Sunday Synopsis: August 28, 2011

I have had a great day and a great weekend!  I have completed a number of tasks and spent some great time with my kids.  And, I have had some fabulous reading time.  Of course, I still have a number of other things that I need to get completed as soon as I can, but I am choosing to look at the bright side this evening and appreciate the amount of things that I did get done!


Speaking of things I finished . . . I read When the Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka this week and have read the majority of Feed by Mira Grant.  In fact, I really want to get this written, so that I can return to this book!  I'm having a hard time putting it down!  When I am done with that one, I think I am going to move on to the new release, Little Black Dress by Susan McBride.  It looks really good!


Outside of reading, this is another big week for me.  The students return to the University this week where I work and the class I teach begins tomorrow.  I am really excited to see the students again and to be back in the classroom.  I begin to realize more and more how much these two things are what I love most about my job . . . and makes me wonder if it is about time for a slight switch in profession.  Not now, but soon!


Moving beyond the deep thoughts of Tif, I thought I would leave you with the latest on my challenges.  

• The Stephen King/Richard Bachman Challenge (Perpetual)
• 2011 Graphic Novels Challenge (7 of 3-10 Books)
• Off The Shelf Challenge (7 of 30 Books) 
• Young Readers Challenge (9 of 12 Books)
• Take A Chance Challenge 3 (1 of 3 Books)
• 2011 Young Adult Reading Challenge (10 of 50 Books)
• The Dewey Decimal Challenge (2 of 4 Books)
• 100+ Reading Challenge of 2011 (28 of 100 Books)
• Fairy Tale Challenge  (1 of 12 Books/Movies)

That's it for this week!  I've got some great things planned in the coming days, so be sure to check back.  Otherwise, I leave you with one question . . . What's on your reading agenda this week?

Fun Friday: Walken Piggy

After I saw this video, I knew that I had to share it with all of you!  I really do not need to give you much of an introduction though.  Let's just leave it with this . . .  

Christopher Walken Reads The Three Little Pigs!

Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II

Image Courtesy of Wikipedia

Harry Potter is one of my all-time favorite books and definitely my favorite series.  However, I learned many movie releases ago that I need to separate the film from my favorite series.  They are two different entities, one that tends to be loosely based on the works of Rowling.

I went into this final film with this exact same mentality a couple of weeks ago.  Don't get me wrong though . . . I still had expectations and they were set pretty high.  I was satisfied with Part I of Deathly Hallows and I really wanted the final installment to be done "right."

Did I feel that it was done "right?"  Yes and no.  Let's start with the latter . . .

• I was disappointed that some of the characters did not get the face time they deserved.  For example, Lupin and Tonks and their unmentioned son, who just so happens to be Harry's Godson.
• Details were left out, leaving many who have not read the books unable to understand the ending to the fullest extent.  I discovered this after speaking with my husband and several co-workers.  They simply didn't get what happened at the end and why.
• Did anyone else notice that a portion of the previews were NOT in the movie?  If you don't know which scene I'm talking about, let me refresh your memory . . . Voldemort:  "Why won't you die?"  Harry:  "Because I have something worth living for."  (Disclaimer:  This may not be verbatim.)

However, there were a multitude of things that I did enjoy.  Here are just a few highlights . . . 

• The battle scenes were truly brilliant!  As horrible as this sounds, I did not want them to end!  I guess I will be anxiously awaiting the DVD release to watch them again!
• The scene I was anticipating the most between Mrs. Weasley and Bellatrix did not disappoint!
• When looking at the evolution through the movies, I am so impressed at not only how much the young actors grew up, but also how much they grew in talent.  It will be hard to view them as more than Harry, Ron, and Hermoine, but I do look forward to seeing where they will go from here.

All in all, I truly loved the final chapter.  It left me with a mix of emotions . . . satisfaction, triumph, hope, and sadness.  I am sad to see it come to an end, but I am excited to watch my children get to experience it for the first time, both the books and the movies.  And, I'm excited to get my hands on the DVD release to see if maybe this is not quite the end.  There will be extra scenes, right?!?

Were you left with mixed emotions as well?  Were you left with positive or negative thoughts overall?

