This month's LitSoup is a fairly simple question:

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island, what three books would you take with you?

The thing that's great about this scenario is that you know in advance you will be stranded, so you have time to plan out the only books you will be able to read for the rest of your life. Some aspects to consider in making your selection might be length, difficulty and re-readability.

I posed this question to the newsroom. Many of my colleagues considered length and entertainment, while some considered resourcefulness. Here are the responses I received:

John Bertosa

• The Lord of the Rings. I’ve seen this published in one volume so I’m going to count it as one book! It has the re-readability factor thanks to all the little details involved
• Les Miserables. Never read it because I never had the time, so it’s perfect for a deserted island
• How to Get Off a Deserted Island. Just joking
• Dante’s Inferno. I’ve read it but I really need do it again without any distraction

Jean Bonchak

• “The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” After reading this book several years ago its message stays with me – that all hold an aching hole in their heart seeking authentic love to fill it. It’s a book that for me, illustrates Emily Dickinson’s beautiful quote - “That love is all there is, is all we know of love.”
• “Wuthering Heights” Who could tire of the yearning love and passion between Catherine and Heathcliffe? The tender weaving of the tale leaves me with a sweet sadness.
• “Who Moved My Cheese?” This quick read is an eye-opener for anyone who has difficulty with change. So many of us get stuck in daily habits and life situations thinking there are no other options, or, if there were, they couldn’t possibly work. Surprise! What are we missing when we don’t opt for change? When we don’t seek the treasures waiting for us around the next corner? Not only do we prevent growth, but we risk a stinky life of stagnation.

Danielle Capriato

• My one-book, complete series edition of “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” 5 books + one story bound together makes for easy re-readability since it is actually 5.5 books in one. And my leather-bound edition has an error on the cover, which makes me believe it’s unique and special, so I’d want to have that with me I guess. Also, the H2G2 series is definitely a favorite.
• “The Salmon of Doubt” by Douglass Adams. Even though I’d then have an overwhelming amount of DA literature, this one is a special book. After Adams died, his friends, family and publishers raided his computers and compiled some of his essays and short stories into one book. It’s got so many different pieces, it would also be easy to re-read.
• I guess I really do have to go with the Bible. There are a ton of stories, many (well, all? Maybe?) rich in history. I’ve never read it so it would be the best time to do it.

Jeffrey L. Frischkorn

• The King James Version of the Bible, because there is no better or more important read.
• “The Old Man and the Boy,” because this is my favorite fiction book.
• The best overall “how-to” book carried by Lowe’s, because if I’m stranded on a deserted island I’ll need all of the help I can get.

Angela Gartner

• Complete Stories and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe – With Poe I can get so many different dark short stories, which is what I really love to read.
• "IT" Stephen King – so many greats by King, but I guess I would pick “IT”, because it’s the longest.
• "Animal Farm" George Orwell - I recently re-read this book and then a month later listen to it again on audio book. I am fascinated with what happens to Boxer and the other animals on the farm. How can they be so deceived into thinking living that way is better? Although, I might get depressed about this on a desert island. If I could cheat and bring one more book by Orwell, I would bring “1984” - Maybe both would come in a box set that I could bring along.

Rachel Jackson

• Voices of the Winds: Native American Legends, collected by Margot Edmonds and Ella E. Clark. It’s a fat volume of legends ordered by general region. I’m still barely halfway through though I’ve had it for ages. It’s shoddily edited so I can waste time fussing and fuming over the sections that don’t appear to have been proofread, but the legends themselves offer fantastic insights into values and spirituality.
• To the Castle and Back, by Vaclav Havel. Modern-day journal excerpts, interview segments, and scatterings of memos from his time in office. A fantastically complicated read to which I intend to return in the near future.
• Any of Elizabeth Peters’ Amelia Peabody mysteries. Tongue-in-cheek spoofs on olden-day romances, the books are a light-hearted read with enough humor – as well as a mild dose of blood and gore, with plenty of corpses to go around – that they’re rarely cheesy and generally fun. They’re based at the turn of the last century, when Egyptology was the craze, and include a noteworthy, though rarely dizzying, amount of historical research. And, in keeping with the theme, the linguistic style is just fancy enough to prevent one from devouring the books without savoring them.

Cheryl Sadler

• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. This might be my favorite book, and I could read it over and over and over again.
• "Days of Dreams and Laughter: The Story Girl and Other Tales" by Lucy Maud Montgomery. This book was a gift from my grandmother when I was younger, and I remember reading "The Story Girl" and imagining I was friends with the children who lived on Prince Edward Island. Even though the books are easy reads (intended for young adults), I think I might enjoy returning to my Canadian friends to keep me company.
• The Bible. I haven't read the entire thing, and I would like to someday. Having it with me on a desert island would be the perfect opportunity.

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This post is part of a LitSoup, a new regular monthly feature on The Book Club compiled of contributions from the newsroom. Send an e-mail or tweet with your suggestions for future LitSoup topics.

