The Atrium

The River Queen: A Memoir
by Mary Morris

After years of traveling the world and writing about it, author Mary Morris decided to return to the midwest and head down the Mississippi River in a houseboat with two river rats and a terrier. Here is the tale of her adventure, of the people she meets, and of the reconnecting path to her past.

Available now: NEW Biography Morris, Mary

Confessions: An Innocent Life In Communist China
by Kang Zhengguo

Here is the story of a man who was born to a wealthy family in China, grew up with a love for literature and freedom of expression, finds himself victim of Communist power, then is sent off to a prison camp, and later abandons his identity in order to live a quiet life under the Mao's regime.

Available now: NEW Biography Kang, Zhengguo

I told you I wasn't perfect
by Denny McLain with Eli Zaret

Scandal always seems to follow sports stardom. Denny McLain tells us how one becomes a Tigers' sensation and next a convicted felon.

Available now: NEW Biography McLain, Denny

Enter the Past Tense: My Life as a CIA Assassin
by Roland W. Haas

Haas's duties as a CIA covert agent took him to the Middle East, the former Soviet East Bloc, to the world of the Hell's Angels, and also to Guantanamo. Besides taking him around the world, his job also brought him to alcoholism and despair. This book tells what the real life of a CIA agent looks like.

Available now: NEW NEW Biography Haas, Roland W.

Posted by Ben at 07:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This month teens competed in Wii Tennis Tournaments at all GRPL branches. On Thursday, October 18, the Double Deuces just beat the All Stars and Team Shrug. These tournaments are a way to present content to patrons in the same way that the library adds value by presenting picture books at story time. The tournament format helps promote and build community connections, social competence, and peaceful conflict resolution.

The Wii Tennis Tournaments have been great fun -- better than it looks on the Wii TV commercial. Teens are bobbing and weaving. Don't get in their way or you'll get hit!

Caption: Bryce tries his hand at the Wii Tennis Tournament at the Main Library October 24 against Seymour Branch Manager, Asante Cain.

Jade and her Mom, Debbie, were a team against eight others who attended.

At Madison Square Branch, Tayonna takes time out from getting trampled at the Wii Tennis Tournament to pose.

Posted by Martin at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

If you enjoy the occasional close encounter of the supernatural kind, and are looking for something haunty to do this week -- besides pass out the obligatory candy to little ghosts and goblins -- check out GRPL's collection of haunted books. They're chock full of fun destinations for spooky experiences in Michigan, from haunted houses to lighthouses. There's even several Grand Rapids haunts with history.

A local story I found most interesting is about the house that sat on the site of the old Michigan Bell Building. Homeowner Warren Randall, who lost a leg in a 1908 railroad mishap, is said to have beaten his wife Virginia to death in the house in 1910 with his wooden leg, and then killed himself. Although the house is long gone, rumor has it that both Warren's and Virginia's ghosts still inhibit the current building, and if you listen closely you can hear the thump of Warren's wooden leg as he moves from room to room.

More stories about scary Michigan lore can be found here and here. You may even want to check out the first annual Paranormal Conference.

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kevin VanderWilp and his children Sophia (age 2) and Pyper (age 5) enjoyed the "Snazzy Snacks for Kids" program during The Celebration of the Book on Saturday, October 20 at the Main Library.

Kids got to create three different snacks - one sweet, one savory and a dipping snack. Representatives from the Better Life Institute presented some fun recipes from kids' cookbooks found in the Library's collections.

Posted by Martin at 03:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

With the support of the Ryerson Foundation, the GRHSC Department has added two services to help the visually impaired do research.

The first service is the Merlin LCD equipment, located in the microfilm reader area near the microfiche readers. This equipment enables individuals with low vision to read and view photos and materials that may be too small for them to see. There is a variety of magnification settings, and also 5 different color settings to help those who may have problems seeing certain colors.

The second service is ZoomText software, which is available on computer K-302. This allows magnification of word processing, email, and the Internet pages.

Thanks again to the Ryerson Library Foundation.

Posted by Martin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's not uncommon to see popular books made into movies, but an increasing number of books are also being made into television series. For example, novelist Jim Butcher's book series, about a magician/private eye who teams with a police detective to investigate supernatural crimes in Chicago, was developed into the Dresden Files.

I liked the Dresden series, and although it was popular the viewer ratings were low; needless to say the series won't return this year. But don't worry, there's plenty of other new and returning television series that got their start on bound printed pages. Here's a few:

Blood Ties based on books by Tanya Huff.

Bones based on novels by Kathy Reichs.

Dexter based on a book by Jeff Lindsay. (Catch up on the series here.)

Gossip Girl based on the books by Von Ziegesar.

Lipstick Jungle based on the novel by Candace Bushnell.

