Tulsa
event guide
INSIDE!
Book Review 4 7 10
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 6
F R E E
NEW AND OF INTEREST
C H E C K
One Tiny Lie
Excellent from cover to cover! Page 6
The Kitchen Pantry Cookbook How to avoid commercial condiments Page 9
I T
The Code Busters Club, Case #3
O U T
Puzzle fun for the younger set Page 11
A Burnable Book
Can you prevent what has already been prophesied? Page 13
The Circle
By Dave Eggers Knopf, $27.95, 491 pages
14
April 2014
Mae Holland has just landed her dream job, leaving behind her parents and her 20th century-based former employer for the Bay Area and the shiny promise of the latest, hottest tech firm to hit planet Earth – the Circle, a company that left Google, Facebook and Apple long behind in the dust. Taking place in an unknown, not-too-far-off future, Dave Eggers’ latest novel The Circle introduces us to an Orwellian future that is all too plausible. As you read you find yourself wondering, “Did these characters ever read 1984?” Eggers’ quick pacing keeps us flying
into the future, a world ruled by 20-somethings who see the complete erosion of privacy as a small price to pay for the convenience of all that the future promises. Along the way we meet Mae’s bad romantic choices; her oddly funny college roommate Annie; her wacky, yet proud, all-toohuman parents; and the amazing perks of the venture-capital-fueled high-tech startup lifestyle that makes normal life seem boring and unreal. Eggers has created a highly recommended, all-too-real tribute See Circle, cont’d on page 9
Freedom From Your Inner Critic Release the person you were meant to be! Page 15
51 Reviews INSIDE!
Book Reviews Category
Mystery SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Deliverance of Evil By Roberto Costantini, N.S. Thompson (translator) Quercus, $26.95, 576 pages Check this out! W hether you will want to read The Deliverance of Evil will depend on your attitude toward antiheroes. The book is about a man in a corrupt social system. In his twenties, he becomes a police officer and, as a survivor, he develops strong defensive abilities, i.e. if expedient, he’s violent. Because of his sexism, he’s one of the boys and blends in. Because of the violence, few dare challenge him. As a young officer, he gets involved in a murder case. He thinks he’s solved it but, in the moment of his triumph, a witness is discovered who shoots down the case in flames. His boss takes the blame, but our hero lives with the guilt of his failure. Now a senior officer, the past resurfaces and he’s embarrassed into reopening the old case. What then happens is completely riveting. This is a take-no-prisoners view of a corrupt society and a guide on what it takes to survive and prosper. The detail of the police procedural is brilliantly managed and, as we get closer to the end, the thriller wattage increases with increasingly desperate police officers chasing their tails as bullets fly and a key person is kidnapped. Reviewed by David Marshall Taken by the Wind (Jane Lawless Mysteries) By Ellen Hart Minotaur Books, $25.99, 336 pages Check this out! Taken by the Wind embarks us on the twenty-first mystery captained by Jane Lawless, restaurateur and PI. This time, two boys go missing and, when Jane arrives, the ransom demand is not far behind. Immediately pitched into the business of raising the money and then delivering it, Jane has
little time to think clearly about what might actually be happening. Indeed, when only one of the boys then returns home, it seems nothing can be taken at face value. The beauty of this simple story lies in the menace in the basic situation and the complexity of the puzzle underlying events. The recession has hit this small town hard and even the most devout are beginning to doubt whether God is really on their side. What raises the stakes is that the parents of one of the missing boys are a gay couple. As their anguish deepens, the latent homophobia in their area becomes more overt. Ellen Hart has crossed over from the more limited world of gay fiction to the mainstream. Even Jane is having relationship problems as an ex comes back into play and seems to have a predatory interest in the new girlfriend. Overall, this is a very enjoyable read. Reviewed by David Marshall Police: A Harry Hole Novel By Jo Nesbo Knopf, $25.95, 448 pages Check this out!
up and the sixteen book sequence leading into Nightworld. This is the second in an Early Years trilogy in which the young man comes to New York and begins to establish himself as an under-the-radar helper of the oppressed. Yes, if there’s a situation which is unlikely to be resolved by a strictly legal approach, Jack is the ultimate fixer (often leaving quite a high body count). So here comes the pitch. For those who know what’s going on, this is a great book, but there are going to be elements that will strike the uninitiated as distinctly odd; i.e. this is not the best place to begin reading about Jack. Arguably you should start with The Keep. It’s supernatural horror but it gives you a context for understanding who and what Jack is. It’s worth the effort. F Paul Wilson has created a great body of work. Reviewed by David Marshall
one is murdering police officers on the anniversaries of the crimes they failed to solve — a very different form of vigilante justice. When Harry does finally break his promise and rejoin the fight against crime, the results are immediate, but threaten to take him back over the line. That’s always the problem when you think you know whodunnit but don’t have the evidence to get a conviction. The temptation is to cut corners or perhaps even take the law into your own hands, a temptation that’s all the more seductive because police officers have been dying and their families deserve justice. The result is a final third that’s breathlessly exciting as Harry presses closer to the truth and the danger escalates both to himself and his family. Jo Nesbo delivers a masterclass in how to put a thriller together. Reviewed by David Marshall Dark City (Repairman Jack: Early Years Trilogy) By F. Paul Wilson Tor Books, $25.99, 368 pages Check this out! For some, all I need do to review Dark City is to shout, “THIS IS ANOTHER REPAIRMAN JACK NOVEL!” That group will laugh — they read it within days of it being released into the wild. For the rest of the world, meet Repairman Jack. There’s the YA trilogy of Jack growing
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Police is evidence no one is indispensable — this is the tenth book featuring Harry Hole, but he does not appear until about one-third of the way through and then only to say he wants no part of the investigation. This leaves it to the rest of the Boiler Room team to see what progress they can in this most testing of all cases: some-
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Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 2
Tulsa
Book Review
IN THIS ISSUE Mystery..........................................................2
Tulsa City-County Library 400 Civic Center Tulsa, Oklahoma 74103 Ph. (918) 549-7323 EDITOR IN CHIEF Ross Rojek ross@1776productions.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT James Rasmussen COPY EDITORS Annie Peters Gretchen Wagner Amy Simko Holly Scudero Audrey Curtis Alex Masri Do Cathy Carmode Lim Christie Spurlock James Rasmussen EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Audrey Curtis Christopher Hayden
WEBSITE TulsaBookReview.com
History & Current Events........................... 4, 5 Fiction.....................................................6, 7, 8 Cookbooks......................................................9 Teen Scene....................................................10 Tween Reads........................................... 10, 11 Kids’ Books...................................................11 Biography & Memoir....................................12 Historical Fiction..........................................13 Popular Culture............................................ 14 Romance....................................................... 14 Spirituality & Religion..................................15
FROM THE PUBLISHER April 13-19 marks National Library Week. I always like to remind people that there are more public libraries in the United States than Starbucks or McDonald’s and many are just as busy! Here at the Tulsa City-County Library, more than 10,000 people walk through our doors each and every day, and we estimate an equal number visiting us virtually. Libraries are alive and thriving in the U.S. and around the world! This year’s National Library Week theme is “Lives Change @ Your Library.” If that sounds familiar, rest assured that the Tulsa CityCounty Library had a hand in selecting this year’s theme, as it so closely matches our mission statement of “Libraries Change Lives.” But the theme would not have been a finalist if not for the president of the American Library Association and longtime teacher/ librarian Barbara Stripling, whose presidential initiative also is titled “Libraries Change Lives.” She will be in Tulsa early April to meet with librarians from across the state. Also coming to Tulsa in April is former Tulsa City-County Library staffer and Library Journal 2011 Librarian of the Year Nancy Pearl. Nancy often is heard nationally on National Public Radio. She will be at the OU-Tulsa Schusterman Learning Center on April 2 at 6:30 p.m. to speak and sign books from her popular Book Lust series. Her visit is sponsored by the OU School of Library and Information Studies, OU-Tulsa Schusterman Library and Tulsa City-County Library. In addition, teacher/librarian Matthew C. Winner, co-author of Teach Math With the Wii: Engage Your K-7 Students Through Gaming Technology, will speak to school media specialists, teachers and parents from across Tulsa County on April 16 at 4:30 p.m. at the Hardesty Regional Library. Matthew is a 2013 Library Journal Mover & Shaker and White House Champion of Change. His visit is presented in partnership with the Tulsa Regional Chamber Partners in Education. Nancy’s and Matthew’s visits are just two more ways lives change at your library!
Mind & Body Fitness.....................................15 Free Music Downloads..................................16 The Tulsa Book Review is published monthly by City Book Review. The opinions expressed in these pages are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Tulsa Book Review or City Book Review advertisers. All images are copyrighted by their respective copyright holders. All words ©2014, City Book Review
Gary Shaffer Tulsa City-County Library CEO
Coming Up! Summer is almost here! Mark your calendar for the 2014 Summer Reading Program, which begins May 27 and continues through Aug. 2. “Fizz, Boom, Read” is the theme of the children’s program; “Spark a Reaction” is the theme for the teen/tween program. We’ll also debut the Adult Summer Reading Program in June. Check the May issue of the Tulsa Book Review for more details.
