Tuesday, October 20, 2009

New Arrivals

ADULT FICTION

"Generations of Winter" by Vassily Aksyonov - "The story of a Russian family struggling to survive the convulsions of the Stalin era....(a) triumphantly moving novel by one of the most acclaimed writers of the Soviet diaspora. Overflowing with passion and cruelty, heroism and sorrow (the book) is a masterpiece in the tradition of the greatest nineteenth century Russian novels."--back cover

"The Greatest Thing Since Sliced Bread" by Don Robertson - "Set against the backdrop of one of the worst industrial disasters in American history, Don Robertson's enduring, beloved masterwork is a remarkable story of destiny, bravery, and responsibility, as fresh and relevant as when it first appeared in print."--back cover

"The Lumby Lines" by Gail Fraser - "Gail Frazer has assembled a wonderful cast of characters and plunked them down in the middle of a beautiful town that rivals Jan Karon's Mitford for pure fun. Of course, there are obstacles to overcome, mysteries to solve, even some romance and reconciliation along the way to a very satisfying conclusion. Altogether a wonderful story, highly recommended."--Cozy Library

"The Widow" by Georges Simenon - "The story of two outcasts and their fatal encounter...It is Georges Simenon's most powerful and disturbing exploration of the bond between death and desire."--back cover

BIOGRAPHY

"When God is Gone Everything is Holy" by Chet Raymo - In what he describes as a "late-life credo," renowned science writer Chet Raymo narrates his half-century journey from the traditional Catholicism of his youth to his present perspective as a "Catholic agnostic." As a scientist, Raymo holds to the skepticism that accepts only verifiable answers, but as a "religious naturalist," he never ceases his pursuit of "the beautiful and terrible mystery that soaks creation." Raymo assembles a stunning array of scientists, philosophers, mystics, and poets who help him discover "glimmers of the Absolute in every particular." Whether exploring the connection of the human body to the stars or the meaning of prayer of the heart, these challenging reflections will cause believers and agnostics alike to pause and pay attention.--Product Description, Amazon

MYSTERY

"The Apostate's Tale" by Margaret Frazer - "Dame Frevisse must determine whether Sister Cecely, newly returned to the nunnery with her young son, is truly interested in repenting for her sins--or if she's just in hiding after involvement in schemes that threaten everyone at St. Fridewide."--the Publisher

REFERENCE

"Emily Post's Etiquette, 17th Edition" by Peggy Post - "It is truly a wonder that more Americans don't consider Emily Post's discourses on etiquette one of the most useful reference books published, next to a dictionary, a thesaurus, and a world atlas. And with great-granddaughter-in-law's modernization, this seventeenth edition, covering birth through death, reflects what must be done concerning hundreds of social conventions. Wondering what are appropriate e-mail manners? Look no further than Peggy Post's list of 10 e-mail transgressions. Want to stifle the boorish conversationalist? Check carefully the author's witty rejoinders. With wisdom, wit, and no small amount of humility, Post carries on well the intent of her family: "Courteous people enrich their own spirits by making other people feel good."" Barbara Jacobs, Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association.

DVD


"The Legend of Bagger Vance"
- "Tale of a local hero with a promising future whose hopes are shattered on the battlefields of war. The disillusioned young man turns his back on the world--until a fateful visit from a mysterious stranger turns his life around."--back cover

EASY READER


"Piggy and Dad: Brand New Readers" by David Martin - Candlewick adds to its Brand New Readers series with Piggy and Dad by David Martin, illus. by Frank Remkiewicz; The Rosa Stories by Sheila White Samton; and Wow, It's Worm! by Kathy Caple. Each consists of a slipcase that includes four paperback eight-page story books with minimal text on each colorful spread.--From Publishers Weekly, Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

"Piggy and Dad Go Fishing" by David Martin - "Young Piggy is excited about going fishing with his dad for the first time. It's fresh fish for supper tonight! But once at the lake, Piggy has a few problems. When it comes to baiting his hook, the worm wiggles off. When Dad tells Piggy, "You'll really have to hook him," the worm smiles at Piggy, and the fishermen decide to use bread instead. Once Piggy actually catches a fish, he feels compelled, with Dad's agreement, to throw it back. By day's end, the duo finds that feeding the fish is better than catching them. This upbeat book, with its jolly illustrations in watercolor and crayon, raises some interesting issues. On one hand, it's nice to see a bonded father and son, especially with a dad who unreservedly accepts his son's choices. On the other, there's no doubt about the book's political correctness. Fishing comes across as a sport that's cruel to "sad" fish and smiling worms. Many readers will agree, but avid anglers may be offended. It's something to think about."--Ilene Cooper, Booklist

"Mr. and Mrs. Portly and Their Little Dog, Snack" by Sandra Jordan - “The witty . . . story line is well matched by the illustrations’ energy, flair, and ebullient use of color.” —School Library Journal

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