Meet Andy Warner, a recently deceased everyman and newly minted zombie who is sulking in his hometown of Soquel/Santa Cruz. Reviled by society, Andy is having trouble adjusting. That all changes at an Undead Anonymous meeting where he meets Rita, a sexy recent suicide, and Jerry, a car crash victim with a penchant for Renaissance pornography. Darkly funny, surprisingly touching, and gory enough to satisfy even the most discerning reader, Breathers is a romantic zombie comedy (rom-zom-com, for short) that will leave you laughing, squirming, and clamoring for more.

Great wines are made in the vineyard, and Ventana Vineyards in Monterey County has the perfect combination of water, soil, climate, art and science to create superb, world-class wines. Winemaker Reggie Hammond crafts wines in a classical style, with elegance and true varietal character from the vineyard fruit. All wines are Estate grown and bottled from their single vineyard, the most award-winning single vineyard in America. Joining us today is Lindsey Caldwell, Northern California Sales Manager for Ventana Vineyards. She will be sharing thirty years of fascinating stories as well as her wines: 2007 Chardonnay, 2007 Pinot Noir, 2007 Rubystone (Grenache Syrah blend), 2008 Dry Rosado (Grenache rose), and 2008 Sauvignon Blanc.
 
A cheese & bread selection is included in the $8 participation fee. Participation may be limited and the wines and conversation will be excellent!

 
Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul, he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition. On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through. A heart-wrenching but deeply funny story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain, an IndieBound and New York Times bestseller, is a captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life...as only a dog could tell it.

NEW READERS ARE WELCOME

This month's selection is Evidence of Things Unseen by Marianne Wiggins. Read the book and join the discussion.
 
This poetic novel, by the acclaimed author of John Dollar, describes America at the brink of the Atomic Age. In the years between the two world wars, the future held more promise than peril, but there was evidence of things unseen that would transfigure our unquestioned trust in a safe future.

American olive-oil producers are creating artisanal oils that take top honors at tastings worldwide. For those of us whose knowledge of olive oil remains extra-virgin, author Fran Gage sets out all the essentials: buying and storing high-grade oils, understanding basic types, evaluating its health benefits, and doing your own olive-oil tasting. She then uses American-produced oils in dishes ranging from rustic to sophisticated (75 recipes included).

 

Today, join her for a talk and tasting also starring two Santa Cruz County olive oil producers: Colline di Santa Cruz, created by Bruce Golino and Chris Banthien at Valencia Creek Farm, and Belle Farms, made by Steve and Marguerite Remde in Watsonville.