Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library

Breakfast With Rudolph

2011-11-29T21:30:00.005-05:00

Bring your small children to the Daingerfield Public Library for

BREAKFAST WITH RUDOLPH

Saturday, December 3
9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Light breakfast served to the children.

Book Review

2011-11-29T21:25:00.003-05:00

Explosive Eighteen
A Stephanie Plum Novel
by Janet Evanovich

Yes. Yes! YES!! Quite an improvement on #17. This evening when I turned page 305 and looked for page 306...it was blank! And what should've been page 307 had a notice for the Coming June 19, 2012 Wicked Business, the next book in the Lizzy and Diesel series.

I turned back to page 305 and reread it.

What gives?!

Where is page 306? And page 307? And page 308. And the rest of the book?!

Come on!

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?!

Friends Holiday Sweets

2011-10-13T21:20:00.001-04:00

Book Signings

2011-10-13T21:11:00.002-04:00

Book Review

2011-09-14T20:48:00.005-04:00

End of summer reading...Three thumbs up!

Silver Girl
by Elin Hilderbrand

I had a long lonely driving trip from home to San Marcos and back for a business seminar. My sister-in-law gave me a 12 hour audio book. Perfect for this round trip of 700 or so miles.

This book covers it all: true friendship, betrayal, theft on a BIG scale, fear, forgiveness, turning the other cheek, walking away.

At first I was a bit 'put-off' because each chapter represented either Connie's or Meredith's viewpoint. But as the story progressed and the blanks were filled in...it started making sense. Lose ends were tied up.

Well written...well performed. Well worth reading...or listening to.

This audio book has been donated to the Daingerfield Public Library

007 - Carte Blanche
by Jeffery Deaver

I saw a new Jeffery Deaver book and picked it up...checked it out...and took it home. Once home, I finally looked at it.

WAIT JUST A COTTON PICKING MINUTE! Who does this Deaver character think he is trying to usurp Ian Fleming (God bless his soul) and start writing 007 novels? Turns out he is fully capable of taking over the reins and continuing the James Bond novels.

He fleshed out James Bond a bit more...a bit more information about his early life and career...continuing his appreciation of a good bottle of wine, fast cars, beautiful women...and danger around every corner.

The Race
by Clive Cussler and Justin Scott

Cussler and Scott have redeemed themselves! I had almost decided that I just did not like the Isaac Bell novels...featured in the early 1900s. This book renewed my faith in the Cussler/Scott writing duo.

Featuring the relatively new world of "aeroplanes," this book had some technical stuff I skimmed over, but was well written and kept my attention throughout.

Book Review

2011-07-21T16:24:00.004-04:00

YES! Finally, a book worth investing my time in to read.

The Sixth Man

by David Baldacci

A classic "whodunit" that really kept me guessing. It wasn't perfect, but HEY! This is a novel...FICTION!

For a long time I thought I had figured out someone involved in the serial murders. Then...decided that I was wrong. Hmmm. THEN I realized that I was RIGHT.

However, I did not have it all figured out. There was an expected twist at the end that left me with an "ah-ha" moment.

Definitely worth your time.

Book Review

2011-07-13T22:07:00.006-04:00

Smokin' Seventeen
by Janet Evanovich

LOL funny! I've read better in this series, but I am anxious to see what happens next. Fans of Stephanie Plum, please do not boo me, but just how much longer is Evanovich going to be able to continue having Stephanie tip-toe around her choice between Ranger and Morelli? And in Smokin' Seventeen, Stephanie has a third man who wants her!

Explosive Eighteen is scheduled for release November 22. I can hardly wait!

The Daingerfield Public Library has all of the Stephanie Plum novels in book and audiobook form.

The Kingdom - A Fargo Adventure
by Clive Cussler with Grand Blackwood

I have mentioned before how much I enjoy the beginning of Cussler's novels. He begins with some obscure piece of history. The book then unfolds and shows the relevance today.

I would like to see the Fargos' "fleshed" out more. Learn more about them. This is still a book worth reading. Personally I'm waiting on another NUMA series release. :-)

Borrow your favorite Clive Cussler series from the Daingerfield Public Library.

Angel
by James Patterson

Oh my goodness! I haven't read any in this series until this book, the seventh in the series. If this junk is the best Patterson can do, it's time to quit!

The Daingerfield Public Library carries many of Patterson's better books. But I would definitely pass this series without another glance.

Book Review

2011-05-21T18:02:00.001-04:00

Killer Smile
by Lisa Scottoline

A bit of mystery. A bit of humor. Unusual characters. An American community of Italian decent. What a fun read!

Scottoline is a favorite author of mine. She writes a very readable mystery without the tension and gore of many other mystery writers yet not full of fluff.

I enjoyed the historical element of Philadelphia. The "feel" of a predominate Italian/American neighbor. The banter between the lead character and her BFF.

The Daingerfield Public Library has this book and many other by Lisa Scottoline.

Book Review

2011-05-17T17:08:00.003-04:00

I have a confession to make. I received a Kindle accompanied by a nice size gift card for Christmas. I would have never purchased a Kindle for myself, but I have truly been enjoying it! With so many free books and 99 cent books, I refuse to buy new releases though. The only time I come anywhere close to a new book is if I am reading a series and have to may more for the newest release. Needless to say, this has greatly curtailed my library book checkout. While visiting with the librarian a week or so ago, I did walk out with a few books. These two really caught my eye.

Worth Dying For - A Jack Reacher novel

by Lee Child

Lee Child is a favorite mystery author. I like Jack Reacher. He's kind of like the Lone Ranger...always riding in to save the day but without a trusty sidekick.

This one kept me guessing to almost the very end wondering what commodity was in the white van. I never figured it out. After several months of reading free and 99 cent books from unheard of authors, this was a very nice change.

Just the idea of so many twisted people in one family...unfathomable. It's sort of like when the bad guys in the old westerns took over a whole town. While watching the old black and white movies I always wondered why it took the guy in the white hat to ride into town to get a handle on the bad guys. Why didn't the town people step up?

Same thing in this book. Very worth the time spent reading.

Tough Customer

by Sandra Brown

This is a rare treat. Brown seldoms does series. But she liked her main character in Smash Cut so much that she wrote a sequel. So be sure to read Smash Cut first.

This was one of those hard to put down books. Reading along and realizing that something was being missed but unable to put a finger on it with Dodge Hanley and the officer in charge. When the case was "solved"...something was still wrong.

Added to the mix was Dodge waiting for the young lady in trouble to realize that Dodge was actually her biological dad.

When the twist at the end hit...AHA!

So...both of these books were unusual for me. Generally I have formed either several ideas about "whodoneit," or I know exactly "whodoneit." I didn't have either of these figured out in advance.

Be sure to support your local library!

You Will Absolutely NOT Believe This

2011-04-29T12:44:00.003-04:00

Our librarian was held up at gunpoint this past Monday. Arrested at Wal-Mart later the same day, the armed robber stole a donation jar with less than $100 in it. When arrested, $38 was recovered and returned to the librarian.

As you can see from the photo, she has recovered quite nicely with the help of a basket full of her favorite chocolate candy which she received from friends.

To make it easier and safer for her, please make your donations to the Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library at Texas Heritage National Bank in Daingerfield.

We are so thankful to God that she was not injured and that no one else was in the library at the time of the robbery.

Book Review

2011-04-01T21:26:00.002-04:00

The Jungle
The Oregon Files
by Clive Cussler
with Jack Du Brul

There's just not much more left to say about Clive Cussler and his novels. I like just about everything he writes. ("Just about"... the last book in his Isaac Bell series...I did not like it very well.)

But once again, the Cussler-Du Brul team has produced a well-written, exciting page turner of a novel. I like how Cussler connects past events - in this case eastern China in 1281 - with events unfolding in the modern day world (of fiction).

Juan Cabrillo and his team become enthralled in yet another rescue in which treasure seeking plays a predominate part. Action takes place around the globe and even brushes New Orleans and part of Texas Gulf Coast.

If you are not familiar with Clive Cussler's writing, head on down to the Daingerfield Public Library!

Book Review

2011-03-29T17:09:00.004-04:00

The Pioneer Woman

by Ree Drummond

This book is a modern day romance that's hard to put down.

