To our 3 Book Giveaway Winners!
Merlin's Dragon winner: Mrs. F
Mudbound winner: Kimberly & Rufus
State By State winner: JediWright
email me you addy through the store website and I'll get the books out this weekend. Thanks for joining in the fun, and watch for another winter related giveaway in January!
Sam @ Aaron's Books
Friday, December 12, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Sam's fave reads from 2008
These are my favorite reads from 2008 (although not all were published this year.. some I just finally got around to reading in 2008!) As you will see I'm what I call a "fluff" girl. I love a quick story with a happy ending... Enjoy my list! (and remember, it's never too late to buy a book for a holiday gift!)
The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible by A. J. Jacobs Documents the author's quest to live one year in literal compliance with biblical rules, from being fruitful and multiplying to growing a beard and avoiding mixed-fiber clothing.
I'm not a Bible reader... never have been, never really will be, even though I'm a church goer and have done Bible studies; but this book was fascinating. It was poignant with some of the lessons the author learned about himself and his beliefs, but also had me laughing out loud at some of his "tasks"- like stoning an old man in Central Park for being an adulterer.
Eleanor vs. Ike: A Novel by Robin Gerber An alternate history tale that imagines what might have transpired had Eleanor Roosevelt run for president against Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1952 traces the campaign in light of the unpopular Korean War, McCarthyism, and Roosevelt's chance encounter with five-year-old Hillary Rodham.
I love Eleanor and all she stood for. She's been a personal hero of mine for 20 years. I was moved to tears seeing her house in NY, so when I saw and ARC of this at a trade show I had to grab it. I'm so glad I did. I learned a lot about the lady, and was sucked into a great story that pulled very little punches in describing the political climate of the mid- 20th century, especially within the Democratic Party.
Norway to Hide: A Passport to Peril Mystery by Maddy Hunter Emily Andrews begins to expect the worst when her transgender ex-husband Jackie is assigned to be her roommate for her Scandinavian tour with her favorite Iowa senior citizens, Jackie's new novel raises the ire of an ardent critic who turns up dead, and Emily must track down a killer, all the while trying to salvage her upcoming nuptials from her mother's machinations.
I just love this series, and was sad to read this last one (although I'm hoping the series will continue!!!) This is the most laugh out loud cozy series I've read. The little old ladies and men are just a hoot. Having grown up in Europe and taking similar tours, I have a special fondness for Emily and her knack for getting into having trouble find her. Not a cozy series to be missed (you do have to read them in order though, to get the full effect of these whacky personalities!)
The Quilter's Apprentice by Jennifer Chiaverini I finally got around to starting this popular series... and I'm hooked. My favorites of the series are the ones that take place at the quilting camp.
Murder Is Binding by Lorna Barrett When fellow bookstore owner Doris Gleason is murdered, Tricia Miles discovers that someone wanted to get their hands on a rare cookbook in Doris's possession and that the locals believe that someone is her.
this by far was the best cozy series debut this year (at least in my humble cozy addicted opinion)... seriously what can be bad about a book that takes place in a town of indie bookstores????
The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan An ecological and anthropological study of eating offers insight into food consumption in the twenty-first century, explaining how an abundance of unlimited food varieties reveals the responsibilities of everyday consumers to protect their health and the environment.
This one coupled with Kingsolver's "Animal Vegetable Miracle", which was on of my top picks in 2007, have changed our family's eating habits. We now shop at the local farmer's market for fresh produce (mostly organic), buy locally made freshly baked breads when possible, and have a grass fed pig sitting in our garage freezer... it really is a life changing book if you are up to the challenge...
Lady Flees Her Lord by Michele Ann Young Fleeing from an abusive marriage after failing to produce an heir, Lady Denbigh starts life anew posing as a poor window with a small daughter, but when Lord Hugo Wanstead goes in pursuit of her, Lady Denbigh fears losing everything that matters when their worlds collide once again
Hot guy, plump heroine, steamy love, Regency England.. sounds like perfection to me!