Ghostopolis by Doug TenNapel

"Garth Hale is as good as dead . . . The only problem is he's still alive.  When Garth Hale is accidentally zapped into the ghost world by Frank Gallows, a washed-up ghost wrangler, he discovers that he has special powers.  Soon he finds himself on the run from the evil ruler of Ghostopolis, who wants to use Garth's newfound abilities to tighten his grip on the spirit world.  After Garth meets Cecil, his grandfather's ghost, the two search for a way to get Garth back home, nearly losing hope until Frank Gallows shows up to fix his mistake."  (from Google Books)

Ghostopolis may seem like a sweet, simple story on the outset, but TenNapel's piece is much more complicated than originally meets the eye.  The young, dying main character, Garth Hale seems weak, on his death bed, but truly is an empowering character who is willing to take on the ultimate evil, a character by the name of Vaugner.  Then, you have the supporting characters . . . Skinny, Cecil, and Frank Gallows to name a few . . . who the reader cannot help but love because of their quirks.  With this combo, Ghostopolis brings you more than just a battle between good and evil.  It addresses the difficult subject of death.  It brings a sweet inner love story and a story about family.  In fact, it has so many little story lines that the book needs to be read more than once to pick up on all of them.  And, this is just what I ingested after one read!

I cannot wrap up this review of a graphic novel without also commenting on the illustrations.  The story is filled with a combination of full color and black and white graphics.  I truly loved them all, but the ones I found to be the most powerful were the black and white illustrations strategically placed throughout those in color.

To sum it up in one sentence . . . Ghostopolis is more than just a fun read and one that I would recommend to young and old alike!

Have you experienced life in Ghostopolis?  How would you sum it up in one sentence?

Meet the Author: Susan McBride!

I am so excited to introduce you to Susan McBride, author of Little Black Dress, being released this week!  She is one of my Literary Locals and you may have seen her mentioned in my earlier article on the Independent Bookstore Cruise Part II.  Today, she shares with us a little bit about herself, her tips for aspiring writers, and so much more.  Let us give Susan a very warm welcome . . .

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Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in the Midwest but grew up all over, including the East Coast and Texas.  My dad worked for IBM, which we called “I’ve Been Moved” because we picked up stakes and resettled every few years.  It was pretty disconcerting, but I think it only intensified my love of books. I could pack those up and take them along with me wherever I went.  I had to get over my shyness as well, and I was a very shy child. I never lived in St. Louis when I was a kid, but my mom grew up here as did her parents and grandparents. My roots are in the Lou now, and I married a St. Louis guy.  So I don’t plan to ever leave!

When you were little, did you always want to be a writer when you grew up?

I don’t think I really ever imagined that “writer” could be a full-time occupation.  I loved books but I always thought I’d be a teacher or a lawyer.  However, at 19, I sat out college for a year and wrote a novel.  That’s when I knew it’s what I wanted to do with my life. I graduated with a B.S. in Journalism from the University of Kansas but never really worked as a journalist.  I knew I wanted to write fiction so that’s what I pursued, and I held some very interesting jobs in order to make time to write. I was eventually published by a small traditional press, and they put out two books before I signed with an agent who got me my first deal with HarperCollins.  I’ve since written five mysteries in my Debutante Dropout series, three young adult “Debs” books for Random House (one of which is in publishing limbo at the moment), and two women’s fiction titles for HC/Morrow (THE COUGAR CLUB and LITTLE BLACK DRESS).  I’ve got two deadlines this year, one for a young adult mystery (Random House) and another women’s fiction title (HC/Morrow).  So it’s a busy time, although every year seems busy to me!

What was your favorite childhood book and why?

I loved JOHNNY TREMAIN, about a boy involved with the Sons of Liberty during the American Revolution.  I’m such a history geek, and I always was. That book made me wish I could’ve been alive during the 18th century, hanging out with Sam Adams, John Adams, and Paul Revere.  I remember seeing the movie in school, too, and that just sealed it.  

You have published more than 10 novels over the years, with your newest Little Black Dress being released on August 23, 2011. Which has been your favorite to write and why does it rank so high?

I’d have to say that LITTLE BLACK DRESS has been my favorite so far.  Although if you ask my husband, he’ll say that my most recent book is always my favorite.  ;-)  But there was something really magical about writing it.  So much was going on in my life at the time—a lot of very emotional things—and I just poured my heart and soul into that book.  I have never cried while writing before, and I did with LITTLE BLACK DRESS.  And I got chills when I went back through it, re-reading.  It’s the first time that ever happened, too.

Share who or what has been your biggest inspiration in writing and life.

Hmm, I’d have to say my husband is a huge inspiration.  He’s just such a good guy and he’s so calm and patient.  He held my hand through my breast cancer diagnosis, through my mom’s breast cancer diagnosis, through a miscarriage, and other very tough moments.  We’ve been together almost six years, and I feel like so much has happened in that time period, maybe a lifetime’s worth of joy and grief.  He makes me very happy to wake up each morning and even more excited that I get to do something I love everyday (write!).  I always felt very satisfied with my life, but being with Ed takes it to a higher level. He inspires me to be a better person and to be a better writer, too.