Book Reviews Category
History & Current Events SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Hitler’s Forgotten Victims: The Holocaust and the Disabled By Suzanne Evans The History Press Ltd, $14.98, 165 pages Check this out! In Hitler’s Forgotten Victims: The Holocaust and the Disabled, author Suzanne Evans delves into one of the lesser known yet hugely significant aspects of Nazi “racial hygiene” policy: the state-sponsored program to rid Germany of its mentally and physically disabled population. At a mere 165 pages, the book is economical yet packs a powerful punch. Using primary and secondary sources that are well-documented, Evans lays out in chilling detail the blueprint for genocide that was ultimately directed against Jews, Gypsies, Poles, homosexuals and a variety of other groups, but which began with disabled German children. Readers may be surprised to learn that Hitler was a great admirer of American eugenicists, who led the way in the compulsory sterilization of people with disabilities in the early 20th century. By the 1930s, Social Darwinism had such a foothold in Germany that the Nazis were able to recruit thousands of nurses, doctors and schoolteachers to take an active role in mass murder. Honing their large-scale gassing techniques first on disabled children and later on adults with disabilities, Nazi “scientists” justified this “euthanasia” in heroic terms: by killing so-called “useless eaters” Germany could channel economic and nutritional resources toward the “superior” German master race. With such well-documented instances of torture, sterilizations, starvation wards, gassing parties, dissections and the desecration of human remains, it is startling to discover at the end of the book that so few of the perpetrators were indicted at Nurem-
berg and many continued to practice medicine for decades without reprisal. Evans avoids the pitfall of sensationalizing what is already a story worthy of the most graphic horror film. She points out that: “Discrimination against people with disabilities did not begin with the Holocaust. Nor did it end with the defeat of the Nazis.” And her book is both a record and a warning. Reviewed by Suzie Bogle, director, Council for Holocaust Education American Spies By Michael J. Sulick Georgetown University Press, $26.95, 320 pages Check this out! American Spies is about A mericans who spied for other governments against the United States. The author has been head of the CIA’s counterintelligence division and that inside perspective removes the sensationalism often associated with spy books; this makes the narratives much more believable. In the book you meet people mostly considered ordinary who because of money, family or social problems are convinced or volunteer to pass secrets to the Soviets, the Chinese, or Israel. Only after they are caught are the often darker sides of their personas brought to light. The book contains stories of Walker, Pelton, Howard, Pollard, Ames and Hanssen and others. Their clandestine efforts hurt the United States militarily, economically, politically and industrially. The losses are hard to calculate but are many tens of billions of dollars at least. The book is very readable; it is a history of espionage played out on American shores. The stories are long enough to be detailed but short enough to hold attention. While reading I kept hoping someone would find out about
them and stop the leakage of secrets but usually they were able to spy for years undetected. I very much recommend this book as a caution to our current times. Reviewed by Ralph Peterson Villains, Scoundrels and Rogues: Incredible True Tales of Mischief and Mayhem By Paul Martin Prometheus Books, $18.95, 295 pages Check this out! How often have we been scared witless by some movie villain— Hannibal Lector, Freddy Krueger, and the like? The old saying goes “truth is stranger than fiction.” But that doesn’t go far enough. Truth is more evil than any screenwriter can dream up, at least not without the help and inspiration of real villains. This fascinating little book is filled with well-researched and very well-written accounts of twenty-eight exceptionally nasty people. The inspiration for Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho was a quiet, Wisconsin farm boy whose crimes were so unspeakable the editors of a major Chicago newspaper published a statement saying they would be relieved when Ed Gein was out of the news. Or how about the lady who immigrated from Norway and had a nice family before she dispatched two husbands, seven of her own children, and at least thirty-one more—all in the name of money. Not all in this book are soaked in blood. Some are thieves of epic proportions, others con-men, spies, hedonists, and some simply fools, like the policeman who got drunk and left President Lincoln unprotected in the Ford Theatre. Author Paul Martin doesn’t know the meaning of the word boring. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck The War That Ended Peace: The Road to 1914 By Margaret MacMillan Random House, $35.00, 784 pages Check this out! If you read only one book about World War I, this should be it, although it doesn’t actually cover the War itself. Rather, it explores the countries, causes, and, most of
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 4
all, personalities that led to the war. It is a wonderful history, excellently written and a story excellently told. Author Margaret MacMillan thoroughly delves into the players involved, starting about twenty years previous. She gives the reader a view of what conditions were like in Europe, country by country. The reader comes to know the leaders and advisors whose intense personalities influenced and ricocheted off each other, reinforcing distrusts and prior biases. Past political entanglements are examined, along with their repercussions for the web of alliances that led to world-wide conflict; the incongruity of some of the alliances are also explained. War never ‘makes sense’, least of all this particularly horrendous and inane one, which for the (admittedly tragic) death of a minor ruler led to the slaughter of millions. But in The War That Ended Peace, finally the causes are at least understandable – but perhaps, as one sees how things could have been otherwise, more tragic for that after all. Reviewed by Gretchen Wagner World War I Companion By Mathias Strohn Osprey Publishing, $27.95, 272 pages Check this out! One hundred years ago, the war to end all wars began. This war was different from any earlier war, not only in its scope, but in the advancements in technology that gave the military such tools as modern artillery, tanks, and airplanes for the first time. This changed the face of war in wide-ranging and terrible ways. Editor Matthias Strohn gathered essays by thirteen military leaders and historians, each of which takes an in-depth look at a particular segment of the war. The editor brought true experts to write on these topics. For instance, Dr. James S. Corum, who writes on World War I Aviation, taught at the US Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies at Maxwell Air Force Base as well as the US Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth and has written several books and contributed to many more on military history. The Imperial Russian Army and the Eastern Front is covered by Dr. Stephen Walsh, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of War Studies at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. These many experts bring a fresh perspective to the great body of work on this subject. A must read for history buffs. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
Book Reviews The Dark Box: A Secret History of Confession By John Cornwell Basic Books, $27.99, 320 pages Check this out! There is no greater threat to Catholicism’s hold on the minds and hearts of the faithful than the ongoing scandals involving priests and the children they’ve taken advantage of. Church attendance is down, parishes are closing, and reports by the thousands are pouring into news outlets and police logs. And while many within the church are to blame -- both the abusers and their protectors -- John Cornwell has another huge name to add to the list: Pope Pius X. The Dark Box is Cornwell’s in-depth examination of the history of confession and the confessional box, explaining how the concept of confession, as well as Pius X’s lowering of the age of confession from four-
History & Current Events teen to seven, had serious and dire consequences for the church in general and children in particular. It’s a theory with plenty of weight behind it, as Cornwell delves into history, psychology, and theology to explore not only how confession offered new opportunities for abuse, but how the abusers themselves rationalized their heinous actions. Unflinching in its depiction of the selfishness and depravity involved, this book can be difficult to read at times, but it’s important and immensely worthwhile, one more valuable piece in a monstrous puzzle. Reviewed by Glenn Dallas The Brothers: John Foster Dulles, Allen Dulles and Their Secret World War By Stephen Kinzer Times Books, $30.00, 416 pages Check this out! In The Brothers, Stephen Kinzer focused on the scope of power and influence wielded by the Dulles brothers, Allen (CIA Director) and Foster (Secretary of State), in Washington and abroad during the early period of the Cold War. Their impressive foreign affairs pedigree (grandfather and uncle both served as Secretary of State) allowed them unprecedented access and opportunity to construct (and eventually deconstruct)
A me r ic a’s standing in the global communit y. Although the Dulleses had convinced pol it icians and the public that their allegiance was to their country, Kinzer argued that the brothers, who were high-powered attorneys, “sought nothing less than to shape the affairs of all the world for the benefit and well-being of the select, their clients.” How Eisenhower missed it but Truman didn’t could be the topic of Kinzer’s next book. The book was well-written and thoroughly researched, although the pace of The Brothers, at times, was slowed with Kinzer giving away the story before the event actually occurred. Overall, it was a good read that should be on the bookshelf of anyone interested in America’s past and future foreign affairs. Reviewed by Adam Henig
Glorious Misadventures: Nikolai Rezanov and the Dream of a Russian America By Owen Matthews Bloomsbury USA, $28.00, 400 pages Check this out! Glorious Misadventures is a biography of Nikolai Rezanov. He was born into a changing world as Russia was striving to move into the main current of European culture. The coin to finance this was furs, rich dense sea otter furs from far eastern Siberia. Resanov was drawn to the idea of making the Pacific coast of present Alaska, Washington, and California a Russian province and spent his life trying to bring this to pass. He married the daughter of a robber baron of Siberia, which gave him backing and access to the Pacific. He became a secretary to the last of Catherine See Misadventures, cont’d on page 9
the tulsa councIl for holocaust educaTIon presenTs
2014 InterfaIth holocaust commemoratIon fIlm shoWInG
Thursday, May 1 • 7 p.M. • TeMple Israel, 2004 e. 22nd place featurInG
Dr. Nadine Blumer will address the topic “Forgotten Holocaust Victims: How Germany Remembers the Roma.” Dr. Blumer recently finished a fellowship at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Of the 11 million people who died in the Holocaust, 5 million were not Jewish. In fact, the first group to be targeted for extermination by the Nazis was not the Jews, but disabled German children. Other groups singled out for extermination were Gypsies (Roma and Sinti); Polish and other Slavic peoples; homosexuals; “asocials” (alcoholics, the homeless, criminals); persons of African or Asian descent; and those considered ideologically dangerous, including prisoners of war, communists, trade unionists, Jehovah’s Witnesses, resisters, intellectuals, artists and Catholic priests. Nazis classified these different groups in concentration camps using colored triangles on their prisoner uniforms. Tulsa City-County Library will have a mobile library at the commemoration. Please bring your library card to check out books and other library resources.
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 5
“Paragraph 175” A documentary about the homosexual survivors of Nazi persecution Sunday, April 27 • 2 p.m. Circle Cinema, 10 S. Lewis Admission price: $7 (free for Holocaust teachers) The Holocaust Commemoration is sponsored by the Tulsa Council for Holocaust Education, a committee of the Jewish Federation of Tulsa, in partnership with the Tulsa City-County Library and Circle Cinema. For more information, call the Jewish Federation of Tulsa at 918-495-1100.
Book Reviews Category
Fiction SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
One Tiny Lie By K.A. Tucker Atria, $15.00, 336 pages Check this out!
One Tiny Lie, the companion novel to Ten Tiny Breaths, follows Livie as she makes her way to New Jersey for her freshman year at Princeton. It is there that she meets her hard partying roommate Reagan, and at her very first college party she meets the captain of the rowing team, Ashton. Ashton is all sorts of wrong for Livie; from the stream of women going in and out of his bedroom to the black out drinking episodes ending with tattoos on a dare, Ashton is trouble. But when Livie begins to date Connor, Ashton’s best friend, roommate, and rowing teammate, Livie finds that there may be more to the broken Ashton after all; if she could just find out what secrets he is burying so deeply. One Tiny Lie is a five star read from cover to cover. While I have not had the opportunity to read the first book in the series, I found that it did not detract at all from my enjoyment of this book, I felt the author gave plenty of background information while not being redundant for those that may have already read it. One of my favorites of the year thus far! Reviewed by Christina Mock The Mole: The Cold War Memoir of Winston Bates By Peter Warner Thomas Dunne Books, $26.99, 368 pages Check this out! This fictional memoir of Winston Bates details his life working as a staff member for Senator Richard Russell, and Bates’ dabbling with the government’s Armed Services as a planted Canadian mole. Bates rises up the Defense Department ladder pretty fluidly
thanks to his photographic memor y, which leaves a strong first impression, and his social skills to network with key government players. When first recruited in France, he gets set up to move to Washington D.C to collect U.S intelligence information for Canada and he spends a lot of his time wondering when he will be contacted and by whom. It was fun to read about how Bates navigated his way through Washington, collecting intelligence information, and how that mixed with his social calendar and the gossip of The Hill’s elite. It is a book that centers on political intrigue as much as it does political gossip. I really enjoyed how The Mole: The Cold War Memoir of Winston Bates: A Novel was written. Warner has written a well-researched fictional memoir that made sense contextually. It provided an entertaining look into the flow of government information as Bates dealt with some of the most defining moments of American history, covering everything from the U-2 spy planes over Russia and the Bay of Pigs invasion in Cuba, to Vietnam and Watergate. This would be a nice read for those interested in this period of the U.S Government. Reviewed by Lenna Stites The Exiles Return: A Novel By Elisabeth de Waal, Edmund de Waal Picador, $26.00, 336 pages Check this out! Within the foreword by Edmund de Waal, author of The Hare With Amber Eyes and grandson of the author, is a brief recapitulation of the de Waal family history and their forced exodus from Vienna due to the Nazi takeover leading to WWII. This unpublished novel was found among his grandmother’s papers in 2005. The story itself evokes the mood and aura of post-war
Vienna, both city and residents trying to recover from the past devastation. Having survived as a refugee, Elizabeth de Waal’s has keen insight into the mentality of the people and time, and her awareness of human foibles, is reflected in the story’s characters. Exiles returning to the postwar city find the Nazi arrogance pervasive, subdued, but still prevailing. While poverty is rife, social class titles command admiration, and money translates to power. Among the scheming for wealth, innocence is destroyed. The germ of evil still festers within the city, which once was admired for its allure, charm, honor, arts and overall vivacity. The portrayal of the post-war resurrection of Vienna is depicted through the encounters of the returnees with the natives. While the personalities of the characters are roughly sketched and appear somewhat two dimensional, the mood of the tortured city and the scars of the wreckage, physically and socially, vividly touch the heart. Reviewed by Aron Row House of Glass By Sophie Littlefield Harlequin MIRA, $14.95, 400 pages Check this out! Jen Glass has worked hard her entire life to rise above her beg i nn i ngs. And now, much as she doesn’t want to admit it, her family is crumbling around her. Her husband seems to be keeping secrets, her teenage daughter is rebellious and angry, and her young son struggles with selective mutism. Then one night, two men force their way into her home and hold the family hostage, seemingly after their money and valuables. But then things start to go wrong, and Jen and her family must come together if they are going to survive this ordeal. Jen and her husband find they are willing to risk almost anything to keep their children safe. This gripping novel will keep readers turning the pages in fascinated horror as the robbery of the Glass’ home spirals out of control. The characters are interesting and believable, their family problems relatable,
