Anthology Book Co.

New Anthology Site!

2010-03-14T11:06:00.003-06:00

The reason for the long silence on this blog is finally explained! We have moved our site to:
http://anthologybookcompany.wordpress.com/

You can find the blog portion of the new site at:
http://anthologybookcompany.wordpress.com/our-blog/

And, finally, the RSS for the blog is at:
http://anthologybookcompany.wordpress.com/feed/

Hope to see you there!

The American Booksellers Association Winter Institute: What is on the edge?

2010-02-12T13:35:00.002-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending the ABA's Winter Institute in San Jose, CA this past week, on behalf of Anthology Book Company. Close to 500 independent booksellers, publishers, authors and speakers spent 3 days looking at the state of independent book selling, advances and insights into digital media, trends in reading, economic concerns, and much more. Publishers gave overviews of the newest titles to be released this spring; advance reader copies were available, and many of us packed up boxes of books to send back to our respective bookstores. When your bookseller is informed and has read the newest titles, we are then able to promote and share those titles with you when released. That is a sweet aspect of our job!

I met people from as far away as New Zealand and as close as Fort Collins, CO. There was one constant variable in the assembly: everyone there was passionate about books! It was amazing to see, hear and consider the importance of supporting local businesses, promoting local authors, networking with other local businesses and finding ways to help assure that in this troubled economy. Creative social media has lent a hand in connecting people, via e-newsletters, blogs, Facebook and other sites. There are even Twitter-based book clubs! The bottom line is physical books have been around for centuries, and they "ain't goin' away" anytime soon. If you use a Kindle or other pda, let us know. How can Anthology best serve you, our customers, in making reading a convenient and valued aspect of your life? E-books were all the discussion: we need to be aware and ready to meet the demands of digital books now and in the future.

I encourage your comments.

Clear Mind

2010-02-06T15:59:00.007-07:00

Being able to attain a state of being where the mind is clear from thought is an interesting premise. It would seem that we are constantly thinking and projecting our egos onto the world. There are some people who believe that it is feasible to clear the mind and live in a higher state where we are no longer separate from the rest of the world. In my experience, the people who believe this to be true are enlightened or darned close to enlightenment. Most of the time I cannot even conceive of a time when my mind can be clear. Personally, it is helpful to read about the experiences of others and what they believe the clear mind to be. My interpretation can differ in many ways from the interpretation of wonderful poets. However, there is a certain quality in the words used that have a common ground with my idea of the clear mind....

Be a bud sitting quietly on the hedge.
Be a smile, one part of wondrous existence.
Stand here. There is no need to depart.
- Thich Nhat Hahn

To Have Done Nothing
by William Carlos Williams

No that is not it
nothing that I have done
nothing
I have done

is made up of
nothing
and the dipthong

ae

together with
the first person
singular
indicative

of the auxiliary
verb
to have

everything
I have done
is the same

if to do
is capable
of an
infinity of
combinations

involving the
moral
physical
and religious

codes

for everything
and nothing
are synonymous
when

energy in vacuo
has the power
of confusion

which only to
have done nothing
can make
perfect

Watching the moon
at dawn,
solitary, mid-sky,
I knew myself completely:
no part left out.
- Izumi Shikibu

A Coat
by William Butler Yeats

I made my song a coat
Covered with embroideries
Out of old mythologies
From heel to throat;
But the fools caught it,
Wore it in the world’s eyes
As though they’d wrought it.
Song, let them take it
For there’s more enterprise
In walking naked.

Through these words the poets express that life is limitless in its possibilities of experience. Life is open to interpretation and the answer that we seek is not always the answer that another seeks. Maybe this is the way to enlightenment. We have to experience life the way we initially see it to be. Then we change our perception and open our minds to a groundless reality where we are connected to everything and nothing all at once.

Happy reading Anthology friends!

Art

2010-02-05T10:18:00.002-07:00

As an artist, much of my inspiration comes from books. I know many other artists who are the same way. Literature has the power to create such a vivid image in the mind of the reader, to render the mental image onto paper or canvas is almost irresistable, for me at least. An excellent example of an artist inspired by a book is the recent display at the Loveland Museum and Gallery of Salvador Dali's illustrations of Dante's The Divine Comedy. Dali illustrated every stanza of the Divine Comedy, which must have taken a considerable amount of time, whereas I usually have only one piece of art inspired for a book. Here at Anthology, we have a wealth of novels and books on many subjects sure to inspire the inner artist in anybody. Are you one of those people that are assured that they have a creativity deficiency? I personally believe that every person, whether they know it or not, has at least some untapped creative potential, albeit in the deepest part of their being. At Anthology, we have something to inspire everyone, whether you are the seasoned artist, beginner, or the creatively deficient. In our art section we have many books of collections of some of the most famous artists of all time, including Michelangelo, Rembrandt, or Picasso. Some of my favorite books on art are not the collections, but the books intended to inspire or jumpstart the creative process. "The Artist's Way", by Julia Cameron is a wonderful resource to help discover your own spiritual path to creativity. We also have "Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters" by Robert Hale, where you can learn the techniques of Da Vinci, Goya, and other master artists. For the people itching to do something creative but just don't know where to start, I recommend "Coloring Mandalas" by Susanne Fincher. In this color book, the outlines of mandalas (symmetrical, usually radial designs, used by the Buddhist tradition to support spiritual healing and well being) are already created; all you have to do is fill in the color for a potentially beautiful design of your own. We've also got some awesome books filled with the work of local artists. "Sculpture in the Rockies" showcases some of the best sculptors around, located right here in Colorado. John Fielder also has some great books in our store that highlight his impeccable talent to capture the majesty of the mountains and ranches of Colorado. Anyone interested in another local artist's work, myself, can view my artwork on Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/mfredric88 under the heading "photos". Thanks for reading and have a lovley weekend!

February

2010-01-29T12:39:00.002-07:00

There are exciting displays and events happening at Anthology during this' sweetheart' of a month!
Be sure to come in and browse the books that depict African-American authors, poets and events, in celebration of Black Awareness Month. From Alice Walker to an anthology of black poets, you will find an interesting look into the events, artists and issues that shape our American heritage.

Ready to party on Fat Tuesday? Look no further for inspiration than our Mardi Gras display in the front window! And what would Loveland be without a love-inspired book display? Browse to your heart's content. We also have the Loveland Valentine cards and cache-stamped envelopes. I served years ago as the chair of the Loveland Valentine Museum, which is now housed in the Loveland Museum and Gallery. This wonderful tradition really lends a sense of community to our little town.

Music for your Night on the Town will be provided by John Mieras, local singer/songwriter. Have a romantic dinner, stroll the DoLo streets and come in for books, coffee and song, Friday the 12th of February from 6:30 to 8 pm.

Life is good in Loveland!

Foodie? Not me

2010-01-22T14:05:00.002-07:00

I have found that one of our most popular genres at Anthology is cooking. Ranging from french cuisine to BBQ, you would be sure to find the perfect addition to your stack of cookbooks in your kitchen. Did someone mention kitchen? It's become a place I try not to frequent these days; rather I am content to graze on nuts, yogurt, an apple, my daily V-8... well, you get the picture.

So what is up with food? From Hell's Kitchen to Iron Chef to Chopped...celebrities and chefs are all finding a way to cash in on our most vulnerable body part: the stomach. Our Winter Catalog offers several selections in cooking including The Deluxe Food Lover's Companion (Sharon Tyler Herbst $29.95), Earth to Table: Seasonal Recipes from an Organic Farm (Crump & Schormann $34.99) and Love Soup (Anna Thomas $22.95). Jamie Oliver even declares an uprising in his book, Jamie's Food Revolution ($35). If you wax poetic about food, look no further than the 'Magnetic Poetry Kit: Foodie'. We have it! "Good food fills me with happiness."

I must admit, there is comfort in browsing the cookbook stacks. I lean toward vegan and vegetarian fare, including The New Moosewood Cookbook (Katzen $19.95). Anything with fresh fish, pasta, homemade stews and soups...even on a rough day there's hope when you own a copy of 101 Things to do with Ramen Noodles (Patrick $9.99).

Stop in! Bon appetit!

A Paradigm Shift

2010-01-08T14:12:00.002-07:00

When the Loveland newspaper did a story on local retailers and gift-buying just before Christmas, Anthology was not only highlighted but a delightful color photo of our store manager graced the page. Those of you who know Teresa will appreciate how she always provides excellent customer service with a smile, while paying close attention to the needs of those who shop here.

It was apparent that more and more people became aware of Anthology and what we have to offer over this past holiday season. Teresa stated in the article that "a lot of people we help say they are trying to support local business". Customers would remark that they wanted to buy from us, rather than head out to the chain stores. Comments and sentiments such as these certainly brought a smile, and sense of pride, to the Anthology staff.

Could there be a shift in what was once a different view of shopping? One customer remarked how nice it is to "talk with a real and caring bookseller" while I assisted her in finding a book on the shelf. Others are slowly coming around to the importance of supporting local businesses; often commenting on the lower price at one of the chain or big box stores for paperbacks or gift items. I simply smile as I hand them their purchase and thank them sincerely for shopping with us.

If we don't do what we can to protect the independent businesses in America, we will lose sight of some very important values and economic tenets. "Independent" may be defined as "higher quality, more focused and less restrictive" business practices. "Local" implies we are in touch with our region, city and state, while offering titles, services and goods that appeal to those who shop here. "Community" is a giving back; sustaining and embracing what makes a town a unique and desirable place to live, work and play.

Together, Anthology is proud to be your independent, local bookstore in Loveland. Thank you to all who make the effort to support Anthology Book Company and to shop locally.
Bridget

Poetry

2010-01-08T10:37:00.003-07:00

Since it is a slow day here at Anthology, I feel this would be an appropriate time to write a blog. Poetry. So much can be said about poetry. Poetry comes in many forms. The sonnet, song, haiku, and prose are only a few. Poetry often contains rhyme, metaphor, or alliteration, but not always. Poetry, I think, is almost as old as language itself. Some of the oldest poetry that comes to mind is Homer's Odyssey, the Psalms of the Old Testament, or even the ancient Hindu Vedas. For me, almost nothing speaks as much to the human soul as poetry. Poetry, as is all art, is appreciated and interpreted in the eye of the beholder. It has the power to bring joy, emanate love, sadness, or any other range of emotion either intended by the author or not. But above all, I feel that poetry has the power to transform the consciousness of the reader and the author. Many poets speak of the healing and meditative effects of composing and reading poetry. From experience I have discovered that poetry can be created in a sort of automatic fashion, growing straight from the subconscious mind, to manifest thought or emotion that cannot always be expressed by the rational mind. Poems are always subject to interpretation. Poems, like dreams, can have layers of interpretation. The initial reaction of the reader is almost always different when the poem is read again, at a different pace, different time or in a different light. I find that the meaning of poems often shifts when read more than once. So the meaning of a poem is a plastic, malleable concept, limited only by the consciousness of the reader. From my perspective, poetry is a very noble and beautiful art form, limited only by the human imagination, which the collective history and experience of, has proven to be infinite. I encourage all readers, whether you consider yourself to be a poetry reader or not, to occasionally dive head first into a poem. It is a much smaller commitment than a novel, and you just never know, it may change your whole perspective of life.
To end here, I will quote one of my favorite poems:

Ring the bells that still can ring,
Forget your perfect offering,
There is a crack in everything,
That's how the light gets in.
-Leonard Cohen

Have a wonderful weekend!

What Now? Read of course!

2010-01-02T14:07:00.004-07:00

This December I graduated from CSU with my Bachelors degree in English. After all the hype has died down from this happy occasion and the Holiday season, I find myself thinking 'what shall I do now'? I will not be venturing on in the world of academia until this fall. That means I have more than half of a year to work at this wonderful bookstore and pursue whatever activities I find interesting. I have thought of doing numerous things with my time off, but the thing I want to do most is READ. I did read quite a bit for class, but we all know that reading for class and reading for pleasure are not the same thing. So... here is my reading list for this winter, spring and fall:

The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
Cave in the Snow by Vicki MacKenzie
Wizard's First Rule by Terry Goodkind
The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordan
Wishin and Hopin by Wally Lamb
The Hour I first Believed by Wally Lamb
Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon

This is an extremely short list. If you have any book suggestions please leave a comment. Please remember to shop at your local, independently owned bookstore. Thank you for reading and have a Happy New Year.

Looking Ahead

2009-12-18T14:21:00.000-07:00

As the event and public relations coordinator for Anthology, I have the pleasure of working closely with authors and local musicians in providing readings, book signings and entertainment at the bookstore. We have brought three interesting evenings to our clientele since October, including a wonderful mix of prose and East Indian music with Bhanu Kapil's reading from Humanimal and Aakash Mittal's blend of jazz fusion.

In November, Young Adult author Laura Resau braved a cold and snowy night to travel from Fort Collins to Loveland for a very intimate evening of discussion and stories. Her books, What the Moon Saw, Red Glass, and the Indigo Notebook are insightful accounts of youth and their search for understanding, friendship and love. Over a cup of tea, Ms. Resau shared what inspired her books, travels to Mexico and Latin America countries, and revealed the depth of her characters in a way that reaches not only youth, but adult readers as well.

December we kicked back with what I would list as one of the most talented singer-songwriters I have heard in recent years. Baily Stauffer packed the house while delivering soulful, penetrating guitar, keyboard and vocals. I would compare her to Tori Amos; offering her own special blend of heartfelt emotion in her raw and transparent lyrics. Especially touching was her lovely rendition of O, Holy Night, in a nod to the Christmas season.

I have a special gift for you in January. After the holidays, you may be thinking of taking a road trip, a short journey, a vacation...you won't want to miss Trent Newcomer as he reads from his award-winning book, The Call of the World. Part travelogue/part memoir, Trent shares his insightful and candid accounts of his solo backpacking trip around the globe. Did I mention awards? Winner (Travel Essay)-2009 National Best Books Award (USA Book News); Medalist (Travel Essay)-2009 Independent Publishers Book Award; Finalist (Travel/Travel Essay)- 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Please join us as we host Trent Newcomer at the bookstore January 8, 2010 from 6:30 pm to 8 pm. The event is free. Please mark your calendars for a wonderful evening with this young man. The Call of the World will be available in our bookstore next week.

February brings an evening of music the 12th of February (artist to be determined) and author Sally Bonkrude on February 25, 2010 from 6-7:30 pm. Ms. Bonkrude is a performance coach and author, who's book Conscious Performing helps offer positive inner change and excellence. I will have more information on this after the first of the year.

