Mysteries are one of the most popular literary genres. Maybe that’s because, as writer David Baldacci says, “Crime novels put the balance back in life…evil is punished, and the good guys win, after solving the puzzle.” Here are some of our staff’s favorite mystery authors:

Arthur Conan Doyle

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson were created in 1887, and after more than a hundred years, still engage readers. And reading Sherlock Holmes is easy – many books are short novellas gathered together (many stories were originally published in newspapers) and can be read in one sitting. If you have only seen the movies (either the old Basil Rathbone or newer Robert Downey, Jr.) you are in for a treat – Holmes was the original forensic detective!

The Hound of the Baskervilles is one of Conan Doyle’s most famous books. Holmes and Watson investigate a case inspired by the local legend of a fierce and mysterious hound. A true classic.   Linda G., Circulation Available on Libby

Also available on Libby are collections of Sherlock Holmes’ mysteries that you can dip your toe into, such as The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (the first twelve short stories) or stand-alone stories such as The Sign of the Four and A Study in Scarlet.

Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie wrote 74 mysteries in her career – and her characters were so engaging, they’ve created a cottage industry in film and television! The books are also short and easy to read, and the mysteries are confounding. It’s a good idea to read several and figure out your favorite detective – Miss Marple or Hercule Poirot (there are also stand-alone novels and another detective pair named Tommy and Tuppence).

My favorite Agatha Christie sleuth is Miss Marple – and to my mind she’s at her best in The 4:50 to Paddington (available on Libby). Two trains run side by side – and in that moment Elspeth McGillicuddy sees a murder committed in the other train. Who, other than Jane Marple, would take her story seriously? There are no witnesses, no suspects, and no corpse. Stephanie C., Circulation

If you’re interested in viewing some great Agatha Christie mysteries, Acorn TV on RB Digital is the place to look – from The Agatha Christie Hour, Marple, and The Best of Agatha Christie.

Dan Brown

Brown’s The Da Vinci Code was a huge hit when it was published in 2003 and his professor/detective Robert Langdon (played by Tom Hanks) went on to screen fame. If you haven’t read the books, they are all page-turners! The rest of the Robert Langdon novels are Angels and Demons, The Lost Symbol, Inferno and Origin. Larry L., Reference   All available on Libby

Stephen King

Stephen King is an American voice in the thriller/crime genre. Starting with Carrie in 1973, he has written at least 97 books and is still going strong. If you think King is just the king of horror, think again – he’s a fantastic writer and storyteller, which may be the reason so many of his stories have been adapted as movies. Some favorites are the Mr. Mercedes trilogy, where retired policeman Bill Hodges solves the mystery of who plowed a stolen Mercedes through a crowd, The Shawshank Redemption, and The Green Mile. Stephanie C., Circulation All available on Libby

Two books that have stayed with me my entire life are Misery and The Dead Zone. While the former is a psychological horror thriller that could make one fearful of the “kindness” of strangers, the latter, a supernatural horror thriller, still resonates because of the reality of underlying, inexplicable cruelty of certain human beings. King’s prose and perception into and about the human condition will haunt you for years to come. Victoria C., Reference   Available on Libby

Louise Penny

Penny is a Canadian author who writes mystery novels set in Quebec and centered on the work of Chief Inspector Armand Gamache. Most are set in the fictional town of Three Pines (another town where a lot of murders happen!). These novels are fun to read in sequence, since they have continuing characters and story lines. The first two in the series, Still Life and A Fatal Grace are available on Libby. Stephanie C., Circulation

Favorite Series – by Kristin G., Circulation

Stephanie Blackmoore writes the Wedding Planner mystery series. It features Mallory Shepherd, a wedding planner in the small town of Port Quincy, Pennsylvania. The first in the series, Engaged in Death, is available on Hoopla both in audiobook and ebook format. 