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 6
and it’s easy for readers to feel like they’re trapped in the basement alongside this family. There is an undercurrent of mystery as Jen tries to figure out the connection between the criminals and her family, which helps keep the story flowing. This is a great novel that will get readers thinking about the most important things in life. Reviewed by Holly Scudero City of Jasmine By Deanna Raybourn Harlequin MIRA, $14.95, 400 pages Check this out! It has been five years since Ev a n ge l i ne Starke lost her husband to the sinking of the Lusitania. Now she scrapes together a living as an aviatrix, flying her little aeroplane and entertaining the press with her exploits. During her current tour around the world with her Aunt Dove, Evie receives in the mail a photograph that rocks her world: a recent photograph of Gabriel, the husband she thought she had said goodbye to years ago. Unable to rest without knowing the truth, Evie follows the trail to Damascus, where she gets sucked into a mystery swirling around a historical relic. The truths she finds in the desert will alter the course of her life. Deanna Raybourn has never disappointed me, and City of Jasmine is no exception. This delightful historical novel has just the right blend of mystery, humor, romance, and drama, which will surely keep readers enthralled to the very last page. With a richly detailed setting and characters so real, so utterly believable, this one is hard to put down. Raybourn’s fans will appreciate the name-dropping of characters from her last novel, while readers new to her work will find themselves heading back to the store to pick up copies of her other books. A fantastic story to get lost in. Reviewed by Holly Scudero Songs for the Deaf: Stories By John Henry Fleming Burrow Press, $15.99, 176 pages Check this out! The Cloud Reader finds answers in the clouds. But, when a thick blanket of fog rolls into town, will he be able to answer a father’s questions about the fate of his young daughter? If you can just keep driving, could you escape the pain of a tragic event in your past? Maybe, but if you see a young girl floating on the side of the road, without touching the ground, you might want to stop. When
Book Reviews a boy’s voice is so beautiful it can make everyone stop what they’re doing to listen, does it have the power to make a deaf girl hear? These are a few of the eleven short stories in Songs for the Deaf that will take you on a journey of emotionally stimulating events. One story will have you climbing to the top of Mount Everest with a dysfunctional family, looking deep inside to find the strength to go on. Then another will have you watching a cop standing in the rain, firing his gun into a parked car, and leave you wondering if the wind would have made a difference. Reviewed by Jim Liston The Black Stiletto: Secrets & Lies By Raymond Benson Oceanview Publishing, $26.95, 336 pages Check this out! The Black Stiletto: Secrets & Lies sees us coming to the fourth of five episodes where the early 1960’s collide with m o d e r n times. At the early end of the timeline, we follow the exploits of Judy Cooper who literally walks the streets of NewYork as the “caped crusader” The Black Stiletto. In her more productive moments, she’s a crime fighter. Her problem is the NYPD has decided she’s a menace and plans to arrest her. When a police officer is almost killed while chasing her, she relocates to Los Angeles where she finds herself employed by a DA who wants to take on organized crime. In modern times, Judy Collins has become Judy Talbot. She’s nearing death and has severe symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Meanwhile, her son, Martin, and granddaughter, Gina, are having problems as the past slowly catches up to them. This is all great fun as the female of the species show the timorous Martin how to confront criminals and triumph. The historical side of 1961 is pleasingly detailed while the modern world proves the adage that elephants never forget. In this case, the Dixie mob has every reason to remember The Black Stiletto and want her dead. Reviewed by David Marshall
Fiction Justice for Sara By Erica Spindler St. Martin’s Press, $25.99, 352 pages Check this out! As a notorious curmudgeon of the male persuasion, I can only rarely be persuaded to read romance. I tend to find the relentless way in which the desig nated couple are manipulated until they can fall breathless into each other’s arms at the end of an exciting adventure rather tiresome. Yet here I come actually recommending Justice for Sara. “How can this be possible?” you ask. Well, it’s all down to the quality of the plot, the interesting narrative structure, the pleasing characterization, and the elegant simplicity of the prose (I don’t think I missed anything out there). In fact, no matter which feature of a book you base your assessment on, this has got it. So here comes Kat, something of a teenage hellion who’s accused and then acquitted of her sister’s murder. Ten years later, she’s provoked into returning to the small town in Louisiana to find out who really killed her sister. Almost immediately, she meets Luke, the good-looking son of the Chief of Police who ran the original investigation. From then on, it’s a tour of the town accusing all the likely suspects until she finally gets it right. No, really, it’s a wellexecuted plot. Read it and enjoy! Reviewed by David Marshall
Command Authority, the latest Jack Ryan novel explores consequences of past history, complexity of a son shadowed by the father’s legacy, and the value of human intelligence in hostile arenas. The writing is seamless and detailed with a thread of foreshadowing every time Jack senior is on the page. How will the threat of war and a President’s old friend tie into Junior’s financial analysis work for a civilian organization? A plan for survival after political upheaval, money trails, old enemies turned friends, technology balanced against skill and two Jack Ryans saving the world. The tension and curiosity keeps the reader turning pages. Reviewed by Vicki Hudson Where the Moon Isn’t By Nathan Filer St. Martin’s Press, $24.99, 320 pages Check this out! Nathan Filer has given the narrator of this novel a voice that is reminiscent of several other strong psychologically inflicted protagonists throughout modern literature. Where the Moon Isn’t is Matthew Homes’ story about the night that he lost his older brother Simon and how the truth behind what happened has affected him. Matthew re-tells the story as a patient of a psych ward jumping between past and present, and some sections of narrative are told to us
Command Authority (A Jack Ryan Novel) By Tom Clancy, Mark Greaney Putnam, $29.95, 752 pages Check this out! J a c k Ryan is the President of the United States. Jack junior is putting his skills as an intel guy to work in the world of finance and business, taking a break from the family legacy of saving the free world. President Jack has a Russian problem. Jack junior uncovers a money trail from corrupt business practices right back to the head of state of the current Russian Federation, so Junior has a Russian problem too. The father’s past and son’s future collide. Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 7
in the form of a story he is typing using the computer at the mental center, creating a sort of meta effect. Where the Moon Isn’t is well written and creative in the way it handles heavier topics such as the unfortunate loss of a beloved family member. I also appreciated Matthew’s selfawareness regarding his mental affliction, which we later learn is schizophrenia. There were some funny moments in the novel thanks to the quirks of the narrator and I liked that Matthew was able to keep a dry sense of humor. Everything that Filer mentions in this novel serves a purpose because of the importance it holds to Matthew, and the result is an endearing novel with a loveable narrator. Reviewed by Lenna Stites
eBooks Now Available! Tulsa City-County Library has thousands of eBooks, audiobooks and more that are available for free download and checkout to your Kindle®, iPad®, iPod®, NOOK™ and other mobile devices. Visit http://tulsalibrary.org/downloads to access the library’s digital catalog.
Book Reviews
Fiction
Perfect: A Novel By Rachel Joyce Random House, $25.00, 400 pages Check this out! The summer of 1972 ir revocably changes Byron Hemm i n g s ’s life, and he blames it all on an extra two seconds. The two seconds (added during a leap year to help time better correspond with the rotation of the Earth) seemed innocuous enough to Byron’s best friend James when mentioning them in idle conversation, but they terrify Byron. How can time be changed so easily? So when his watch stutters, Byron grabs his driving mother’s arm and causes her to hit a girl on a bicycle, an accident only he sees through the fog. Byron can’t contain the secret, and he and James concoct a plan that reveals a side of Byron’s mother he’s never seen. Byron soon learns how difficult it can be to be perfect. Reading Perfect is an emotional experience. Joyce’s exquisitely developed characters felt like real people to me. I agonized with Byron as he watched his perfect mother disappear. I commiserated with his mother as she navigated the difficult path between her husband’s expectations for her, her responsibilities as a parent, and her own desires. My heart broke with each character’s disappointments and failures. Joyce is a wordsmith; be prepared to live in her Perfect world. Reviewed by Tammy McCartney Death in Venice, California By Vinton Rafe McCabe The Permanent Press, $28.00, 192 pages Check this out! This novel, based on Thomas Mann’s classic Death in Venice, follows protagonist Jameson Frame as he moves himself from Manhattan to Venice, CA in hopes of finding something more. He is an established poet and is almost immediately consumed by the characters that Venice has to offer. The main object of his affection is the vibrant youth named Chase who Jameson finds himself inexplicably lusting after. Jameson’s two other close friends, Elsa and Vera, take him under their wing to show
him the Venice lifestyle including everything from beach outings, to plastic surgery, to lavish dinner gatherings. It is driven by the basic themes seen in Thomas Mann’s novel, but handled in an interesting way. Death in Venice, California includes an interesting cast of characters and author Vinton Rafe McCabe has written in a very distinct voice. The novel was not entirely what I expected and some sections bordered on being a bit disturbing to read while being intriguing all the way through to the end. Structurally, some of the sentences were hard to read at times but I really enjoyed reading about the Venice that McCabe created and how it was portrayed. It presented a romantic view of Venice that I had not previously attributed to the city. Reviewed by Lenna Stites Carried Away: A Selection of Stories (Everyman’s Library) By Alice Munro, with an introduction by Margaret Atwood Everyman’s Library, $26.00, 608 pages Check this out! This was my first introduction to Alice Munro’s writing and I could not have chosen a more comprehensive picture of the art of her short story writing. Her stories span a variety of topics and can be read in one sitting, or sporadically; different stories for different days. Munro’s empathy for her characters can be felt consistently with each story in this compilation. For example in the opening story “Royal Beatings”, which is one of my favorites from this book, the main character Rose explains the cyclical nature of a very specific aspect of her family dynamic. When Rose gets in trouble for insolence she says “[she] must play her part in this with the same grossness, the same exaggeration, that her father displays playing his” at which point she stumbles up to her room with a stubborn silence until she guiltily concedes to her stepmother’s peace offering of snacks and apologies. Not only does it show how Rose understands it as an act, it implies repetition. Other favorites of mine include “Friend of My Youth” and “The Albanian Virgin”. Munro’s writing allows the reader to connect with the logic and emotions of her main protagonists in each story. Carried Away is prefaced by an introduction by Margaret Atwood who gives a succinct but glowing analysis of Munro’s writing. Her short stories are memorable and this is a book that I can see myself revisiting again and again. Reviewed by Lenna Stites
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 8
OU-TULSA SEED SOWER LECTURE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2 6:30 to 8:00 P.M.
Perkins Auditorium OU-Tulsa Schusterman Learning Center 41st & Yale
NANCY PEARL Pleasures & Perils
of a Life of Reading
Featuring librarian, best-selling author, literary critic and public radio commentator Nancy Pearl
Nancy, who spent part of her career at the Tulsa City-County Library, will share the origins of her love of reading and libraries, and how the Book Lust books came to be written. Along the way, of course, she'll suggest some great books to read. A book signing will follow her presentation. SPONSORED BY OU School of Library and Information Studies OU-Tulsa Schusterman Library Tulsa City-County Library
2014
SEED SOWER LECTURE The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution.
TULSA FREE EVENT
TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT
please visit tulsa.ou.edu or call 918-660-3220
TulsaLibrary.org
918.549.READ
APRIL 2014
A FREE MONTHLY GUIDE TO YOUR COMMUNITY LIBRARY, ITS PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Celebrate
Children's Day/ Book Day Events are marked with this symbol.
adult/teen events BIXBY LIBRARY A-Book-A-Month Discussion Group Wednesday, April 23 • 2-3 p.m. Read "The Art of Racing in the Rain: A Novel" by Garth Stein and then join us for this lively discussion. For adults.
BROKEN ARROW LIBRARY Shrinky Dinks Tuesday, April 15 • 6-7 p.m. Make Shrinky Dink creations because everything's cuter when it's tiny! For teens. Extreme Science: Mosaic Math Saturday, April 26 • 2-3 p.m. Design and create a unique piece of mosaic art while exploring the connections between art and geometry. For ages 9-15. Registration is required. Call 918-5497500 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library. Our Cosmic Neighborhood ABCs: Deep Sky objects Monday, April 28 • 6:30-8 p.m. Join the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers for this awesome presentation. It's not just the planets and stars out there! For all ages.
L I B R A R Y CLOSINGS
Celebrate spring and Earth Day with these environmentally friendly events. Programs are marked with this symbol.
BROKEN ARROW LIBRARY/SOUTH Broken Arrow Great Decisions Wednesdays, April 2, 16, 30 12:30-2:30 p.m. • Are you interested in discussing current issues with other people in the community? If so, join us for a lively discussion on these issues: "Energy Independence" on April 2, "Food and Climate" on April 16 and "China's Foreign Policy" on April 30. For adults. Novels at Night Book Club Monday, April 14 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Read "The 500" by Matthew Quirk and then join us for this lively discussion. Limited copies of the book are available at the library. Call 918549-7662 to inquire. For adults. The Broken Arrow Extreme Science Series: Bubble-ology Wednesday, April 16 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Experiment with bubbles. All materials will be provided. For ages 9-15. Registration is required. Call 918-5497662 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library.
COLLINSVILLE LIBRARY All Thumbs Knitting Group Wednesdays, April 2, 16 • 1-3 p.m. All levels of knitting expertise are welcome to join us for this fun and instructional afternoon. For adults.
Tulsa City-County Library locations normally open on Sundays will be closed on Sunday, April 20 for Easter.
Job Lab Monday, April 7 • 10 a.m.-noon Update your résumé, search for jobs online or explore a new career in this special computer lab just for job seekers. You will have access to Microsoft Office software and the Internet. USB flash drives are available for purchasing, or you can bring your own to save your work. Standard printing charges apply. Library staff and resources will be in the lab to provide assistance. For adults. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7528 to register. Get Moving at Your Library Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 2:45-3:30 p.m. • Get your move on and stay healthy. Join us for dancing through Wii Just Dance 4. For teens. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collinsville Library. Comedy of Errors Book Group Tuesday, April 8 • noon-1 p.m. Read "Three Graves Full" by Jamie Mason and then join us for this lively discussion. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the library. For adults. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collinsville Library. Patchworkers Tuesday, April 8 • 6:30-8 p.m. If you want to learn to quilt or are an experienced quilter, join us for an informative and fun evening. For adults.
To search for events, scan this code using your mobile device and QR scanner app.
Sukikyo! Anime Club Wednesday, April 9 • 3-4:30 p.m. Join other anime/manga fans to discuss your favorite books, movies, characters and plot twists from this popular Japanese publishing trend. For teens. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collinsville Library. eBook and Audiobook Clinic Monday, April 14 • 10 a.m.-noon Bring your eReader, tablet or smartphone, and get assistance checking out and downloading eBooks and audiobooks from the library's collection. For adults. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7528 to register. Utime@yourlibrary Thursday, April 17 • 2:30-4:30 p.m. Join us for fun activities, gaming and crafts. For teens. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collinsville Library.
