The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Eighth Grade Bites

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Eighth Grade Bites
by Heather Brewer

This young adult novel (recommended for age 10 and above) tells the story of Vladimir Tod, a half-vampire, half-human 8th grader living in a small town with his guardian after his parents die in a mysterious fire. Vlad struggles with the normal angst of all 8th graders and, in addition, has to deal with his need for blood and his fangs, which want to come out at inopportune moments. The story has a dark side, too: Vlad is convinced that his substitute teacher is a vampire-hunter who killed his beloved English teacher and is now after Vlad himself. As Vlad discovers more and more information about his past, he no longer knows whom he can trust. Filled with vampires, blood, kidnapping and murder, this book is a good choice for young reluctant readers. It is the first title in a planned series.

- Linda

Bella

Bella
DVD

I haven't seen a movie as heartwarming as this in a long time. Jose is a chef at a Mexican restaurant in NYC and Nina is a lovely waitress. When Nina gets fired for being late they both take a train to visit Jose's warm & affectionate family. Dinner at Jose's family home becomes a meaningful experience for both. The chemistry between Nina and Jose is genuine even if their lives are complicated.

The ending is perfect with redemption, love and understanding. Rated PG this is a movie for the whole family to enjoy.
- Holly

Good Dog. Stay.

Good Dog. Stay.
by Anna Quindlen

"The life of a good dog is like the life of a good person, only shorter and more compressed," writes Anna Quindlen of her black Lab, Beau. She writes with wit and insight of what she's learned by watching him over the years. Inspiring and humorous, Good Dog. Stay. honors the life of a beloved companion, and offers a lesson: "Sometimes an old dog teaches you new tricks."

- Lynn

Shakedown

Shakedown
by Joel Goldman

FBI agent Jack Davis becomes incapacitated by violent, painful tremors and is forced to take medical leave. The case he was working on, the brutal slaying of a drug dealer, two thugs, and the dealer's girlfriend and baby, is haunting Jack and he can't leave it alone. This case becomes intertwined with another, involving Jack's daughter and possible police corruption. This was a great beach read - suspenseful and fast-moving.

- Linda

The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted: And Other Small Acts of Liberation

The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted: And Other Small Acts of Liberation
by Elizabeth Berg

Elizabeth Berg’s previous books have shown again and again that she knows women, and her newest book, The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted, is no exception. This collection of short stories of rebellion is sometimes humorous, sometimes bittersweet, but always enjoyable - I thoroughly enjoyed each one!

- Lynn

Guide to Ohio Vegetable Gardening

Guide to Ohio Vegetable Gardening
by James A. Fizzell

Before getting into basic gardening, the author starts out with the “roots” of gardening, which is the seasons, understanding soils, composting, soil pH, and other important information to help growers obtain a suitable growing environment for vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

The author also explains when, where and how to plant as well as care and maintenance. There are additional comments regarding variety, when to harvest, recipes, and helpful hints so the gardener can obtain the most enjoyment from their produce and herbs.

- Rosie

Whisper of Danger

Whisper of Danger
by Catherine Palmer

Follow Jessica Thornton and her son, Splinter, as they unexpectedly inherit a mansion and subsequently move from England to a remote island named Zanzibar, off the coast of Africa. Working diligently as an illustrator and single mother, she struggles to overcome issues in her life, mainly her husband who abandoned her years ago. She quickly stumbles into a dangerous web of greed, deception, and murder! This book is packed with history, mystery, and romance, with an interesting cast of characters. You will enjoy this adventure! I'm looking forward to reading more Catherine Palmer books.

- Ann