Ree Drummond, blogger turned novelist, takes you on a journy of exhilarating romance. She tells her own captivating story as only she can. A vegetarian, country club, city girl who meets her steak eating, rugged (yet oh so tender), Wrangler wearing cowboy, Marlboro Man.

This author truly brings you into her storymaking you feel like best friends...there beside her for every moment of her journey. From the first time Ree noticed her true love, through the butterflies, the tears, the secure embrace of his strong suntanned arms, all the way to the steamy take your breath away kisses.

So grab yourself a comfy chair, a tall glass of tea, and accompany your best friend on her jouney from lost city girl to strong county woman.

Angel

The Daingerfield Public Library has this book and many others available for loan.

Visit your public library today!

Successful Book Sale

2011-03-29T15:05:00.001-04:00

Thanks to all of you who made this possibly the best book sale ever!

Fifth Annual Book Sale

2011-03-13T00:23:00.000-05:00

Book Sale

Breakfast With Rudolph

2010-12-29T23:35:00.003-05:00

We had a grand time. And we think the kids did too. :o)
But continuing problems with the cameras and photo paper feeding through the printer. Quite a few photos are still at the Daingerfield Public Library. Be sure to stop by for yours.

Don't Forget to Visit Rudolph!

2010-11-30T23:38:00.004-05:00

2010 Breakfast With Rudolph

Breakfast With Rudolph

2010-11-29T10:30:00.004-05:00

Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library cordially invite you to our second annual Breakfast With Rudolph.

Saturday, December 4
9 - 1 a.m.

A light fingerfood breakfast will be served as small children tell Rudolph what they would like for Christmas. Rudolph will make certain that Santa is informed.

Note: I assure you that at one time, we were once all small children. ;o)

Read a Book - Get Blown Away

2010-11-09T18:01:00.000-05:00

Book Review

2010-10-19T08:27:00.006-04:00

The Exile
by Diana Gabaldon

What a disappointment.

In 2013 the eighth installment of the Outlander series will be published. Three years away. That gives me time to reread the first seven books again...and maybe again.

The Daingerfield Public Library has the Outlander series in paperback, hardcover, and audio.

Fashion Show and Luncheon

2010-09-28T17:08:00.010-04:00

The most important things first. The FOOD!

Homemade Chicken Salad on croissants
Homemade Pimento Cheese on Italian, rye, or whole wheat Gazpacho Tortilla soup... ...with the trimmings Peach tea, unsweet tea, water Margie's Cookies and browniesServing line

Door Prizes donated by Mother & Daughter Beauty Salon, Something Special, Nancy Stirl, Sherry Ray, Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library

Then, what everyone was waiting for. The models.

Fashion Show and Luncheon

2010-09-24T21:40:00.002-04:00

See you at the Fashion Show and Luncheon tomorrow! PS I know how to spell "Gazpacho" now. ;o)

Fashion Show Poster

Book Reviews

2010-09-19T14:59:00.004-04:00

Wicked Appetite
by Janet Evanovich

What a piece of silly fluff. I wish
Janet...after reading just about all of her books, especially the Stephanie Plum series, I feel that we are on first name basis...would stop writing these between the numbers books. She is just wasting time and making all of her valued readers wait an unmercifully long time for the next Stephanie, Joseph, Ranger book!

I have a friend who won't read these books. She holds out for the next 'numbered' book in the Stephanie Plum series.

Without Mercy
by Lisa Jackson

This was a page turner. Shay, the 17 year old
sister on the verge of trouble, has been sent to a private school in the wilds of Oregon. Julia, the half sister with a different dad, lands a job teaching at the same school. Julia, better known as Jules, has to decide if the bad press the school has recently received is legitimate. In a very short time, she has to decide if something sinister is going on at the exclusive school for troubled teens. Throw an old boyfriend in the mix and you've got a mess.

Jackson writes a fast paced novel full of twists and turns. I was flabbergasted in the last chapter. I never guessed that...

Book Review

2010-09-14T10:17:00.004-04:00

Burn
by Nevada Barr

Nevada Barr has done it again. She has woven a tale of intrigue that connects Seattle, Washington and New Orleans, Louisiana in a most vile way.

Barr's description of post-Katrina New Orleans, the sounds, the smells, the people - both good and bad, is so intense that you feel as if you too are standing on Bourbon Street watching the procession as it passes.

The subject matter was hard for me to continue to read. Immersed in the wondering if Anna Pigeon and the person she helps are going to be able to find what they seek, I stayed with the book. There were times I had to set it aside and come back to it after convincing myself that this is a work of fiction. But I also had that niggling in the back of my mind that things like this actually happen in real life.

The Daingerfield Public Library has several of Nevada Barr's books available for library patrons to borrow.

Fashion Show and Luncheon

2010-09-10T22:33:00.007-04:00

Friends of the Daingerfield Public Libary would like to invite you to our first Fashion Show and Luncheon. Click for the FLYER.

Book Review

2010-09-07T16:28:00.004-04:00

The Endless Forest
by Sara Donati

All good things must come to an end.

In The Endless Forest, the final installment of the Bonner family in pioneer era Paradise NY, Donati ties up all the loose ends.

Donati gives the readers a vision of pioneer life that seems realistic.

The Daingerfield Public Library now has all six books in the series.

Please see the review on her first five books...scroll down the right sidebar and click on Sara Donati.

Book Reviews

2010-09-03T23:25:00.005-04:00

Goody! Goody! The Daingerfield Public Library received a new shipment of books. I am having fun!

Book #1
Lost Empire
by Clive Cussler
with Grant Blackwood

YES! After the so-so The Spy (http://friendsofthedaingerfieldpubliclibrary.blogspot.com/2010/06/book.html )Cussler redeems himself with Lost Empire. The second in the Fargo Adventures. I don't remember reading the first in the series, Spartan Gold. I've got to have a talk with the librarian...

Cussler and Blackwood take us on a wild trip with Sam and Remi Fargo through the wilds of Tanzania, Zanzibar, Madagascar, and Indonesia. They even through some Mexican Aztec history. How do the different locales connect? You have to read the book! I'm not going to spoil it for you.

Lost Empire is full of adventure, beautiful waters, dense jungles, and just enough thrill to hold your interest.

Clive Cussler is one of my favorite authors. His books have been reviewed here before. Check the right side bar and scroll down for his name to read previous reviews.

Then, in a much lighter tone:
Book #2

Maybe This Time
by Jennifer Crusie

I like Jennifer Crusie. I'm not too fond of paranormal. But this is cute. Who wouldn't want to live in a haunted English house moved stone by stone to the state of Ohio. The eccentric original home owner also dug a moat around the house.

Oh...I forgot to mention the ghosts that came with it. You should know that there are good ghosts...and not so good ghosts. Are there really such things as good ghosts?

Crusie writes entertaining quick reads. They lift you up and make you laugh.

The Daingerfield Public Library has several of Crusie's books in paperbook, just a few in hard cover. The library does not have all of her books:

Manhunting
Getting Rid of Bradley
Strange Bedpersons
What the Lady Wants
Charlie All Night
Anyone But You
Cinderella Deal
Trust Me On This
Tell Me Lies
Crazy For You
Welcome to Temptation
Fast Women
Faking It
Bet Me
Don't Look Down
Agnes and the Hit Man
Dogs and Goddesses
Wild Ride

Author Review

2010-07-25T20:41:00.007-04:00

The review I promised!

Sara Donati is the pen name for Rosina Lippi. This woman can write a book worth reading! She has written five books that I could hardly bear to put down, and I have no doubt that the sixth and final book in the series will be just as good!

If you like Diana Gabaldon, you will like Sara Donati. If you haven't read Gabaldon (her books have been reviewed here in the past, check the side bar on the right), read her first. Donati's series picks up in the time frame of history where Gabaldon's stops. However, you do not need to read Gabaldon's first...but I do highly recommend that you do so.

The series begins with Into the Wilderness, which begins the story of Elizabeth and Nathaniel. Each subsequent books fleshes out more of their family members and neighbors. Each is an adventure.

The series continues with
Dawn on a Distant Shore
Lake in the Clouds
Fire Along the Sky
Queen of Swords

The series ends with The Endless Forest which I have not yet read.

The Daingerfield Public Library has a copy of each book except for the last (which is why I have not yet read it but will as soon as a copy is received).

Book Review

2010-07-19T17:32:00.007-04:00

The other day I noticed that the library had a stack of new whodunit paperbacks. I picked up a couple. Don't bother with this one.

