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.

May 2007

Deep Storm by Lincoln Child
Fiction 2007
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Deep Storm - it has a lot of action adventure and the theories explored on Atlantis are intricate. The author has created interesting characters,  heavy handed generals, and outstanding action sequences. This book kept me guessing the whole way through. Lincoln Child has been consistently improving with his writing skills and continues to prove he has the ability to compete with Clive Cussler in the future.
Reviewed by DK

Fame Junkies: the Hidden Truths Behind America's Favorite Addiction
Nonfiction 2007
Buffalo native and National Public Radio contributor Jake Halpern takes a look at the dark side of fame and celebrity culture. From resources in Western New York to the glamour of Hollywood, Halpern examines child actors, agents, celebrity assistants and celebrities to see how this uniquely American world works.
Reviewed by Barbara Gordon

 

The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan
Nonfiction 2006
A revealing look at what's really on your dinner plate. In wonderfully readable prose, Michael Pollan scrutinizes the corporate industrial machine that determines what we eat. Bound to make you more thoughtful while shopping and eating. Not for the faint hearted. Bon appetit!
Reviewed by PMM

 

The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio: How My Mother Raised 10 Kids on 25 words or less by Terry Ryan
Nonfiction 2001
A nonfiction account of the author's childhood growing up in the 50's. His mother was word savvy and entered many contests and more times than not, she won the contests which in turn helped the family along in lean times. Very humorous and warm - this book was also made into a movie starring Woody Harrelson and Julianne Moore.
Reviewed by DS

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
Fiction 2006
A Chicago journalist must return to her small hometown in Missouri to get an exclusive on the murders of two young girls there. This one is a thriller, full of family secrets.
Reviewed by KLS

 

Utopia by Lincoln Child
Fiction 2002
A surprise thriller from the co-author of Relic. What if Disney Land met West world, and then was held hostage by a terrorist group? There are a few subplots and many thrill rides, beautiful descriptions of the future, and where we could be heading. It entertains the question: could a theme park be taken hostage?
Reviewed by DK