HARDESTY REGIONAL LIBRARY Hardesty Book Discussion Wednesday, April 2 • 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join us for a discussion of Craig Johnson's mystery "The Cold Dish," first in the Walt Longmire mystery series as featured in the A&E drama series "Longmire." For adults. Participants should read the book prior to the program. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Hardesty library.
a d u l t / t e e n (Hardesty Regional Library continued)
Minecraft Gaming Thursday, April 3 • 6-7:30 p.m. Location: Computer Lab Put your imagination to the test building your own world in the popular game Minecraft. For ages 10-18. Class is limited to 18 on a first-come, first-served basis. Simple Steps for Starting Your Business: Start-Up Basics Thursday, April 3 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. Location: Maple Room • Want to start a business? Get the help you need with SCORE experts. Learn the essentials of business start-ups, get action steps for your business and receive one-to-one mentoring. SCORE is a nonprofit association of volunteer business experts. Registration is required. Go to www.tulsa.score.org to register. For adults. Celebrate International Tabletop Day Saturday, April 5 • 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Location: Frossard Auditorium International TableTop Day is a celebration for all the fans of tabletop gaming. On this single day where the whole world is brought together in a common purpose of spending time together and having fun, we invite you to bring your own board/card games and enjoy getting to know fellow gamers. For ages 10 and older. Grant-Writing Crash Course Monday, April 7 • 12:30-4:30 p.m. Learn the basics for successful grant writing from prep to finish with expert C. Lyn Larson, HUD senior management analyst and trainer. This half-day workshop will cover how to prepare to write a grant and master the art of constructing a full proposal. For adults. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Go to http://svy.mk/1nkWZpz to register. Sponsored by the Nonprofit Resource Center, and the Tulsa Field Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Free Genealogy Websites Saturday, April 12 • 10-11:30 a.m. Location: Computer Lab • If you love doing genealogy research online but don't want to pay a bundle for good information, then join genealogy associate Liz Walker for this enlightening workshop on free genealogy websites. For adults. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Call 918-549-7691 to register. Anime/Manga Club for Teens Saturday, April 12 • 1-2:30 p.m. Location: Ash Room • If you love anime/ manga and can't stop talking about it, then join us as we learn some basic drawing techniques and have fun talking about our favorite characters.
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Be the Hero! Meet Matthew C. Winner, Co-author of "Teach Math With the Wii" Wednesday, April 16 • 4:30-6 p.m. Location: Connor's Cove Join Matthew C. Winner, author, library media specialist and White House "Champion of Change," as he explores how to engage students through the use of video games and game-based learning. Winner (aka "The Busy Librarian," http:// www.busylibrarian.com) is the coauthor of "Teach Math With the Wii," a professional resource aligned with the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics for educators interested in engaging learners through game-based instruction. Registration is required. Visit www. surveymonkey.com/s/BetheHero to register. Sponsored by Tulsa CityCounty Library, Tulsa Library Trust and Tulsa Regional Chamber. Latin Drumming With John Dellavedova Thursday, April 17 • 7-8 p.m. Location: Connor's Cove Join John Dellavedova for this wonderfully exciting performance featuring rhythm, drums and a Latin beat! For all ages. eBook and Audiobook Clinic Thursday, April 24 • 5:30-7 p.m. Location: first floor Wi-Fi Bar Bring your e-reader, tablet or smartphone and get assistance checking out and downloading eBooks or audiobooks from the library's digital collection. For adults. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7552 to register. Organic Gardening/Composting Workshop and Seed Swap Saturday, April 26 • 1:30-3 p.m. Location: Frossard Auditorium Learn the secrets to environmentally friendly gardening. Join OSU Extension Master Gardener Teri Holmes as she discusses organic gardening and M.E.T. Executive Director Michael Patton as he discusses composting. Bring extra seed packets to swap. One lucky attendee will win a compost bin donated by the M.E.T. For adults. Sponsored by the Library Green Team and Staff Association.
HELMERICH LIBRARY Preview Night: Friends of the Helmerich Library Annual Book Sale Thursday, April 17 • 5-8 p.m. This preview night is for Friends of the Helmerich Library members only. Membership may be obtained at the door for a $5 donation. The book sale features thousands of gently used books and media. For adults.
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LITERACY TUTORS NEEDED! Teach an adult how to read. Visit TulsaLibrary.org/literacy or call 918-549-7400 to sign up.
Friends of the Helmerich Library Annual Book Sale Friday, April 18 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, April 19 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The book sale features thousands of gently used books and media. Get quality and quantity at great prices while supporting the library! For all ages. tad@H: Wii Sports Marathon Mania Tuesday, April 22 • 4-5:30 p.m. Compete with other teens at this fun Wii Sports marathon. Snacks will be provided. Sponsored by Friends of Helmerich Library. Books People Are Talking About Wednesday, April 23 • 12:15-1:15 p.m. We will discuss the work of bestselling Chilean-American author Isabel Allende. Refreshments are provided. For adults.
HERMAN and KATE KAISER LIBRARY Game Day @ Your Library Saturday, April 5 • 11 a.m.-1 p.m. International TableTop Day is a celebration for all the fans of tabletop gaming. On this single day where the whole world is brought together in a common purpose of spending time together and having fun, we invite you to bring your own board/card games and enjoy getting to know fellow gamers. For ages 10 and older.
JENKS LIBRARY JTAG and Altered Books Tuesday, April 1 • 4-5 p.m. Join the Jenks Teen Advisory Group and help us plan library services for teens, plus make arts and crafts from old book pages. For ages 12-18. Jenks Library Book Discussion Group Thursday, April 17 • 1:30-2:30 p.m. Participants should read the selected
book prior to the program. Call 918-549-7570 for book title and more information. For adults.
JUDY Z. KISHNER LIBRARY DIY Cool Jewels Thursday, April 10 • 4-5 p.m. Make hex-nut bracelets. They're so cool! For teens.
LIBRARIUM International TableTop Day: Let's Play! Saturday, April 5 • 1-3 p.m. International TableTop Day is a celebration for all the fans of tabletop gaming. On this single day where the whole world is brought together in a common purpose of spending time together and having fun, we invite you to bring your own board/ card games and enjoy getting to know fellow gamers. For all ages. Moon Watch Thursday, April 10 • 6:30-7:15 p.m. Look at the full moon at dusk through an 8-inch telescope (weather permitting). See lunar craters and mountain ranges. See the moon as you've never seen it before! For all ages.
MARTIN REGIONAL LIBRARY Teen Time Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 4-5 p.m. • Location: Auditorium Join us for Wii and board games, snacks and fun. For ages 10-18. Celebrate International Tabletop Day Saturday, April 5 • 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Come and join fellow tabletop gaming fans. Games will be provided but you may bring your favorites to share as well. For all ages. Hearing loop available. Switch hearing aid to T-coil.
a d u l t / t e e n 2014 Russian Festival: From Russia With Love Saturday, April 5 • 2-4 p.m. The Winter Olympics were in Sochi, Russia, this year. Help us celebrate the Olympics and Russian culture. Enjoy Olympic crafts, a marionette show, scavenger hunt, cultural samples, Russian artifacts, a book giveaway and much more! This is a comeand-go event for the entire family to enjoy. For all ages. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust, Hispanic Resource Center and Tulsa Global Alliance. Minecraft Night Thursday, April 10 • 6-8 p.m. Location: Computer Lab Put your imagination to the test building your own world in the popular computer game Minecraft. Class size is limited. For ages 10-18. Manga Ai! Saturday, April 19 • 2-3 p.m. Location: Conference Room Munch on Pocky and meet up with other manga fans to discuss your favorite books and movies, characters and plot twists. For sixth-graders and up. Teen Advisory Board Meeting Saturday, April 19 • 3:15-4:15 p.m. Location: Conference Room Enjoy snacks, discuss programming, and help provide a teen perspective on the services and materials Martin Regional Library offers. New members welcome. For ages 12-18.
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Service, as she shows you how to involve young people to help them build a lifetime love for gardening and the outdoors. For all ages. Canning Is Cool! Monday, April 14 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ready to can those beautiful garden treats? Tracy Lane, family and consumer sciences educator, OSU Extension Service, will discuss the recommended canning practice and procedures for ultimate food safety. Plus, she will show canning equipment and talk about the process used for different type of foods. For adults and teens.
RUDISILL REGIONAL LIBRARY Stand Against Racism: 1921 Tulsa in Flames Friday, April 25 • 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Ancestral Hall Learn about Tulsa's 1921 Race Riot from eyewitness accounts. Alicia Latimer, African-American Resource Center coordinator, has gathered eyewitness statements of this historic tragedy from the book "Events of the Tulsa Disaster" by Mary Jones Paris. This program combines spoken word and a gallery of relevant photographs. For all ages. Sponsored by AfricanAmerican Resource Center and North Tulsa Historical Society in conjunction with the YWCA's Stand Against Racism.
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SCHUSTERMAN-BENSoN LIBRARY Mystery Readers Roundtable Thursday, April 3 • 2-3 p.m. Come for coffee and share what you've been reading with other mystery readers. For adults. Books Sandwiched In Monday, April 7 • 12:10-12:50 p.m. LoCATIoN: oklahoma Methodist Manor, Fleming Center, 4134 E. 31st St. Diane Seebass, former adjunct writing instructor, TCC, and associate fiction editor, Nimrod International Journal, will review "The Aviator's Wife" by Melanie Benjamin. For adults. Sponsored by Friends of the Tulsa City-County Libraries. Ballet Folklorico Tonatiuh Wednesday, April 30 • 6 p.m. Enjoy classical Mexican dances. For all ages.
SUBURBAN ACRES LIBRARY Spring Game Day @ Your Library Saturday, April 5 • 1-3 p.m. Join us for board and Wii games. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite games to play and share. For all ages.
Celebrate Día de los Niños With Actress and Storyteller Aneatra Hawkins Tuesday, April 22 • 10:15-11 a.m. Aneatra Hawkins will bring stories and tales to vivid life. For ages 12-18.
ZARROW REGIONAL LIBRARY Beginning Osage Language Class Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23 6-7 p.m. • Join the Osage Nation Language Department for this class. For all ages. Sponsored by American Indian Resource Center. Celebrate International TableTop Day Saturday, April 5 • 2-4 p.m. Celebrate this fun day by joining others to play some of your favorite board games. For ages 10 and older. Homestuck Club Thursday, April 10 • 6-7:30 p.m. If you're a fan of "Homestuck" or interested in learning more about this Web comic/Flash animation/ video game hybrid, join us for our first meeting. Someone may even attempt to answer the question: "What *is* Homestuck?" For teens. Minecraft Night Thursday, April 24 • 6-8 p.m. Location: Computer Lab Put your imagination to the test building your own world in the popular computer game Minecraft. For ages 12-18.
PRATT LIBRARY Backyard Poultry Saturday, April 5 • 1-2 p.m. Have you ever wanted to raise poultry in your backyard but didn't know where to start? If so, join Bruce Peverley, ag educator, OSU Extension Service, to learn about management practices, feeding, ordinances, housing and breeds. For adults and teens. Canning Is Cool! Saturday, April 5 • 2:30-3:30 p.m. Gardening time is here and so is canning season. Charlotte Richert, director, OSU Extension Service, will discuss the recommended canning practice and procedures for ultimate food safety. Plus, she will show canning equipment and talk about the process used for different type of foods. For adults and teens. Gardening With Young People Monday, April 7 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Get your spring garden ready to go with the proper planning, preparation and plants. Join Kenda Woodburn, horticulture educator, OSU Extension
TULSA CITY-CoUNTY LIBRARY EVENT GUIDE
APRIL 2014
c o m p u t e r
computer classes HARDESTY REGIONAL LIBRARY LOCATION: COMPUTER LAB Classes are limited to 18 on a first-come, first served basis.
MS Excel 1 Tuesday, April 1 • 6-8 p.m. Learn how to create formulas, use automatic fill and change basic formatting. You should take MS Word 2 and have some experience using a mouse prior to taking this class. MS Excel 2 Tuesday, April 8 • 6-8 p.m. Learn how to create and edit formulas, and apply functions and advanced formatting to your spreadsheets and workbooks. You should take MS Excel 1 prior to taking this class. Really Basic PC Class Thursday, April 10 • 9:30-11 a.m. This class is designed for new PC users who have little or no experience using Windows, a mouse, or the Internet, and little knowledge of basic computer terms. MS Excel 3 Tuesday, April 15 • 6-8 p.m. Learn how to create charts, apply conditional formatting and control the appearance of printed spreadsheets. You should take MS Excel 2 prior to taking this class. Premium Content @ the Library Saturday, April 19 • 10-11 a.m. Take a whirlwind tour of the premium content websites available for free to you as a library cardholder. Premium content refers to websites that charge consumers for access. Tulsa City-County Library subscribes to more than 100 premium content databases. Find directory information (residential and company), full-text magazine and newspaper articles, legal forms, maps, health information, auto repair manuals and much more! MS PowerPoint 101 Tuesday, April 22 • 6-8 p.m. Learn how to create group presentations and slide shows. You should take MS Word 2 prior to taking this class.
