Happy Birthday Margaret Atwood

Today, November 18, is Margaret Atwood's Birthday!

As the author of over 30 books, "Margaret Atwood's literary fiction often incorporates mythical/fairy tale images into past, present, and future worlds that remain recognizably modern. Her protagonists are primarily women (often artists or writers) in difficult situations but who are never passive victims. Graceful, polished prose describes complex characters and story lines. There is always more beneath the surface, which allows readers to appreciate her novels on a variety of levels. Atwood weaves serious feminist concerns into highly readable stories, leavened by wit and humor." (NoveList)

Here are a selection of Atwood's novels available at the library.

Happy Birthday Beatrix Potter!

Beatrix Potter, beloved author and illustrator of the Peter Rabbit stories for children, was born today, July 28, 1866.

Peter Rabbit and many other Beatrix Potter characters remain in the hearts of millions. However few know the woman behind the illustrations. Her life, including a romantic relationship with her publisher, Norman Warne, and her significant achievements outside of children's literature remain largely unknown. 

In Linda Lear’s biography Beatrix Potter: A Life in Nature, we get the life story of this incredible, funny, and independent woman. 

As one of the first female naturalists in the world, Potter brought the beauty and importance of nature back into the imagination. Through her art she sought to encourage conservation and change the world. 

With never before seen illustrations and details, Lear goes beyond our fascination with Potter as a writer/illustrator, and delves deeply into the life of a most unusual and gifted woman.

Happy 50th Birthday, Catch 22!

Catch-22, Joseph Heller's famous novel about the absurdity of war, is turning 50!  Inspired loosely by Heller's own experiences as a soldier in World War II, this book was published in 1961 to mixed reviews.  However, with public frustration building over the conflict in Vietnam, the book resonated with many readers.  Since then, the book has become so universally known that its title has entered our language: the phrase "catch-22" means a bureaucratic trap, or a situation from which there is no escape.  If you haven't yet read this classic novel, check it out from your Community Library today!

Happy Birthday, Winnie the Pooh!

One of literature's best-loved children's book characters turns 90 today: happy birthday, Winnie the Pooh! The New York Public Library (which holds Christopher Robin Milne's original Winnie the Pooh doll set) will be celebrating his birthday all month and is also accepting birthday cards on his behalf at:

Winnie the Pooh
c/o New York Public Library Children's Center
Stephen A. Schwartzman Building
Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street
New York, NY 10018-2788

But before you start writing, first be sure to rediscover & share Winnie the Pooh with a loved one right here at your own Community Library!

Hot Titles for July

Here are ten highly-anticipated books premiering this month; remember, you can place holds on books even before they're officially "out." For each book you read & review through the Summer Reading Club, you'll be entered to win the raffle prize of the week. A monthly "Coming Attractions" e-newsletter is available through your Community Library's NextReads service; sign up here.