For all those aspiring writers out there, what advice would you share with them?

Read a lot and often. Try to figure out why some books work for you and others don’t. Pay attention to the pieces of your own life and to the people around you.  Jot down ideas, observations, and bits of conversation. Be willing to write and write some more. Becoming proficient takes practice. It’s like any other profession where you get better and more confident the more you do it.  So don’t freak out if the first thing you write (or the second or third) isn’t ready for publication. You really do want to put your best foot forward.  Learn to take criticism and be open to revision.  I find the most exciting part of the writing process is actually revising!

When you are not reading or writing, what do you like to do?

Um, eat and sleep.  ;-)  I feel like I’m writing all the time and reading whenever I have a spare moment. I do love movies, and Ed and I have a lot of fun doing things like visiting the botanical gardens, going to flea markets, or even bowling.  

What literary destination would you most like to visit (real or imaginary)?

Confession: I’m dying to go to the Harry Potter theme park in Orlando!  I want to taste butterbeer, buy a wand, and act like I’m ten.

Where can my readers find you online (e.g., Facebook, websites, blogs, etc.)?

I’ve got a web site at http://SusanMcBride.com, I blog with The Stiletto Gang (http://thestilettogang.blogspot.com) and with the Girlfriends Book Club (http://girlfriendbooks.blogspot.com).  I’m also on Facebook with a “Books” page at http://facebook.com/susanmcbridebooks and I have a personal FB page:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000474977686

It’s great fun hearing from fellow book lovers so feel free to holler anytime.

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Thank you so much Susan!  I look forward to seeing you at your release party later this week and picking up my very own copy of Little Black Dress to dive into!

Sunday Synopsis: August 21, 2011

This last week has been an exciting one!  My boy started school!  I cannot believe how fast he is growing up and starting yet another year of school.  This year may be First Grade, but tomorrow will probably be high school graduation!  On the short term note, this last week has proven difficult to transition back into the school year routine.  I found that everyone was so tired by the end of the day that our nightly reading time became non-existent, and not just for the kids!  That is just not common around here, and I am hoping for the school routine to get back in gear this upcoming week.  Reading with my kids is my favorite part of the day!

On the blogging front, you may have noticed that I really didn't get much writing done.  However, I did have a very productive weekend, writing a number of reviews and planning out my scheduled posts.  I just need to finish getting them typed up and scheduled over the next few weeks, but it did feel so good to finally get some writing done.  And, to add to the level of productivity, I even cleaned up my entire inbox this weekend!  I don't remember the last time that happened!

As for the reading front, I finished The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde and began reading Feed by Mira Grant.  I also need to read When the Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka for a work project.  I am not sure if I will get much more reading done than that, but we will see.  I would like to at least start one other book in addition to those two.  I haven't decided yet which book that may be though!  Maybe it will be the book that I am attending an author event for this week?!?  In fact, be sure to check back tomorrow for a special interview with this very author!  I am really excited for this one!

I hope you all have a great week!  Don't forget to share what is on your reading agenda this week or even tell your back-to-school stories!  

Blind Your Ponies by Stanley Gordon West

"He was also haunted by the Indian legend he first heard when he came to Montana.  Members of the Crow tribe were camped along the Yellowstone River near present-day Billings.  Warriors, returning from a long hunting trip, found the camp decimated by smallpox.  Their wives, mothers, children, were all dead.  So overcome with grief, sure they would join their loved ones in another world, they blinded their ponies and rode them off a sixty-foot cliff.

Five years after losing Amy, Sam still identified with those Crow warriors who couldn't bear life without their loved ones.  He would never admit to anyone that, on a daily basis, he entertained the thought of blinding his pony and riding off the cliff to be with her."  (p. 8)

Sam has escaped his previous life and now lives in Willow Creek, Montana.  He teaches English and coaches the local basketball team, in this small town that barely scrounges up enough players for a full team.  He goes through the motions, day by day, teaching and coaching.  The former he believes he excels at; the latter, is a different story with a losing record of 0-87!  This year is different though.  The world has handed Sam a few people that may just change that losing record, both on and off the court.

At first glance, this may seem like just another underdog sports story; however, there is so much more to West's novel.  He captures life in small Montana towns so brilliantly . . . the importance of high school teams to the entire community (particularly basketball), the sorrow of tragedy, and the hope that brings sunshine even into the darkest of days.

I personally grew up in one of these small Montana towns.  I played on those basketball courts. (In fact, my very own home town was briefly mentioned!)  I heard the roaring crowds.  I know the feeling of both victory and defeat brought to the team and the town.

