Tulsa
event guide
INSIDE! February 2014
Book Review 4 6 11
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 4
F R E E
NEW AND OF INTEREST
C H E C K
Death Overdue If books could kill Page 2
I T
Traveling Sprinkler
O U T
The Unseemly Education of Anne Merchant
Paul Chowder sings the blues Page 4
What would you do to achieve your greatest desire? Page 8
All About Love By Susan L. Taylor Urban Books, $19.95, 212 pages Meet Susan L. Taylor on Feb. 8 at Rudisill Regional Library. See Page 16 for details.
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Susan Taylor is a unique, iconic personality whose superior contributions to the literary world are immeasurable. Editor-in- chief of Essence magazine for 19 years, Taylor was once described by American Libraries as “the most influential black woman in journalism today.” In All About Love, Taylor opens her heart and her life to scrutiny, sharing a painful past, mistake, regrets and growth opportunities. During her years with Essence, Taylor wrote several columns designed to uplift others. Full of anecdotes, bits of wisdom and personal insights, All
About Love reads like a journal and is worthy of use as a daily inspirational guide. Within the many chapters, we receive wise counsel, on par with contemporary spiritual gurus such as Maya Angelou, Iyanla Vanzant and, yes, Oprah. In public, Taylor is a deeply engrossing speaker, whose open style and confident delivery leave audiences spellbound. In writing, her warm personality shines, as she helps us to understand and commit to mentoring others, especially the young. In See All About Love, cont’d on page 6
Jim Henson: The Biography A worthy tribute to a true icon Page 12
Dangerous Curves Ahead Romance for the average woman Page 15
48 Reviews INSIDE!
Book Reviews Category
Mystery SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Reel Stuff By Don Bruns Oceanview Publishing, $26.95, 295 pages Check this out! Reel Stuff is another contribution to the Stuff series by the excellent Don Bruns. Yet again we have laidback storytelling in service to a rather pleasing mystery to unravel. Let’s start off with a short description of the initial death. A television series is being shot in Miami. A big star is doing a cameo appearance and he likes to do his own stunts. Unfortunately, he appears to jump at the wrong point on the scaffolding and falls to the ground some distance from the inflatable supposed to catch him. How can this be a murder? Of course the answer to this is something of a cheat…how could it be otherwise? But it sets the tone which is ingenuity filtered through a very human story of three people trying to make something of their lives, who solve murder mysteries. In this case, we get to look around Los Angeles and the system that sucks up people of talent and spits most of them back out again. With millions to play for when a star hits the jackpot, it’s hardly surprising murder should be on some people’s agenda. The result here is highly entertaining, although it does end on a slightly bittersweet moment. Reviewed by David Marshall Once Upon a Lie By Maggie Barbieri MInotaur, $24.99, 304 pages Check this out! Once Upon a Lie is a completely engrossing story of a woman who’s moving through life one day at a time. Her father is slipping into Alzheimer’s and occasionally goes AWOL from the care home. Her marriage collapsed when the man she had loved traded her in for a newer model, leaving her with two daughters to bring up. One is ev-
ery parent’s dream - hard working and comple te l y dedicated to opt i m i z i ng her GPA so she can get away from this town. The other is the more usual rebellious teen and her business is only marginally successful. Then someone murders her cousin. Unfortunately, her father was missing from the home and becomes a suspect. This adds to her burden as she tries to find a way in which to defend him when he can’t remember what he was doing. Perhaps because she’s more usually sensitive, she also notices an abusive husband and father in the neighborhood. She becomes obsessed by the idea of intervening. Life grows increasingly stressful as the police step up the pressure on her father. What can she do to protect the ones she loves? The answer is intense and satisfying. Reviewed by David Marshall Enigma of China: An Inspector Chen Novel By Qiu Xiaolong St. Martin’s, $25.99, 288 pages Check this out! Enigma of China by Qiu Xiaolong is a fascinating political study of the dilemmas of a modestly senior police officer tasked with o ve r s e e i n g the investigation of what’s being presented as a suicide. Set in Shanghai, a local official has been outed by netizens as probably corrupt. Given this loss of face, it’s not surprising he should kill himself, but
the death is remarkably convenient for everyone else who might be on the take. The choice is whether to give the result the political masters in Shanghai want to hear, or recognize Beijing’s interest in being seen to take action against corruption in all Chinese provinces. This remains largely academic for our hero until his colleague working on the case is killed in a hit-and-run. Now if only to protect the reputation of his colleague and ensure his family receive the pension to which they are entitled, he must assume the responsibility for the investigation. What he discovers and how he resolves the problem of what to report to whom, are most elegantly described. Without being overly judgmental about Chinese culture, we’re offered a chance to see how another society reacts to whistleblowers who embarrass those in power. Reviewed by David Marshall Death Overdue (Librarian Mysteries) By Mary Lou Kirwin Gallery Books, $15.00, 256 pages Check this out! Librarian Karen Nash is sorting books in Caldwell Perkins’s library, envisioning their plans to sell his B and B and open a bookshop. Maybe marry. A surprise visit from ex-girlfriend Sally changes everything. Sally ran out on Caldwell seven years ago. Returning with her new boyfriend, she wants to
reclaim the B and B. Sally’s sister, Penelope, arrives because Sally asked her to meet her in London for dinner—but they are not close. Brenda, the young live-in housekeeper, is happy Sally has returned; Sally taught her everything about hair, nails, style. Bookcollector, Bruce, can’t wait to get into the library and see Caldwell’s latest acquisition. That night Karen awakens to a loud crash from the library. The library door is open. A huge bookshelf has fallen on Sally. Sally is dead. Was it an accident? This book was such a romp! All the characters have their own agenda. Karen, with her offbeat humor, is a likable protagonist/ sleuth while navigating British law enforcement, her own jealousy, and caution about her relationship with Caldwell, and suspicions about who did what and why. This is a good mystery with a satisfying resolution, and plenty of chuckles along the way. Reviewed by Elizabeth Varadan
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Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 2
Tulsa
Book Review
IN THIS ISSUE Mystery.......................................................... 2
Tulsa City-County Library 400 Civic Center Tulsa, Oklahoma 74103 Ph. (918) 549-7323 EDITOR IN CHIEF Ross Rojek ross@1776productions.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT James Rasmussen COPY EDITORS Annie Peters Gretchen Wagner Amy Simko Holly Scudero Audrey Curtis Alex Masri Do Cathy Carmode Lim Christie Spurlock
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Alaa Shabouni Audrey Curtis Christopher Hayden Christie Spurlock
WEBSITE TulsaBookReview.com
Fiction........................................................ 4, 5 Kids’ Books..................................................... 6 Tween Reads................................................... 7 Picture Books................................................. 7 Teen Scene...................................................... 8 Mind & Body Fitness....................................... 9 Home, Garden & DIY.................................... 10 Cookbooks.................................................... 11 Biography & Memoir.................................... 12 History & Current Events............................. 13 Science Fiction.............................................. 14
FROM THE PUBLISHER We are blessed to live in a state that is rich in diversity with a strong Native American heritage, an established African-American community and a growing Hispanic population. As a metropolitan area, Tulsa is home to many other ethnic and cultural communities too. Living at an epicenter of such diversity allows for all of our lives to be richer. This not only provides us tools to broaden our horizons, but also a wide array of festivals, foods and literary events. Over the next few weeks, Tulsa City-County Library will hold two such events. One takes place on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 10 a.m. at the Rudisill Regional Library, 1520 N. Hartford. On this date the library’s African-American Resource Center will award its biennial Sankofa Freedom Award to Susan L. Taylor who served as editor-in-chief of Essence magazine for two decades. American Libraries magazine once referred to Taylor as “the most influential black woman in journalism today.” Essence is read by over 1.5 million African-American women every month. This event also befits February’s celebration of Black History Month. On March 1, the library’s American Indian Resource Center will induct Ruthe Blalock Jones into the Circle of Honor during a special presentation at 10:30 a.m. at the Hardesty Regional Library in Connor’s Cove, 8316 E. 93rd St. Blalock Jones is a world-renowned artist and director emeritus/associate professor of art at Bacone College. Her work focuses on traditional American Indian ceremonial and social events. Both honorees are inspirational, proving that libraries are more than warehouses for books – they also change lives! We hope you will be able to join us for these events. Warmest regards,
Fantasy......................................................... 14
The Tulsa Book Review is published monthly by 1776 Productions, LLC. The opinions expressed in these pages are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Tulsa Book Review or 1776 Productions advertisers. All images are copyrighted by their respective copyright holders. All words ©2014, LLC.
1776 Productions,
Romance....................................................... 15
Gary Shaffer Tulsa City-County Library CEO
Historical Fiction.......................................... 15
Coming Up!
Sankofa Freedom Award............................... 16
Tulsa City-County Library will join thousands of libraries and schools across the country in celebrating Teen Tech Week, March 9-15. This year’s theme is “DIY @ your library.” Teen Tech Week encourages teens to take advantage of the technology at libraries for education and recreation. At TCCL, we celebrate Teen Tech Week the entire month of March. Visit our teen website at http:// teens.tulsalibrary.org for related events and more details.