Reel Murder
by Mary Kennedy

For the life of me, I can not figure out why someone was trying to warn her off. The main character in the book, Maggie Walsh - a radio talk show psychologist, does not investigate a murder case. She delves into listening to gossip. That's it! She doesn't really ask questions. She thinks about whodunit in the privacy of her home.

For the murderer to think that the psychologist is getting close to finding out who the murderer is, the murderer would have to be clairvoyant.

This book just did not make much sense.

But, hold your horses! I am now reading a series of books by a 'new to me' author that should have a positive review!

The Day the Angels Cried

2010-06-25T14:31:00.004-04:00

Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library hosted a book signing for former Daingerfield resident, Larry Linam.From his website: http://www.thedaytheangelscried.com/
"The Day the Angels Cried tells the story of an event that made history in the United States of America on June 22, 1980 when a gunman entered the worship services of the First Baptist Church of Daingerfield, Texas. In a matter of minutes, five people lay dead and ten others wounded with hundreds of innocent people wondering if they might be next to face the horror of death at the hand of a madman. For Larry Linam, it was a day that changed his life forever. It was during this worship service that he lost his first born child, Mary Regina Linam, his seven year old daughter."

Book Review

2010-06-19T18:01:00.004-04:00

The Wild Zone
by Joy Fielding

It starts with a joke and a bet and accelerates from there. Three guys in a bar. Pretty much, 'Nuff said.'

At times you want to slap all three of the men. You wonder if they can get any stupider. I am sure you already know the answer.

Then, add three women to the mix.

After you've been reading for a while, you will figure it out. But the last chapter was quite a surprise for me. I did not see it coming.

I did not yawn once with this book...at least not after my Saturday afternoon 10 minute power nap.

Book

2010-06-11T21:40:00.004-04:00

The Spy
by Clive Cussler and Justin Scott

Y A W N zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
This was definitely a book that I could put down and go to bed when the time came. I LIKE Clive Cussler. I like the character, Isaac Bell, in this series which takes place in America in 1908. I like Cussler's/Scott's descriptions of turn of the century New York and other points in the US. I thoroughly enjoyed the sights and sounds of traveling across the country by rail.

However, it did not take long for me to figure out who the bad man was. It didn't take long for me to figure out...well...can't tell you that. It didn't take long for me to figure out the redhead(s) and... Hmmm...don't need to mention that either. I just kept reading trying to figure out when Isaac Bell was going to figure it all out...hopefully before the book ended.

I certainly hope that Cussler's next book is better...

Book

2010-04-17T21:22:00.004-04:00

Deliver Us From Evil
by David Baldacci

Talk about a page turner! I could hardly put this down to eat or sleep. And after reading some parts...forget about the sleep.

A vigilante group and an official yet unofficial CIA-type organization are after the same man for two different purposes and in two different manners. One organization intends to mete out justice now...the other intends to turn the hunted over to the proper authorities. Which one finds the villain first? How large will the number of casualties be?

Baldacci throws in so many twists and turns and introduces many seemingly innocuous characters that you may be surprised about who did what at the end. (Bragging here...but I figured out one of the big "who is it?" way before the answer was provided.)

He also included some very detailed means of torture. If you think waterboarding is extreme torture, be sure to skip Chapter 37. Definitely do not read it 30 minutes before bedtime!

Book Review

2010-04-10T19:47:00.004-04:00

Sisters & Husbands
by Connie Briscoe

I laughed out loud. These three sisters are a hoot! Briscoe writes a serious yet funny tale about three sisters and the men in their lives...the husbands (which one is about to become an ex?) and the about-to-be-new husband.

Touching on the reality of the high rate of divorce and whether the marriage commitment is worth it, Briscoe examines all sides.

I had to skip a few paragraphs of sex scenes. Okay. I admit it. I read one of them. Even though I laughed, I did not include that laugh in my first sentence. I also didn't care for some of the language, but it was infrequent.

I've got to go to the Daingerfield Public Library Monday looking for more of Connie Briscoe's books.

Book Review

2010-04-04T20:21:00.010-04:00

The Silent Sea
by Clive Cussler
with Jack Du Brul

The Silent Sea is another installment of the Oregon Files with Juan Cabrillo. Cussler and Du Brul have once again combined forces in this action packed land and sea adventure.

Once again, Cussler draws the reader into his novel. You can almost smell the salt water and feel the freezing water in The Silent Sea.

Be sure to check out our previous Author Review.
http://friendsofthedaingerfieldpubliclibrary.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-review.html

Author Review

2010-03-23T11:08:00.005-04:00

Lurlene McDaniel writes books for teens; aka, Young Adults. They have been touted as being inspirational. I found them terribly, terribly depressing. The first of her books that I read was about a teenager with a rare cancer. It delves into suicide, assisted suicide, and euthanasia.

Many of her other books deal with other non-curable cancers, auto accidents that leave the driver in a vegetative state, etc.

Oh, lest I forget, how about the new teacher who dresses like a sex-pot and sets her sights on one of her freshman students? Of course all of her male students have their eye on her. She seduces the selected student. Eventually, the relationship is outed. I expected the book to deal with the growth of the boy as he gets past the incident. Instead, three years later, after he graduates, becomes an adult...he looks her up. The book leaves no doubt that he becomes the predator.

Lurlene McDaniel's website: http://www.randomhouse.com/features/lurlene/

Parents, It is not the purpose or job of your public library to become a censor. You have that job. Please be aware of what your children are reading. Read some of the books that they are bringing home. An honest, sincere discussion can help to put books like these in their proper perspective.

The Daingerfield Public Library has a few of McDaniel's books, but not all of them.

2010 Book Sale is History

2010-03-22T12:18:00.004-04:00

Book Sale 2010

2010-03-19T19:42:00.002-04:00

Hope to see you at the Annex Saturday, March 20, for our annual book sale! The sale officially starts at 10 a.m. but many of us will be there by 9.

Book Review

2010-03-07T22:40:00.008-05:00

I've read several really cute Avon romances. One by an English author, Sophie Kinsella www.sophiekinsella.co.uk . I love the British slang. Matter of fact, I've been gobsmacked.

For some reason they all think that they have to have one torrid sex scene. I just skip a couple of paragraphs or pages and get on with the story. Speaking of torrid sex scenes. I've started back quilting and listening to audio books. Sandra Brown's Best Kept Secrets is a very good book.

Except for the torrid sex scenes. As a rule, I can only remember her writing one scene per book, but (as mentioned above) I skip them so may have skipped more than one. In Best Kept Secrets, I think that there were three. Since I was listening, I couldn't flip past the stuff. I had no idea how funny they were! One in particular I laughed out loud. The necessary body parts are called by nicknames. Husband and I discussed it and nearly had each other laughing so hard we almost fell out of our chairs.

So...other than the 'sex' scenes, this book will keep you interested in figuring out who-done-it.

Condolences to our Librarian

2010-02-15T15:17:00.001-05:00

With sorrowful hearts, we offer our prayers for comfort to Earlene and the rest of her family.

Funeral services for Beulah L. Wilson, 89, of Daingerfield, will be at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 17 at Reeder Davis Chapel in Hughes Springs. Burial will be in Hughes Springs Cemetery.

Mrs. Wilson will lie in state on Tuesday afternoon and evening at the funeral home and the family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m.

Mrs. Wilson died Feb. 14, 2010. She was born October 1, 1920 to the parents of O.W. and Annie Lou Stevens. She was a Baptist and loved to fish, cook, dance and quilt.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Bruce and Cathey Wilson of Daingerfield; daughter Linda Powell of Daingerfield, daughter and son-in-law Beckle and Bill Kirkley of Gilmer; daughter and son-in-law Earlene and Robert Walton of Daingerfield, sons-in-law Richard Williams of Jenkins and Bill Honea of McKinney; brother and sister-in-law J.W. and Beckie Stevens of Fort Worth; sisters-in-law Nell Stevens of Daingerfield and Mackie Stevens of Winnie; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death was her husband Henry Earl Wilson and daughters Carolyn Williams and Wonda Honea.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association and the Cancer Foundation.

Annual Book Sale Scheduled

2010-02-07T00:14:00.002-05:00

Saturday, March 20, 2010
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Courthouse Annex
Broadnax
Hwys. 259/49 north

Paperbacks 50 cents each
Hardcover $1.00 each

We may have some video tapes too.