I hope you will post these dates and events on your 2010 calendars! It would be a pleasure to see many of our customers come out and support both local musicians and authors. Peace and blessings to you in the New Year.
Bridget

New Around the Store

2009-12-11T14:39:00.002-07:00

With the Holiday season in full swing, I know that it is easy to get overwhelmed. (Especially with all the commercials on TV, and the ads in every paper you grab.) So I thought it would be fitting to give everyone a little heads up on what is new around the store. This morning we received a lovely order from the amazing toy maker, Melissa & Doug. They specialize in wooden toys, and classic toys. There are lovely puzzles, Rainbow Stackers, and magnetic dress up dolls that are filling the children's section. We also Klutz toy books.

Another wonderful gift idea that arrived this morning are the new NPR CDs. This is a new idea that we are trying out; we get six different CDs that are being played on NPR, every six weeks. This shipment includes Rosanne Cash's "The List", Norah Jones' "The Fall", and the timeless classic "A Charlie Brown Christmas".
We also received lots of new books that are bound to be great Christmas gifts. Keri Smith's "How to Be An Explorer of the World," which is a wonderful book/journal in the same style of her beloved "Wreck This Journal". We have several copies of the intriguing "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo", and of the heart-warming bestseller "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society". When you swing by the store to peruse the shelves for the perfect gift, feel free to ask our knowledgeable staff for recommendations. Happy Shopping!

2009-12-03T10:05:00.002-07:00

I have never considered myself a "mystery/crime" reader. Late last year, I picked up "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson and flew through it. Pretty sure I didn't even pause to sleep while reading that book. After finishing that amazing book, I was shocked that I wanted to read some more books that are located in the mystery/crime genre. After many suggestions, I picked up one of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books. It was a easy, fun read that I was able to complete in one sitting, but I found it lacked the substance that I had found in Larsson's book. I don't consider myself a book snob, but I was not really thrilled with the heavy hitters of the mystery/crime genre. I read James Patterson, Diane Mott Davidson, and I even tried Patricia Cornwell, but I was still hungering for a more juicy plot. This is when one of my co-workers suggested "Shutter Island" by Lehane. I agreed to read it for two main reasons. #1: My co-worker has always suggested wonderful reads. #2: I had happened to see a preview for the upcoming movie that stars Leonardo DiCaprio (and I always have to read the book before I see the movie).
I will be quite honest, that book sat on my night stand for about a month before I picked it up mid-morning one Saturday. It grabbed my about 30 pages into the story, and after that I could not put it down. I read all afternoon, and into the wee hours of morning. The story takes place on Shutter Island, which is located off the coast of Massachusetts, that is home to a mental institution. It follows the investigation of two U.S. Marshals on the hunt for an escaped patient. That is all I feel comfortable about giving away the ending, but I will say that I was completely taken aback by the ending. I had to re-read the ending to make sure that I had read it correctly the first time through. Swing by the store to grab your copy before the movie comes out, or grab it for a wonderful Christmas present for that person in your life who loves a good web of intrigue.
When you stop by the store, I would love to hear suggestions for more "mystery/crime" books. I think that I am hooked :)

The Holidays at Anthology

2009-11-23T18:33:00.002-07:00

The staff decorated the store this past Saturday; I came in to find golden snowflakes, red and green bulbs, and ornaments adding a festive touch to the displays. We celebrate Thanksgiving this Thursday, and my mind holds still to the harvest colors, pumpkins, colored corn and gourds. But in our society, Thanksgiving marks the start of a mad-dash of holiday shopping, Black Friday deals and the ever-increasing need to find the perfect gift for those on your list.

Anthology Book Company is offering a wonderful collection of regional books from the Mountains & Plains Independent Booksellers Association Winter Catalog. We have been excited to bring these excellent titles to you since we first previewed the collection in late September. Our shelves are stocked with copies of new books ranging from history, fiction, cooking, children's titles and memoirs, to books that speak especially well to the issues and people of the West. As our gift to you, we are able to extend a 20% discount off any title in the Winter Catalog and will order titles in for you, should our supply run low. And of course, our stacks hold many used, rare and collectible books sure to please, as well. What could be better than combing the shelves of an independent bookstore?

My mantra is take things slowly, live in the present, be mindful. So I will slowly take down my fall decorations in my home and then bring in holiday items acquired over the years. And I too will think of loved ones and review the catalog as I move into holiday shopping mode. There couldn't be a better place to shop, than here at Anthology. Peace.

Bridget

Pattern Recognition

2009-11-05T15:56:00.003-07:00

It's been a while since William Gibson's Pattern Recognition came out, and I still haven't managed to read it. I enjoyed Neuromancer very much, but haven't been impressed by some of his other work.

Nevertheless, this interview in the Blackbird Archive is fantastic. Most of it, you'll notice, is an extended meditation on what constitutes Science Fiction. This is important. I know I can't give a real answer as to why it is- many more eloquent than me have tried. But I get so tired of the dismissive, "oh, I don't read scifi."

There is an extraordinary body of work that satisfies all the requirements of science fiction but is not marketed as such. The Time Traveler's Wife is about a time traveler, for example, but it's still in the Contemporary Lit section so everyone reads it. Likewise Gregory MacGuire's fairytale re-imaginings like Wicked would be perfectly at home in the scifi section - you wouldn't even have to change the covers. Hundreds of CIA and crime thrillers deal with future weapons and genetic engineering and spy technology - but they have lots of guns, so that's okay.

But more than the tropes listed above, science fiction is a way of thinking.

As the review says;

The next matter to be settled is genre. William Gibson is a science fiction writer, so is this science fiction? The answer is yes and no. Unlike Vonnegut, who goes to some pains to say he's not writing science fiction even when he is, Gibson never shies from the label, even though he's perfectly aware it's not so simple a tag as it once was. Pattern Recognition is set in the present with no aliens or secret technologies. The plot turns on nothing more exotic technologically than chat rooms and posted film clips in a very recognizable Internet. Recently, Neal Stephenson's Cryptomonicon, as fat as Pattern Recognition is lean, was largely treated as a science fiction novel by reviewers, bookdealers, and readers, even nominated for sf awards, though the main action involves the breaking of the Enigma code of World War II and isn't science fiction in the usual sense. China Mieville's Perdido Street Station, on another end of the spectrum, seems science fictional even though it takes place in a Dickensian steampunk world with no connection to ours.

Science fiction, in effect, has become a narrative strategy, a way of approaching story, in which not only characters must be invented, but the world and its ways as well, without resorting to magic or the supernatural, where the fantasy folks work. A realist wrestling with the woes of the middle class can leave the world out of it by and large except for an occasional swipe at the shallowness of suburbia. A science fiction writer must invent the world where the story takes place, often from the ground up, a process usually called world-building. In other words, in a science fiction novel, the world itself is a distinctive and crucial character in the plot, without whom the story could not take place, whether it's the world of Dune or Neuromancer or 1984. The world is the story as much as the story is in the world. Part of Gibson's point (and Stephenson's too for that matter) is that we live in a time of such accelerated change and layered realities, that we're all in that boat, like it or not. A novel set in the "real world" now has to answer the question, "Which one?"

Via Science Fictional. That post also has a link to this interview with William Gibson, equally interesting.

Autumn brings change

2009-11-03T08:38:00.001-07:00

When I was young, I welcomed the start of autumn more than any other season. It meant new shoes and notebooks, colors and grasses dying back, and the daylight slipping away into night. Autumn still is my favorite time of year, as I find myself pulling on a sweater for warmth and searching for just the right book in which to lose myself.

I too am changing with the season, as far as reading preferences go. No longer do I want the quick light reads of summer; books that are easily picked up and set down as you carve out of few minutes to read between outdoor activities, vacations and muggy nights. No, autumn demands books with depth; tomes that draw the reader in and offers a respite. Animals begin their task and order of hibernation, preparing for months of quiet sleep. Ahhh...sounds blissful, huh?

So, what to read on this cold November night? I look forward to starting the latest E.L. Doctorow book, Homer and Langley (Random House). Although a novel, I like historical fiction. The lives of New York's fabled Collyer brothers will intrigue and hold my interest, much like Doctorow's Ragtime and City of God.

Then there are the well-noted titles that remain on "my list": The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Diaz; People of the Book, by the impeccable Geraldine Brooks; Out Stealing Horses by Petterson (I tried this in the summer; it's definitely a winter book); The Book Thief by Zusak...I am afraid my list goes on. I am never short of books to read, but find myself quite particular about the mood and timing of my choices.

Some people say they will read whatever they can get their hands on. I tend to be more selective. Perhaps that leads me back to my thoughts on autumn and books. As a child we gathered by the fire on cool fall evenings and my father read the poetry of Robert Service and James Whitcomb Riley to my siblings and me. I can see the leaves falling outside the farmhouse window, watch the corn stalks die back after harvesting, hear the cattle settling in the barn...yes, autumn is about change, but perhaps more than not, it remains the same.

Lovely Poem

2009-11-02T23:10:00.003-07:00

The Summer Day by Mary Oliver

Who made the world?
Who made the swan, and the black bear?
Who made the grasshopper?
This grasshopper, I mean--
the one who has flung herself out of the grass,
the one who is eating sugar out of my hand,
who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down--
who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes.
Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face.
Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away.
I don't know exactly what a prayer is.
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down
into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,
which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done?
Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?

I was extremely fortunate to have a wonderful teacher share this poem with me over the weekend. Even though it is not summer it holds meaning for all seasons. There is not much to say about this except that have learned a lot from this poem and the context in which it was given. I will always remember and refer to this poem in times when I know that changing the self is a necessary process. To be able to change ones perspective and admit ones faults seems extremely essential to me. I think this poem represents the frailty and ever changing life in and around us all. I love it and I'm sure it means different things to different people. For me it is a precious gift and a wonderful reminder.

Anthology

2009-10-18T11:49:00.004-06:00

Anthology Book Company is the name of this store, but it is not just a name. One of my favorite things here at Anthology Book Company is explaining to customers how to spell anthology. Even better, I quite enjoy getting to explain to customers what anthology means. Quite surprisingly, I have many people who ask what anthology means. Sometimes customers think that anthology is a made up word that sounds like a fancy name for a bookstore. While it is a fancy name for this bookstore anthology is so much more than a name.

According to dictionary.reference.com anthology means:

"1. a book or other collection of selected writings by various authors, usually in the same literary form, of the same period, or on the same subject: an anthology of Elizabethan drama; an anthology of modern philosophy.
2. a collection of selected writings by one author."

From this definition we can deduce that anthology is not just a fancy name for a bookstore. Anthology is a definition that helps to categorize the literary world. Anthology is also so much more than a name for this store. Anthology is a haven for book lovers as well as the Loveland Community. There is so much that goes on in this store besides the selling of books. Just last week a woman came in to our store to thank Teresa. This woman was from out of state and was so grateful that Teresa is able to fulfill her needs by sending her the books that she loves. Our goal in helping our customers is that they will become lifelong readers and truly enjoy the magic that books hold. Anthology is a definition but it is more than this. It is something special in our community as well as the literary world.

Happy reading Anthology customers!

Fall Events at Anthology Book Company

2009-10-15T13:25:00.002-06:00

It's been a busy fall with many exciting things happening in the book world of Loveland. In late September, Stephanie, Teresa and I attended the Moutains and Plains Independent Booksellers Association Trade Show in Denver. Two days were devoted to learning more about social marketing, surviving in this economy, hearing from publishers as to the "top picks" in new books; it was a great experience! We came back enthused and encouraged to broaden our marketing focus, find ways to attract and retain loyal customers and with a list of books to read/sell at the store.

Then two great events happened the first week of October, with Loveland Loves to Read hosting Wyoming author, Craig Johnson. His first novel, The Cold Dish, was a hit with a wide variety of readers and the Rialto Theater was filled with a welcoming crowd of folks who were eager to snatch up his other 4 novels, including the latest, The Dark Horse.

Later that week, the US Poet Laureate(1997-2000) Robert Pinsky came to Loveland as part of the Loveland Poet Series. He offered an informal talk on his poetry project, Americans' Favorite Poems, held at the Loveland Museum and Gallery. Later that evening, following a sponsors' reception, he spoke to a packed house at the Rialto. Dave Beegle performed acoustic guitar in an opening number, then was brought back by Pinsky to join him in the reading of the poetry. It truly was a magical evening, and what a delight to see so many people appreciating the art of poetry.

Anthology hosted another special event, on the 9th of October, bringing Bhanu Kapil and Aakash Mittal together for an evening of original work. Bhanu read from her latest book, Humanimal, while Aakash and his ensemble performed improv jazz, drawing from his East Indian roots. "Rhythm is melody" was the underlying theme of the collaboration, as I introduced the artists to a welcoming audience of about 40 individuals. The lovely fall day turned to a brisk and snowy evening, yet folks lingered and sipped coffee well until closing time. This Night on the Town event brought out the best of Loveland's supportive locals, and visitors from as far away as Boulder and Denver.

Join us in November when award-winning young adult author Laura Resau offers a chat and signing of her latest book, The Indigo Notebook. Laura will join us for Night on the Town, November 13, 2009 at 7 pm at Anthology. Her books, bio and other information may be found at www.lauraresau.com This is the perfect opportunity to bring your pre-teen and teen readers, to meet an accomplished writer who understands and relates well to the young adult reader. A child who reads will be an adult who reads, and always be a life-long learner. Plan to have a light dinner out on the town in one of our fine restaurants in Loveland, then join us at 7 pm to meet Laura Resau.

Happy reading!
Bridget

Online Resources for Book Lovers

2009-10-03T17:45:00.004-06:00

The internet is awash with websites having to do with books, for books, and about books. I have yet to actually read a book on my iTouch because I cannot bear the thought of not having the feel and smell of a physical book in my hand. I have downloaded a few classics in case I am without a book and I'm standing in line at the grocery store. I haven't actually made the effort to read an e-book though.

I won't bore you, dear readers, with my paper-in-hand philosophies but I will tell you of magical places on the internet where I like to go. There are three websites that I frequent regularly that have helpful advice to support my book addiction.

The first website is www.Goodreads.com. This website is dedicated to helping you keep track of what you read. You can also review the books you read and invite all of your bibliophile friends to see what you've read. Maybe you would like to keep track of what you would like to read. Goodreads provides you with a personal queue of the hundreds of thousands of books you want to read in your lifetime. Goodreads is a magical place where book lovers can frolic in recommendations or join specific forums for topics that interest them. The website is free. There are advertisments but let me tell you that they are not obnoxious. You don't even really notice they are there because they are book related.

