Ancient Rome’s answer to Columbo takes a road trip to Greece in See Delphi and Die by Lindsey Davis, read by Christian Rodska, and reviewed by Star Lawrence
Sure, you would like to swan over to Greece and ruminate among the ruins, but did you know Romans a la 76 AD also joined organized tours and traipsed about ogling the sights that had already been created up to that date?
In this tongue-in-cheek detective yarn, one of a popular franchise, the snark-in-charge is Marcus Didius Falco, an emissary of the Emperor Vespasian. Falco gets involved in solving the murders of two young women who had taken Seven Sights Tour Company trips to Greece. He speaks a wry Cockney-tinged English, not Latin. He wears a cloak not a raincoat and is no loner, dragging along an entourage consisting of his diplomatic wife Helene and some nephews, a freed slave woman, and even his dog, who though of the nondiscriminating tastes typical of canines, does disdain some of the disgusting pits the tour company books them into. At the better places, Falco quips, the bedbugs went to charm school.
Falco is, by turns, very droll and then agog at the fabulous sights our ancients, his contemporaries, had already created. Man, the temples and oracles were lousy on the ground in those days! Playing good Roman/bad Roman with his wife, Falco tries to get the impressions of others on the tour with one of the young women. Instead, the tour participants give him an earful about the tour company’s arrangements, at one point the women outraged that they had to go to some poetry event. The poets “were thick as midges” and spouted bad odes, they grumped.
See Delphi & Die is funny. Humans are humans, I guess, no matter which millennium. There is one “tourist trap” where sick people can sleep in a town near some sacred site , while dogs and snakes circulate among the cots. If you dream of a dog or snake licking you, you get better. The man relating this tale said he went it one better and got bitten by one of the dogs--but a snake must have licked it, he notes, because it cleared up. They all laugh sheepishly. Won’t be seeing those drachmas again.
In this course of these travels and travails, of course, more people die, one falling off a cliff. The malefactor kicked Falco’s dog first, which caused me great consternation. Any book with a dog—I am in!
The narrator Christian Rodska does not pretend to be Italian or speak Latin, but his little mumbled asides are choice, along the lines of early versions of “Yeah, sure, I bet” or one I particularly liked: “Irony is so useful.”
Anyhow—listen to See Delphi and Die and if a snake licks you, you are going to “have a nice day.” Assuming you live to see it.
Star Lawrence owns the health humor site Health’s Ass at http://healthsass.blogspot.com. She can be reached at jkellaw@aol.com. Her reviews also appear on Book Grrl.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Science Fair Tutors at the Downtown Library
Science fair project got you baffled? The Downtown Library has science fair tutors available to help with planning, carrying out experiments, drawing conclusions, creating Excel graphs and more.
Come for help on the first floor at the back of the library during these times:
Available through December 16.
Come for help on the first floor at the back of the library during these times:
Sundays 1-4 p.m.
Tuesdays, 5-7 p.m.
Available through December 16.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Audiobook review: Polar Shift, by Clive Cussler
No laughing allowed during Polar Shift, by Clive Cussler (with Paul Kemprecos), read by Scott Brick and reviewed by Star Lawrence.
Maybe you didn’t get up this morning and say, “You know, these elites are starting to bug me, and I think I will reverse the earth’s magnetic field and destroy the planet,” but apparently Clive Cussler and Co do think like that and thus this novel.
It is childishly simple to mock a Cussler novel with its square-jawed, blonde heroes (two this time, including a franchise Cussler character Kurt Austin) and “attractive” heroines (attractive, attractive why always that description?). So why should I resist? I am pretty childish. Let the mocking begin.
Polar Shift is like two or three book concepts smashed together. It leaps the shark more than a football player doing broken field drills. There are huge rogue waves, tiny woolly mammoths, an underground city complete with alleys, the obligatory Nazis, and enough pseudo-scientific jargon to choke everyone in Los Alamos (also in there).
So…be prepared. But on the positive side, this is a darn intense “listen,” with some memorable scenes that make the movie Titanic look as boring as Last Year at Marienbad (don’t remember that one? There’s a reason.)
Scott Brick, one of my favorite readers, has a sort of chewy, earnest voice and doesn’t overdo the accents or shoot the women into falsetto.
Should you check out Polar Shift? Ask yourself—How much do I hate electromagnetic fields?
Star Lawrence owns the health humor site Health’s Ass (http://healthsass.blogspot.com/). She can be reached at jkellaw@aol.com.
Maybe you didn’t get up this morning and say, “You know, these elites are starting to bug me, and I think I will reverse the earth’s magnetic field and destroy the planet,” but apparently Clive Cussler and Co do think like that and thus this novel.
It is childishly simple to mock a Cussler novel with its square-jawed, blonde heroes (two this time, including a franchise Cussler character Kurt Austin) and “attractive” heroines (attractive, attractive why always that description?). So why should I resist? I am pretty childish. Let the mocking begin.
Polar Shift is like two or three book concepts smashed together. It leaps the shark more than a football player doing broken field drills. There are huge rogue waves, tiny woolly mammoths, an underground city complete with alleys, the obligatory Nazis, and enough pseudo-scientific jargon to choke everyone in Los Alamos (also in there).
So…be prepared. But on the positive side, this is a darn intense “listen,” with some memorable scenes that make the movie Titanic look as boring as Last Year at Marienbad (don’t remember that one? There’s a reason.)
Scott Brick, one of my favorite readers, has a sort of chewy, earnest voice and doesn’t overdo the accents or shoot the women into falsetto.
Should you check out Polar Shift? Ask yourself—How much do I hate electromagnetic fields?
Star Lawrence owns the health humor site Health’s Ass (http://healthsass.blogspot.com/). She can be reached at jkellaw@aol.com.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Downloadable audiobooks - now for Mac!
With OverDrive Media Console for Mac, OverDrive MP3 Audiobooks can now be downloaded and enjoyed on Macs! More info
Additionally, in the interest of faster turnarounds and shorter waits, the checkout period for all formats of downloadable audiobooks is now 14 days. All other items in the Greater Phoenix Digital Library will continue to have a 21 day checkout.
Note: Digital media is not available for download from Library computers. Downloads are only available to your personal PC, laptop, or PDA.
Additionally, in the interest of faster turnarounds and shorter waits, the checkout period for all formats of downloadable audiobooks is now 14 days. All other items in the Greater Phoenix Digital Library will continue to have a 21 day checkout.
Note: Digital media is not available for download from Library computers. Downloads are only available to your personal PC, laptop, or PDA.
Monday, November 17, 2008
TV Converter Box Reviews
Consumer Reports reviewed TV converter boxes in their November issue! If you're in the market for a new digital tuner (what is this?) for your analog TV in time for the Feb 17 digital transition deadline, check it out (you'll need your library card number and PIN to access the article)! Don't forget to go to the DTV Converter Box Coupon Program website to apply for a $40 coupon (while supplies last).
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Review: Oh, Boy, Here Comes 'Trouble'
Review by guest blogger Star Lawrence. TROUBLE (audiobook), author Jesse Kellerman and read by Scott Brick.
You’re a medical student who sets out in the middle of the night to replace your gore-slathered shoes and you stab a guy in order to save a screaming woman crawling away from her assailant. What do you have to lose by starting a twisted affair with her?
The author Jesse Kellerman is the son of Jonathan and Faye, the beloved crime novelists. Yes, the spawn is rising. At least Jesse kept the family last name. Stephen King’s son is named Joe Hill. (John Doe was in use, I guess.)
Anyhow, this whiny, smarty-pants med student, Jonah Stem, soon runs into the woman he saved. Her name is Eve Gones, although she informs him this is pronounced “Jones.” OK, now, guy? Now, are you seeing any flags on the play?
Nope.
OK, things progress and our Eve turns out to…well, wouldn’t want to introduce any spoilers. Let’s just say, she has unusual tastes between the sheets, if she even is between actual sheets at any point, I can’t remember. Jonah is quite overwhelmed between these disturbing romps, cracking Gray’s Anatomy, dueling with crabby residents, coping with being a famous superhero who saves winsome masochists from harm, and hanging out with his former girl friend who is almost catatonic from some past trauma or other.
Books on CD are such a different art form from books on dead trees. The reader, in this case, Scott Brick, one of my favorites, has to fit the story—and he does. Brick has a slow paced, patient-sounding, slightly nasal voice that drops at the end of every sentence. It’s kind of an East Coast accent, deliberate, letting the words line up neatly. He does the various voices in an understated way, no falsettos for the women or comical rasps for the men. Yet, you can always tell who’s who and who’s back.
While I notice some grumpy reviews on Amazon, and of course, I am as ever, your Snark Woman, I listened to the bloody end. I rather liked this book and recommended it to my sister.
I doubt I will be doing any midnight shoe shopping soon, though.
Star Lawrence is a writer and loyal library patron who changed from books on paper to books on CD after some failed eye surgeries two years ago. Her reviews also appear on The Book Grrl, which contains other tidbits of interest to readers. Star's health humor blog can be found at http://healthsass.blogspot.com and her occasional gripes and plaudits about Chandler appear in http://chandlerazoo.blogspot.com.
You’re a medical student who sets out in the middle of the night to replace your gore-slathered shoes and you stab a guy in order to save a screaming woman crawling away from her assailant. What do you have to lose by starting a twisted affair with her?