See you there!

Author Review

2010-02-01T12:32:00.009-05:00

I have found a 'new' author!

In just a couple of months, several boxes of books were donated to the Daingerfield Public Library. Books have been sorted, some to go on the shelf...others for the annual book sale in March.

I took several books by Michael McGarrity home to read. He writes a series about retired Santa Fe police detective Kevin Kerney. The author had a career in criminal justice and knows his subject.

McGarrity takes the reader through the trials of an officer trying to do his job facing the hazards of his career and the pitfalls in his private life. His vivid descriptions of New Mexico paint a picture of their own.

To learn more about Michael McGarrity and his writing, visit his website: http://www.michaelmcgarrity.com/

Titles in this series include:
Tularosa
Mexican Hat
Hermit's Peak
Serpent Gate
The Judas Judge
Under the Color of the Law
The Big Gamble
Everyone Dies
Slow Kill
Nothing But Trouble
Death Song
Dead or Alive

The Daingerfield Public Library does not have every title. Of the books in the collection, some are paperback and some are hard cover.

Valentine Day Raffle

2010-01-28T15:22:00.008-05:00

What a loving couple! For your chance at this charming kissie bear pair, stop by the Daingerfield Public Library. Ask the librarian for a ticket each time you visit the library. One winning ticket will be drawn Friday, February 12 at 4 p.m.

No charge to enter. Need not be present to win.

Gift provided by Friends member, Vivian.

Catering for B&PW

2010-01-21T17:02:00.004-05:00

Once again we had the opportunity to cater for the Daingerfield Business & Professional Women.

Since we are still in the middle of Winter, we decorated with snowmen and snowflakes.
The menu was
Easy Pork Loin with natural juices and Tammy's Special Sauce
Wild Rice and Mushrooms
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Green Bean Bundles Undone
Apple Salad
Coffee and Tea
Orange Cake
Lime and Orange Sherbet with extra crispy Sugar Cookies

Book Review

2010-01-06T00:09:00.004-05:00

Steve McQueen King of Cool
Tales of a Lurid Life
by Darwin Porter

I think I'm going to quit reading biographies. After about 150 pages I decided that I'd had enough of this one. "IF" we are to believe only a portion of what Porter wrote...what a horrid life! However, Porter did not need to be so explicit.

After a bit of flipping through the book, finding ads for other books Porter has written in the back of this book, then doing a bit of checking on the internet...I realized that Porter writes for the shock value. And, in my opinion, many of his works if not pornographic, are border-line pornographic.

Book Review

2010-01-03T16:06:00.005-05:00

I, Alex Cross

by James Patterson

Good book. Yet another great installment in the Alex Cross series. Fast-paced. Well-written. Not too over the gory mark. I have found that my preference is rather like watching CSI. After the fact, I can accept. I just don't want to read or hear about it while the evil deed is performed. Still...there are some sections I could've done without.

To find out what James Patterson has to say about this book, click on this link:

http://www.jamespatterson.com/

Other Patterson book reviews on this blog: http://friendsofthedaingerfieldpubliclibrary.blogspot.com/2008/11/book-review_20.html

http://friendsofthedaingerfieldpubliclibrary.blogspot.com/2009/07/book-review.html

2009-12-14T09:38:00.006-05:00

Brightness Falls
by Jay McInerney

I am on page 41 (plus the two page prologue) after three days' reading. I find that I would much rather watch television commercials than read this book. Or be found supine as an odalisque watching soap operas and eating bon-bons. snicker

However, when I checked Amazon.com...the majority of the 21 reviewers liked it! (Twelve reviewers gave it 5 stars!) What to do? What to do? Try to muddle through until it gets interesting? Probably not. But I may try it one more time. As I read more and liked less, I initially thought that I would read to page 100 before calling it quits. Perhaps I'll still try to shoot for that number before returning it to the library.

Why don't I like it? I don't know. Perhaps it is the subject matter...a barely 30-something year old yuppie couple living in New York in the 1980s. I mean...like WHAT do I have in common with them to start with?!

Breakfast With Rudolph

2009-12-09T10:26:00.010-05:00

We had a blast!

Our first Breakfast With Rudolph has been deemed a 100% success! (We won't talk about operator error with the camera and photo printing. Apologizes to those of you whose photos we were unable to print.)

For everyone else...enjoy!

Of course we had to get in on the act...

Book Review

2009-12-06T15:33:00.006-05:00

Why My Third Husband Will Be a Dog
The Amazing Adventures of an Ordinary Woman
by Lisa Scottoline

First, this is NOT a book bashing men. Scottoline calls her exes "Thing One" and "Thing Two," but she really does not go into detail. She is more into telling the reader how great her family is and how wonderful her dogs are.

You should go to the library and check this book out. Read it. I knew that Scottoline writes mysteries. I did not know that she also writes a column in The Philadelphia Enquirer called "Chick Wit." This book is a compilation of some of her columns.

Each chapter is a short story in itself, but it also chronologically follows her life. She voices her opinion on family, pets, bras and panties and pantyhose. Right! An ordinary woman's life.

Books written by Lisa Scottoline:
Look Again, 2009
Lady Killer, 2008*
Daddy's Girl, 2007
Dirty Blonde, 2006
Devils' Corner, 2005
Killer Smile, 2004*
Dead Ringer, 2003*
Courting Trouble, 2003*
The Vendetta Defense, 2001*
Moment of Truth, 2000*
Mistaken identity, 1999*
Rough Justice, 1998*
Legal Tender, 1997*
Running From the Law, 1996
Final Appeal, 1995
Everywhere That Mary Went, 1994*
*Denotes books with characters from Rosato & Associates.
Some but not all books are available at the Daingerfield Public Library.

For another Scottoline book review on this blog, check this link:

http://friendsofthedaingerfieldpubliclibrary.blogspot.com/2009/04/book-review.html

Breakfast With Rudolph

2009-11-24T10:44:00.003-05:00

Santa has given Rudolph the Red-nose Reindeer permission to visit our library before they pull their all night present delivery. Rudolph should be resting, but he could not turn down our invitation.

Bring your small children and grandchildren to the Daingerfield Public Library Saturday, December 5 any time between 9 and 11 a.m.

A light breakfast snack will be served complete with hot chocolate and apple juice for the children. (We will also have coffee and hot tea for the parents/grandparents.)

You can have a 4x6" photo of your child taken with Rudolph for a minimum charge.

See you there!

Catering Post

2009-11-18T16:48:00.007-05:00

We catered an event yesterday evening...our second for the local Business & Professional Women. Here we are Monday evening excited to have the decorations in place and the tables set.

Another shot with the photographer swapping out so that she could be in a photo too. We didn't get a photo of everyone... some had already left before the camera was remembered.

Everyone brought their Thanksgiving decorations. It's amazing how everything pulled together and made a very presentable show.

If we were feeding a group of men, you better believe there wouldn't be any table linens or china! We would stack the paper plates and provide plenty of paper napkins. When we serve ladies, we do like to go fancy.

Several of us have been shopping garage sales and resale shops. We have acquired several nice sets of dishes - most china. We've also found table linens at estate sales. Sometimes we bring in a few items to fill in when we run short. This event, we needed only bring flatware service for 6.

Some of the tablecloths came from our homes.

The banquet table presents a bit of a problem. No one has a tablecloth long enough. We merely covered each end with a white tablecloth and spread the autumn cloth across the center.

The menu...It is a bit hard to read. Relish tray, turkey breast, cornbread dressing, giblet gravy, cranberry sauce, green bean bundles, mashed potatoes, candied sweet potatoes, vegetable medley,two different fruit salads, butter braid bread, (dessert is listed a few photos down).

Yes, we still have cookbooks available for purchase! Check the sidebar on the right. Recipes for some of the dishes we served came out of our cookbook. Recipes were provided for some of the other dishes with holes punched so that they would fit in the cookbook.

Some like it hot...our coffee gurus.

Some like it cold...after all this is Texas!

What is a dinner without good food?

Cheesecake, Pecan Pie, German Chocolate Cake, Pumpkin Trifle

Believe me...the leftovers were delicious!