I know that people stay in these towns for a wide variety of reasons, some for the short-term and others for their lifetime.  The gossip may keep the whole town in your business, but many still have secrets and pasts that are unspoken.

Blind Your Ponies brings you the love of the game, but it also brings you the love of a community like only small towns can bring you.  West brings you tragedy, but he also brings you hope.  This novel brings you an unforgettable masterpiece . . . one that reminds me of home, both the positives and the negatives, and that which contributed to who I am today . . . my values, my beliefs, my morals, my roots.

I find myself struggling to truly define the brilliance of this work.  Since I cannot quite seem to capture it like I want to, I will leave you with three things:  (1) Go read this book NOW (but be sure to have your box of tissues near). (2) This novel is yet another to make it into my favorites of the year.  Heck, it has made it into my favorites of all-time! AND (3) My favorite theme found throughout the book is "You may be outmanned in life, but it doesn't mean you have been outplayed."

I am left wondering . . . When one can so easily relate to a book, does it automatically become a favorite?  Do my strong feelings from this book come from my small town roots?

Sunday Synopsis: August 14, 2011

What a week!  Who knew that the week before the start of school would be so hectic and crazy?!?  I knew that we had a lot going on this past week, but I had no idea just how crazy it was going to be!  By the time Friday hit, I fell asleep in the chair before my own kids were in bed, one of them actually sitting on my lap!  Ha!  The really funny part was that it just so happened to also be my anniversary!  I guess you could say that eleven years of marriage is very exciting around here!!  One of these days, my husband and I will celebrate in style ... or at least go out for dinner and a movie kid-free!

This coming week is very exciting, but definitely a bit more calm!  My oldest will start first grade on Tuesday!!  I cannot believe how fast he has grown!!  We met his teacher this past week, and I am really curious to see what the first week of class will bring.  My first meeting brought mixed feelings, but to be fair, I was also very tired.  I guess I will wait to see!

On the reading front, I am still reading The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde and hope to finish it tonight or tomorrow.  This book has completely taken me by surprise, even despite all the praise that it has received.  It is very well written and the play on words are brilliant!  I am not familiar with some pieces mentioned in the book, such as the obvious Jane Eyre, but it really doesn't seem to matter too much.  As long as I can keep my eyes open, I will be reading the rest in one sitting!  After I finish it, I will then be moving on to Feed by Mira Grant for the Tales to Tomes Online Book Club.

As for the writing front, I really did not get as much done as I had hoped as you probably have noticed!  I only posted a couple of times, and both were simply links to pieces that I wrote for Walrus Publishing, my new freelance writing gig!  You won't see another one for a few weeks from me, so be sure you get your fill of it this week!  I am hoping I will have more time for writing in the week to come.  I really have some reviews I need to get posted.

Now that I have rambled long enough, I am going to leave you with some questions . . . What are you doing in preparation of going back to school, for yourself or for your children?  Any good book recommendations you would recommend for the event?  How about online resources or words of wisdom for starting a new year?

Walrus Report: Author Sighting of John Lutz

I am excited to announce that I have another article published over on the Walrus Publishing website!  Be sure to click on over and read my thoughts on attending a recent local author event with John Lutz, author of the recently released Serial.  You may discover just as I did that you are more familiar with his work than you realized!

Special Note:  For the lack of a better term to alert my readers of the posts where I link to my work on the Walrus Publishing website, I have decided to code them as Walrus Report.  

When you finish reading and commenting on my piece, come back and tell me if you were as surprised as I was by my familiarity with his work!

Exciting News & Review of In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson

I am so very excited to finally share my latest new change with each of you!!  I have been hinting at it since I announced the most recent changes to the site and the time has finally come to share it all with you!  If you have been reading my recent posts, I briefly mentioned last week in The Independent Bookstore Cruise Part I that I had lunch with a great group of book-ish people, one being the founder of a new local publishing company known as Walrus Publishing.  Since that day in May, we have been in contact a multitude of times and I can now officially share that I am one of the writers for the *NEW* Walrus Publishing website that launched on August 1st!  Cue the squeals!!!  (Begin Disclaimer -- This is in essence a freelance position in which I get paid per article.  I do not receive reimbursement of any other kind or for additional postings here on this site and do not receive any additional benefits unless otherwise noted.  As always, here at Tif Talks Books I write my own personal thoughts, opinions, views, etc. for the sake of all things literary and all for the sake of one of my passions. -- End Disclaimer)

Today is the day that my first article appears and I want to invite you all to click on over to read it.  I have recently read and reviewed In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson.  In a nutshell, I loved the book, but you want to read the full review to understand why!