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MARTIN REGIONAL LIBRARY
LOCATION: COMPUTER LAB Classes are limited to 12 on a first-come, first-served basis. MS Excel 1 Thursday, April 3 • 6-8 p.m. Learn how to create formulas, use automatic fill and change basic formatting. You should take MS Word 2 and have some experience using a mouse prior to taking this class. MS Word I Saturday, April 5 • 10 a.m.-noon Tuesday, April 15 • 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn how to use toolbars and menus, set margins, apply spell check, and preview, save and print documents. You should have some experience using a computer keyboard and mouse prior to taking this class. MS Word 2 Saturday, April 12 • 10 a.m.-noon Learn how to create and format tables, use bulleted and numbered lists, and apply and format columns in a document. You should take MS Word 1 prior to attending. Open Lab Thursday, April 17 • 6-8 p.m. If you are new to computers, drop by this come-and-go lab to receive one-to-one help in a selfpaced and relaxed environment. MS Word 3 Saturday, April 19 • 10 a.m.-noon Learn how to create and use borders and shading, headers and footers, page numbering and drawing tools. You should take MS Word 2 prior to taking this class. MS Word 4 Saturday, April 26 • 10 a.m.-noon Learn how to use mail merge, and tables to perform calculations and create onscreen forms. You should take MS Word 3 prior to taking this class. MS Publisher 101 Tuesday, April 29 • 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn how to create fun and colorful signs and fliers. You should take MS Word 2 prior to taking this class.
RUDISILL REGIONAL LIBRARY
LOCATION: COMPUTER LAB Registration is required. Classes are limited to 12 on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 918-549-7645 to register. Really Basic Computer Class Fridays, April 4, 11, 18 • 9:30-11 a.m. This class is designed for new computer
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users who have little or no previous experience using computers, Windows, a mouse or the Internet, and little or no knowledge of basic computer terms.
ZARROW REGIONAL LIBRARY
LOCATION: COMPUTER LAB Registration is required. Class sizes are limited. Call 918-549-7683 to register. Kindle Fire Clinic Wednesday, April 9 • 1:30-3 p.m. Learn how to browse, check out and download library eBooks using your Kindle Fire. Computers for Seniors Wednesdays, April 16, 23, 30; May 7 1:30-3:30 p.m. • Have you always wanted to learn to use a computer but were afraid to try? This series of four classes is designed especially for older folks who need a slowerpaced, encouraging atmosphere in which to learn new skills. Classes are: "Hardware Boot Camp," April 16; "Beginning Internet," April 23; "Fun With Files," April 30; and "Email 101," May 7. For ages 55+. Participants must register for the entire series.
children’s events Bixby Library My First Storytime Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 10:30-10:45 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 11-11:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 2-5. An adult must accompany 2-year-olds.
BROKEN ARROW LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-11 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 3-5.
My First Storytime Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24 Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Tierra Mestiza Saturday, April 5 • 2-2:45 p.m. Celebrate Day of the Child/ Dia de los niños with a dazzling and colorful dance performance by Tierra Mestiza. Children in attendance will receive a free book, while supplies last. For all ages. Seating is limited. Children given first priority. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust and Hispanic Resource Center. Wii Hang Out Tuesday, April 8 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Play Wii and board games to practice your social skills with older peers in a relaxed environment. For ages 7 and older. Registration is required. Register by email at ba@ tulsalibrary.org or call 918-549-7500. PAWS for Reading Wednesday, April 9 • 4-5 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Elementary, My Dear Book Club: Mystery Book Discussion for Kids Thursday, April 17 • 4-4:50 p.m. Read "Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective" by Donald J. Sobol and then join us for this fun discussion. For ages 5-12. Extreme Science: Mosaic Math Saturday, April 26 • 2-3 p.m. Design and create a unique piece of mosaic art while exploring the connections between art and geometry. For ages 9-15. Registration is required. Call 918-5497500 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library.
BROKEN ARROW LIBRARY/SOUTH Family Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 15, 22, 29 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Enjoy stories, action rhymes, fun flannels, music and bubbles, plus meet other parents/ caregivers and preschoolers in the neighborhood. For ages 2-5.
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CELEBRATE
NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK APRIL 13-19, 2014 Lives Change @ your library Lives change @ your library every day. Children, teens and adults turn to libraries to learn, grow and achieve their dreams. Tulsa City-County Library can help you and your family discover a new and exciting world through collections, digital resources and more. Whether you come for homework or job searches, help with citizenship issues or finances, adult education classes or to find the best books for young readers, the library can open the door to a new world and change your life for the better! Music and Movement Storytime Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Stretch! Jump! Sing! Read! Join us as we enjoy great books while we get out all our wiggles with fun group activities. For ages 2-5. My First Storytime Wednesdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30 10-10:20 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Toddler Time Wednesdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Share stories, songs and fun! For ages 2-4 and their caregivers. PAWS for Reading Thursday, April 10 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 7-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7662 to register. Stay and Play Wednesday, April 16 • 11-11:30 a.m. For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! After our regularly scheduled storytime, join us for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For newborns to 4-year-olds and their caregivers. The Broken Arrow Extreme Science Series: Bubble-ology Wednesday, April 16 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Experiment with bubbles. All materials will be provided. For ages 9-15. Registration is required. Call 918-5497662 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library.
Plant and Grow! Tuesday, April 22 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • 4-6 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day at this come-and-go event. Plant some seeds to take home to beautify your yard, porch or give away as a gift. For all ages. Sponsored by the Library Green Team and Staff Association. Family Storytime: Let’s Explore Russia! Tuesday, April 22 • 10:30-10:50 a.m. Enjoy fun-filled stories, songs and bubbles while learning about the Russian culture and language. For ages 2-5. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust and Hispanic Resource Center.
BROOKSIDE LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:15-10:45 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 2-5. My First Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 11 a.m.-11:20 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers.
PAWS for Reading Monday, April 7 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Class size is limited.
COLLINSVILLE LIBRARY Stories From the Rocking Chair Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10:30-11 a.m. • Enjoy stories, songs, crafts and more. For newborns to 4-year-olds and their caregivers. PAWS for Reading Wednesday, April 16 • 3-4 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust.
GLENPOOL LIBRARY Ms. Tatiana's Family Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-11 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 5 and younger and their caregivers.
CHARLES PAGE LIBRARY
HARDESTY REGIONAL LIBRARY
Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10:30-11:15 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For newborns to 5-year-olds and their caregivers.
My First Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10-10:20 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers.
Toddler Time Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 11-11:20 a.m. Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 10-10:20 a.m. Join us for stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-3 and their caregivers. Storytime With Ms. Kristie Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 11-11:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 3-5 and their families. Sensory Storytime Friday, April 4 • 10:30-11 a.m. Location: Maple Room Does your child have difficulty sitting through storytime? If so, this inclusive, interactive program of stories, songs and activities may be just what you are looking for! Sensory Storytime focuses on learning with all five senses and is especially designed for children with a variety of learning styles or sensory integration challenges. Registration is required. Register online at http://kids.tulsalibrary.org/ sensorystorytime or by calling 918-5497550. For ages 1-7 and their caregivers. Celebrate International Tabletop Day Saturday, April 5 • 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Location: Frossard Auditorium International TableTop Day is a celebration for all the fans of tabletop gaming. On this single day where the whole world is brought together in a common purpose of spending time together and having fun, we invite you to bring your own board/card games and enjoy getting to know fellow gamers. For ages 10 and older. Mr. Paul's Preschool Storytime Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 11-11:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 4-5. Ms. Karen's Marvelous Monday Stories Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 6:30-7 p.m. • Join Ms. Karen for stories and other fun activities. For grades K-3. Preschoolers are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Latin Drumming With John Dellavedova Thursday, April 17 • 7-8 p.m. Location: Connor's Cove Join John Dellavedova for this wonderfully exciting performance featuring rhythm, drums and a Latin beat! It's guaranteed to set your toes a-tapping! For all ages. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust and Hispanic Resource Center.
TULSA CITY-CoUNTY LIBRARY EVENT GUIDE
APRIL 2014
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HELMERICH LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Tuesday, April 1 • 10:30-10:50 a.m. The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 4-5.
HERMAN AND KATE KAISER LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-11:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 4-5.
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Stay and Play Storytime Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24 10:30-11:30 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For newborns to 4-year-olds and their caregivers.
PAWS for Reading Wednesdays, April 9, 23 • 3:30-5 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids in grades K-3 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust.
Game Day @ Your Library Saturday, April 5 • 11 a.m.-1 p.m. International TableTop Day is a celebration for all the fans of tabletop gaming. On this single day where the whole world is brought together in a common purpose of spending time together and having fun, we invite you to bring your own board/card games and enjoy getting to know fellow gamers. For ages 10 and older.
Children's Book Day: A Day to Celebrate! Wednesday, April 30 • 10:30-11:30 a.m. Celebrate children and books. Enjoy bilingual stories in Spanish and English, songs, rhymes and finger plays, and then stay after to make a special craft. For ages 2-5. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust and Hispanic Resource Center.
tulsa city-county library locations 25 Bixby Library 20 E. Breckenridge, 74008 • 918-549-7514 M, 10-8; T-Th, 12-8; Fri., 12-6; Sat., 10-5 19 Broken Arrow Library 300 W. Broadway, 74012 • 918-549-7500 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 23 Broken Arrow Library/South 3600 S. Chestnut, 74011 • 918-549-7662 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 17 Brookside Library 1207 E. 45th Place, 74105 • 918-549-7507 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 9 Central Library Closed for renovation 400 Civic Center, 74103 • 918-549-7323 8 Charles Page Library 551 E. Fourth St., Sand Springs, 74063 918-549-7521 • M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 2 Collinsville Library 1223 Main, 74021 • 918-549-7528 M-Th, 12-8; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5 24 Glenpool Library 730 E. 141st St., 74033 • 918-549-7535 M-Th, 12-8; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5 22 Hardesty Regional Library and Genealogy Center 8316 E. 93rd St., 74133 • 918-549-7550 M-Th, 9-9; Fri., 9-6; Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5 21 Helmerich Library 5131 E. 91st St., 74137 • 918-549-7631 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 18 Herman and Kate Kaiser Library 5202 S. Hudson Ave., Suite B, 74135 918-549-7542 • M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 20 Jenks Library 523 W. B St., 74037 • 918-549-7570 M-T, 12-8; W-Th, 10-6; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5 3 Judy Z. Kishner Library 10150 N. Cincinnati Ave. E., Sperry 74073 • 918-549-7577 M-T, 12-7; W, 10-5; Th, 12-7; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5
11 Kendall-Whittier Library 21 S. Lewis, 74104 • 918-549-7584 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 10 Librarium 1110 S. Denver Ave., 74119 • 918-549-7349 M-Th, 9-7; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 15 Martin Regional Library and Hispanic Resource Center 2601 S. Garnett Road, 74129 • 918-549-7590 M-Th, 9-9; Fri., 9-6; Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5 7 Maxwell Park Library 1313 N. Canton, 74115 • 918-549-7610 M-F, 10-6; Sat., 10-5 14 Nathan Hale Library 6038 E. 23rd St., 74114 • 918-549-7617 M, 10-8; T-Th, 10-6; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 4 Owasso Library 103 W. Broadway, 74055 • 918-549-7624 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 12 Pratt Library 3219 S. 113th W. Ave., Sand Springs, 74063 • 918-549-7638 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 6 Rudisill Regional Library and African-American Resource Center 1520 N. Hartford, 74106 • 918-549-7645 M-Th, 9-9; Fri.-Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5 13 Schusterman-Benson Library 3333 E. 32nd Place, 74135 918-549-7670 • M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 1 Skiatook Library 316 E. Rogers, 74070 • 918-549-7676 M, 12-8; T-Th, 10-6; Fri.-Sat., 11-5 5 Suburban Acres Library 4606 N. Garrison, 74126 • 918-549-7655 M-Th, 10-6; Fri.-Sat., 11-5 16 Zarrow Regional Library and American Indian Resource Center 2224 W. 51st St., 74107 • 918-549-7683 M-Th, 9-9; Fri.-Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5
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JENKS LIBRARY PAWS for Reading Tuesday, April 22 • 4-5 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids in grades K-3 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Call 918-549-7570 to register.
JUDY Z. KISHNER LIBRARY Terrific Tuesday: Showers and Flowers Tuesday, April 8 • 3-4 p.m. Don't let the rain keep you away! Join us as we celebrate the wonders of spring. For ages 5-10.
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KENDALL-WHITTIER LIBRARY Bilingual Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16 10-10:45 a.m. • Enjoy stories, songs and activities in English and Spanish. For ages 4-5.
