"Escape" by Carolyn Jessop

This was the personal story of Carolyn Jessop, who escaped
from the radical polygamist cult of the FLDS. She tells her story with
great honesty and detail. It was haunting to read that such evil can be
so widely followed by thousands of people in America. Her tale exposes
the FLDS for their hypocrisy, sexism, and overall incomprehensible way
of life. Reading this book will give a glimpse into the frighteningly
mad cult that Carolyn had to endure for most of her life before finding
a way to escape.

Lynn Graham

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"The Beach House" by Jane Green

This was truly one of Jane Green's best novels. It was a
wonderful character study of several people whose lives were changed
someway by betrayal, miscommunication, and love. Expertly written with
accurate and realistic emotion, this story makes the reader ponder choices
and consequences. Furthermore, each character struggles and evolves
making this a great and satisfying read. Loved it!

Lynn Graham

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"The Appeal" by John Grisham

Very fast read. Different from other books as it takes
place after the verdict. Thoroughly enjoyed although still disturbed by the
ending.

Christina Karlovec

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"Hop on Pop" by Dr. Seuss

I read this book to my two-year old son...and still found
myself enjoying it. In my opinion, one of Doctor Seuss's greatest
stories.

Kathleen Mansour

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"Me and Mr. Darcy" by Alexandra Potter

This was a cute fantasy for any chick-lit and Jane Austen
fan! Emily, a lonely book store manager and hopeless Mr. Darcy romantic,
impulsively books a literary trip to Jane Austen's England. While
there, she meets many interesting characters. From the old ladies in her
tour group, to the arrogant reporter trying to understand the Darcy
obsession, Emily finds herself in a fantasy world where dreams possibly
come true. This is an enjoyable and fun read!

Lynn Graham

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"Texas Princess" by Jodi Thomas

I stumbled across this author and now I'm hooked. This is
the 3rd book of hers that I've read and I want more. Her novels are a
combination of romance,action adventure and mystery all masterfully
blended by a gifted storyteller. Whether set in modern day or old west
Texas, her books grab you from page one. The "princess" in this novel who's
a senator's daughter trying to escape an ill-fated marriage. What
happens next is pure adventure.

Gayle Celizic

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"Sail" by James Patterson

Fast paced read. A typical Patterson novel until the
climax. There's a glitch in the story line. Maybe because he has a co-author
this time. But, even with that the book is well worth the time.

Gayle Celizic

Request "Sail" here

"A Year Down Yonder" by Richard Peck

It is 1937, and the Depression has hit the Dowdel family
hard. Mary Alice, a 15 year old girl, is sent to live with her eccentric
grandmother down in Illinois. She is taken on night adventures to
catch foxes, witnesses a large snake from her attic, and is humilated on
several accounts by her trigger-happy grandma. A Year Down Yonder is
original and humorous; I recommend it to everyone.

leila mansour

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"A Beautiful Mind" (DVD)

A Beautiful Mind is fantastic. It is based on the true
story of Professor Nash Jr, a mathematical genius that suffers through
schizophrenia. After graduate school, he turns to teaching, where he gets
romanitcally involved with one of his pupils. Meanwhile, the
government requests for his aid in breaking Soviet codes, and he gets invloved
in a harrowing conspiracy plot. Becoming more and more paranoid, he
does not belive when people tell me there is no conspiracy-its all in his
head. Prof. Nash struggles to overcome his mental disorder and lead a
normal life. A Beautiful Mind is a touching must-see that portrays a
schizophrentic man's struggles to overcome his disablity.

Kathleen Mansour

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"Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" (DVD)

The film,Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, is
phenomenal. The characters are very developed and have interesting
personalities- from Draco's tough bullying to Hagrid's gentle outlook. The plot
was suspensful and entertaining- I could not look away from the screen.
I am very much looking forward to watching the rest of the movies.

