Collection Highlight: Mental Health Awareness Month 2023 - Part 2

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Forsyth County Public Library offers patrons a wide array of current books about keeping the mind healthy, preventing and healing mental illness, and practicing self-care.

In addition to mental health help books like the ones listed in my post earlier this month, FCPL also offers several free online resources that can be accessed through the library website and by entering a library card number and PIN. Here is a sampling: 

A Community Resources Guide and Mental Health Helplist can be accessed on the library eResources page.

FCPL also offers several Medicine, Health, and Wellness resources that provide eBooks, articles, and websites. A few examples are: 

MedlinePlus 
Alt HealthWatch (Alternative Medicine)
Consumer Health Complete

Visit our Community Resource Guide and Mental Health Helplist under eResources or ask a librarian for additional mental health resources for you or for a loved one. 

Read more for a few more current print titles.

Collection Highlight: Mental Health Awareness Month 2023

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Forsyth County Public Library offers patrons a wide array of current books about keeping the mind healthy, preventing and healing mental illness, and practicing self-care.

A few new titles are shared below. Visit our Community Resources Guide and Mental Health Helplist under eResources or ask a librarian for additional mental health resources for you or for a loved one. 

Change Your Brain Every Day: Simple Daily Practices to Strengthen Your Mind, Memory, Moods, Focus, Energy, Habits, and Relationships by Daniel G. Amen, MD. 2023

Psychiatrist and clinical neuroscientist Daniel Amen, MD, draws on over 40 years' clinical practice with tens of thousands of patients to give you the most effective daily habits he has seen that can help you improve your brain, master your mind, boost your memory, and make you feel happier, healthier, and more connected to those you love.

Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder by Gabor Maté, MD. 2023

Scattered Minds explodes the myth of attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) as genetically based and offers real hope and advice for children and adults who live with the condition.

Collection Highlight: Depression and Mental Illness Resources at FCPL, Part 2

Back in August, I posted several new titles that FCPL had recently acquired about depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to attend an excellent presentation on mental health wellness, and it reminded me that it was time to share more of FCPL’s mental health resources with our patrons and staff. 

Thanks to FCPL’s Materials department, patrons have a wide array of current books to choose from to learn more about mental illness for themselves or to help a friend or loved one. 

I have shared a few more new titles below, and I plan to add more titles in the coming months. Please see library staff if you need help finding more resources about depression and mental health.

A Cure for Darkness: The Story of Depression and How We Treat It by Alex Riley

What is depression? Is it a persistent low mood or a complex range of symptoms? Is it a single diagnosis or a diversity of mental disorders requiring different treatments? In A Cure for Darkness, science writer Alex Riley explores these questions, digging into the long history of depression and chronicling the lives of psychiatrists and scientists who sought cures for their patients.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Recognize and Overcome Behaviors for a Healthier, Happier You by Jayme Albin and Eileen Bailey

Are you struggling with destructive thoughts and self-defeating patterns? This book will help you discover powerful tools to identify and overcome anxiety, OCD, anger, panic, stress, and other mood-related conditions by applying the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy to your daily life, which will help you change how you think. Whatever anxiety disorder you are suffering from, or if you are simply unhappy with the results you're getting in life, you have the power to change the outcomes.

Depression by Laura L. Smith, PhD. and Carter H. Elliot PhD. 

In this friendly, cheerful, no-nonsense guide that is part of the “For Dummies” series, leading clinical psychologists Laura L. Smith and Charles H. Elliot demystify common types of depression, explain its physical effects, and help identify the kind you have. Armed in this way, you can take firmer steps toward the lifestyle changes - as well as therapy or medication - that will put you back in control.

Depression, Anxiety, and Other Things We Don't Want to Talk About by Ryan Casey Waller

A pastor and licensed psychotherapist who suffers from depression and anxiety discusses the relationship between mental health and faith while addressing the role of self-care, compassion, and restoration.

Check the August 6, 2021 Bookmarked Blog post to see the first list of new titles focusing on mental health. Library staff are more than happy to help you find more books and other resources about mental health wellness. 

Jeanne McMahan

Information Specialist

Sharon Forks Library

#WeKnowBooks

'Tis the Season for Mystery!

