Divine Justice

Divine Justice
by David Baldacci

Being the fourth book in Baldacci’s Camel Club series, he does not disappoint. Just as enjoyable as the first three books. If I like a writer, I will try to read all of their books. David Baldacci is a great writer. His story lines keep you guessing and his characters are very memorable. If you enjoy a fast-paced suspense, you will definitely like this and probably all of David Baldacci’s books.

- Patti

An Irish Country Christmas

An Irish Country Christmas

by Patrick Taylor

The wonderful characters of Dr. Fingal Flahertie O’ Reilly, his young protégé Dr. Barry Laverty, and their housekeeper Kinky are brought to life again in An Irish Country Christmas. Share their warmth, humor, and holiday traditions, and get to know the patients and people living in the cozy Irish village of Ballybucklebo.

Other delightful books by this author are An Irish Country Doctor and An Irish Country Village. You will enjoy reading how Dr. Laverty came to Ballybucklebo to join Dr. O’Reilly’s medical practice and how he gained the trust and respect of Kinky, the village, and Dr. O’Reilly.

- Rose

Comments from our Thursday Afternoon Book Club

Water For Elephants
by: Sara Gruen

Five out of five coffee cups that's what the Ladies of the Book Club gave this fabulous read last Thursday at our monthly meeting (1:30, second Thursday of the month, Burton Library). It's not often we agree so completely on a selection, but this love story set in the early years of the depression and prohibition thrilled us from beginning to end. Against the back drop of a circus train Jacob Janowski rides the rails, falls in love and cares for an elephant. Reminiscing as an elderly man he weaves his tale while sharing the wisdom and insights that come from being in his nineties. It is a book that may read quickly, but will stay with you long after you finish.

Debbie Barber
The Ladies of the Book Club

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games
by Suzanne Collins

Set in a futuristic society (the former USA) run by "The Capitol," the country of Panem is a police state divided into 12 districts. Though some of the districts are fairly well off, those in District 12, the coal district, are literally starving. Sixteen-year old Katniss Everdeen feeds her family by hunting illegally. Each year, The Capitol hosts "The Hunger Games" - a televised contest in which one boy and one girl from each district are chosen by lottery to compete. The contest is on live television and the players compete to the death until only one teen remains. This winner then returns home to a life of luxury. All citizens of Panem are required to watch and many give money to sponsor favored contestants. When Katniss' gentle 12-year-old sister is chosen in the lottery, Katniss volunteers to take her place. Though the plot sounds like something I wouldn't enjoy reading, I could not put this book down. Katniss is absolutely compelling in her maturity, empathy and skill. Yes, there is bloodshed but it is tempered by the fast pace and twists and turns of plot. This is a terrific read!

-Linda

Dewey

Dewey
by Vicki Myron

A cat, a library, and a small midwest town. Need I say more?

I loved the story of Dewey, the abandoned cat, who lived at the Spencer Library for 19 years. A quick and heart-warming read!

- Dixie

Too Close To Home

Too Close to Home
by Linwood Barclay

This is the first time I have read this author. He is very, very good. I plan to read his other books as well.

In this particular book, a very bad thing happens in a good neighborhood in small-town upstate New York. The author paints a very believable picture of a middle-class family dealing with the issues of their life, and then something turns their lives upside-down. I don't want to give anything away, but if you like fast-paced suspense, you will like this book.

- Patti

Songbird

Songbird - by Eva Cassidy
(cd)

Eva Cassidy has the voice of an angel. Her music was little known during her lifetime, but she gained fame after her death in 1996. Her rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow took my breath away. She sings everything - jazz, gospel, folk, and more, and she sings everything well. Her music will touch your heart.

- Kathy S.

Lightning

Lightning
by Dean Koontz

I truly enjoyed this story and simply did not want to stop listening to Christopher Lane's narration. This is an older book, copyright 1988, but it's still great entertainment.

This story with a twist includes tragedy, suspense, and an element that I don't want to share - I don't want to spoil it for you.

I highly recommend this book by Dean Koontz.

- Beckie

No Reservations

No Reservations
with Anthony Bourdain
(DVD)

If you haven't seen No Reservations on the Travel Channel you are in for a treat. Anthony Bourdain is a hip chef who is willing to try just about anything. As he travels around the globe, he learns about the culture as well as the food. For being a seasoned foodie, he is surprisingly down to earth.

In Collection 3 he visits Cleveland and spends time with Michael Ruhlman and Harvey Pekar. He also visits Russia, LA, and Hong Kong among other places. Make some snacks (you will want to eat while watching this) and find out why he is called the "gastronomic Indiana Jones".

-Holly