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

Odds and Book Ends features activities and events in the area related to libraries, books and authors. Submit your events at www.News-Herald.com/Calendar, and check back to The Book Club every week for upcoming events and activities at your local library.

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This week

The Twentysomething Readers Book Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. April 25 at Panera, 9587 Mentor Ave., Mentor, to discuss this month's selection "The Gargoyle" by Andrew Davidson. Discussion is with Mentor Library librarian Steve Haas.


Author Regina Brett will visit Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., at 7 p.m. April 26. She will be signing copies of her book, "God Never Blinks," which will be available for purchase. Call the library to register: 440-255-8811, ext. 215.


Joe the Coupon Guy will present a class at 7 p.m. April 26 at Perry Library, 3753 Main St. Learn how to save money on grocery shopping, restaurants, utility bills, cellphones, vacations, gas and more. Details: www.joethecouponguy.com/schedule/index.htm


The Chardon Friends of the Library will host its annual Maple Festival book sale in Chardon Library's Bostwick Room April 28 through May 1. On April 28 will be a Friends-only preview from 9 to 10 a.m.; you may join the Friends or renew membership at the door. General sale hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 28, 29 and 30, and from 1 to 5 p.m. May 1. May 1 is bag day, when books will be prices at $3 per bag.


Claire Zurbuch, a resident of Hambden Township for nearly four decades, is the season’s featured artist at “Art in the Mart” at the Middlefield Library, 16167 E. High St. Zurbuch is a photographer who specializes in film. His work features nature, landscapes and photos from a recent trip to Italy with his wife, Kay. Zurbuch will present “Photographing Italy” at 7 p.m. April 28. More than a travelogue, the free program will include tips on how to photograph a vacation. “Art in the Mart” is sponsored by the Geauga Council for Arts & Culture, whose mission is to bring art and people together. All of the items are for sale and the proceeds benefit the artist, the council and the Middlefield Library. Other Art in the Mart locations include the New York Deli, the Geauga YMCA and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. Those interested in purchasing a piece, can email artinthemart@gmail.com or call 440-537-3344.


Friends of the Euclid Library will have a book sale during the following times:

• 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 29 (special members' only preview)
• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 30
• 1 to 4 p.m. May 1 (buy a bag for $2 and will it with the book sale materials

The sale will be at Euclid Library, 631 E. 222nd St. Details: 216-261-5300.


The Force will be with you from 11 a.m. to noon April 30 at Madison Library, 6111 Middle Ridge Road. Padawans ages 3 to 7 and their Masters can come for a morning of "Star Wars" fun. Making light sabers and practicing dueling are just two of the many activities going on. Coming in costume is encouraged. Register at 440-482-2189 or www.madison-library.info.


Drumplay, a percussion group from Cleveland, will perform at 1 p.m. April 30 at Perry Library, 3753 Main St. The event is intended to be interactive and fun for the entire family. Children will make a drum craft to take home. Drumplay's sound is described as "rhythmprovisation": world/jazz percussion inspired by Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and West African rhythms as well as Middle Eastern motifs. Registration is appreciated but not required: perrypubliclibrary.org or 440-259-3300.


The Friends of the Burton Public Library will host its annual meeting and volunteer recognition at 2 p.m. May 1 at the library, 14588 W. Park St. The public is invited, and entertainment will include a portrayal of legendary Cleveland journalist Dorothy Fuldheim by local writer, actor and producer Carol Starre-Kmiecik. Refreshments will be served. Details: 440-834-4466.

Coming up

Mentor Library's Monday Night Book Discussion meets the first Monday of each month from October through June, with the next meeting slated for May 2. For this month's selection, contact librarian Barb Hauer at 440-255-8811, ext. 210. The library provides books, and refreshments are courtesy of the Friends of the Library.


At the upcoming regular meeting of the East Cuyahoga County Genealogical Society, Tom Neel, Ohio Genealogical Society Library director, will present a program on doing research in Ohio county courthouses. In addition, he will give an update on the new Ohio Genealogical Society Library, located in Bellville.
The presentation will be at 7 p.m. May 2 at the Ross C. DeJohn Community Center, 6306 Marsol Road, Mayfield Heights. Guests are welcome to attend for a $3 visitor fee that may be applied to membership. The facility is handicap accessible. Details: Stacie at 216-379-0749 (evenings or weekends) or Mac at mksauer4@roadrunner.com.


A free Medicare information program will be at 7 p.m. May 4 at Willowick Library, 263 E. 305th St. If you are approaching age 65 or going on Medicare for the first time, this is an opportunity to gain a basic understanding of how Medicare works. Speaker Laura Mutsko designed the class to make the Medicare system easy to navigate and understand. Mutsko is the owner of Mutsko Insurance LLC and has been a license insurance agent since 1997. She has extensive experience in the insurance industry, much of it in the field of elder insurance products and services. To register, call the library at 440-943-4151.


Comics and Friends presents Archie Comics writer Craig Boldman as part of Free Comic Book Day, May 7 at the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor. Visit www.comicsandfriends.com.