Kathleen Mansour

Request a copy here

"Love the One You're With" by Emily Giffin

This book was a very honest and deep portrayal of regrets
and insecurities involving love and marriage. Giffin truly weaves a
story of obsession and guilt as main character Ellen tries to decide which
choice in love is best for her. She struggles with letting go of a
past love who brought out the insecurities that still loom overhead in her
current life. Her unaware husband has no idea the internal struggle
that grips her heart. After reading Giffin's previous three novels, this
one had a much darker and uneasy feeling associated with the storyline
and characters. However, I still enjoyed this story because it makes
you analyze deeply all the complexities of love both as an individual and
with another.

Lynn Graham

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"What's Eating Gilbert Grape" (DVD)

I thought this movie was excellent. Gilbert Grape( Johhny
Depp) plays the big, responsible brother in the family. He watches
after his MR teen brother Arnie( Leonardo DiCaprio) and his extremely
obese mother, which get in his way when love walks in his life. What's
Eating Gilbert Grape is truly amazing.

Kathleen Mansour

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"Good In Bed" by Jennifer Weiner

I thought this book started off a bit slow. I actually
picked it up and put it down a few times. But once I finally allowed myself
to get into it, it was a faster read. Overall good plot and left me
wanting to read its sequel "Certain Girls."

Christina Karlovec

Request "Good In Bed"

"Sail" by James Patterson

James Patterson did it once again, kept me on the edge of
my seat from the first page until the last. If you are looking for a
quick summer read full of suspense, pick up this book.

Christina Karlovec

Request "Sail"

"2 Days in Paris" (DVD)

Funny french film about a couple together for two years.
She is French , he is American. He speaks no French and they go to visit
her parents and see her friends. They meet a few of her old lovers and
the dialogue is very funny. '
They decide to stay together after all.

Kathy Bacchi

Request "2 Days in Paris"

"The Da Vinci Code" (DVD)

The Da Vinci code was certainly very suspenseful. Tom
Hanks, one of my favorite actors, is called up on a case concerning a dead
man's message. On the man's chest and surrounding his body are ancient
symbols, and Robert (Tom)is given the job to uncover the symbols'
meaning. Battling his way through a very mistaken police officer and
dealing with a secretive Christian group called Opus Dei, the Da Vinci Code is
nothing short of action.

Kathleen Mansour

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"Queen of Babble in the Big City" by Meg Cabot

This fun and entertaining book is the second in Cabot's
"Queen of Babble" series. It continues the story of recent college
graduate Lizzie Nichols, who is going off to NYC in hopes of landing her
dream job and progressing her dream romance. This story is very funny and
exciting as Lizzie is forced to survive some stressful yet amusing
situations. A great read and satisfying sequel. I can't wait to find out
what happens next in the series!

Lynn Graham

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"The Secret Life of Josephine Napoleon's Bird of Paradise" by Carolly Erickson

Your review This fabulous "historical entertainment" chronicles the extremely interesting life of Napoleon's wife. From her tropical childhood home to her narrow escape from the guillotine, this book provides the reader with countless moments of surprise, tragedy, and strength. Another triumph for Erickson.

Lynn Graham

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"The Hidden Diary of Marie Antoinette" by Carolly Erickson

Ok, now I'm obsessed with Marie Antoinette! I absolutely loved this fictional account of the Marie Antoinette! Carolly Erickson uses amazing imagery and detail to bring life to the unfortunate former queen. This book was intriguing, sad, entertaining, and well written. I loved it and highly recommend reading it after seeing the movie Marie Antoinette, so the reader can visually imagine each diary entry!

Lynn Graham

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"The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen" by Syrie James

Extremely well written! This story was beautiful and very true to form. I loved her attention to detail and well researched characters. You will root for Jane and cry at her losses. A wonderful choice for any Austen fan!

Lynn Graham

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"Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer

What a gripping tale of danger and romance! Don't be fooled that this book is logged under Kids/Young Adult. It's a fabulous story that all will enjoy! It's written from the point of view of a brave, cool 17 yr. old girl who falls in love with a dangerous yet amazing guy. This book is a definite page turner and you won't be able to put it down. I can't wait to read the other books in the Twilight saga!