The second website is www.LibraryThing.com. This for the hard core bibliophile who cannot ignore the urge to catalog and catergorize their entire personal library. Like Goodreads, it connects you to other people who share your similar interests in books. If you have anti-social tendencies and don't care who shares your interest in similar books, LibaryThing can be an online resource you use store the soft copy version of your library. I live for organizing my books. All 2,518 of them. LibraryThing helps me manage this addiction. Let's talk prices. You can store up to 200 titles for free. An annual membership is $10 per year. The lifetime membership $25and there is no limit to how many books you can add. It really is a lovely place to utilize.

Now to complete the trilogy of booklover websites. LibriVox.com is a website dedicated to bringing readers the audio version of books that have passed their copyright (pretty much anything before 1923). These recordings are available to listen to for free. These recordings are read by average people like you and me who volunteer their time and voice. Someday when my two year old allows me to have some free time I will volunteer my own voice.

I would LOVE to learn about some of the websites that our readers utilize when it comes to their reading habits. Happy reading!

2009-10-03T11:35:00.003-06:00

Recently, I have joined a book club that reads more than one book a month, and these books follow a theme. In September, we read books that had been translated into English. They were all fantastic reads, by the way :) This month, in honor of fall and my favorite holiday (Halloween) we have chosen to re-visit some of the timeless horror novels. We have chosen to read Pet Semetary by Stephen King, The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty, Swan Song by Robert McCammon, and a personal choice between Darkfall or Intensity by Dean Koontz.
To be honest, I have never read any of these books, and only recently have I seen the movie versions of "The Exorcist" & "Pet Semetary". (To go off on a tangent, "The Exorcist" scared me so bad that I slept with the light on and my phone gripped tightly in my sweaty fist just in case I had to make an police call at 4am.) Working in a bookstore, I see numerous copies of different King and Koontz books leave the store but personally I have only ever read some of Koontz' work.
Our reasoning behind selecting these books, and not others, are just personal reasons. I wanted to read The Exorcist to see if the book is more frightening than the movie, which I think it will be and I will spend many a night with the lights on. A fellow book club member recommended Swan Song, stating it was her favorite McCammon book and that it still gives her the creeps, even though she has read it numerous times. Pet Semetary was a mutual choice, given that King is a master of horror tales and the fact that raising the dead for selfish reasons is scary. (Again, on a tangent, the little boy (Gage) in the movie version is so terrifying, to me, that I get the chills just thinking about his creepy face :)
Swing by the store during the month of October to check out our Horror section, and our Fall/Halloween display. See if you can't find a book that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up!

Banned Books Week

2009-09-19T13:41:00.007-06:00

"There Is A Voice Inside Of You That Whispers All Day Long,"I Feel That This Is Right For Me,I Know That This Is Wrong."No Teacher, Preacher, Parent, Friend Or Wise Man Can Decide What's Right For You- Just Listen To The Voice That Speaks Inside." - Shel Silverstein

Every year many bookstores set up displays to honor Banned Books Week. While this is highly publicized in the book world I feel as if our customers don't really understand why we celebrate Banned Books Week.

There are several reasons why we celebrate. We at Anthology Book Company feel it is important to have the freedom to choose what you read. We will order any book that the customer requests. We also do our very best to carry what our customers like to read. Upholding the freedom to choose your own book is a great responsibility. It is not only the bookstores who celebrate Banned Books Week. Newspapers, libraries, schools and many others celebrate as well.

It is more than a week to show what has been banned, it is a week to celebrate the printed word as well as freedom of speech. In this country we don't always realize how much our freedom to choose impacts our lives. While we have many freedoms our choices are still being banned. Just because you don't see something does not mean it is not there. Every year several books are challenged because an individual or a group is uncomfortable with what message they think the book conveys, but this is not always well known.

Even here in our lovely community of Loveland books are challenged. This year Loveland High School assigned Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko as reading in an upper level English course. This book was challenged as well as celebrated for its content. "A Loveland parent is questioning why her daughter had to read a book with explicit language and sex scenes in her 11th grade International Baccalaureate English class."(http://www.reporterherald.com/print.asp?ID=20530). This book underwent much criticism and featured two articles by Loveland High School Students telling why or why not the book should be read in class. While we do not question why an individual cares for a book or not, we find it disappointing when the freedom and intellectual integrity of students as well as other individuals is challenged.

Banned Books Week is about opening ones mind to different and wonderful books. One book that I really enjoyed this year was A Universal History of the Destruction of Books by Fernando Baez. This wonderful little books discusses the history of the written word and why we are afraid of letting others have an open mind. "without books there is no memory, and without memory, a culture cannot exist." - Fernando Baez. I find it extremely frustrating to only get part of a text, or to be deprived of something I could have read because someone else did not like the message. This little book is very big in content, and directly addresses this issue.

I have one question for all of you; what if someone told you you could not read your favorite book because they didn't like it? Most of us would be extremely upset and feel as if our freedom is being taken away. I challenge you to keep an open mind and encourage other people to do the same. Reading is a precious gift that no one should be deprived of.

"Banned Books Week (BBW): Celebrating the Freedom to Read is observed during the last week of September each year. Observed since 1982, this annual ALA event reminds Americans not to take this precious democratic freedom for granted. BBW celebrates the freedom to choose or the freedom to express one’s opinion even if that opinion might be considered unorthodox or unpopular and stresses the importance of ensuring the availability of those unorthodox or unpopular viewpoints to all who wish to read them. After all, intellectual freedom can exist only where the freedom to express oneself and the freedom to choose what opinions and viewpoints to consume are both met."(http://www.ala.org/).

If you are interested in purchasing these books at your local, independently owned bookstore, or borrowing them from the local library here are the ISBN numbers:

Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko, ISBN: 9780143104919

A Universal History of the Destruction of Books by Fernando Baez, ISBN: 9781934633014

The American Library Association provides a wide array of information on Banned Books Week, as well as other book information. The website for the ALA is: http://www.ala.org/

Banned Books Week is September 26 through October 3, 2009.

To access the article about Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko go to this link: http://www.reporterherald.com/print.asp?ID=20530

Happy reading and Banned Books Week!

New to Anthology Book Company

2009-09-10T16:10:00.002-06:00

Tonight I take my solo wings as I complete training and "officially" join the Anthology Book Company staff. Thanks to Steph, Teresa and those who worked with me over the past two weeks to bring me up to speed on procedures, etiquette and general book sense. In addition to my bookselling duties, I will plan events and handle public relations for the store. A few of my first tasks will be to familiarize myself with the local authors, poets and musicians in the Loveland area. Please feel free to contact me at Anthology should you have interest in discussing a future event with our customers.

I look forward to getting to know our loyal customers and all those who wander into this excellent independent bookstore. Thank you for your continued support. Cool autumn days are ahead...perfect for reading!

Bridget

Present Moment, Wonderful Moment

2009-08-21T16:57:00.004-06:00

Change is upon us here at the bookstore. Many things have happened in our small world of books. Teresa was recently promoted to manager, two of my coworkers are getting ready to welcome new additions to their loving families. Many of us are getting ready to start the next semester of college (including me). Public school has recently started. Several other things are happening in the bigger world as well. We have a new president and our nation is expecting dramatic changes in the political realm. Change is all around us.

In times of change it is important to savour what we have and who we are. I am getting ready to start my last semester of my bachelors degree. This is a huge change. Along with this change I had to make some big decisions about who I am and what I want to do with my life. Long ago I realized that I love school and I especially love college. So, I decided I would get my masters and doctorate degrees. I also do not like waiting for change. Because of these things I decided I would be going to grad school immediately after finishing my bachelors degree. However, things have recently become present that have forced me to halt my fast track in life. Because I was forced to stop and look around I realized something important about life. The best things in life are worth waiting for, working for, loving for, providing for, and hurting for. Sometimes, even when we poor our hearts into what we want so badly, we are forced to stop, look around and realize the great gift that life has provided for us. Wanting and hungering for something is beautiful. We have to live in the present moment in order to have a insatiable need for a better life.

I am making a promise to myself that I will live life consciously. I will be happy in this moment while I strive to live in the next moment more consciously than the last. I will appreciate what I have. I will remember that all of the love and pain leads to a higher consciousness that can only be attained when THIS life is lead to its capacity.

“Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis on which the world earth revolves - slowly, evenly, without rushing toward the future. Live the actual moment. Only this moment is life.” - Thich Nhat Hanh

Thich Nhat Hanh has written several wonderful books on Buddhism. One of my favorites is Present Moment, Wonderful Moment. This blog posting is based on the ideas in Present Moment, Wonderful Moment. Books are wonderful, they help us to supercharge our consciousness. Without this book I would not be able to appreciate the present moment.

If you are interested in purchasing this book at your local, independently owned bookstore, or borrowing it from the local library here is the ISBN number:

Present Moment, Wonderful Moment by Thich Nhat Hanh, ISBN: 9781888375619

"People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air,but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don't even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child -- our own two eyes. All is a miracle." - Thich Nhat Hanh

Book Review: "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery

2009-08-20T17:17:00.008-06:00

Where do I start when it comes to discussing this book? I will start at the part where I was told this book may change my life. I was also informed that this book was philosophical. Now, I'm not sure about life changing but I'm sure that I have a not-so-secret admiration for Philosophy so I gave this book a chance.

This book is a French book translated to English. I am not French. This may be a cultural handicap that may have hindered my full comprehension of the uniqueness of this book. I guess what I'm trying to say is that this book was not as profound as I had expected it to be. Since I am very self aware there were not that many "aha" moments. There were, however, some great points about beauty.

"You eat the way you look at a beautiful painting or sing in a beautiful choir. Niether too much or too little, moderate, in good sense of the word."

I hold an Art History degree but even as an art lover I have struggled with the concept of what art and beauty play in daily life. Oprah may tell you that it's the small things in life. In the case of Paloma, beauty is a rosebud that falls onto a counter and taking in the essence of that delicate fall. As far as the philosophy in this book I was disappointed. While some argue that it was too philosophical I would have liked more philosophizing.

I had a hard time empathizing with Paloma. I don't sympathize with sucidal characters. But I can relate to being a 12 year old that thinks too much about the world around her. I was pleased with her decision in the end. I very much enjoyed Renee. Being an audiodidact myself and growing up less than wealthy I related to Renee. It was because of her that I enjoyed the book.

I gave this book 3 out of 5 stars which is the rating for an average book on Danine's scale of rating books. I would recommend this book but I would recommend reading "Sophie's World" by Jostein Gaarder before "The Elegance of the Hedgehog".

Here are a few memorable quotes:

"But if you dread tomorrow, it's because you don't know how to build the present, and when you don't know how to build the present you tell yourself you can deal with it tomorrow, and it's a lost cause anyway because tomorrow always ends up becoming today, don't you see?" -Renee

"I won't get any better by punishing people I can't heal." -Paloma

Anthology will be happy to check our inventory for "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" or "Sophie's world". If you would like to place an order with us here is the info that will help us place your order.

1. The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery. ISBN: 1933372605. Paperback. $15.00

2. Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder. ISBN: 0374530718. Paperback. $12.00.

Have you read either of these books? What did you think?

Thanks! Gracias! Merci!

2009-08-18T14:13:00.004-06:00

To everyone out there I would like to say thank you, thank you, thank you for all the support that I have received since taking on the role as manager! Everyone who has stopped by has been nothing short of amazing with all the well wishes. It really makes my day, and puts a smile on my face to know that so many of our customers remember my face. I love my job for many reasons but the most important two are; my fantastic boss, Stephanie, and all the wonderful customers that walk through the door everyday at Anthology. Whether you are entering our unique bookstore for the first time, or returning for the thousandth time, all of you make my day worthwhile; so again I say thanks a million for making my day better.

New Books and Old Books

2009-08-09T12:44:00.005-06:00

While shelving books at the bookstore I am always aware of what is happening beyond the shelf where I am shelving. I'm listening for the phone or I am listening for customors who might need help finding a specific book or author. I am aware of sound and conversations. In other words, I'm alert to our guests at the bookstore.

One evening while I was shelving books in the Fiction section I overheard two young boys briskly talking. (I can hear my grandpa calling them whipper snappers). One boy said to the other, "These are old and used books. I don't think they would have it." Before I could ask them if I could help them on their book quest they had quickly left the store. In that flash of an instant, I had a childhood flashback. A positive flashback. I was taken back to my living room whereI was watching an after school special of some kind that involved a scruffy but literate cat. The cat was explaining that even though a book is a used, or pre-read, it is new to the person who has never read it before.

This tidbit of knowledge was groundbreaking for a pre-teen sitting way too close to the T.V. eating Lucky Charms. I sat there agape in this revelation. It made sense! It was an epiphany that launched me into the wonderful wide world of books. No, books didn't have to have shiney covers to be good books. To this day I prefer the dog eared books. I prefer books that contain underlined passages and side notes. I want to get into the psychology of the previous readers. I want to know the life that this book has endured. I want a book with a personal history. Most of all I want the book to feel love when it is placed under may care whether it be for a week or a lifetime.

Moral of the blog entry: A used book is a new book to you if you have not read it. Experience new books. Anthology has hundreds!

The Wonderful World of Vocabulary

2009-08-06T09:28:00.006-06:00

Recently I have been studying to take the GRE. The GRE is composed of three parts. Quantitative, Verbal, and an Essay. When I started studying for the test I knew that I would need work on my math skills. However, being an English major I thought that I had quite a large vocabulary. In order to double check my vocabulary skills I purchased two sets of flashcards to study from. I started by dividing them into two piles. One pile are the cards I do know. The other pile are the cards that I do not know. Once I had all of the cards divided I realized that the pile that I did not know was a lot larger than the pile I did know. This took me back a couple steps. It was humbling to realize that my fantastic vocabulary skills were not up to par with a college graduate.

