”2 stars.”

Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber, reviewed by Michelle: “If you enjoyed the movie, “The Bucket List,” you will enjoy “Twenty Wishes.” I’m starting my own list!’

I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron, reviewed Michelle: “Anyone over 50 will enjoy the hilarity of life Nora Ephron shares in this book.”

The Soloist by Steve Lopez, reviewed by Jane: “This was a wonderful book. It really enlightens one on mental illness and shows a beautiful connection with friendship and music.”

Last Train to Paradise: Henry Flagler and the Spectacular Rise and Fall of the Railroad that Crossed an Ocean by Les Standiford, reviewed by Linda: “(3 stars) Wonderful, fascinating account of Flagler’s life and the horrific hurricane that struck the Keyes in 1935. I’m a native Floridian and I learned a lot about my state.”

Cold Case by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie: “I’m going to get more by Barnes – I love Carlotta!”

Finger Lickin’ Fifteen by Janet Evanovich, reviewed by Katie: “So much fun – I just love the dialogue!! I laugh out loud!!”

Dead or Alive by Michael McGarrity, reviewed by P. A.: “Action-packed, never a dull moment.”

Boca Knights by Steve M. Forman, reviewed by Barbara.

Still Life by Joy Fielding, reviewed by Barbara (a “9”, where 1 is the worst and 10 the best).

Boos:
Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley, reviewed by Yvette.

Shell Game: Reflections on Rowing by Stephen Kiesling, reviewed by Terri: “OK.”

A Dog About Town by J. F. Englert, reviewed by Michelle: “ I read the first 100 pages and it just didn’t capture me. A couple good dog books are: “A Dog Year” by Jon Katz (the irony), and “Marley and Me” by John Grogan.

Mixed Up With the Mob by Ginny Aiken, reviewed by Samina: “I never felt as if I wanted to find out what happens. I found it easy to put the book down which is nearly impossible when I am enjoying a piece of writing. It was OK, not exceptional.”

Dirty Laundry by Paula Woods, reviewed by Joanne: “Maybe just me, but neither the plot nor the characters held my interest.”