Ellen Byron writes the Cajun Country series. Maggie Crozat is the manager of her family’s plantation-turned-bed and breakfast in Louisiana. The debut novel in this series, Plantation Shudders, is available in Hoopla in both audio and ebook format.

If you are looking for tips on how to fix an old home, try the Home Repair is Homicide series by Sarah Graves. Jacobia “Jake” Tiptree is a former financial advisor who escapes New York City for Eastport, Maine, where she purchases and repairs a centuries old house…while solving a mystery, of course! The first novel, Dead Cat Bounce, is available on Libby.

This week, we want to talk about what we’re reading and watching now, as well as new releases to put on hold for the future.

First, here are the latest reviews – good and bad – from our staff. This is what we’re reading and watching right now:

My husband and I just burned through The Handmaid’s Tale on Hulu. It was tough to watch at times, but gripping and a grim warning of how quickly things can change when extremism takes hold. Both he original Margaret Atwood novel and sequel, The Testaments are Available on Libby -Mary H., Children’s  

I recently watched the documentary Who is Arthur Chu?, which is available on Kanopy. Arthur Chu is an eleven-time Jeopardy champion and one of the most hated players of the game. A very relevant documentary considering all the turmoil we as a nation are experiencing because of racism. –Elaine N., Circulation

My most recent read has been The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck. This classic depicts life in a Chinese village in the early part of the 20^th century. A moving tale of the hardships of poverty and survival. Beautifully written. Available on Libby –Linda G., Circulation  

I was lucky to get the newest Michael Connelly thriller, Fair Warning. As usual, it was a good, fast read that kept me interested. However, it is not a Harry Bosch novel, so it was a bit disappointing. Still, it’s highly recommended if you’re a fan. Available on Libby -Stephanie C., Circulation

I love watching Rosemary and Thyme on Amazon Prime. It takes me away from the present dilemmas and I get to visit beautiful gardens with my favorite sleuths. Alice P., Children’s

Recently, I’ve been watching Good Witch on Netflix. It’s small-town sweet, light, corny and romantic, with just a hint of magical powers. The perfect antidote after digesting the daily news on TV! –Nancy M., Circulation

I’ve been watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Amazon Prime. It is the funniest show I have seen. Marvelous – highly recommend! –Larry L., Reference

And finally, some new books to put on hold:

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett – Identical twin sisters are born into a small Southern community in the 1960’s. They decide to run away from home and carve out new lives in New Orleans. But as they turn down separate paths, one returns home and one conjures a life of secrecy as a black woman passing for white. A tale of family, identity, race, history, and perception. Cheryl K., Reference  Available on Libby

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins – The prequel to The Hunger Games series. Larry L. and Sharon R., Reference   Available on Libby

Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan – The latest from the Crazy Rich Asians author, based on A Room with a View. Sharon R., Reference   Available on Libby

Home Before Dark by Riley Sager – After a twenty year absence, a woman returns to her childhood home which was believed to be haunted. Was it really haunted, as her father had claimed? Kristin G., Circulation   Available on Libby

The End of Everything: (Astrophysically Speaking) by Katie Mack – An eye opening look at five ways the universe could end, and the mind-blowing lessons each scenario reveals about the most important concepts in cosmology. Larry L., Reference Coming Soon!

The Bell in the Lake by Lars Mytting – From Norway, this is the first book in a planned trilogy. Set in 1880 on a barren Norwegian peninsula, it weaves local legends with stories on a community on the brink of modernization. Liz R., Reference   Coming Soon!

One by One by Ruth Ware – A beautiful chalet in the Alps is hosting a company retreat. An avalanche covers the resort, leaving everyone stranded. What could go wrong? Kristin G., Circulation   Coming Soon!

Farm Girl by Beuna Coburn Carlson – Memoir of growing up on a farm in Wisconsin during the 1930’s. Reviews say it’s an updated Little House in the Big Woods. That alone makes me want to read it! Stephanie C., Circulation Coming Soon!