Larry Morrow, author of "This is Larry Morrow ...," will be at the South Euclid Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, 4645 Mayfield Road, from 7 to 8 p.m. May 9 Details: 216-382-4880. Click here to read an excerpt from "This is Larry Morrow ..."


Reel Talk-Book and Movie Discussion Group meets at 2:45 p.m. the second Monday of every month in Morley Library's meeting Room B, with the next meeting taking place May 9. Books and DVDs are available at the check-out desk on the main floor. The library is located at 184 Phelps St., Painesville. Details: 440-352-3383 or www.morleylibrary.org.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

As so much about the publishing world continues to change, it does beg the question:
What is a book?
Matthew Ingram of GigaOM.com offers his take on the issue.
 See if you agree.

- Tricia Ambrose

Things in Sweet Valley aren't so sweet any more.

"Sweet Valley Confidential: Ten Years Later..." by Francine Pascal sure lets readers know about that quickly -- in the first chapter, we learn that Elizabeth is not speaking to Jessica, who is engaged to Todd. Circumstances are bringing the now-New-Yorker Elizabeth back to California, and the girls are both anxious to be in the same place. Jessica desperately wants Elizabeth's forgiveness; Elizabeth, revenge.

These aren't your mothers Wakefield twins. The girls have developed foul mouths and are a bit more grown up in a romance-novel sort of way.

The rest of their high school classmates are grown up, as well, but most seem to carry the same characteristics. Lila Fowler is still shallow, and she is inexplicably married to football star Ken Matthews (he just seems to good for her!). Caroline Pearce is still a gossip. Enid Rollins is still smart. Winston is still a dork, and Bruce Patman is still filthy rich, but somehow the two became best of buds during a dot-com venture. The formerly fat Robin Wilson is "a successful caterer and restaurant critic, chin-deep in delicious food every day."

Perhaps what I liked best about the book was the flashbacks in the midst of all the action, explaining what has happened since high school that has brought the girls to their current situations. It was interesting to catch up with these people who I had gotten to know intimately while reading the books about their lives. But the sad, pathetic part about it was that no one seemed genuinely happy with where they were. Divorces, falling outs, cancer, death. The real world was not as peaceful and forgiving as Sweet Valley High.

I found it hard to believe that all these high school classmates would still be in touch with the same groups of people, as if no one had found new friends or moved away. But maybe that's because I'm from a bigger town than Sweet Valley, where most people I know from high school have moved on in their own way while maintaining the friendships that really meant something.

I also was puzzled by the fact that Jessica has been married twice, but her pending nuptials to Todd seem to be the talk of the town and the most exciting thing for the Wakefield family (minus Elizabeth). Really, Ned and Alice? Your daughter is about to walk the aisle for the third time -- to marry your other daughter's LOOOONG-time beau -- and you are THAT thrilled about it?

Is the book worth reading? Maybe. If you were a big fan of the Sweet Valley series, of course you'll want to catch up with the ol' gang. Casual readers, maybe not so much.

The book is (mostly) written better than the original series, until after a climactic dinner party when Pascal returns to the overly dramatic descriptions of how he knew he loved her all along and that sort of thing. But I suppose if you enjoyed reading Sweet Valley books for cheesy descriptions, then you won't be missing out.

And it's nice to see Elizabeth being a little more Jessica and Jessica being a little more Elizabeth. The girls were so set in their ways growing up, and now that they are adults, they seem to have reached a point where they are able to comfortably be more like the other person without losing themselves. (And if you didn't notice it before, you'll really get a sense for how narcissistic and pompous Jessica was.)

If nothing else, "Sweet Valley Confidential" was an easy way to enter another world at least temporarily, which can relieve readers of their own problems and let them feast on the drama of other people's lives. As Jessica herself says (on page 224), "Gossip is the best part of Sweet Valley. If we don't dish, what are we going to talk about?" We're all a little Caroline Pearce, aren't we?


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

Go back to a simpler time with Edward Stephens in "Home Place: Gone But Not Forgotten."
The Mentor author recalls the days of moonshine making and miles-long walks to a one-room schoolhouse 
His book opens with a recounting of his early years and family history.
As he recalls:

Now the older children had to start working harder to help with the new arrivals. Without running water or inside plumbing, this made things tough when it came to wash day. We had to draw water from the well with a bailer, or carry it from the creek. For the hot water it was boiled outside in a tub over an open fire. There was a lot of water to carry to fill the washer and tub for rinsing.

I don't think I'll be complaining about my laundry hassles so much now!
Stephens shares charming memories of nights listening to the grownups tell stories and of the fun he and his siblings had - with little to entertain themselves with except each other.
It will take folks of a certain era back and shed some light on the "old days" for younger readers.
The second part of the book is a compilation of Stephens' poetry. These pieces are autobiographical as well. Poems like "Sister," "My Baby Girl," and "Class of Sixty-Nine" speak to experiences he's had.
And it's always nice to see a  local author's dream of getting published come true. Keeps hope alive for the rest of us!

-Tricia Ambrose

If you're like many of the avid readers who contribute to this blog, that's probably a question that comes up regularly.