The author Jesse Kellerman is the son of Jonathan and Faye, the beloved crime novelists. Yes, the spawn is rising. At least Jesse kept the family last name. Stephen King’s son is named Joe Hill. (John Doe was in use, I guess.)
Anyhow, this whiny, smarty-pants med student, Jonah Stem, soon runs into the woman he saved. Her name is Eve Gones, although she informs him this is pronounced “Jones.” OK, now, guy? Now, are you seeing any flags on the play?
Nope.
OK, things progress and our Eve turns out to…well, wouldn’t want to introduce any spoilers. Let’s just say, she has unusual tastes between the sheets, if she even is between actual sheets at any point, I can’t remember. Jonah is quite overwhelmed between these disturbing romps, cracking Gray’s Anatomy, dueling with crabby residents, coping with being a famous superhero who saves winsome masochists from harm, and hanging out with his former girl friend who is almost catatonic from some past trauma or other.
Books on CD are such a different art form from books on dead trees. The reader, in this case, Scott Brick, one of my favorites, has to fit the story—and he does. Brick has a slow paced, patient-sounding, slightly nasal voice that drops at the end of every sentence. It’s kind of an East Coast accent, deliberate, letting the words line up neatly. He does the various voices in an understated way, no falsettos for the women or comical rasps for the men. Yet, you can always tell who’s who and who’s back.
While I notice some grumpy reviews on Amazon, and of course, I am as ever, your Snark Woman, I listened to the bloody end. I rather liked this book and recommended it to my sister.
I doubt I will be doing any midnight shoe shopping soon, though.
Star Lawrence is a writer and loyal library patron who changed from books on paper to books on CD after some failed eye surgeries two years ago. Her reviews also appear on The Book Grrl, which contains other tidbits of interest to readers. Star's health humor blog can be found at http://healthsass.blogspot.com and her occasional gripes and plaudits about Chandler appear in http://chandlerazoo.blogspot.com.
Monday, November 10, 2008
ONEBOOKAZ Titles Chosen for 2009
ONEBOOKAZ will feature two books by Arizona authors, both from Nogales, in 2009. Alberto Rios’s Capirotada: A Nogales Memoir is the adult selection, while Roni Capin Rivera-Ashford’s Hip, Hip, Hooray, It’s Monsoon Day! is the children’s selection. The libraries will be getting more copies in time for ONEBOOKAZ in April. More info about ONEBOOKAZTuesday, October 28, 2008
Book Review - Almost Friends by Philip Gulley
The sixth novel in the Harmony series finds Pastor Sam Gardner struggling with the issues of faith, community and loyalty. His Quaker congregation (known as "Friends") also struggles with similar issues when Sam takes a leave of absence to evaluate his future.
Philip Gulley paints a picture of a small town church community that fits into the mold of the "gentle read" genre perfectly. Filled with eccentric but endearing characters, humor and an uplifting story, Almost Friends is entertaining and satisfying. The reader will not find it necessary to have read the first five books in the series. Gulley re-caps his characters and traditions of the community in each novel without becoming redundant. Even though the setting is a church and Philip Gulley is, in real life, the pastor of the Fairfield Friends Meetinghouse in Camby, Indiana, the Harmony series is not "preachy" or "religious." The characters give Gulley enough fodder for clever humor; his message of tolerance, self-discovery and the need for community is universal. - Linda G.
Philip Gulley paints a picture of a small town church community that fits into the mold of the "gentle read" genre perfectly. Filled with eccentric but endearing characters, humor and an uplifting story, Almost Friends is entertaining and satisfying. The reader will not find it necessary to have read the first five books in the series. Gulley re-caps his characters and traditions of the community in each novel without becoming redundant. Even though the setting is a church and Philip Gulley is, in real life, the pastor of the Fairfield Friends Meetinghouse in Camby, Indiana, the Harmony series is not "preachy" or "religious." The characters give Gulley enough fodder for clever humor; his message of tolerance, self-discovery and the need for community is universal. - Linda G.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Book Review - Lavinia by Ursula K. Le Guin
In the ancient times before Rome was founded on seven hills, a girl named Lavinia leads a simple life, tending the vestal fires and honoring her family’s household gods with salt and meal. But Lavinia is the daughter of the king of Latium, and it is not long before her father’s allies and rivals begin to fight over who will marry her. Lavinia will not choose among her suitors, though, because her father has heard a prophecy that fortells her marriage to a foreigner - a refugee from the fallen city of Troy who has been commanded by fate to conquer Latium and build a great city there, and plunge Latium into war in the process.
Acclaimed fantasy and science fiction author Le Guin turns her hand to history in this retelling of Vergil’s Aeneid, the epic poem dramatizing the Trojan War and the founding of Rome. In Vergil’s telling Lavinia, fated to marry the hero Aeneas, does not speak a single word. It is up to Le Guin to give voice to this vital character, fleshing out the peaceful world of her youth, the violence into which it descends, and her headstrong will to follow the fates.
Ursula K. Le Guin is the author of the award-winning Earthsea series, as well as children’s books including Catwings and several short story collections. Readers new to her science fiction may be interested in Four Ways to Forgiveness, four stories set in the world of her popular Hainish novels. - Michelle
Acclaimed fantasy and science fiction author Le Guin turns her hand to history in this retelling of Vergil’s Aeneid, the epic poem dramatizing the Trojan War and the founding of Rome. In Vergil’s telling Lavinia, fated to marry the hero Aeneas, does not speak a single word. It is up to Le Guin to give voice to this vital character, fleshing out the peaceful world of her youth, the violence into which it descends, and her headstrong will to follow the fates.
Ursula K. Le Guin is the author of the award-winning Earthsea series, as well as children’s books including Catwings and several short story collections. Readers new to her science fiction may be interested in Four Ways to Forgiveness, four stories set in the world of her popular Hainish novels. - Michelle
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Book Review - Mary
Mary, by Janis Cooke Newman, is an engrossing historical fiction novel about Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln. The author's meticulous research and attention to detail has produced a first-person narrative that comes across as autobiographical. History has not been kind to Mary Todd Lincoln. She has been described as insane, shrewd, conniving and compulsive - none of which are desirable qualities for a First Lady or any lady of the Victorian era. Mary had some good reasons to be somewhat neurotic and depressed; three of her four sons died at young ages due to disease, the Civil War wreaked havoc on the country, her husband was assassinated and her remaining son had her committed to an insane asylum. Victorian era women were expected to be quiet and demure; Mary was not. Raised in a political household, she used her knowledge to shape her troubled husband into a great orator and politician. To her chagrin, he never quite cared about outward appearances as much as she would have liked, but Mary adored her presidential spouse anyhow. After Lincoln’s death, Mary’s misery and grief deepened. She turned to the occult for clarity and laudanum for sleep. Her struggles were interpreted as "madness" and her son, Robert, had her committed to a lunatic asylum. With the help of a good friend and lawyer, Mary convinced her doctors that she was not insane and was released.
Janis Newman Cooke is a champion for Mary Todd Lincoln. She has taken this historically misunderstood figure and made her a lady who was ahead of her time. -Linda G.
Janis Newman Cooke is a champion for Mary Todd Lincoln. She has taken this historically misunderstood figure and made her a lady who was ahead of her time. -Linda G.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Book review - Mistress of the Sun
Mistress of the Sun by Sandra Gulland is the story of Louise de la Valliére (b.1644-d.1710), one of King Louis XIV early but well-loved mistresses. As a young girl Louise (or "Petite") loves horses and uses forbidden dark magic to tame Diablo, a wild white stallion. This undercurrent of dark magic flows throughout the book which gives the story an unexpected twist and intrigue. The ambitions of Petite’s mother and stepfather land her in the service of Princess Henriette, the sister-in-law to King Louis XIV. The King is unhappily married to the ever-devout Spanish Queen Marie-Thérèse. To further complicate matters, he is also in love with Princess Henriette. Affairs and assignations run rampant in this 17th century French court and it is not long before Petite captures the heart of the King. Petite takes her love for Louis seriously but not the trappings of her life as his mistress; this poses an ethical dilemma for the young woman. Her search for peace and normalcy uncovers the dark underbelly of the French court and helps Petite realize that power/magic can be used for good or for evil.
Mistress of the Sun has all the qualities of a well crafted historical fiction novel. The story is rich in detail, the characters are real and intriguing and the opulence of early reign of the "Sun King" comes to life. -Linda G.
Mistress of the Sun has all the qualities of a well crafted historical fiction novel. The story is rich in detail, the characters are real and intriguing and the opulence of early reign of the "Sun King" comes to life. -Linda G.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Appaloosa - The Movie
Unfortunately Appaloosa- the movie- is nowhere near the entertaining quality of Appaloosa-the book by Robert B. Parker. If I were an academic snob, I would say this is because Robert B. Parker has a PhD. in English Literature and is not a product of Hollywood screenplay writing. Instead, I’ll just say that the screenplay, when compared to the book, seems to have gone through the Salem Witch Trials. To promote character development, Robert B. Parker expertly utilized that human Achilles heel called sex. For whatever reason, almost all of this is deleted from the movie. The end result is a flick without zest that borders on boredom! If you want to see the last great Hollywood Western, check out 3:10 to Yuma (the 2007 movie starring Christian Bale and Russell Crowe) and leave Appaloosa to the New England Puritans. - Henry
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
League of Women Voters' Voter Guides
They're finally here! We have print copies of the League of Women Voters' Voter Guide (explaining the state ballot measures) at the Downtown Library, and you can also find them online at the League of Women Voters' website.