Here are a few of the words I don't know:

Impecunious - poor; having no money
Imprecation - a curse
Lachrymose - tearful
Legerdemain - trickery
Mendacious - dishonest
Numismatics - coin collecting
Pugilism - boxing
Pastiche - piece of literature or music imitating other works
Salubrious - healthful
Unconscionable - unscrupulous; shockingly unfair or unjust

Here are some of the words I do know:

Inexorable - inflexible; unyielding
Lament - to express sorrow; to grieve
Metaphor - figure of speech comparing two different things
Mollify - to calm or make less severe
Molt - to shed hair; or an outer layer periodically
Pragmatic - practical, as opposed to idealistic
Unequivocal - absolute; certain
Variegated - varied; marked with different colors
Wanton - undisciplined; unrestrained; reckless
Zealot - someone passionately devoted to a cause

Having a large vocabulary is extremely important, not only for taking standardized tests but in order to better oneself within the English language. After I realized that I needed to better my vocabulary I started studying my cards with zeal. I even talked to my coworkers about taking the GRE. They really liked my cards and expressed an interest in knowing new words every day. I also realized in the process of studying, that booksellers really enjoy learning new words. That is half the joy in reading any book. Danine told us that she is signed up for word of the day online and tries to use each word in a poem. This is a great resource for anyone trying to improve their vocabulary. My suggestion is to read as many books as you can. The more you read the better your vocabulary becomes. Plus, reading is fun!

If you too would like to expand your vocabulary here are a few resources:

wordsmith.org (Sign up for word of the day and do your own creative writing!)

Exam Busters New GRE Study Cards : 9781881374800

Kaplan GRE Exam Vocabulary in a Box : 9781607140528

Happy reading and vocabulary building!

A poetry book from London July 11, 1968

2009-08-04T13:17:00.006-06:00

I adore poetry and am always on the look out for my new inspiration of life. Of course there are always the originals: Mr. Poe, Frost and Miss Plate, but I wanted to discover someone. But desires like this don't always come when you are looking and waiting, but when you have no desire to pick up a book of poetry.

I discovered Anne Morrow Lindbergh's The Unicorn And Other Poems the way I usually discover books and authors I have never read: Shelving at Anthology. :) This fantastic hard cover has a dust jacket cover of magnificent character, which is what always first catches the eye. I have seen copies of this book before and also have had the opportunity to read/buy the book before, but like I said before, you cannot control when it is or isn't the right time to experience the pages of a book.

I began to read the book last night and became completely captivated by, what is now, one of my favorite poems. The Unicorn (as refered to by the title) has an ideal thought projected and a strange reflection occured for me. The unicorn has been captured yet is free. The whole concept of attitude is what this fine poem is stitched with. There is physical and there is spiritual. It is a brilliant concept that is forgotten and sometimes forsaken in this day and age. I am grateful that it was brought to my attention and to my heart once more.

A Final Cry is another poem that I have never had the pleasure of reading before but it has forever left a mark. The poem is about life and how minuscule time really is for the human race. The last line says all and should always be remembered:

Praise life, O man,
While yet you can.

Poetry has always been a huge part of my soul and I have so much gratitude toward the Force that brings forth inspiration and creative thought into our lives. Poetry, and in particular the book The Unicorn And Other Poems by Anne Morrow Lindbergh, does it for me. What does it for you?

Board Books

2009-07-31T15:52:00.002-06:00

I officially became an aunt at 12:06 am on July 28th, 2009, and I was thrilled beyond words. The only sad part of this situation is that little Autumn Malia, and her family, live in Hawaii. Not a bad place to visit, and I am already planning a trip to meet her. After the happiness somewhat subsided, I was on a mission to make my niece become a lover of books, just like her aunt. Not having children of my own, I am going to try my hardest to give this little one the gift of the written word.
Some of the books that I had waiting for her, before she even entered the world, were some of the children classics. Books I had growing up, that I believed help to shape my childhood, and my life. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendek, Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss, are just some of the books that were waiting as anxiously as I was for Autumn. All those books are pretty vulnerable to little baby hands, seeing as how they are paper, but Aunt Teresa was prepared for that as well. Working at Anthology, I was able to hit the children's section and find tons of lovely board books, that are impervious to baby hands. Some of these book that I grabbed we books that I had growing up, but many were "new" books to me. I was lucky enough to find Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, and the new books to me, The Feelings Book by Todd Parr and Underwear Do's & Don'ts by Todd Parr.
As I boxed them to send to her, I also sent a long letter to my brother and sister-in-law with strict instructions to read to her everyday. I know that she won't really know what is going on, at least for the first few months of her life when she is being read to, but soon she will begin to understand.
Then, I can sit back, and watch her grow up with all the wonderful worlds that books provide to people, big and small. It has been a very long time since I read any children's books, so any of you that have recommendations or suggestions I am all ears! Hope to see you at the store :)

Books on Kindle

2009-07-31T11:05:00.002-06:00

I've been considering getting a Kindle (an e-book reader from Amazon.com) for some time now. Much as I love paper books (and an entire wall of my house attests to just how much I do!) there is something alluring about the prospect of carrying my library around on a single device. But I have some philosophical issues with the DRM (Digital Rights Management/"copy protection") scheme Amazon has put on these devices to prevent people copying, modifying, or using the books you buy. The EFF has some interesting (and funny!) videos up discussing the issues here.

The EFF has all kinds of cool stuff about how computers and the internet impact our creative life and cultural heritage, focusing on US copyright laws. The info on their site includes anything about intellectual property, copyright duration and public domain, patents and trademarks, fair use, DRM, network security, internet censorship, etc. They also provide legal assistance to people involved in lawsuits around intellectual property. I highly recommend checking them out.

Quotation of the Day (from Shelf Awareness)

2009-07-31T10:13:00.000-06:00

Judging a City's 'Level of Coolness' by its Bookshops

"A good way to judge whether a city has the desired level of 'coolness' is to look at its bookshops. If there is more than one bookshop selling books in foreign languages on an extensive range of topics, from cookery to philosophy, if one can find what one is looking for there and, furthermore, if one is allowed to stroll through the books while having a sip of coffee from the bookshop's café, it is an ultimate plus for the intellectual outlook of the city, enticing for anyone considering moving to that city. Bookshops, with their design, their smell, their location and their staff are among the important visitor's attractions of a city, although not many people think about bookshops as 'places to visit.'"--From Today's Zaman, an English-language newspaper in Turkey.

For the Love of Books

2009-07-27T18:14:00.002-06:00

I love books. This is a simple statement with a lot of meaning behind it. Books drive my life forward in a way that nothing else can. I work in an independent bookstore, I am a literature major, I am even getting ready to apply to graduate school so I can get my masters in library science. All the things that are important in my life are driven by books. Why? Because books are fantastic, beautiful, majestic, exciting, lovely, magical, compelling, and so very much more.

These are a few of my favorite things ....

I love old hardcover books with gilded spines, marbled endpapers, lovely lettering, beautiful line drawings, musty smelling pages, places where the binding and pages are worn because of loving caresses. I love tall, majestic books, with rough edged paper, pages that are smooth to the touch, bold lettering that indicates the beginning of the chapter. Large, old picture books, with beautiful colors and fading, because the reader could not bare to stop loving it. I love when you can see where the book sat on its shelf, near its contemporaries, it sat there so long because it was well loved. I love when I pick up a book that has been well loved because I know that I will love it and treasure it just as much as its previous owner. I love when a book that is obviously old has not been touched because I can worship it for its majestic pages. I love when you can close your eyes and feel the bumps from a book that was read and re-read because its contents are so wonderful. I love when I can sit down in a crowded room and be totally grounded by the words on the page. I love it when I cry because the writing is just so beautiful that you cannot stand the feeling that it has produced. I love it when I cry because I cannot find one of my best book friends. I love to let go of a book and share its glory with others. I love the smell of new books, the crisp smell that reminds me of sun warmed fall leaves. I love book cases where the contents are organized by size, shape, and color. I love coming home and realizing that my books are waiting for me to caress them once again. I love that I can stack books and make pillars that will hold me up when nothing else does.

I love books. Its very simple. There is nothing better.

Happy reading!

The Minds of Children BECAUSE of Books

2009-07-17T13:47:00.003-06:00

There is a place inside every books store and every library that I can't wait to explore. The section in which young minds find magic, hope, adventure and the answer to the most important question: You are not alone.

The Children's Books. I adore this section most of all because it is the most influential, the most colorful and the most passionate, in my opinion. Where else do you find the literature that will make, break or change the future? Children are what will keep this Earth turning and bring forth new ideas inspired from the past and present to the future.

From books like Matilda by Ronald Dahl to Green Angel by Alice Hoffman, I believe that the very ideals and essences of these pages influence in such a way that is to inspire any child to soar and believe in something bigger than themselves and also how to teach their hearts to grow in love and respect for all as well as themselves. There is a depth there that no adult can touch, a world that is all there own.

Some begin with classics like Black Beauty, others with the very early picture-learning books by the ingenius Dr. Seuss. Whatever introduction to the great and magical world of books (Mine was the Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine. :O) ) there will be that ONE book or that ONE series that will mold and frame their lives forever. Those are the books I am interested in reading, studying and experiencing most of all. May our children experience the most precious and essential conclusions for life to be fully, happily and completely lived: To feel known, understood and strong in a world that is created by and only for them. That is where true growth breathes and lives!

Story Telling through Art

2009-07-13T16:01:00.006-06:00

When I think of being a small child there a specific images that flow through my mind. These images are connected to picture books that I read and treasured. Picture books started my love of reading and my love of books. Great picture books, just like fine art evoke feelings of happiness while making us see the beauty that the world has to hold. All of the books that I held dear are still close to my heart as an adult. I love to go back and read them and look at them just as I would look at a beautiful piece in the Denver Art Museum. I don't think children's books have to be critically acclaimed or analyzed in the same way art pieces are evaluated. This is part of what makes them so beautiful. Enjoying them for their simplicity and complexity is part of what makes picture books so magical.

One of the most beautiful books I remember from my younger days is The Maggie B. by Irene Haas. The illustrations done for this book are absolutely fantastic. The tale it tells needs the pictures to rival it in magic and wonderment. The illustrations are incredibally detailed, while the lines are soft. This makes it easy on the eye while drawing the reader into the story. I will always remember this book due to the lovely art that it houses.

Another book that I loved at about the same time as The Maggie B. is Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney. The illustrations done in this book also have a soft feel. The colors are vibrant and well incorporated to flow with the different places mentioned in the story. What makes this book so special is the fact that Cooney has a wonderful message imbedded in this book. She wants her young readers to always remember to make the world a better place to live. This is a wonderful story and the illustrations bring it to life.

The Minpins by Roald Dahl is another picture book that I loved as a child. It was one of the books I read many times up until my teenage years. What makes this book special is the fact that it is a longer picture book written for beginner readers or written so a parent and child can enjoy it together. The illustrations include a lot of trees with the Minpins disguised within the leaves of the trees. This lends to the anticipation that builds up when one wants to know what is going to happen. It is an excellent picture book that all Roald Dahl fans should read.

Another one of my favorite childrens books is Zen Shorts by Jon Muth. I did not add this book to my collection until very recently. It is beautifully illustrated combining Japanese styles with soft American styles. Stillwater the panda is a gentle and wise creature who teaches children that it is always important to think about a situation and be aware of the world around us. The illustrations are rich in detail with soft lines and vibrant colors. It is the perfect childrens picture book.

All of these books are wonderful for the young and the young at heart. They have beautiful stories that are made even better with beautiful illustrations. They are some of my favorite pieces of art. They make me love books and love the art of a book as a package deal. I hope you enjoy reading these to your children and reading them to yourself.

If you are interested in purchasing any of these books at your local, independently owned bookstore, or borrowing them from the local library here are the ISBN numbers:

The Maggie B. by Irene Haas, ISBN: 9780689500213

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney, ISBN: 9780670479580

The Minpins by Roald Dahl, ISBN: 9780142414743

Zen Shorts by Jon Muth, ISBN: 9780545040877

Happy reading for you and your little ones!

Shirley Jackson: Mistress of Horror and Domesticity

2009-06-30T20:00:00.006-06:00

I'm confident that almost every bibliophile has a favorite author that at the utterance of that author's name a smile warms the face and they begin to glow. For me, that author is Shirley Jackson. I was introduced to Shirley Jackson in my American Lit class when I was a freshman in College. I was fresh out of high school and was free from required reading such as "The Great Gatsby” and “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” Professor Fisher had us read short stories and in that collection of short stories was “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson.

What high school Lit did not prepare me for was the power of this short story. I will tell you that it begins in a small American town and the town gathers for a lottery. I will not tell you the prize and certainly not how it ends. I will tell you that this short story traumatized me in such a positive way. It plunged me into the world of philosophical thought and personal debate. I am confident that almost every bibliophile can tell you about the book that changed their life. This short story changed my life in a way that forced me to question every decision with great caution. It made me think about why we as humans have our rituals, the origins of those rituals and why we are, as a society, stubborn to change them despite evolution and demand of modern times.

Shirley Jackson is well known for her stories of horror and fantasy. But what I love Shirley Jackson for is her memoirs about domestic life. Here is a storyteller who wrote one of the most significant horror novels of the 20th century yet she manages to bring me tears of laughter to the topic of domesticity.

The life of a housewife with four children, a husband, a dog and two cats doesn't seem like it could be a lot of fun but Jackson does exactly this. She makes domesticity fun and even throws in a night cap or three. These memoirs, "Raising Demons" and “Life Among Savages” have changed my writing style and how I view my own daily life in a positive way. I get a little depressed due to the hum drum of daily life. Reading these books puts daily life into a humorous perspective and the stories are anecdotes that heal me positive every time. These books are a few of my favorite things.

To hear the 1951 NBC recording of the Lottery click here: NBC "The Lottery: NBC Short Story

To learn more about Shirley Jackson go to: Shirley Jackson

Who Reads This Stuff?

2009-06-29T14:33:00.005-06:00

Upon entering the book store I go through a sort of shedding experience. The moment I pull the door open my nostrils are filled with the glorious smell of coffee. Books and coffee, a most perfect marriage in my opinion. The stresses and concerns I had only a moment before are whisked away in the invisible aroma swirls that dance through the entire store. It only gets better. I am greeted with a “Hello” and a smile from my friend who also happens to be my co-worker. It never fails to occur to me that I work at a wonderful independent bookstore. Working at Anthology has answered a life long question of mine. Who reads this stuff?

Since I don't read Romance, Western or Sci-Fi novels I've often wondered about the people who do read these genres. There is an obvious demand as these sections hold large real estate in the store and the books that reside in these sections proudly sport creased spines. These are sure signs of loved books. In general, I don't read too much mass market paperbacks. Yet the Nora Roberts section is in constant rotation. Being a bookseller has put faces behind the question of “Who reads this stuff?” The people who purchase these genres are lively people who seem to have a common goal in their reading experiences. That common goal is to get away in a book. A 'mindless read' before setting off to the land of sleep. Maybe a working day only allows access to only 5 to 10 minutes of spare time. A work of quick fiction can accommodate such a time slot.

