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What Our Staff is Reading
The following are fiction and non-fiction titles that have been read and recommended by members of our staff. The initials or pen name of the contributing staff member are noted after each review. The titles may include award winners, not-so-recent bestsellers or a new look at the classics.
February 2008
The uncommon reader by Alan Bennett
Fiction 2007
A charming short story about how a chance discovery of a bookmobile parked near the palace has a profound influence on the Queen's reading habits and changes her perspective on life.
Reviewed by CAP
Loving Frank by Nancy Horan
Fiction 2007
Frank Lloyd Wright designed a new house for Edwin and Mamah Cheney in 1903, then promptly fell in love with Mrs. Cheney. Polite Chicago society was shocked when Frank and Mamah left their families to pursue their affair. A lively and interesting story about this artistic genius, his feminist lady-love, and the joys and sorrows that their scandalous behavior brought.
Reviewed by Jack
Yarn harlot: the secret life of a knitter by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
Fiction 2005
A laugh out loud book about hand knitting? Yep. If the corners of your mouth don't curl up when you read the chapter on the horrors of crocheting, check for a pulse. This book is a hoot. For all those who are truly obsessed with knitting or any other craft.
Reviewed by Minerva
Manhunt: the twelve day chase for Lincoln's killer by James Swanson
Nonfiction 2006
The book is about the search for John Wilkes Booth, the man who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. I recommend this title because it describes in detail the events leading up to the assassination, the Southern sympathizers who helped him make his escape, and how he was able to elude the Union army for 12 days. It also describes the possible conspiracies theorized by Secretary of War Stanton and other government officials. A must read for any history buff.
Reviewed by B-Man