Book Reviews Category
Fiction SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Wolves of Midwinter: The Wolf Gift Chronicles By Anne Rice Knopf, $25.95, 400 pages Check this out! Wolves of Midwinter by Anne Rice is the second in The Wolf Gift Chronicles. It continues the story began in the first book in the series, The Wolf Gift. It’s Yuletide at Nideck Point, the grand mansion in Northern California. And young Ruben Golding is preparing for his first Christmas as Morphenkind. It promises to be an experience such as he’s never seen before. Anne Rice has offered up yet another lovely book, returning to her roots in the supernatural. This intriguing and lush book measures up to its praise, coming across as sumptuous in detail and graceful in its prose. Yet reader should be warned: if you, like this hapless reviewer, think to jump right into this story without reading the first book, you will be hopelessly lost. The characters and plot have all been well-established, and there isn’t much room for back story to catch up uniformed readers. This is definitely not a series that can be read out of order. So, please, do yourself a favor and don’t shortchange yourself or Ms. Rice: read The Wolf Gift first. Reviewed by Axie Barclay The Thinking Woman’s Guide to Real Magic By Emily Croy Barker Pamela Dorman Books, $27.95, 576 pages Check this out! The Thinking Woman’s Guide to Real Magic opens as graduate student Nora Fischer’s life slowly goes down the toilet. Her boyfriend broke up with her and is marrying another woman, on the same day they’d set for their wedding; her dissertation has
ground to a halt; her thesis advisor is exasperated with her nonprogress; and she has a mouse stuck in a trap in her kitchen. When she gets lost walking in the mountains, she thinks things can’t get any worse. However, Nora has inadvertently wandered through a portal into another world, where she’s enchanted by magic and finds herself married to man who is handsome by night but literally turns into a monster by day. It isn’t until Nora is rescued from the enchantment and becomes a magician’s apprentice that the real story begins. Emily Croy Barker’s novel starts slow— but it needs to. It unfolds rather than slapping you in the face like a Di Vinci Code thriller. Barker restrained herself from using clichéd plot elements and penned a story that is individual and unfolds exactly the way that it should. It’s reminiscent of The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield as far as pacing and has a similar tone to Lev Grossman’s The Magicians, with less sarcasm. Those books are also ones that while something is always going on, they stroll along as opposed to careen, but readers who enjoyed those novels will likely think this one just as enjoyable. Reviewed by Axie Barclay American Tropic By Thomas Sanchez Vintage, $15.00, 224 pages Check this out! Set in Key West, Florida, this mystery investigates a string of murders carried out by a self-proclaimed righteous assassin called Bizango. The mysterious serial killer dresses in a rubber skeletal body suit and targets individuals who have committed some wrongdoing. However, Bizango targets only those who are perpetrating ecological damage. As citizens become scared, the search
for Bizango becomes a race against time to stop the killings and reinstate safety to Key West in time for the big, annual Fantasy Parade. One of my favorite aspects of this novel is the tightly knit community of interesting characters. One of the main characters, Luz, is the head detective on the Bizango case and also a family-oriented woman who would do anything to protect her daughters and her life partner, Joan. There is also Noah, an environmentalist who hosts a radio show called pirate-radio on a boat named Noah’s Lark in international waters outside of Key West jurisdiction. The small cast of characters keeps the story engaging and the characters likeable. Exciting and an advocate for environmental issues, Thomas Sanchez writes with a style that separates his work from a traditional murder mystery. Told in a series of vignettes, it is fun following the mystery of Bizango in American Tropic. Reviewed by Lenna Stites
Traveling Sprinkler: A Novel By Nicholson Baker Blue Rider Press, $26.95, 304 pages Check this out! P a u l Chowder, the poet-hero of Nicholson Baker’s much-admired novel The Anthologist, returns in Traveling Sprinkler on the cusp of his fiftyfifth birthday. Reeling from a painful breakup with his girlfriend, Roz, who is seeing someone new, Paul feels the anxiety and excitement of possibly imminent change. Though his thoughts return again and again to Roz, he tries valiantly to move on. He buys himself a guitar so he can better pursue his newest artistic endeavor, songwriting, which he has chosen to focus on instead of poetry. There is, he finds, much to sing about, and much meaning to be found in music past and present. Onward he goes through his days: ruminating on drone strikes, feeding his neighbor’s chickens, working out at Planet Fitness, attending Quaker meetings, re-
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Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 4
Book Reviews membering his training in the bassoon, and pondering the meaning and purpose of his life. Music, both his own and others’, is his constant companion. Paul’s rambling digressions make for a tedious and frustrating journey at times, but his endless searching is ultimately quirkily, humorously endearing. Reviewed by Margo Orlando Littell The Dogs of Christmas By W. Bruce Cameron Forge Books, $15.99, 240 pages Check this out! A sensitive geek guy who knows absolutely nothing about dogs gets a German Shepherd thrust upon him — a pregnant one on the verge of having puppies. Isolated in the rural community, he calls the vet, but isn’t able to bring the dog in until Monday. He buys food and half-adozen toys, and provides the dog a blanket, pillow and a spot next to his bed, where he can watch her. He calls the local rescue center to ask for help. A compassionate expert on dogs, the director shows up to his house bringing vitamins for the dog. When the hopeless neophyte on dog care meets the expert, the two launch their heyday of a relationship. A delightfully humorous love story where the geek, smitten by this fascinating, much more experienced woman, makes attempts at a romantic relationship. The story is complete with a winter storm that knocks out the electricity, a fireplace that is the pup’s only warmth, and a glimpse into each of the five pup’s personalities and travails. A fun, heart-warming read for a cold winter day. Reviewed by Susan Roberts The Death of Bees: A Novel By Lisa O’Donnell Harper Perennial, $14.99, 336 pages Check this out! On Christmas Eve 2010, fifteen-yearold Marnie Doyle buries both her parents with a shovel in her backyard. Her mother smothered her father with a pillow, and proceeded to hang herself in a shed outside their home, but Marnie and her younger sister Nelly feel no sadness. All they want is to escape “the
Fiction system,” so they hide their parents’ bodies and act as though they are on vacation. An on-looking neighbor, Lennie, sees the girls living alone and invites them to his home. But even with Lennie’s protection, can Marnie and Nelly evade the ghosts of their past? The Death of Bees is unlike any novel I have ever read. Though the characters were a little too precocious and eccentric to be realistic, the story is told with raw honesty, which makes it both intriguing and unsettling. Plot wise, it isn’t the most compelling, but the tone and the details O’Donnell uses throughout the novel piqued my interest, which is why I’m giving it four stars instead of three. Reviewed by Bailey Tulloch Scent of Darkness (Vintage Contemporaries) By Margot Berwin Vintage, $16.95, 240 pages Check this out! Her grandmother Louise was the closest family Evangeline had, closer even than her mother. Louise was mysterious, and her greatest ability was the making of perfumes. When Louise died, she left Evangeline her house and a mysterious bottle: a scent made exclusively for her, with a warning to not use unless she was ready for everything in her life to change. And when Evangeline placed a drop on her neck, everything truly did change. Suddenly everyone was attracted to her: people followed her in restaurants and down the street, neighbors want to get to know her, and two men fall completely in love with her. One is good and one is evil, and Evangeline must struggle with her own morals and her grandmother’s gift in order to figure her life back out. Scent of Darkness is a novel that slowly drags you under; before you realize it, you are deeply entwined in Evangeline’s thoughts and needs, and it’s hard to come up for air until you know what’s going to happen next. This one is well-written and hard to put down. Reviewed by Holly Scudero
In 2004, Carolina Sparrow works for an elite law firm writing briefs. She measures her life in billable hours and rarely leaves the office. Her life is her work until she is assigned a case arguing for reparations for the ancestors of slaves. Her research brings her to Josephine, and the details of the house girl’s life act as an inspiration for Lina to live more fully. With The House Girl, Conklin raises the question, who is free? It seems that each character struggles with a set of metaphorical shackles. Conklin has crafted sympathetic and complex characters whose sufferings and struggles make the question concrete. Josephine’s complicated relationship with her mistress, an unhappy woman dying of cancer who dotes on the slave, was particularly compelling. Should Josephine sympathize with her captor? Is her mistress free? Conklin expertly shifts between past and present to create an entertaining and thought-provoking novel. Reviewed by Tammy McCartney
Sense & Sensibility By Joanna Trollope Harper, $25.99, 368 pages Check this out! Jane Austen fans will recognize the plot of Trollope’s Sense & Sensibility. Romantic, utterly i mpr a c t ic a l Belle and her three beautiful daughters are soon to be homeless after the death of the family’s patriarch. Belle’s stepson John and his horrible wife have inherited Norland, and John, ignoring his deathbed promise to take care of the women, has asked them to leave. Luckily, a distant relation hears of the family’s plight and offers them a cottage in the country. The three sisters – practical Elinor, impetuous Marianne, and teen-aged Margaret – find themselves beholden to their benefactor and struggling to adapt to the family’s reduced circumstances. In the meantime, the older See Sense, cont’d on page 7
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The House Girl By Tara Conklin William Morrow Paperbacks, $14.99, 400 pages Check this out! On the morning in 1852 that Master hits seventeen-year-old Josephine, she decides she’s had enough. She’s tired of owning nothing (not even herself), tired of taking orders, tired of the daily fear, and just tired. So she plans to run, taking Missus’s boots, a bundle of food, and three of her pieces of art. Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 5
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Book Reviews Category
Kids’ Books SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Hard Luck: Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Bk 8 By Jeff Kinney Amulet Books, $13.95, 224 pages Check this out! Greg has a lot going on in his life. His best friend, Rowley, has a new girlfriend and suddenly has no time at all for Greg. That means Greg has to deal with a lot that Rowley used to take care of for him: the Rottweiler Rebel on the way to and from school, carrying all those heavy textbooks that Rowley used to carry for him, and getting past the Mingo clan without Rowley’s protection. Rowley even deserted the boys’ table in the cafeteria for the couples’ table. It’s just as well. Greg doesn’t like seeing Rowley and his girlfriend together anyway. Besides school/friend issues, Greg finds out his mother’s family is coming for Easter. There goes a stress-free spring break. Greg’s relatives are a pretty strange bunch. It’s going to be a long week, but Greg deals with it by spending all his time in the bathroom. Things get out of hand, and Greg’s father sends the relatives packing. Greg finds a Magic 8 Ball in his brother’s room and uses it to make his decisions. This is the eighth book in the series, but Jeff Kinney has kept it fresh and fun. Kids will love this latest addition. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck Charlie the Ranch Dog: Charlie’s Snow Day (I Can Read Book 1) By Ree Drummond, Diane deGroat (illustrator) Harper, $16.99, 32 pages Check this out! Charlie wakes up one day, and things on the ranch are different. Everything is covered in a thick blanket of fresh snow. Worried he will have to stay in all day, Charlie is happy to find Mama on the front porch, ready to go
out into the new snow. Walter and Charlie romp through the snow following Mama to the big hill. Sister is already way at the top. The whole family is ready for a great day of sledding and playing in the snow. But soon Charlie is cold, wet, and tired. Then Walter is missing! Can Charlie find Walter? Ree Drummond and Diane deGroat have a charming franchise with the many Charlie the Ranch Dog books. This one will not disappoint. The writing is as fresh as the snow and the illustrations are cute and fun. Emerging readers will build their reading skills and their pride with this perfect early reader. There are good challenge words and a variety of sentence structures all wrapped in a good story. The youngest of readers will love this sweet little book. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck The Case of the Time-Capsule Bandit (Randi Rhodes, Ninja Detective) By Octavia Spencer Simon & Schuster, $16.99, 224 pages Check this out! S t i l l coming to terms with her mother’s death, young Randi Rhodes throws herself into her amateur detective work, defending her neighborhood from flower thieves and other petty criminals. But when she and her father move to the
sleepy mountain town of Deer Creek, Randi is despondent. That is, until the town’s time capsule is stolen just days before an important town event. Can Randi recover the time capsule and save the day? A feisty and immensely capable young woman in the vein of Nancy Drew, Randi Rhodes is a terrific, believable character, biased and enthusiastic as only a tween can be. Between her rougher edges and her lovable spirit, Randi proves an amiable centerpiece for a two-fold small-town mystery. Spencer populates the story with the usual cast of country onlookers and idiosyncratic ne’er-do-wells, but manages to ground many of them in very real-world problems and stories, adding a rich sense of tension to the mystery. There are major consequences looming, and the reader never forgets that, even while having fun. The Case of the Time-Capsule Bandit, complete with ninja missions for readers to complete, is a marvelous launchpad for enjoyable, worthwhile stories to come. Reviewed by Glenn Dallas Cathedral: The Story of Its Construction, Revised and in Full Color By David Macaulay HMH Books for Young Readers, $19.99, 80 pages Check this out! Macaulay’s masterful panoramas come to revivified animation in his re-renditions of his famous line drawings, this time in full color. With a degree in architectural design, he is uniquely suited to the task of creating the fictional but stunningly lifelike cathedral of this book. The detailed, meticulously accurate depictions for which he has been known and loved since the early seventies are exhibited to their full advantage in his newest book. Sweeping vistas and cinematic angles give us dizzying views of spires, flying buttresses and city rooftops as we watch the building come to life by the dedicated, worshipful hands of an entire community. Key details of construction methods of the times are included - webbing and lagging in the roof, early machines such as the windlass, aisles and choirs and piers in the floor plan, give the reader a working knowledge of how a cathedral would have been designed and constructed. It also makes the interested student conversant when they visit their first cathedral! Macaulay’s work can’t be beat in the world of architectural and historical illustration, and enhanced with the breath of color, the images come to life in a whole new, ancient way. Reviewed by Andrea Huehnerhoff
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 6