Have you seen the new Enola Holmes movie on Netflix? Interested in Sherlock Holmes?

Try the following takes on the famous detective:

The Beekeeper's Apprentice by Laurie R. King

This book kicks off a series in which a retired Holmes joins scholar Mary Russell and begins a meaningful and unexpected partnership with her as they work together to stop criminals in their tracks.  

 

The Daughter of Sherlock Holmes by Leonard S. Goldberg

This series explores the detective work of a previously unknown daughter of Holmes who shows much of the same brilliance of her famous father. She is married to Dr. Watson, Jr. and works together with the two Drs. Watson to solve baffling mysteries. 

 

The House of Silk by Anthony Horowitz

This book is the first to be officially sanctioned by the Conan Doyle estate as an authorized Sherlock Holmes mystery. It features Holmes, Watson, and Mrs. Hudson together again in an entirely new and surprising adventure while still including many nods to the original stories.  

Amy Whitten

Information Specialist

#WeKnowBooks

Staff Picks: Fiction for Introverts

While extroverts may find social distancing isolation difficult, introverts confined in close quarters with their housemates may long for some alone time. If your best conversations are with your own inner voice, the characters in these short fiction novels may be relatable.

Weather by Jenny Offill

Lizzie Benson balances working at a public library while caring for family members and supporting a fringe environmental organization. This slice-of-modern-life story focuses on mental health issues and global concerns. 

Also available as an eAudiobook on OverDrive.

The Circus by Jonas Karlsson

A Swedish baker gains valuable insight after he loses a lifelong friend in a bizarre disappearing act mishap. Fans of The Twilight Zone and psychological fiction will enjoy this one!

 Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

Keiko Furukura is content with her job at the neighborhood convenience store even though her family and friends have different ideas about what she should do with her life. This award-winning Japanese translation has become a favorite of introverts around the globe.

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist
#WeKnowBooks

Books and eResources for Handling a Creative Slump

Is the COVID-19 crisis putting you in a creative slump?  Revive your creative spirit with one of these titles.

Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

I enjoy all of Anne Lamott's work but Bird by Bird, her book on creative writing is my favorite. It's been so phenomenally since publication in 1994 that a 25th Anniversary Edition was released in 2019.

Available as an eBook and eAudiobook

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic offers creative insights from the author of Eat, Pray, Love.

Cultivating Your Creative Life by Alena Hennessy

Creativity and wonder mingle in this multifaced book!

Show Your Work by Austin Kleon

A fun book that offers a creative approach to business pursuits.

Art on the Rocks by F. Sehnaz Bac

Interested in meditative art? Find a smooth stone, grab some paint, and create a mandala you can hold in your hand.

Garden Made by Stephanie Whitney
Get creative outdoors by making unique garden art!

The Drawing Lesson by Mark Crilley

This Teen Graphic Novel offers drawing techniques.  A great title for young aspiring artists!

The Bullet Journal Method by Ryder Carroll

Organize creatively using the bullet journal method. Use a bullet journal or a free online template to print bullet paper.  Use your imagination to design your own calendar or keep track of books to be read, story ideas, films to watch, or healthy habits.

The Zen of Creativity by John Daido Loori

Ancient Buddist techniques to inspire creativity.


FCPL patrons can also access free eResouces from home.

Universal Classes includes seventeen different writing classes like Creative Writing Workshop, Creative Writing 101, Novel Writing 101, and more!  

ArtistWorks has video-based art and music lessons. Learn about art, music theory, scratch, vocal techniques, or how to plan an instrument from a professional.  Sign up for free piano, guitar, ukulele, mandoline, or even harmonica lessons. ArtistWorks also offers instruction on drums and band instruments. These are great resources for students! 

And FCPL's Great Courses offers downloadable audiobooks like Becoming a Great Essayist, Understanding the Fundamentals of Music, The Art of Reading, and many more. 

Explore our eResources or catalog to see what appeals to you. 

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist

#WeKnowBooks 

    

Reading Recommendations: Books for Confusing Times

One of the many things that the COVID-19 crisis has changed is that library staff and patrons can’t talk face to face about our favorite reads. We’re still happy to offer recommendations though. Here are some titles that may address the emotions some of us are experiencing right now.