I know I've asked friends and coworkers for book recommendations regularly, and am sometimes stumped for an answer.

Well, I've found a solution.

What Should I Read Next? is a website that allows readers to input the name of a book or author they enjoyed reading and receive recommendations from a database of 1 million users for something similar to read. The website says it works based on collective taste: When books are entered into the same list, they become associated with each other. The more often particular items appear on different lists, the stronger that association becomes. It's an interesting experiment in mass opinion, and rather fun to play with.

For example, I typed in "The Catcher in the Rye." My suggestions included the following:

• "1984" by George Orwell
• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• "The Shape of Things" by Neil Labute
• "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett

and many, many more.

Each entry on the list of suggestions has a book icon next to it, that, when clicked, brings you to an Amazon.com search for the book so that you can learn more, read reviews and even purchase the book if it suits your fancy. Some of the suggestions were books (and even plays, including the works of Shakespeare) I had heard of and forgot I wanted to read them. Some were works I'd never heard of. In any event, I had a lot of fun experimenting with the search feature.

After you search for a book, you can register to be a part of the What Should I Read Next? database. According to the website, you can build a list of all the books you've read and run searches with any combination of books and authors for better, more detailed results.

I think there are several kinks that need to be worked out on the list. For example, I saw the same books by both Truman Capote and Capote Truman in one search. But it's still an interesting experiment and kind of a fun way to get a quick and easy book recommendation.

--Danielle Capriato
DCapriato@News-Herald.com

Odds and Book Ends features activities and events in the area related to libraries, books and authors. Submit your events at www.News-Herald.com/Calendar, and check back to The Book Club every week for upcoming events and activities at your local library.

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This week

The Friends of the Cleveland Public Library will have a Spring Used Book Sale April 18-21 at Cleveland Public Library, 525 Superior Ave. A large selection of books in all categories will be on sale, including an assortment of audio books and music CDs. A members-only preview will be 10 a.m. to noon April 18, and members should bring their cards for admittance. Those who are not members of the Friends may join at the door. The sale will be open to the public noon to 6 p.m. April 18 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 19 and 20. On April 21, a bag of books will be offered for $5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Details: 216-623-2821.


Mentor Public Library's Book Club for Men will meet at 7 p.m. April 18 in the Frances Cleveland Room at the main library, 8215 Mentor Ave. Join male readers to discuss books of interest with librarian Steve Haas. This month's selection is "To Kill the Irishman" by Rick Porrello. Details: 440-255-8811.


Welcome to Medicare will be 2 to 3 p.m. April 19 at Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave. The introduction to Medicare for individuals who are new to Medicare are approaching Medicare age will be presented by Alyea Barajas of the Lake County Council on Aging. Details: 440-255-8811, ext. 215, or www.mentorpl.org.


Dan Coughlin, author of "Crazy, With the Papers to Prove It," will be in the area at the following times, dates and locations:

• 7 to 8 p.m. April 20, Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St. Details: 216-261-5300.
• 2 to 3 p.m. May 15, Chagrin Falls Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, 100 E. Orange St. Details: 440-247-3556.

Re-enactors representing James and Lucretia Garfield will visit Dudley Fieldhouse, 31500 Willowick Drive, at 7 p.m. April 21. The Garfields will discuss how they crossed paths before their marriage, the pitfalls of their "Dark Years," and how their relationship -- and their family -- blossomed. The program is co-sponsored by the Willoughby Historical Society. To register for the free program, call Willowick Library at 440-943-4151.


Friends of the Mentor Library will have a book sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 22 at the main library, 8215 Mentor Ave. All proceeds benefit the library. Details: 440-255-8811, ext. 236.

Coming up

The Twentysomething Readers Book Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. April 25 at Panera, 9587 Mentor Ave., Mentor, to discuss this month's selection "The Gargoyle" by Andrew Davidson. Discussion is with Mentor Library librarian Steve Haas.


Author Regina Brett will visit Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., at 7 p.m. April 26. She will be signing copies of her book, "God Never Blinks," which will be available for purchase. Call the library to register: 440-255-8811, ext. 215.


Joe the Coupon Guy will present a class at 7 p.m. April 26 at Perry Library, 3753 Main St. Learn how to save money on grocery shopping, restaurants, utility bills, cellphones, vacations, gas and more. Details: www.joethecouponguy.com/schedule/index.htm


Claire Zurbuch, a resident of Hambden Township for nearly four decades, is the season’s featured artist at “Art in the Mart” at the Middlefield Library, 16167 E. High St. Zurbuch is a photographer who specializes in film. His work features nature, landscapes and photos from a recent trip to Italy with his wife, Kay. Zurbuch will present “Photographing Italy” at 7 p.m. April 28. More than a travelogue, the free program will include tips on how to photograph a vacation. “Art in the Mart” is sponsored by the Geauga Council for Arts & Culture, whose mission is to bring art and people together. All of the items are for sale and the proceeds benefit the artist, the council and the Middlefield Library. Other Art in the Mart locations include the New York Deli, the Geauga YMCA and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. Those interested in purchasing a piece, can email artinthemart@gmail.com or call 440-537-3344.