As I publish more articles as a writer for Walrus Publishing, I will link up to them here as well for those who wish to follow along.  You can expect to see at least a few a month and the features will include book reviews, author sightings, and other possible literary topics.  I also encourage you to subscribe to the direct site and like Walrus Publishing on Facebook to keep up with the latest news.

Now it is your turn!  Please share your thoughts, comments, and questions that you may have about my new endeavor.

Sunday Synopsis: August 7, 2011

Happy Sunday Everyone!

I feel like I've had a very productive weekend, and technically I've got one more day left!  I have decided to take a day off this week to spend with my son to get all his school shopping done.  This last week, I did the same thing with my daughter.  It was such a rejuvenating day to be able to spend some one-on-one time with my little girl, though I must admit that I was also completely exhausted because that girl loves to shop!  (I am in so much trouble for the teen years!!)  My son, on the other hand, is all business when it comes to shopping ... get what is on the list and leave!  Therefore, we are making a whole day of it and hitting a movie while we are at it too!  I cannot wait!!

In case you missed any of the past posts from this week, let me give you a quick flashback of the ones featuring some local indies that I'm particularly fond of . . .

• The Independent Bookstore Cruise Part I
• The Independent Bookstore Cruise Part II
• Introducing Main Street Books!

And, what is coming this week?!?  I've got my exciting news that will be posting at some point in time tomorrow!  I need to wait until something else goes live before I share my post!!  Be watching for it!!  I've also got some more book reviews coming and hopefully, I will finally get my Harry Potter movie review written as well.

On the reading front, I finished In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson and am starting The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde this evening.  The latter I am reading with Kristen from We Be Reading, though I am a bit behind.  I am really excited to be introduced to Fforde's work.

Last, but not least, the winner of my Mary Pope Osborne giveaway did not contact me, so I have drawn a new winner.  Congratulations go to Sherri of Books and the Scientist!  I will be sending you an email requesting your mailing address by Wednesday, August 10th.  Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Happy reading this week!!

Introducing Main Street Books!

As part of my newly revived Literary Locals feature, I will be bringing you a variety of interviews from some of my local literary loves.  You may see bookstores and authors featured, along with a few other surprises that I may have up my sleeve.  This is the kick-off of the first of my interviews and I am so excited to share this one with you because it is the owner of one of my favorite local independent bookstores!  I really could go on and on; however, when you read on, you will come to realize for yourself why this is the first of this series!  Please note that I interviewed her a couple of weeks ago and some books discussed have now been released.

Allow me to introduce you to Vicki Erwin, author and owner of Main Street Books in St. Charles, MO!

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Tell us a little bit about yourself and your indie gem, Main Street Books.

One of the charms of Main Street Books is its location – in the heart of an historic district that carefully maintains the flavor of an 19th century village with brick and cobblestone streets and lovingly maintained buildings. The district works very hard to keep this feeling alive. Our store is located in a building from the 1820s, originally occupied by Missouri’s first secretary of state. The store is 18 years old and I’ve owned it for five of those years. We stress books on local history (natch!) and because my background is in children’s book we have a strong section in this area. I’ve worked in the “book biz” in one capacity or another for over 20 years – at bookstore level, wholesaler and publisher. For most of that time it was my dream to own a store. I’m so thrilled to say that dream actually came true for me.

Not only do you surround yourself with books every day, but you have also written one! Share about your book and your inspiration for it.

Up until ST CHARLES THEN AND NOW and MEXICO, my two latest books, all my published books were for kids (21 of ‘em, unfortunately out of print, but Google them and you’ll see). The ST CHARLES book came right out of working at the store. People often asked if there was a book with pictures of the buildings that told the stories of the buildings, what they used to be, who’d lived there and so on. No one else would put one together so I did. It’s been a great seller. The MEXICO (Missouri) book is about my home town and it grew out of wanting to know more about where I grew up. It was amazing how much I didn’t know about the history of Mexico. The books I wrote for children were middle grade, mostly mysteries and ranged from single titles to series including THE BABYSITTERS CLUB and SCOOBY DOO.

Running an independent bookstore has both benefits and challenges. Will you share your experiences with both the highs and the struggles?

The best part of being an independent bookseller is matching a reader with a book he/she loves and for me, that feeling is only magnified when it’s a young reader. There is also the feeling of community and of helping to build an audience for particularly good books that I love.

When I first started as a bookseller, the threat was the mall stores like B Dalton and Walden. Well, that’s over and they are gone. Then it changed to the chains – in fact my first bookselling job ended because a Borders built a store IN THE SAME BLOCK where we were located. And look what happened to Borders. Big box and every other store in town adding books to their mix presents challenges and then there’s Amazon – all discounting prices. Now we have e-readers to contend with as well. We try to meet the challenge by offering good service and knowledge of the books. Our website has e-commerce capabilities and customers can download ebooks from Google via our website. If our store is used only as a showroom to look at the physical book to see if a customer wants to order it online, we won’t be able to stay in business. We have a new sign in place at the shop – BROWSE HERE, FIND IT HERE, BUY IT HERE, KEEP US HERE.