Here Comes the Body – by Maria DeRico – Mia Carina returns to her old Queens, NY neighborhood as an event planner for her Mafioso father’s catering business. This is the first book in the catering hall mystery series. Kristin G., Circulation   Coming Soon!

For some of us, the bright side of being quarantined has meant spending more time with our pets. We all know pets offer and accept unconditional love; certainly in these last weeks we have all needed some of that! There are also many great books and movies that feature animals … here are some of MPL’s staff favorites:

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein – The relationship between a race car driver and his dog, Enzo, through the years.   Recently made into a movie, which is available on Hulu, the story is both touching and uplifting. Amanda G., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby and Hoopla

Watchers by Dean Koontz – While hiking, a man comes across a bedraggled golden retriever who stops him from going deeper into the woods. This is the book that put Dean Koontz on the map – it’s a thriller, touching and a page-turning read. Try it! Stephanie C., Circulation  Available on Libby 

Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron – True story about an abandoned kitten who transforms the environment of a library in Iowa into a warm place where people find the love of this cat is true therapy. If you love animals and the amazing way they can add so much to life, you’ll love this! Nancy M., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

A Pedigree to Die For by Laurien Berenson – The first book of a mystery series featuring a single mother who gets involved with the dog show circuit. If you like watching the Westminster Dog Show, this might be the series for you! Kristin G., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

A Dog’s Purpose by Bruce Cameron – This is the first book in a series about the many reincarnations of the dog “Bailey”. Written from the dog’s point of view and the search for his purpose in life. Interesting to imagine the thoughts and perspective of our pets! This heartwarming book has also been made into a movie (which is available on Amazon), and sequels include A Dog’s Journey, A Dog’s Promise and Bailey’s Story. Linda G., Circulation  All available on Libby 

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell – A horse in nineteenth-century England recounts his experiences with both good and bad masters. With fifty million copies sold, Black Beauty is one of the best-selling books of all time. A great read for young and old! Larry L., Reference  Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby and Hoopla

Many movies have also been made of Black Beauty. The classic 1944 Hollywood version stars Elizabeth Taylor (when she was a young teenager) and Mickey Rooney, but there are many others, including a 1994 remake starring Alan Cumming as Black Beauty. That one is available on Netflix. 

Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand – A universal underdog story, Seabiscuit was one of the most popular attractions in horse racing history. Extremely readable, it offers a fascinating window into the racing life. A movie based on the book was made in 2003 and won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography (available on Amazon). Stephanie C., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

Call of the Wild by Jack London –Buck is stolen from his home in California and shipped north to the Yukon, and there his adventures begin. If you last read this book in high school, please read it again – it is truly an American classic. There is a famous 1935 film adaptation, starring Clark Gable and Loretta Young, as well as the new 2020 release starring Harrison Ford (currently available On Demand). However, this book is definitely better than the movie! Stephanie C., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service by Beth Kendrick – A woman with a gift can help someone find his/her soulmate … specifically a canine soulmate! Kristin G., Circulation Available as an audiobook on Hoopla

WAG: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy by Zazie Todd – Everything from doing research about what breed is right for you and your family to how to train a puppy, visiting the vet, adjusting to life with a dog and much more. Not only will this help you raise your new family member, it will help you better understand them! Christine K., Circulation Available on Libby

And lastly …

Things to Do During the Pandemic With Your Dogs (Christine K., Circulation)

Spend time walking them – it gets you out of the house and they will enjoy the walk.

Take them to the local dog park.

Teach them new tricks.

Watch YouTube/Instagram videos about teaching dog tricks.

Join BarkBox, a dog subscription service that will send your dog a box of toys and treats!

Most of all – enjoy the time you have with your pet. Soon we’ll be back to work and we’ll miss those daytime snuggles!

