Banned Books

 Hot Topic 

I recently went to a group meeting at a local library. Their series topic was banned books. Each month they discuss one of these books. This month happened to be a book I had read years ago, Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult. I remember it was about a school shooting but didn’t understand why that subject would be banned. It turns out it isn’t about the shooting or bullying, it’s about the date rape. Specifically the use of the word erection. You may feel the word was unnecessary to describe part of the event. Radio stations have word changes to be able to play some songs. Would that change opinions?

There was a deep discussion about bullying and its effects on teenagers. Should they be charged as an adult? The book was written in 2007. With a little bit of research, we see the number of school shootings are up. Considering bullying is nothing new and guns in homes are not new, what is making the difference? So much to talk about with this issue.

Library Renovation

 Center Harbor, NH Library 

This library first built in 1903 is looking to renovate. It is a rather small space using only the upstairs. The plan is to renovate the downstairs in order to double the size. Most libraries of this age have expanded by adding to the back of the building. Often not keeping with the original design due to the cost. Center Harbor has a unique advantage of having the unused room. A fun feature is an old vault that use to be used by town residents. They have added outdoor seating facing Lake Winnipesaukee. Also visible to the winter home of the Mt. Washington cruise ship.

I truly hope that the town and the people approve the new plan to expand their indoor space.

James Patterson

 Author Review 

Or should I say James Patterson and….

When I first discovered Patterson I loved everything he wrote. I knew I didn’t need to read the jacket cover to decide to pick up the latest. Until… a few books into the Cross series, I couldn’t believe how many times this guy got shot and survived. Then came the “bird” books as I call them. I am not into fantasy at all. Now I read the synopsis offered and consider the story theme. Have you noticed most of his books are now coauthored? It’s true that he couldn’t put out the number of books per year alone. His stories hit many genres including thriller, romance and children’s books. If you stop by any book sale you will find at least 20 of his titles at each. 

I have heard how he is quite generous with students, educators, libraries and independent bookstores.

He believes better readers create better humans. A considerable amount of money has been put towards literacy for years now. Thank you Mr. Patterson, you have my respect.

Bridgton Library

Bridgton, ME

Opened in 1896. It has two floors with elevator access to both. They have a great outdoor space for reading or socializing in front of their building. A bright and cheerful first floor for their children’s room. The Bridgton Public Library’s primary purpose is to serve the community as its information and cultural enrichment center. Providing access to educational, informational, and recreational resources in a friendly, safe atmosphere while being responsive to the changing needs of the community.

 

Bridgton Books

Bridgton, ME

New, used and discounted books fill this quaint shop.Very few of the books are sold at full price.Take your time and browse till your heart’s content. Also many book themed sundries to choose from. Located in the center of a great little village to stroll through. The mural is on the side of their building. The shop opened in 1993. Can’t forget to mention the cat who also roams the aisles with you! https://www.bridgtonbooks.com/

 

Why do you keep books you already read?

 Do you reread your books? I honestly don’t. I wish I could read a book again with fresh eyes especially those with a twist. I have reread by accident. Sometimes a book will come out with a new cover. I know I have read the author before but it seems like a different story. I have created a book list containing those I have read and those still on my tbr shelf. I keep it on my phone so this won’t happen again.

I keep books that are at least 4 out of 5 stars. I let people borrow them. But mostly I like to look at them on my bookcases. I’ve heard a person should decorate their homes with the things that they love ❤️.

Lisa Scottoline

 Author Review 

So many books written by Lisa. Some were coauthored with her daughter. I think these books/essays are my favorites. The collection is so real and so funny. Even the titles can put a smile on your face. I met both mother and daughter at an author signing years ago. They posted snippets on Facebook of their road-trip together, at least the funny parts. 

She has written a lawyer/detective series. These fiction books have a very different tone than her nonfiction observations series. There’s also a large amount of standalone thriller/suspense novels to check out. These have themes including many with family drama.