By nature I am an analytical thinker. I keep a journal of every book I read in case I come across a quote I like or a word I don't know. I take notes. Sometimes they are just blurbs and sometimes they are philosophical thoughts. Over the years reading a book just for fun has become a foreign concept to me. I feel that I must be learning something or it's not worth it to read. Working at the bookstore is changing this attitude. I find that most people rather enjoy talking about what they are reading and some are even thrilled. When talking to customers about what they are reading I, politely and in a non intrusive way, ask why they are reading what they are reading. The answer is pretty much the same each time, “to get away.” I also get recommendations and my “To Read” list is constantly growing.

My co-workers and the Anthology customers I meet inspire me to read that book that will allow me “to get away” without having to take notes in my Moleskine journal. Now, I just need to decide what that book might be.

First person smart-ass

2009-06-27T14:33:00.007-06:00

It always surprises me when people like the books I like for the same reasons I like them. I don't know why it should; I suppose my tastes are not so very esoteric. For example, on tor.com, I've come across a number of blog posts and comments about Steven Brust, who is perhaps my favorite author. (As you may remember from my previous post on this blog, about The Phoenix Guards.) And, in a bizarre turn, the author of my favorite webcomic Penny Arcade is also deeply fond of Brust.

This post discusses the structure of Brust's Vlad Taltos series and the futility of reading them in chronological order. I've had almost this exact discussion with a friend about the virtues of publication order versus internal chronological order. Or this post which discusses the terrors of terrible science fiction covers, with particular emphasis on why it's worth reading the Vlad books anyway.

When trying to sell people on the Vlad Taltos series I generally describe them as "imagine if Corwin from Zelazny's Amber books was the hero of Ocean's Eleven". So you can imagine my surprise to find articles and comments agreeing with me; Rojer Zelazny's Amber books probably started the trend of the "First Person Smartass" POV. The combination of a smart guy with a cutting wit and endless competence gets me every time. I simply adore Brust's Dragaera and Zelazny's Amber. Megan Whalen Turner's Gen series (The Thief, The Queen of Attolia, and The King of Attolia) is my current obsession.

I must admit that I love that kind of character even when he's not the hero of the story. Before I came across the term "First Person Smartass" I generally used the (less-pithy) "guy who's a total jerk but is so good at what he does that he gets away with it.

For example, in David Eddings' Belgariad/Mallorean series both Silk and Belgarath are totally that guy (and in The Redemption of Althalus the titular character is basically Silk and Belgarath smushed together into one guy anyway). All my favorite movies have that guy too, although I realize that can't exactly be called first person; Ocean's Eleven, Catch Me if You Can, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Pitch Black, The Princess Bride... Captain Kirk in the new Startrek movie is arguably that guy. Or again on TV, Dr. House is that guy.

It's interesting to note, now that I look at the list, that there aren't a lot of female First-Person Smartasses out there. Maybe the heroine of Janet Evanovich's mysteries? Or the heroine of Laurel K. Hamilton's paranormal romances? Elizabeth Moon has some really tough, competent heroines in Paksenarrion or Ky Vatta... but none of these really have that cutting humor I'm talking about. Robert Heinlein's Friday might qualify (other problems with the book aside).

So who am I missing on the list? I'd be particularly interested to hear any more female names.

Short Stories for Summer Days

2009-06-25T11:58:00.002-06:00

For myself, summer is an excellent time to get out, enjoy the weather, and the long hours of sunshine. My days fill up fast with activities such as hiking, walking the dogs, gardening (although I must admit my garden is looking a little sad, it is my first year for trying my green thumb :), and riding bikes. After spending many hours in the sun, I find that when I finally head home I am exhausted; which makes it hard to read anything. Being an avid reader, I am constantly disappointed in myself when I fall asleep reading a book that I wanted to read in the first place. Well, my friends, I think I have found a solution to that problem.
Currently, I am reading The Best American Short Stories 2008 edited by Salman Rushdie & Heidi Pitlor. In this collection of twenty short stories, there are such authors as the recognizable T.C. Boyle, and Allegra Goodman; as well as some author whose first published work are included in this book. This is an excellent book, to randomly pick up and read from, being the longest story in the book is only about 30 pages. Great for me to read before I head off to Dreamland :)
Although, I do not normally read short stories, I am finding that I am really enjoying this collection. My favorite story, thus far, has to be The Year of Silence by Kevin Brockmeier; that chronicles a city's year of self-imposed silence. Utterly amazing ending; truly a universal message. A.M. Homes' May We Be Forgiven, was so disturbing and shocking that I am still trying to decide if I am glad I read it or not.
On top of being a treasure of short stories, this particular book has been selected to be the Anthology Reader's Circle July book. For any of you out there looking for a laid back, low key book club, that meets once a month, feel free to stop by and check Anthology Reader's Circle out. Recently, we have added an evening book club for those of you that can not make it in the mornings. In July, discussing this particular book, the Circle will meet on Wednesday, July 15th at 6pm, and on Thursday, July 16th at 10am. We love meeting new people, and feel free to read all the stories in this book, or just the ones that "call" to you.
Whether or not you make it to the book club, this is an amazing summer read, that gives you the freedom to enjoy all that summer has to offer. Happy Summer, and Happy Reading!

Re-reading a Childhood Favorite: Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell

2009-06-24T21:31:00.007-06:00

Recently, due to a class on Adolescent's Literature, I had the opportunity to reread one of my favorite books from my childhood. At first I was hesitant, as I thought that perhaps I would not enjoy the book as I once did, or that my fond memories of it would be dashed. I got over my concerns and reread Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. This short novel for 8-12 year olds won the Newberry Award in 1961. It has also been named one of the Top Ten Young Adult Books of the Past 200 Years, which is quite a statement, as there are many wonderful YA books available.
This novel follows Karana as she builds a new life for herself after she is left behind when her entire tribe leaves their island. This is loosely based on the actual events of a Native American woman who lived alone on an island off the California coast for 18 years. Karana not only survives, but thrives, during her time alone. When her tribe leaves the island, Karana realizes her brother is not on the ship, and she jumps overboard to join him back on their island. He dies shortly after, and she is alone. She expects that someone will return for her, but they never do. (In reality, the entire tribe was decimated by disease and were completely wiped out.) Karana has many adventures on the island, including taming and befriending a wild dog, avoiding sea otter hunters, and sewing a skirt from cormorant feathers. She remains on the island completely alone for eighteen years. In the end, Karana is discovered and “saved” from her island. The irony is that her “rescuers” end up inadvertantly causing her death 7 weeks after bringing her to the mainland, due to disease and dietary issues. The story of Karana allows youngsters to find power within themselves and to see themselves as individuals who are capable of making independent decisions that matter.

Twenty years have passed since I first read Island of the Blue Dolphins, but the themes of family, isolation and identity still resonate with me. I still love the book, and I am glad I chose it for my re-read. I got to re-experience my childhood but I also got to enjoy the book from a new perspective. My husband is an archaeologist and I couldn’t help but notice all the details that are historically accurate based on artifact evidence found from this culture. It was interesting to see how O’Dell interwove historical data with storytelling to create this wonderful story which seems so lifelike. I had forgotten that the book is based (however loosely) on the true story of a Native American woman who lived alone on this island. As an adult, I have access to the internet (which was not available in the mid-80s) and I looked up (on Wikipedia) information about the actual island and the woman who lived there. I found it heart-wrenching to discover the island is now used as a weapons testing site for the US Navy, and that her cormorant skirt (which was real) was given to the Vatican and they lost it. I’m glad I did not know these things when I was younger. The themes of adventure that resonated with me as a child changed into themes of isolation and identity as I re-read. I could feel the loneliness of the main character, as a person alone on an island, but also the more poignant loneliness of being the last of her family, her tribe, her culture. I think that one of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much as a child was because I identified with that sense of being alone in the world. I think all kids have this feeling to some extent, and that is probably why they relate to this book. I also love that Scott O’Dell chooses to write about female protagonists. This is one of the few books when I was young that had a realistic, strong female rather than a Pollyanna-type main character. I am glad I got the chance to revisit this book and it has inspired me to reread some of my other favorites from when I was young to see how my experience with them will change and develop.

Have you read any books from your past lately? If so, which ones? What is your reaction to them now?

If you have not, which one would you choose? What did it mean to you when you were a child?

I would love to hear your thoughts!

Laura

Southern Gothic at its BEST

2009-06-23T15:20:00.006-06:00

I'm sure many people have heard of the Sookie Stackhouse books by Charlaine Harris. Or, you have seen the HBO series True Blood (which is based on the Sookie Stackhouse books). No question that Charlaine Harris has very entertaining characters and writes a fun novel. She has introduced the modern world to the macabre of Southern gothic. Harris is not the first, nor will she be the last to write about the majesty of true Southern culture. If you like Harris I would recommend the KING of Southern gothic: William Faulkner.

As funny as it is dark, one of Faulkner's best novels about the South is As I Lay Dying. Faulkner shows the desperation of a family trying to move on in life through a physical and mental journey to bury their mother. Don't mistake Faulkner for one who is saddened by death. The journey that this family takes is hysterical because they are living life through purely selfish means. Faulkner does not write them as selfish characters nor does he write them as sympathetic. He writes them as they are and does not dance around the issues that face us all. From the moment where the youngest boy drills holes in his mother's corpse Faulkner has you rolling around laughing and questioning your own sanity.

I was deeply moved by the genius of William Faulkner. I was also horrified by the motivations of people to think of themselves first. At the same time I know that if you do not question your own motivations for living you end up waiting to die just as the characters in this novel. Faulkner writes about the the human condition as played out in the South, and he does a damn good job of it.

"Sometimes I aint so sho who's got ere a right to say when a man is crazy and when he aint. Sometimes I think it aint none of us pure crazy and aint none of us pure sane until the balance of us talks him that-a-way. It's like it aint so much what a fellow does, but it's the way the majority of folks is looking at him when he does it."- William Faulkner, As I Lay Dying

If you are interested in purchasing either of these books at your local, independently owned bookstore, or borrowing them from the local library here are the ISBN numbers:

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris, ISBN:9780441016990
As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner, ISBN: 9780679732259

Happy Reading! - Greth

Summer Reading

2009-06-12T18:13:00.004-06:00

When I look for a good fiction book I think I am like everyone else and I look for something that will grab my attention right away, someone who tells a good story, characters with many emotional layers, at least decent writing, and the list can go on and on. However, I believe that books, like food, coats, and bathing suits have seasons where they fit best. Certain books fit comfortably into specific seasons with ease and grace. Since we are in the midst of the summer holiday from school, and the season when most people take vacations, I think I have two books that are perfect for summer reading.

Something to keep in mind about me is that I don't usually care for books that others would label 'beach reads'. This is especially true about the summer. Hypothetically speaking, if I were going to read a 'beach read', I would read one during the winter when my brain gets bogged down and I have too much to do for my classes. Anyway, getting back to what I believe makes a good 'summer read' . . .

During the summer, after my senior year in high school I read one of my very favorite books. This book changed my perspective on entertaining fiction. Maybe this is due to the fact that I felt that I was at a crossroads in my life and I needed something that would take me from one stage of my life to the next. That summer I read The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. This book is a great piece of feminist fiction that tells the story of King Arthur from the point of view of the important women in his life. Bradley changed literary history by re-writing one of the greatest legends ever told. It is a moving piece about the roles that women embody in a world dominated by patriarchy. However, it is so much more than the words on the page. To me, this is what makes up a good summer read. Good summer reading should be something that makes you think that you have just read the epitome of perfect fiction.

It has been five and a half years since I graduated from high school. I am now getting ready to start my last semester of my bachelors degree. I am also in the process of applying to library science school for my masters degree. This summer is also a crossroads in my life. At the beginning of my summer hiatus I was struggling to find something that I could completely fall into just as I did with The Mists of Avalon. When I started looking for a book to read I did not know I was looking for something similar to Mists. However, when I finished Outlander by Diana Gabaldon I realized it was exactly what I was looking for. Outlander has much in common with Mists. It is written from the feminine perspective, with emphasis on the independence of women. It balances the perfect historical novel with the perfect fantasy novel. It was exactly what I was looking for and so much more.

For me, The Mists of Avalon and Outlander are perfect summer reads. They are written well and are just plain entertaining. In my life these novels represent so much more than just good fiction. These books are seasons in my life that I will always remember. I am proud to carry them as part of my reading history and would recommend them to anyone.

If you are interested in purchasing either of these books at your local, independently owned bookstore, or borrowing them from the local library here are the ISBN numbers:

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon, ISBN: 9780440212560

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley, ISBN: 9780345350497

Happy Summer Reading! - Greth

French Milk and the works!

2009-06-06T12:10:00.003-06:00

Recently I discovered the travel book French Milk by Lucy Knisley. One of my now top favorites! I couldn't put it down! Mostly because it is "written" in comic form, but that isn't the point. :) It is a delightful story about a young woman and her mother who take a vacation to Paris. Lucy is 21 years old and spends her 22nd birthday there. How great would that be?!? I am 23 and I have only been to the four-corner states, no further! I wanna go...Anyway, the story is wonderfully hilarious and fun. You follow her as she describes the delectable breads, wines, cheeses, her struggle being away from her boyfriend, the interesting people she meets, and the art and culture that surrounds her every step. This book, regardless of the illustration presentation that might possibly be a turn off, inspires you to poor you a glass of wine, set the mood with Paris-like instrumental music and enjoy an hour of humorous cartoons and a real-life adventure from the eyes (and hands) of a young lady growing from the young lady to a woman. (And in Paris! Okay, I am done. :D )

P.S.
I highly recommend this books for those days when you are alone and want to feel like you have a good friend near OR those nights when you want to rest your head and inspire your dreams. Enjoy!!!

How many booksellers does it take to put in a light bulb?

2009-06-06T11:05:00.003-06:00

Imagine it...one lady holding the light screen, two other ladies moving a metal books display and yet another lady picking up all the books that fall from that display. Now imagine this happening three times within a 10 minute period! A normal situation at Anthology Book Company. It is a good thing light bulbs don't burn out everyday! :) We are so lucky to have a team of great girls who have different talents (and heights)! Without even one of us, especially Greth (the tallest of us all), the job would have never been as sufficient nor hilarious. And we are so blessed to have a boss that isn't above helping put in a light bulb! Thanks Steph!

