The Book Corner: New programs from the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library

Summer is now officially in full swing and if you’re looking for additional books to add to your summer reading list, there are many thrilling titles awaiting your bookshelf. Also, the librarians at the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library share exciting information about the new children and adult summer programs that just launched to kick off summer reading!

“Panther Gap” by James A. McLaughlin. Praised as "a modern classic of the American West,” the novel tells the story of two estranged siblings brought back together by the prospect of inheriting millions in ill-gotten gains from their late grandfather, only to discover dark family secrets that force them to reconcile with each other and their past.

“The Little Italian Hotel” by Phaedra Patrick. Ginny Splinter is an acclaimed radio host and advice expert who’s shocked when her husband of 25 years tells her he wants a divorce instead of their anniversary trip to Italy. Impulsively, she invites four strangers to join instead for a vacation of healing and second chances.

“Suddenly” by Isabelle Autissier. A young couple from Paris sets out on the adventure of a lifetime: a journey by sailboat around the tip of Cape Horn. But when they stop on a deserted island to explore the barren landscape, they find themselves stranded. It’s a stunning, harrowing tale of survival from an expert in sailing and what happens to those who live through such experiences.

“Going Rogue” by Janet Evanovich. Stephanie Plum breaks the rules, flirts with disaster, and shows who’s boss in this “fast and fun” (Publishers Weekly) thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling author.

“Murder on Mustang Beach” by Alicia Bessette. When a killer stirs up trouble in the Outer Banks, amateur sleuth and bookseller Callie Padget is on the case.

“Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl” by Renee Rosen. It’s 1938 and Estee Lauder is a young woman selling face cream out of a New York City beauty parlor, determined to prove she can have it all. She’s about to take the world by storm in this dazzling novel from a USA Today bestselling author.

“The Stolen Coast” by Dwyer Murphy. Adrift in a sleepy coastal Massachusetts town, a man who ferries fugitives by day gets twisted up in a plot to pilfer diamonds in this Casablanca-infused heist novel from the editor-in-chief of CrimeReads.

“None of This is True” by Lisa Jewell. From the #1 New York Times bestselling author known for her “superb pacing, twisted characters, and captivating prose” (BuzzFeed), Jewell’s scintillating new psychological thriller is about a woman who finds herself the subject of her own popular true crime podcast.

Library Director Cathleen Sulli shares what’s new for popular adult books.

Coming in July is Express Books. If you want to read a current best seller but don’t want to wait, you can check out the library’s Express Book section shelved in the New Book area. “We’re adding second copies of our most popular books. No holds are required and no renewals are allowed, but you have them for 14 days,” said Sulli. The books are on a “first come, first served basis. You can ask the librarians for title suggestions and they will be adding new titles all summer. “We have great beach reads as well as great non-fiction titles. Love adventure? Read “The Peking Express by James Zimmerman – history comes alive as a train derails, passengers are abducted, and governments work to liberate the hostages. Watch the author talk with James Zimmerman on our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMX211hfYswLAvi8aVtvM0Q?view_as=subscriber

He’s an amazing storyteller. Enjoy the summer with books!” said Sulli.

Children’s Librarian Jen Gileno shares news from the children's room:

This year, the library is placing a focus on the fun and excitement of reading by making it an interactive experience. Young readers can stop by the library to pick up a summer reading bag that’s filled with a blank book where children can write, draw, or share something from a book they’ve read on each page. Also included are active reading prompts including designing a bookmark inspired by a book; drawing a story map, illustrating different settings or important locations in a book; writing an interview with one of a book’s characters; and more. After reading five books, kids can pick a prize from the library’s treasure chest.

“We believe in empowering children to choose their path regarding reading responses. We understand that every child is unique, with their own interests and strengths, so we’re offering a variety of reading response options for kids ages 6-11, which can be done independently or combined,” explained Gileno. “Kids can choose to complete one, all, or even select parts of these responses based on what resonates with them the most. By incorporating drawing and writing, we aim to tap into children’s creativity, allowing them to explore their imagination while expressing their thoughts about the books they read. We encourage children to embrace their individuality and enjoy the process of engaging with stories in their own unique way.”

July happenings at the library:

Backyard Concert: Goat Rodeo

Monday, July 10; 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Goat Rodeo plays improvisational rock ’n roll flavored with blues, country, and folk. The vibe is easy, the groove is hypnotic, and the tunes are drawn from the Great Americana songbook — from Dylan and the Dead to CSNY and the Stones, with a few tasty originals as well. Founding members (and longtime North Salemites) Eric Pooley (guitar/vocal) and Dave Span (drums, vocal) kick up dust with Tom Casciato (guitar/keyboard/vocal), Susan Kane (guitar/vocal), Marshall Messer (harp, vocal), and Michael Principe (bass, vocal).