Don't forget that October 6 is the deadline to register or update your registration in time to vote in the November 4 General Election! If you have an Arizona driver license, you should be able to register to vote online at servicearizona.com, or you can pick up a registration form at the library.
Don't forget that October 6 is the deadline to register or update your registration in time to vote in the November 4 General Election! If you have an Arizona driver license, you should be able to register to vote online at servicearizona.com, or you can pick up a registration form at the library.
Banned Books Week
Celebrate your freedom to read! September 27 - October 4 is Banned Books Week. Are you curious about which books have been banned this past year? Or what authors have been banned the most? Visit the American Library Association's Banned Books Week website to learn more about this important celebration.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Discover Chandler's History!
HighTown - Mi Barrio Exhibit Grand Opening Reception Friday 9/26, 6-8pm.
The McCullough-Price House is hosting an exhibit featuring the history of a west Chandler Hispanic neighborhood, plus the works of local Latino artists whose art centers on the themes of neighborhood and home. The Hightown/Pueblo Alto history exhibit and the Mi Barrio art exhibit are part of the City’s Hispanic Heritage Month festivities. Exhibit on display from Sept. 16 through November 26, 2008.
On Friday, 9/26, tour the House, explore the new exhibit and enjoy complimentary refreshments! FREE event, all ages welcome.
The McCullough-Price House is hosting an exhibit featuring the history of a west Chandler Hispanic neighborhood, plus the works of local Latino artists whose art centers on the themes of neighborhood and home. The Hightown/Pueblo Alto history exhibit and the Mi Barrio art exhibit are part of the City’s Hispanic Heritage Month festivities. Exhibit on display from Sept. 16 through November 26, 2008.
On Friday, 9/26, tour the House, explore the new exhibit and enjoy complimentary refreshments! FREE event, all ages welcome.
Vote for the 2009 OneBookAZ selection
"As Arizona prepares for its Centennial in 2012, ONEBOOKAZ provides an opportunity for its citizens to come together to read and discuss books that will increase their knowledge and appreciation of Arizona’s unique history and culture."
There is still time to vote for the OneBookAZ selection for 2009. You can help decide what thousands of Arizonans will read and discuss next April. You can find out more about each selection before you vote by clicking the title: http://www.onebookaz.org/
There is still time to vote for the OneBookAZ selection for 2009. You can help decide what thousands of Arizonans will read and discuss next April. You can find out more about each selection before you vote by clicking the title: http://www.onebookaz.org/
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Thursday Night Book Chat
The Downtown library is starting a new book club! Our first meeting will be Thursday, October 9 at 7:00 pm. We'll discuss The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. If you're interested in attending, you can pick up a copy of the book at the Downtown library first floor reference desk.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Cut your own Christmas tree!
The State of Arizona has done away with the decades-old lottery for Christmas tree cutting tags and will now be selling them at selected Big 5 Sporting Goods stores. The tags are now $15.
For more information about the program, please visit the Tonto National Forest webpage at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto or call the Christmas Tree Hotline: (602) 225-5258.
The following Big 5 Stores will have the Christmas tree cutting permits available for sale:
Avondale/Goodyear 1623 North Dysart Road , Avondale AZ 85323 (623) 535-0384
Flagstaff : 2775 Woodlands Village Blvd. Flagstaff AZ 86001 (928) 214-0590
Glendale : 5490 West Bell Road , Suite A, Glendale AZ 85308 (602) 548-5794
Mesa/Gilbert: 1244 South Gilbert Road, Suite 101 , Mesa AZ 85204 (480) 507-0137
Phoenix/Paradise Valley: 4623 East Cactus Road , Phoenix AZ 85032 (602) 953-0305
Phoenix/Bell Rd : 1919 West Bell Road , Phoenix AZ 85023 (602) 863-1309
Phoenix/East: 3560 East Thomas Road , Phoenix AZ 85018 (602) 955-9601
Phoenix/West: 7710 West Thomas Road , Phoenix AZ 85033 (623) 848-4800
Prescott : 6106 Highway 69, Prescott Valley , AZ 86314 (928) 759-0013
South Scottsdale : 3330 Hayden Road , Scottsdale AZ 85251 (480) 941-4387
Tucson/Speedway: 5695 East Speedway Blvd. Tucson AZ 85712 (520) 296-3326
For more information about the program, please visit the Tonto National Forest webpage at www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto or call the Christmas Tree Hotline: (602) 225-5258.
The following Big 5 Stores will have the Christmas tree cutting permits available for sale:
Avondale/Goodyear 1623 North Dysart Road , Avondale AZ 85323 (623) 535-0384
Flagstaff : 2775 Woodlands Village Blvd. Flagstaff AZ 86001 (928) 214-0590
Glendale : 5490 West Bell Road , Suite A, Glendale AZ 85308 (602) 548-5794
Mesa/Gilbert: 1244 South Gilbert Road, Suite 101 , Mesa AZ 85204 (480) 507-0137
Phoenix/Paradise Valley: 4623 East Cactus Road , Phoenix AZ 85032 (602) 953-0305
Phoenix/Bell Rd : 1919 West Bell Road , Phoenix AZ 85023 (602) 863-1309
Phoenix/East: 3560 East Thomas Road , Phoenix AZ 85018 (602) 955-9601
Phoenix/West: 7710 West Thomas Road , Phoenix AZ 85033 (623) 848-4800
Prescott : 6106 Highway 69, Prescott Valley , AZ 86314 (928) 759-0013
South Scottsdale : 3330 Hayden Road , Scottsdale AZ 85251 (480) 941-4387
Tucson/Speedway: 5695 East Speedway Blvd. Tucson AZ 85712 (520) 296-3326
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Traitor
For those of you who rave over Don Cheadle, Academy Award nominee and Golden Globe winning actor, Traitor probably won’t disappoint you. Yet, for those looking for a creative screenplay this movie is a traitor to the concept.
Yes it’s true that the story line is current with today’s international events and may give the viewer a better understanding of the plight of Arabs and why they join radical militant movements. And yes, the special effects, acting cast – Don Cheadle, Archie Panjabi, Guy Pearce, Lorena Gale, and Aly Khan, and directing by Jeffrey Nachmanoff are all solid. Yet, when it’s all said done – despite some great special effects- the basic story line has been done numerous times before and you may go away simply bored. -Henry
Yes it’s true that the story line is current with today’s international events and may give the viewer a better understanding of the plight of Arabs and why they join radical militant movements. And yes, the special effects, acting cast – Don Cheadle, Archie Panjabi, Guy Pearce, Lorena Gale, and Aly Khan, and directing by Jeffrey Nachmanoff are all solid. Yet, when it’s all said done – despite some great special effects- the basic story line has been done numerous times before and you may go away simply bored. -Henry
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Coming soon - MP3/iPod-compatible downloadable audiobooks
Those of you who haven't been able to download audiobooks from the Greater Digital Phoenix Library to your iPod will be happy to know that starting September 2, we will have a collection of MP3 audiobooks that you will be able to download to any MP3 player, including iPods, iPhones, and iPod Touch!Please note that the new checkout period for ALL formats of our downloadable AUDIOBOOKS will be two weeks, in order to have quicker turnarounds and shorter wait periods. All other items will continue to have a 21 day checkout.
The following types of materials can be checked out and downloaded from the Greater Digital Phoenix Library:
- eBooks in the Adobe® Reader®/Adobe Digital Editions PDF format (eBooks optimized for on-screen reading)
- eBooks in the Mobipocket Reader format (eBooks optimized for on-screen reading & transfer to an array of portable devices)
- WMA Audiobooks in the OverDrive Media Console™ format
- Music in the OverDrive Media Console™ format
- Video in the OverDrive Media Console™ format (note that OverDrive eFlicks is supported as a high-speed Internet-only product)
- (Starting September 2) MP3 audiobooks
To access digital materials at Greater Digital Phoenix Library, you will need:
- A valid library card and PIN
- Access to the Internet
- Free software for the computer and/or device on which you wish to use the material you download from this site
Monday, August 18, 2008
Poll Workers Needed!
The 2008 elections are coming up, and the Arizona Secretary of State is needing Poll Workers. Some of the training is happening at the Downtown Chandler Library, in fact. If you're interested in doing your civic duty and getting paid for it, go to the Secretary of State's website, or call 1-877-The Vote. Deadline to apply is October 17, if you're interested in working the General Election.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Brideshead Revisited
While the cinematic adaptation of Evelyn Waugh’s classic novel, Brideshead Revisited definitely lives up to the critics' acclaim, it is not recommended for a movie viewer who finds things like bisexual relationships offensive. Yet if you can get past this, you are in for a marvelous cinematic experience.