Friends of the Euclid Library will have a book sale during the following times:

• 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 29 (special members' only preview)
• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 30
• 1 to 4 p.m. May 1 (buy a bag for $2 and will it with the book sale materials

The sale will be at Euclid Library, 631 E. 222nd St. Details: 216-261-5300.


Drumplay, a percussion group from Cleveland, will perform at 1 p.m. April 30 at Perry Library, 3753 Main St. The event is intended to be interactive and fun for the entire family. Children will make a drum craft to take home. Drumplay's sound is described as "rhythmprovisation": world/jazz percussion inspired by Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and West African rhythms as well as Middle Eastern motifs. Registration is appreciated but not required: perrypubliclibrary.org or 440-259-3300.


The Friends of the Burton Public Library will host its annual meeting and volunteer recognition at 2 p.m. May 1 at the library, 14588 W. Park St. The public is invited, and entertainment will include a portrayal of legendary Cleveland journalist Dorothy Fuldheim by local writer, actor and producer Carol Starre-Kmiecik. Refreshments will be served. Details: 440-834-4466.


Mentor Library's Monday Night Book Discussion meets the first Monday of each month from October through June, with the next meeting slated for May 2. For this month's selection, contact librarian Barb Hauer at 440-255-8811, ext. 210. The library provides books, and refreshments are courtesy of the Friends of the Library.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

The Sweet Valley Confidential Twitter account posted this sweet video Tuesday afternoon. Kinda makes me want to revisit all the books.



Did anyone have this game? More importantly, does anyone still have this game?

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

P.S.: I'm well in to "Sweet Valley Confidential." Expect to read a full recap and review right here next week.

Is that a poem in your pocket or are you just glad to see me?
In case you didn't know, today is Poem in Your Pocket Day.
The idea is that folks will carry around a favorite poem in their pocket, and them share it with those they encounter today.

Find out more from the Academy of American Poets.

And so I share with you this from Robert Frost:



Nature's first green is gold
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf's a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.


Got a favorite to share?

- Tricia Ambrose 

Follow me on Twitter @triciaambrose

All Things Considered published a story this week titled "Twin Drama Returns in 'Sweet Valley Confidential.' " Reporter Rachel Syme interviewed author Francine Pascal on her decision to return to the series, as well as screenwriter Diablo Cody, who is transforming the series into a movie. Click here to listen to the story's broadcast, or here to read the web version of the story.

The story linked above includes an excerpt from the first chapter of the book.

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

Clevelanders are not shy about expressing themselves when it comes to their sorrows (lots of them) and joys (not so many) over the Browns, Indians and Cavs.
We gripe about players and owners often and aren't shy about sharing our opinions on what should/could be done differently to bring home those elusive championship trophies.
And still, sometimes, it's easy to forget that professional sports have meaning far beyond the field of play for lots of us.
I was particularly reminded of that when reading Sean Manning's memoir about his mother's last months battling illness.
In "The Things That Need Doing," Manning chronicles his stay at his mom's Cleveland Clinic bedside.
He tells how he left his life in New York for more than a year to be with his mother back home in Northeast Ohio. He details the often baffling world of modern-day medicine. And he shares the struggles of grappling with being the sole decision-maker.
But this is not a what-a-great-son-I-am tale or what-great-doctors-we-have-in-Ohio piece, though that's true.
Instead the reader (at least this reader) comes away with the sense that sometimes we get through the awful times just by doing those things that need to be done. These are not the times for philosophy and discussion; we just do what we must.
And one of the things that not only helped Manning cope through the trying times but also was part of that fabric of family life, was sports.
As he writes:

For us, therefore, a lot more was riding on the Cavs' playoff success than bragging rights or decades' worth of redemption. Every game, every series won ensured a few more days of anticipation, a few more treasured opportunities for escape. In one of those uncanny consequences that seemed to punctuate the entire ordeal, not only did the G-and-J tube procedure fall on the same date Mom turned fifty-nine; that night was game five of the Eastern Conference Finals versus the top-seeded and heavily favored Detroit Pistons. And given the outcome of the procedure, the need for distraction was greater than ever.

 That's the kind of thing that sports can provide that has nothing to do with success on the field.