Tolstoy says “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” While we await the “new normal”, may we all enjoy and appreciate our families. Here are some of our favorite family sagas to get lost in this week:

Books and Movies: 

The Seven or Eight Deaths of Stella Fortuna by Juliet Grames – Historical novel about an Italian family who immigrate to America. It is a tale of family, magic and new beginnings. I couldn’t put it down. Stephanie C., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

The Romanov Sisters by Helen Rappaport – True story about the lives of the four Romanov sisters. The story captures their joys and their tragic end with great historical detail. A fascinating story. Linda G., Circulation   Available on Libby

Roots by Alex Haley – First published in 1976, Roots is the story of Kunta Kinte, an 18^th-Century African who as an adolescent was sold into slavery and transported to North America. The book follows his life and the lives of his descendents in the United States all the way to Alex Haley himself. Larry L., Reference
Available on Libby and Hoopla

The Godfather by Mario Puzo – If you’ve only seen the movie, you are missing out on a great page-turner of a book. The novel introduces us to the Corleone family and their immigration to America. Kristin G., Circulation Available on Libby

Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker – This is a compelling, at times heartbreaking, story of the Galvins family who had 12 children, 10 of them boys. As the boys grew older, some began to exhibit disturbing or violent behavior. Over time 6 of the 10 were diagnosed with schizophrenia. This book explores the impact of mental illness on the entire family, as well as changes in the treatment of schizophrenia over times. Cheryl K., Reference   Available on Libby

Educated by Tara Westover – Award-winning memoir of a young girl growing up in an isolated, survivalist family. Her quest for a new kind of life transformed her. This is a real page-turner, and all true. Stephanie C., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby 

The Roosevelts – A Ken Burns documentary focusing on the lives of the most prominent Roosevelts – Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor. An engrossing saga of the amazing strengths and weaknesses of these three giants of history. Linda G., Circulation Available on Kanopy

Big Night – A restaurant run by brothers sadly sits empty and is in danger of closing, until a celebrity night promises to turn their business around. You will walk away hungry! Cheryl K., Reference Available on Kanopy

For Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month: 

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee – A sprawling family drama set in Korea and Japan during the 1900’s. There is love, sorrow, sacrifice, war and racism – all in this epic historical novel during another culture and time. I was drawn into the characters and invested in their fate. Nancy M., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby 

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan – The relationship between four Chinese mothers and their daughters. Amy Tan’s debut novel was made into a hit movie (available on Amazon) and generated other great family sagas – The Kitchen God’s Wife, The Bonesetter’s Daughter and The Valley of Amazement. Kristin G., Circulation
All Available on Libby

The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See – A fictional account of the woman of Jeju Island, who dive to great depths and in freezing water to harvest abalone from the sea floor. The society is matriarchal, with the women working and the men caring for the house and children. Diane M., Circulation   Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

The British Royal Family: The ultimate experience of schadenfreude. They’re just like us…aren’t they?

The Crown (Netflix and on DVD) – this drama chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II, from childhood through old age. Season 1 is about her marriage to Prince Philip and her relationship with her sister, Margaret, as well as her respect for Winston Churchill. Season 2 focuses on the Suez crisis, the birth of her children and President Kennedy’s visit to Buckingham Palace. Season 3 starts with a new Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, and follows Prince Charles’ investiture as Prince of Wales. There is mystery, lies, scandals, and everything else the British Royal family can promise!   Christine K., Circulation

The Crown Companion, Volume 1 – After watching The Crown, you will wonder – did this really happen? This book tells the true story of Elizabeth’s life. If you’re a fan of The Crown, you will love it. Stephanie C., Circulation   Available on Libby

The Majestic Life of Queen Elizabeth – frames life in pre- and post-WWII Britain against the Royal family’s trials and tribulations. Told through photographs, video clips and interviews – not to be missed! Victoria C., Reference Available on Hoopla 

The Queen (Hulu and Amazon) – If you are a royal-watcher, you will love this continuation of their story. With Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II, this movie focuses on the Queen’s reaction to the death of Princess Diana. The movie shows Elizabeth as a real person with real emotions. Stephanie C., Circulation 