Your store features a comfortable atmosphere in the heart of St. Charles, MO, particularly with an adorable children's section. What are a few of your children's best sellers?

Our bestselling children’s book is THE MONSTER AT THE END OF THE BOOK (featuring lovable, furry old Grover). First, it’s an adorable book and grandparents see it, remember reading it to their child and HAVE to buy it for their grandchild or a new parent sees it, remembers it as their favorite book and buys it to share with their child. It’s so fun to watch new parents rediscover their favorite books. The classics are still strong sellers which, of course, is what makes them classic – GOOD NIGHT MOON, CAPS FOR SALE, GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU, CLASSIC MOTHER GOOSE, HARRY THE DIRTY DOG – you get the picture. These are often gift books. The WALTER THE FARTING DOG series is popular for young boy readers and for adults giving gifts to other adults. Girls love the PINKALICIOUS series and FANCY NANCY. Everybody loves SKIPPY JON JONES (new title just out!). PRESS HERE, an interactive book, is getting lots of action these days. For older readers, the Percy Jackson books and the spinoffs of those still sell, Diary of a Wimpy kid, local author Heather Brewer’s Chronicles of Vladimir Todd series all sell well. And for YAs, DARK DIVINE, DELIRIUM, Cassandra Clare’s Immortal Instruments, Maggie Steifvater’s werewolf trilogy, Pretty Little Liars and books by John Green and David Levithan have strong followings.

What books do you find yourself recommending the most to your customers?

As I’ve mentioned, we sell a lot of local books about both St Charles and St Louis. (I also do a lot of restaurant recommendations!) GHOSTS OF ST CHARLES is a huge seller for us because any town that’s been around as long as St Charles has is bound to have a few ghosts wandering the street. People are buying Civil War books because of the Sesquicentennial, so I’ve had to brush up on those titles. I love mysteries, both of the cozy variety and harder edged suspense books, so it’s easy for me to go on and on about them. Truly though, customers want to know what fiction and new releases you’ve read and what you recommend. Since it is so dependent on what that customer likes and reads, I always ask what was the last book they read and liked to get an idea of where to start.

What upcoming release are you looking forward to reading the most?

Because we receive many advanced reading copies of upcoming titles and because I have no self-control when it comes to books I’m anxious to read, I’ve read a lot of the fall “big” titles that I was interested in. I loved NIGHT CIRCUS, a debut novel that almost defies description. Saying it’s a battle between two talented magicians doesn’t begin to encompass the appeal and story of this book. It was original and completely absorbing, taking me to another world entirely. I’m reading WHEN SHE WOKE right now and it’s very reminiscent of THE HANDMAID’S TALE by Margaret Atwood but I can’t wait to go back to it and see what happens to Hannah, the main character. John Hart is a favorite author and he has a new, wonderfully meaty suspense book out this week, IRON HOUSE.

You are one of the members of the St. Louis Independent Bookstore Alliance and were one of the indies featured on the first-ever Independent Bookstore Cruise. How do you feel this has affected your business or the indie bookstores in general since its establishment?

The Alliance has brought attention to all the independent bookstores in the region. The cruise brought a number of new people in the door and I’ve already seen some of them again. Other customers have come in because they read about the store in one or another of the stories about the Alliance. It has also increased visibility of St Louis stores in publisher eyes. Almost every single rep I’ve talked to has asked about the Alliance and expressed excitement about it.

What is your dream literary destination (real or imaginary)?

I’m torn between Hogwarts and Louisa May Alcott’s home.

What is your all-time favorite book (or top 5 if you would prefer)?

This is one of the hardest questions for me to answer. And none of my answers are particularly literary. I love LITTLE WOMEN and even now when I reread it, I think maybe this time it will turn out the way I want it to. There’s an historical novel about Katherine Swinford by Anya Seton called KATHERINE and it was the book that turned me on to reading historical fiction. In the kids area, my favorite picture books are CAPS FOR SALE and MIKE MULLIGAN AND HIS STEAM SHOVEL. I still adore the BOXCAR CHILDREN, NANCY DREW, TRIXIE BELDEN and the BABYSITTERS CLUB. I do love HUGO CABRET as well. For YA, THE KILLER’S COUSIN by Nancy Werlin is one of my all time faves. Of course I love HARRY POTTER. Elizabeth George writes the best mysteries but I wait anxiously for each addition to Diane Mott Davidson’s Goldie Bear series, Julia Spencer Fleming’s Claire and Russ series (stellar writing in this one), each new book by John Hart, Tana French and Kate Atkinson. In the fiction realm, CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT by Mark Haddon is a favorite title. Favorite authors include Sarah Addison Allen and Kate Morton.

