Preparing for Hustvedt’s Latest

Ready … set … go! It’s time to race down to the old neighborhood bookstore because local favorite and former Northfield resident Siri Hustvedt (St. Olaf College, class of 1977) has a new book out. Well, actually, it comes out tomorrow, April 1 — no fooling.
The Sorrows of an American is Hustvedt’s first novel since [...]

Children’s Book Picks

I always like to give kids books. But which books? It’s tough. In a year, two years, their reading ability changes so much. Then it’s difficult to know which are the best books period.
That’s why I found a new award so interesting. The little people’s choice awards, if you will. The Children’s Book Council has [...]

Jon Hassler Passes Away

I saw a nice piece on Jon Hassler at MinnPost.com.

The Prime Position

It’s funny about being a book lover. At least I have found this to be true. Maybe I am the only one, but I suspect I am not.
There are so many books out there — a staggering number, really — and yet from time to time I struggle to pick one up. I walk into [...]

Clackety Clack — Come Back!

So maybe you’re going on break. A little get-away. And the kids … well … the wee one could use something to occupy his or her attention for a spell. Don’t tell me — I’ve got it! Clackers. These (see picture; click to enlarge) charming stories follow the adventures of Bee and Fish, two lovable [...]

A Thrilling Set of Books

Ladies and gents, I present to you an awards ceremony that is certain to be filled with suspense!
That is, I now know the nominees for the 2008 Thriller Awards. The Thriller Awards, which are sponsored by International Thriller Writers, will be announced — with a gasp! — at something called the “ThrillerFest Gala Banquet” (that’s [...]

Harry Potter Bounty

Rats! My bid came up just short.

The Crowds Love ‘Em Anyway

It’s been awhile since I pointed my authoritative wing — shut up! — at River City Books’ national best seller section. Some folks miss it, in fact, since it’s not too far inside the door and by the time they get that far their eyes are seeing so many good options it’s hard to focus. [...]

That’s Not A Book!

Sometimes when I am browsing River City Books’ bargain book tables I see something that blows my mind. Like, for starters, an item that is not a book. The other day I came across this cool floor puzzle that’s perfect for my nephew. It’ll help him learn the states and while it’s brand-new it’s only [...]

For St. Patty’s Day

There was a bird down at the store
Who wanted to be something more
But he ran into a some kind of trouble
Because his brain was the size of a bubble
And so he could be nothing but a bore.