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Grass Roots Books and Music
— 227 SW 2nd Street, Corvallis OR 97339 — 541-754-7668 |
| March 13, 2014 |
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Hi, everyone! My apologies for getting the newsletter in a little late. There were a few technical difficulites, but everything is in order, so Happy Friday!
Dare I say it? Spring has sprung! We're excited about our new eclectic March display of wacky books, and we've got nice shipment of music this week for you to take a listen to. Those are two great reasons to come by the store, along with all our lovely books. Enjoy the sunshine! |
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| Newest Books |
Boy, Snow, Bird
Helen Oyeyemi
In this unique retelling of the classic Snow White fairy tale, Oyeyemi places the archetypal characters we are familiar with in a 1950s New England setting. Boy Novak is 20 years old when she escapes her rat catching father from New York City for the quiet landscape of Flax Hill, Mass. There she meets the unassuming widower Arturo Whitman and his charming daughter Snow. Boy slowly finds herself won over by the sweet Arturo, but must contend with his overbearing mother, Olivia. As events progress, Oyeyemi weaves a story both reminiscent and new, ultimately transgressing the flat plot devices of fairy tales into a territory of rich, complex, and startlingly original characters.
Hardcover, $27.95
Publisher: Riverhead Books ; ISBN: 9781594631399 |
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Cathedral of the Wild: An African Journey Home
Boyd Varty
Championing the power nature holds over restoring the human spirit, Boyd Varty recounts his upbringing on his family’s South African game reserve. Mixing adventure, travel, and spiritual healing, Varty tells his memoir with great feeling. Learning to drive a Land Rover at 8, we see him brush up against the beauty and danger of elephants, leopards, hyenas, and baboons. He accompanies his uncle during shoots of wildlife documentaries, meets Nelson Mandela, and migrates with the wildebeests across the Serengeti. Culminating in an intense spiritual awakening, Varty reminds his readers of the importance of nature.
Hardcover, $27.00
Publisher:Random House; ISBN: 9781400069859 |
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Words of Radiance ( Stormlight Archive #02 )
Brandon Sanderson
Questions will finally be answered for followers of Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive sequence. In this latest installment old faces return with a vengeance. The war with the Parshendi moves into a new, dangerous phase, as Dalinar leads the human armies deep into the heart of the Shattered Plains. Meanwhile, Shallan searches for the legendary city of Urithuru, and Kaladin, leader of the restored Knights Radiant, masters the powers of a Windrunner. The intertwined storylines readers have come to expect from this series play out in compelling ways, and Sanderson delivers a powerful addition to this fantasy world’s narrative.
Hardcover, $28.99
Publisher:Tor Books ; ISBN: 9780765326362 |
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Redeployment
Phil Klay
In this gripping collection of short stories, debut author Phil Klay takes his readers into the realm of modern-day warfare and its after-effects. Each story rises out of the action or aftermath of the Iraq war, making this one of the most relevant collections of the moment. Already being compared to Joseph Heller and George Orwell for his pithy depiction of violence and humor, Klay takes presents the experiences of young veterans and army chaplains who, by virtue of their occupations, remain on the outskirts of our suburban lifestyle and mores. Exciting, fresh, and bold, you will want to be a follower of this new literary voice.
Hardcover, $26.95
Publisher: Penguin Press; ISBN: 9781594204999 |
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| New in Paperback |
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Eighty Days: Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland's History-Making Race Around the World
Matthew Goodman
On November 14, 1889, two young female journalists raced against one another, determined to outdo Jules Verne's fictional hero and circle the globe in less than 80 days. These women were Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland, individuals who couldn’t be more different in temperament and appearance, but driven by the same kind of inspiration. This was their chance to prove to the masculine world of Victorian-era journalism that woman were capable of outstanding professionalism. The dramatic race that ensued would span 28,000 miles, captivate the nation, and change both competitors' lives forever.