For those interested in visiting Main Street Books, both in person or online, where can they connect with you?

Our new e-commerce site is now live – http://www.mainstreetbooks.net/.  And we’d love to meet everyone in person at 307 S Main Street in St Charles. You can also give a call at 636-949-0105 or email us at msbstchas@sbcglobal.net. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @mainstreetbooks (I’m not that great at tweeting regularly but I do sometimes if I think it’s worthwhile).

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A HUGE thank you to Vicki!  This was so much fun!  Now it is your turn . . . share your comments with her and don't forget to click on over to check out more about Main Street Books!

The Independent Bookstore Cruise Part II

Yesterday, I shared with you The Independent Bookstore Cruise Part I, outlining the morning of book-ish awesomeness.  Today in Part II, I return with details of the cruise afternoon!

After having the wonderful literary luncheon, the crew loaded back up in the bus to leave the Central West End and head to University City for the next indie bookstore on the tour, Subterranean Books.   We were greeted once again by friendly faces and had the opportunity to visit with even more local authors.  Unfortunately, this is the one shop that I missed out on!  I don't even remember what the heck I was doing . . . probably browsing the books . . . but I never had the opportunity to meet these authors and this is the one store that I left empty-handed.  (Correction:  I again left with some SWAG, but did not purchase any books to add to my collection.)  I later found out that a number of the participants actually walked down the street to a comic book store.  Considering that I did not get to fully experience this indie and I missed out on some comics, I am debating a visit to this neighborhood again in the near future.

Angie Fox, Eileen Dreyer, Susan McBride
signing books at Main Street Books.

Last, but definitely not least, we then hit the bus again for a trip to the city of St. Charles.  Found on brick streets in the heart of downtown and only blocks from the river, we pulled up to our last visit of the day, Main Street Books.  Weeks before, I had met the owner of this adorable shop, but I had no idea that when I would walk through the door of her shop that she would recognize me!  It was such a pleasure to have a personal greeting from one brief meeting, and I immediately felt at home as soon as I walked through the door.  This little indie won my heart with its adorable children's section and the homey feel, complete with a staircase to another floor of books.  As I took a few moments to just walk down the streets, I knew that my family would fall in love with this little city and I knew that I would return.  I can even visualize my kids and their excitement as they see the area suited so perfectly for them!  I also could not leave out the opportunity to meet three additional local authors, Angie Fox, Susan McBride, and Eileen Dreyer.  I again walked away with a handful of signed books, and an adorable bookmark featuring the indie itself!

I could not believe the day was already over!  The time flew by and before I knew it, I was back on the bus chatting away with those sitting next me about the day, about authors we love, about books we love, and so much more.  I walked away feeling like a pirate who just walked away with a chest full of gold dubloons!  My arms were filled with books and more books, both complimentary and those that I purchased on my own.  And, most importantly, I walked away knowing that I had so many amazing indies within reach, to discover more new-to-me authors, help re-acquaint me with some old favorites, and simply provide me with a place to go where I can get lost so easily within the pages surrounding me.

The St. Louis Independent Bookstore Alliance is planning another cruise for sometime this fall.  This time I will not hesitate in getting my ticket!  There is no way that I would miss out on another day if it is anything like this one!  Afterall, how could I pass up treasures like these . . .

The FREE SWAG from throughout day!  

My "used" treasures that I couldn't live without from Left Bank Books.

All my signed books from the day!

During the afternoon, you can tell that I did not do so well in taking pictures.  I was simply too involved in having some book-ish fun.  If you like the St. Louis Independent Bookstore Alliance on Facebook, however, you can find more pictures in an album completely devoted to the cruise.  You may even catch me in a few of the shots!

The Independent Bookstore Cruise Part I

At the beginning of May, I had the opportunity to attend an amazing book-ish event . . . The first ever Independent Bookstore Cruise hosted by the St. Louis Independent Bookstore Alliance!  I am talking about a day of absolute local literary love, from local independent bookstores to local authors from just about every single genre.  Before I get into the details of the awesome day, let me first begin with a bit of history behind the Alliance . . .