Various Netflix Documentaries – For those of us obsessed with the British Royal Family, Netflix has fantastic documentaries – from The Royal House of Windsor to Diana in Her Own Words. Enjoy browsing and getting these glimpses of the Royals, who are just like us, only different! Christine K., and Stephanie C., Circulation

This month marks the 75^th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.   Wow – 75 years! So many great books, movies and documentaries about the “Greatest Generation” and the war that changed the world. Here are some of our favorites:

Books:

Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand – The true story of the life and experiences of airman Louis Zamparini during World War II. His courageous story of survival and endurance is inspirational, gripping and a must-read! Nancy M., Circulation
Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak – Set in Nazi Germany, a little girl develops a love for reading through the devastation around her. A beautiful story, heartrending and poetic. Linda G., Circulation
Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby 

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah – The story of two sisters, each embarking on her own dangerous path toward survival and freedom in German-occupied France. The novel celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the durability of women. Stephanie C., Circulation
Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir by Jennifer Ryan – A novel about the home front, set in a small English village, which shows how women carried on while the men were away. Kristin G., Circulation
Available on Libby

Midnight in Broad Daylight by Pamela Rotner Sakamoto – This non-fiction story concerns a Japanese-American family of 3 boys and a daughter divided by culture and war, on both sides of the Pacific. Two sons, living in Japan at the outset of World War II serve the emperor while their older brother pledges his loyalty to America. Jazmin M., Reference
Available as an audiobook on Hoopla

Killing the Rising Sun by Bill O’Reilly – A history of the Pacific theatre of World War II. Even if you think you know your history, you will find something new here. O’Reilly’s other WWII books are also excellent – Killing Patton and Killing the SS. Stephanie C., Circulation
All available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

Mr. Churchill’s Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal – The first book in the Maggie Hope series follows our heroine through a web of spies, murder and intrigue. There are seven books in the series, all set during World War II. Kristin G., Circulation
Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby

Shanghai Girls by Lisa See – The story of two sisters who leave Shanghai when Japanese bombs fall and immigrate to Los Angeles. Their relationship and their journey make for a gripping novel. Stephanie C., Circulation
Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby 

Movies: 

The King’s Choice – Set in April, 1940 and based on a true story. The King of Norway has to decide whether to surrender or fight the Germans. Dramatically told story about an important event during World War II. Enjoyed it a lot! Larry L., Reference
Available on Kanopy

How Winston Churchill Changed the World – In 24 episodes, this Great Courses lecture traces Churchill’s early life and development from an uninspired student to a polymath who became an author, painter, military officer and skilled politician. His remarkable life and leadership skills have left an indelible mark on history that continues to influence generations to this day. Victoria C., Reference
Available on Kanopy 

Foyle’s War – A terrific British detective series set during WWII starring Michael Kitchen as the methodical and conscientious investigator. Interesting plots and great attention to detail.   Linda G., Circulation
Available on Hoopla and Acorn TV, part of RB Digital

Land Girls – British drama about the women’s “Land Army” that kept the country running while the men were away fighting World War II. Another wonderful period drama from the BBC. Stephanie C., Circulation
Available on Acorn TV, part of RB Digital

Our staff, like you, is still at home. The weather is dreary; when it’s sunny it’s cold, and when it’s raining it’s just horrible. These are good days for sitting and relaxing with a good book or movie. Here’s what we’re recommending:

RB Digital

We all know about the great magazines available on RB Digital – from National Geographic to Kiplinger’s to OK!
Now, MPL has added more choices to RB Digital. One great choice is Acorn TV. If you are a fan of British television, you will love browsing through this collection. Some of my favorites are A Place to Call Home, Midsomer Murders and Doc Martin. There are fun, original shows such as Vintage Roads (where two gents take classic cars on rides through the British countryside) and Finding Joy (a quirky, Irish comedy). Click here to explore RB Digital Stephanie C., Circulation

Reading with Libby

The Accident by Linwood Barclay – A man investigates whether his wife really was responsible for a car crash that killed her and two other people. This will keep you guessing who is the guilty party (or parties).