- Tricia Ambrose

You can't help but fall in love with Luke Prescott.
He's the charming 17-year-old raised with his two older sisters by a Bohemian mom and a religious grandmother now spending a summer with the father he's never known.
Meg Howrey's "Blind Sight" chronicles that summer of discovery.
I generally am more drawn to female lead characters, but Luke got to me.
As he struggles to forge a relationship with his father, a successful television star, he's also trying to craft his admission essay for college. Turns out his father - and the readers - gets to know him through the series of stories he writes as possible essays.
Those essays provide insight into Luke's thoughts on his relationships and his place in the world. Oh yeah, and they're at times touching, at times hysterical. I particularly enjoyed his tale of how he and his sisters acted out their grandfather's death at the hands of the Accordion Indians. (He died in Ecuador.)
One of the passages that  really stuck with me was this account of his first meeting with his father:

"We didn't fly into each other's arms or anything like that. We shook hands. I appreciated that, because I think it's better not to load a whole bunch of feelings on top of things. Like, you could have a bunch of feelings about my family history and say it's very meaningful, or you could say, "nope. Just random. Doesn't mean anything." You could say, "Oh, my long-long father, what an emotional moment," or you could say, "Okay, we are biologically related. Interesting." My point is that people act like their feelings are something they can't help, but that's not totally true. Every time you run something over in your head you are firing the same set of synapses into the brain. You can create an emotion, is what I'm saying. You have to be careful about that."

As someone who has spent a lot (too much) time running things over (and over and over and over)  in my head, I was nodding my head at Luke's assessment.
Howrey's characters don't sink into stereotype, yet seem familiar. Her pacing was swift, but not so fast I felt I was reading a script rather than a novel. And her plot contained twists and surprises, but remained true to the characters.
A most impressive debut.

- Tricia Ambrose

P.S. One hundred fifty years ago today at Fort Sumter, S.C., the Civil War began. A shout out to the late Irene Hunt, author of "Across Five Aprils." I still recall the year I found this gem under the Christmas tree, and it remains one of my favorite books about that war. Thumbs-up for another gift that year: "Johnny Tremain" by Esther Forbes. Hooked me on the Revolutionary War as well.

I didn't know it until reading Jean Bonchak's story, but Wednesday is National Bookmobile Day, and the Geauga County Public Library System's Bookmobile is the busiest of its kind in the state. The article states that the Bookmobile circulates more than 225,000 items at its 86 stops. How neat to have such a valuable resource in our own backyard.

Click here to read Jean's entire story on the Geauga Bookmobile.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

One of my favorite aspects of National Library Week is the release of the annual list of top 10 challenged books.

This year, Suzanne Collins makes her first appearance on the American Library Association's list of books with "The Hunger Games." Click here to see what else made the list and learn about the questionable content of the books.

Have you read "The Hunger Games" or other books that made the list?


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

Amber Chapman, one of our Community Media Lab bloggers, wrote a post last night about taking your family to the library for National Library Week.

It looks like she has had quite a few positive experiences with public libraries, and National Library Week is a great time to express that.

I know I have had similar positive experiences to Amber. My parents would regularly take my sisters and me to the library, where we would fill up our bags with as many books as we would carry. We always won the summer reading contests at school, and my great experiences with libraries is part of what motivated me to get my master's in library and information science.

Check out Amber's blog post, and feel free to comment here or there on what libraries have meant to you and your family.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl


(P.S.: Have your own blog you want on our Community Media Lab? Email communitymedialab@news-herald.com. Find out more about becoming a Media Lab blogger by clicking here.)

Odds and Book Ends features activities and events in the area related to libraries, books and authors. Submit your events at www.News-Herald.com/Calendar, and check back to The Book Club every week for upcoming events and activities at your local library.

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Celebrate National Library Week

This week is National Library Week. The American Library Association has some information about news and events for the week posted here, including, a National Library Week twaiku (Twitter haiku) contest. Additionally, teens can enter the "Why I Need My Library" video contest for a chance to win $3,000 for their library. Details on ilovelibraries.org and in the video below:


Watch a video of author and Honorary Chair of National Library Week John Grisham on the value of libraries and librarians below:

This week

Reel Talk-Book and Movie Discussion Group meets at 2:45 p.m. the second Monday of every month in Morley Library's meeting Room B, with the next meeting taking place April 11. Books and DVDs are available at the check-out desk on the main floor. The library is located at 184 Phelps St., Painesville. Details: 440-352-3383 or www.morleylibrary.org.


Books & Cooks! will be 6 to 8 p.m. April 11 at Madison Library, 6111 Middle Ridge Road. Several local authors will be signing and selling their books while local cooks, caterers and restaurants will be offering samples of their specialties. The event is sponsored by Friends of Madison Public Library and will be the grand finale of Patron Appreciation Day, April 11, which kicks off Madison Public Library's National Library Week celebration. If you are an author or cook and want to reserve a table, call the library at 440-428-2189. Visit the library's website at www.madison-library.info for more National Library Week Activities.


John Stark Bellamy II, author of "The Last Days of Cleveland," will be in the area at the following times, dates and locations:

• 7 to 8 p.m. April 12, Mayfield Village Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, 6080 Wilson Mills Road. Details: 440-473-0350.
• 7 to 8 p.m. April 14, Willowick Public Library, 273 E. 305th St. Details: 440-943-4151.

Carol Starre-Kmiecik will bring the Unsinkable Molly Brown to life at 7 p.m. April 12 at Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave. Brown an American socialite, philanthropist and activist, became famous for surviving the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. Margaret Brown’s experiences on the ship are the most well-known portion of her story, but Starre-Kmiecik will give a complete picture of Brown’s life. Call the library at 440-255-8211, ext. 248, to register.