All About Love, cont’d from Cover addressing the purpose of the book, Taylor states: “The writings included here are the works that resonate most with me. The ones that best illuminate how life is always working to support our highest and greatest good.” The quotes within the chapters are numerous and compelling, and a few are listed below: On life lessons: “No matter how difficult the situation, our question must always be as Rumi, the 13th century mystic and one of my favorite poets, asks: ‘What has this new arrival, sent by my guide from beyond, come to teach me?’ When discomfort arrives, invite it in and ask what it has come to teach you. Lessons keep showing up in our lives, and when we don’t learn them easily, they get harder. The most important lesson I have learned is we must give ourselves to ourselves before we give ourselves away. Whether it’s headache or heartache, pain is information. Not every wanderer is lost.” Taylor admonishes us to “respect the authority of our own soul.” Regarding fear, Taylor writes: “Fear is lethal. It kills hope and happiness, makes us its plaything. And like a fungus, it flourishes in the dark. The truth our soul already knows. When we forget who we are, we forfeit our dreams and lose sight of what we came to earth to do.” The book is by no means exclusive to women, and men will enjoy and be encouraged by Taylor’s wise counsel. But she does speak to women in many authentic and nourishing ways. One notable quote is: “We women are being called to reenchant the world.” To reenchant the world – the idea seems mystical, yet thought-provoking in its own right. It isn’t that the information within the articles is new. It’s that the words seem to appear on the page in such a way as to invite deeper thought and consideration of life’s issues. The reader is invited to ask purposeful questions about life’s struggles, disappointments and triumphs. All About Love is an invitation to live in full connection with our whole selves. It is a reminder of the stakes inherent to our journey toward wholeness and unity with others. Reviewed by Alicia M. H. Latimer
Book Reviews Category
Category
Tween Reads Picture Books SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Trash Can Days: A Middle School Saga By Teddy Steinkellner Disney-Hyperion, $16.99, 352 pages Check this out! Trash Can Days: A Middle School Saga will be enjoyed by EVERYONE!! No matter what gender, status, or age you are, this book will definitely make it to your favorites list. The book is narrated by four middle schoolers: Jake Schwartz, Danny Urbine, Ashley Schwartz (Jake’s sister), and Dorothy Wu. Danny’s parents are Jake’s gardeners and cleaners, so Jake and Danny’s families live together in Jake’s mansion. Living together for so long, Jake and Danny are the best of best friends. But ever since they started middle school, the two boys haven’t been as close. Danny’s in the cool crowd now and he doesn’t want to associated with the loser Jake. Jake tries to play it cool, but he really misses Danny. Ashley’s losing all her friends because of a terrible Facebook rumor, and Dorothy is - well, Dorothy. The girl who has really bad grades, writes love stories, and is always in her own fantasy world. All four are trying to find out where they belong in life. Danny and Ashley have to choose between what’s right and what’s the ‘cool thing’ to do. Jake and Dorothy have to dodge bullying and avoid being stuck in trash cans. But all the characters have one thing in common: thoughts about middle school that readers will definitely be able to relate to. This book is very well written and will appeal to all. The characters are well rounded and dynamic, but also stereotypical. There’s the nerd, the scary gangster dude, the wanna-be popular girl, and the anime loving Asian girl. The thoughts the characters express about middle school are completely true and relatable. The book is not written in the usual format. Throughout the chap-
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ters, the author has woven in Facebook chats, school newspapers, and gossip blog excerpts. I loved reading this book and definitely recommend it to someone who wants a hilarious and true novel! Reviewed by Sarah Guller Serafina’s Promise By Ann E. Burg Scholastic Press, $16.99, 304 pages Check this out! Serafina is an elevenyear-old Haitian girl who dreams of becoming a doctor. She lives in a little shack with her parents and grandmother. She has never been to school because there is no money for that, but after meeting a lady doctor serving the poor in Haiti, Serafina is sure she has found her calling. Her best friend, Julie Marie, shares Serafina’s dream. It will be nearly impossible since she has to fetch water and help her mother and grandmother, especially since her mother is pregnant. All the other babies have died, and they have so much hope for this coming baby. Life is difficult for this family, but they all work hard and have hopes and dreams. A terrible storm brings a flood, and their little house is washed away. Serafina thinks her dream may have washed away with it. But when they build another house, Papa finds a place they can have a garden to make extra money. Serafina starts school, but a huge earthquake hits. Anne E. Burg has written a charming story in verse that tells a powerful story. Young girls will especially love this book. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
Tulip Loves Rex By Alyssa Satin Capucilli, Sarah Massini (illustrator) Katherine Tegen Books, $17.99, 32 pages Check this out! This colorful children’s book charms the reader with illustrations that b e aut i f u l l y capture the engaging text by Alyssa Satin Capucilli. Illustrator Sarah Massini uses swaths of soft color and sparingly-applied dark lines to bring to life Tulip and Rex - a doggie she meets in the park. Tulip is a little girl who expresses her joy by twirling and whirling from early morning until bedtime. Her parents are amazed by their daughter. One day the three of them go for a walk to the park. In the park Tulip sees a big yellow dog with a red tag hanging from his collar announcing that his name is Rex and that he is not like other dogs. Rex doesn’t respond when Tulip tries playing the usual games that dogs respond to like fetch and tag. She tells him that it’s fine if he is not like other dogs. Tulip then dances and twirls around the lawn. Rex joins her with much enthusiasm, matching her moves with his own version of dancing. When it’s time to go home, Tulip makes a discovery. Rex needs a home. Can you guess what happens next? Reviewed by Ruta Arellano May Finds Her Way: The Story of an Iditarod Sled Dog By Betty Selakovich Casey The RoadRunner Press, $17.95, 32 pages Check this out! A simple explanation of Iditarod dogsled racing opens this engaging little book about May. The text is uncomplicated and friendly to a preschooler’s ear as the excited dogs are shown moving through their paces early in the race. Trouble on the trail looses the dogs from their sleds, and May is separated from her pack.
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 7
May is an appealing little dog whose e x ubera nce is vividly revealed across the pages of this hopeful story of lost and found. The painted illustrations are brighter that you might expect, for most of the story takes place in a winter land of snow and ice, and provide readers with the visual cues needed to see that May is indeed traveling home. The final page features more information about the real May and interesting facts about the Iditarod. Reviewed by Cathie Sue Andersen
Sense, cont’d from page 5 sisters navigate complicated romances and nurse broken hearts. The blurb by Sophie Kinsella on the book’s cover describes my sentiments exactly: “Jane Austen’s story and Joanna Trollope’s voice make the perfect marriage.” Trollope has managed to modernize the plot without losing any of its power. In fact, the presentday setting makes it more relevant, provoking intense emotions in this avid reader. I empathized more heartily with Elinor, felt more intensely frustrated with Marianne, and dearly wanted to punch Fanny and Lucy in their smug faces. Trollope’s Sense & Sensibility is a fun and entertaining read that remains faithful to the original. Reviewed by Tammy McCartney
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The Unseemly Education of Anne Merchant By Joanna Wiebe BenBella Books, $16.95, 272 pages Anne Merchant is used to not fitting in. At her old school, they called her Death Chick, thanks to growing up with her father, mortician to the rich and famous. Now she’s at Cania Christy, an elite boarding school, where she hopes to graduate as valedictorian so she can win a scholarship to Brown. Again, she’s the odd one out: the only one (other than Dr. Zin’s son, Ben) not living in the dorms, the only one with zits, and the only one who doesn’t seem to know what’s going on. How much is the mysterious tuition, and how did her father manage to pay it? Why is everyone so crazy about the race for the “Big V?” And why does Cania seem more like a reform school than the elite prep school it claims to be? This story will envelop you in its mysteries, surprise you with its plot twists, and keep you guessing even to the last page. Similar to Lauren Kate’s Fallen, this story seems to be more complete in itself. Though it’s clear there is more story to come, this book does not give the impression of being just an extended introduction. Now, when does the sequel come out? Reviewed by Randy-Lynne Wach Season of the Witch By Mariah Fredericks Schwartz & Wade, $16.99, 256 pages Check this out! Season of the Witch really surprised me, even before I had gotten past the first few pages of chapter one. I connected with the characters easily, and by then the story was already beginning to come together clearly. Throughout the whole book that was the
norm: easy to understand, yet deep in its implications of life and friendship. The main c ha racter, Toni, is bullied by the most popular girl in school for “stealing” her boyfriend. One of Toni’s friends, Cassandra, has been experimenting with witchcraft and asks her to check it out. So Toni fights back, but her defensive fire may be devastating for everyone involved. Meanwhile, Cassandra is taking her power too far and turning the tide on Toni… and Toni only hopes she can quell the fire before it burns out of control. There are also secondary characters that I really admire; for one, Toni’s friend Ella who struggles with self-image issues. That is the great thing about this book- it portrays real characters dealing with real-life problems while using “paranormal” aspects of the psychological thriller genre to propel the plot along. It reminds all of us, bullied or not, to take into consideration others’ lives and respect our own as well. Reviewed by Maddie Hudspeth Indigo By Gina Linko Random House BFYR, $17.99, 304 pages Check this out! Corrine and her family moved to New Orleans after Corrine’s sister died. It seemed like a tragic, freak accident, but Corrine knew better. Seconds before See Indigo, cont’d on page 14
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 8
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FebruAry 2014
A FREE MONTHLY GUIDE TO YOUR COMMUNITY LIBRARY, ITS PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
aFriCan-aMeriCan HiSTory MonTH PrograMS are MarkeD WiTH THiS iCon.
adult/teen events bixby Library a-book-a-Month Discussion group Wednesday, Feb. 19 • 2-3 p.m. Read "Dreams From My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance" by Barack Obama and then join us for this lively discussion. For adults.
broken arroW Library read or Die all-Day anime Saturday, Feb. 15 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. • Join us for a marathon of anime, art, fun and fellowship. For ages 12-18.
broken arroW Library/SoUTH broken arrow great Decisions Wednesday, Feb. 5 • 12:30-2:30 p.m. Join us for a lively discussion on "Political Islam in Africa." For adults. novels at night book Club Monday, Feb. 10 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join us as we discuss "The Snow Child" by Eowyn Ivey. A limited supply of
L i b r a r y CLoSingS
Mr. Henry'S bookS TeaCHer WorkSHoP PAge 3
the book is available at the front desk. Call 918-549-7662 to inquire. For adults. Participants should read the book prior to the program. broken arrow great Decisions Wednesday, Feb. 19 • 12:30-2:30 p.m. Join us for a lively discussion on China's foreign policy. For adults.
CoLLinSViLLe Library get Moving at your Library Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, 24 2:30-3:15 p.m. • Join us for dancing through Wii Just Dance 4. For middle and high school students. Helping kids Sleep Strong Monday, Feb. 3 • 6-7 p.m. Is your child experiencing problems at school or home? Problem behaviors are sometimes caused by problem sleep. Sleep is a potent tool and has the power to prevent illness, encourage good health and growth, and improve behavioral problems and mood. This workshop is designed to help parents and educators better understand the importance of sleep. The workshop provides adults with tools and strategies to foster high-quality sleep for children and addresses common sleep problems. Cosponsored by the University of Tulsa.
All Tulsa City-County Library locations will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17 for Presidents Day. Brookside Library will be closed Feb. 3-8 for upgrades.
CoMPUTer CLaSSeS PAge 4
Sukikyo! anime Club Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 3-4:30 p.m. Join other anime/manga fans to discuss your favorite books, movies, characters and plot twists from this popular Japanese publishing trend. For teens. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collinsville Library. Utime@yourlibrary Thursday, Feb. 20 • 2:30-4:30 p.m. Join us for fun activities, gaming and crafts. For middle and high school students. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collinsville Library.
HarDeSTy regionaL Library Hardesty book Discussion group Wednesday, Feb. 5 • 10:30-11:30 a.m. Location: first floor study room Read "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion and then join us for this lively discussion. Full of quirky characters, the story follows a professor of genetics who attempts to scientifically find a wife by creating The Wife Project. Copies of the book are available upon request at the service desk. For adults. Minecraft gaming Thursday, Feb. 6 • 6-7:30 p.m. Location: Computer Lab Put your imagination to the test building your own world in the
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popular game Minecraft. For ages 12-18. Seating is limited. Simple Steps for Starting your business: Start-Up basics Thursday, Feb. 6 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. Want to start a business? Get the help you need with SCORE experts. Learn the essentials of business start-ups, get action steps for your business and receive one-to-one mentoring. SCORE is a nonprofit association of volunteer business experts. Registration is required. Go to www. tulsa.score.org to register. For adults. Hardesty Teen Manga Club Saturday, Feb. 8 • 2-3 p.m. If you enjoy reading manga and would like to talk about it with others, join us as we start a new teen manga club. For ages 12-18. Visiting genealogy Databases: Fold3 Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 10-11 a.m. Location: Maple room The National Archives in Washington, D.C., is digitizing historical and genealogical documents and making them available on the Fold3 database. With a strong focus on military records, Fold3 is an important tool for genealogical research. Discover the many useful resources this database has to offer family history researchers. For adults.
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Estate Planning: Daughter Is Named Beneficiary on Mom's CD, But Daughter Is Left Out of Mom's Will. Which Prevails? Wednesday, Feb. 12 • noon-1 p.m. Location: Pecan Room Join attorney Rita Foster as she discusses wills, revocable trusts, powers of attorney and other estateplanning documents. Plus, learn how to avoid probate. For adults. For more information or to reserve a seat at the seminar, call 918-398-6681. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust. Social Security Strategies to Maximize Your Benefits Wednesday, Feb. 19 • noon-1 p.m. Location: Pecan Room Join Scott Villines with Steven L. Wilson & Associates Certified Public Accountants as he discusses these important Social Security issues: collecting early, collecting at full retirement age, delaying collection, spousal benefits, survivor benefits, collection strategies based on different family dynamics, plus collection strategies to maximize your retirement benefits from Social Security. For adults. For more information or to reserve a seat at the seminar, call 918-398-6681. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust. DIY Maker: Using a Sewing Machine Saturday, Feb. 22 • 1-4 p.m. Is your sewing machine starting to collect dust? Have you always wanted to learn to sew, but have been intimidated by your machine? We're here to help! Let us show you the basics of sewing. Learn to wind a bobbin, thread your machine, plus basic machine care and maintenance. Also, learn basic stitches and get started on your first sewing project. We will provide you with resources to pursue your own DIY sewing projects and answer any questions you might have about sewing. For all ages. Bring your own sewing machine. Teen Time Monday, Feb. 24 • 6-7:30 p.m. Play games or create crafts while enjoying snacks. For ages 12-18. Visiting Genealogy Databases: Historygeo Tuesday, Feb. 25 • 2-3:30 p.m. Location: Maple Room America's land distribution played a major role in the settlement patterns of our ancestors. Using the Historygeo database researchers can locate their ancestor's
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federal land grant. Learn the background behind this historic land distribution and how to use this online mapping tool. For adults.