Working Hard

2009-11-08T22:11:00.006-05:00

Even though we had a wet and fairly cold day, once again we set up under an awning to sell drinks and cookbooks at Daingerfield Days. We always ask to be set up beside the chili cookoff...preferably beside the spiciest chili. That logic hasn't failed us yet.

Our cookbooks are still selling. Since our inventory is happily decreasing, if you intend to purchase a cookbook, you need to do so NOW!

Last year we started working the concession stands for the volleyball games and the Thursday night football games. Once again this year, we jumped right in. Many of the football games were rained out...and most of us were happy about that!

However, we are not through. We have been asked to cover six or seven basketball games between now and early February.

Upcoming events:

We will be catering a dinner for the Business & Professional Women before Thanksgiving.

Best event!!! Keep checking back for further information, but be sure to mark you calendars for 9 a.m. Saturday, December 5. This event will be for the children.

Book Review

2009-11-05T15:02:00.007-05:00

Blood Sins
by Kay Hooper

Did I ever make a mistake picking up this book! I guess I have not read Kay Hooper's work before. I very quickly realized that this had to do with psychics. Okay. I can handle a little of that.

On page 102 after reading,

"Tessa sat up in bed with a gasp, her heart pounding. Oh, my God. He was feeding off them.

"He's a--a %#&*@ psychic vampire."

Okay. That's enough for me.

Another point of view. Come on Sherry, it's FICTION! Kay Hooper's books are interesting, fast paced, and never, never boring. She has been a favorite author of mine for years. The Bishop Trilogies are different for sure but they are very very good.
Earlene

Book Review

2009-11-03T22:17:00.007-05:00

The Time of My Life
by Patrick Swayze & Lisa Niemi

In a twist, a patron of the library loaned this book to the librarian.

YES! This is it! What a beautifully well-written book.

I laughed. My eyes became misty. This was REAL life not just so-called facts gleaned from recorded interviews reported in gossip magazine style.

Written entirely from Patrick Swayze's point of view with memory proddings from his wife, Lisa Niemi (according to the prologue)...this autobiography gives insight to Patrick Swayze the son, husband, dancer, actor, man...the good and the bad.

Definitely worth your time.

The Daingerfield Public Library will have its own copy later this week. I also advised the librarian that an audio book is available with Patrick Swayze performing it himself.

Book Reviews

2009-10-31T17:47:00.006-04:00

Biography time!

A "You gotta be kidding!"

one last dance
Patrick Swayze
by Wendy Leigh

I so looked forward to reading this biography. I have videos of Dirty Dancing and Ghost and have seen several of Patrick Swayze's movie. I have fallen in love with his and Lisa Niemi's love story. What a beautiful romance.

Then to read something so shoddily thrown together to capitalize on Swayze's illness and (at the time the book was written) upcoming death to pancreatic cancer.

In the first chapter...the title of the song mentioned is NOT "Down on the Range." It is "HOME on the Range."

Leigh made another two errors in her abbreviated version of Dirty Dancing. A reviewer on Amazon.com also mentioned an error in Leigh's version of Ghost. But I refuse to reread any portion of the book to locate it.

The writing by Leigh reminds me of the quality of writing in the gossip rags. She very quickly pulled together whatever interviews she could find of Patrick Swayze along with quotes from his childhood friends who took dance lessons from his mother. To me the quotes were more of a "he said, she said, he said" thing.

My question is...with the errors that were extremely easy for me to catch (along with other reviewers on Amazon) how many of Leigh's so-called facts...are in fact true?

Go ahead and read this. It won't take long to muddle through it. But wait until someone releases an authorized biography of Patrick Swayze before you believe everything in Leigh's version.

On the other hand...

An American Rebel: The Life of Clint Eastwood
by Marc Eliot

Be sure to read and absorb this book. Being the child - ahem - that I claim to be, I just vaguely remember the cute Rowdy Yates from the television series Rawhide. But the quiet serious Man with No Name in the 'Spaghetti Westerns' I do remember well. And who can forget the oft repeated phrase from Dirty Harry, "Make my day."

Eliot's extremely well-written book is so easy to read. I have no doubt that if you like Clint Eastwood, you will enjoy this book!

The Daingerfield Public Library has an extensive biography section. Be sure to visit!

Book Review

2009-09-24T16:59:00.006-04:00

How many times have you purchased a cookbook or checked one out from your local library yet find only one or two recipes...or horror!...no recipes that you like? Ever seen one of those cookbooks that every recipe calls for two sticks of butter or no butter at all? Gooey, greasy or blah, bland. What about those recipes that call for ingredients that are not available in your area, but you have absolutely no idea what they are? I have had it to happen so many times that I normally don't even look at cookbooks any more.

Have I got a few surprises for you!

Surprise #1: Debbie Macomber writes novels. She was approached by Harlequin to make a cookbook to take her readers inside the kitchens of Cedar Cove - the fictional location of one of her series of novels. Whenever families and friends gather, food is a major part of most gatherings.

Many of the recipes not only had me literally drooling, but imagine my surprise when I realized that they were just down home cooking!

Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove Cookbook is definitely a cookbook you will want to spend time browsing through - and making notes!

Surprise #2...YES! I have yet another cookbook to recommend!

Reader's Digest has issued Taste of Home Casseroles, Slow Cooker, & Soups - 3 cookbooks in 1. I mentioned "down home" above. This book continues the same line of cooking. Real down home food with real down home ingredients...most of which you will already have in your kitchen cabinets/pantry/larder...you get the idea!

Surprise #3...By now, this should not surprise you.

We still have a few copies of Cooking With Friends available. If you don't want to miss out on this fabulous cookbook from friends and patrons of the Daingerfield Public Library, now is the time to buy for your friends and family for Christmas. One of the library's patrons purchased one of our cookbooks to give to her son who lives, "up north." She reported that he was so excited to have a Texas cookbook.

Check the sidebar on the right for instructions on ordering your very own copy!

In addition to Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove Cookbook and Taste of Home Casseroles, Slow Cooker, & Soups, the Daingerfield Public Library has many more cookbooks available to our patrons for checkout.

Book Review

2009-09-20T20:11:00.006-04:00

An Echo in the Bone
Diana Gabaldon

The seventh book in the Outlander series has left me wanting more.

I never dreamed that I would be anticipating Gabaldon's next installment in her Outlander series. Time travel. P'shaw.

I love it! I love the story. I love the history. I love the characters. A teacher I talked to a couple of years ago said that, "Everyone loves Jamie." Well. She is so right!

Gabaldon's Outlander novels are not quick reads. An Echo in the Bone is 820 pages of "I do not want to put it down." I read what I could Friday evening and begrudgingly set it aside to go to bed. Saturday morning I put a roast in the slow cooker for supper and sent the husband to town for a hamburger for lunch. I got up long enough to get a yogurt and a spoon and sat back down to continue reading. Bedtime came too soon. Today I did not even turn on Sunday Morning. I read all day and finally finished at about 5 p.m.

I finished! Now I have to wait another two to three years before the next book in the series is published.

Gabaldon weaves the lives of a 20th century British nurse with an 18th century Highland warrior in the historical setting beginning in the mid-1700s. Having Scottish ancestors I have enjoyed her condensed history of Scotland. She continues the story of Jamie and Claire...but I don't want to tell you too much in case you haven't read any of her books.

The Daingerfield Public Library has all of her Outlander series with the exception of The Outlandish Companion (nonfiction):
Outlander
Dragonfly in Amber
Voyager
Drums of Autumn
The Fiery Cross
A Breath of Snow and Ashes

The library also has some of the Lord John series - Lord John being introduced in the Outlander series.

Author Review

2009-09-10T09:49:00.009-04:00

I have found a new author! He's been around awhile, but I've just recently read his work. Robert Crais writes a series of books featuring Elvis Cole, PI (Private Investigator). You'll have to read to find out why Elvis is named 'Elvis.'

Crais is enjoyable to read. His writing is creative and imaginative without being as graphic as many authors have become. He has given Elvis a multi-faceted personality. Elvis is self-deprecating, funny, and intelligent.

Crais has 11 books in the Elvis Cole series and a few other stand-alone novels. He has also started a new series featuring Elvis' partner, Joe Pike. These have just got to be as good as the Elvis Cole series!

The Daingerfield Public Library has just a few of Crais' Elvis Cole books in the paperback section.

