Two fine novels for spring reading

Two novels, one a classic Western set in 1885 Nevada, the other centered on Barcelona and the aftermath of the Spanish Civil war, snagged my attention this past week. I was busy, but every time I caught a break, I was on the front porch, enjoying the May weather and turning the pages.  

Good medicine and Mother’s Day — a book, a poem

All of us, to one extent or another, make our way through a world of unexamined phenomena. 

It’s a complex world, and we generally glide through it without thinking too much of its parts and machinery. We all carry mini-computers in our pockets, but ask us to explain how we can look at the screen of our phone and read a newspaper from New Delhi, and the best most of us can do is shrug.

Staring up at the branches on ‘Berry Lane’

A month ago, on a day that was officially in winter but which felt like spring, I was walking in the woods near my house.

‘The Midnight Post and the Postbox Clock’

Author Sarah Dean will host a special reading and signing from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 13, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville. 

Celebrating libraries means ending book bans

I’m no extremist. I like discourse with people who hold opposing viewpoints. You can sway me with sound arguments. I feel enlightened when coming away with a better understanding of why people think the way they do. 

An old-school mystery for leisurely reading

For me mystery novels are summer. They are captivating, enjoyable and the perfect thing to read on a vacation.

Helprin’s new novel shows off his skills

It was another ordinary day when I swung by the public library on my way to town. I picked out a couple of DVDs I needed — “Groundhog Day” and “Ghosts” — and then drifted along the “New Arrivals” bookshelves, browsing the authors and titles.

Partner content: Reading List

Periodically I like to share some of the books I’ve been reading.  Would love to hear what’s on your Kindle or nightstand so be sure and email me: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Novel is a lyrical trip to the Scottish Highlands

“Caledonia” was the Latin name used by the Roman Empire to refer to the part of Great Britain that lies north of the River Forth, which includes most of the land area of Scotland.

A unique self-help guide: ‘The Artist’s Way’

It’s always beneficial to revisit a classic and Julia Cameron’s “The Artist’s Way” (J. P. Tarcher/Putnam, 1992, 272 pages) is one I’ve circled back to very often.

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