Looking for a book to share with your children during the holiday season?  Whether you are seeking a Hanukkah story, Christmas book, or even something about the winter solstice, we have some suggestions.  Our list of recommended reads is for children of all ages.  Peruse, and find one that suits your family best! Read More »

There's a certain feeling in the air. It's starting to get a little colder, a little brighter and a little kinder. It must be Christmas! Are you looking for books about Christmas to get you in the spirit of this festive holiday? 1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Everybody knows the story of A Christmas Carol. Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his late business partner, Jacob Marley, one Christmas Eve. He warns Scrooge that he will never be happy as long as he stuck to his greedy ways and that he will be visited by three ghosts. Just as...

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Dropping by Oregon for a vacation? Why not drop by at these times and visit these literary festivals. 1. Oregon Writing Festival The Oregon Writing Festival takes place every May at the Portland State University. Every year, they invite authors of books catering to kids from grades 4 to 12. This festival helps promote local writing activities and festivals, as well as connects writers to other Oregon writers and authors as well. They also take the time to honor and recognize outstanding student and teacher writers. 2. Tapestry of Tales Storytelling Festival The Tapestry Of Tales Storytelling Festival celebrates its 10th year this 2009...

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Planning on visiting Boston between April and November? Then be sure to drop by these literary festivals! 1. Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair The Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair happens every November at the Hynes Convention Center. The book fair features an extensive collection of antiquarian books exhibited and for sale, including rare collectibles and first editions. Other activities include author appearances and book signings. 2. Three Apples Storytelling Festival The Three Apples Storytelling Festival occurs every September in the small town of Bedford, Massachusetts. To get people excited about the festival, the organizers arrange for Preview Performances, where libraries host free storytelling performances...

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Some books become classics for a reason. Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe is one of them. The actual title of Defoe’s book is The Life and Strange Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe of York, Mariner. The wordiness of the title on the cover is an indication of the story that lies beneath. Defoe’s writing is filled with long, cumbersome sentences that are delightfully layered with meaning and content. Robinson Crusoe was first published in 1719, yet it feels relevant and fresh even in the light of the 21st century. Nearly three hundred years after it was written,...

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