True Blood a series based on the Sookie Stackhouse vampire series by Charlaine Harris.

Women's Murder Club based on the Jim Patterson book series by the same name.

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

More patrons are finding the Early Literacy Station is a fun place to share time with a child. After waiting for mom to do her Internet work on the lower level, Rahkim, age 3, was rewarded with fun learning activities at the special station in the Youth Services area on the second floor.

Posted by Martin at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On October 13th, the Main Library hosted Salsa Saturday! Instructors from the Arthur Murray Dance Studio demonstrated basic salsa and merengue steps to a room full of eager participants. After the lessons, everyone was invited to try their new moves to the live sounds of Orquesta Sensacional!

All seemed to enjoy both. Some students were there to earn extra credit for Spanish class, some simply wanted to learn some Latin dance moves, and others came to show the skills they already have. Based on comments overheard among the crowd, we all had a great time.

Posted by Martin at 01:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Late Great USA : the coming merger with Mexico and Canada
Written by Jerome R. Corsir

Salute the Red, White y Azul, eh? The growing business and political partnerships between the United States, Canada and Mexico have some people worried that our sovereignty could erode if governmental consolidation continues to shape North America into a western version of the European Union. Corsi points out several examples of this impending notion, including our government's laissez-faire attitude toward illegal immigration, as foreshadowing to a day of our dissolved national identity.

Available now: NEW 333.17 C818L

The Bottom Billion : Why the Poorest Countries are Failing and What Can be Done About It
Written by Paul Collier

If you ever want to feel better about paying too much for cable or gas, read up on Collier's explanation of why fifty states in the world (and their combined population of over one billion) are quickly falling behind modern standards of acceptable living conditions. Whereas traditional political and economic development theories have been put to use to foster growth in many nations, these concepts such as globalization and aid programs only worsen the already corrupt regimes ruling so many countries. To combat these political and military realities, Collier pleads for new thinking from the G8 and other international policy makers as the only option to reverse this devolution of societies.

Available now: NEW 338.9009172 C69b

One Red Paperclip : or how an ordinary man achieved his dreams with the help of a simple office supply
Kyle MacDonald

I remember reading about this kid in Canada who had the wish of obtaining a free house through a series of trades stemming from a giant red paperclip. At the time, he had secured himself a snowmobile. Well, as it turned out, the kid incredulously got his wish. This story of an average guy utilizing our obsessions of publicity and online trading to gain extraordinary results is definitely worth reading and learning about.

Available now: NEW 381.142 M145oL

Mobs, Messiahs, and Markets : surviving the public spectacle in finance and politics
William Bonner & Lila Rajiva

Here, Bonner and Rajiva highlight the ignorance and misdirection of the masses ranging from naivety to absurdity. After one realizes this byproduct of human society, the authors argue that one can become more successful in making financial and political decisions by not heeding to every passing fancy. Noting that this form of human behavior is nothing new, I am reminded of Charles Mackay's Extraordinary Popular Delusion & the Madness of Crowds written back in 1841. It can be disheartening to see that some things never do change. Hopefully with some insight, one does not have to be victimized by this phenomena.

Available now: NEW 658.473 B643m

Posted by Matt at 10:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed during the month of October. The statistic “one in eight” is often cited as a lifetime risk of diagnosis for women.

Thousands of people took part in the recent 10th anniversary Race for the Cure sponsored by the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, evidence of how many lives are touched by breast cancer; perhaps yours is one of them. Another walk, sponsored by the American Cancer Society, is being held on Saturday, October 20 and is open for participants.

At GRPL we have put together an online resource guide to provide access to books, videos, pamphlets, and web sites, as well as to local and national organizations dealing with breast cancer. Let us know if you find this helpful. If you happen to be in the Main Library downtown during October, stop by the breast cancer display on 1K where we have books to check out and free informational items.

Posted by Jane at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Your Rights in the Workplace
Written by Barbara Kate Repair

Another excellent book in the Nolo legal guides universe. Subjects include: sexual harassment, Family and Medical Leave Act, workers' compensation, age discrimination, surveillance, OSHA, employment at will, disabilities, and more.

Available now: NEW 796.3576408996 Ir8f

Presidential Power: Unchecked and Unbalanced
Written by Matthew Crenson and Benjamin Ginsberg

Has presidential power increased to the point of threatening democracy itself? The authors examine the average citizen's lack of participation in the political process, and how this abdication of personal responsibility has led to a power vacuum with profound constitutional consequences.

Available now: NEW 352.2380973

What Do You Do When Your Parents Live Forever? A Practical Guide to Caring for the Elderly
Written by Dan and Lavinia Cohn-Sherbok

The authors offer helpful ideas to support elder caregivers.