Paperback, $16.00
Publisher: Ballantine Books; ISBN: 9780345527271 |
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The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win World War II
Denise Kiernan
Denise Kiernan traces the astonishing story of the unsung World War II workers in Oak Ridge, Tennessee—one of the Manhattan Project's secret cities. Like Rebecca Skloot’s The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, this is history and science made fresh and vibrant—a beautifully told, deeply researched story that unfolds in a suspenseful and exciting way. The women reveal a narrative of determination, spirit, and intrigue in an era of deep uncertainty.
Paperback, $16.00
Publisher: Touchstone Books ; ISBN: 9781451617535 |
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The Illustrated Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living
Russ Harris
This book is for anyone interested in an easy how-to guide for getting down the basics of ACT (Acceptance and Committment Therapy). Culling from the principles first described in Russ Harris's The Happiness Trap, Harris teams up with Bev Aisbett to recapitulate these fascinating and beneficial mindfulness practices. The cartoons in this version are entertaining and thoughtful accompaniments to life-affirming suggestions for how to combat the stress, anxiety, and self-defeating habits we so often succumb to on a daily basis. Anyone can benefit with these encouraging tips.
Paperback, $14.95
Publisher: Shambhala Publications ; ISBN: 9781611801576 |
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Dirt Work: An Education in the Woods
Christine Byl
“This chronicle of years spent as a ‘traildog’ a seasonal worker doing the underappreciated, backbreaking work of maintaining wilderness trails first in Montana's Glacier National Park, and later in Alaska's Denali National Park blends beauty and crudeness, grit and grace. Successfully articulating the satisfaction of physical labor and the camaraderie of the people who do it, Byl organizes the book around her beloved tools. . . . [But] her most obvious love is for the people who work the trails with her, whose taciturn behavior, practical jokes, and machismo she must navigate, whose internal culture she learns as she becomes a part of the team, and whose mentorship is invaluable.” –Publishers Weekly Starred Review
Paperback, $17.00
Publisher: Beacon Press; ISBN: 9780807033272 |
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The All You Can Dream Buffet
Barbara O'Neal
The All You Can Dream Buffet is a poignant story of friendship and the imperfections our lives can take. At 85, Lavender Wills decides that she is going to pass her Oregon farm onto one of her best friends, but, after she brings all three women together, must ultimately decide which one. All four share a passion for food blogging, but vary widely in personality and experience. Together they retreat to the organic farm to cook, discuss, and soul-search for the answers to life’s inescapable problems, reconnecting in meaningful and surprising ways.
Paperback, $15.00
Publisher: Bantam; ISBN: 9780345536860 |
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| Featured Books for Young Readers |
Sparky!
Jenny Offill
Ages 4 to 8
A little girl decides she is bound and determined to get a pet at any cost. When her mother acquiesces only after setting a specific list of requirements (it can’t be walked, bathed, or fed) our young protagonist is finally granted her wish via Express Mail. Meet Sparky the sloth. Developing a unique, endearing, and humorous relationship with his devoted owner, this most unlikely of pets turns out to be just the right kind of addition to the family.
Hardcover, $16.99
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade Books; ISBN: 9780375870231 |
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Big Nate: In the Zone ( Big Nate )
Lincoln Peirce
Ages 8 to 12
In this next book of the Big Nate series, our crafty protagonist realizes he’s in a slump of bad luck. What can he possibly do when everything is coming out wrong? The solution lies in Chad’s lucky foot, a totem that turns Nate’s bout of bad luck upside down. Now he can’t lose! But sooner or later, all good things must come to an end. The question quickly becomes: when will it happen?