The acting, directing, screen -play, and thought provoking subject matter will keep you thinking about this movie for some time. You may need patience as your Yankee ear tunes in to the whispering upper-class British accents, but the intense acting – especially by Patrick Malahide ( who plays an artistic Oxford student thrown into complicated upper class sexual intrigues) - makes it worth your effort. So if you like emotional acting, sociological messages, some fantastic directing by Julian Jarrold, and are not easily morally offended, Brideshead Revisited is a must see and a movie you won’t forget!
The acting, directing, screen -play, and thought provoking subject matter will keep you thinking about this movie for some time. You may need patience as your Yankee ear tunes in to the whispering upper-class British accents, but the intense acting – especially by Patrick Malahide ( who plays an artistic Oxford student thrown into complicated upper class sexual intrigues) - makes it worth your effort. So if you like emotional acting, sociological messages, some fantastic directing by Julian Jarrold, and are not easily morally offended, Brideshead Revisited is a must see and a movie you won’t forget!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Best kept secrets at your library
Here are a few FREE things we offer to the public that you might not realize we have:
-FAX MACHINES at all libraries. You may send a fax anywhere in the U.S. (no receiving)
-SCANNERS at all libraries.
-a TYPEWRITER at the Downtown Library.
-MAVIS BEACON TEACHES TYPING program on a few computers at the Downtown Library and a subscription to TYPINGMASTER ONLINE, which you may access with your library card and PIN.
-Back issues of most MAGAZINES AVAILABLE FOR CHECKOUT
Anything you've been pleasantly surprised to discover at the library?
-FAX MACHINES at all libraries. You may send a fax anywhere in the U.S. (no receiving)
-SCANNERS at all libraries.
-a TYPEWRITER at the Downtown Library.
-MAVIS BEACON TEACHES TYPING program on a few computers at the Downtown Library and a subscription to TYPINGMASTER ONLINE, which you may access with your library card and PIN.
-Back issues of most MAGAZINES AVAILABLE FOR CHECKOUT
Anything you've been pleasantly surprised to discover at the library?
Monday, August 4, 2008
The Painter of Battles by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
War photographer Andrés Faulques has retired to a seaside village to begin the painting of a mural, a collage of battle scenes both historical and modern. Haunted by the atrocities he has witnessed and the death of his colleague in a roadside attack, the reclusive artist is surprised by a visitor, a vaguely familiar man who claims to know him. The visitor is a former Croatian soldier whose photo Faulques took in the aftermath of a devastating battle – a seconds-long shutter click that Faulques had long forgotten – but his family was murdered and his life destroyed as a result of the publication of the photo. He has tracked down Faulques to make the photographer understand how that instant changed his life, and to seek his revenge by killing Faulques.
The Painter of Battles is both a story of suspense and a meditation on the nature of violence, responsibility, and the balance between fate and choice. Pérez-Reverte writes with beautiful language, dense philosophy, and disturbing images of modern war and human nature. The author worked as a war correspondent before achieving success as a novelist. His other works include The Queen of the South, the saga of a Mexican woman who becomes the leader of an international drug cartel; the Captain Alatriste novels, a historical fiction series about a seventeenth-century swordsman; and the literary mystery The Club Dumas, parts of which were adapted into the film The Ninth Gate. - Michelle
The Painter of Battles is both a story of suspense and a meditation on the nature of violence, responsibility, and the balance between fate and choice. Pérez-Reverte writes with beautiful language, dense philosophy, and disturbing images of modern war and human nature. The author worked as a war correspondent before achieving success as a novelist. His other works include The Queen of the South, the saga of a Mexican woman who becomes the leader of an international drug cartel; the Captain Alatriste novels, a historical fiction series about a seventeenth-century swordsman; and the literary mystery The Club Dumas, parts of which were adapted into the film The Ninth Gate. - Michelle
Sunday, August 3, 2008
New (to us) Travel Literature
Ganga : a journey down the Ganges River -Crandall Hollick, Julian.
"Combining travelogue, science, and history, Ganga is a fascinating portrait of a river and a culture. It will show you India as you have never imagined it."
The geography of bliss : one grump's search for the happiest places in the world
-Weiner, Eric
"Part foreign affairs discourse, part humor, and part twisted self-help guide, "The Geography of Bliss" takes the reader from America to Iceland to India in search of happiness, or, in the crabby authors case, moments of 'un-unhappiness.'"
Narrow dog to Carcassonne-Darlington, Terry
"It was absurd. It was foolhardy. And it was glorious. When they retired, Terry Darlington and his somewhat saner wife Monica-together with their dog, a whippet named Jim-chucked their earthbound life and set out in an utterly unseaworthy sixty-foot canal narrowboat across the notoriously treacherous English Channel and down to the South of France."
A rotten person travels the Caribbean-Buslik, Gary
"Each chapter of this often hilarious and sometimes poignant travelogue recounts another island-hopping, culture-clashing crisis that pits the homesick author against falling coconuts, hospitals that remove wrong organs, insects as big and dangerous as stealth bombers, ticket agents that put him on hold for hours, mysteriously calculated currency exchanges, over-proofed rum, livestock, singing Rastafarians, garbage-bin sex, peanut-crazed children, Idi Amin, flesh-eating monkeys, dentists, cricket, steel drum bands, and the French. "
Queen of the road : the true tale of 47 states, 22,000 miles, 200 shoes, 2 cats, 1 poodle, a husband, and a bus with a will of its own-Orion, Doreen
"A pampered Long Island princess hits the road in a converted bus with her wilderness-loving husband, travels the country for one year, and brings it all hilariously to life in this offbeat and romantic memoir."
Long way down : an epic journey by motorcycle from Scotland to South Africa-McGregor, Ewan, 1971-
"Eighteen countries. Five shock absorbers.Two bikers. One amazing adventure...
After their fantastic trip round the world in 2004, fellow actors and bike fanatics Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman couldn't shake the travel bug. Inspired by their UNICEF visits to Africa, they knew they had to go back and experience this extraordinary continent in more depth."
Ghost train to the Eastern star : 28,000 miles in search of the railway bazaar
-Theroux, Paul
"Thirty years after the epic journey chronicled in his classic work The Great Railway Bazaar, the world's most acclaimed travel writer re-creates his 25,000-mile journey through eastern Europe, central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, China, Japan, and Siberia."
Lois on the loose : one woman, one motorcycle, 20,000 miles across the Americas
-Pryce, Lois
"Lois was working at the BBC in London, firmly set on the career track. But unbeknownst to her coworkers, she was leading a parallel life as well, that of a biker babe with an overwhelming case of wanderlust, one that couldn't be satisfied by a weekend holiday. Her days in a cubicle were numbered, and it wasn't long before she was on her bike and looking for adventure."
Ghosts of Spain : travels through Spain and its silent past-Tremlett, Giles
The appearance, more than sixty years after the Spanish Civil War, of mass graves containing victims of Franco's death squads finally broke the unwritten understanding among Spaniards that their recent, painful past was best left unexplored. Madrid-based journalist and 20-year resident Tremlett embarked on a journey around the country and through its history to discover why its people have kept silent so long, and here unveils the tinderbox of disagreements that mark the country today.
Conquering the impossible : my 12,000-mile journey around the Arctic Circle-Horn, Mike, 1966-
In August 2002, Mike Horn set out on a mission that bordered on the impossible: to travel 12,000 miles around the globe at the Arctic Circle - alone, against all prevailing winds and currents, and without motorized transportation.
Way off the road : discovering the peculiar charms of small-town America
-Geist, William
"CBS roving correspondent and author Geist offers up an amusing and expansive collection of America's quirky, strange and offbeat nooks." (Publisher's Weekly)
Dishwasher : one man's quest to wash dishes in all fifty states
-Jordan, Pete
"Dishwasher is the true story of a man on a mission: to clean dirty dishes professionally in every state in America. Part adventure, part parody, and part miraculous journey of self-discovery, it is the unforgettable account of Pete Jordan's transformation from itinerant seeker into "Dishwasher Pete"—unlikely folk hero, writer, publisher of his own cult zine, and the ultimate professional dish dog—and how he gave it all up for love. "
The soul of baseball : a road trip through Buck O'Neil's America-Posnanski, Joe
"When legendary Negro League player Buck O'Neil asked Joe Posnanski how he fell in love with baseball, the renowned sports columnist was inspired by the question. He decided to spend the 2005 baseball season touring the country with the ninety-four-year-old O'Neil in hopes of rediscovering the love that first drew them to the game. "
Land of Lincoln : adventures in Abe's America
-Ferguson, Andrew, 1956-
"Andrew Ferguson packs his bags and embarks on a journey to the heart of contemporary Lincoln Nation, where he encounters a world as funny as it is poignant, and a population as devoted as it is colorful. "
Arizona : no ordinary journey
-Churchwell, Mary Jo, 1942-
"Arizona: No Ordinary Journey" is partly a nature book, partly a Southwestern history, and, if the reader is in the right frame of mind, partly a comedy of errors. It is also a personal narrative--seven long months of living in a Saturn sedan; making and breaking camp; hiking official and unofficial trails; fly-fishing for Apache trout; and wandering around Arizona's little flyspeck towns, recording in loving and lingering detail the true spirit of the state.
Living in a foreign language : a memoir of food, wine, and love in Italy
-Tucker, Michael, 1944- From actor Michael Tucker comes this celebration of a good marriage and a careful study of the nature of home, written with an epicureans delight in detail and a gourmands appreciation for all things fine.