Feeling confused?  It’s a confusing time. Try one of these stories about characters searching for clarity.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

Christopher, a mathematically-gifted, autistic fifteen-year-old boy puts his mind to solving a case close to home in this endearing novel for adult or young adult readers.

Available as an eBook from our digital catalog.

Who Are You, Calvin Bledsoe? by Brock Clarke

A fifty-year-old internet blogger is kidnapped by a woman claiming to be his aunt and taken on a European adventure in this dark and comic coming of age story.

The Pleasure of My Company by Steve Martin

Gentle, obsessive-compulsive Daniel embarks on a road trip to claim a prize for Most Average American and discovers that anyone can be a hero. Funnyman Steve Martin creates characters you won't soon forget in this sweet, slim story.   

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate Dicamillo

A beloved China bunny is lost and found, lost and found, and lost and found in this delightful story that readers of all ages will enjoy. 

Available as an eBook from our digital catalog.


Place holds for items you want to pick up using our contact-free curbside service or utilize our digital catalog to enjoy books from wherever you are.

Don't forget to register for FPCL's Summer Reading Program to win prizes!

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist
#WeKnowBooks

Virtual Browsing - Reading Recommendations for Dealing with Anxiety

The FCPL staff misses seeing patrons browsing our branches. Until the library reopens to the public, please enjoy virtually browsing online. Today we're highlighting titles that may address emotions brought on by the COVID-19 crises.

Feeling anxious? These books may help you manage that anxiety

10% Happier by Dan Harris

ABC News anchor Dan Harris writes about his own struggles with calming the voice in his head in 10% Happier.  He also shares his own approach to handling anxiety in Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics. 

Gmorning, Gnight by Lin-Manuel Miranda

These inspiring poems offer reassuring words and charming illustrations. Download the eAudiobook to hear them read by Lin-Manuel Miranda himself. Or check out the eBook or print edition to appreciate Jonny Sun's thoughtful illustrations.

First We Make the Beast Beautiful by Sarah Wilson

Long before COVID-19 existed, people were dealing with anxiety.  Sarah Wilson describes her journey coming to terms with it in this beautiful, hardbound book.

Simple Comforts: 50 Heartwarming Recipes

Download this aptly titled book of recipes to your smartphone to create delicious old-fashioned recipes like classic chicken pot pie, macaroni and cheese, and apple pie.  Yum!

Chicken Soup for the Soul

Browse our whole collection of Chicken Soup books. With books tailored for teens, golfers, parents, basketball fans, and cat lovers there's bound to be a book just for you.

One Zentangle a Day by Beckah Krahula

Zentangles offer meditation through drawing. Grab a pencil and paper and check out one of our zentangles books to try it out. No artistic skills needed to enjoy! 

Kyoto Gardens by Judith Clancy

Gorgeous photos from Japanese gardens offer instant relaxation. Browse our travel photography or gardening design books to discover your happy place.

Requested items can be picked up using our contact-free curbside checkout. Our digital collection is always available. Keep reading!

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist
#WeKnowBooks

Armchair Bibliotherapy

Find books that match your moods. We call it armchair bibliotherapy. Today’s titles address emotions that may seem like opposites but can often go hand in hand - loneliness and cynicism.

Feeling down or lonely?  Try one of these titles.

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

This popular book offers readers a fresh perspective for dealing with times in life that get us down. Need a double dose? Check out The Noticer Returns.

Goodbye for Now by Laurie Frankel

This novel about love and grief raises fascinating questions and can be a great conversation starter for book groups. Join FCPL's Goodreads group to see how The Lit Chicks book club members reacted to the story.

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Meet Ove. He can seem off-putting at first but his gruff demeanor hides a heart of gold. A Man Called Ove is a favorite of FCPL staff and patrons. Book clubs love this title too!

Available as an eBook and eAudiobook too!

The Boy, the Mole, The Fox, and the Horse by Charles Mackesy

This charmingly illustrated book is written in a beautiful script and offers friendship metaphors that convey a sense of serenity.

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

In my lifetime of reading, I've yet to discover a better story about friendship than Charlotte's Web. If you've never read the story, you're in for a treat. If you enjoyed it in childhood, you may appreciate it even more as an adult.   
Available as an eBook and eAudiobook.