Some other picks I read this year that I couldn't put down:
Handbags and Homicide (A Haley Randolph Mystery) by Dorothy Howell
Used World by Haven Kimmel
The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn
Church of the Dog by Kaya McLaren
Murder With All The Trimmings by Elaine Viets
Eggs in Purgatory by Laura Childs
and some coming in early 2009 to keep an eye out for:
The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister
Addition by Toni Jordan
Barbie and Ruth by Robin Gerber
The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible by A. J. Jacobs Documents the author's quest to live one year in literal compliance with biblical rules, from being fruitful and multiplying to growing a beard and avoiding mixed-fiber clothing.
I'm not a Bible reader... never have been, never really will be, even though I'm a church goer and have done Bible studies; but this book was fascinating. It was poignant with some of the lessons the author learned about himself and his beliefs, but also had me laughing out loud at some of his "tasks"- like stoning an old man in Central Park for being an adulterer.
Eleanor vs. Ike: A Novel by Robin Gerber An alternate history tale that imagines what might have transpired had Eleanor Roosevelt run for president against Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1952 traces the campaign in light of the unpopular Korean War, McCarthyism, and Roosevelt's chance encounter with five-year-old Hillary Rodham.
I love Eleanor and all she stood for. She's been a personal hero of mine for 20 years. I was moved to tears seeing her house in NY, so when I saw and ARC of this at a trade show I had to grab it. I'm so glad I did. I learned a lot about the lady, and was sucked into a great story that pulled very little punches in describing the political climate of the mid- 20th century, especially within the Democratic Party.
Norway to Hide: A Passport to Peril Mystery by Maddy Hunter Emily Andrews begins to expect the worst when her transgender ex-husband Jackie is assigned to be her roommate for her Scandinavian tour with her favorite Iowa senior citizens, Jackie's new novel raises the ire of an ardent critic who turns up dead, and Emily must track down a killer, all the while trying to salvage her upcoming nuptials from her mother's machinations.
I just love this series, and was sad to read this last one (although I'm hoping the series will continue!!!) This is the most laugh out loud cozy series I've read. The little old ladies and men are just a hoot. Having grown up in Europe and taking similar tours, I have a special fondness for Emily and her knack for getting into having trouble find her. Not a cozy series to be missed (you do have to read them in order though, to get the full effect of these whacky personalities!)
The Quilter's Apprentice by Jennifer Chiaverini I finally got around to starting this popular series... and I'm hooked. My favorites of the series are the ones that take place at the quilting camp.
Murder Is Binding by Lorna Barrett When fellow bookstore owner Doris Gleason is murdered, Tricia Miles discovers that someone wanted to get their hands on a rare cookbook in Doris's possession and that the locals believe that someone is her.
this by far was the best cozy series debut this year (at least in my humble cozy addicted opinion)... seriously what can be bad about a book that takes place in a town of indie bookstores????
The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan An ecological and anthropological study of eating offers insight into food consumption in the twenty-first century, explaining how an abundance of unlimited food varieties reveals the responsibilities of everyday consumers to protect their health and the environment.
This one coupled with Kingsolver's "Animal Vegetable Miracle", which was on of my top picks in 2007, have changed our family's eating habits. We now shop at the local farmer's market for fresh produce (mostly organic), buy locally made freshly baked breads when possible, and have a grass fed pig sitting in our garage freezer... it really is a life changing book if you are up to the challenge...
Lady Flees Her Lord by Michele Ann Young Fleeing from an abusive marriage after failing to produce an heir, Lady Denbigh starts life anew posing as a poor window with a small daughter, but when Lord Hugo Wanstead goes in pursuit of her, Lady Denbigh fears losing everything that matters when their worlds collide once again
Hot guy, plump heroine, steamy love, Regency England.. sounds like perfection to me!
Some other picks I read this year that I couldn't put down:
Handbags and Homicide (A Haley Randolph Mystery) by Dorothy Howell
Used World by Haven Kimmel
The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn
Church of the Dog by Kaya McLaren
Murder With All The Trimmings by Elaine Viets
Eggs in Purgatory by Laura Childs
and some coming in early 2009 to keep an eye out for:
The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister
Addition by Toni Jordan
Barbie and Ruth by Robin Gerber
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Holiday Shopping Book Giveaway!
Three books will be given out this month! Each book is a recommended gift book for the boy, girl, mom or dad on your shopping list.