LIBRARIUM Family Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 11-11:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers. International TableTop Day: Let's Play! Saturday, April 5 • 1-3 p.m. International TableTop Day is a celebration for all the fans of tabletop gaming. On this single day where the whole world is brought together in a common purpose of spending time together and having fun, we invite you to bring your own board/ card games and enjoy getting to know fellow gamers. For all ages. PAWS for Reading Saturday, April 12 • 1-2 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids in grades K-3 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Earth Day Craft: Make a Suncatcher! Saturday, April 12 • 2-3 p.m. Enjoy stories and games about being kind to the earth and make a stainedglass style earth to brighten your window. Wear green and you'll get a special treat! For ages 4-9. Sponsored by the Library Green Team. Family Storytime: Celebrate Earth Day! Tuesday, April 22 • 11-11:30 a.m. Enjoy stories and finger plays about the earth and then make a stained-glass style earth to brighten your window. Wear green and you'll get a special treat! For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers. Sponsored by the Library Green Team. Family Storytime: Celebrate the Day of the Child/Day of the Book Tuesday, April 29 • 11-11:30 a.m. We'll read Karen Beaumont's "I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!," sing songs and then paint like crazy! Every child gets a free book. Come and join the fun! For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers. Child-
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care groups, please call before attending. Seating is limited so we may refer you to another library. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust and Hispanic Resource Center.
MARTIN REGIONAL LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10-10:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 2-5. Bilingual Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 6:30-7 p.m. Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24 10-10:30 a.m. Enjoy stories, songs and activities in English and Spanish. Sponsored by the Hispanic Resource Center. For ages 2-5. Celebrate International Tabletop Day Saturday, April 5 • 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Come and join fellow tabletop gaming fans. Games will be provided but you may bring your favorites to share as well. For all ages. 2014 Russian Festival: From Russia With Love Saturday, April 5 • 2-4 p.m. The Winter Olympics were in Sochi, Russia, this year. Help us celebrate the Olympics and Russian culture. Enjoy Olympic crafts, a marionette show, scavenger hunt, cultural samples, Russian artifacts, a book giveaway and much more! This is a comeand-go event for the entire family to enjoy. For all ages. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust, Hispanic Resource Center and Tulsa Global Alliance. Fun Fun Music! Monday, April 7 • 10-11 a.m. Are you ready to sing, hop and jump to songs in Japanese and English? Join the Konnichiwa group for a fun-filled musical program. For ages 5 and younger. Book Buddies: Let's Be Green! Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 • 4-4:45 p.m. Join Ms. Michelle every week in April for a different green theme. Read great books and do a fun craft. Let's get ready for spring! For grades K-3. Spring Fest! Saturday, April 19 • noon-2 p.m. Enjoy this fun come-and-go event. Grow green things, recycle in a craft, draw with bright colors and read some great books! Let's get ready for spring! For grades K-6.
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Children's Day Storytime Thursday, April 24 • 10-10:45 a.m. Join us for special guest storyteller Aneatra to celebrate Día de los Niños/Children's Day! All children will take home a free book. For ages 2-5. Sponsored by Hispanic Resource Center.
PAWS for Reading Saturday, April 26 • 2-3 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids in grades K-3 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust.
Zumba @ the Library Saturday, April 26 • 1-1:45 p.m. Learn Zumba with instructor Carlos Bejarano. Zumba is an easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired fitness dance. This class is specifically for kids and is formatted in a way to make getting fit fun. For grades K-6. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust and Hispanic Resource Center.
OWASSO LIBRARY
MAXWELL PARK LIBRARY Storytime: Celebrate Earth Day Tuesday, April 22 • 3:30-4:15 p.m. Enjoy this special storytime and then watch a segment of the" Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!" For grades K-3. Sponsored by the Library Green Team.
NATHAN HALE LIBRARY Storytime With Miss Nha Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24 10:30-11 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers.
en español
My First Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 9:30-9:50 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10-10:30 a.m. • The best in children's literature, songs, games, finger plays, rhymes and other reading-related activities are shared with your preschooler. For ages 3-5. Stay and Play Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-11 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! After our regularly scheduled storytime, join us for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers.
Patrocinado por el Centro Hispano y el Fideicomiso de las Bibliotecas de Tulsa. Informes al 918-549-7597.
TulsaLibrary.org/hrc
programas infantiles BIBLIoTECA KENDALL-WHITTIER Cuentitos Bilingües Miércoles, 2, 9, 16 de abril 10-10:45 a.m. Cuentos, canciones y actividades en inglés y español. Para niños de 4 a 5 años.
Día de los Niños Jueves, 24 de abril • 10-10:45 a.m. ¡Venga a escuchar cuentos con nuestra invitada especial, Aneatra! Se regalara un libro a cada niño. Para niños de 2 a 5 años. Patrocinado por el Centro Hispano.
BIBLIOTECA REGIONAL MARTIN
BIBLIOTECA REGIONAL ZARROW
Cuentitos Bilingües Miércoles, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 de abril 6:30-7 p.m. Jueves, 3, 10, 17, 24 de abril 10-10:30 a.m. Disfruta cuentos, canciones, y actividades en inglés y español. Para niños de 2 a 5 años. Patrocinado por el Centro Hispano.
Día de los Niños/Cuentitos Bilingües Miércoles, 23 de abril 10:30-11:30 a.m. Cuentos, canciones y actividades en inglés y español. Para niños de 2 a 5 años. Patrocinado por el Centro Hispano.
TULSA CITY-CoUNTY LIBRARY EVENT GUIDE
APRIL 2014
Pick up a free copy of the
2014 Baby Guide at any Tulsa City-County Library. This comprehensive directory for new and expectant parents includes info about Tulsa City-County Library’s new Family Place Libraries.
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Homeschool Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 2-3 p.m. • Join us as we read stories and make a craft. For grades K-3. Sensory Storytime Friday, April 4 • 4-5 p.m. Does your child have difficulty sitting through storytime? If so, this inclusive, interactive program of stories, songs and activities may be just what you are looking for! Sensory Storytime focuses on learning with all five senses and is especially designed for children with a variety of learning styles or sensory integration challenges. Registration is required. Register online at http://kids.tulsalibrary.org/ sensorystorytime or by calling 918-5497624. For ages 2-5 and their caregivers. PAWS for Reading Thursday, April 10 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids in grades K-3 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. owasso Mother-Daughter Book Club Thursday, April 17 • 6-7 p.m. Girls ages 9-12 and their mothers are invited to join us to discuss a great read. Copies of the featured book are available at the library. Participants should read the selected book prior to the program. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7624 to register.
PRATT LIBRARY Going Green Thursday, April 3 • 10:30-11:30 a.m. Let's recycle paper! Children may bring paper, magazines, newspapers and cardboard to put in the recycling bin. Afterward, we will learn about other ways to recycle. For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers. Sponsored by the Library Green Team.
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Preschool Storytime Thursdays • 10:30-11:30 a.m. For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers. April 3 • Going Green April 10 • Easter Crafts Day April 17 • Easter Party (Bring goodies to share.) April 24 • Baby Animals
RUDISILL REGIONAL LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10-10:30 a.m. • For ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime: Celebrate Día Day Wednesday, April 30 • 10-11 a.m. Each child who attends will receive a free book. For ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Sponsored by Hispanic Resource Center.
SCHUSTERMANBENSON LIBRARY Stay and Play Storytime Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 6 and younger. My First Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10-10:20 a.m. • Learn and enjoy songs, stories and activities that are just right for your little one at this lapsit storytime. For newborns to 3-year-olds and their caregivers. Stay and Play Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-11:30 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For newborns to 3-year-olds and their caregivers.
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Bebop Recycling Monday, April 7 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Recycling has never been so cool! Reuse old items to make musical instruments and play along with our special guest bebop musician. For ages 5-12. PAWS for Reading Monday, April 14 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids in grades K-3 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Ballet Folklorico Tonatiuh Wednesday, April 30 • 6 p.m. Enjoy classical Mexican dances. For all ages.
SKIATOOK LIBRARY Preschool Storytime Thursdays • 11 a.m.-noon Join us for stories, rhymes, songs and a craft. For ages 5 and younger with their caregivers. April 3 • Baby Animals Day April 10 • Beautiful Bugs! April 17 • Dinosaur Day April 24 • Author Day, Leo Lionni Have You Heard? Thursday, April 10 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Discover the "mystery" book with activities, snacks and a craft. Plus, take home a great read. For grades K-3. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library.
SUBURBAN ACRES LIBRARY Spring Game Day @ Your Library Saturday, April 5 • 1-3 p.m. Join us for board and Wii games. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite games to play and share. For all ages. After-School Crafts Monday, April 7 • 4:45-5:30 p.m. Join Ms. Beverly for fun crafts! For grades K-3. Seating is limited. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust. The Tulsa City-County Library Event Guide is produced by the Public Relations Office of the Tulsa City-County Library. For questions or concerns, call 918-549-7389.
ZARROW REGIONAL LIBRARY Stay and Play Storytime Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Enjoy fun and imaginative stories and songs and then stay after for games and activities that foster important early literacy skills. For ages 5 and younger. Celebrate International TableTop Day Saturday, April 5 • 2-4 p.m. Celebrate this fun day by joining others to play some of your favorite board games. For ages 10 and older. Lego Build Saturday, April 19 • 3 p.m. Use your imagination and ingenuity to build your own Lego creation. Bring your own Legos or use ours. For ages 5-12. Stay and Play Storytime Wednesday, April 23 • 10:30-11:30 a.m. Celebrate Día de los niños! Enjoy stories, songs and activities in English and Spanish. Sponsored by the Hispanic Resource Center. For ages 5 and younger. PAWS for Reading Saturday, April 26 • 2-3 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-10 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Family Fun Night Tuesday, April 29 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join us for fun stories, songs and crafts. For ages 10 and younger and their families.
Free and Open to the Public If you are hearing-impaired and need a qualified interpreter, please call the library 48 hours in advance of the program. The Tulsa Book Review and Tulsa City-County Library Event Guide are printed on partially recycled paper.