Elsie Review a Recipe

2009-08-10T11:58:00.007-04:00

Elsie over at Elsie's Life and Stuff won one of our cookbooks when her name was picked on Keep You In Stitches' blog giveaway. Elsie has blogged about the recipe she tried.

Go visit Elsie's blog, http://elsielogsherblogs.blogspot.com/2009/08/thanks-to-friends-of-daingerfield.html

Author Review

2009-08-09T12:23:00.006-04:00

Have you run out of things to read? Get thee to the children's section!

I read Gary Paulsen's Hatchett when my son was in junior high. Recently my mother said, "You've got to read this. It is laugh out loud funny." It is! I nearly rolled in the floor laughing. I passed it on to my sister-in-law. We laughed and giggled about it after she finished. Even now, I am smiling at the antics these two boys came up with one summer. This book will take you back to a much simpler time...a time that will make you wonder how anyone survived being a child!

Bass Reeves? Who is this man? Why didn't we hear anything about him when we were in school? He actually lived. He is a legend in Oklahama dating back to the days when Oklahoma was called Indian Territory. Former escaped slave turned Marshall?! Why didn't we hear anything about him when we were in school!

By all means...be sure to pick up and read Hatchet, Bryan's Winter, Bryan's Return, and other books written by Gary Paulsen.

Giveaway Winner

2009-07-30T10:05:00.002-04:00

The entries are:

1 battatter
2 SY
3 Gloria
4 tisme
5 malleycc
6 malleycc
7 holee
8 holee
9 karenfae
10 judy
11 freeindeed
12 Brooxie
13 Shogun
14 Cindy

The winner via a random number generator is...

Enter a lower limit: 1
Enter an upper limit: 14

Random Number: 5

malleycc

Congratulations malleycc!!

Thank each of you for visiting our blog and entering our giveaway. We hope you continue to visit. If you like to read, we have book and author reviews. Just scroll down the sidebar on the right and click on the tags that interest you.

Who Are You?

2009-07-23T08:23:00.002-04:00

If you comment on the giveaway post as Anonymous, we don't know who you are. If you do not have a blog, you can e-mail us for a chance at the cookbook.

friendsofdpl@yahoo.com

Don't miss a chance to win!

(Please leave all comments to enter on the original giveaway post below.

1 Year Anniversary Giveaway

2009-07-22T08:59:00.005-04:00

We started blogging for the Daingerfield Public Library one year ago in June. With the busy summer that we've had, we just haven't had time to celebrate.

Let the fun begin!

For a chance to win a copy of Cooking With Friends, leave a comment. For a second chance, post about the giveaway on your blog.
The giveaway will end Thursday, July 30. A random number generator will be used to select the winner. Be sure to leave your comment!

Jungle in the Park

2009-07-20T10:31:00.006-04:00

Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library hosted the closing program for the summer reading program. Approximately 70 enjoyed games, crafts, and jungle food; live worms in a bed, beetle wings, ants, jungle juice and other jungle delicacies.

Announcements

2009-07-14T14:33:00.003-04:00

What a wonderful summer! Events at the Daingerfield Public Library have followed one after the other.

The Summer Reading Program Wrap-Up Party will be at the City Park on Saturday. Be sure to check in with the library. A head count is needed for the crafts.

If you've visited in blogland very much at all, you may have run across a Blog Giveaway. We are going to have one of our own! What will it be? Hmmmm.... You will have to check back some time next week for information. We want to get finished with the children's events first.

Keep in touch!

Mr. Slick Entertains

2009-07-13T17:06:00.005-04:00

This summer's entertainment was provided courtesy of SWEPCO, Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library, and the Daingerfield Public Library. We thank you for your support in the children of our community and their futures.

Summer Programs

2009-07-06T21:07:00.005-04:00

This is your very last opportunity to see one of the summer programs presented by the Daingerfield Public Library.

Slick Jugglers
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Morris County Annex
Hwy. 259/49 N
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
http://www.slickjugglers.com/

Book Review

2009-07-05T17:08:00.008-04:00

Swimsuit

James Patterson & Maxine Paetro

What I think about this book in one word...

Gory.

James Patterson is an excellent author. His books are well-written and definitely keep you riveted to your seat. I may never read another.

This one is gory. I would read a chapter or two. Put it down and go away. Return and pick it up again. I had no trouble putting it down to go to bed ... ANYTHING to get away from it. Just thinking about it again makes me shudder.

As I said. It was well-written. I wanted to know how it ended. So, I stuck it out...to the last page. It ended. Finally.

I will not recommend this book to my friends. One friend in particular I told her not to read it and told her nothing about it...except 'Gory.'

Zooniversity Photos

2009-06-25T15:08:00.004-04:00

Book Review

2009-06-22T13:27:00.004-04:00

American Thighs
The Sweet Potato Queens' Guide to Preserving Your Assets
Jill Conner Browne

Jill Conner Browne is THE Sweet Potato Queen. She is the founder of The Sweet Potato Queen 'organization. (Read about TSPQ here: http://www.sweetpotatoqueens.com/ ) It's sort of like the Red Hat Society only...only...only a whole lot more gaudy. (And I've seen quite a few gaudy Red Hat ladies... ;o)

Browne is a humorist...with a somewhat warped and one-side sense of humor. In this, her eighth book, she gives advice on - among other things - growing older. While I find Browne hilariously laugh-out-loud funny, you need to be aware that she has peppered what I term foul language throughout her book. (You'll get the idea when you read her list of titles below.)

If you read this, but get fed up with the first couple of chapters, turn to the last two chapters. They are the reward for reading the entire book and, to me, the best part of the book.

Other books include:

The Sweet Potato Queens' Book of Love

God Save the Sweet Potato Queens

The Sweet Potato Queens' Big-A** Cookbook (and Financial Planner)

The Sweet Potato Queens' Field Guide to Men: Every Man I Love Is Either Married, Gay, or Dead

The Sweet Potato Queens' Wedding Planner/Divorce Guide

The Sweet Potato Queens' First Big-A** Novel: Stuff We Didn't Actually Do but Could Have, and May Yet (with Karin Gillespie)

The Sweet Potato Queens' Guide to Raising Children For Fun and Profit

The Daingerfield Public Library may not have all titles.

Zooniversity Comes to Town

2009-06-19T15:35:00.003-04:00

We had some camera problems...more photos will follow!

Summer Program #2

2009-06-12T11:17:00.004-04:00

Just one week from today Zooniversity will bring Native Texas Critters to town.

Join us Friday, June 19, 9 - 9:45 a.m., at the Morris County Annex (next door to the Courthouse).

Tuesday 10 a.m. Story Time

2009-06-12T11:12:00.002-04:00

Come join us Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. for Story Time.

Story Time

2009-06-09T16:20:00.003-04:00

Join us at the Daingerfield Public Library every Tuesday morning 10 - 10:30 for Story Time! Invitation goes out to any child who enjoys having a book read to them. Last date is Tuesday, July 14.

Bring your children, grandchildren, the neighbor kids!

Our last summer event will be the wrap-up Party in the Park on Saturday, July 18. This party is for all Summer Reading Program participants ONLY. You must be signed up and reading in order to be invited to the party!

KIDS! Grab Mom or Dad. Or Grandmother or Grandfather. Bring them with their drivers license and something to verify address and phone number (phone bill or cell phone bill) to the Library. Get a library card and register NOW for the Summer Reading Program!

Mr. Jazzz Entertains in a BIG Way!

2009-06-07T13:18:00.006-04:00

Once again Mr. Jazzz entertains a crowd of young and old(er) alike!

If you missed your chance to sign up for a library card, please visit the Daingerfield Public Library at 207 Jefferson in Daingerfield. Please bring your parent with their driver's license and a telephone or cell phone bill showing your current address and phone number.

Kick -Off Party

2009-06-05T09:18:00.002-04:00

You are invited to join the Daingerfield Public Library's Summer Reading Program for ages 0-17. Prizes, special reading times at the Library, crafts, and other special events are on the calendar JUST FOR YOU!

The Kick-Off Party will be Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. until noon at the Daingerfield City park.

The morning will be filled with kite making, Mr. Jazzz, and other fun activities. Bring your family and a lawn chair or blanket to toss on the ground and enjoy the fun.

In case of bad weather we will be at the Fire Station on Highway 11W.

If you have any questions, please call the Library at 903-645-2823.