Unlikely Friendships by Jennifer S. Holland

The photographs in this book document empathy and unlikely friendships in the animal kingdom. Check out Jennifer Holland's other photojournalism books or the children's book Owen & Mzee: the Language of Friendship by Isabella Hatkoff. 

Perhaps you've been feeling more cynical these days. If it's how you cope, indulge your cynicism with one of these books.

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut

If the demise of all life on Earth as a result of human hubris lifts your spirits, you'll love this insightful and hilarious book from an iconic American author.

Also available as an eBook.

Qualityland by Marc-Uwe Kling

Internet overload? In Qualityland one mega-corporation controls all commerce, privacy doesn't exist, nor does 'opting out', and the next president could be a robot.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

Have fun while nursing your cynical feelings. Enjoy this massively popular book about the end of the world and discover the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything.

The FCPL staff looks forward to sharing our favorite reads with patrons in person again. Until then, browse FCPL's catalog virtually and safely.  Keep reading!

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist
#WeKnowBooks

Virtual Browsing - Books with a Nostalgic Feel

Longing for the pre-COVID-19 days? How about a time before smartphones and twenty-four-hour news?  These novels share a nostalgic feel.

A Painted House by John Grisham

Seven-year-old Luke learns all about harvesting cotton and some grim facts of life in this historical novel set in 1952 Arkansas.

Available as an eBook and eAudiobook

Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger

This evocative coming-of-age story takes place in Minnesota over a fateful summer in 1961.

Available as an eBook and eAudiobook.

A Short History of a Small Place by T.R. Pearson

A laugh-out-loud funny book set in Neely, North Carolina back in the "good ole days" of door-to-door dictionary sales and evening newspaper deliveries.

The Secret of Lost Things by Sheridan Hay

This is a great book for booklovers! It's set in a bookshop in 1970s New York and filled with memorable characters.

Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury

Going way back, electric lawnmowers are a novelty for the residents of Green Town, Illinois in this classic novel set in 1928. It's one of my favorite books to reread and always evokes images of Summer. I can literally smell the fresh-cut grass when I'm reading it!

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

I'll never outgrow this classic children's story set in Treegap, New Hampshire in the 1880s that presents a fascinating "what-would-you-do" scenario. Readers of all ages will enjoy this timeless tale.

Available as an eBook and on DVD.

Keep reading! It's the perfect hobby for social distancing.

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist
#WeKnowBooks

A Virtual Literary Apothecary inspired by The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George

The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George 

The Little Paris Bookshop revolves around a man who considers himself a 'literary apothecary' and has a talent for prescribing the exact book to mend a customer's heart and soul. I think it’s a fascinating concept. I hope these books might be just thing to heal some hearts and souls during this uncertain time.


Feeling isolated? If sheltering in place leaves you feeling isolated you may find the characters in these novels relatable.

The Good Luck of  Right Now by Matthew Quick

A grieving son discovers friendship in unlikely places. If you enjoy great characters, you'll love this story.

The  Martian by Andy Weir

Left stranded on Mars, astronaut Mark Watney may be literature's most isolated character. Spend some time with Mark and his disco music collection as he tries to figure out how to survive and make it back home.

Available as an eBook from our digital catalog.

The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey by Walter Mosely

The life of an elderly African American man takes a strange path in this literary novel from a master storyteller.

Care of Wooden Floors by Will Wiles

It won't appeal to everyone but I love this weird, dark novel about a housesitter, cats, and some very delicate floors.




Perhaps you're feeling grumpy?  Under the current circumstances, it's understandable. Try one of these titles to lift your mood or commiserate with some fellow grumps.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

Booklovers will enjoy this story about a set-in-his-ways bookshop owner who rises to the occasion when faced with an unexpected challenge.

Available as an eBook and eAudiobook.

Stephen Colbert's Midnight Confessions by Stephen Colbert

If you haven't laughed in a while, this one's for you.

Grumpy Cat by Grumpy Cat 

Fans of Grumpy Cat have their choice of books. Check out Grumpy Cat, The Grumpy Guide to Life, or enjoy one of our Grumpy Cat children's books. 


Request items today and when you see them "on hold", call FCPL to arrange a contact-free curbside pickup.

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist
#WeKnowBooks