What's Your Next Read?

If you're looking for a good book, don't forget to avail yourself of our What's Your Next Read? program, still going through June 7th.  We've had quite a few submissions from the public, and finding books has been just as much fun for staff!

For some other recommendations, here are some patron submissions from last year.  These books were read and mini-reviews included to submit for last year's Adult Summer Reading Program.

Wide as the Waters: The Story of the English Bible and the Revolution it Inspired, by Ben Bobrick.  Rated 4 out of 5.  The patron reviewer said, "Well-told story of how the King James Version of the Bible came to be... and how its development dramatically influence European and American history.  The author does an amazing job of tying together historical events within church history, world history, and vernacular translation activities."

Bitter is the New Black, by Jen Lancaster.  4 out of 5.  The patron reviewed: "I found this book had humourous [sic] comments throughout.  I found it to be an accurate look at living through the dot.com bomb (as I did).  I enjoyed the book overall and would generally recommend it unless you're currently unemployed-- in which case I'd say wait until employed."

Seaside, by Terri Blackstock.  3 out of 5.  "Seaside is a great short read, very heartwarming.  I found it gave me many reasons to slow down, count my blessings, and appreciate the important things in life-- namely family connection <3."

The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho.  2 out of 5.  "When the shepherd boy, Santiago, dreams of a great treasure, he sells all his sheep and sets out on a journey to a place he never expected.  This allegorical tale makes many wise points about living life to the fullest, but the vast mixture of different spiritual messages made the story a bit convoluted."

Tales of an African Vet, by Dr. Roy Aronson.  3 out of 5.  "Like a good boy scout, Dr. Aronson was always prepared when dealing with unpredictable African wild life.  Writing was a bit flat though stories were fascinating.  It was interesting to learn about the game parks [where] tourists came in to 'ooh' and 'aah' over the wild animals."

Dune, by [Frank] Herbert.  1 out of 5.  "An interesting alternate universe adventure, but the author's impersonal writing style kept this reader from connecting or even caring about any of the characters."

Me again!  Not every book is for every reader, and I appreciate the honesty reflected in these reviews.  Many more reviews were received last year, which we'll share in the coming weeks.  We've also received some quick recommendations this year, so check out the bulletin board across from the Information Desk to see what the competition is reading.  There have already been several submissions for June, and one for the Nook Tablet, so stop by the library soon to get in on the game!