Tweens and teens are invited to Draw Your Life Story from 6 to 7:30 p.m. April 13 in the James Garfield Room at Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave. Youths will draw a page from their life story under the direction of graphic novelist Del Borovic. Borovic will demonstrate the concepts of graphic-novel and fusion art, leading a discussion on the workflow of creating a comic page, serving the story, determining what tools to use, and finding a style. She also will talk about the differences between Japanese and American Manga art, as well as the history of the medium. Tweens and teens will also be able to talk one-on-one after the workshop. Some supplies will be on hand, but you may bring along a sketchbook full of ideas. Registration is required: 440-255-8111, ext. 215 or 221.


The annual Spring Basket Auction and Book Sale sponsored by Friends of the Morley Library will be April 14 to 17 in the lower level of Morley Library. Auction baskets will be on display from 4 to 8 p.m. April 14, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 15 and 16. Tickets will be drawn at 2:45 p.m. April 17. Tickets sold at the circulation desk during library hours through April 13 will be five for $1. Tickets sold at the circulation desk during library hours April 14-16 will be four for $1. Tickets sold in the lower level conference rooms from 1:30 to 2:40 p.m. April 17 will be three for $1. Details: Friends of Morley Library at 440-252-3383.
The book sale will be:

• 5 to 8 p.m. April 14 (Preview Night for Friends; memberships available at door)
• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 15
• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 16
• 1:30 to 3 p.m. April 17

"Pop into Spring" for children ages 8 and older will be at 4 p.m. April 14 at Beachwood Library, 25501 Shaker Blvd. Author/illustrator Laurie Lazzaro Knowlton will show students how to "spring" into action while learning the basics of paper engineering and creating a pop-up book. Registration required: 216-831-6868 or cuyahogalibrary.org


Madison's Connection to Cartoons will be 7 p.m. April 14 at Madison Library, 6111 Middle Ridge Road. Frederick Burr Opper, creator of Happy Hooligan and Gaston & Alphonse, will be the topic of the program presented by John Vohlidka, a history instructor at Gannon University and editor of the Madison Times, a newsletter of the Madison Historical Society. The free program is part of Madison's Bicentennial Celebration and is sponsored by Friends of Madison Public Library and the Madison Historical Society.


Community Paper Shred Day will be 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 16 at Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave. The library is partnering with Xpress Shredding, which will do the free collection in the library staff auxiliary lot that day. Mentor residents, patrons and staff may drop off up to five boxes of paper, which will be loaded into a secure truck with an attendant and taken to Xpress' secure shredding facility. The service will be provided at no charge to Mentor Library or residents. Xpress also will provide coupons to patrons for an additional one box of shreddable paper brought directly to its facility on Tyler Boulevard.


A Pre-Robotics Workshop will be 10 to 11:30 a.m. April 16 at Beachwood Library, 25501 Shaker Blvd. The event for students ages 6 to 10 will allow youths to build and program robots using Lego Mindstorms system. Family and friends will be encouraged to watch the teams demonstrate their robots at the end of the workshop. Registration required: 216-831-6868 or cuyahogalibrary.org.

Coming up

The Friends of the Cleveland Public Library will have a Spring Used Book Sale April 18-21 at Cleveland Public Library, 525 Superior Ave. A large selection of books in all categories will be on sale, including an assortment of audio books and music CDs. A members-only preview will be 10 a.m. to noon April 18, and members should bring their cards for admittance. Those who are not members of the Friends may join at the door. The sale will be open to the public noon to 6 p.m. April 18 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 19 and 20. On April 21, a bag of books will be offered for $5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Details: 216-623-2821.


Mentor Public Library's Book Club for Men will meet at 7 p.m. April 18 in the Frances Cleveland Room at the main library, 8215 Mentor Ave. Join male readers to discuss books of interest with librarian Steve Haas. This month's selection is "To Kill the Irishman" by Rick Porrello. Details: 440-255-8811.


Welcome to Medicare will be 2 to 3 p.m. April 19 at Mentor Library, 8215 Mentor Ave. The introduction to Medicare for individuals who are new to Medicare are approaching Medicare age will be presented by Alyea Barajas of the Lake County Council on Aging. Details: 440-255-8811, ext. 215, or www.mentorpl.org.


Dan Coughlin, author of "Crazy, With the Papers to Prove It," will be in the area at the following times, dates and locations:

• 7 to 8 p.m. April 20, Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St. Details: 216-261-5300.
• 2 to 3 p.m. May 15, Chagrin Falls Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, 100 E. Orange St. Details: 440-247-3556.

Friends of the Mentor Library will have a book sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 22 at the main library, 8215 Mentor Ave. All proceeds benefit the library. Details: 440-255-8811, ext. 236.


The Twentysomething Readers Book Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. April 25 at Panera, 9587 Mentor Ave., Mentor, to discuss this month's selection "The Gargoyle" by Andrew Davidson. Discussion is with Mentor Library librarian Steve Haas.