A day working behind the book counters is never boring. There will always be at LEAST one customer that will make (or break) your day, a book or 3 you find that you never knew you were looking for, but KNOW that you were meant to read it, and then of course, there is always the chai at the Coffee Tree. I never tire of that. :) You can't beat being a bookseller. But it would be nice if the light bulb would quit going out ( and if other light bulbs wouldn't follow the example).

hehehe

Blood and Chocolate

2008-08-14T19:12:00.003-06:00

Provocative. Full of angst and desire. Loving what you are and hating yourself at the same time. This darkness we humans can relate to but could never truly understand from a werewolves perspective.

I give you:

Blood and Chocolate

by Annette Curtis Klause

Vivian Gandillon, the princess of her pack. She seeks normalcy and peace from the chaos the pack is in after her father, their leader, has died. But even a teenage werewolf's life can't be that simple nor that easy to fix.

One thing begins to give her that peace, though. A boy named Aiden. Enchanted by magic and completely overtaken by Vivian, he can't resist. And neither can Vivian! Knowing full well her place is needed in the pack and that Aiden is more welcome on her pack's food chain than in their family, Vivian rebels.

Not only does her longing for freedom and independence push her, but so does one of the nominees for the new leader of the pack.

Name: Gabriel

Motive: No one knows

He seems to want to prove himself to those against him and, especially, to Vivian.

So what does the future hold for the pack? Especially now that there are even more complications than merely a testosterone contest for the lead position. Now there has been a murder that could reveal the member's secret as werewolves to there home town!

Does Vivian reveal her true self to Aiden or be banished from the pack? Does Gabriel become leader or is he blamed for the mysterious brutal murder? Does Vivian choose to stay with Aiden and hide the beast within her or does she accept her place in the pack and become who she was born to be? Find out!

And don't forget to have the piece of chocolate handy...

Bohemian Manifesto

2008-08-13T10:06:00.005-06:00

"Don't call me before noon, man."

-Cody

Just as much stereotyped as Goths, Cowboys, and people who wear glasses, Bohemians have been expected to be dirty, hoboish and especially weird. Much to some surprise and entertainment, there are many types and all are very distinct in their actions, dress, literature, and even hygiene. Again another glorious book written by the one and only Loren Stover:

Bohemian Manifesto

A Field Guide To Living On The Edge

Again, another book I couldn't put down! From wine-drunk senses, gypsy skirts, snapping applause and the poetic soul, bohemians have been the navigator's of my imagination. I have always adored the mystery and smoke rings that seem to follow there very existence.

In this book you will find that not all bohemians are the same nor are they even alike. But to be honest, a TRUE bohemian is Always a mix, a "mutt" if you will. The author breaks them down into five specific general types: Nouveau, Gypsy, Beat, Zen and Dandy.

Nouveau is the rich bohemian. These dress and decorate with no conscience and no apology with their elaborate lamps and rugs, top hats and the top-of-the-line mulch. Their ideals are what make them bohemian. Earth-help funds, inspiration to and of spirits, FREEDOM.

Gypsy Bohemians have no money and take the time to enjoy what nature and the Earth gives them. Broke down on the side of the road because the car has a tendency to over-heat? Relax and enjoy the sun rays, maybe even get a tan while you walk to the near-by orchard and grab some lunch. With eccentric styles and not the best hygiene, these bohemians are the most laid back if not the laziest.

Now for the Beats. Created in the late 1950's with rebellion and poetry embedded in their blood, they wear all black, smoke cigarettes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and drink wine. Utopia-seekers with uncensored, unpublished manuscripts who have no problem taking off their clothes. What can I say but that they are free spirits with a reckless track history.

Yoga. Incense. Meditation. Completely engulfed in Indian, Japanese and Tibetan cultures and religions. Definitely the most "spiritual" of all bohemians, they rely on and crave "The Higher Plain" of life. Completely organic based and health nuts, they are also the most healthy of the bohemians. Whether it is metaphysical, environmental or both, you can bet that these bohemians are behind anything to better life for the Earth and for all.

Last but not least, the Dandy. Most polished of the bohemians, they resemble the Nouveaus but without any cash. Dressing as though they live in the Victorian era, thy thrive on thriftiness and antiques. Closets with fur coats from the Dumpster and make-up in all sample sizes, the Dandy has no interest in the "natural" look. Fond of the drink, the Dandy would mostly possess more unpopular drinks, they wouldn't dream of denying a beer if you offered.

With a fun quiz in the back and really cute art, The Bohemian Manifesto: A Field Guide To Living On The Edge is definitely a must-read for those who are wild and free at heart with a touch of poetic soul and a Utopian ideals! Enjoy.

"Create your own universe."
-Atlas

Beauty, Smiles, Style!

2008-08-11T18:11:00.005-06:00

"I don't mind living in a man's world as long as I can be a woman in it."

-Marilyn Monroe

Forever goddesses and forever young. These ladies have been here ever since we can remember. And we never want to forget them. Sex-appeal, confidence and the curves and hi-heels to match. Bombshells have enchanted the dreams and lives of people all around the world. By what about THEIR world?

Knowing a bombshell's latest movie or greatest quote only gives you a mere scent of their passion and lifestyle. Behold:

The Bombshell's

Manual

of Style

By Laren Stover

I have discovered this fascinating and completely entertaining book from the help of my lovely co-worker, Diane. I literally couldn't put it down. Laren Stover has out done herself with the insight, fun trivia and inner passion of the bombshell. These ladies are captivating! From their library (Yes, they read.) to shoes, perfume to how they chose their names.

Glamour, their preference. Pink silk, black satin and hi-heels worn especially in the nude. They never have food in their own refrigerator nor their own money because they are always taken care of, always protected, always adored.

The home of the bombshell is never neglected, however. Fur carpets in pink. Furniture of tiger, leopard and zebra print also sometimes mixed in with pink. Always ready for company with champagne on the side. These girls are never unprepared unless they are prepared for it! As for their lounging wardrobe, their birthday suits are the only thing they are the most comfortable in with the exception of lingerie or sheet, so don't be too surprised if that is your welcoming committee at the door.

Perfumes are just as important, if not more so, as their entire wardrobe. From Chanel to Femme, these ladies have brought to our attention that, as the french poet Paul Valery said, "There is no future for a woman who does not use perfume properly."

There is no stopping the eternal beauties and there influences on the way society rates Sexiness. I hope that you enjoy this book as much as Diane and I have. A page-turner from beginning to end, you will not be unsatisfied!

"Why don't you come over and see me sometime?"

-Mae West

The Host by Stephenie Meyer

2008-05-23T15:48:00.003-06:00

Before I begin, I would like to apologize to all the avid science fiction readers; especially Claire, Greth, & Jessica (my co-workers). I hate science fiction, no I loathe science fiction with my entire being. (Sorry ladies :) I just find that with all the wonderful things that do exist, why must there be books that delve into other planets, ray-guns, made up creatures, etc. Now I can hear some of you yelling, what about imagination? Have you ever heard of it? Yes, I love imagination and I would like to think that my imagination is very well developed; but for some unknown reason I just cannot bring myself to read, let alone enjoy, a science fiction novel.....until this point.
When I learned that Stephenie Meyer was going to be writing an adult novel, I was thrilled. (I must admit I was a little disappointed that it would be coming out before she finished her Twilight series, but I won't get into that, it is a whole other blog :) When I learned her first foray into the adult section of the bookstore was to be in science fiction, I think I actually cringed. Being a Meyer fanatic, I began to look into this new book with biased eyes. But after much deliberation and several times changing my mind, I thought what the heck, it can't be all that bad, can it? As the day of its release got closer, I got more and more excited, almost like a child with the upcoming holiday season. When it finally got into my anxious little hands, I as psyched! I know not to judge a book by it's cover, but this cover was amazing and it was a book by Stephenie Meyer.
I went straight home from work, and I settled in with the goal to read this book by the end of the evening. This is where some of my excitement died down. Like her other books, she grabs you right away, but unlike the Twilight series, I could put this one down pretty easy. What is going on, I thought, where is the hook that won't let you go? (In my eyes, this book was up against some pretty stiff competition, please keep that in mind :) After some re-reading, and taking some breaks to surf the TV, I decided that it was now or never. After the first 100 pages, I was hooked!! Only stopping to get something to drink, and to move so my legs didn't fall asleep, at 3:30am I had finished the newest book by Stephenie Meyer. After finishing the last paragraph, I was giddy! A huge smile lit up my face, and I was wide awake; so in love with this book I re-read the last 2 chapters, just to savor that wonderful feeling of finishing a book that you love, and to remember the characters that have captured a part of your heart.
Like I said earlier, I hate science fiction; but I think what I loved so much about this particular book was that she was able to make the non-human characters so humane. For the first time, I was excited to read and learn about an alien. In this book, time is not identified, so it could be present day or years in the future; but our human bodies have been taken over by "souls". Using our bodies as a host, hence the title, they have taken over Earth, along with numerous other planets. Yet, there are a group of humans who do not want to lose themselves to the "souls", and have set up rebellion camps all over. Meet Melanie, a rebel human, who has got caught and has a "soul", named Wanderer, put into her body. But Melanie does not die out, and Wanderer is caught sharing a body with this strong, independent person who knows where a camp of rebel humans are. Not only does Wanderer start to like Melanie, she is bombarded by the feelings Melanie has for another human named Jared. Meyer deftly weaves a very PG romance plot, into all the action, but unlike her previous novels this love story involves 3 souls and 2 bodies.
The Host is considered an adult novel but I truly believe that any person, young or old, will enjoy this wonderfully written tale of love, survival, but most of all finding out who you are in any type of skin.

Falling in love all over again...with books, of course!

2008-02-14T11:46:00.010-07:00

Today, Valentine's Day, is the international holiday of Love (or, if you're cynical, a marketing ploy aimed to hit us where it hurts - our pocketbooks. 'If you really loved me, you'd...'. But I prefer to think of it as the holiday of Love.) And on this festival day, it is only appropriate to engage with the ones you love, to reassure them of your love, and to show your commitment and devotion in some way (it doesn't have to cost money!) Well, I plan to do all of that for my husband. But it occurs to me that I have another love affair, even longer standing than my marriage. I speak, of course, of my devotion to books. In the romantic air of the day, what could be more appropriate than mentioning a few of my favorite romances.

For young adults, and young at hearts, Beauty by Robin McKinley is a wonderful re-telling of a classic fairytale. The growing friendship, and blossoming romance, between Beauty and her Beast re-affirms all of our longings for true love. Crown and Court Duel by Sherwood Smith introduces another love story, between unlikely characters. A noblewoman turned rebel is balked at every turning by a lackey of the corrupt king. So why does she find him so fascinating? Read and find out! For something a little closer to home, try The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare. When free-spirited Kit travels to her Puritan relatives in the colonies, she finds herself torn between two different men offering two very different lives. An accusation of witchcraft, and a threat to a dear friend, force Kit to make her choice once and for all.

Fantasy lovers should try Mercedes Lackey's The Fairy Godmother, first in her series about the 500 Kingdoms. Elaina was born to be a Cinderella, but her Prince Charming is only a young boy when she leaves her cruel stepmother. So instead the local Fairy Godmother takes her in, training her to be the new Fairy Godmother. When she meets the stereotypical second brother, who tries to trample her, she turns him into a donkey. How on earth can he ever be redeemed?

If Victorian England, in all its finery, appeals to your imagination, try the romances of Stephanie Laurens, or Amanda Quick. In Devil's Bride Stephanie Laurens introduces the Cynster family, each of whom will have their own intense and thrilling love-story. Amanda Quick's quirky novels, including Second Sight, The Paid Companion, Ravished and many others will delight anyone looking for characters who aren't perfectly beautiful, perfectly handsome, disgustingly wealthy, or convieniently royalty in hiding. Her love stories are funny, suspensful, and delightfully possible!

Amanda Quick also writes as Jayne Ann Krentz when her heroes and heroines are facing the modern rat race instead of Victorian strait-laced life. Grand Passion follows a hard-edged business man, used to being on his own, as he is drawn into the family and love of a warm and caring woman. Falling Awake looks at the possibilities of psychic dreamers, who fall in love long before they meet in person.

For those who thrill to the darker things in life, Dark Prince by Christine Feehan introduces the Carpathians, a noble immortal race who can become the monstrous vampires of legend if they don't find their lifemates in time. Christina Dodd writes of a family of shapeshifters, cursed by their ancestor's deal with the devil. Touching Darkness begins the quest of four siblings to find a way to undo the demonic pact.

Finally, my own personal comfort books. The inspirational romances of Grace Livingston Hill are simple, wholesome, and sweet. Written in the early 1900's, they remind the reader of happier times and simpler joys. The Best Man, Not Under the Law, Tomorrow About this Time, and more than hundred others can enchant your own inner world.

Making Money Pratchett Style

2007-10-16T09:53:00.000-06:00

Well, I can hardly wait - I'm biting my fingernails, waiting on tenterhooks, with bated breath - all those great expressions. For what am I waiting so anxiously? For the 36th Discworld book by Terry Pratchett, even now being processed at the local library. If my name isn't first on the hold list, I don't know what I'll do!

For those of you who are uninitiated into the wonders of Discworld, I am taking this opportunity to attempt a conversion/introduction. The more people who read Terry Pratchett, the better this world will be.

The Discworld is, appropriately, a flat, round disc-shaped planet, resting on the back of four elephants which stand on the shell of a giant turtle as it swims through space. Among the many mysteries of Discworld science is how exactly the world can turn on the elephants' shoulders without causing the mother of all friction burns. The most likely answer? Magic. Of course a world as illogical as this can't exist without a substantial magical field in place. The answer to any question of technology or history is magic. Much to the dismay of Rincewind, the Disc's most incompetent wizzard (note spelling), there is no such thing as special light sensitive paper for taking pictures of things. When you point a little black box at something and push the button, a tiny imp inside the box paints the scene for you. And when lightning strikes, it is because the gods are having a particularly bad day, not due to the build up of some unknown force in the air.

