Have you signed up for the inaugural Winter Reading Challenge yet? If it doesn't sound familiar, take a look at Elizabeth's blog here for more details. Registration opened up on Sunday, December 9,  and there are different challenges for youth, teens, and adults. A couple of the challenges on the adult list are to "check out a cookbook and try out a new recipe" and "read a winter themed book". If you're looking for inspiration in those categories, I've compiled some suggestions that fit the bill below.

Looking for something good to read? If you’ve signed up for Summer Reading you’ve probably seen the Recommended Read postcards (if you haven’t, it’s not too late to sign up or start filling out cards!). On the cards, simply let us know what you’re reading and why you would/would not recommend it. You can drop these off at the Information Desk and we draw winners every week for additional Summer Reading prizes. You’re reading anyway; why not try to win? Here’s a sampling of the book suggestions and comments your fellow readers have submitted in the first few weeks. 

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of chef Anthony Bourdain on June 8th.  He was one of my favorite food writers and television personalities.  A drug addict early in his cooking career, Bourdain turned his life around and became one of the most successful food personalities in America starting with his memoir Kitchen Confidential published in 2000.  With his success, Bourdain frequently advocated for the underdog.

Oh sure, you could read about beach houses, dog detectives, and middle aged women getting a new lease on life while you’re enjoying the hot August sun.  But what’s the fun in that?  You already know how those books end-- the dog solves the crime, the middle age woman finds a new love at the beach house (the hunky repairman, let’s say).  Instead, take a trip to the dark side this summer and check out one of these recommended reads below.  They are still fun and fast reads, but just a touch more sinister!    

As part of the library's Summer Reading Challenge, teens have been writing about books they've enjoyed on Recommended Read entries, which enter them into weekly drawings for prizes. Take a look at some recent recommendations teens have submitted, and find something new to read!

‘My Essential Books’ is a new feature on the FRVPLD blog, where we talk up our favorite books in the hope that you may give them a chance, or at least appreciate our passion for the titles that have made us who we are.

The Norton Shakespeare (2nd Ed.)

It's Winter Break! Since it's freezing (and probably snowing) outside and you're stuck inside the house, I recommend bundling up in your favorite chair and relaxing with a good book. Here are some of the latest additions to the teen collection:

We all know we shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but with so many new teen books having such eye-catching and unique designs, I don't follow that statement much these days. Each of these covers pulls the reader in, and I can't decide what to read next! Take a look and find something new to read:

In recognition of Veteran’s Day, here are some novels about the experiences of American veterans in different wars.

The Girl in The Red Coat by Kate Hamer