In 1960, Steinbeck felt that he no longer intimately understood the country that he had been writing about for most of his life. Travels with Charley is his travelogue that came from his desire to see the country one last time before he died. It’s a rich perspective on America as only Steinbeck can tell it, as …
This piece was originally published on the Island Books blog. Growing up, I loved getting lost in books: It didn’t matter to me if the book was adventurous, dramatic, suspenseful, or fantastical; as long as it transported me somewhere else, I was happy. I’d be so immersed in my book that I’d barely hear my …
Winter evenings by the wood stove present just the right opportunity for revisiting a classic book. And for anyone who studies and writes about natural history, as I do, few titles are more foundational than Walden by Henry David Thoreau. It’s the sort of text that gets quoted more than read, however, and I couldn’t recall …
My 20th reading of this existential classic (I read it once a year). A story whose narrator rides waves of sorrow, dread, and sometimes joy. Ultimately empty, but with hope. Exploring and explaining a world that both makes sense to human probing, but denies it at the same time. Favorite quote: “My memories are like …
Independent bookstores don’t have the space to carry every title, but they celebrate your freedom to read. This week, many stores created displays to raise awareness of censorship through Banned Books Week (September 23-29, 2018). From University Book Store in Seattle: We’re with the Banned. In celebration and anticipation of 2018’s top 10 banned books, we’re …
This quaint and beautifully illustrated children’s book is sure to capture the heart of any Jane Austen fan. It is the story of young Jane, growing up in a house bustling with activity, her nose buried in books from her father’s impressive library. It tells of her passion for writing, her independent spirit, and the …
From Shelf Awareness for Readers May 15, 2018; Chuck Palahniuk: ‘A Creature of Infinite Light & Love’ Chuck Palahniuk is the author of more than 17 fictional works, including Fight Club, Invisible Monsters, Rant and[…] Make Something Up. He lives in the Pacific Northwest. We talked with him recently about Adjustment Day (Norton, $26.95), his first novel in four years.What did you learn …
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas Sometimes we all need a bit of swashbuckling adventure in our lives. As a reader who went through a heavy “classic literature” phase, this one emerged as one of my favorites. Though its sized might seem intimidating, the pages will absolutely fly by! –Stephanie, Village Books, Bellingham and …
Mary Shelley’s iconic “monster” is brought to life in this beautiful, almost coffee table book-sized edition of Frankenstein. Inside you will find in-depth notations providing context and interesting facts; large, full color illustrations; and, of course, the original novel in easy-to-read large print. There is something to be found for every reader, whether you are discovering …
Ho hum, another Monday morning. Reminded me of that one day in 1979. And we’re probably going to see the exact same thing in 2169. So tedious. But seriously, wasn’t that spectacular? Like you probably were, I was pretty well prepared to see something special. I got hold of a copy of David Baron’s American Eclipse weeks ago. I …
