The Leisure Seeker

The Leisure Seeker by Michael Zadoorian

Michael’s latest book is the story of Ella and John Robina of Detroit Michigan. They’re both older and he has dementia and she has cancer. What a pair. Ella decides they need one more road trip to Disneyland before it’s too late. Only their kids already think that. No matter. Ella packs up the Leisure Seeker and off they go. Off to travel on Route 66 and down Memory Lane.

It is a great story. I laughed, I cried, I identified. As so many of us will as we deal with aging parents and life that isn’t what we remember it to be. And Michael tells it so well.

I understand Michael has dealt with some of the issues in the book. It is said to write well, one should write what one knows. That and this is Michael’s second novel after Secondhand. You can tell he has gotten better at his craft.

So go see that independent bookseller and pick up a copy or two. Or come to the Romeo District Library (65821 Van Dyke Road, Washington, MI 48095) on May 7^th at 7:30 PM to meet Michael, pick up a copy of his newest book (from my favorite independent bookstore-The Books Connection of Shelby). It should be a fun evening. And there will be cookies.

Find all the places mentioned on the web: www.MichaelZadoorian.com

Romeo District Library www.libcoop.net/romeo
The Books connection www.booksconnectionofshelby.com

ARC's

I received my first ARC (Advance reading copy) a few weeks ago. I can’t tell what a thrill it was for me. Especially since I have met the author but I really didn’t think she would know me from any other librarian out there.
It is for Megan Abbott’s newest book “Bury Me Deep”. (http://www.meganabbott.com/) It was excellent. As Megan’s books always are. Set in Depression era Arizona, it is based on the true story of Winnie Ruth Judd, a woman accused of murdering her two friends. I’ll leave the details at that- you’ll just have to get the book and read it when it comes out in July. Or tell your local librarian to make sure it is on order so you can have in hand on release date. Librarians love it when you do that-trust me.

I love the way Megan can create atmosphere with just a few words. Her novels are considered noir and they really do echo the novels of the time period she writes in. And I do mean in because she must be totally immersed to be able to write as she does. But you’d never know it if you met her. She is just lovely and not at all dark and mysterious-OK, maybe she does mysterious but I’ve only seen nice. After all, most women want to be mysterious every once in a while-even Library fairies.

Go out and order that book. Best yet- order it from an independent book seller. They’re nicer than any big box store and once you establish yourself with one, you’ll never go back.

Lost

One of the things I love about reading is getting lost in a good book. I love how you can lose all sense of time passing. Just this morning I was reading and I looked up and I was amazed at how little time had actually passed but so much had happened in the book. It was something. Reading has come easily to me as long as I can remember and I have always loved how a book can take you out of time and place. That's why working in a place filled with books is book a joy and a constant source of irritation- SO many books, so little time. Ahhh, for days off and retirement time. My TBR (to be read) list will be delightful.

A Jewel of a Book

I finally got to read my copy of Beverly Jenkin's book "Jewel". It is a romance set in the 1800's in western Michigan. It's not only a romance, but a history lesson too. I don't want to make it sound boring because it is anything but. Beverly has a unique way to tell you what happened and make it interesting too. OK- Maybe interesting isn't the right word either. How about pulse racing, fan-yourself-oh-my, *blush*blush*, whooo interesting. Beverly sneaks in that history between scenes of steamy romance. Gotta love it.

"Jewel" is the story of Eli Grayson and Jewel Crowley. They were always friends but grew apart as life took them in different directions. Now Eli needs a wife for a night and asks Jewel to masquerade as her and what a world of trouble it brings for both of them- or does it?

I've had the pleasure of meeting Beverly Jenkins and she is an amazing woman. Very dynamic and funny, a pleasure to converse with. Her books span the categories of historical romance, contemporary romantic suspense, young adult novels, and now contemporary romance. I just read she has a new book out "Bring on the Blessings" and it sounds like another well written book. A new direction for Beverly too, as it is described by Marcia Abramson of the Detroit Free Press, as a contemporary novel. Not to say that she won't sneak in a little historic information or romance into it either- I can hardly wait to read it.
You should too.

Audio Books

Like many people, my days are very full (not only am I a library Fairy, I am also a full time laundry fairy, candy fairy, hosehold supply, etc.-it can be exhausting).
Frequently, I find I can "read" more books if I listen to them in my car. Friends are amazed as most of my commutes are 15 minutes or less but it works for me. It's great on long trips, especially when the family agrees. It is also a good way to read books you may not normally pick up to read. I find it helpful for history, which I love, but it can be slow going to read.

I am currently reading "The Adoration of Jenna Fox"- a YA title that is quite interesting. It involves the future, bio ethics and a bunch of teen-agers. I can't wait to see where it goes next.

Last year I listened to "I Feel Bad About My Neck" read by the author Nora Ephrom. It was great. There is something special about books read by the author. It brings the book more alive as the author is able to convey what they mean via vocal inflection.

So try it sometime. Your local librarians are more than happy to give you their opinion about books anytime.