Available now: NEW 363.6 C661w

Only Connect: The Way to Save Our Schools
Written by Rudy Crew

Dr. Crew offers a simple, but seriously considered plan to revamp our public school system to compete globally, and to put the pride of accomplishment back into our communities.

Available now: NEW 371.0109 C867o

The Last Human: A Guide to 22 Species of Extinct Humans
Written by Esteban Sarmiento

A blending of science and art produced this intriguing “field guide” to our lost ancestors.
The illustrations and text are informative and haunting with their glimpse into our prehistoric times.
American Library Association reviewers call this one a “must read!”

Available now: New 569.2 Sa74L

Posted by Lisa at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Come celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with us on Saturday, October 13th at 1:30, with our Salsa Saturday program.

Two instructors from Arthur Murray dance studio will teach salsa as well as another Latin dances. After the free 1-hour dance lesson, Orquestra Sensacional will play some fantastic music so you can practice your new Latin moves!

Don't miss out on the fun. Refreshments will be served.

Posted by Mary at 02:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amanda Brown and her daughter, Zoe (age 3) and niece, Emma Walker (age 4), are having fun with the new Early Literacy Station in the Youth Services Department at the Main Library.

For ages 2 - 8, the station contains 26 different programs with some in Spanish. Included are titles such as Green Eggs and Ham, SpongeBob Typing, Stellaluna, Reader Rabbit Math, Kidspiration, Jumpstart Advanced Kindergarten, Krazy ArtRoom, and much more!

Posted by Martin at 08:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A chess team is forming at Madison Square Branch Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you are interested in joining come to the branch on Thursdays at 4:00 p.m.

We've been having so much fun!!!

Posted by Martin at 04:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

My favorite living director, Wes Anderson, just released (well, limited released) his newest film, The Darjeeling Limited, which follows three American brothers trying to reconnect while traveling across India. Known for recasting actors for most of his characters (Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Luke Wilson, Jason Schwartzman and Anjelica Huston among others), Anderson's style of fractured characters in awkward circumstance amid whimsical songs and soothing cinematography has developed a healthy following. Try checking out some of his earlier works at the library like Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.

In addition to his film directing, the soundtracks of Anderson's films should not go unnoticed. The most memorable album for me has been Seu Jorge's The Life Aquatic Studio Sessions. In it Jorge, who also has a minor role in the movie, covers various David Bowie classics with an acoustic guitar and Portuguese lyrics.

As for my favorite director? That would be Stanley Kubrick, in case you were wondering.

Posted by Matt at 06:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Eighth Grade Bites
Written by Heather Brewer

“Could you get me O positive this time? That’s my favorite." Vlad's got it pretty easy for a half-vampire. Since his parents died years ago in a mysterious fire, he's lived with his aunt, a nurse who can easily keep up a regular supply of blood for him. She and Vlad's best friend Henry are the only ones who understand what he is, and Vlad manages to live a mostly normal life. Events turn suspicious, however, when his English teacher goes missing, and the substitute starts asking him curious questions. Is Vlad in danger of being exposed?

Available now in the New Teen Fiction area.
Teen Fiction Brewer

Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac
Written by Gabrielle Zevin

Naomi Porter fell. It was an accident, but she's lost all of her memories of the last four years. Now Naomi's got a lot of catching up to do. Some things makes sense. Her best friend, for example, feels "comfortable and broken-in like favorite jeans." Other things are puzzling or downright distressing. She feels no connection to her jock boyfriend Ace, yet feels drawn to a new boy named James. Her parents have divorced, she has a half-sister she's never met, and she finds birth control pills in her drawer. Naomi's facing a rare chance to reassess her life and maybe make some important changes.

Available now in the New Teen Fiction area.
Teen Fiction Zevin

Ethan Suspended
Written by Pamela Ehrenberg

Suspended from his suburban Philadelphia junior high, Ethan is sent by his soon-to-be-divorced mother to live with his grandparents in Washington, D.C., where he quickly learns what it's like to be alone. His grandparents are obsessive and irritating, and Ethan is one of the only white kids in his black and Latino dominated new school. Far away is the world full of IM, cable, and malls that Ethan knows and loves. Slowly he makes some friends, falls for a girl named Kameka, joins the jazz band, and begins to learn respect for his grandparents and their decision to stay in their neighborhood.

Available now in the New Teen fiction area.
Teen Fiction Ehrenberg

Posted by Kolene at 04:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wondering what your neighbors are reading? Here are the top ten titles on hold for GRPL patrons as of October 1st:

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich
The Quickie by James Patterson
You've Been Warned by James Patterson
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult
Play Dirty by Sandra Brown
Summer by Karen Kingsbury
The 6th target by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
High Noon by Nora Roberts
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)