"Combining travelogue, science, and history, Ganga is a fascinating portrait of a river and a culture. It will show you India as you have never imagined it."
The geography of bliss : one grump's search for the happiest places in the world
-Weiner, Eric
"Part foreign affairs discourse, part humor, and part twisted self-help guide, "The Geography of Bliss" takes the reader from America to Iceland to India in search of happiness, or, in the crabby authors case, moments of 'un-unhappiness.'"
Narrow dog to Carcassonne-Darlington, Terry
"It was absurd. It was foolhardy. And it was glorious. When they retired, Terry Darlington and his somewhat saner wife Monica-together with their dog, a whippet named Jim-chucked their earthbound life and set out in an utterly unseaworthy sixty-foot canal narrowboat across the notoriously treacherous English Channel and down to the South of France."
A rotten person travels the Caribbean-Buslik, Gary
"Each chapter of this often hilarious and sometimes poignant travelogue recounts another island-hopping, culture-clashing crisis that pits the homesick author against falling coconuts, hospitals that remove wrong organs, insects as big and dangerous as stealth bombers, ticket agents that put him on hold for hours, mysteriously calculated currency exchanges, over-proofed rum, livestock, singing Rastafarians, garbage-bin sex, peanut-crazed children, Idi Amin, flesh-eating monkeys, dentists, cricket, steel drum bands, and the French. "
Queen of the road : the true tale of 47 states, 22,000 miles, 200 shoes, 2 cats, 1 poodle, a husband, and a bus with a will of its own-Orion, Doreen
"A pampered Long Island princess hits the road in a converted bus with her wilderness-loving husband, travels the country for one year, and brings it all hilariously to life in this offbeat and romantic memoir."
Long way down : an epic journey by motorcycle from Scotland to South Africa-McGregor, Ewan, 1971-
"Eighteen countries. Five shock absorbers.Two bikers. One amazing adventure...
After their fantastic trip round the world in 2004, fellow actors and bike fanatics Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman couldn't shake the travel bug. Inspired by their UNICEF visits to Africa, they knew they had to go back and experience this extraordinary continent in more depth."
Ghost train to the Eastern star : 28,000 miles in search of the railway bazaar
-Theroux, Paul
"Thirty years after the epic journey chronicled in his classic work The Great Railway Bazaar, the world's most acclaimed travel writer re-creates his 25,000-mile journey through eastern Europe, central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, China, Japan, and Siberia."
Lois on the loose : one woman, one motorcycle, 20,000 miles across the Americas
-Pryce, Lois
"Lois was working at the BBC in London, firmly set on the career track. But unbeknownst to her coworkers, she was leading a parallel life as well, that of a biker babe with an overwhelming case of wanderlust, one that couldn't be satisfied by a weekend holiday. Her days in a cubicle were numbered, and it wasn't long before she was on her bike and looking for adventure."
Ghosts of Spain : travels through Spain and its silent past-Tremlett, Giles
The appearance, more than sixty years after the Spanish Civil War, of mass graves containing victims of Franco's death squads finally broke the unwritten understanding among Spaniards that their recent, painful past was best left unexplored. Madrid-based journalist and 20-year resident Tremlett embarked on a journey around the country and through its history to discover why its people have kept silent so long, and here unveils the tinderbox of disagreements that mark the country today.
Conquering the impossible : my 12,000-mile journey around the Arctic Circle-Horn, Mike, 1966-
In August 2002, Mike Horn set out on a mission that bordered on the impossible: to travel 12,000 miles around the globe at the Arctic Circle - alone, against all prevailing winds and currents, and without motorized transportation.
Way off the road : discovering the peculiar charms of small-town America
-Geist, William
"CBS roving correspondent and author Geist offers up an amusing and expansive collection of America's quirky, strange and offbeat nooks." (Publisher's Weekly)
Dishwasher : one man's quest to wash dishes in all fifty states
-Jordan, Pete
"Dishwasher is the true story of a man on a mission: to clean dirty dishes professionally in every state in America. Part adventure, part parody, and part miraculous journey of self-discovery, it is the unforgettable account of Pete Jordan's transformation from itinerant seeker into "Dishwasher Pete"—unlikely folk hero, writer, publisher of his own cult zine, and the ultimate professional dish dog—and how he gave it all up for love. "
The soul of baseball : a road trip through Buck O'Neil's America-Posnanski, Joe
"When legendary Negro League player Buck O'Neil asked Joe Posnanski how he fell in love with baseball, the renowned sports columnist was inspired by the question. He decided to spend the 2005 baseball season touring the country with the ninety-four-year-old O'Neil in hopes of rediscovering the love that first drew them to the game. "
Land of Lincoln : adventures in Abe's America
-Ferguson, Andrew, 1956-
"Andrew Ferguson packs his bags and embarks on a journey to the heart of contemporary Lincoln Nation, where he encounters a world as funny as it is poignant, and a population as devoted as it is colorful. "
Arizona : no ordinary journey
-Churchwell, Mary Jo, 1942-
"Arizona: No Ordinary Journey" is partly a nature book, partly a Southwestern history, and, if the reader is in the right frame of mind, partly a comedy of errors. It is also a personal narrative--seven long months of living in a Saturn sedan; making and breaking camp; hiking official and unofficial trails; fly-fishing for Apache trout; and wandering around Arizona's little flyspeck towns, recording in loving and lingering detail the true spirit of the state.
Living in a foreign language : a memoir of food, wine, and love in Italy
-Tucker, Michael, 1944- From actor Michael Tucker comes this celebration of a good marriage and a careful study of the nature of home, written with an epicureans delight in detail and a gourmands appreciation for all things fine.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Mummy Movie Critics Crummy
It is this movie-goer's humble opinion that movie critics can be wrong! In fact, when it comes to the current mummy movie- The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor - their comments are just plain crummy, mummy crummy! The Boston Globe says “Third time around, Mummy unravels” and The Chicago Tribune goes even further noting that you may want to “wrap linen over your eyes and nap.” For me, it was just the opposite. I found Tomb of the Dragon Emperor to be highly entertaining, fast-paced, easy to follow, extremely adventurous, and down right hilarious! If you can nap through this movie, you could nap through an earthquake! The musical score and the special effects were a stand-out, and the only fault I can muster might be the casting. Brendan Fraser is perhaps a little young to be playing the father of Luke Ford. So take the Challenge, prove the Mummy critics are crummy, see The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor! -Henry
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Consumer Reports online - free with your library card
Masterfile, one of our favorite databases for finding magazine articles, recently added access to full text of the current three months of Consumer Reports (as well as prior). Previously, you could only see the full text from articles that were at least three months old. This means you'll be sure to get the most recent articles on a product or service.
To search for reviews from Consumer Reports on a particular product or service,
To search for reviews from Consumer Reports on a particular product or service,
- Log into Masterfile Premier - (from home you will need your library card number - no spaces - and your 4-digit PIN). In the future, you can find a link to it by going to http://www.chandlerlibrary.org/, clicking "Information Databases" and then Masterfile Premier.
- Type your subject in the search box (e.g. refrigerators)
- Under "Limit Your Results," type "Consumer Reports" in the Publication search box.
- Click the Search button, and you will get a list of articles from Consumer Reports that have to do with refrigerators, most recent first.
If you prefer to browse the current issue, you can click on "Publications" once you're in Masterfile Premier, and then type "Consumer Reports" in the publication search box. You can also bookmark this link, although you will need to type your library card and PIN to be able to access it from home. You'll click on the year you're interested and then the issue.
Happy researching!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
What You're Reading
Andrea B. (Hamilton) One Church, Many Tribes by Richard Twiss [library doesn't own]
"Richard Twiss offers his suggestions for overcoming the culture clash between Native Americans and the white Christian church. He writes of the church’s mistakes over the past centuries. I actually found this book at Fry’s. I found it interesting because, as a Christian, I always wondered how the white Christian church expected Indians to join after such offenses. Twiss is a Native American Christian pastor. "
Dana M. (Hamilton) The Last Coyote by Michael Connelly
"Explores how family history impact our lives today. Also how the results we search for are not always what we get. "
Jackie P. (Hamilton) The Astonishing Power of Emotions by Esther and Jerry Hicks
"This book gives real life examples of how to use the law of attraction and start feeling better immediately. "
Julie B. (Downtown) The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson
"Although not as humorous as her prior books, the author has a knack for combining ordinary situations with the unusual for great results."
Lisa W. (Downtown) The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addisen Allen
"Great book! I loved how she linked the sisters together and how each overcame and rose above their circumstances; Chloe learned to forgive, Josey learned to face her fears and Della Lee learned to love and lift another."
& The Host by Stephenie Meyer
"Captivating story of an alien invasion on earth. The plot was good with Wanderer (alien) living in Melanie's (an earth host) body. Melanie is still present within her body and the two must learn to function in the same body simultaneously. Jeb's "home" was fascinating and the story was intriguing as Wanderer chooses to leave the ease and simplicity of her alien life to live among humans. Stephenie Meyer is a great storyteller."
Meagan O. (Basha) Seventh Heaven by James Patterson
"I love the tension that is still mounting between Lindsay and her partner, but I will be sad to see the end of a relationship between her and Joe."