Lynn Graham

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"Mademoiselle Boleyn" by Robin Maxwell

This is an excellent historical account!I absolutely love Robin Maxwell's work. She's a dedicated author and historian who relies on facts to weave her tales. She brings humanity to Anne Boleyn's character and makes the reader feel the emotions of each character. I feel this book is a well researched representation and should be given the popularity that other "undeserved" Anne Boleyn accounts receive.

Lynn Graham

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"The Five People You Meet in Heaven" by Mitch Albom

I felt this book was strange yet intriguing. This story was inspirational and strange at the same time. It was a nice narrative that made you ponder the truth behind living this life. The characters are quite symbolic and leaves the reader thinking more after the story is through.

Lynn Graham

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"New Moon" by Stephenie Meyer

This is the second book in the Twilight series and the most heartrending yet. Bella and Edward embark on a new chapter in their relationship and are faced with sad and honest results. Meyer does a fabulous job bringing the real emotions of love facing obstacles and understanding the pain that comes along with it. Keep reading these books, the story only pulls you in deeper!

Lynn Graham

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"Eclipse" by Stephenie Meyer

Again, Meyer weaves a riveting tale with star characters Bella and Edward. The powerful relationship between the two moves to a whole new level in this third installment of the Twilight series. Meyer expertly builds the electric chemistry between forbidden lovers. I'm obsessed!

Lynn Graham

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"Faking It" by Jennifer Crusie

Want to escape to a crazy, mixed up art gallery teeming with love affairs and mystery? Then this book is a sweet escape! Crusie never fails to entertain with her sexy characters and witty dialogue. Take it to the pool or beach and enjoy!

Lynn Graham

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"Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog" by John Grogan

What a lovely book! The author writes with such humorous ease and really gets to the heart of being a pet owner. His experience with Marley was depicted which such description, the reader will feel great love and loss as the book ends. I loved this book and recommend it to anyone who needs a laugh or a heartwarming read.

Lynn Graham

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"Queen of Babble" by Meg Cabot

What a hilarious story! I loved reading about a young woman who with all her insecurities, still stays true to herself. The main character evolves throughout the story and you will laugh and root for her during her exciting journey. Cabot's womanly insight is right on. She does an extremely good job of relating to the reader while bringing to light the silly and stupid mistakes of being young.

Lynn Graham

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"The Tenth Circle" by Jodi Picoult

Another sweet read! Jodi Picoult is one of my favorite authors, and she delivers yet another truly addictive novel. The creative comic book realm adds to the overall mystifying story and setting. The emotional relationships are very real and I felt for each character and appreciated their strenghts and faults. I loved it and highly recommend it!

Lynn Graham

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"Everything Changes" by Jonathan Tropper

This book is very honest and makes you laugh! I loved it! The characters are fantastic and I laughed throughout the entire story. You will fall in love with the lead character. It was a very insightful way to understand the man's point of view.

Lynn Graham

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"Norma Ever After" by Nancy Baxter

This story is still with me! I loved it! Norma goes through quite an evolution and I really felt for her through her journey. The characters are well developed, mysterious, and real. A great book to devour!

Lynn Graham

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"The Last Wife of Henry VIII" by Carolly Erickson

Another well done "historical entertainment"! This book was very interesting and inspired me to learn more about Henry VIII and his wives. It was extremely well written and I adore Carolly Erickson!

Lynn Graham

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"The Thin Red Line" (DVD)

A war movie highlighting a major battle of WWII. Good movie. Scary concept for a parent of a teenage boy. I vevidly remember my parents concern with brothers eligible for the draft during the Viet Nam War.

Kathleen Bacchi

Get your copy here!

"What the Deaf Man Heard" (DVD)

Matthew Modine stars in this movie. Good tearjerker with a
great ending.
Matthew learned that people tended to talk to you and share their soul
with you if they thought you couldn't hear them. Great hallmark movie.