Just post a comment to this blog with your choice, and you'll be entered to win... link to this blog on yours or on Facebook or Twitter, send me the link and you've been entered 2 times (or 4 if you do all three!). Become a "follower" of this blog and you've been entered another time! Not yet a fan of Aaron's Books on Facebook, or following us on Twitter?? Join us there and be entered to win again!Deadline to post here and enter the other ways is Dec. 11th. Winners will be announced the 12th, and books in the mail on the 13th... arriving in time for the gift giving!
The books:
Basil, a small, flying lizard who is searching for others like himself, discovers that there is more to him than he knows, as he becomes engaged in Avalon's great war between the evil Rhita Gawr and the forces of good.
Gr 6 Up Set between Barron's "Lost Years of Merlin" and "Great Tree of Avalon" series, this book focuses on Basil, a unique lizard that sets out to understand his identity and his destiny. While small, Basil has a magical ability to create smells, and he uses his talent and his wits to escape a number of foes. After a series of encounters with the wizard Merlin, including attending his wedding, Basil learns from the good spirit Dagda that the evil spirit Rhita Gawr has entered the lands of Avalon and that Merlin is in grave danger. With the wind sister Aylah, he travels to all seven realms, learning about each one and about himself in his quest to save Merlin and all of Avalon from the magic-devouring kreelix. While this adventure starts out slowly and spans almost 40 years, the pace picks up rapidly during the second half. Basil is a prickly and entertaining hero, and his comments about life at the start of each chapter add tone and humor. Barron's return to Avalon will be welcomed by his many fans, who will have the patience to explore the lands with Basil and learn more about their history.Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI[Page 173]. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.
In 1946, Laura McAllan tries to adjust after moving with her husband and two children to an isolated cotton farm in the Mississipi Delta.
Jordan's poignant and moving debut novel, winner of the 2006 Bellwether Prize, takes on social injustice in the postwar Mississippi Delta. Here, two families, the landowning McAllans and their black sharecroppers, the Jacksons, struggle with the mores of the Jim Crow South. Six distinctive voices narrate the complex family stories that include the faltering marriage of Laura and Henry McAllan, the mean-spirited family patriarch and his white-robed followers, and returning war heroes Jamie McAllan and Ronsel Jackson. In every respect, the powerful pull of the land dominates their lives. Henry leaves a secure job with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to buy their farm, never noticing that the refined and genteel Laura dreams of escaping the pervasive mud and dreary conditions of farm life. Ronsel, encouraged by his war-hero status as a tank commander, wants to break away from the past and head North to a better future, while his parents, knowing no other life but farming, struggle to buy their own land. Jordan faultlessly portrays the values of the 1940s as she builds to a stunning conclusion. Highly recommended for all public libraries.Donna Bettencourt, Mesa Cty. P.L., Grand Junction, CO[Page 100]. Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.
Collects original writings on all fifty states by leading novelists, journalists, and essayists, in a volume that includes Anthony Bourdain on New Jersey, Dave Eggers on Illinois, and Louise Erdrich on North Dakota.
Weiland (deputy editor, Paris Review ) and Wilsey, who coedited The Thinking Fan's Guide to the World Cup , were inspired by the famous WPA guides of the 1930s to bring together this collection of original essays. Each piece here may be smaller in scope than the original WPA state guides, but the overall editorial task is ambitious. Consisting of 50 essays from 50 different authors, including Dave Eggers (Illinois), Anthony Bourdain (New Jersey), S.E. Hinton (Oklahoma), and Jhumpa Lahiri (Rhode Island), this work aims to provide more than mere demographic information about each state (though it does include that). Each also offers a personal, distinct, and often humorous look at the state in question. Particularly inventive are two pieces told in the style of graphic novels, one by Joe Sacco (Oregon) and the other by Alison Bechdel (Vermont). Readers with an interest in the endless variety of attitudes, lifestyles, viewpoints, and experiences to be found across America will enjoy this work. Recommended for public libraries.Elizabeth L. Winter, Georgia Inst. of Technology, Atlanta[Page 146]. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.
