Staff Picks

I just finished reading my first graphic novel and it was nothing like I expected.  Instead of the exploits of super heroes and super villains, in Jerusalem: Chronicles of a Holy City, I found an engaging look at what it’s like to live in the volatile climate of modern Jerusalem. 

I almost feel like I have visited the historic city, thanks to Guy Delise’s simple pencil drawings and the very human characters that live in the pages of this book.  I certainly know a lot more about the city and the clashes that arise between devote and non-practicing members of the three major religions that dominate Jerusalem than I did before reading this book.  

Jerusalem is rich in holy sites, customs and conflicts.  Road blocks, check points and tourists from all over the world complicate daily life.  Despite the heavy military presence, there’s also the very serious threat of terrorism and violence. 

Anyone who wants to learn more about the subject or is considering visiting the area will gain some real insight from this unique book.     

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist

Staff Picks

Talk about a must-read title! The first chapter of Ron Ronson’s The Psychopath Test reads like the beginning of a science fiction novel-- one that I definitely couldn’t put down!   

When a group of Mensa-level strangers each receives a book of cryptic notes and M.C. Escher drawings from an unknown source they hire journalist Ron Ronson to find out why.  After a bit of detective work he offers the answer but it’s not what the sages were expecting.  

The effect of the hoax on the recipients becomes the starting point for a fascinating look at the definition of madness and the industry of labeling psychopaths.   Ronson even confronts a few individuals who just might qualify for the diagnosis.  It all makes for a very interesting read!

 Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist

Staff Picks

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel Brown is a fascinating read about a rowing team from the University of Washington in the 1930s.  The boys are growing up and maturing into men during the Great Depression.  Their humble beginnings and hopeful dreams of a better life are only part of the story. 

 The author, Daniel James Brown did his research on all aspects related to the people and the times. “In doing so, he offers a vivid picture of the socioeconomic landscape of 1930s America (brutal), the relentlessly demanding effort required of an Olympic-level rower, the exquisite brainpower and materials that go into making a first-rate boat, and the wiles of a coach who somehow found a way to, first, beat archrival University of California, then conquer a national field of qualifiers, and finally, defeat the best rowing teams in the world. A book that informs as it inspires." Booklist Reviews (2012)

Joan Dudzinski

Information Specialist