Author Spotlight:  James Baldwin

Author Spotlight: James Baldwin

James Baldwin’s stepfather made fun of him when he was growing up, ridiculing his “frog eyes” and calling him the ugliest boy he had ever seen. Baldwin would state later that he had no reason not to believe him. The oldest of nine children, Baldwin was born in Harlem...
Author Spotlight: Edgar Allan Poe

Author Spotlight: Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe has added far more to the literary landscape than he is credited. That is my opinion, of course; but, if you look at his accomplishments in the 40 short years of his life, it is truly amazing. A bit of a tragic childhood, Poe was no stranger to losing...
Benefits of Book Clubs

Benefits of Book Clubs

I love my book Clubs!  I am in two.  One started just last year with my collegiate and alum sorority sisters.  It was been really fun discussing books with younger and smarter sorority sisters.  My second club, I have been a member for a couple of years now.  Shout...
Author Spotlight: Linda Olsson

Author Spotlight: Linda Olsson

Author Spotlight: Linda Olsson   When I first picked up Linda Olsson’s novel Astrid & Veronika, I was drawn to the cover. The simplicity of the photograph, along with the simplicity of the title. And yet, there were so many layers to these two things....
Banned Books Week: How to Report

Banned Books Week: How to Report

As Banned Books Week draws to a close, do you know what to do if you experience censorship? The National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) works to protect your right to information. They have three active programs: 1. The Youth Free Expression Program empowers...
Banned Books Week: By the Numbers

Banned Books Week: By the Numbers

Did you ever wonder who is asking for materials to be removed, challenging the acceptability of items, or where these requests/demands are made? Here is a very informative graphic from the American Library...