Monday, December 1, 2008
December Delights @ Aaron's Books
December is full of events for you and your family at Aaron’s Books
Susquehanna Sustainable Business Network Shop Local Week
December 3-9
15% off New Books
Buy One Get One FREE on Select Used Books!
www.thinklocalsusquehanna.com
Joan Landis
Saturday December 6, 1-3pm
“Oh My God…She’s Huge!!” is the first book of its kind, in which Landis describes quite vividly the real life trials and tribulations of living in the lonely and often secretive world of morbid obesity. By sharing her experience from such a unique, honest, and deeply personal perspective, Landis draws readers into her story—whether fat or thin, readers are able to identify with much of what she has to say. “Oh My God…She’s Huge!!” is a lighthearted yet poignant look at this obesity epidemic, and the social stigma that is associated with it.
Gregory is a strong supporter of independent bookstores, and he has written a fabulous blog about his recent experience with his new book: www.wildriverreview.com/oped_bookswoutbordes.php
Connect with Aaron’s Books at Facebook & Twitter
Susquehanna Sustainable Business Network Shop Local Week
December 3-9
15% off New Books
Buy One Get One FREE on Select Used Books!
www.thinklocalsusquehanna.com
Joan Landis
Saturday December 6, 1-3pm
“Oh My God…She’s Huge!!” is the first book of its kind, in which Landis describes quite vividly the real life trials and tribulations of living in the lonely and often secretive world of morbid obesity. By sharing her experience from such a unique, honest, and deeply personal perspective, Landis draws readers into her story—whether fat or thin, readers are able to identify with much of what she has to say. “Oh My God…She’s Huge!!” is a lighthearted yet poignant look at this obesity epidemic, and the social stigma that is associated with it.
An Evening of Romance & ChocolateWith Two-time RWA RITA© Finalist TERRI BRISBIN
Wednesday, December 10
6-8pm
Chocolate treats provided by Café Chocolate!
Two-time Romance Writer’s Association RITA® Award Finalist Terri Brisbin will speak about her writing and the romance genre. Her latest novella, “Blame it on the Mistletoe” is a captivating tale of finding an old crush amid holiday cheer in the anthology Candelit Christmas, set in the Regency Period of England (Harlequin, November 2008, $5.99). ALA Bookslist called Brisbin’s latest novel from her acclaimed highland warriors MacLerie Series, a “richly emotional and splendidly sexy medieval romance”. A two-time RWA RITA® finalist, Terri has been writing romance fiction since 1995, has published 16 historical and paranormal romances, and is now working on more romance novels and novellas for release in 2008 and 2009 from Harlequin Historical Romances. When not living the glamorous life of a romance author in the southern NJ suburbs, Terri spends her time as a married mom of three boys and one daughter-in-law as well as a dental hygienist of hundreds. Active in several RWA local chapters, Terri currently serves on the Board of Directors of Romance Writers of America.Celebrate the Holidays Historically!
On December 12 (as part of Lovin’ Lititz Every 2nd), our friends from the Society for Creative Anachronism will join us. They will demonstrate holiday traditions from Medieval and Renaissance Europe.An afternoon with Science Fiction/Fantasy
author Gregory Frost
Saturday, Dec. 20
1-3pm
Gregory Frost is the author of many Science Fiction/Fantasy novels and short stories. His two most recent books are “Shadowbridge” & its sequel “Lord Tophet” (Del Rey Books, July 2008)."Frost brings the charm of an ancient storyteller and the wit of a contemporary tale-spinner to this dramatic tale, effortlessly manipulating his troupe of mortals and immortals and bringing the truths and myths of Shadowbridge equally to life."—Publishers WeeklyGregory is a strong supporter of independent bookstores, and he has written a fabulous blog about his recent experience with his new book: www.wildriverreview.com/oped_bookswoutbordes.php
And don’t forget that we now have more than one million books, CDs & DVDs for sale online at www.aaronsbooksonline.com.
Aaron’s- NOT Amazon!
Store Gift Certificates Available!
Holiday Store Hours(11/28-12/24)
Monday-Wednesday : 10am-4pm
Thursday & Friday : 10am-6pm
Saturday : 9am-5pm
Sundays : 9-3
Every 2nd Friday ’til 9pm
Connect with Aaron’s Books at Facebook & Twitter
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