Helmerich Library Books People Are Talking About Wednesday, Feb. 19 • 12:15-1:15 p.m. Award-winning author Rilla Askew will discuss her latest novel, "Kind of Kin," just published in paperback. She has written four novels, has been nominated for the prestigious PEN/Faulkner Award, and twice received the Oklahoma Book Award. For adults. Light Refreshments will be served. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library. Help tad@H Contribute to the TulsaWiki Tuesday, Feb. 25 • 4-5:30 p.m. The TulsaWiki, hosted by Tulsa CityCounty Library, is a collaborative effort to share local knowledge about Tulsa. With your help, we can add to the collective pages and let Tulsans and others know about what you would recommend from your community! For teens.
Jenks Library JTAG and Board Games Tuesday, Feb. 4 • 4-5 p.m. Join the Jenks Teen Advisory Group as we plan library services for teens. We'll also play board games like Ticket to Ride and Star Fluxx. For ages 12-19. Jenks Library Book Discussion Group Thursday, Feb. 20 • 1:30-2:30 p.m. Participants should read the selected book prior to the program. Call 918549-7570 for book title. For adults.
Judy z. kishner Library Steampunk Valentines Thursday, Feb. 13 • 4-5 p.m. Create a steampunk valentine for your special someone. For ages 10-18.
Librarium DIY Maker: Using a Sewing Machine Saturday, Feb. 15 • 2-3:30 p.m. Is your sewing machine starting to collect dust? Have you always wanted to learn to sew, but have been intimidated by your machine? We're here to help! Let us show you the basics of sewing. Learn to wind a bobbin, thread your machine, plus basic machine care and maintenance. Also, learn
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basic stitches and get started on your first sewing project. We will provide you with resources to pursue your own DIY sewing projects and answer any questions you might have about sewing. For all ages. Bring your own sewing machine.
Martin Regional Library Teen Time Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 4-5 p.m. • Join us for Wii and board games, snacks and fun. You won't want to miss it! For ages 10-18. Minecraft Night Thursday, Feb. 13 • 6-8 p.m. Put your imagination to the test building your own world in the popular computer game Minecraft. Class size is limited. For ages 10-18. Manga Ai! Saturday, Feb. 15 • 2-3 p.m. Munch on Pocky and meet up with other manga fans to discuss your favorite books and movies, characters and plot twists. For sixth-graders and up. Teen Advisory Board Meeting Saturday, Feb. 15 • 3:15-4:15 p.m. Join us for our monthly meeting. Enjoy snacks, discuss programming, and help provide a teen perspective on the services and materials Martin Regional Library offers. For ages 12-18.
Help an Adult Learn to
Read
nathan hale LIBRARY Health Care Navigators @ Your Library Friday, Feb. 14 • 1-3 p.m. A Navigator is trained and able to help consumers, small businesses and their employees as they look for health coverage options through the Marketplace, including completing eligibility and enrollment forms. Navigators will be available to answer questions about the Affordable Care Act and to assist with registering for and purchasing insurance through the Marketplace. To register, visit https://www.surveymonkey. com/s/librarynavigator. For adults. Sponsored by the Oklahoma Primary Care Association.
pratt library Be My Valentine Tuesday, Feb. 11 • 5-6 p.m. Make a valentine (or two) for someone special! For ages 12-18. Class size is limited.
Rudisill Regional Library 2014 African-American Heritage High School History Bowl Wednesday, Feb. 5 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The bowl challenges high school teams over topics relating to AfricanAmerican history. It is open to all
One in six adults in the Tulsa area needs help improving his or her reading skills. They cannot follow instructions on a prescription label, complete a job application or read a bedtime story to a child. Tulsa City-County Library’s Ruth G. Hardman Adult Literacy Service needs volunteer tutors to help adults improve their reading and writing skills. Tutors must be 18 years of age or older and have graduated from high school. Each trained volunteer is matched with an adult student to provide one-toone tutoring once or twice a week. Volunteers are asked to make a one-year commitment to tutor. Tutors must complete nine hours of initial training. Visit TulsaLibrary. org/literacy or call 918-549-7400 for details about upcoming training workshops.
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high schools in Tulsa County. Each team has four members plus two alternates for a maximum of six. Trophies for first, second and third place will be awarded. For all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of the Rudisill Regional Library, Williams Companies, Tulsa Library Trust and African-American Resource Center. Sankofa Freedom Award 2014 Salutes Susan L. Taylor Saturday, Feb. 8 • 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Susan L. Taylor, founder of the National Cares Mentoring Foundation and editor-in-chief emeritus of Essence magazine, will receive the Sankofa Freedom Award. The award is given biennially by the Tulsa Library Trust and AfricanAmerican Resource Center to a deserving African-American who has made significant contributions to the history and culture of AfricanAmericans. With a message of engaging adults to spend at least one hour a week mentoring young people, Taylor will address social, literary and economic issues facing communities today. A book signing will immediately follow Taylor's presentation. A private breakfast for sponsors will be held at 8:30 a.m., followed by the public program at 10 a.m. To become a sponsor of the Sankofa Freedom Award, contact Larry Bartley at lbartley@ tulsalibrarytrust.org. For all ages. Sponsored by the African-American Resource Center, Tulsa Library Trust, Sally Frasier and Williams Companies. Simple Steps for Starting Your Business: Start-Up Basics Saturday, Feb. 15 • 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Want to start a business? Get the help you need with SCORE experts. Learn the essentials of business start-ups, get action steps for your business and receive one-to-one mentoring. SCORE is a nonprofit association of volunteer business experts. Registration is required. Go to www. tulsa.score.org to register. For adults.
SCHUSTERMANBENSON Library Workshop: Symphonic Gardening Wednesday, Feb. 5 • 4-6 p.m. Join Tulsa's own novel gardener Maurie as she shows us how to create a gardening lifestyle with harmony, balance and style! For ages 16 and older. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7670 to register.
Hearing loop available. Switch hearing aid to T-coil.
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Mystery Readers Roundtable Thursday, Feb. 6 • 2-3 p.m. Come for coffee and tell us what you've been reading. For adults.
Mr. Henry’s Books
TeacHer WorksH op Saturday, Feb. 22 • 9 a.m. to noon
Suburban Acres Library Blind Date With a Book Saturday, Feb. 15 • 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Stop by the Suburban Acres Library and get set up on a Blind Date With a Book. Library staff will "hook you up" with a respectable book to read and review. Returned reviews will receive a token of thanks from library staff. For all ages. Go to the Movies @ the Library Saturday, Feb. 22 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Celebrate Black History Month by relaxing at the library with a classic movie and popcorn. Movies will be shown all day, so drop by anytime. For all ages. Seating is limited.
Zarrow Regional Library Backyard Chickens Saturday, Feb. 8 • 10 a.m.-noon Raising chickens is a great way to stay healthy and become more self-sufficient. Learn from experienced chicken owners how to keep chickens in your own backyard no matter where you live. For all ages. Seating is limited. GED Success Thursday, Feb. 13 • 6-7:30 p.m. Learn what is new for the GED in 2014 and what library resources are available to help you prepare to take the test. For ages 16 and older. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Call 918-549-7683 to register. Living Longer, Living Stronger Tuesdays, Feb 18, 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25 1-3:30 p.m. • Join INCOG Area Agency on Aging for this free sixweek workshop on practical skills for managing chronic health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis or high blood pressure. Caregivers and family members welcome. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Call Rachel Deaton 918-579-9441 to reserve a spot. For ages 60+. Minecraft Night Thursday, Feb. 27 • 6-8 p.m. Put your imagination to the test building your own world in the popular computer game Minecraft. For ages 13-18.
Hardesty Regional Library • 8316 E. 93rd St.
regisTer NoW aNd receive • Continental breakfast • 35 copies of Newbery Award-winning Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos, winner of the 2014 Anne V. Zarrow Award for Young Readers’ Literature • Lesson plans on how to use the works of Jack Gantos for a variety of school subjects • One lucky participant will win a visit by Jack Gantos to his/her classroom on Aug. 22, 2014. Participants must be employed by a school district within Tulsa County. This workshop is recommended for fourth- through eighth-grade teachers. Registrations are limited and must be received by Feb. 15. Mr. Henry’s Books is a program of the Tulsa City-County Library, sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust, made possible by a grant from the Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation.
regisTraTioN ForM Registration Fee $10
(check or money order made payable to TulsaKids Magazine) Name
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Email Registration fees are nonrefundable, but teachers may send a substitute if unable to attend.
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T uls a c i t y - c o u n t y l i b r a r y e v e n t g u i d e
february 2014
c o m p u t e r
computer classes Hardesty Regional Library
CLASSES ARE limited to 18 on a first-come, first-served basis. MS Excel 1 Tuesday, Feb. 4 • 6-8 p.m. This class shows how to create formulas, use automatic fill and change basic formatting. You should take MS Word 2 and have some experience using a mouse prior to taking this class. MS Excel 2 Tuesday, Feb. 11 • 6-8 p.m. This class shows how to create and edit formulas, plus apply functions and advanced formatting to your spreadsheets and workbooks. You should take MS Excel 1 prior to taking this class. MS Word 1 Thursday, Feb. 13 • 9:30-11:30 a.m. This class shows how to use toolbars and menus, set margins, apply spell check, and preview, save and print documents. You should have some experience using a computer keyboard and mouse prior to taking this class. MS Excel 3 Tuesday, Feb. 18 • 6-8 p.m. This class shows how to use Excel to create visual representations of spreadsheet and workbook data. You'll learn how to create charts, apply conditional formatting and control the appearance of printed spreadsheets. You should take MS Excel 2 prior to taking this class. Online Health Resources Saturday, Feb. 22 • 9:30-11 a.m. Find reliable health information using the library's health databases and the Internet. We'll teach you how to research diseases, prescription drugs and supplements, plus how to find medical articles, use an online medical dictionary and evaluate Internet websites. You should have some experience using a computer keyboard and mouse prior to taking this class.
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MS PowerPoint 101 Tuesday, Feb. 25 • 6-8 p.m. This class shows how to create group presentations and slide shows. You should take MS Word 2 prior to taking this class.
Martin Regional Library
CLASSES ARE LIMITED TO 12 ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS. MS Word 1 Saturday, Feb. 1 • 10 a.m.-noon This class shows how to use toolbars and menus, set margins, apply spell check, and preview, save and print documents. You should have some experience using a computer keyboard and mouse prior to taking this class. Introduction to Bibliocommons Tuesday, Feb. 4 • 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn how to use our interactive catalog and checkout system, which features intuitive searching, community input and eBook integration. Mastering Bibliocommons is the first step in harnessing the power of digital media on any device. MS Word 2 Saturday, Feb. 8 • 10 a.m.-noon This class shows how to create and format tables, use bulleted and numbered lists, and apply and format columns in a document. You should take MS Word 1 prior to attending. MS Excel I Tuesday, Feb. 11 • 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn how to create formulas, use automatic fill and change basic formatting. You should take MS Word 2 and have some experience using a mouse prior to taking this class. MS Word 3 Saturday, Feb. 15 • 10 a.m.-noon This class shows how to create and use borders and shading, headers and footers, page numbering and drawing tools. You should take MS Word 2 prior to taking this class. All About Freegal and Freading Tuesday, Feb. 18 • 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn how to get free music and eBooks using your library card. Previous experience with Bibliocommons is required. MS Word 4 Saturday, Feb. 22 • 10 a.m.-noon Explore mail merge, use tables to perform calculations and create onscreen forms. You should take MS Word 3 prior to taking this class.
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Open Lab Tuesday, Feb. 25 • 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sometimes new technology can be intimidating. Let a trained professional give you personalized help in a relaxed setting. Come and go at your leisure.
Rudisill Regional Library
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children’s events Bixby Library
For all ages. registration is Required. Class SIZES ARE limited. Call 918-549-7645 to register.