Naturally, for a world so steeped in magic, the presence of magic workers is essential. Discworld's Wizards and Witches make life easier for the average citizen, mostly by doing nothing in the case of the wizards (they don't use magic but they do it in a dynamic way, not like people who don't use magic because they can't, but because they can, they don't. It makes sense to them, and lets them eat huge meals and lounge around on tenure doing nothing and feeling very accomplished.) Of course, no mention of the wizards is complete without introducing their librarian, who loves bananas and says 'Oook', due to his unusually ape-like physiology. Just don't call him a monkey.
The witches, on the other hand, do quite a lot for everyone, but they also avoid using magic whenever possible. In their case, they figure why waste magic when good old headology (psychology) works so well? No need to curse someone when you can mutter under your breath and have them jinx themselves out of fear. Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg hold local farmers in thrall - Granny by her cussedness, and Nanny by her atrociously bad jokes.

All of the Discworld is, of course, carefully watched by Death, a seven foot tall skeleton who SPEAKS IN CAPITAL LETTERS and tries very hard to understand the humans in his care. A surprisingly personable fellow who even has a granddaughter (she fills in for him on his occasional disappearances) and a pet, of sorts. Death of Rats SQUEAKS IN CAPITALS, but at least he's some company.

The Discworld is a wonderfully comfortable, familiar place, with the kinds of people you could pull off of any street here. So, go out to your local library, or bookstore (yes, we do carry them!) and start reading! First, read The Color of Magic and The Light Fantastic. Then, go wild! And when you've worked your way through the wonders of Terry Pratchett's fabulous imagination, you can get in line behind me to read Making Money. I promise you, it will be well worth the effort!

Jessica Recommends The Phoenix Guards

2007-09-30T11:06:00.000-06:00

It’s time for another edition of

Jessica Recommends a Book!

You probably won't like Steven Brust's The Phoenix Guards. I say that with some confidence, not because I dislike it myself, but because, statistically speaking, 9 of 11 people I’ve lent it to have returned it unfinished. Nevertheless, it is one of my favorites. Consider the following note about the geography around the Imperial Palace:

“At any rate, the aforementioned Vallista reign saw, in addition to the construction of the Imperial Palace, the creation for the first time of forts and fortresses (the distinction, certain comments by the Lord of Snails notwithstanding, having nothing whatsoever to do with the presence of breastworks, nor the size of buttresses) along what was then the Eastern border. The construction of the Great Houses around the Imperial Palace did not begin until the Second Cycle, with the reign of Kieron the Younger, of the House of the Dragon. He ordered the building of the Great House of the Phoenix, opposite the Palace, as a tribute to Empress Zerika II, or possibly as a bribe to persuade her to relinquish the throne – history is unclear on this.”The Phoenix Guards, page 30.

If your eyes glazed over, believe me, you’re not alone. But if this lecture about the architectural history of a fictional palace complex made you smirk, well....

At its core, this is a deadpan parody of The Three Musketeers. Not just the absurdities of manners and customs exhibited in the book, but also the persistent quality of narrative voice in nineteenth century romances, where the narrator’s character is just as apparent as those he pontificates about. And the narrator does pontificate. He expounds endlessly and inventively about the history of places and people and regional cuisine our heroes encounter in their adventures, often spending more time discussing the history of the inn than the ambush our heroes actually thwart at the inn.

That is not to say the characters are in any way lacking. Our heroes are delightful re-imaginings of the classic four Musketeers, recognizable in archetype but with their own flavor. For example, one of the four appears as a woman. But rather than take the easy route, with the woman in the place of the foppish schemer Aramis, Tazendra takes the role of the brash warrior Porthos, always a step behind in the planning but taking the lead in battle. The other three, Khaavren, Aerich, and Pel, each have their own charms.

Oh, and did I mention the swashbuckling? Because they have rather a lot of that. There are epic duels, invading armies, love, rivalry, revenge… What more could you ask for?

2007-09-18T10:15:00.000-06:00

I attended the Fort Collins Sustainable Living Fair with my husband this past Saturday. All I can say is (to quote a customer who also attended) 'I'm ready to go live in a yurt and raise goats!'

The fair gave us the much-needed reassurance that we are not alone in our concern for the environment, and our search for alternative ways of living. And did they ever have choices for those other ways! We passed booths dealing with every conceivable aspect of the green/sustainable lifestyle - many of them issues that we had never thought of! From the solar oven (knew about that) to the necessity for all eight sugars in a balanced diet (??? never knew that) and everything in between. The best part was the relative lack of structure. We moved from a display on alternative building materials to a booth with free meat samples (we'd just had brunch, more's the pity, because that steak smelled good!) There was no feeling of 'now we're in the energy section, now we're in the clothing section, etc' but of a wonderful holistic jumble! Just like the reality of a sustainable lifestyle, the fair offerings looked at the integrated whole.

Of course, being the bibliophile that I am, my attention was grabbed by any booth with books on display. While I was a good girl and resisted the temptation (merely noted the titles for later purchasing) my husband, surprisingly enough, found one book that he had to have, Superbia! 31 Ways to Create Sustainable Neighborhoods by Dan Chiras ($19.95, New Society Publishers). I definitely got some leverage out of his succumbing to temptation while I stood firm! So I used my high ground to justify my ordering of the three books that I wanted - I know, three to one hardly seems reasonable, but I've never denied that I'm an addict! So, in a few days I should have Everything I Want to Do is Illegal by Joel Salatin ($23.95, Polyface) A Handmade Life: In Search of Simplicity by William Coperthwaite ($25, Chelsea Green Publishing Company) and Home Work: Handbuilt Shelter by Lloyd Kahn ($26.95, Shelter Publications). I can't wait!

While our time at the fair was unfortunately limited - only two and a half hours to see all that we could - we had enough time to realize that our Northern Colorado Community has a strong group dedicated to finding ways to live in harmony with nature. Even driving past the parasitical mall at Centerra afterwards couldn't entirely erase our sense of hope. Of course, now we have to decide how we will apply ourselves to meeting these challenges. My husband votes for the Green Party in Ireland and watches for any new research about organic farming, genetically modified foods, and oil alternatives. I, of course, tend to be a little more (over)enthusiastic. So, I'm ready to go handbuild a completely green shelter with all alternative energy, a complete water recycling system and a biofuel converter, grow organic foods for our own consumption, make all of our clothing, outlaw TV, and banish consumerism. Oh, and raise goats, of course.

2007-08-27T15:35:00.000-06:00

Every few weeks, I get an urge to be crafty - handcrafts, that is. Especially when I look at my budget, and then consider my closet. Clothing is just not affordable now! I do most of my shopping at GoodWill, but the options are slightly limited there. Unless...I've taken to looking at every piece of clothing as a potential blank canvas, to be remade in any way I can dream up. Last summer, I purchased Megan Nicolay's book Generation T: 108 ways to transform a T-shirt (9780761137856, $14.95) and started down the primrose path to T-shirt frenzy! My culminating triumph (so far) was my handsewn wedding dress, which took more time than I care to admit, and was worth every second of it when my husband realized that I had made it myself. Whenever I clean out my closet now, I make three piles instead of two: keep, give away, use for cloth. The only problem is that the potential projects pile up so quickly!

It struck me recently that what was a neccessity for our ancestors has become a hobby for us. I sew, knit, and crochet for my own pleasure, not because I will go naked otherwise. I find ways to re-use objects because I have the time and an urge to experiment, not because I can't afford to purchase something new. Hard on the heels of that thought came another: we have made it more expensive to create than to purchase. How sad is that? If I lived in poverty, I would not save any money by making my own clothes. Yarn, cloth, tools, and time make any project more expensive than simply buying an equivalent item from a department store. While our culture professes to celebrate individuality, we are pressed into purchasing monotony.

My new goal: to wear only socks that I knit myself (as soon as I learn how to knit socks). To make the majority of my own clothes, not just the occasional funky top. To live as though I couldn't run down to the store to purchase new things. To rediscover the pride of creating in all aspects of life. To sew a straight seam.

2007-08-01T12:45:00.000-06:00

I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all of our customers who have celebrated with me this week. The announcement of my marriage to Fintan Dinneen appeared in last Saturday's Reporter Herald, and the response of our regulars has been very heartwarming. This experience has also brought home to me what a small town Loveland has remained, despite its ever-increasing population. My family has lived in this area for several generations, and people have come into the store to ask after my connections - usually because they went to high school with my great-aunt, or were taught by my grandfather. Photographs of me as an eight year old, and reminiscence of holding me as an infant make me feel as though I am living in an old-fashioned, storybook community.
This strength of human connection is one of Loveland's most valuable assets. Nowhere do I feel it as strongly as when I am at work, hearing about the events large and small in our customers' lives. Downtown Loveland has fought back against the slump that threatened it in recent years. Even with the eastward expansion drawing commerce away from the center of town, 4th Street has managed to revitalize itself. I am so encouraged by the number of new customers that we get each day, people who want to shop locally instead of giving business to a faceless big-box store. As these new converts find us, we are also establishing close ties with the other businesses nearby. People come to us on the recommendation of Monika from Woolen Treasures, or the folks at MommaStyle. In turn, we make it a point to know where we can send people when they ask for suggestions.
I am fortunate to be a fourth generation Colorado native, three generations in Loveland itself. I inherited my great-grandmother's diaries, which she kept from age 12 to age 90. Reading about her Loveland, and then coming to work and experiencing my Loveland, I am thrilled to still feel the sense of unity and fellowship that she did. Granted, we're a lot larger now, and we no longer depend just on our own community to meet our needs. However, we have not become a virtual ghost town, or 'dormitory' suburb. I believe that 4th Street, the Library, the Museum, and yes, Anthology Book Company have all done a tremendous amount to keep our town vital and friendly. When I look online and see better prices than I can find in the stores, or when I know that I can drop by Hobby Lobby for cheaper yarn, the strength and commitment of our downtown community reminds me that its value is greater than any money I could save elsewhere.
So, thank you all again for your best wishes. Also, a particular thank you to the mystery benefactor who paid for my husband and my dinner at Cipoletti's the other day. Your generosity is yet another example of Loveland's fine heart, and we will pass it on someday.

Book Review by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

2007-07-31T11:15:00.000-06:00

Dust off those classics ~ they deserve another chance
By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

In this fast paced world of cell phones, ipods and virus videos it is easy to forget about classics. You know, the classics; those books collecting dust on your bookshelf, behind the best-sellers you bought because Oprah liked it or because you liked the attractively decorated cover.

I want to share two of my favorite books, they both happen to be classics. These books and other so-called classics contain the writing that is used as the stick with which to measure great writing, and in this world increasingly full of one-liners and text messaging it's all too easy to forget what good writing looks like.

Both books are packed with innuendoes, intrigue and sexual tension, and both authors have first-person experience with the attitudes and time periods of which they write. There are other classics that some people would rate higher on a literary scale of greatness, but no one will argue their position among the great literary books of all-time.

The Age of Innocence, Edith Wharton

This is my all-time favorite book. The story incorporates social commentary with brilliantly written social and sexual tension. It follows the life of a 19th Century New York gentleman, Newland Archer, and his intense feelings for Countess Olenska, who has fallen from societal graces by leaving her husband. The story grips the reader and pulls her into the world of New York high society and the strict conventions that come with it.

Wharton writes in great detail, never leaving a teacup unmentioned and this intense attention to scene setting draws an exceedingly accurate and vivid picture of the society’s obsession with opulence and the outward appearance of perfection. The following paragraph describes the Beaufort house:

Then the house had been boldly planned with a ball-room, so that, instead of squeezing through a narrow passage to get to it (as at the Chiverses') one marched solemnly down a vista of enfiladed drawing-rooms (the sea-green, the crimson and the bouton d'or), seeing from afar the many-candled lustres reflected in the polished parquetry, and beyond that the depths of a conservatory where camellias and tree-ferns arched their costly foliage over seats of black and gold bamboo. ~The Age of Innocence, Chapter III.

Archer’s problem is not only that he is in love with a woman who has left her husband, but that he is engaged to May Welland, a proper young woman whom he admires, but is not in love with. In the following paragraph Archer contemplates a photograph of his fiancé:

As he dropped into his armchair near the fire his eyes rested on a large photograph of May Welland, which the young girl had given him in the first days of their romance, and which had now displaced all the other portraits on the table. With a new sense of awe he looked at the frank forehead, serious eyes and gay innocent mouth of the young creature whose soul's custodian he was to be. That terrifying product of the social system he belonged to and believed in, the young girl who knew nothing and expected everything, looked back at him like a stranger through May Welland's familiar features; and once more it was borne in on him that marriage was not the safe anchorage he had been taught to think, but a voyage on uncharted seas. ~ The Age of Innocence, Chapter VI.

Countess Olenska is everything May is not; worldly, daring and seemingly indifferent. But is she really so uncaring? Is her air of confidence a ruse? Archer aches to find the true Countess Olsenska, but how can he when he is soon to be wed to Miss May Wellen?

The Age of Innocence explores the relationship between people and the societal constrains under which they must live. It is a character study as well as a study of 19th Century society in upper class New York.

Countess Olenska is character Wharton very well may have fashioned after herself. Edith Wharton was born in 1862 to a wealthy New York family (whose last name of Jones has been associated with the phrase “keeping up with the Joneses”). She was a divorcé who spent much of her time abroad in France and was said to have had a three year affair with journalist Morton Fullerton. She was also very close with author Henry James.

Wharton was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature (1921) for The Age of Innocence.

A Room with a View, E. M. Forster

A Room with a View is another story written by an author who enjoys writing fiction that comments on societal conventions and the absurdity of many of these conventions. This book is the story of a young English woman named Lucy Honeychurch who takes a holiday in Florence, Italy that changes her life forever. The first part of the book is based in Italy where the reader meets some odd and highly comical characters that reappear throughout the book.

Based in the 19th Century, the book is full of societal mores of the day. Including the necessity of a chaperone to accompanying a young woman traveling abroad; an unaccompanied young woman would be scandalous. Miss Honeychurch’s chaperone is her spinster cousin, Miss Charlotte Bartlett. The two cousins stay at a pension with many amusing guests, including a young man named George Emerson, who is traveling with his father. George is not only from a different social class than Miss Honeychurch, but he is also a philosophical fellow who is profoundly affected by the world around him, in other words, despite his handsome face, he is quite odd.

While loitering in a Florentine plaza, Miss Honeychurch witnesses a brutal murder and faints into George’s arms and thus begins the rocky relationship between the two. However, back in England, Cecil Vyse, a rather dull, yet highly suitable young man with all the right bloodlines is waiting for Miss Honeychurch.

The second half of the book is set in Surrey, England where Miss Honeychurch reintegrates herself into her proper upper class English family. Just as things are getting back to normal, George and his father move into a house down the road and Miss Honeychurch is torn between society’s wishes for her to marry the rich boring Cecil or her own wishes to marry the man whom she loves.