Ongoing events

If you are 60 years old or older and a middle- or low-income taxpayer, you can get free tax assistance with an AARP tax aide volunteers. Call the Mentor Library at 440-255-8811, ext. 215, to make your appointment. Volunteers will be at the Main Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., from noon to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through April 12. Bring your completed tax forms from last year and valid I.D. to your appointment. AARP help is by appointment only.


Claire Zurbuch, a resident of Hambden Township for nearly four decades, is the season’s featured artist at “Art in the Mart” at the Middlefield Library, 16167 E. High St. Zurbuch is a photographer who specializes in film. His work features nature, landscapes and photos from a recent trip to Italy with his wife, Kay. Zurbuch will present “Photographing Italy” at 7 p.m. April 28. More than a travelogue, the free program will include tips on how to photograph a vacation. “Art in the Mart” is sponsored by the Geauga Council for Arts & Culture, whose mission is to bring art and people together. All of the items are for sale and the proceeds benefit the artist, the council and the Middlefield Library. Other Art in the Mart locations include the New York Deli, the Geauga YMCA and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. Those interested in purchasing a piece, can email artinthemart@gmail.com or call 440-537-3344.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

Does this woman know any fear?
As if her amazing recovery from a shark attack that cost her an arm weren't inspiration enough, Bethany Hamilton has added published author to her resume.
"Soul Surfer," the film chronicling her experience hits theater screens today. Check out the AP's review.

The 21-year-old now also has two books:

Here's a bit of info on the works according to a news release from the publisher: 

RISE ABOVE

 Courageous teen surfing star Bethany Hamilton encourages young girls everywhere in her own words inspired from the Bible in this devotional book (Zonderkidz; March 2011; 9.99). No subject—from boys to peer pressure and self-esteem—is left unnoticed as Bethany becomes a young girl’s confidante and champion with just a flip of each page. A never-before-seen tucked-in feature will give girls “inside scoop” on Bethany herself, in her own thoughtful words.

ASK BETHANY

Bethany answers your burning questions in Ask Bethany (Zonderkidz; March 2011; 9.99), her personal thank-you to readers who have been inspired by her story. In her signature honest yet comforting style, Bethany shares inspirational anecdotes from her own life to let readers know they are not alone in their struggles. Verses from the Bible add even more poignancy to Bethany’s heart-to-heart answers while readers surf the book.

- Tricia Ambrose

Thanks to Joe the Coupon Guy for the heads up about fantabulous deals to be (potentially) had this weekend at the Borders store in Mentor. I'm sure I'll be able to justify some purchases I might not have been able to at full price!
Get the skinny.
He's the man when it comes to finding deals in Northeast Ohio.

-Tricia Ambrose

I will admit that Ernest Hemingway is not my favorite writer. I appreciate his style; I have enjoyed the books of his I've read. But I've never felt the connection to character that defines my favorite works.
It's not him. It's me.
And I didn't feel any connection to the Hemingway I met in Paula McLain's "The Paris Wife." Not that McLain likely intended me to.
McLain, a Clevelander (woo-hoo!!!) has penned a fictionalized account of the relationship between Hemingway and his first wife Hadley Richardson.
This Hemingway is self-centered, ambitious and monogamy-challenged. His wife struggles to not lose herself in a marriage so dominated by his needs.
Hadley sees herself through her husband's eyes - whether it's what he thinks of how she dresses or styles her hair or her ability to discuss his work.

McLain has crafted a wonderful slice of life of Paris in the 1920s, with just enough real detail that it enhances her story rather than detracts from it. When I'm reading fiction based to a degree on fact, I like to get the sense that I'm learning a little about an era or a real person, not be hit with so much data so I feel like I'm reading a textbook. Paris Wife strikes the right notes.

This is among my favorite passages. In one graph, I get a sense of the city and learn a whole lot about both Ernest and Hadley.

It rained nonstop that spring, but even in the rain, Paris was Ernest's smorgasbord. He knew it all and lovde to walk through it at night especially, dropping into cafes to see who was there and who wasn't. He was recognizable everywhere with his long, unruly hair and tennis shoes and patched jacket, the quintessential Left bank writer. It was ironic to see him become the very sort of artist that had made him cringe two years before, and a little painful for me, too. I missed him and I wasn't sure I recognized him all the time, but I didn't want to hold him back. Not when things were finally beginning to hit for him.

And did I mention the author is from Cleveland! (And now I want to go back and re-read "A Farewell to Arms" and "The Sun Also Rises.")

Sit in with the Beauty and the Book book club as they chat with McLain.

- Tricia Ambrose

Natalie Sipula photographs some of the entries.

Natalie Sipula's winning entry in Burton Public Library's Edible Book Festival on Saturday was delicious and nutritious.

Like many of the other contestants, Natalie baked and decorated a cake for the event. But her cake stood out from the rest thanks to some interesting toppings — radicchio, carrots and green beans.

Read the rest of Bill DeBus' coverage of the event and check out the video.

I was especially intrigued by the Grapes of Math!

-Tricia Ambrose