My First Storytime Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, 24 10:30-10:45 a.m. • For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers.
Really Basic Computer Class Friday, Feb. 7 • 9:30-11 a.m. This class is designed for new computer users who have little or no previous experience using computers, Windows, a mouse or the Internet, and little or no knowledge of basic computer terms.
Preschool Storytime Mondays • 11-11:30 a.m. For ages 2-5. Feb. 3 • Pets Feb. 10 • Monkeys Feb. 24 • Transportation
Introduction to MS Word 2007 Friday, Feb. 14 • 9:30-11 a.m. This class shows how to use toolbars and menus, set margins, apply spell check, and preview, save and print documents. You should have some experience using a computer keyboard and mouse prior to taking this class. Internet @ the Library Friday, Feb. 21 • 9:30-11 a.m. This class is designed for people with little or no experience using the Internet. You will learn to navigate the World Wide Web and use the library's catalog system and online resources. Email 101 Friday, Feb. 28 • 9:30-11 a.m. Learn how to set up a free account and how to use it to send and receive email.
Zarrow Regional Library Computers for Seniors Wednesdays, Feb. 12, 19, 26; March 5 1:30-3:30 p.m. • Have you always wanted to learn to use a computer but were afraid to try? This series of four classes is designed especially for older folks who need a slower-paced, encouraging atmosphere in which to learn new skills. Feb.12, "Hardware Boot Camp"; Feb.19, "Beginning Internet"; Feb.26, "Fun With Files"; March 5, "Email 101." For ages 55+. Registration is required. Class size is limited. Call 918-549-7683 to register.
Broken Arrow Library My First Storytime Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, 24 Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30-10:50 a.m. • For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10:30-10:50 a.m. • For ages 3-5. Lego Superheroes Party Tuesday, Feb. 4 • 4-5 p.m. Calling all superheroes and Lego fans! Join us to build amazing superhero (or supervillain) hideouts as we celebrate the new film. Costumes and personal Lego sets are optional. For ages 6-10. Stay and Play Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 11-11:30 a.m. • Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 2-5. Wii Hang Out Tuesday, Feb. 11 • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Children and teens who may struggle with skills such as taking turns and interacting with peers are invited to enjoy games in a relaxed environment. Teen buddies are provided for each participant. To register, call 918549-7500 or email kmcdowe@ tulsalibrary.org. For ages 8-18. PAWS for Reading Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 4-5 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the
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Tulsa Library Trust. Registration starts at 3:45 p.m. on the day of the event.
Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust.
Broken Arrow Library/South
Collinsville Library
Family Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 18, 25 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Enjoy stories, action rhymes, fun flannels, music and bubbles, plus meet other preschoolers in the neighborhood. For ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Stay and Play Tuesday, Feb. 4 • 11-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19 • 11-11:30 a.m. For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! After our regularly scheduled storytime, join us for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 5 and younger and their caregivers. My First Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10-10:20 a.m. • For newborns to 18-month-olds and their caregivers. Toddler Time Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Share a story. Sing a song. We hope you'll come along! For 18- to 36-montholds and their caregivers. Music and Movement Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30-10:50 a.m. • Stretch! Jump! Sing! Read! Join us for a storytime that is all about movement and motion. We will enjoy great books while we get out all our wiggles with fun group activities. For ages 5 and younger.
Brookside Library Preschool Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 12, 19, 26 10:15-10:45 a.m. • For ages 2-5. An adult must accompany 2-year-olds. Valentine's Crafts Thursday, Feb. 13 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Drop by after school to make pretty bookmarks and heart chains with Miss Dana. For ages 5-12. My First Storytime Wednesday, Feb. 19 • 11-11:20 a.m. For newborns to 24-montholds and their caregivers. PAWS for Reading Thursday, Feb. 27 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 7-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend.
Stories From the Rocking Chair Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 10:30-11 a.m. • Enjoy stories, songs, crafts and more. For newborns to 4-year-olds and their caregivers.
glenpool Library Stories From Around the World Wednesdays • 10:30-11 a.m. For ages 5 and younger. Feb. 5 • Asia Feb. 12 • Africa Feb. 19 • Russia Feb. 26 • Mexico
Hardesty Regional Library Toddler Time Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, 24 • 10-10:20 a.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 11-11:20 a.m. Join Ms. Josie for stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-3 and their caregivers. Mr. Paul's Preschool Storytime Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, 24 11-11:30 a.m. • For ages 3-5. Marvelous Monday Stories Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, 24 • 6:30-7 p.m. Join Ms. Karen for stories and other fun activities. For all ages. My First Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10-10:20 a.m. • For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime With Ms. Kristie Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 11-11:30 a.m. Join us for stories, music and activities. For ages 3-5. Toddler Dance Party Thursday, Feb. 13 • 10-11 a.m. Dance and play the morning away to fun kid's music with Ms. Josie and Ms. Karen. We'll have shakers, scarves and musical instruments, plus time for free dance and socializing. For ages 2-5.
Helmerich Library Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 10:30-10:55 a.m. • Join us for books, music and more. For all ages.
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Seuss on the Loose Thursday, Feb. 27 • 10:15-10:45 a.m. Join us as we celebrate the literature of Dr. Seuss, including "Cat in the Hat" and more. For all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of the Helmerich Library.
Herman and Kate Kaiser Library Preschool Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10:30-11 a.m. • Enjoy fun and imaginative stories, rhymes and finger plays that foster essential early literacy and language skills. For ages 5 and younger. My First Storytime Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and finger plays that foster early literacy and language development. Families and caregivers are invited to stay after and enjoy our Family Place children's area. For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. PAWS for Reading Wednesdays, Feb. 12, 26 • 3:30-5 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Sensory Storytime Saturday, Feb. 22 • 10:30 a.m.-noon Does your child have difficulty sitting through storytime? If so, this inclusive, interactive program of stories, songs and activities may be just what you are looking for! Sensory Storytime focuses on learning with all five senses and is especially designed for children with a variety of learning styles or sensory integration challenges. Registration is required. Register online at http://kids.tulsalibrary.org/ sensorystorytime or by calling 918-5497542. For ages 1-7 and their caregivers.
Jenks Library My First Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10-10:15 a.m. • For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime Wednesdays • 10:30-11 a.m. For ages 3-5. Feb. 5 • Kings and Queens Feb. 12 • Little Sweethearts Feb. 19 • Boats Feb. 26 • Trains
PAWS for Reading Tuesday, Feb. 18 • 4-5 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7570 to register.
Judy z. kishner Library Gingerbread Friends Tuesday, Feb. 25 • 3-4 p.m. Run, run as fast as you can! This Terrific Tuesday is full of friendship and spice! For ages 5-10.
Librarium Family Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 11-11:30 a.m. • For ages 5 and younger. PAWS for Reading Saturday, Feb. 8 • 1-2 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Mini Makers: Valentine Treats Saturday, Feb. 8 • 2-3 p.m. Make a tasty – and healthy – nobake treat. We'll also read stories and play games, so bring your sweetie and join the fun! For ages 3-12 and their families. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7439 to sign up. Walkins welcome if space is available. Make It @ Your Library Saturday, Feb. 22 • 2-3 p.m. Join us in our Maker Space as we help you tap into your imagination to create something awesome! For ages 8 and older.
Martin Regional Library Fun Fun Music! Monday, Feb. 3 • 10-11 a.m. Are you ready to sing, hop and jump to songs in Japanese and English? Join the Konnichiwa group for a fun-filled musical program. For ages 5 and younger. Book Buddies: Pirates Monday, Feb. 3 • 4-4:45 p.m. Read books about pirates and make a pirate craft with Miss Michelle. For second- through fourth-graders.
T uls a c i t y - c o u n t y l i b r a r y e v e n t g u i d e
february 2014
c h i l d r e n ’ s (Martin Regional Library continued)
Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 10-10:30 a.m. • For ages 1-5 and their caregivers.
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Valentine's Day Party Friday, Feb. 14 • 1-2 p.m. Join us for games and crafts. For ages 5-12.
Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10-10:30 a.m. • For ages 3-5.
naTHan HaLe Library
Stay and Play Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10:30-11 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! After our regularly scheduled storytime, join us for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 5 and younger and their caregivers.
bilingual Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 6:30-7 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 10-10:30 a.m. Enjoy stories, songs and activities in English and Spanish. For ages 5 and younger.
Storytime With Miss nha Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30-11 a.m. • Join us for stories, finger plays, Mother Goose rhymes and dancing. For ages 4 and younger.
book buddies Mondays, Feb. 10, 24 • 4-4:45 p.m. Read books, play games and make a craft with Miss Michelle. For second- through fourth-graders.
My First Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 9:30-9:50 a.m. • For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers.
oWaSSo Library
Homeschool Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 • 2-3 p.m. Join us as we read stories and make a craft. For ages 5-12.
tulsa city-county library locations 25 bixby Library 20 E. Breckenridge, 74008 • 918-549-7514 M, 10-8; T-Th, 12-8; Fri., 12-6; Sat., 10-5 19 broken arrow Library 300 W. Broadway, 74012 • 918-549-7500 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 23 broken arrow Library/South 3600 S. Chestnut, 74011 • 918-549-7662 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 17 brookside Library (Closed Feb. 3-8) 1207 E. 45th Place, 74105 • 918-549-7507 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 9 Central Library Closed for renovation 400 Civic Center, 74103 • 918-549-7323 8 Charles Page Library 551 E. Fourth St., Sand Springs, 74063 918-549-7521 • M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 2 Collinsville Library 1223 Main, 74021 • 918-549-7528 M-Th, 12-8; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5 24 glenpool Library 730 E. 141st St., 74033 • 918-549-7535 M-Th, 12-8; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5 22 Hardesty regional Library and genealogy Center 8316 E. 93rd St., 74133 • 918-549-7550 M-Th, 9-9; Fri., 9-6; Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5 21 Helmerich Library 5131 E. 91st St., 74137 • 918-549-7631 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 18 Herman and kate kaiser Library 5202 S. Hudson Ave., Suite B, 74135 918-549-7542 • M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 20 Jenks Library 523 W. B St., 74037 • 918-549-7570 M-T, 12-8; W-Th, 10-6; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5 3 Judy z. kishner Library 10150 N. Cincinnati Ave. E., Sperry 74073 • 918-549-7577 M-T, 12-7; W, 10-5; Th, 12-7; Fri., 12-5; Sat., 10-5
11 kendall-Whittier Library 21 S. Lewis, 74104 • 918-549-7584 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 10 Librarium 1110 S. Denver Ave., 74119 • 918-549-7349 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 15 Martin regional Library and Hispanic resource Center 2601 S. Garnett Road, 74129 • 918-549-7590 M-Th, 9-9; Fri., 9-6; Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5 7 Maxwell Park Library 1313 N. Canton, 74115 • 918-549-7610 M-F, 10-6; Sat., 10-5 14 nathan Hale Library 6038 E. 23rd St., 74114 • 918-549-7617 M, 10-8; T-Th, 10-6; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 4 owasso Library 103 W. Broadway, 74055 • 918-549-7624 M-Th, 10-8; Fri., 10-6; Sat., 10-5 12 Pratt Library 3219 S. 113th W. Ave., Sand Springs, 74063 • 918-549-7638 M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 6 rudisill regional Library and african-american resource Center 1520 N. Hartford, 74106 • 918-549-7645 M-Th, 9-9; Fri.-Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5 13 Schusterman-benson Library 3333 E. 32nd Place, 74135 918-549-7670 • M-Th, 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-5 1 Skiatook Library 316 E. Rogers, 74070 • 918-549-7676 M, 12-8; T-Th, 10-6; Fri.-Sat., 11-5 5 Suburban acres Library 4606 N. Garrison, 74126 • 918-549-7655 M-Th, 10-6; Fri.-Sat., 11-5 16 zarrow regional Library and american indian resource Center 2224 W. 51st St., 74107 • 918-549-7683 M-Th, 9-9; Fri.-Sat., 9-5; Sun., 1-5
T u l s a L i b r a r y . o r g
Sensory Storytime Friday, Feb. 7 • 4-5 p.m. Does your child have difficulty sitting through storytime? If so, this inclusive, interactive program of stories, songs and activities may be just what you are looking for! Sensory Storytime focuses on learning with all five senses and is especially designed for children with a variety of learning styles or sensory integration challenges. Registration is required. Register online at http:// kids.tulsalibrary.org/sensorystorytime or by calling 918-549-7624. For ages 1-7 and their caregivers. PaWS for reading Thursday, Feb. 13 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12
c h i l d r e n ’ s are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Owasso Mother-Daughter Book Club Thursday, Feb. 20 • 6-7 p.m. Girls ages 9-12 and their mothers are invited to join us to discuss a great read. Copies of the featured book are available at the library. Participants should read the selected book prior to the program. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7624 to register.
pratt Library American Indian Festival of Words: Making Mosaics Saturday, Feb. 1 • 1-2 p.m. Barbie King of Tulsa Tech will be our program instructor. She will tell us about our American Indian Resouce Center's special Circle of Honor winner, Ruthe Blalock Jones, and show us some of the artist's work. Then we will make mosaics in the style of Mrs. Jones. All completed works will be on display at the Circle of Honor awards ceremony in March. For ages 5-11. Registration is required. Call 918-549-7638 to register. Preschool Storytime Thursdays • 10:30-11:30 a.m. For ages 5 and younger with an adult. Feb. 6 • Valentine Craft Day Feb. 13 • Valentine's Day Party – Wear red and bring goodies to share, if you like. Feb. 20 • Cowboys and Cowgirls – Come dressed up as cowboys and cowgirls. Parents, bring your cameras for special photo op of the children. Feb. 27 • Helpers at Home
Rudisill Regional Library Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10-10:30 a.m. • For ages 2-5. An adult must accompany 2-year-olds. Valentine's Day Crafts Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. We'll create special valentines for friends and families. For ages 5-12.
