Five Questions: Patrick Mader (Audio)

Recently, I had a chance to speak with Northfield author Patrick Mader about his latest book, Oma Finds a Miracle. Mr. Mader and I chatted following the release party for his book. You can listen to this exclusive interview by clicking below or by subscribing to the River City Books podcast via iTunes (see sidebar [...]

Not too Late: Join the Club

A quick reminder to those of you who might be a little behind today given the long and beautiful weekend (can’t trust those weather people as far as I can wing ‘em): The fledgling River City Books poetry book club will meet tonight — at 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 29 in River City Books’ downstairs [...]

Article on Summer Reading Ideas

FYI: There was an useful piece in the Strib’s book section yesterday that you might want to check out if you’re looking for reading ideas.

Sights and Sounds: A ‘Miracle’ Released

I was fortunate to be among those who gathered in River City Books’ downstairs meeting area earlier today for the official release party for Oma Finds a Miracle, the second book by author Patrick “Packy” Mader and illustrator Andrew Holmquist.
Mader, a Northfield resident and Holmquist, who grew up in Northfield, delivered a touching, informative and [...]

Calling Ya On Down

I am using my special call — yes, ravens have calls; we just don’t use them as often as those noisy birds who have nothing better to do than beak off — to the good folks at Northfield.org for mentioning the cool event at River City Books tomorrow morning. If you haven’t yet made plans [...]

If He Tempts You … The Place to Turn

If you watch the tube in late evening hours tonight there’s an excellent chance you’re going to spot Al Gore. The former vice president turned global warming educator will be on the “Daily Show,” the “Charlie Rose Show” and “Late Night with David Letterman.”
That’s the schedule of a candidate, but, no, he’s not running (as [...]

Three Words: Free Travel Guide

When I think of summer, I think of flying. No, not only on the strength of my feathered wings, but also with the aid of the big steal bird zooming high in the sky. It’s the time of the year to go new places and see new things.
At the old neighborhood bookstore, they’ve got a [...]

No ‘Trouble’ With This Selection

If you’re going to start a poetry book club that appeals to the masses I cannot think of a better poet to hit leadoff than Billy Collins. Witty, insightful, accessible and true, Collins is perhaps the most popular poet scribbling today and certainly he’s the funniest mainstream poet I’ve read.
The fledgling River City Books poetry [...]

The ‘Stars’ Will Be Out That Night

I have just been handed important news from Katie Goetz, moderator of the precocious River City Books young adult book club, about the club’s next meeting: The group will gather at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 11, in the store’s downstairs meeting area to discuss Enchantress from the Stars by Sylvia Engdahl.
The club is free [...]

Come Witness ‘A Miracle’

As reported in the Northfield News yesterday (no link available to the story but you can click here instead) at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 26 Patrick “Packy” Mader and Andrew Holmquist will officially release their book Oma Finds a Miracle at my favorite bookstore.
Opa and Oma Together, a popular seller at River City Books [...]