"Richard Twiss offers his suggestions for overcoming the culture clash between Native Americans and the white Christian church. He writes of the church’s mistakes over the past centuries. I actually found this book at Fry’s. I found it interesting because, as a Christian, I always wondered how the white Christian church expected Indians to join after such offenses. Twiss is a Native American Christian pastor. "
Dana M. (Hamilton) The Last Coyote by Michael Connelly
"Explores how family history impact our lives today. Also how the results we search for are not always what we get. "
Jackie P. (Hamilton) The Astonishing Power of Emotions by Esther and Jerry Hicks
"This book gives real life examples of how to use the law of attraction and start feeling better immediately. "
Julie B. (Downtown) The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson
"Although not as humorous as her prior books, the author has a knack for combining ordinary situations with the unusual for great results."
Lisa W. (Downtown) The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addisen Allen
"Great book! I loved how she linked the sisters together and how each overcame and rose above their circumstances; Chloe learned to forgive, Josey learned to face her fears and Della Lee learned to love and lift another."
& The Host by Stephenie Meyer
"Captivating story of an alien invasion on earth. The plot was good with Wanderer (alien) living in Melanie's (an earth host) body. Melanie is still present within her body and the two must learn to function in the same body simultaneously. Jeb's "home" was fascinating and the story was intriguing as Wanderer chooses to leave the ease and simplicity of her alien life to live among humans. Stephenie Meyer is a great storyteller."
Meagan O. (Basha) Seventh Heaven by James Patterson
"I love the tension that is still mounting between Lindsay and her partner, but I will be sad to see the end of a relationship between her and Joe."
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Fantastic summer movie experience
Are you bored beyond belief with yet another hot and humid summer day in the Sonoran Desert? If the answer is yes, I have an idea that will literally make your summer! Go see Hellboy II: The Golden Army at the new Cine-Capri at the Tempe Market Place.
This movie theatre is an experience in itself, and having been a regular at the Scottsdale 101 Capri, I can tell you there is no comparison. The newer Cine-Capri is built to enhance the magnificent stereo system and the seating layout, with lots of leg room, is more compact and just better all around! When you take a great director like Guillermo del Toro and combine his skills with magnificent costumes, unforgettable special effects, and marvelous acting, you are in for an incredibly good movie. Now add the Cine-Capri at the Tempe Market Place, and you have a fantastic summer experience! -Henry
This movie theatre is an experience in itself, and having been a regular at the Scottsdale 101 Capri, I can tell you there is no comparison. The newer Cine-Capri is built to enhance the magnificent stereo system and the seating layout, with lots of leg room, is more compact and just better all around! When you take a great director like Guillermo del Toro and combine his skills with magnificent costumes, unforgettable special effects, and marvelous acting, you are in for an incredibly good movie. Now add the Cine-Capri at the Tempe Market Place, and you have a fantastic summer experience! -Henry
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
What You're Reading
Reviews from last week's Summer Reading entries:
Walter M (Basha) Book Page Circular - July 2008 Edition - "I look forward to this "magazine" every month. I probably read at least 3 or more of the books that are reviewed each month! Thank you Chandler Library for offering this great publication!"
Michelle H. (Downtown) Digging for the Truth by Josh Bertstein "I loved this show on the History Channel, and even bought the first and second seasons (the only available that I can find). The host, Josh Bernstein, decided to write a behind the scenes type book to tell the stories behind what made it to TV. It was very interesting to hear about exactly how physically demanding filming was, how sick poor Josh got from traipsing about in the jungles and deserts...wow, what an ordeal! I am sad that Digging for the Truth isn't on TV anymore, but considering it nearly killed the host, and his 2 replacements didn't make it past an episode or two, I can understand. Love Josh Bernstein (not just because he's a nice looking guy) and hope he has more adventures in the future, filmed for television."
and
"Sue Henry's Alaska Mysteries [Murder on the Iditarod Trail is the first] are some of my favorites. In this latest installment, musher Jessie Arnold is back on the sled when someone has the audacity to be murdered on her property, on a dog run she'd created earlier. In between murder, earthquakes and visits from old friends, she and boyfriend --Trooper Alex Jensen-- manage to untangle the web of deceit in ever decreasing daylight. Loved the setting of this well written book, especially as a former resident of the 49th state."
Debbie W. (Hamilton) The Melting of Maggie Bean [Juvenile fiction] by Tricia Rayburn - "Good reinforcement of positive self-image even without the perfect body."
Lisa B. (Hamilton) Fractured Mind by Robert B. Oxnam-"Not sure if multiple personality disorder was accurately described. First Person Plural was a much better book on the same topic.
Debra G. 90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey - "An incredible story about a minister who died in a horrific car accident, and visits Heaven. He then comes back to this world and must face incredible hardships. I found this book very encouraging and reassuring that a real Heaven does indeed exist, and that our lives here on earth may be difficult, but there is glory in the end."
Walter M (Basha) Book Page Circular - July 2008 Edition - "I look forward to this "magazine" every month. I probably read at least 3 or more of the books that are reviewed each month! Thank you Chandler Library for offering this great publication!"
Michelle H. (Downtown) Digging for the Truth by Josh Bertstein "I loved this show on the History Channel, and even bought the first and second seasons (the only available that I can find). The host, Josh Bernstein, decided to write a behind the scenes type book to tell the stories behind what made it to TV. It was very interesting to hear about exactly how physically demanding filming was, how sick poor Josh got from traipsing about in the jungles and deserts...wow, what an ordeal! I am sad that Digging for the Truth isn't on TV anymore, but considering it nearly killed the host, and his 2 replacements didn't make it past an episode or two, I can understand. Love Josh Bernstein (not just because he's a nice looking guy) and hope he has more adventures in the future, filmed for television."
and
"Sue Henry's Alaska Mysteries [Murder on the Iditarod Trail is the first] are some of my favorites. In this latest installment, musher Jessie Arnold is back on the sled when someone has the audacity to be murdered on her property, on a dog run she'd created earlier. In between murder, earthquakes and visits from old friends, she and boyfriend --Trooper Alex Jensen-- manage to untangle the web of deceit in ever decreasing daylight. Loved the setting of this well written book, especially as a former resident of the 49th state."
Debbie W. (Hamilton) The Melting of Maggie Bean [Juvenile fiction] by Tricia Rayburn - "Good reinforcement of positive self-image even without the perfect body."
Lisa B. (Hamilton) Fractured Mind by Robert B. Oxnam-"Not sure if multiple personality disorder was accurately described. First Person Plural was a much better book on the same topic.
Debra G. 90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey - "An incredible story about a minister who died in a horrific car accident, and visits Heaven. He then comes back to this world and must face incredible hardships. I found this book very encouraging and reassuring that a real Heaven does indeed exist, and that our lives here on earth may be difficult, but there is glory in the end."
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
What You're Reading
Some of the book reviews submitted last week:
Randall M. (Downtown) Sex Money Kiss by Gene Simmons (Library owns print version) "He has a very insightful look on life. Whether he believes it or not, he is a great philosopher. Some day, future generations will study his philosophies in school. This is a great read...or in my case a great listen!"
Laurie G. (Sunset) When the Husband is the Suspect by F. Lee Bailey - "Fascinating to read all the details of different cases! I like to watch Court TV and this gave more details about some of the cases."
Tammy P. (Hamilton) Ritual of Proof by Dara Joy - "A fun and completely consuming page turner. A regency romance, but set in an alternate world where the women are the ruling class. Dara does a fascinating job of turning the age old story into a new adventure. Really a great, fun read I would highly recommend."
Collene K (Downtown) Sorcery and Cecelia, or, The enchanted chocolate pot : being the correspondence of two young ladies of quality regarding various magical scandals in London and the country by Patricia C. Wrede - "This book was fast paced, but light and entertaining. A fun diversion! The concept was also interesting - each of the authors created a character for herself, then they wrote letters to each other as if they were written by their characters. The end result was a fantastic story!"
Tonya W. (Downtown) Women's Intuition, by Lisa Samson - "The main character, Lark, of this book is a recluse. Her daughter is away at college, she hasn't spoken to her brother in years, her father is dead & her mother is a barely tolerable socialite. Her mother's housekeeper is the family confidante. When Lark's home burns down & she doesn't have any insurance she is forced to move back home. Lark plays piano at the local church & operates a praying hotline from home. I think the moral of the story is "when one door closes another one opens but it's H*ll in the hallway.""
Randall M. (Downtown) Sex Money Kiss by Gene Simmons (Library owns print version) "He has a very insightful look on life. Whether he believes it or not, he is a great philosopher. Some day, future generations will study his philosophies in school. This is a great read...or in my case a great listen!"
Laurie G. (Sunset) When the Husband is the Suspect by F. Lee Bailey - "Fascinating to read all the details of different cases! I like to watch Court TV and this gave more details about some of the cases."
Tammy P. (Hamilton) Ritual of Proof by Dara Joy - "A fun and completely consuming page turner. A regency romance, but set in an alternate world where the women are the ruling class. Dara does a fascinating job of turning the age old story into a new adventure. Really a great, fun read I would highly recommend."