SchustermanBenson Library Paper Airplane Fly-Off Monday, Feb. 3 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. How far will your airplane fly? Try folding and flying all sorts of paper airplanes. For ages 5-12.
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Stay and Play Storytime Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 10:30-11:30 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For ages 6 and younger. My First Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10-10:20 a.m. • For newborns to 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Stay and Play Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10:30-11:30 a.m. • For babies and toddlers, playing is learning! Enjoy storytime and then stay after for games, toys and activities that foster critical early literacy skills. For newborns to 2-yearolds and their caregivers. PAWS for Reading Monday, Feb. 10 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust.
skiatook Library PAWS for Reading Saturdays, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22 noon-1 p.m. • Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 3-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust. Preschool Storytime Thursdays • 11 a.m.-noon Join us for stories, rhymes, songs and a craft. For newborns to 6-year-olds and their caregivers. Feb. 6 • Hats and Mittens Feb. 13 • Valentine's Day Feb. 20 • Treasure Hunt Feb. 27 • Author Day, Dr. Seuss Have You Heard? Thursday, Feb. 13 • 3:30-4:30 p.m. Discover the "mystery" book with activities, snacks and a craft. Get "hooked" on a great read. For grades K-5.
suburban acres Library Deadline for African-American History Month Essay Contest Wednesday, Feb. 26 The contest is hosted by the Suburban Acres Library. Call 918-549-7655 for more information. For ages 10-15.
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Zarrow Regional Library Legos and Minecraft Saturday, Feb. 15 • 2-3 p.m. Have a block-filled blast playing Legos and the popular computer game Minecraft! For ages 5-12.
en español clases de informática BIBLIOTECA REGIONAL MARTIN Computación para Principiantes Miércoles, 5 de febrero 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Esta clase es para personas con poca o ninguna experiencia usando computadoras y el internet. Los familiarizará con el uso y la terminología de la computación. Para todas las edades. Aula de práctica Viernes, 7 de febrero 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m. • Abrimos el salón de cómputo para los que quieran aprovechar el tiempo para practicar con el teclado y con el ratón o para practicar navegar el Internet, llenar formularios o aplicaciones. La maestra estará presente como personal de apoyo. Para todas las edades. Conoce y navega tu biblioteca en línea y sus servicios Miércoles, 12 de febrero 6:30-8:30 p.m. • En esta clase aprenderás cómo navegar la página oficial de la Biblioteca, el Centro Hispano, encontrar tus libros, ver películas, escuchar música, cómo estudiar para tu GED, mejorar tu inglés, practicar para tu examen de ciudadanía y mucho más. Para todas las edades. Comunicación en el Internet: Correo Electrónico Miércoles, 19 de febrero 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Esta clase te enseña cómo crear una cuenta de correo electrónico y cómo usarla para comunicarte con tu familia, amigos y el mundo. Para todas las edades.
PAWS for Reading Saturday, Feb. 22 • 2-3 p.m. Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust.
Patrocinado por el Centro Hispano y el Fideicomiso de las Bibliotecas de Tulsa. Informes al 918-549-7597.
TulsaLibrary.org/hrc Correo Electrónico I Viernes, 21 de febrero 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m. • Les enseñaremos cómo crear una cuenta de correo electrónico y cómo usarla para enviar y recibir correo. Para todas las edades. Búsqueda de Trabajo en la Era Digital Miércoles, 26 de febrero 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Utilizaremos las herramientas que tanto el internet como la biblioteca, el programa MS Word, y otros recursos ofrecen para mejorar tu búsqueda de trabajo en la era digital. Para todas las edades. Facebook I Viernes, 28 de febrero 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m. • Explora el fenómeno social que es Facebook. Los participantes aprenderán cómo abrir una cuenta en Facebook, encontrar amigos y familiares, cómo controlar el contenido de su página y asegurar la privacidad de su información. Para todas las edades.
programas infantiles BIBLIOTECA REGIONAL MARTIN Cuentitos Bilingües Miércoles, 5, 12, 19, 26 de febrero 6:30-7 p.m. Jueves, 6, 13, 20, 27 de febrero 10-10:30 a.m. Disfruta cuentos, canciones, y actividades en inglés y español. Para niños de 0 a 5 años.
T uls a c i t y - c o u n t y l i b r a r y e v e n t g u i d e
february 2014
Library
Health Care Navigators A
at the
Navigator is trained and able to help consumers, small businesses and their employees as they look for health coverage options through the
Marketplace, including completing eligibility and enrollment forms.
N
avigators will be at these Tulsa City-County Library locations to answer
questions about the Affordable Care Act and to assist anyone needing help registering for and purchasing insurance through the Marketplace.
Friday, Feb. 14 • 1-3 p.m. Nathan Hale Library
Wednesday, March 5 • 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Charles Page Library
To register for a session, visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/librarynavigators or call 918-549-7430 for more information.
TO SEARCH FOR EVENTS, SCAN THIS CODE USING YOUR MOBILE DEVICE AND QR SCANNER APP.
T u l s a L i b r a r y . o r g
Free and Open to the Public If you are hearing-impaired and need a qualified interpreter, please call the library 48 hours in advance of the program.
The Tulsa Book Review and Tulsa City-County Library Event Guide are printed on partially recycled paper.
The Tulsa City-County Library Event Guide is produced by the Public Relations Office of the Tulsa City-County Library. For questions or concerns, call 918-549-7389.
Book Reviews Category
Mind & Body Fitness SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Finding Your Voice: Sort Through the Clutter and Discover Clarity, Confidence and Direction By Joel Boggess Sound Wisdom, $14.99, 160 pages Check this out! I have a theory that happiness in life is connected to c r e a t i v it y, which can be expressed in innumerable ways. So it didn’t really come as a surprise to me that this book, Finding Your Voice, reads very much like other books I have on nurturing creativity, such as Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way. But Joel Boggess doesn’t want to help you become an artist (although that might happen, depending on what you discover as you go through the activities in the book); he wants to help you become a better, and happier, you. Inspiring examples (including Joel’s own story) fill the book. Each example presents something new to consider, and turns it back to the reader—how can this help you to discover your own path? “Safety Steps” offer small activities that can give a jump start to each new idea, and each chapter concludes with questions for reflection. There’s space to write in the book, but the website offers printable journal pages with more space to complete all the exercises. The advice and activities aren’t exactly groundbreaking, but they are effective, and Joel’s enthusiasm and genuine caring make a great companion on the path to positive life change. Reviewed by Randy-Lynne Wach The Cancer Chronicles: Unlocking Medicine’s Deepest Mystery By George Johnson Knopf, $27.95, 304 pages Check this out! Each of the thirteen chapters included in this chronicle could stand alone as a magazine piece on some aspect of this relentless
aff liction. Delving into the historical evidence of cancer’s presence in dinosaur fossils and well as historic and pre h i stor ic primates, it’s shown that this disease has had a long history and continues to evolve. Reports on the current research into the roots of tumor formation evoke topics on gene malfunction, mitochondrial disarray, epigenetic triggers, carcinogenic agents, the process of cell suicide or apoptosis, and other abnormal workings within the enigmatic cells. Much is made of false hopes creating myths regarding causes of this malady and of practices to avoid its development. The effect of this dire disease on humans is poignantly described in the diagnosis and treatment of the author’s wife for pelvic cancer and his brother suffering from mouth cancer. Novel treatments are constantly emerging but the therapies, while they offer hope, too frequently lead the afflicted through a purgatory of pain and disappointment. The longer one lives, the greater the odds of succumbing to pathologies resulting from aberrant, uncontrolled cell multiplication. Cancer hits home to too many of us; this is a book that cogently examines and explains its many aspects. Reviewed by Aron Row The Healthy Pregnancy Book: Month by Month, Everything You Need to Know From America’s Baby Experts By William Sears, Martha Sears, Linda Holt, BJ Snell Little, Brown & Co., $17.00, 464 pages Check this out! Many people look to Bill & Martha Sears for advice about pregnancy, birth, and child rearing. The newest addition to the Sears Parenting Library is The Healthy Pregnancy Book, which replaces their previous pregnancy book. This volume contains everything you need to have a healthy pregnancy!
They start with basics: nutr ition, exercise, reducing stress, sleeping, and green living. The book then progresses to a monthby-month study of pregnancy, including how baby is growing, how you may be feeling, and issues that you may be concerned about. The Healthy Pregnancy Book does not focus undue attention on everything that can go wrong; most pregnancies are low-risk, and this book’s focus on normalcy and what you can do to stay healthy is a breath of fresh air compared to many other mainstream pregnancy books. Birth itself is covered, then postpartum, and the very last chapter is where complications are discussed. Perhaps the best part is how up-to-date and evidence-based most of the information is; mothers are encouraged to eat during labor if they desire, to discuss whether fetal monitoring should be continuous or intermittent, and to consider delayed cord clamping. With its friendly, conversational writing style, this book is sure to be well-received by expecting parents everywhere. Reviewed by Holly Scudero
Yoga Mama, Yoga Baby: Ayurveda and Yoga for a Healthy Pregnancy and Birth By Margo Shapiro Bachman Sounds True, $18.95, 280 pages Check this out! Prenata l yoga has become a very popular practice in recent years, and with good reason. Practicing yoga postures help moms-to-be stretch, get gentle exercise, and prepare for labor. But yoga, and its complimentary science Ayurveda, have so much more to offer! Enter Yoga Mama, Yoga Baby, in which author Margo Bachman shows expectant readers how to further integrate these practices into their lives. Bachman offers an introductory course in Ayurveda, with basic self-assessments that can help you subtly alter your diet to be more effective for your particular body type. The heart of the book is a month-by-month breakdown of your pregnancy, with very basic information on your baby’s development as well as ideas for appropriate asana practice, See Yoga Mama, cont’d on page 10
Mango is an online languagelearning system that can help you learn languages like:
• Spanish • French • Japanese • Brazilian powered by
• • •
Choose from nearly 40 languages and learn by listening to native speakers and engaging in the interactive lessons offered through this user-friendly language instruction tool. Visit TulsaLibrary.org/language and use your Tulsa City-County Library card to access Mango Languages.