Book Review

2009-06-01T09:25:00.008-04:00

The Second Opinion
Michael Palmer

Wow! That's about all I can say about Michael Palmer's The Second Opinion. I don't believe that I have ever read Palmer, but I will in the future. Since this recent release is his fourteenth book, I have a lot of reading to catch up on.

I could not put the book down. When I had to stop to prepare supper last night, I did so grudgingly. My husband eventually went to bed. I did not follow until 11:30 p.m. With a surprise ending for me. I did not suspect who was behind it all and was very surprised when the culprit was revealed.

In addition to being a well-written book, Palmer delved into the world of Asperger's Syndrome, a mild form of autism. Knowing someone with AS, the book lead me back to the internet for a bit more research. However, the book is not about AS, it's about...well, why don't you find out for yourself?

Other books by Palmer are:

The Sisterhood
Side Effects
Flashback
Extreme Measures
Natural Causes
Silent Treatment
Critical Judgment
Miracle Cure
The Patient
Fatal
The Society
The Fifth Vial
The First Patient

The Daingerfield Public Library may not have all titles.

Book Reviews

2009-05-10T10:10:00.005-04:00

Time again for reviews on two totally different books.

Tea Time for the Traditionally Built
by Alexander McCall Smith

If you have not begun reading the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Novel series by Smith, you must do so. A charming insight into life in Botswana, I find myself smiling and shaking my head as private inspector Mma Ramostwe and her assistant Mma Makutsi solve cases for their clients. The two ladies also have drama in their own lives.

While you are visiting the Daingerfield Public Library, be sure to check the audio book selections. The library has one of the books on CD. I highly recommend checking it out so that you can hear the pronunciation of the names and some of the words in the dialect spoken in Botswana as well as the cadence of the speech.

A wonderfully relaxing read.

Books in the series which may or may not be available at the Daingerfield Public Library:

The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Tears of the Giraffe

Morality for Beautiful Girls

The Kalahari Typing School for Men

The Full Cupboard of Life

In the Company of Cheerful Ladies

Blue Shoes and Happiness

The Good Husband of Zebra Drive

The Miracle at Speedy Motors

Smith has other works to his credit.

The Dark Tide

Andrew Gross

I listened to this audio book totally enrapt while quilting, and when I tired of quilting, I just sat back and listened. This 11 1/2 hour audio book never had a lull in the action. Gross involves his readers in the drama and suspense.

My only suggestion is "do not listen to the book after supper." You may find yourself still listening at midnight.

Get Ready, Get Set, GO to our Summer Reading Program

2009-05-08T20:59:00.006-04:00

Once again we have invited Mr. Jazzz to perform for us. Mr. Jazzz will be at the kick-off for our Summer Reading Program. He performed for us last year. The adults enjoyed his show just as much as the children.

So, kids! Be sure to bring your parents along!

Daingerfield City Park
Saturday, June 6, 2009
10:30 - 11:00 a.m.

http://www.misterjazzz.com

For our second program, we welcome Zooniversity.

Friday, June 19, 2009
Morris County Annex
Hwy. 259/49 N
9:00 - 9:45 a.m.

http://www.zooniversity.org/

Our last program of the summer will be Slick Jugglers.

Thursday, July 9, 2009
Morris County Annex
Hwy. 259/49 N
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

http://www.slickjugglers.com/

Book Reviews

2009-04-26T20:29:00.004-04:00

I just finished reading my second Emilie Richards book. I like her. Both of these books deal with sisters.

The Parting Glass tells the story of an Irish-American family. Richards reaches into the past...back to the days of prohibition and how it affected the family owned pub...and sending the three sisters, one after the other, to an elderly relative in Ireland.

Sister's Choice (part of the Shenandoah Album novels) is not only the title of one of Richards' novels, it is also the name of a quilt pattern. The librarian knows of my love for quilts and recommended this book. A good title doesn't necessarily make a good book...but it is. Richards delves into the lives of two sisters as the younger sister tries to make amends for mistakes she made.

In addition to the Shenandoah Album novels and a handful of 'stand alone' novels, Emilie Richards has also written numoerous romance novels. I noticed on her website that she writes a mystery series, Ministry is Murder.

I will have to check the shelves of the Daingerfield Public Library for more of Richards' books.

Summer Programs

2009-04-25T22:46:00.002-04:00

Watch for more information about the kick-off party for the Summer Reading Program. Date is Saturday, June 1, at the City Park.

Book Review

2009-04-22T23:30:00.004-04:00

I've read two really good books lately. Both are fairly new to the Daingerfield Public Library.

Look Again
Lisa Scottoline

Suppose you adopted a precious little boy. You went through all the legal channels. Two years later, in your mail, you see a Missing Child notice. The missing child's age progression looks like your child.

What would you do?

Scottoline handles the emotional ups and downs of the mother and the silent hell in which she finds herself. Unable to confide in anyone, she tries to handle the problem and the fallout all alone. This page turner was hard for me to put down and walk away from until I had turned the last page and closed the cover.

True Colors
Kristin Hannah

This reminded me of the song Sisters (sung by Marjorie Reynolds and Virginia Dale) in the movie Holiday Inn (1942). (I love old movies, don't you?)

Sisters, sisters
There were never such devoted sisters,
...
Lord help the mister who comes between me and my sister
And Lord help the sister, who comes between me and my man.

This was cute. At times heart-wrenching. Three sisters equal three story lines, but they don't get bogged down. And let us not forget about the old curmudgeon dad and the way each daughter views him.

Both Scottoline and Hannah have several books to their credit. Many, but not all, can be found at the Daingerfield Public Library

Got Caught Reading #3

2009-04-01T19:19:00.002-04:00

What a charmer! This young man tried to find something to read while his dad was on the computer. When the librarian pointed out the books about dinosaurs, he picked out a couple, then flopped back on the animal pillows. Made himself at home.

Dakota Allen of Daingerfield got caught reading about dinosaurs as he lounged in the children's area of the Daingerfield Public Library during spring break.

Book Review

2009-03-27T22:18:00.004-04:00

Small Town Girl
by LaVyrle Spencer
1997

What a fun read! When the librarian told me that I needed to read this book and that Spencer's inspiration for it was Reba McEntire, I brought it home. I've been reading mostly mysteries and whodonits lately so this was a nice change of pace.

Being a 'small town girl' myself, I could relate to small town happenings; ie, everyone knowing your business. ;o) The book gave a bit of insight into the music industry and how important who you know can be.

It also hit on how cruel kids some times are. Remember the nerd in your life? Perhaps he/she grew up and turned out not so nerdy after all!

Third Annual Book Sale - HUGE Success

2009-03-23T14:57:00.008-04:00

Before

Set-up

After

First Customer

One of our younger customers...see those two in the background already reading?!

During

Catered Dinner

2009-03-18T13:33:00.003-04:00

Last night we catered the March meeting of the Business & Professional Women.

Did you guess that we did a Mexican theme? Unfortunately the photographer forgot to get photographs of the food:

beef enchiladas

chicken enchiladas

tortilla soup

Mexican slaw

tossed salad

Let's not forget the desserts!

sugar-free sopapilla cheesecake

sopapilla cheesecake

Heath bar cake

fruit bowl

In addition to iced tea, water and coffee, one of our members brought a non-alcoholic Sangria. Oh, my! We were afraid that after we got through sipping that there'd be none left for the dinner attendees!

Most of these recipes are, of course, in Cooking With Friends. We sold several copies last night but still have a copy for you! Ordering information is in the sidebar on the right.

Got Caught Reading #2

2009-03-12T21:03:00.003-04:00

Our second Got Caught Reading appeared in the Daingerfield Bee.

Since Jim King moved to Hughes Springs five years ago, he said that the Daingerfield Public Library has been a lifesaver. Mr. King uses the computer on a regular basis. He was caught reading “Newsweek.”

Catered Luncheon

2009-03-09T18:55:00.004-04:00

Today we catered a luncheon for the Economic Development board members. Since we had to serve only 10, we decided to not use plastic.

The two flower arrangements were made for us compliments of Mills Flowers in Daingerfield. Aren't they simply beautiful?!

Third Annual Book Sale!

2009-03-07T19:47:00.003-05:00

Get ready for the Third Annual Book Sale sponsored by Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library.

The Book Sale will be held the third Saturday in March every year. This year the date is March 21.

Hope to see you there!