The Red Hunter by Lisa Unger – When someone wrongs you, what choice do you make? Revenge, or perhaps healing? This is the crux of this suspenseful, page-turning novel. Kristin G., Circulation

Camino Winds by John Grisham – Sequel to Grisham’s best-selling Camino Island, this time set during a hurricane in Florida. Fans of Grisham will love this one. Stephanie C., Circulation

Another great feature in Libby is the Available Now tab. Some previous bestsellers that might be available now are:
Educated by Tara Westover
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Open Book by Jessica Simpson
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

Watching with Hoopla

Mrs. Brown – Queen Victoria grieves the death of her husband, Prince Albert. She finds comfort to carry on through a trusted servant, Mr. John Brown. This movie is a love story of sorts, beautifully acted and well written.

Dior and I – A documentary on the fashion house of Christian Dior. This is a behind-the-scenes look at Raf Simon’s debut as the new artistic director. It was so inspiring to see all the creativity and passion in the entire dedicated team. Linda G., Circulation

Music from The Greatest Showman – A musical about the life of P.T. Barnum and his star performers. The music is truly inspiring and uplifting. Elaine N., Circulation

Streaming and Network TV

Outer Banks (Netflix) – The Outer Banks of North Carolina are known for being “the graveyard of the Atlantic” because of all the shipwrecks over the years. This show centers on the search for $400 million in gold bars lost on one of those ships. A dangerous hunt for storied lost treasure that had me binge watching! Nancy M., Circulation

Top Chef (Bravo) – I’ve been making an effort to use all my wedding gifts and cook more now that we are at home. There are so many fun contests in this show, exciting guest judges and new foods to learn about! Christine K., Circulation

Log Cabin Living (HGTV) – Families leave their hectic lives behind and settle into the country in a log cabin. Relaxing. Garry S., Maintenance

The Simpsons (FXX or Disney+) – One of my favorite shows of all time! There are so many sight gags, hilarious lines, and intelligent humor mixed in with the slapstick. I love watching whenever I can. Mary H., Children’s

Restaurants on the Edge (Netflix) – A kinder, gentler restaurant make-over show from Canada. Restaurants that are in beautiful settings are somehow failing…why? Part travelogue, part spiritual journey, this show is a soothing antidote to any troubles you may have. Stephanie C., Circulation

We all have them: books, authors and movies that we come back to time and again. No matter how many times you’ve read or seen it, you always find something new when you look at it again. The book you read as a teenager that you find new meaning in as an adult. The movie or TV show that takes you back to a certain time in your life. The authors you can’t wait to read. This week we wanted to let you know some of our favorites … 

Amanda G., Circulation – Elin Hilderbrand is one of my favorite authors at the moment. Lately I’ve found myself wanting something a bit lighter and fun to read, and her novels fill the bill. Summer of ’69 and The Identicals are two of my recent favorites. Available on Libby

Mary G., Children’s – One of my all-time favorite books is The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver. It is about a missionary and his four daughters who travel to Africa in 1959. Well written and great for anyone who likes historical fiction. Available on Libby and Hoopla

Linda G., Circulation – I love A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. It’s a novel about a young girl and her family growing up in an impoverished Brooklyn neighborhood in the early part of the 20^th century – the same neighborhood where I grew up. Each time I read it, I have a new insight into the human condition. Available on Libby and Hoopla

Kristin G., Circulation – I love mysteries, and two of my favorite series are the Hannah Swensen series by Joanna Fluke and the Agatha Raisin series by M.C. Beaton. Both authors are perfect for a cozy day at home. Available on Libby and Hoopla

Victoria C., Reference – Bill Bryson is one of my favorite authors, and I have read A Short History of Nearly Everything several times. From the Big Bang through the beginnings of modern history, Bill takes readers on a fascinating journey, laced with humor. If you have an active mind and are curious about almost everything, you will find this book hard to put down. Available on Libby