Hardcover, $13.99
Publisher: Harper; ISBN: 9780061996658 |
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| Music |
Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers
Live
Genre: Pop/Folk
The comedian Steve Martin has experienced a very successful career of late as a bluegrass banjo player. For this CD/DVD package, he reteams with the Steep Canyon Rangers for a lively collection of ‘grass originals and covers. ($19.95) |
Robben Ford
Day In Nashville
Genre: Pop/Folk
The iconic blues guitarist recorded his new album during one day in Nashville (hence, the title). Along with his traditional blues, Ford's collection adds an americana flavor to his originals and covers. ($15.95) |
Claudia Schmidt
New Whirled Order
Genre: Pop/Folk
New Whirled Order is the definitive album of Claudia's career. Her first new studio album on Red House in over a decade, she has fashioned a genre of her own, seamlessly blending folk and jazz, much like Nina Simone did in her day. Featuring an ensemble of great players including master guitarist Dean Magraw, New Whirled Order is an adventurous and wonderfully produced album from one of folk music's most profound songwriters and performers. ($17.95) |
Benmont Tench
You Should Be So Lucky
Genre: Pop/Folk
For more than 3 decades, Tench has served as the keyboard player for Tom Petty, as well as playing with other acts such as Bob Dylan and Ryan Adams. For his first solo record, Tench recalls some of those favors on a star-studded album of roots-tinged rock. ($13.95) |
Jonathan & Charlotte
Perhaps Love
Genre: Classical
This unlikely young duo captivated audiences for Britain's Got Talent, though they lost to a trained dog act. Like Andrea Bocelli or Charlotte Church, they apply their beautiful vocals to an accessible mix of opera, show tunes, and converted pop ballads. ($11.95) |
Nick Waterhouse
Holly
Genre: Jazz
Listening to Nick Waterhouse, one might be forgiven for assuming he is an artist from a past generation. From LA, Waterhouse's sophomore record offers upbeat, full band R&B, behind the singer's soulful throwback vocals. ($12.95) |
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| Community Events |
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Community Events
Darkside Cinema: Movies showing 3/14 to 3/20, showtimes daily, Darkside Cinema, Corvallis. Visit their website for showtimes.
- Art Of The Steal—R Crunch Calhoun (Kurt Russell), a third rate motorcycle daredevil and semi-reformed art thief, agrees to get back into the con game and pull off one final lucrative art theft with his untrustworthy brother, Nicky (Matt Dillon).
- Tim’s Vermeer—PG-13 You don't even need to care about art to be entertained by this clever, swift documentary.
- Beter Living Through Chemistry–NR Sam Rockwell proves to be one of the funniest actors in the business. Olivia Wilde, Roy Liotta.
- Nebraska–R Nominated for Best Picture. Bruce Dern.
- 12 Years A Slave–R Academy Award for Best Picture of 2013.
Literary Events:
- Writers on the River Spring Reading: Join WotR for their spring public reading and open mic night, providing local writers the opportunity to share their latest pieces. Please visit the Writers on the River website for more information. Monday, March 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Dennis Hall at the First Presbyterian Church 114 SW 8th St., Corvallis.
- OSU MFA Reading Series, featuring Abby Souza, Eric Altemus, Max Rubin, and Kelsi Villarreal: Thursday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m., New Morning Bakery, Corvallis.
Opportunities:
- Ebook Clinic Get help with downloading Library ebooks and audiobooks! Advanced registration is required - please call 541-766-6793 to register. If you already own an ebook reader or a mobile device, please bring it with you. Also bring passwords for your accounts (e.g. Apple ID, Amazon login, email password). Corvallis-Benton Public Library, Thursday, March 20, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., in the Corvallis Library Main Meeting Room
Ticket Sales: Grass Roots sells tickets for local music events. Please call or stop by the store to see what's currently available.
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Saturday, March 22
LaSells Stewart Center
OSU, Corvallis |
Insights into Gardening
(Rescheduled from Feb. 8)
This event is sponsored by the Benton County Master Gardeners Association and Oregon State University Extension Service.
Insights into Gardening is a day-long seminar offering practical, hands-on learning for home gardeners and gardeners-to-be. Whether you are an experienced or novice gardener, new to the area or an Oregon native, you will find plenty of ideas to make your gardening easier, more enjoyable and more successful. Please visit the Insight into Gardening website for updated registration information.