Book Reviews Category
Cookbooks SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Fast Metabolism Diet Cookbook: Eat Even More Food and Lose Even More Weight By Haylie Pomroy Harmony Books, $26.00, 240 pages There are many popular diets these days. The Fast Met abol i sm Diet is one that is pretty popular at the moment, so there should be a lot of interest in a good cookbook for those using the plan. The book has a good introduction to the diet along with a guide and rules in the first chapter. This is followed by guides to portion sizes, food swaps, and freezing and crocking as well as FAQs and meal planning. Of course, recipes make up the bulk of the book. There are recipes for all meals, snacks, smoothies/beverages, dips and dressing, and desserts with the largest sections being for dinners and lunches. There is a nice section of four-color photos of the dishes. Some recipes are pretty nice, but some are so simplistic one must wonder why they are taking up space where more interesting, complex recipes could be. For instance, Hard-Boiled Egg Whites Stuffed with Minced Veggies is, well, hard-boiled eggs with discarded yolks and some minced veggies. That doesn’t need a whole page. The appendices are quite useful with a master food list, sample meal maps, blank meal maps, and more. Many will find this useful. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck The Kitchen Pantry Cookbook: Make Your Own Condiments and Essentials By Erin Coopey Quarry Books, $24.99, 176 pages Check this out! If you enjoy cooking time in your kitchen, making your own version of many common commercial items in your pantry and refrigerator will likely improve the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. Erin Coopey’s The Kitchen Pantry Cookbook is an excellent addition to your cookbook shelf, even if your collection is nearly overflowing. This
beaut if u l ly produced trade paperback is filled with useful recipes and information. Her preparations reduce salt and sugar and eliminate preservatives, additives and high-fructose corn syrup. She has an enormous collection in this cookbook: condiments of all sorts like mustards, ketchup, mayonnaises and many often-used sauces, seed and nut butters, curds, twenty salad dressings, stocks, relishes, chips and dips. Many are easy to prepare, but some are time-consuming (like Worcestershire sauce having nineteen ingredients). Most of the recipes are within easy reach of the average home cook who enjoys puttering in the kitchen and ingredients are mostly readily available. Layout is very good, keeping each recipe to its page, and instructions are clear. In addition Coopey includes numerous useful sidebars (How to make a garlic purée; food mill versus food processor; ketchup vs. catsup). The photo illustrations are excellent and so is the well cross referenced index. Reviewed by George Erdosh Betty Crocker 300 Calorie Comfort Food By Betty Crocker Betty Crocker, $19.99, 336 pages Check this out! For those on a diet, Betty Crocker’s 300 Calorie Comfort Food is a good choice. Since this cookbook is part of a wellknown set of cookbooks, good recipes, good recipe layout, and easy-to-follow instructions are virtually guaranteed. This book presents three hundred low-calorie recipes in the usual cookbook format, moving from breakfast through desserts and snacks in ten chap-
ters. The recipes are drawn from an international repertoire, each clearly labeled on top in a red circle with the calorie count per serving. The serving sizes are adequate for the average eater, and many recipes are single-dish items. Under the title, the text gives prep and start to finish times and number of servings, while below you’ll find good “kitchen tips,” “healthy smart ideas,” “quick meal ideas” and variations under “try this.” Under each recipe, there is complete per-serving nutritional information. The recipe layout is excellent. Some recipes are almost scratch cooking, but in many, the ingredients are store-bought, such as frozen chopped vegetables, frozen stir-fry veggies, or gravy mix. These will speed up kitchen work but add to the cost. The only illustrations included are two bound eight-page sets of photos. The index is thorough and well cross-referenced. Reviewed by George Erdosh
Circle, cont’d from cover to Orwell. The reader is left thinking about what price the future will cost and that George Orwell was really only off by about 30 years. Reviewed by Gary Shaffer, CEO, Tulsa City-County Library
Misadventures, cont’d from page 5 the Great’s favorites which gave him access to the royal court. He made several voyages, trying to establish permanent Russian towns in Japan, Hawaii, Alaska and California. His history is the history of the conquest, plunder and loss of the dream of an American Russia. The book has historical depth, detailing the culture and major persons of the time. Resanov is a product of his time culturally, and too much ahead of his time in his expansion of the Russian American Company. It is a fascinating book of Russian involvement in US settlement and history of our far west coast. I recommend it. Reviewed by Ralph Peterson
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Book Reviews Category
Teen Scene SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
BZRK: Reloaded By Michael Grant Egmont USA, $18.99, 432 pages Check this out! “Down in the meat” That’s where much, but not all, of the e xc itement occurs in this futuristic novel with an ambitious premise. BZRK are the good guys in this novel: a group of adolescents who control their nano-sized robot warriors against another group led by conjoined twins bent on controlling world leaders, and taking over the world. This is the second novel in the BZRK trilogy, and picks up only minutes later where the first left off. For that reason, it suffers from the middle book syndrome which so often plagues trilogies. First, readers who skipped the first novel will be at a disadvantage, since so much character and plot development has occurred elsewhere, and the author does not pay much attention to re-introducing characters or plot elements Second, much of the plot arc can be seen as connecting the first book to the concluding book. With that said, the characters are well developed, and the action and plot are well paced. Readers of both dystopian YA and science fiction and fantasy will find something to like here. Stay tuned for the final installment in 2014, and watch for rumors of a movie version of the series. Reviewed by Robert Robinson Stained By Cheryl Rainfield HMH Books for Young Readers, $16.99, 304 pages Check this out! Sarah has lived all her seventeen years with a rather large port-wine stain on her face. Now, when she is finally to begin treatments to erase it, her father’s business has been ruined by an embezzler. They don’t have the money for the treatments. She is devastated. She really believed she could be normal, that the bullying and meanness could be gone from her life. She can barely
get through the day, but after school faces the worst bullying incident she’s ever faced. Her best friend turns against her and joins the bullies. When Nick, a really amazing guy who is one of her few friends, offers to walk her home, she kind of blows him off. Brian, a handsome young guy who works for Sarah’s father, offers her a ride home. She refuses, but he drags her into his car and ties her up. Her life becomes hell and makes her earlier problems look like nothing. It will take all her strength and will to survive, and that may not be enough. Cheryl Rainfield has written a dark, edgy, realistic fiction that plumbs the depths of human evil and, at the same time, depicts what really defines heroes. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck Red By Alison Cherry Delacorte Press, $17.99, 320 pages Check this out! Imagine living in a place where anyone who doesn’t have red hair is disdained and treated as an outcast. Then imagine you are one of the most popular, most successful girls in high school in that place, largely because of your beautiful red hair, but there is a big secret. Felicity St. John is that girl living in Scarletville, and her secret is that her mother started dying Felicity’s not-red-enough hair when she was a toddler. Now she seems to have everything a girl could dream of – a great boyfriend, a good chance to win the Miss Scarlet pageant, prom coming up. Life is perfect, until Gabby, one of the brunette outcasts at school, starts a campaign of blackmail that
could bring her perfect existence to an awful end. Gabby’s demands seem designed to humiliate Felicity at every turn, but she has to tolerate it or be outed as a fake. Alison Cherry has written a compelling book that shines a light on the vicissitudes of high school life and how painful the time can be. It is hard to cheer for a protagonist who is living a lie, but the story is a page turner. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck Promise Me Something By Sara Kocek Albert Whitman Teen, $16.99, 320 pages Check this out! Reyna has just started high school, and she is stuck far away from her friends in a new school with new people. Desperate for a friend, she kind of stumbles into a friendship with Olive, an odd girl who has no qualms with speaking her mind about everything. As Reyna’s other friends drift away, she finds herself becoming closer with Olive... until she learns Olive’s secret and is no longer sure what to think. Reyna struggles to determine what really matters to her
in life before it’s too late to repair her friendship with Olive. Promise Me Something tackles a topic that is more and more on people’s minds these days: homosexuality, homophobia, and how “coming out” can affect relationships. Reyna is relatable because she is such a typical teenager, desperate for friends, desperate to fit in. Olive is an interesting character, the kind of person we all wish we could be, steadfast in her opinions and willing to risk alienating people through true honesty. Teenagers will be absorbed by this story, eagerly reading through to find out what happens to Reyna and Olive. Reviewed by Holly Scudero
Category
Tween Reads SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Sure Signs of Crazy By Karen Harrington Little, Brown YR, $17.00, 288 pages Check this out! Sarah Nelson has a problem. She is nearly done with sixth grade and is facing the beginning of seventh grade when the big project is a report on her family. All people have family secrets, but Sarah has a whopper. But on the last day of school, her English teacher gives her a gift. He gives composition books to every student and tells them to write letters over the summer, if not to a real person, then to a fictional character. Sarah needs someone to talk to, to help her figure things out, and decides to pour her heart out to Atticus Finch. How can she get past the fact that her mother tried to drown both Sarah and her twin brother? How can she live with the guilt of being the surviving twin? How can she make her father stop drinking and
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 10
moving every time their names bubble up into the news one more time? Karen Harrington has written a lovely, complex, very real story of a young girl becoming a woman in so many ways all at once. Told in first person, the voice is pitch perfect, and the story is absolutely compelling. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck New Kid By Tim Green HarperCollins, $16.99, 352 pages Check this out! Tom my Rust is up to bat and the game is on the line when his father taps him on the shoulder and tells Tommy it’s time to go. And they don’t just leave the game, they leave town, they leave the state. When his father tells him he is old enough See New Kid, cont’d on page 11
Book Reviews New Kid, cont’d from page 10 to choose his own name for the next stop, Tommy becomes Brock Nickerson, new kid in a new town. He never knows why this keeps happening; only that it does. But the one constant for Brock or Tommy or whoever he is, is baseball. The first day, Brock gets into a fight. The gym teacher, Coach Huggins, takes an interest in Brock and asks him to join his travel baseball team. The coach’s niece, Bella, is part of it as well, and a new, important friendship happens.
But Brock’s father makes it clear they might have to leave at a moment’s notice, perhaps the worst possible moment. For kids who like sports, it is always a treat when Tim Green has a new book out. This is no exception. The characters are welldrawn and believable, and the story is a real page turner because of the mystery. Get this one! Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
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Kids’ Books SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Walking With Dinosaurs, the 3D Movie: Friends Stick Together By Alexis Barad HarperCollins, $16.99, 32 pages Check this out! Long ago in the Arctic, some baby dinosaurs were born. They would grow to be large, plant-eating Pachy rhino suarus. Large plates on their heads are called frills. Mother watches over the nest of babies. The littlest one is Patchi. One day he wanders from the nest. A Troodon, a feather-covered dinosaur, grabs Patchi and runs off. But Patchi’s father, Bulldust, saves Patchi and scares the Troodon away. Patchi is hurt. He has a hole in his frill he notices when he sees his shadow and sees light shining through. The Troodon must have taken a bite of his frill! Patchi had a companion. An Alexornis named Alex was a bird that sits on Patchi’s frill and snacks on the insects that land there. One day, Patchi follows a butterfly into the woods and near a stream, he finds a young female Pachyrhinosaurus named Juniper. They become friends and have quite an adventure when they become separated from their herd when moving to the winter grounds. Young kids love dinosaurs and they will not be disappointed with this book. The reading is challenging enough to hold the interest of emerging readers, but the book is less a story than an introduction. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
The Code Busters Club, Case #3: The Mystery of the Pirate’s Treasure By Penny Warner Egmont USA, $16.99, 192 pages Check this out! W h e n there’s a puzzle to be unraveled or a code to be cracked, you can count on the crafty quar tet known as the Code Busters. Cody, Quinn, Luke, and M.E. are ready at a moment’s notice to put their code cracking skills to the test, and a field trip to Carmel Mission might be the perfect opportunity. There are some shifty characters about and rumors of a pirate’s treasure hidden nearby. Can the Code Busters make history and solve the riddle of de Bouchard’s gold? If you’re looking for a fun way to introduce coded puzzles to younger readers, you’d be hard pressed to find a book that employs as many different styles of coding as The Mystery of the Pirate’s Treasure. Warner has clearly done her research, employing everything from Morse code and semaphore to symbols, skip codes, Caesar ciphers, alphanumerics, and more. The story is a bit threadbare, but considering the brisk storytelling pace and the sheer number of puzzles included, it’s easy to forgive the author for providing just enough impetus to get the Code Busters (and the reader) from one puzzle to the next. After all, this is a book about friends solving puzzles, and the puzzles are dynamite. Reviewed by Glenn Dallas
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 11
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Book Reviews Category
Biography & Memoir SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
This Is How You Say Goodbye: A Daughter’s Memoir By Victoria Loustalot St. Martin’s Press, $24.99, 240 pages Check this out! Victoria Loustalot lost her father, who’d been living a double life, at the age of 11. Her bedridden and HIV-infected parent died at the age of 44. Three years before his death he offered her a trip around the world, with stops in Cambodia, Stockholm and Paris (places that had been important in his life). In this memoir she proceeds to visit Angor Wat, Stockholm and Paris as an adult in an attempt to find the man she never quite knew: “Everything I was seeing I imagined my father saw, too.� The book will appeal to those who have traveled to a new place and found it to be magical - “I was unprepared for how (the towers at Angor Wat) were going to make me feel.� What’s a bit strange is that the writer, who grew up in Sacramento, has little love for the place. She describes Sacramento winters as “wet and dark,� and states that her father “had no love� for the city. In the end, Loustalot may not have come closer to locating her mysterious father’s true character, but she does complete a fulfilling journey of self-discovery. This memoir may lead some readers to fashion a similar journey. Reviewed by Joseph Arellano Victorian Secrets: What a Corset Taught Me About the Past, the Present and Myself By Sarah A. Chrisman Skyhorse Publishing, $24.95, 264 pages Check this out! When Sarah Chrisman’s husband gave her a corset for her 29th birthday, she was completely taken aback. It was a present she never wanted; she had previously made it very clear that the one thing she wouldn’t tolerate was wearing a corset. She agreed to
