Monday, August 29, 2011

Abigail's New Hope

Abigail's New Hope: Wayne County Series #1
by Mary Ellis

Abigail Graber serves her community in Wayne County as an Amish midwife until a difficult delivery takes a devastating turn. Despite her best efforts, the young mother dies, but the baby is saved.

Abigail is sent to jail, and her sister Catherine is sent to take care of Abby's children while Abby's husband, Daniel, struggles to work the farm. Catherine meets Daniel's cousin, Isaiah, who lives in their woods and is deaf.

While Abby searches for forgiveness, Catherine changes, and in return, finds love.

A great start to a new series by a local author!

- Ann

Friday, August 26, 2011

The Mirage Man

The Mirage Man: Bruce Ivins, the Anthrax Attacks, and America's Rush to War
by David Willman


Less than a month following 9-11-2001 the US was a target of an anthrax attack. Letters were sent from a mailbox in New Jersey targeting politicians and members of the media. For years this case went unsolved.

David Willman does a good job of taking you through the events leading up to the attacks, and the following poorly run FBI investigation. For years the FBI focused on the wrong man, never suspecting microbiologist Bruce Ivins to whom they often turned for information about anthrax.

This is a tight and well-written book. You don't have to be a math or chemistry whiz to understand it. It is a quick read and well worth it.

- Kathy S.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Hummingbirds and Butterflies

Hummingbirds and Butterflies
by Bill Thompson III and Connie Toops

An excellent resource explaining the “how to’s” of attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your backyard. Not only does this book list plants to attract different species, but also illustrates garden plans. Plants are important, but nectar, the correct feeder, and feeder placement play a major role as well. The life cycle is described, as well as habitat, behavior, distinctive marks, and sounds that hummingbirds make. For being so small, they sure do make a lot of noise! The photographs and illustrations to help identify different species and their habits are outstanding and colorful. There is also a chapter on troubleshooting, including frequently asked questions. A lot of myths surrounding butterflies and hummingbirds are debunked and the truth explained.

This book is an excellent tool for any gardener, bird watcher, or nature lover, and would be a wonderful addition to any personal library.

- Rose

Friday, August 12, 2011

Clara and Mr. Tiffany

Clara and Mr. Tiffany
by Susan Vreeland

Clara Driscoll worked for Louis Comfort Tiffany as a glass artist in the 1890s through the first decade of the twentieth century. This interesting historical novel is based on this period in her life. Set in New York City, Vreeland deals with many of the social issues of the time. Women in the workplace, women’s rights, immigrant living and working conditions are a few that are examined.

A fascinating look into the art of Tiffany Studio and a riveting period in America.

- Rochelle

Monday, August 8, 2011

Pastures New

Pastures New
by Ann Purser

After Frank Palmer's job is eliminated due to his company down-sizing, he and his wife Peggy take a leap of faith and purchase a post office in a quiet English village named Round Ringford.

Ringford awaits the Palmers in eager anticipation. Village scourge, Ivy Beasley, lurks behind her lace curtains like an old spider waiting to pounce. Kindly Jean Jenkins, with her brood of children, is helpful and welcoming, and Doreen Price, farmer's wife, becomes Peggy's best friend.

Never a dull moment in this quaint village! Followers of the Miss Read stories will surely enjoy this.

- Ann