Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
A quirky and enchanting novel about two sisters, Claire and Sydney Waverly, their lives, and the magical qualities of the plants growing in their backyard garden.
The Nativity Story a DVD directed by Catherine Hardwicke
This DVD depicts the Biblical story of Jesus' birth. While some images are violent and may be overwhelming for younger viewers (in spite of the PG rating), the film offers a beautiful, solemn portrayal of a paramount religious event.
Recommended by Sue Monroe, North Branch Area Library Branch Librarian
The Good Dream by Donna VanLiere. This book takes place in 1950 in Tennessee and is about a single woman who rescues a young boy who has been stealing vegetables from her garden.
Recommended by Donna Larson, Rush City Branch Librarian
Monkeewrench is the first in a series of murder mysteries by mother-daughter writing team, P. J. Tracy (Patricia and Traci Lambrecht). These Minnesota natives do our state proud with a fast-paced, interesting storyline and well-developed, likeable characters that acquaint the reader with Minnesota and Wisconsin places and personalities. I'm working my way through the entire series!
Recommended by Sarah Biro, Chisago Lakes Area Branch Librarian
Covert Affairs: Season 1
TV show about a female spy that ISN'T all about dressing her in sexy clothing. Annie Walker is a tough, smart, and sometimes a little klutzy, young CIA agent with a blind tech operative mentor in Augie to help her out along the way. Every episode has a nice blend of action, drama, and a bit of humor.
Recommended by Ceci Cross-Maser, Hinckley Public Branch Librarian
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
Deals with global warming and climate change. Beautifully written, multi-layered, personal conflicts.
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
This book is already an award winner. It is set on an Ojibwe reservation in North Dakota, tells how one family and one community with multiple jurisdictions deals with the rape of a Native American woman.
Recommended by Kathy Morrow, Mille Lacs Lake Community Library Branch Librarian
The Forever Marriage by Ann Bauer
This novel starts with a husband's death from cancer and the relief that his widow, Carmen feels. The characters are flawed, but very well drawn, including a son with Down's Syndrome. Carmen deals with breast cancer and a long-term love affair as she re-examines her marriage.
Recommended by Lois Novak, Cambridge Public Library Branch Aide
Fearless: the Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team Six Operator Adam Brown by Eric Blehm.
The title pretty much says it all. Mr.Brown never gave up on his goal even when circumstances went against him (also available in e-Books).