try it on, with the expectation that she would never use it again. However, what Chrisman discovered was astonishing: rather than being a tool of oppression, her new corset actually made her feel more liberated. Using cold, hard facts (and illustrations), her book debunks many of the myths surrounding corsets and their wearers, and gives the reader a wonderfully detailed account of what Victorian era life was really like. In a world where everything now skews toward political correctness, Chrisman brings forth her own, distinct, opinionated view that I couldn’t help but admire. Her writing style is also a pleasure to read, as she obviously takes great pride in herself and all of her crafts. My only qualm is that occasionally, she criticizes people too much, which can make her sound petty. Despite this, Victorian Secrets is a book I didn’t want to put down, and the author’s messages – to do your own research, rather than blindly perpetuating falsehoods, and to accept true diversity, not just what is popular – are ideas we can all take to heart. Reviewed by Christie Spurlock Outrageous Fortune: Growing Up at Leeds Castle By Anthony Russell St. Martin’s Press, $26.99, 320 pages Check this out! A nt h o n y Russell was born in 1952 to wealthy parents, each with titles in their backgrounds. His paternal grandmother owned a small castle in Ireland; his maternal
grandmother owned Leeds Castle. It was at this sprawling and sumptuous estate he spent holidays and weekends growing up. Readers of his new memoir get to learn about the people who also spent a lot of time there, forming Lady Baillie’s social circle, and their typical routines: late starts to each day, lunches lubricated with plenty of alcohol, card-playing with “Granny B.� Russell and his two older brothers and younger sister lived only on the periphery, observing but never fully participating. Russell’s main theme: the “castle way,� the expectations and culture of this way of life, didn’t do him any favors when it came time for him to become an adult and make his own way in the “real� world. Luckily, he still had a trust fund and inheritances to stay well afloat. The book makes interesting reading, giving “normal people� a peek into a very different world. It contains a variety of anecdotes, but the best and most outrageous story by far was that of his father’s “virgin birth,� which made headlines in the 1920s. Just read it. Reviewed by Cathy Carmode Lim Not I: Memoirs of a German Childhood By Joachim C. Fest Other Press, $16.95, 464 pages Check this out! All too often we find ourselves blaming and shaming an entire culture for the
actions of a select few. These views are often instilled t h rou g hout our childhood from an outdated societal mentality. Here is a German man’s story of World War II, the Nazi regime, and suffering because of his family’s political opposition, consisting of a father who stood on strong moral ground and risked everything to hold onto his views and his family. His story plays out in a Schindler’s List sort of way, seeing the horrors of WWII daily and wanting to make and be the change the people needed. In this case, author Joachim C. Fest found this change in his youth during his stay at a boarding school and during his time as a trusted and valuable prisoner of war with an American regiment. This book is filled with the memories of a childhood born of literature, survival, and uncertainty from a German child’s experience. You get a deeper understanding See Not I, cont’d on page 13
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Book Reviews
very edge and beyond, bringing the reader along with him. It shows Cornwell doing what he does best, moving his characters around and pitting them against each other in magnificent battle scenes. No one Cornwell book is like the other, which is what makes him such a great writer. Reviewed by Alex Telander
Category
Historical Fiction SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Pagan Lord: A Novel (Saxon Tales) By Bernard Cornwell Harper, $27.99, 320 pages Check this out! Medieval historical fiction extraordinaire, Bernard Cornwell, is back with the next installment of the Saxon Tales. The Pagan Lord is the seventh in the series, with King Alfred gone and the land is on the eve of war between the Saxons ruled by Alfred’s son, Edward and Wessex, while in the north, the Danes led by the Viking Cnut Longsword looks to take more land. Our hero, Uhtred, has had his ups and downs in the series, but now wishes to bring together what men he can and take back his inheritance in the distant north land of
Bebbanburg, but he will have to fight his uncle and progeny to do that. The Christian faith is also growing in this place that will one day be called “Angelland,” and when Uhtred kills an important bishop, he finds those of the faith also warring against him. The Pagan Lord pushes Uhtred to the
A Burnable Book By Bruce Holsinger William Morrow, $25.99, 464 pages Check this out! Starting A Burnable Book with an indexed complete cast of characters immediately set this book apart from many other historical fiction works giving it a nostalgic antiquity feel as if stepping back into the Fourteenth century for a ride of your life. When an ancient book, telling of the future demise of King Richard II as well as the past twelve Kings, is found to be in the wrong hands, one man, a mere poet, will do everything he
can to change the fate of England and the death of a King. Brilliantly written; from page one I was immediately swept into the chaos of this prophecy shrouded with secrecy, murder, betrayal, and one’s own son. Author Bruce Holsinger molds characters bleeding with personality causing you to vehemently hate some, and deeply sympathize with others. The story vividly comes to life with a balance of world building, characters, and an intriguing storyline, while immediately bringing the likes of Philippa Gregory and Dan Brown to mind. If your reading preferences are in mystery or historical fiction, then this is a book you will undeniably want to pick up and add to your collection. Reviewed by Kim Heimbuch
Not I, cont’d from page 12 of how parents tried to maintain normalcy and a sense of being, while at the same time trying to figure out the art of survival and where their next meal would be coming from. This was a remarkable memoir I highly recommend. Reviewed by Kim Heimbuch
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Book Reviews Category
A key element in a wine’s “perfume” and taste is the terroir, or interaction of the local env i ron me nt , (soil, climate, etc.) with the vines. Thus, in northern Rhone, a 1972 Saint-Joseph blanc, tasted in 1985,
Popular Culture SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Women of Vision: National Geographic Photographers on Assignment By National Geographic, with a Foreword by Ann Curry National Geographic, $30.00, 224 pages Check this out! W hether you love great photos, wonderful artwork, or an e xcept iona l coffee table book, this National Geographic volume Women of Vision will astound you. The photos are simply awesome, every single one of them, something you would expect from such a publication. The works of seventeen women staff photographers on assignment are featured here and without exception all are artists, superb photographers and whose eyes see pictures invisible to others and record them through their photographic media. Everyone is different and unique in her style and interest: some prefer and excel in landscapes, others in people, and still others in recording controversial subjects (e.g. child marriages or polygamy). This book is a high-end production mostly with full-page or page-and-a-half size photographs, all in color and both technically and artistically superior. Every photographer is introduced by a short page-long description of her style, bio and quotes. In the typical style of their publications, each photo has a good, appropriate caption and a paragraph nearby describing the circumstances of that photo. These are brief and informative, without which the photo would not be complete. This volume will be the masterpiece of the most prestigious coffee tables and art book collections. Reviewed by George Erdosh Blessed by Less: Clearing Your Life of Clutter by Living Lightly By Susan V. Vogt Loyola Press, $13.95, 122 pages Check this out! Guided by the philosophy that we behave from the wellspring of our hearts, Vogt reaches beyond the superficial problem of too much stuff to the root problem - our core beliefs about material accumulation.
Rather than devising a system of organization for cleaning out closets and gradually filling them up again, a real framework is provided for changing mind patterns. Unlike most self-focused de-cluttering books, the focus is shifted from ME, and the reader is directed to look outward: how does a material-heavy lifestyle impact the environment? How does it impact or hamper our standards of generosity? What can be done to benefit others by changing the way we live? What can be done to increase justice, community, and better livelihoods for all? Turning our eyes from ourselves and focusing on others is what drives the core of this book, and the end result is that you DO gain positive life-changing benefits - but you bless your community and the world in the process. By constantly re-evaluating our assumptions and attitude, readers are forced to dig deeper into the heart of our Need for More, to find the real prize and keep our eye on it. “Long hours at work can steal time from our families, and for what? To get more stuff?” Somehow, she achieves all this without ever waxing preachy, making for a refreshing and inspiring read. Reviewed by Andrea Huehnerhoff Adventures on the Wine Route: A Wine Buyer’s Tour of France By Kermit Lynch Farrar, Straus & Giroux, $28.00, 288 pages Check this out! Kermit Lynch, a wine merchant since 1972, raises pairing of good wine and good food to a poetic experience. The title’s wine route takes a reader through ten regions of France, highlighting the small artisan wineries he favors in his own imports. One can almost taste each wine, as Lynch samples vintages and discusses vintners’ processes. He argues against overdosing wine with sulfates or artificially increasing alcohol strength with sugar. Both can dull or overshadow a wine’s distinctive flavor.
“had a quince-like aroma, a chalky edge on the palate, and a fleeting suggestion of apricot skin in the aftertaste.” In southern Rhone, a Grenache’s aroma was reminiscent of cherry, plum, and apricot. In Loire, one vintner could identify a 1906 bottle’s origin due to its aftertaste of wild plum and suggestion of hawthorne blossom. Other factors that affect a wine’s “finesse” are grape varieties; type of storage vats, time of bottling, aging—Lynch’s book is a cornucopia of information delightfully served. Reviewed by Elizabeth Varadan
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Romance SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Scandal in Kissing an Heir: At the Kingsborough Ball By Sophie Barnes Avon, $7.99, 384 pages Check this out! Shootings, stabbings, stalkers and scandal livened up the plot in Sophie Barnes’ latest Kingsborough Ball installment. When Rebecca borrows a dress from a friend and slips into the Kingsborough Ball in secret, she plans to find a marriage-worthy man. Instead, she catches the eye of Daniel Neville, a notorious rake. Rebecca wants to be able to choose her husband, but her aunt and uncle want her to marry a man 50 years her senior for financial gain. Daniel’s uncle threatens to cut him off if he doesn’t reform and marry a proper lady. Daniel whisks Rebecca away from her soon-to-be fiancé, and the pair elopes. The rest of the book depicts the newlyweds’ struggle to get to know one another and earn their place back into society after the scandal of their elopement. The Scandal in Kissing an Heir was fastpaced and had much more going on plotwise than its predecessor, The Trouble with Being a Duke. Daniel and Rebecca struggle with their finances, while a sinister antagonist stabs Daniel and leaves him for dead in an alley. The mystery, combined with the romance, makes for a varied, well-rounded and exciting read. Reviewed by Caryn Rupert
Tulsa Book Review • April 2014 • 14
Hard As You Can: A Hard Ink Novel By Laura Kaye Avon, $5.99, 384 pages Hard As You Can, the second book in the “Hard Ink” series, picks up right where the first book leaves off. The team is in search of answers of the mystery surrounding Merritt’s involvement in the ambush in Afghanistan, and why career criminals are now pursuing his children, Becca and Charlie. In this volume, we learn more about Shane as he attempts to get closer to Crystal, a waitress at the strip club Confessions. Not only does he want to get closer in order to get information she might have about the Church organization, but he believes she is in danger as well, and he begins to have romantic feelings toward her. The timeline between this book and the last is really only a couple of days so the action is fast paced, but at no time do you ever feel yourself getting left behind. Ms. Kaye certainly does not disappoint in this second installment! Hard As You Can is another five star read. The characters Ms. Kaye has created are wonderfully broken and the drama is gritty, but the burgeoning romance and the tight-knitted relationship of the team leaves you with a sense of redemption. A must read series! Reviewed by Christina McPherson-Mock
Book Reviews Category
Spirituality & Religion SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Always Look on the Bright Side: Celebrating Each Day to the Fullest By Allen Klein (editor) Viva Editions, $15.95, 188 pages Check this out! Looking for inspiration to get your day started? Having a bad day at work? Reading a page or two of this gem will have you singing a new tune. With over 500 quotations this pocket-size book is sure to brighten anyone’s day or special occasion. Especially nice is its range of uplifting and
sometimes humorous quotes for occasions such as graduation and traditional holidays or just an ordinary day. Also included are quotations celebrating special people in our lives like children and grandparents. Even the four seasons are celebrated – those who experienced the arctic blast may have found consolation in the mix of quotations offered in celebration of winter. Concluding with quotations celebrating self is perhaps a reminder and permission to also, in the midst of celebrating others, celebrate yourself. This is a gift you will want to share with family, friends, and even colleagues. With thoughtfully selected quotations from people wellknown and lesser known – from Aristotle to Longfellow to Raquel Welch – Always Look on the Bright Side leaves readers feeling inspired and optimistic about each new day. Reviewed by Africa Hands
tos illustrate as she treats patients. In addition, a professional yogi, through photos, demonstrates a number of poses that also help overcome pain and injury. The author describes numerous case histories and the successful healing of these patients. This is a useful reference book for those who prefer mostly natural treatments. Reviewed by George Erdosh Freedom From Your Inner Critic: A SelfTherapy Approach By Jay Earley, Bonnie Weiss Sounds True, $16.95, 240 pages Check this out! Does this sound familiar? You are trying to go along with your life, make progress, be creative and successful, and there it is. That voice of judgment and criticism, maybe even shame. No matter what the voice says it stings and it can make progress seemingly
inaccessible. It is debilitating, even in the smallest doses. At one or more times in our lives we have come face to face with this lethal burden. How does one combat this? Dr. Jay Earley states, “We can’t silence the Inner Critic by fighting it or giving in to its demands. But there is a way to transform it in to an invaluable ally.” Through carefully crafted strategies Freedom From Your Inner Critic delivers an in-depth self-therapy approach. Both Earley (transformational therapist) and Bonnie Weiss (psychotherapist) lead the reader through Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy, “a groundbreaking approach that makes constructive inner dialogue possible”. Discussion and guidance through easy to understand description and examples enables the reader to follow along as if in a session. Starting at the root of the issue “Getting to Know Your Inner Critic” and stemming into transformation and “Awakening Your Inner Champion” the reader will have comprehensive knowledge and be better equipped to move forward in success. Reviewed by Sky Sanchez-Fischer
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Healing Pain and Injury By Maud Nerman Bay Tree Publishing, $24.95, 346 pages Check this out! This wellorganized, wel l-w r itten book in easyto-read style will be useful for many of us healing from an injury or being in pain whether occasional or chronic. Author Maud Nerman is an osteo-
pathic physician who treated thousands of patients and wrote Healing Pain and Injury. Through five parts and many smaller chapters within, she covers everything about pain and injury—their causes, their symptoms and effects on the body, and how to treat the different types for full recovery. She insists on natural healing as much as possible, with little or no medications but with such help as homeopathy offers and relying mostly on natural diet. Much of the treatments are through her osteopathic manipulations, but in the last section she describes how you should help your own selfhealing. The book is filled with cute, simple sketches that help to explain the points she discusses. Many small black-and-white pho-
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