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 9
• • • • • •
Portuguese German Mandarin Chinese English as a Second Language Greek Italian Russian Hebrew Thai Vietnamese
Book Reviews Category
Home, Garden & DIY SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Warm Mittens and Socks: Dozens of Playful Patterns and Skillful Stitches to Knit, Crochet, and Embroider By Eva Trotzig, Malin Nuhma (photographer) Skyhorse Publishing, $14.95, 112 pages Check this out! K nitting and crocheting have never gone out of style. In fact, there has been a real resurgence in the last several years with people forming knitting clubs, with blogs and vlogs sharing all kinds of information on yarns, patterns, designs, and more. This is a very specific book. It covers mittens and socks. That’s it. Simple and focused. But it is rich and varied in these areas. There are fifteen projects identified as Knitted Mittens, four for Fingerless Mittens, only two for Crocheted Mittens, four for Embroidered Mittens, and five for Socks. In addition, there is an interesting discussion of something called Nalbinding Mittens, a process for knotless knitting, and a special section for Glorious Mittens and Socks, which is not for the faint of heart. The grandiose and complex patterns are reminiscent of knit products from long ago in northern Europe. Each project starts with size of finished product, recommended yarn, size of needles, amount of yarn needed, gauge, and skill level followed by step-by-step instructions to complete the project. All also have photographs of the finished product. Those who knit and crochet on every level will want to add this beautiful book to their craft libraries. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
Marlinspike Sailor’s Knots and Crafts: A Step-by-Step Guide to Tying Classic Sailor’s Knots to Create, Adorn and Show Off By Barbara Merry International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press, $18.00, 112 pages Check this out! They say ever ything old becomes new again. This book is a great example of that saying. There was a time when sailors at sea for months at a time would put their knot tying skills to making decorative objects. It seemed to be a lost art, but fortunately some have kept it alive and now Barbara Merry has put together a terrific book full of interesting projects anyone with some practice and perseverance can make. The introduction has a very complete discussion of the kinds of and sources for materials used in these projects. Projects include simple things such as napkin rings and dog collars and shopping bags to much more complex and beautiful projects as a decorated carafe and a decorated picture frame and even a rope hammock. Every project is thoroughly instructed through photographs and drawings showing every turn and knot. Also included is a list of materials and tools necessary to successfully complete the project. There is something for everyone to make in this fine book. It should become a popular favorite with groups such as the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts as well as art classes. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
A Field Guide to American Houses: The Definitive Guide to Identifying and Understanding America’s Domestic Architecture By Virginia Savage McAlester and Lee McAlester Knopf, $50.00, 880 pages Check this out! The variety of architectural styles of houses in the United States is mind-bogglingly broad. Now there is one place to go to understand what constitutes particular styles of homes and what diversities can fall within the categories while still remaining true. The book opens with a section on how to use it and a pictorial key and glossary. This is followed by a section named Looking at American Houses with subcategories of Fashions, Shapes, Anatomy of American Houses, and Neighborhoods. These are followed by Folk Houses, Colonial Houses (1600-1820), Romantic Houses (1820-1880), Victorian Houses (1860-1900), Eclectic Houses (1880-1940), Modern Houses (1900-Present), and Styled Houses Since 1935. Each
of these has several sub-sections. Over 1600 photographs and line drawings clearly demonstrate the multitude of styles and sub-styles. The text explains identifying features, principal subtypes, variants, and details. If this is not enough for someone, there is a “For Further Reference” section 24 pages long. There is little one could want to find out about American housing styles and features that will not be found in this extraordinary reference book. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
Yoga Mama, cont’d from page 9 breathing techniques, guided meditations, and chants. There is also a chapter on labor and birth: asanas, marma points, aromatherapy, and more. Bachman delves briefly into the postpartum period as well. There are natural remedies for the discomforts of pregnancy, delicious-sounding recipes scattered throughout (and a short appendix full of them), and even ideas for journal topics, if you are so inclined. No matter what your interest level is, there are sections in this book that will appeal to anyone interested in a mindful pregnancy! Reviewed by Holly Scudero
Read and download digital issues of your favorite magazines for free! • Choose from more than 125 magazines, including popular, children’s and Spanish selections. • Read online or download to your computer or mobile device. • Keep downloaded magazines forever! Visit TulsaLibrary.org/emagazines and use your library card 24/7 to read and download eMagazines. This free service is funded by the Tulsa Library Trust.
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 10
Book Reviews Category
Cookbooks SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Ultimate Diabetes Cookbook: More Than 400 Healthy, Delicious Recipes By Diabetic Living Editors Better Homes and Gardens, $19.99, 480 pages Check this out! Diabetes and its forer unner, prediabetes, have become increasingly common in our society. The good news is that diet can go a long way to help both cond it ions. The Ultimate Diabetes Cookbook makes that diet not only easy, but wonderfully delicious and varied. On first thumbing through this cookbook, the pictures immediately catch the reader’s attention. Gorgeous color photos immediately leave the reader with the impression that these recipes will leave no one feeling deprived. On the contrary, recipes like Italian Sausage and Zucchini Quiche, Lamb Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, Lemon Couscous with Asparagus, and Mocha Shortcakes with White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse can only make one look forward to improving his or her diet. Furthermore, this cookbook has over four hundred recipes divided into sections including: breakfasts, home-baked breads, soups and stews, sandwiches and wraps, grilled favorites, slow cooker suppers, entrees for company, snacks and desserts. Furthermore, each recipe not only contains nutritional and exchange information, but also states the carbohydrates per serving at the top of each page. Whether you are prediabetic or diabetic, looking to avoid those conditions, or cooking for someone who has one of them, The Ultimate Diabetes Cookbook will quickly become one of your favorite cookbooks. Reviewed by Annie Peters
The Cheesy Vegan: More Than 125 Plant-Based Recipes for Indulging in the World’s Ultimate Comfort Food By John Schlimm Da Capo Lifelong Books, $19.99, 256 pages Check this out! Everybody loves cheese! That love often deters wouldbe vegans from committing completely, and longer-term vegans often still find themselves craving cheese, a craving that most store-bought dairy-free substitutes fails to satisfy. Enter John Schlimm’s The Cheesy Vegan, a delightful new cookbook that will actually teach you how to create your own non-dairy cheeses using ingredients such as cashews, nutritional yeast, agar, tofu, and various seasonings. Some of the “cheeses” require cooking, while others simply need to have the ingredients combined and then cooled. The resulting vegan cheeses can then be used in a wide variety of ways, and the rest of the cookbook is devoted to providing readers with all kinds of recipes to try out! From Soups & Salads (such as Oktoberfest in a Bowl or Broccoli & Cauliflower Salad) to Suppers (Angel Hair Pasta with Ricotta & Herb Sauce), Mac ‘n’ Cheese (Parmesan-Cheddar-Swiss Skillet Macaroni) to Cheesecake (Strawberry Cheesecake), you will not know where to begin to get your cheese fix. And every single recipe is vegan, made using homemade vegan cheese or store-bought if you so prefer. Get ready to indulge! Reviewed by Holly Scudero
Gluten-Free Entertaining By Olivia Dupin Fair Winds Press, $19.99, 176 pages Check this out! So many people have issues with gluten in their diets that it would seem to be something that could put a real crimp in party planning. Not anymore. Olivia Dupin has put together a book that could well become a bible for party planning without issues. The book opens with some information on what gluten-free really means and continues with a good section on how to plan the perfect party. There are two major sections: Celebrating the Holidays and Special Occasions. The first has plans for a New Year’s Eve Cocktail Party, Passover Seder, Easter Brunch, Giving Thanks Celebration, Christmas Cookie Exchange, and Christmas Dinner. The second covers Kid’s Birthday Party, Game Night, Impress a Date Night, Summertime Picnic, and others. Each plan has a time line of things to do ahead, a menu, and recipes for everything on the menu. Each recipe has an ingredients list, easy-to-follow directions, and a Chef’s Tip. There are over 100 recipes and many have beautiful photos to get your juices flowing. Anyone who enjoys entertaining will enjoy this book, and now with all these gluten-free recipes, everyone will enjoy being part of the party. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck Paleo Sweets and Treats: Seasonally Inspired Desserts That Let You Have Your Cake and Your Paleo Lifestyle, Too By Heather Connell Fair Winds Press, $21.99, 176 pages Check this out! Every time one turns around, it seems, someone is talking about the Paleo way of cooking. But how can one take care of those cravings for something sweet if one has no grains or sugar in the diet? Here’s how. Heather Connell has put together a cookbook that will wipe out such cravings. She begins with a
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 11
section telling how she came to the Paleo way of eating to correct health problems she faced, then explains the basics of the Paleo diet. She even has a section to help people set up their pantries for Paleo baking. There are sections for each of the four seasons so bakers can use fresh produce when it is in season for these delicious treats. Having trouble finding any of the ingredients? She has that covered, too, with a Resources section in the back with web addresses for where to buy and suggested Paleo blogs. In between are eighty lip-smacking, mouthwatering recipes with forty of them shown in gorgeous photos. All have complete ingredient lists and easy-to-follow directions along with a personal anecdote. If you are not already a proponent of Paleo, this book could convert you. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck Better Homes and Gardens Baking: More Than 350 Recipes Plus Tips and Techniques By Better Homes and Gardens Better Homes & Gardens, $29.99, 528 pages Check this out! Nothing says comfort food like home-baked goods. But many people find the idea of trying to bake pretty daunting. It doesn’t need to be that way. This book will take the fear out of baking for anyone. A twenty-one-page section at the beginning covers baking basics more completely than one can imagine. It covers everything from what tools and ingredients will be necessary to how to prepare the pans or make substitutions when one runs out of something. All kinds of cookies, bars, brownies, cakes, cupcakes, pies and tarts, cheesecakes, and other desserts can be found here. The section on decorated cakes is worth the price of the book on its own. In addition it has an excellent section on yeast and artisan breads, quick breads, and morning favorites. Top that off with holiday baking and everyday baking, and you have a book that leaves no kind of baking uncovered. The photographs are close-up and beautiful and instructive. Several places in the book have a series of small photos that instruct a particular skill in the baking process. This would be a welcome addition to any kitchen no matter how much or how little experience one has. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
Book Reviews Category
Biography & Memoir SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Talk About a Dream: The Essential Interviews of Bruce Springsteen By Christopher Phillips, Louis P. Masur Bloomsbury Press, $20.00, 464 pages Check this out! Talk About A Dream, which collects interviews of Bruce Springsteen, is a long and fascinating chronicle of the development of one of the most famous and influential musical artists of contemporary times. In thirty-two interviews from 1973, when Greeting From Asbury Park, N.J., debuted, to February 2013, Springsteen reflects on his life, the artistic process, music, and poli-
tics. One gets here a fuller and more complete sense of this artist who represented the times for more than forty years. He is still going strong and has survived the
deaths of some of his famous band members, including Saxophonist Clarence Clemons. In interviews the book captures the big change that happened in his music from his early rockout music to solo projects, and his later country or folk sound. Springsteen went from being influenced by Elvis and Dylan to appreciate the likes of Roy Rodgers, Hank Williams, and Woodie Guthrie. He was inspired by folk music and has been a musical activist who has played a part in presidential campaigns. Springsteen did not reinvent himself, but he expanded his audience and concerns since Born in the USA. For some this was a turn for the worse, but as shown here he never forgot his struggling American fans. Reviewed by Ryder Miller Jim Henson: The Biography By Brian Jay Jones Ballantine, $35.00, 585 pages Check this out! When it comes to legacies in entertainment, there are few as beloved, as cherished, as wholesome, and as influential as that of Jim Henson. A creator who championed technological breakthroughs and family values alike, Henson left an indelible mark on television, cinema, and the art of puppetry by dedicating himself to brightening the world with his stories.