Collene K (Downtown) Sorcery and Cecelia, or, The enchanted chocolate pot : being the correspondence of two young ladies of quality regarding various magical scandals in London and the country by Patricia C. Wrede - "This book was fast paced, but light and entertaining. A fun diversion! The concept was also interesting - each of the authors created a character for herself, then they wrote letters to each other as if they were written by their characters. The end result was a fantastic story!"
Tonya W. (Downtown) Women's Intuition, by Lisa Samson - "The main character, Lark, of this book is a recluse. Her daughter is away at college, she hasn't spoken to her brother in years, her father is dead & her mother is a barely tolerable socialite. Her mother's housekeeper is the family confidante. When Lark's home burns down & she doesn't have any insurance she is forced to move back home. Lark plays piano at the local church & operates a praying hotline from home. I think the moral of the story is "when one door closes another one opens but it's H*ll in the hallway.""
Thursday, June 26, 2008
New World Music additions
For all of you fans (and potential fans) of World Music. Not necessarily new, but new to us! Click title to see if it's checked in (and place a hold):
- E O mai - Keali‘i Reichel (1997) Sample on Amazon - Hawaiian music, sung in English and Hawaiian - if you like Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (the artist who sang that hauntingly beautiful ukelele version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," you'll probably like this.
- Punahele - Ray Kane (1994) Sample on Amazon - Traditional Hawaiian slack key guitar music, "what you hear when you enter heaven," according to a reviewer.
- Rough Guide to Music of Nigeria and Ghana (2002) Sample on Amazon - Compilation from the fabulous Rough Guide series.
- Rokku mi rokka (Give and Take) - Youssou N'Dour (2007) Sample on Amazon - Latest from Senegal-born vocalist Youssou N'Dour, who has been an important figure on the world music scene since the 80s.
- Momento - Bebel Gilberto (2007) Sample on Amazon - Third album from one of the biggest artists of new Brazilian music (and daughter of Brazilian legend Joao Gilberto).
- Samba meu - Maria Rita (2007) Sample on Amazon - Lovely Samba collection from another "biggie" of Brazilian music.
- Rustico - Pedro Luis Ferre (2007) Sample on Amazon - Cuban singer and songwriter Pedro Luis Ferrer shows off a variety of music styles and a bit of social commentary.
- Breathing under water - Anoushka Shankar and Karsh Kale (2007) Sample on Amazon - Classical Indian music meets Electronica meets everything else. Guest appearances by Anoushka's father Ravi Shankar, half-sister Norah Jones and Sting. --Deidre
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Book review: Under Enemy Colors by S. Thomas Russell
It is 1793, and Lieutenant Charles Hayden has been appointed to the HMS Themis to guard the waters between England and France – and to spy on the Themis’ tyrannical captain. The ship is a disgrace, the crew is divided into violent factions, and the captain’s erratic behavior is driving his men closer and closer to mutiny. Hayden must defy his captain to bring the Themis into fighting shape without ruining his own career, but even the threat of court-martial is not as great as the weight on his own conscience. Because Hayden’s mother is French – and this war means that he must fight against his own people.
With Under Enemy Colors, S. Thomas Russell begins an exciting new series of seafaring adventures filled with action and rich with historical color. Charles Hayden is a compelling hero: bound by a strong sense of duty yet filled with doubt about his own dual nature, and strangely drawn to the enemy’s ideals of equality and freedom. The next novel in the series is due out in 2009.
Readers who find themselves swept away by sea stories can also check out the superb novels by Patrick O’Brian, the classic Horatio Hornblower series by C.S. Forester, or for historical adventure with a fantasy twist, try the books of Naomi Novik. - Michelle
With Under Enemy Colors, S. Thomas Russell begins an exciting new series of seafaring adventures filled with action and rich with historical color. Charles Hayden is a compelling hero: bound by a strong sense of duty yet filled with doubt about his own dual nature, and strangely drawn to the enemy’s ideals of equality and freedom. The next novel in the series is due out in 2009.
Readers who find themselves swept away by sea stories can also check out the superb novels by Patrick O’Brian, the classic Horatio Hornblower series by C.S. Forester, or for historical adventure with a fantasy twist, try the books of Naomi Novik. - Michelle
Friday, June 20, 2008
The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk is all about scientist Bruce Banner ( Edward Norton) who is attempting to find a remedy for his gamma radiation poisoning that reacts to his rage by turning him into a monster; or as General Thunderbolt Ross ( Tim Roth) sees it, the ultimate fighting machine. From Bruce Banner’s hiding place ( in the poverty stricken hill slums of Brazil), to his past university campus and finally to New York City, General Thunderbolt is determined to capture Bruce despite the efforts of the lovely Betty Ross (Liv Tyler) to save him. For those interested, Betty Ross is both Bruce’s lover and General Thunderbolt’s daughter. In my opinion, the excellent acting by Edward Norton, Liv Tyler, and Tim Roth combined with some great special effects overshadowed Marvel’s last sensation Iron Man. However, there are some who think The Incredible Hulk is plagued with too much romance. - Henry
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
What You're Reading
Lord Perfect by Loretta Chase-Tammy (Hamilton)
I had a hard time warming up to this book-the first 25 pages or so really seemed to drag by. But it did pick up pace, and became an enjoyable read. The conversations seemed a bit stilted, but I still enjoyed the end result and would recommend the book.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls-Michelle (Hamilton)
Truly an inspirational story. Although her upbringing was full of hardships it goes to show that there is beauty in everything and everyone. It's merely a matter of perspective.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis - Suzanne (Downtown)
One of the best books I have read on what being a Christian is all about. Very well written.
The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier - Jennifer (Downtown)
He has several unique, enlightening concepts which he illustrated well with his own personal experiences. The one that really caught my attention was the reason for and method of revisiting your failures - very thought-provoking.
In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan - Karen (Downtown)
This book gives a very interesting background on the science of nutrition and good nutrition advice overall. I think all Americans should read this!
Color Zoo by Lois Ehlert-Mai (Hamilton)
My three-year-old son really likes the different colors and shapes that are used in this book to describe the various animals.
He learned the basic shapes and colors by re-reading this book.
I had a hard time warming up to this book-the first 25 pages or so really seemed to drag by. But it did pick up pace, and became an enjoyable read. The conversations seemed a bit stilted, but I still enjoyed the end result and would recommend the book.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls-Michelle (Hamilton)
Truly an inspirational story. Although her upbringing was full of hardships it goes to show that there is beauty in everything and everyone. It's merely a matter of perspective.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis - Suzanne (Downtown)
One of the best books I have read on what being a Christian is all about. Very well written.
The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier - Jennifer (Downtown)
He has several unique, enlightening concepts which he illustrated well with his own personal experiences. The one that really caught my attention was the reason for and method of revisiting your failures - very thought-provoking.
In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan - Karen (Downtown)
This book gives a very interesting background on the science of nutrition and good nutrition advice overall. I think all Americans should read this!
Color Zoo by Lois Ehlert-Mai (Hamilton)
My three-year-old son really likes the different colors and shapes that are used in this book to describe the various animals.
He learned the basic shapes and colors by re-reading this book.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Books by Email
Have you tried our Online Book Club? Just sign up with your email address, and every day, Monday through Friday, you'll receive part of a chapter from a book. A new title begins each Monday. If it's enough to whet your appetite, you can check the book out and read the rest! Here are the categories available: Fiction, Nonfiction, Teen, Business, Romance, Inspirational, Science Fiction, Mystery, Horror, Audio, and Pre-Publication. It's a great way to sample a title that might be new to you!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
What You're Reading
When Joy Came to Stay by Karen Kingsbury - Debra (Downtown) "This is a real tear-jerker and really made me think about depression and the foster care system."
Dijiste que me Quenas by Maria Antonietta Collins - Odalys (Downtown) "This portrayed a tragedy that can be suffered by anyone, but also showed a very positive way of coping with it - with love, compassion and forgiveness."
Prayer by Phillip Yancey-Suzanne (Hamilton) "A complete exposition on prayer and all of its aspects. Phillip Yancey is a wonderful author on spiritual subjects. I always enjoy his writings--it's like an investigative report--stimulated the intellectual in me."
Austenland by Shannon Hale-Marinda (Hamilton) "This is for die hard Jane Austen fans and a very fun and entertaining read."
Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas - Laurie (Sunset Library) "It is an interesting and well-researched historical fiction book about life in a town near a Japanese Internment Camp during World War II."
Can't Wait to Get to Heaven by Fannie Flagg - Kimberly (Sunset Library) "It was like listening to a Great Aunt or Grandmother tell a story while having some iced tea sitting on the porch listening to the stories of the "Good Ole Days"."
Dijiste que me Quenas by Maria Antonietta Collins - Odalys (Downtown) "This portrayed a tragedy that can be suffered by anyone, but also showed a very positive way of coping with it - with love, compassion and forgiveness."
Prayer by Phillip Yancey-Suzanne (Hamilton) "A complete exposition on prayer and all of its aspects. Phillip Yancey is a wonderful author on spiritual subjects. I always enjoy his writings--it's like an investigative report--stimulated the intellectual in me."
Austenland by Shannon Hale-Marinda (Hamilton) "This is for die hard Jane Austen fans and a very fun and entertaining read."
Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas - Laurie (Sunset Library) "It is an interesting and well-researched historical fiction book about life in a town near a Japanese Internment Camp during World War II."