Kathleen Bacchi

Request your copy here!

"Drumline" (DVD)

Very good teen movie. Appropriate for my family since I
have a teenage son who plays trombone. I would like to see him excited in
playing in the HS marching band.

Kathleen Bacchi

"Raiders of the Lost Ark" (DVD)

Raiders of the Lost Ark is filled with great suspense, adventure, and action. If you enjoy other "Indiana Jones," you will certainly enjoy this one.

Leila Mansour

Get your copy here!

"Murder on a Girls' Night Out" by Anne George

I listened to the audio book "Murder on a Girls' Night Out by Anne George.
This is the first "southern sisters" series book I've "read". It was so enjoyable, I've checked out another. These two 60-something sisters get themselves into jams and solve a murder while trying to find husbands for their adult daughters.

Mary Ann Wagner

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"Postern of Fate" by Agatha Christie

I just finished Agatha Christie's "Postern of Fate." I'm an Agatha Christie fan, but this was not one of my favorites. It was published in 1978, so it was one of her later works, and I've decided I definitely like her early ones better. The story was not very engaging; two-thirds of the way through I still felt like I wasn't into it. Several details seemed to change during the book, like it wasn't edited properly. Several monologues by characters didn't seem to fit at all. All in all, not one I would probably read again. But it was the end of a quasi-series, so at least I finished it

Ellen Bede

Read it for yourself!

"The Black Swan" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Have you ever sat in a corporate five-year planning meeting and wondered if everyone present was wasting their time? Do you watch the news and feel easily swayed by the analysis and predictions of "experts" but don't know how to critically judge their accuracy and value? Does the apparent randomness and risk of everyday life sometimes cause you to react or overreact instead of think clearly?
"The Black Swan" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb bears the subtitle: "The Impact of the Highly Improbable." Although it may be highly improbable that you will try to answer the questions above by picking up what might appear to be an extremely academic and technical tome, it is very likely that if you do, you will find yourself delighted and suprised by how fascinating and accessible this book is! Taleb will challenge traditional thinking on many levels with regard to how we put our trust in experts, financial "wizards," corporate planners and predictors, even trusted news services, but he does so in a painless, almost folksy manner that belies his high level of scholarship and logic. Topics as wide-raning as luck, chance, fairness and personal success are covered.
Readers may find themselves following Taleb's "expert" advice to factor in what is not said or not immediately obvious when assessing everything from world events to their own lives after reading this worthwhile book.

Leslie Malone

National Geographic "Amazing Planet" (DVD)

This is one of the most facinating TV series ever created. National Geographic has created a virtual time machine which takes us back to the origin of the earth. It gives useful info such as how continents were created, how oceans formed, and what are geographic fault lines. I would recommend it to everyone who is interested in knowing the origin of the earth.

Request "Amazing Planet".

"Lagaan" (DVD)

An emotional story of loyalty, faith in oneself, patriotism, belief in religion, belief in true love, and fight against injustice.

Dayanand Letawa

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"Diana: An Intimate Portrait" (DVD)

Very touching, astonishing information. I learned some strange and startling truths about a person sunken in sadness and misery, who was always smiling and helping the poor and downtrodden.

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Lights! Camera! READ! - Adults

Sign up any time between June 14 and August 6. Register online or in person at the Main Library or the Branches. Don’t forget to pick up your free Baskin Robbins ice cream coupon for signing up.
Once you’ve registered you can submit a review of any book, audio book or movie that you’ve read, listened to or watched from the MPL collection. Each review is an entry into weekly drawings for great prizes. Prize drawings will be held every Monday beginning June 30 for gift certificates, gift baskets and free passes from some of the area’s finest establishments!
The adult & teen summer reading programs will award Grand Prizes on August 7 at 7:00 p.m. during our “That’s a Wrap” party. Come dressed for the occasion as a character from your favorite book or movie. Frank Krupa, a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild and the Federation of American Television and Radio Artists, will be our host for an evening of fun activities about books and movies.