Got Caught Reading #1

2009-02-26T18:50:00.007-05:00

A big THANK YOU to the Daingerfield Bee for publishing our first "Got Caught Reading" photograph.

Dressed for the recent cold spell with a cup of hot coffee and a good book, Martha Moore got caught reading Belva Plain’s “Crossroads,” at the Daingerfield Public Library. Mrs. Moore is a resident of Daingerfield and patron of the library.

Check out the Daingerfield Bee. Scroll down the sidebar on the right for the link.

"Cooking With Friends" Recipe Review #8

2009-02-23T19:08:00.002-05:00

Nutty Cracker Delights
Page 166

When I first tasted these crunchy bars at my 50th High School Reunion, I was truly hooked. Margie M-H, my classmate, brought these to that gathering. I sold one Cooking with Friends cookbook when another classmate tasted the bars at that gathering. I have also made variations of them with graham crackers and brown sugar; club crackers with brown sugar, and any nuts you prefer (walnuts, sliced almonds, slivered almonds) also works great. I can't keep them on hand...they just disappear. I've carried these to several gatherings now, and never have any to bring home.

Submitted by Sue

Copies of Cooking With Friends are easy to obtain. Ordering information is in the bar on the right. With Spring just around the corner, now is the time to try new recipes!

Book Review

2009-02-15T11:54:00.007-05:00

Change of Heart

by Jodi Picoult

Hmmm. This book really makes you think and readjust your values and beliefs - to a certain extent. And, it is just a novel.

I had a bit of trouble following this book initially. Each chapter is from the viewpoint of one of the main characters in the book. In order to help you realize who was "speaking," the font is changed for each person. After four or five chapters, I got into the rhythm of the book.

This book deals with capital punishment from the persepective of:

A convict wanting to donate his heart to a victim's family member.

An ACLU lawyer who I liked regardless of her occupation and place of employment.

A priest with a triple connection to the convict.

The prisoner in the next cell.

The woman whose husband and older daughter were killed.

Picoult is an excellent author with fifteen published books. At this time, the Daingerfield Public Library has the following books by Picoult:

My Sister's Keeper

Vanishing Act

Nineteen Minutes

"Cooking With Friends" Recipe Review #7

2009-01-26T22:18:00.002-05:00

Chess Squares
Page 114
This quick to fix recipe, submitted by Jean H., should be tried by everyone. It is always delicious and quickly disappears when served.

Old Fashion Chess Pie
Page 151
My sister, Lou, shared this recipe with me almost 50 years ago. This is a simple, delicious pie. One of my nieces requests this pie anytime we are getting together.

Submitted by Sue

Have you realized that our community has some really great cooks? Then what are you waiting for? Look in the information bar on the right side of this page for ordering information for your very own copy of Cooking With Friends. All proceeds go to support the Daingerfield Public Library. THANK YOU!

Author Review

2009-01-19T11:48:00.004-05:00

Harlan Coben writes all enthralling "who done-its." I thought I had the last one I listened to figured out. Not.

I'm quilting again. As a hand quilter, I sit for long periods of time and listen to either the radio or audio books. I recently finished listening to these two titles:

Fade Away
Drop Shot

Both are part of Coben's Myron Bolitar series. Second and third I believe. I have not read/listened to these in order.

I really like Coben's writing style. He holds your attention. You do not get bored. I like Myron Bolitar's dry sense of humor. What I don't like, especially when I listen to his work, is the language some of Coben's characters utter. When I read, I can get past it. When I hear it, it is like being verbally assaulted. Yes, I know. Some people do talk that way. I don't.

I will continue to read Coben. On paper. That way I can skim over the words I don't like and not be verbally assaulted.

Books in the Bolitar series:
Deal Breaker
Drop Shot
Fade Away
Back Spin
One False Move
The Final Detail
Darkest Fear
Promise Me

Books that stand alone:
Tell No One - movie starring Francois Cluset and Kristen Scott-Thomas now on DVD
Gone For Good
No Second Chance
Just One Look
The Innocent
The Woods
Hold Tight
Long Lost - due to be released March 31

Once again, the Daingerfield Public Library may not have all titles.

"Cooking With Friends" Recipe Review #6

2009-01-19T11:41:00.002-05:00

Egg Dish
Page 91

This dish is a hit with my husband. I add a flat can of green chili peppers and always hope to have some left for a snack later. Reheats well in microwave. I serve with salsa for topping, a fruit salad, English muffins and jelly for a great meal for family or overnight guests.

Submitted by Sue

I think the time is right to include this recipe on the blog.

Egg Dish

6 eggs, slightly beaten
6 slices bread, cubed
1 cup Velveeta or sharp cheddar
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
pepper to taste
1 pound sausage, fried, crumbled and greased drained

Mix all together; pour into a 13 x 9-inch dish; refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Want more delicious recipes? Purchase your copy of "Cooking With Friends." Ordering information can be found in the bar to your right.

Book Review

2009-01-17T17:22:00.005-05:00

New Year's Quilt
Jennifer Chiaverini

Another extremely good book by my favorite quilt related author. New Year's Quilt is the eleventh book in the Elm Creek Series. I listened to this audio book while quilting - most appropriate.

Even though I recommend it, I did have a problem. I understand bringing a new reader up to date in case this is the first Elm Creek novel the reader has picked up. I understand a quick rehash of past events. This book however continued to flash back. Even though Chiaverini elaborated on previous events, it became rather tiresome for me. Had I been reading a book, I would have flipped a few pages each time Sylvia began her reminiscing to get back to the current events as they unfolded.

I have enjoyed the Elm Creek quilt series. Titles include:
The Quilter's Apprentice
Round Robin
The Cross Country Quilters
The Runaway Quilt
The Quilter's Legacy
The Master Quilter
The Sugar Camp Quilt
The Christmas Quilt
Circle of Quilters
The Quilter's Homecoming
The Winding Ways Quilt
The Lost Quilter - coming April 2009

Other books related to Elm Creek are books which include patterns for quilts mentioned in Chiaverini's books:
Elm Creek Quilts
Return to Elm Creek
More Elm Creek Quilts

Also is a cookbook that reads like a novel:
The Quilter's Kitchen

The Daingerfield Public Library does not currently have the quilt pattern books or the cookbook. It may not have all of the novels.

New Meeting Date!

2009-01-15T20:49:00.001-05:00

Meeting date for the Friends of the Daingerfield Public Library has been changed.

We'll see you at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday of each month at the Daingerfield Public Library.

Book Review

2009-01-13T16:16:00.004-05:00

Being Dead is No Excuse:

The Official Southern Ladies Guide to Hosting the Perfect Funeral

by Gayden Metcalfe and Charlotte Hays

March 2005

Being Dead is No Excuse is a delightful read, and the recipes sound delicious. Being a Methodist, I really enjoyed the humor...seems like the Episcopalian ladies and the Methodist ladies are always having quite the contest as to who gets to the bereaved family home first with food. I find this to be a recommended read, especially for those of us who enjoy reading cookbooks as if they were novels.

Submitted by Sue

"Cooking With Friends" Recipe Review #5

2009-01-09T00:51:00.003-05:00

Mexican Chicken
Page 86

Cooking With Friends has two variations of this Mexican-style chicken dish. Recipes were submitted by Derenda S. and Bobbie H. You can pick your favorite version.

This is a family staple recipe. We have one who does not care for the Nacho flavored chips, so I use the regular Dorito-type ones; we all love the Rotel kick in this recipe, and pass the salsa for those who enjoy it.

Submitted by Sue

2009-01-01T01:06:00.001-05:00

Resolutions for 2009:

1. Get a library card

2. Read more books

3. Purchase Cooking With Friends

"Cooking With Friends" Recipe Review #4

2008-12-29T23:26:00.002-05:00

Lynda's Hot Chicken Salad
Page 85

Lynda's Hot Chicken Salad, submitted by Margie H., is the perfect dish to take to potluck dinners or to serve at home. It makes a very nice sized 10 x 11-inch or so dish or a thinner version cooked in a 9 x 13-inch pan. The cornflake butter mixture makes a very nice topping. We enjoy the crunch of the water chestnuts.

Sue

Hmmm...wonder how this would work with leftover turkey? Sue didn't mention the almonds the recipe calls for. Water chestnuts AND almonds. Interested? I know where you can purchase Cooking With Friends.