The highlight of this book is the entertaining character development. Forster has crafted a humorous story chockablock with colorful characters too rich to work and so very bored with their own pampered lives that they spend a great quantity of time meddling in other peoples.

E.M. Forster knew first hand the cost of not conforming to social conventions. Born into a middle-class London family in 1870, he became good friends with controversial writers D.H. Lawrence and Virginia Woolf. He was also a homosexual. He wrote one book with a homosexual theme (Maurice) which he circulated privately; it was only published after his death in 1970.

2007-05-18T11:43:00.000-06:00

Of course we're all super excited about the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! The end of the series (supposedly), the release party (you can still come, and get 10% off your copy, if you pre-pay with us) and the thousands of kids eager to read all heighten our anticipation! But we shouldn't let our Harry-craze make us overlook all of the other marvelous books available for young readers. I scanned the shelves in our kid's section, and pulled a few of my longtime favorites, perfect for summer reading.

Miss Hickory, a Newberry Medal winner written in 1946 by Carolyn Sherwin Bailey, is a sweet and simple story. The title character, a doll made of an apple twig and a hickory nut, must fend for herself through the winter after her young owner leaves her in the country. If any of the children you know are fascinated by miniatures and dolls, this book will strike a chord and inspire their imagination.

Along similar lines, Mary Norton's beloved series about the Borrowers has enchanted readers since the 1950s. Personal favorites of my own mother, they were staples of my childhood as well. The ingenious uses to which the Borrowers (no taller than a pencil) put our everyday items such as pins, spools, game pieces and more, are inspiring to anyone who still plays make-believe. The series, a total of four volumes, are perfect reading for lazy summer days. Books include: The Borrowers, The Borrowers Afield, The Borrowers Afloat, and The Borrowers Aloft.

For slightly older audiences, Robin McKinley's The Hero and the Crown, a Newberry Medalist, and its sequel The Blue Sword will thrill and excite. Set in the land of Damar, both stories feature strong young women who deal with the challenges of not fitting in, until they find their unique place in the world.

Goody Hall, by Natalie Babbitt, is one of the strangest and most delightful books that I've read. With a famous outlaw, a missing fortune in jewels, an oddly heavy ottoman, and an aptly named (though he doesn't think so at first)actor/tutor, the book captures and keeps you through twist after twist. One of the few books that I cannot recall the ending of when I re-read it, it delights me anew each time!

Finally, I suggest two books by the marvelous Ellen Raskin. Her Newberry Medal winner The Westing Game is a marvelous introduction to the mystery genre, with full-fleshed lively characters, and plenty of mistaken/assumed identities. It is one mystery that you can gladly read again and again - knowing 'whodunit' won't ruin the book for you! Her book Figgs & Phantoms, a Newberry Honor book, is absurd realism at it's very best. The heroine is the only normal person in her circus-like family aside from her adored uncle. When he passes away, she begins a journey of self-discovery and learns that she may not be all that normal after all - fortunately!

Whatever your reading tastes (even if you don't think you like to read at all) we have something in the store to capture your imagination this summer. And even if you're just counting the days until Harry comes back, we have stories to make the time fly by!

A morning at the trade counter

2007-05-10T12:32:00.000-06:00

Here is a sampling of some of the interesting used books we received at our trade counter today:

Grow Native: Landscaping with Native and Apt Plants of the Rocky Mountains $8.50
Teach Yourself Visually: Yoga $12.00
The Pilgrimage by Paulo Coelho $6.50
Vegetable Gardening for Dummies $8.50
The 100 Most Influential Books Ever Written $7.00 hardcover
Easel Does It: Calligraphy $8.50
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte $3.50
Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama $7.50
Household Stories by the Brothers Grimm $3.00

The One Book That Everyone Should Read

2007-05-03T16:02:00.000-06:00

Ok, so there isn't just one book that we all should read, but this one is pretty high up on the list! Nickle and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America by Barbara Ehrenreich (ISBN 0805063897, $13.00) is scary, sobering, and hopefully motivating. Ehrenreich, an acclaimed journalist, went 'undercover' for three months, in three different states, to try to live on a low-paying job. Note that she was not trying to live on minimum wage ($5.65 per hour during her 1999 experiment, $7.15 per hour currently) but on low wage jobs that paid slightly more than the federally mandated amount. So did it work? Nope. She worked her fingers to the bones, having discovered that she could not possibly live on just one job; she never could get a decent apartment since she couldn't save up enough for a deposit; she often had long commutes because the only semi-affordable housing was located far away from her workplace; and she was told, without words, that her inability to get by was her own fault.
Let's consider the facts: One full-time minimum wage job in 1999 would gross $11,752 per year. Take out taxes - let's say 15% - and you have $9,989.20. Per month, you would need to live on $832.43. The positions that Ehrenreich took generally paid about $7.00 per hour, upping her monthly after tax wage to $1031.33. With that, she had to pay her rent, usually in excess of $600 per month, her gas (remember those long commutes?) her food, and any potential medical costs (fortunately for her she didn't have any injuries or illnesses during that time). I have a hard time paying for those things myself on my significantly higher salary!
The hardest thing to face, though, wasn't the stories of hardship (families of six living in one motel room; a Wal-Mart employee who couldn't afford to buy a Wal-Mart shirt on clearance) but the fact that so many of her co-workers believed that they were alone in their inability to make ends meet. They bought the myth that their low wage was a living wage, and that it was their own fault for being unable to live on it. Sadder still were the tactics of the employers, designed to keep the masses down: withholding the first week's paycheck as blackmail against leaving immediately, punishing workers for minor infractions by changing shifts without notice, and worst of all, appealing to the sympathy of the workers by claiming to be hard pressed themselves. Corporations making millions, even billions, of dollars annually claim that they are unable to pay their workers higher wages for fear of bankruptcy. How much do they pay them now? Certainly less that 5% of their overall profits!
I grew up with the knowledge of poverty always on the periphery. I gave to the collection plate at church, walked in the CROP Walk, and knew in my head that there were people who couldn't afford to buy dinner, much less a home. But the underlying assumption was that those people didn't have jobs. Not necessarily that they were lazy, but that they were unemployed for one reason or another. Ehrenreich's study uncovers a frighteningly different reality: these people work hard, far harder than I do in fact, at two or more jobs. They cut every corner they can, not splurging on luxuries. They aren't drunks who drink their money, or gamblers who throw it away. They do everything right that they can. And they can't afford to buy dinner, much less a home. Anyone who still believes that welfare moms and high school drop outs can make it if they just work hard needs to read this book.

Next on my reading list? Bait and Switch: The (Futile) Pursuit of the American Dream (ISBN 0805081240, $13), also by Ehrenreich. The question here: are the middle classes doing that much better than the poor? We'll find out!

Medieval help desk

2007-04-18T12:51:00.000-06:00

A very funny take on the "future" of books:

Two books I love

2007-04-13T11:22:00.000-06:00

I've just finished two books, both of which earn a spot on my favorite's list. After thinking back on it, I've realized they are both coming-of-age stories about young girls struggling to make sense of a rapidly changing world. But that's about where their similarities end.

The first is The Probable Future (13.95, ISBN 0345455916) by Alice Hoffman. Hoffman, whose book Practical Magic was made into a film of the same name, is a master of contemporary "magical realism," and has long been one of my favorite authors. This is the story of a girl who, just like all of the women of the Sparrow family, wakes up on her 13th birthday with an unusual "gift." How she comes to terms with this gift, and the unforeseen consequences of sharing it quickly form the story. Along the way we get to know the other powerful women of Stella's family, from the mysterious Rebecca Sparrow who was put to death in the 17th century; to her mother Jenny, who can see other people's dreams. This book is an uplifting look at relationships between mothers and daughters, and the magic that fills our lives.

I don't think I can use the word "uplifting" to talk about this next book. The God of Animals ($25.00, ISBN 1416533249 ) tells a story about the indelible grip of the past and the way it's patterns unfold moment to moment. Written in the voice of an 11-year old girl growing up on a horse ranch in Colorado, this debut novel is deeply moving from page one. The author, Colorado-born Aryn Kyle, has grounded her book in the harsh and sometimes cruel realities of life and nature, where death, madness, and love wrench your heart and take your breath away. I love this book, and that's how I feel after reading it -- breathless, kinda achey, and little bit raw. Alice Winston is an intelligent, courageous girl on the brink of becoming a young woman. She's forced, a bit early, to navigate the rocky terrain of adult relationships and broken dreams. This is a powerful and stunning book about love in all of its' manifestations.

The Tax Man Cometh

2007-04-11T20:42:00.000-06:00

I must admit that this year, tax day is a first for me. Before this, my dad filed for me, kept my data, filled everything out, and all I had to do was sign on the dotted line. This year, though, I'm off of their files, officially independent, a salary earner instead of a wage-slave. I kind of liked it the old way, to be honest. With the day of reckoning fast approaching, I'm looking at a rather pathetic state of finances. The wool has been stripped from my eyes, and I don't like the colors I'm seeing. So thank goodness I work at a bookstore! If I can't find a book to help me out, I'm not looking hard enough. Sure enough, I found several, each one addressing a different aspect of my financial straits.
To get me on the straight and narrow with no illusions about my net worth, I read Steven Smith's Money for Life ($14.95, ISBN 9780793187935, available at my.mvelopes.com). It poses as a novella, introducing the story of "Ryan and Christine", an average American couple with good jobs, nice incomes, and lots of consumer debt. The book uses their story as a vehicle to introduce the concept of envelope budgeting (I think my grandparents did that) and the elimination of a credit dependent life style. It offers great advice on establishing a budget, but wasn't quite what I needed. I don't have any debt, fortunately, but neither do I have the kind of disposable income they talk about. I turned my sights elsewhere.
Enter America's Cheapest Family Gets You Right on the Money ($12.95 ISBN 9780307339454) by Steve and Annette Economides (yes, that really is their last name). Here were tips on how to live on less, avoid debt, and plan for all those expenses I'd never had to think about before (medical bills, insurance, utilities...). Their proud acceptance of the label "America's Cheapest Family" says it all: they aren't gonna spend money if they don't have to! It's a good guide to some of the shortcuts and common pitfalls of the costs of everyday living. Some of their advice seemed a little extreme to me (buying food by the month, using loads of coupons, and shopping at five or six different stores to get the lowest price on each individual item). I definitely don't have that kind of time to devote to just my grocery shopping, but it's a notion to file away for later use. However, I realized as I read that my main problem isn't my expensive tastes, but not knowing where my 'disposable' income goes! Alright, my insurance deductible is absurdly high, and the legal fees for bringing my foreign fiance into the country mean no dinner out for several years, but after those big required expenses, I should have had some income to play with.
I grabbed two more books to find out where it all goes: Affluenza ($18.95 ISBN 9781576751992) by De Graaf, Wann and Naylor, and Not Buying It: My Year Without Shopping ($14.00 ISBN 9780743269360) by Judith Levine. The books really only told me what I already knew deep down: Americans buy a lot of useless, meaningless, stupid stuff. We waste our money, and our lives, chasing the next must-have item, and the marketers know just how to make their item a must-have. I could see that I don't hemorrhage money, I just slowly bleed it away with the little things. Affluenza, based around the TV show of the same name from the late 1990s, discusses the 'disease' of hyper-consumerism, and the potential cures for it. Not Buying It actually lives out the reality of trying to cure that materialism. The author and her partner agree not to buy any non-essential items for one year (they defined books as essential items - my kind of people). After reading both of these books, I was inspired and excited to practice my own non-shopping year, my own pursuit of the simpler life. Until I came to work the next day and found another book I just had to read...oh well, at least I'm a little more aware now.
So did I solve my financial difficulties? Nope. Am I closer to solving them in time for next year's tax day? I really think I am. Just in case, though, I picked up a copy of T. Harv Eker's Secrets of the Millionaire Mind ($19.95 ISBN 9780060763282) to learn how to become rich by thinking rich. Now that's quite a promise!

Jazz and Monsters

2007-04-07T10:09:00.000-06:00

What a great event last night! Thank you to everyone who came out on a blustery April night to hear local author Bhanu Kapil read from her book, Incubation: A Space for Monsters. The evening began with live jazz music performed by the Ron Holleman Trio -- quite a treat to hear such talented musicians from the comfort of our very own bookstore! Bhanu's reading was intense and lyrical, her brilliant voice drew me in to our warm and cozy place only to have my breath taken away by her narrative. She was lovely and gracious as usual, her presence helped to center us all in the moment -- a warm and crowded push of bodies squeezed into the cafe, seeking refuge from the cold, a strong voice rising above our collective hush ...

For those of you who couldn't make it, please enjoy the photos. Both of Bhanu's books(Vertical Interrogation of Strangers, and Incubation: A Space for Monsters) are available now at Anthology.

Anthology Book Co.

New Anthology Site!

The American Booksellers Association Winter Institute: What is on the edge?

Clear Mind

Art

February

Foodie? Not me

A Paradigm Shift

Poetry

What Now? Read of course!

Looking Ahead

New Around the Store

The Holidays at Anthology

Pattern Recognition

Autumn brings change

Lovely Poem

Anthology

Fall Events at Anthology Book Company

Online Resources for Book Lovers

Banned Books Week

New to Anthology Book Company

Present Moment, Wonderful Moment

Book Review: "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery

Thanks! Gracias! Merci!

New Books and Old Books

The Wonderful World of Vocabulary

A poetry book from London July 11, 1968

Board Books

Books on Kindle

Quotation of the Day (from Shelf Awareness)

Judging a City's 'Level of Coolness' by its Bookshops

For the Love of Books

The Minds of Children BECAUSE of Books

Story Telling through Art

Shirley Jackson: Mistress of Horror and Domesticity

Who Reads This Stuff?

First person smart-ass

Short Stories for Summer Days

Recommended Reading: Young Adult

Re-reading a Childhood Favorite: Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell

Southern Gothic at its BEST

Summer Reading

French Milk and the works!

How many booksellers does it take to put in a light bulb?

Blood and Chocolate

Bohemian Manifesto

Beauty, Smiles, Style!

The Host by Stephenie Meyer

Falling in love all over again...with books, of course!

Making Money Pratchett Style

Jessica Recommends The Phoenix Guards

Book Review by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

A morning at the trade counter

The One Book That Everyone Should Read

Medieval help desk

Two books I love

The Tax Man Cometh

Jazz and Monsters