Jim Henson: The Biography charts the life of Jim Henson in affectionate detail, from his humble roots to the stag ger ing fame and influence he would accrue in his all-too-short time on Earth. Jones manages to make even the stuff you know engaging, including an impressive opening chapter tracing Henson’s lineage that is as charming as it is informative. But this is no whitewashing; Jones is unflinching in his portrayal of Henson and company’s less flattering moments, offering the full three hundred sixty degrees on the legend and those who populated his life and work. That willingness to tell the whole story doesn’t make the book any less enchanting or enjoyable. With insights from family, friends, coworkers, and admirers, Jim Henson: The Biography is a worthy tribute and a thoroughly entertaining read. I am more humbled and appreciative of Henson’s work than I began. Reviewed by Glenn Dallas
O C C J I n t e r fa I t h t r I a l O g u e 2 014
Sunday, Feb. 2 • 2-4 P.M. Peace academy 4620 S. Irvington
Sunday, Feb. 9 • 2-4 P.M. boston avenue united Methodist Church 1301 S. Boston
The OCCJ Trialogue Series is made possible in part by the Tulsa Library Trust’s Alfred E. Aaronson Lecture Series Endowment. Call OCCJ at 918-583-1361 or visit www.occjok.org for a list of speakers. Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 12
Sunday, Feb. 16 • 2-4 P.M. Congregation b’nai emunah 17th and Peoria
Book Reviews Category
History & Current Events SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
The Rise of the Tudors: The Family That Changed English History By Chris Skidmore St. Martin’s Press, $29.99, 464 pages Check this out! The story of Richard the Third, the last king of the Plantagenet line and the last king to die on the field of battle, is known to most through the play by Wil liam Shakespeare. But Shakespeare’s play was fiction and was written, in part, to please the royal house of Tudor who controlled the throne when the play was written. This book examines much more than the famous battle at which Richard the Third lost his life; it begins much earlier and discusses what led up to Richard’s short and bloody reign, who the players were, and why the battles were born. The author’s extensive research shows at every twist and turn of this labyrinthine story of the houses of Lancaster, York, and Tudor. This period in British history is so rich and convoluted that not many could tell the story well, yet Chris Skidmore not only tells it well, but shines a light in every dark corner and tells where all the bodies are buried. While the history of this book is impeccable, it does not read as a history book, but as easily as the story of romance and crime and mystery that it is. Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck Kennedy and Reagan: Why Their Legacies Endure By Scott Farris Lyons Press, $27.95, 400 pages Check this out! Political pundit Scott Farris, author of the best seller Almost President, sets out in territory where few others might dare to go. Amid the polarized political climate of today when Democrats and Republicans can find no common ground, Scott compares the ultimate icons of both parties side-by-side to show us what Presidents Kennedy and
Reagan had in common. A lt hough the men were born only six years apart – one from hardscrabble origins that suffered through the Great Depression, and the other from one of the wealthiest families in the world – it would seem that any comparison between these two men would be a ludicrous endeavor. After all, Democrats continue to seek among their ranks another liberal Kennedy while the GOP searches for the next Reagan within the ultra conservative camp. Scott, however, looks beyond the shell of politics to reveal similar traits within both men that morphed them into such remarkable leaders that decades later their names still score top positions in poll after poll of America’s favorite Presidents. While both presidents pursued similar military and economic policies which now define the current distinctions in the two political parties, their lives form “bookends” to a turbulent era in American history. Reviewed by C.D. Quyn The SBS in World War II: An Illustrated History By Gavin Mortimer Osprey, $25.95, 256 pages Check this out! The Special Boat Squadron was formed by the British during the Second World War to infiltrate, harass, and disrupt the enemy in the Eastern Mediterranean. They magnified this command greatly. They were recruited from other special forces, volunteering for less structured and more interesting soldering,
and highly trained in insertion, hiding and escape. They were men who virtually took back the Aegean islands from the enemy, then continued in support of the regular army in Italy, Yugoslavia and Greece. Their combination of ruthlessness, adaptability, help from the local peoples and courage made their contribution much greater than their numbers. They were precursors to the SEALS and other special forces of today. The missions are astounding. Never more than one hundred men, they were feared and deadly. The book is written third person; the author interviewed the men of the squadron still living; thus there are lots of first-hand experiences and anecdotes of what their service was like. The men had great camaraderie, and a sort of reckless humor that makes the reading feel like being part of the squadron. This is a book about men who fought and fought well. It is well worth the time it takes to learn of their heroism and honor. Reviewed by Ralph Peterson The Physics of War: From Arrows to Atoms By Barry Parker Prometheus Books, $25.95, 340 pages Check this out! The Physics of War is a good balance of science and history in a very readable format. Barry Parker parallels the theory and inventions behind the military victories and defeats of many armies and rulers. The phys-
ical properties of copper versus wood explain why the Egyptians stopped the Hittite advance. The physics of a longbow, and the distance and force of an arrow that could penetrate armor defeated superior numbers of French Knights at Crecy and Agincourt. The Romans used the physics of the lever and applied torque to produce siege engines capable of knocking down a city wall. The development of rifling in the barrel of a gun gives the bullet better ballistics, accuracy and range based on the physics of gravity and angular momentum. Artillery, submarines and airplanes are detailed. Finally the physics of the smallest particles of matter, atoms, gives us the most powerful weapon to date. The book is developed by examples, each invention being illustrated by a battle or war in which it was decisive. There are many anecdotes and the book moves quickly through history. It is an engaging look at the physical forces behind the weapons of war. Reviewed by Ralph Peterson
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Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 13
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Book Reviews Category
Science Fiction SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
In Space No One Can Hear You Scream By Hank Davis, editor Baen, $15.00, 336 pages Check this out! F r o m editor Hank Davis, this is a fascinating and dark collection of stories which feature elements of both science fiction and horror. This is not the first attempt to do such and these stories could be considered “hybrids”. The book pays tribute to H.P. Lovecraft who was famous for his cosmic horror
stories, but he did not set his stories on other planets or celestial bodies. Some of the assembled writers, both old and new, pay tribute, and some of those places out there in the galaxy can be scary. The stories themselves are here for fun being a little nebulous rather than sharply drawn. There are a number of those ‘monsters out there in space’ stories. Some are military. Some alone on other planets wonder if their minds are playing tricks with them, but almost anything is possible in this vast arena. It is a pleasure here to read these famous writers who will draw one to this anthology. The Introduction is also interesting giving one a trip down science fiction’s memory lane. Most of these situations are far away from us in place and time, with us still being sometimes the scariest thing out there. Reviewed by Ryder Miller
erful magic she possesses. Fate bring the two together in the sea-side resort town of Brighton where the circus never comes. Surely Dick, the vengeful husband won’t find her there. Was it fate that brought her to Brighton, or magic? Steadfast is an entertaining read exploring themes of risk, responsibility, and relationship. The ninth novel in Mercedes Lackey’s Elemental Masters fantasy series, Steadfast is enjoyable and reels you in right from the start. The setting is in an alternate 1900 era England where magic is ever present, though often hidden. The pace of the story is good, with well integrated glimpses that explain back story components enabling the book as a standalone or read in concert with others in the series. Lackey never disappoints and Steadfast doesn’t either. Reviewed by Vicki Hudson
Category
Fantasy
her sister died, Corrine reached for her as she fell, and her vision went blue and then black; when Corrine woke up, her sister was dead. Now Corrine has done her best to isolate herself from everyone, afraid that she will kill someone else. But then she meets Rennick, who believes that she does have a secret power... the power to heal, that is. And Rennick won’t leave Corrine alone until she starts to believe in herself too. Gina Linko’s new novel Indigo is a refreshing departure from most young adult stories. Straight forward with just a hint of the supernatural, Corrine is a relatively believable character with a power roughly based in something that science might indeed discover someday. There is enough romance to hook you, but with only one love interest; it’s nice to get away from the tired “love triangle” idea so prevalent in most YA fiction these days. Don’t be surprised if this one hooks you. Reviewed by Holly Scudero
Traveling the Mother Road this Winter?
SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Mage’s Blood By David Hair Jo Fletcher Books, $26.95, 704 pages Check this out! Mage’s Blood is the first in a new high fantasy series by an author who has already made a name for himself in writing YA fiction. Indeed, this book shows David Hair as a very assured author who has produced one of the best fantasy books of the year so far. The result on the page is all the more remarkable when you consider the lack of originality in the bulk of the plot elements on display. We have different factions of magicians disputing the right to rule the world. To explain how the magic system works, there’s a Harry Potter- type school
Indigo, cont’d from page 8
thread plus what happens to him and his two friends when they graduate. One elderly magician buys a wife because he sees the future will turn out better if he sires children. And there’s a pair of ex-lovers working as spies to destabilize a state in a key geographical position if the planned invasion is to succeed. Yet the quality of the characterization and the pleasingly unsentimental development of the three plot threads make the book a joy to read. Even though it’s long, it’s a must-read for all those who enjoy intelligent fantasy. Reviewed by David Marshall Steadfast: (Elemental Masters #8) By Mercedes Lackey DAW Hardcover, $25.95, 320 pages Check this out! Lionel Hawkins is a soldier retired from the King’s service due to his wounds. Katie Langford is a woman on the run from a murderous brute of a husband. Trauma, pain, fear - all potent combinations when tied up in a fire mage. Lionel’s a master fire mage, he can control his gift. Katie is fragile and also untrained and unknowing of the pow-
Download the Guide to Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives for diners on this route and many others.
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 14
Book Reviews Category
Romance SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
Dangerous Curves Ahead: A Perfect Fit Novel By Sugar Jamison St. Martin’s Paperbacks, $7.99, 368 pages Check this out! The average American woman is a size fourteen so it is very curious that romance novels rarely feature female characters whose descriptions seem to reflect this statistic. Sugar Jamison has created a character that the spunky, sassy, and looks like the typical woman you see every day. Readers will love
Ellis; she’s rudely sarcastic, has body image issues, can’t find clothes that fit right, has a love/hate relationship with her sister, and gets the hot guy. Mike is trying to figure out what he wants from life and meeting Ellis, again, makes it even harder. He and Ellis are clearly a match made in heaven but they just can’t seem to get it together. Mike has commitment issues and Ellis has trust issues. Sugar Jamison has created a cast of real-life, laugh-out-loud funny characters. Dysfunctional families, loyal friends, and vindictive exes surround the main characters which make the story leap off the page making it seem more like a sit-com than a book. Dangerous Curves Ahead is an unexpected treat for readers. Be sure to add Sugar Jamison to your list of go-to authors for a feel-good read. Reviewed by Jennifer Moss
Category
Historical Fiction SNAP IT for additional book summaries.
What She Left Behind By Ellen Marie Wiseman Kensington, $15.00, 336 pages Check this out! Izzy hasn’t had an easy life. Her mother is in prison for murder ing Izzy’s father, and now Izzy has been moved to a new foster home in her senior year of high school. She’s had plenty of experience being the new kid, but it’s different as a senior. And she will face her eighteenth birthday soon, that time when the foster system will wash its hands of her. All that is nothing to what she
faces at school, when the school princess/ bully takes in instantaneous hate to Izzy. Izzy’s foster parents invite her to help them with a museum project, finding artifacts at a long-closed insane asylum, Willard. It is there Izzy discovers the sad story of Clara, sent to the asylum by her father to prevent her from being with her true love. But Izzy doesn’t only find out about Clara’s love while working at Willard; she finds love for herself as well, but it’s complicated. This amazing book tells the stories of two women divided by many decades, both facing overwhelming odds. The stories are told in alternating chapters, but these stories, despite their great differences, have similarities and are destined to come together. This is a great read! Reviewed by Rosi Hollinbeck
Tulsa Book Review • February 2014 • 15
Circle of Honor Ceremony H o n o r i n g
Ruthe Blalock Jones Saturday, March 1 • 10:30 a.m. Hardesty Regional Library, Connor’s Cove 8316 E. 93rd St. • 918.549.7323 The Tulsa City-County Library will induct Ruthe Blalock Jones into the Circle of Honor. The ceremony recognizes an American Indian for his/her achievements and contributions that have enriched others’ lives and celebrates the inductee’s action in the face of adversity, commitment to the preservation of American Indian culture and legacy for future generations. Jones, of Shawnee-Delaware-Peoria descent, began her work as an artist at age 10 under the tutelage of Charles Banks Wilson. She attended Bacone College in Muskogee, Okla., and earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Tulsa in 1972. In 2011, she was appointed commissioner of the Indian Arts and Crafts Board by the Department of the Interior Secretary Kenneth Salazar. She is director emeritus and associate professor of art at Bacone College. Her works focus on the traditional American Indian ceremonial and social events. They are recorded in paintings, drawings, limited-edition prints in linoleum block, woodcut and serigraphs. Sponsored by the Tulsa Library Trust, Tulsa City-County Library’s American Indian Resource Center, the Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation, Cherokee Builders Inc., Dr. Frank and Mary Shaw, and the Friends of the Tulsa City-County Libraries.
Honoring Saturday, Feb. 8 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Rudisill Regional Library 1520 N. Hartford • 918.549.7645
Susan L. Taylor, founder of the National Cares Mentoring Foundation and editor in chief emeritus of Essence magazine, will receive the 2014 Sankofa Freedom Award. The award is given biennially by the African-American Resource Center and the Tulsa Library Trust to an African-American who has made a signiďŹ cant contribution to the history and culture of African-Americans. With a message of engaging adults to spend at least one hour a week mentoring young people, Taylor will address social, literary and economic issues facing communities today. A book signing will follow her presentation. A private breakfast for sponsors will take place at 8:30 a.m., followed by the public program at 10 a.m. To become a sponsor of the Sankofa Freedom Award, contact Tulsa Library Trust and Development Director Larry Bartley at lbartley@tulsalibrarytrust.org.
Sally Frasier