Dear Reader,
 
Here are a couple of books that might strike you as intriguing as we begin focusing on Mother's Day and the women that add immeasurably to our lives - as friends, daughters, mothers, and wives.
 
It isn't easy to get funny right, but for my money Gina Barreca gets funny better than most anyone writing.  In her new book If You Lean In, Will Men Just Look Down Your Blouse?, she expounds on issues both mundane (Spandex) and profound (love) using both poignant personal examples and the sharpest of wit to skewer the ridiculous, the over earnest and dishonest that we all cope with too frequently.  This is perfect reading for those who want to smile, laugh, and ponder the world of womanhood.  Having Gina as our sage, crazy guide will leave you wiser, happier, and more equipped!
 
I must be on a funny bent because the other book I am loving is Betsy Lerner's The Bridge Ladies.  Betsy Lerner had me at the first sentence.  Her kindness and curiosity and wit and warmth imbue this story of her mother and her bridge club on every page. When I wasn't laughing out loud, I was reminded that a group of older women that you might see at the diner or at the theatre are not "books" to be judged by their covers. Betsy brings a journalist's curiosity and a daughter's sensitivity to all the conversations. Ultimately, it is her relationship with her mother that is defining. The honesty and frustration and love of their story has lingered in my mind.  It is the book to give and share and relish this spring.  Betsy will be at the store on May 12th to share her wonderful story.  I hope you'll join me.  Please register your attendance here.
 
One of my favorite quotes which I have shared with you before is from E.B. White:  

"I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and 
a desire to enjoy the world. This makes it hard to plan the day."

It is this conflict of motion and stillness that fascinates me. It represents the perfect representation of balance when accomplished. 

Now to guide and intrigue us, comes a wonderful book called Hurry Up and Wait.  This fantastic collaboration between Maira Kalman and Daniel Handler matches unusual, whimsical and delightful photographs from the archives of the Museum of Modern Art with language that is mischievous and smart.   Technically, this is a children's book, but I consider it the new "got to have" handy book and the perfect companion to Seneca's On the Shortness of Life (you probably think I am name dropping but I urge you to also read this book which feels contemporary and a book I reread and reread).  I will probably never get the balance right but I am always energized by trying, and books like Hurry Up and Wait always help - small, small incremental steps - one day at a time.
 
So, take a moment to wander in the bookstore, on the beach, in the park, or literally smell the roses on one of these beautiful spring days.

See you in the store,

Roxanne J. Coady


P.S.  How lucky are we!?  Next week - May 3rd to be exact - we are hosting two accomplished and delightful authors: Anna Quindlen and Amy Bloom in conversation about Anna's new book, Miller's Valley.  Imagine these two in conversation- don't miss it!

 

 

 


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