The St. Louis Independent Bookstore Alliance formed earlier this year as a way to work together and help survive.  With many indies on the verge of closing and many just staying above water, this small group of indie booksellers decided to capitalize on each other's strengths instead of seeing each other as competitors.  They began meeting on a regular basis and the Alliance was born.  I originally discovered the Alliance through an article in the Riverfront Times (click here for an abbreviated version of the original), one that immediately caught my attention by using a similar logo as the HBO version of A Band of Brothers, with the substitute title of A Band of Bookstores.  The group decided to help the locals discover a few of the indies available and the Independent Bookstore Cruise was born.

Amy Sklansky signs
You Are My Little Cupcake
for me at Pudd'nhead  Books.

I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of this, but alas, I had to wait for payday to get my ticket.  The night I finally had the chance to purchase my ticket, I logged on to Facebook to discover that a mere six minutes before all tickets had sold out.  I was sooooo disappointed!  I immediately emailed the contact name listed and let him know that I would take a ticket if a seat opened up.  I had pretty much given up all hope of ever attending this event, when a few weeks later, I was emailed that one seat was now available.  Did I want it?  Of course!  How could I pass this opportunity up, especially since it would be used as my Mother's Day gift?!?

Ridley Pearson signs a copy of
Kingdom Keepers for me at
Pudd'nhead Books.

The morning of the event, I woke up very excited!  I was participating in the first ever cruise, getting the opportunity to finally discover some of the hidden treasures in an area that I still was not completely familiar with, and on top of all that, I was going to be surrounded by people ALL DAY LONG that had a passion for books and indies just like me!  I could barely contain myself!

The cruise began with everyone meeting at the first indie, Pudd'nhead Books located in Webster Groves ... a quaint little shop with friendly staff filled with books to the brim. We were all greeted with a tote filled with a couple of ARCs, and many of us browsed finding a stack of books in addition to the freebies!  Before long, a great cast of authors appeared to chat informally with the participants, signing their books at our requests.  These authors included Ridley Pearson, Amy Sklansky, and Curtis Sittenfeld.  I was so excited to finish having Pearson sign my now complete copy of Kingdom Keepers and I could not pass up Sklansky's You Are My Little Cupcake for my daughter's upcoming birthday!  I was even lucky to get a shot of all three smiling!

Amy Sklansky, Curtis Sittenfeld, & Ridley Pearson
at Pudd'nhead Books

From there, we all eagerly hopped on the bus to travel to our next destination, Left Bank Books in the Central West End.  It was here that I discovered yet another great treasure and I knew that I would be returning in the near future!  We were all given a special gift, allowed to peruse and once again visit with book-ish folk at our pleasure.  I personally got lost in the used book section downstairs and knew I had to pace myself after finding another stack of books that I must have!  Left Bank decided to step the cruise up a notch, inviting us all next door to eat at Duff's.  I'm not just talking about a quick little lunch before hitting the bus once again.  I'm talking a nice sit down meal where we all had the pleasure of having at least one literary love sitting at our tables.  Some people sat with local authors.  I had the pleasure of sitting with a great crowd of people, including the founder of Walrus Publishing, a new local publishing company.  Each of the guests took a few moments to share some thoughts, from his/her staying power as an author to how s/he got started in the business to even just a few witty remarks.  I was laughing and I was full! (Sadly, my pictures did not turn out from this part of the event.)

Throughout the morning, I was able to relax, talk books surrounded by complete strangers . . . BUT, I felt so comfortable and at home!  Who knew what the afternoon was going to bring?!?  I will give you a hint . . . two more stops and more great literary love!  However, I am going to tease you by ending this post here!  I will be back tomorrow with how the rest of the day went, complete with pictures of my book stash from the day!  And, I promise it does not end there!  I even have an interview with my favorite indie of the bunch coming up later this week too!

Giveaway Winner: Mary Pope Osborne!

Congratulations to Wendy 

for winning the Mary Pope Osborne giveaway, including Dinosaurs Before Dark and The Knight at Dawn, complete with stamped signatures!!!

The winner has been contacted and will have until Wednesday, August 3rd at 5:00 pm CST to reply with her mailing address.  

All winners for giveaways here at Tif Talks Books are chosen using random.org.

2011 Fairy Tale Challenge: August Selections

It is that time to post the next monthly installment of selections for the 2011 Fairy Tale Challenge.  I am going to keep it simple this month and just invite you to visit the previous challenge link-up posts, not only to check out past selections but also to read some of the great guest posts that have been featured!

January:  The Kick-Off

February:  Checking out some upcoming fairy tale films.

March:  A picturesque guest post from Reconstructing Grimm.

April:  General Check-In

May & June:  Checking out some fairy tale television coming our way this fall.

July:  The Literary Lollipop shares her escape into fairy tales.

So, which check-in has been your favorite so far?  Are you interested in sharing your own fairy tale thoughts?