Stephanie C., Circulation – I love all of Michael Connolly’s detective fiction, but am especially partial to Harry Bosch. Some of my favorites include The Lincoln Lawyer, Two Kinds of Truth and Trunk Music. Connolly has a new book coming out soon, Fair Warning, which can be put on hold. All are available on Libby

Diane M., Circulation – Although my favorite authors vary, right now I’m enjoying James Patterson. His books are fast moving, short chapters (pick-up, put-down) and easy reading, especially the women’s murder club collections. Two of my favorites are 1^st to Die and 2^nd Chance. Available on Libby

Cheryl K., Reference – To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is one of my all-time favorite books. It is a gripping, heart-wrenching and remarkable coming-of-age story set in a South poisoned by virulent prejudice. For me, this book works on many levels, as a crime story, as a story of childhood and family, and a portrait of small town life during the early part of the last century. Available on Libby 

Terms of Endearment is an Oscar-winner that tells the timeless story of the strong bond between a mother and a daughter. Based on a book by Larry McMurtry, this is one of those rare occasions when I enjoyed the movie more than the book. Available on Kanopy 

Nancy M., Circulation – My favorite author is Adriana Trigiani. I have read all her books, and am (im)patiently waiting for her to release another. I always say “if you are Italian or Catholic … you GET her” – but that doesn’t mean you have to be to enjoy her stories! Some of my favorites are The Shoemaker’s Wife, Lucia, Lucia, and the Very Valentine series. Available on Libby and Hoopla

Alice P., Children’s – One of my all-time favorites is Alfred Hitchcock. A few of his movies that I’ve viewed many times include The 39 Steps and The Lady Vanishes. Available on Hoopla

Genevieve M., Reference – Green Book is a movie I’ve watched several times. It’s a comedy/drama about two men from entirely different backgrounds that come together on a road trip through the Deep South. Their lasting friendship makes this movie worth watching again. 

Elaine N., Circulation – I always go back to the 80’s! Hoopla has a great collection including 80’s Mixtape and 80’s the Collection. Energetic, party dance music that I can listen to again and again!

Christine K., Circulation – Seinfeld is a show that I still laugh at. It’s great to put on while working or cooking because it is so familiar. Some of my favorite episodes are “The Contest”, “The Doorman” and “The Chicken Roaster. If you’ve never seen it, check it out! Streaming on Hulu

As we continue working from home, the staff has been rediscovering the resources available to MPL cardholders. Libby, Kanopy, Hoopla and RB Digital – we’d love to hear what you are discovering on our website!

Here are some of the things the staff is looking at this week.  Click on the titles to download or reserve:

Reading with Libby:

Redhead by the Side of the Road by Anne Tyler – Anne Tyler’s latest book is about Micah, a creature of habit, whose world is turned upside down when a young man knocks on his door claiming to be his son. Other Anne Tyler titles available in Libby to try are A Spool of Blue Thread, Clock Dance and The Accidental Tourist.
Cheryl K., Reference

From the Circulation Department

The staff at MPL have continued to read, watch and listen – and WE are discovering more about our online resources than we ever knew! We all can’t wait until we’re back at work and able to communicate directly with patrons. In the meantime, here are some of the things we’ve been doing this week:

Books – Favorites Old and New

Origin by Dan Brown – This is the fifth novel featuring Robert Langdon. A thriller to the end! Larry L.- Reference (Available on Libby/Overdrive in audio and e-book)

Members of the MPL staff have been reading, watching and listening up a storm this week! Here are our recommendations – let us know how you’re doing!

Amanda G. – Circulation Dept.
Bad Blood by John Carreyrou is the story of a Wall Street Journal reporter revealing one of the biggest cases of corporate fraud to come out of Silicon Valley. This book is a real page-turner – the fact that it is a true story makes it all the more enveloping! Available on Libby/Overdrive as ebook and audio book