Can't Wait to Get to Heaven by Fannie Flagg - Kimberly (Sunset Library) "It was like listening to a Great Aunt or Grandmother tell a story while having some iced tea sitting on the porch listening to the stories of the "Good Ole Days"."
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Green Living Suggestions
Every so often we hear from library members whose lives have been impacted by a book. One example came from Nancy, who read Green Clean: The Environmentally Sound Guide to Cleaning Your Home, by Linda Mason Horton. She says this title is "very thorough and educational and already changing the health of my family." If you're interested in similar material, try Organic Housekeeping: In Which the Nontoxic Avenger Shows You How to Improve Your Health and That of Your Family While You Save Time, Money, and, Perhaps, Your Sanity, by Ellen Sandbeck. And while you're in this do-it-yourself mode, you might enjoy The Ultimate Natural Beauty Book: 100 Organic Beauty Products to Make and Use Easily at Home, by Josephine Fairley.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Current Events Discussion Group
Come join us Wednesday, June 11 from 7:00 pm until 8:30 pm at the Downtown Library to discuss current events. Tell us about your favorite current event book(s), magazine and newspaper article(s), Internet sites - as we share current events and make arrangements for future meetings!
Call 480-782-2803 to register or click here to register online.
Call 480-782-2803 to register or click here to register online.
Friday, June 6, 2008
What You're Reading
Public Secrets by Nora Roberts - Mary (Sunset Library) - "Enjoyed observing Emma, the main character talk to people in her life from a child to an engaging adult. Nora Roberts really knows how to weave a story and involve the reader in the character's life. I enjoy reading her books."
Garlic and Sapphires: the secret life of a critic in disguise by Ruth Reichl - Ann (Sunset Library) -"Witty and light-hearted reading."
Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltx - Karen (Sunset Library) - "Provides a way to look at one's thinking and perception of their life/image in order to change their thinking/image to a more favorable image, way of living and more positive self."
Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon - Tammy (Sunset Library) - "Inspiring, easy to read, comfortable and still interesting even though latest in a long line of Mitford books."
The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom - Elizabeth (Sunset Library) - "Engaging to read and makes you think."
Garlic and Sapphires: the secret life of a critic in disguise by Ruth Reichl - Ann (Sunset Library) -"Witty and light-hearted reading."
Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltx - Karen (Sunset Library) - "Provides a way to look at one's thinking and perception of their life/image in order to change their thinking/image to a more favorable image, way of living and more positive self."
Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon - Tammy (Sunset Library) - "Inspiring, easy to read, comfortable and still interesting even though latest in a long line of Mitford books."
The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom - Elizabeth (Sunset Library) - "Engaging to read and makes you think."
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
The Strangers
With some of this summer’s top blockbusters opening during the last weeks of May, we were treated to fighting mice and dwarfs in Prince Caspian and Indiana Jones taking on the evil Soviet Empire. Yet amongst all this mayhem an exciting, unheralded murder suspense thriller snuck onto the scene.
Following the opening credits, the movie takes us to a chic party where two lovers seem to be having a relationship crisis. As the pair journey forth, we learn that they are going to a borrowed summer house deep in the back woods. Just about the time we are about to fall asleep, thinking this is yet another summer cinematic bust, there comes a loud knocking at the door. From here on, with brilliant directing by Bryan Bertino and some outstanding performances by Liv Tyler, Scott Speedman, and the entire cast, we are literally scared to death!
A rather run-of-the-mill storyline ends up becoming suspense you’re not likely to forget because Bertino knows how to combine terrifying performances with great camera work. Liv Tyler gives Bertino and movie-watchers all they could possible ask for. Her facial expressions, cascading screams, and emotional acting will make you want to see more of Liv Tyler.
So if you’re tired of weird creatures fighting bad humans or Indiana taking on evil Russians, this could be the summer film you’ve been waiting for. While not for the squeamish or happy-ending viewer, those who thrill to suspense, enjoy being frightened out of their wits, and don’t find blood revolting will totally enjoy The Strangers. -Henry
Following the opening credits, the movie takes us to a chic party where two lovers seem to be having a relationship crisis. As the pair journey forth, we learn that they are going to a borrowed summer house deep in the back woods. Just about the time we are about to fall asleep, thinking this is yet another summer cinematic bust, there comes a loud knocking at the door. From here on, with brilliant directing by Bryan Bertino and some outstanding performances by Liv Tyler, Scott Speedman, and the entire cast, we are literally scared to death!
A rather run-of-the-mill storyline ends up becoming suspense you’re not likely to forget because Bertino knows how to combine terrifying performances with great camera work. Liv Tyler gives Bertino and movie-watchers all they could possible ask for. Her facial expressions, cascading screams, and emotional acting will make you want to see more of Liv Tyler.
So if you’re tired of weird creatures fighting bad humans or Indiana taking on evil Russians, this could be the summer film you’ve been waiting for. While not for the squeamish or happy-ending viewer, those who thrill to suspense, enjoy being frightened out of their wits, and don’t find blood revolting will totally enjoy The Strangers. -Henry
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
CPL Book Groups
Are you looking for a stimulating environment where you can share your love of books and make new friends? Consider joining one of our book groups. We currently have six active book groups at our branches:
Downtown
Wednesday Night Book Discussion
The last Wednesday of the month, 7:00pm This month's book
Hamilton
General Fiction Book Group
The first Thursday of the month, 1:00pm This month's book
Mystery Fiction Book Group
The third Thursday of the month, 1:00pm This month's book
Sunset
Tuesday Morning Book Group
The first Tuesday of the month, 10:00am This month's book
Monday Night Book Group
The second Monday of the month, 6:30pm This month's book
Mystery Round Table
The third Wednesday of the month, 7:00pm This month's book
If you're interested in joining any of these discussions, you can pick up a copy of the current book at the branch where the discussion will take place. Check the Events Calendar on our homepage for specific dates. Everyone is welcome!
Downtown
Wednesday Night Book Discussion
The last Wednesday of the month, 7:00pm This month's book
Hamilton
General Fiction Book Group
The first Thursday of the month, 1:00pm This month's book
Mystery Fiction Book Group
The third Thursday of the month, 1:00pm This month's book
Sunset
Tuesday Morning Book Group
The first Tuesday of the month, 10:00am This month's book
Monday Night Book Group
The second Monday of the month, 6:30pm This month's book
Mystery Round Table
The third Wednesday of the month, 7:00pm This month's book
If you're interested in joining any of these discussions, you can pick up a copy of the current book at the branch where the discussion will take place. Check the Events Calendar on our homepage for specific dates. Everyone is welcome!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
What you're reading
Summer Reading Program started last Tuesday, and we've already had quite a few entries into our weekly drawing. Here's what you have been reading!:
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares- Marisa (Downtown Library) - "A wonderful book to share with a daughter or by yourself! I loved the storyline so much I'm moving on to the second book in the series!"
Rhett Butler's People by Donald McCaig- Katie (Downtown Library) - "It was great to hear the Gone with the Wind story all over again from Rhett's perspective."
The Quiet Girl by Per Hoeg - Victoria (Hamilton) - Appreciated the author's "superbly drawn characters."
The Quiet Girl by Per Hoeg - Victoria (Hamilton) - Appreciated the author's "superbly drawn characters."
I Wish I Had a Red Dress by Pearl Cleage - Lorraine (Basha) - "Pearl Cleage is a brilliant author and this book is no exception. This book is about a female widower living in a small town who needs to break out of her shell. Pearle has a very good way of bringing you right into the world with the characters, making you feel like you know them personally."
Leadership and Self-Deception - Lisa (Downtown) - "Wonderful insights to help readers discover how they feel about and treat others around them. Amazing ideas to help empower families and other organizations. Loved the book and now want to purchase it for my own library!"
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham - Janet (Downtown) - "Although I have only watched football in passing, I knew the basics. I could somewhat understand the games. An interesting look into the sport and food loving male pyshe. Nice , easy read."
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Reading... It's a Family Affair!
Can you believe it's summer again? One of the best things about summer is the opportunity to enjoy a slower pace of life and indulge in activities you may not be able to during the rest of the year. This includes reading! We encourage you and your family to participate in our summer reading programs. Challenge yourself to read something new or to read more than you have in summers past. While you're entertaining and educating yourself you are setting a good example for the children and teens in your life and you just may win a prize!
It's As Easy As 1, 2, 3!
1. Read a book, listen to an audiobook, read a magazine or journal, or read a book aloud to a child, a significant other or even a pet.
2. Complete a slip with name, phone number and title for each item read, or fill out an entry form online.
3. Drop slip in entry box for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.
Slips can be picked up at and returned to all four Chandler branches. The prizes are gift cards to fabulous restaurants and stores.
We also have programs for children and teens, so this summer make reading a family affair!
It's As Easy As 1, 2, 3!1. Read a book, listen to an audiobook, read a magazine or journal, or read a book aloud to a child, a significant other or even a pet.
2. Complete a slip with name, phone number and title for each item read, or fill out an entry form online.
3. Drop slip in entry box for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.
Slips can be picked up at and returned to all four Chandler branches. The prizes are gift cards to fabulous restaurants and stores.
We also have programs for children and teens, so this summer make reading a family affair!
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