Books recommended by event speakers and general gardening books will be available to purchase from Grass Roots Books & Music. Discounts are available on select items. The onsite bookstore will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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| News |
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Featured in the Store
Unique and wonderful books!
Come by Grass Roots to see our latest March display of little-known gems, oddballs, and alternative topics for every strange day that marks the month. For example, in Free-Range Chicken Gardens: How to Create a Beautiful, Chicken-Friendly Yard by Jessi Bloom you can read up on great gardening and chicken-rearing techniques for March 19: Poultry Day! Perhaps you’d like to celebrate Bunsen Burner Day now that you know it exists (March 31). If so, pick up a copy of Ask a Science Teacher: 250 Questions You’ve Always Had About How Everyday Stuff Works by Larry Scheckel. Disappointed that you’ve missed your chance to honor National Pig Day (March 1)? Make up for it by gobbling up the humorous essays and stories found in Ham: Slices of Life by Sam Harris. This display proves there really is a book for everything, so swing on by. You might just discover a passion for something you had no idea was a hobby! |
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| This Week's Puzzle |
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The jigsaw will be back next week. Sorry to our devoted jigsawers! |
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| Reading Group Selection |
Tuesday, April 1, 6:30-8 p.m.
A Tale for the Time Being
Ruth L Ozeki
Tiffany will be leading our April reading group discussion of A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki. Check our staff favorites section to see what Tiffany had to say about it in her review.
Nao is a 16-year-old Japanese schoolgirl, shy and bullied, determined to end it all to avoid her dreary life. Before she does, she plans to document the life of her great-grandmother, a Buddhist nun. Across the Pacific, Ruth is a struggling writer on a remote island off the coast of British Columbia. On the beach she finds a Hello Kitty lunchbox washed ashore, filled with a curious collection of artifacts, including a collection of letters and a journal. As the mystery of its contents unfolds, Ruth is pulled into the past, into Nao's drama and her unknown fate, and forward into her own future. |
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Publisher: Penguin Books
ISBN:9780143124870
Paperback
Regular price: $16.00
On sale for $13.60 until April 1.
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On Our Nightstands |
 Erika
The Dandelion's Tale
Kevin Sheehan
Ages 3-7
This cute picture book about remembering one dandelion’s tale has a message that will resonate with people of all ages. It is about sharing our loved ones’ stories so that they can live on. The pictures are delightful and I love the little face Dunlavey gives the dandelion. It all starts with a sparrow overhearing the dandelion crying in the meadow, afraid that she will be forgotten. Little does she know that will definitely not be the case!
Paperback, $16.99
Publisher:Schwartz & Wade Books; ISBN: 9780375870323 |
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Kendall
The News: A User's Manual
Alain de Botton
As of late, the news has become a different beat. If you are like me, you're having a hard time navigating through the world of Fox and CNN to find truly informative news. Without the sort of news station portrayed in The Newsroom, I'm left to find a way of interpreting the information available to me. This is where The News: A User's Manual comes in. Alain de Botton lays out the truth about contemporary news with wit and logic. Without fussing around with overly complex ideas or language, he leaves the reader better prepared for life in the information new age.
Paperback, $26.95
Publisher: Pantheon Books ; ISBN: 9780307379122 |
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Tiffany
Miss Maple's Seeds
Eliza Wheeler
Ages 3 to 7
Miss Maple celebrates the seasons as she gathers orphan seeds in the summer, nurtures them over the winter, and releases them in the spring to burgeon into new plants, flowers, and trees. Tiny enough to ride upon a bird's back, this whimsical character lives in a treehouse and will charm young readers with her caring ways, while the gorgeous ink and watercolor illustrations will have them poring over the pages to absorb every detail. Curl up with a child and this enchanting picture book and explore the wonders of nature together.
Hardcover, $16.99
Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books; ISBN: 9780399257926 |
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| Grass Roots Online — Contact Us |
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