I would like to add my voice to those congratulating Malala Yousafzai of Pakistan for winning the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote and protect girls’ rights to education. Seventeen-year-old Malala, who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012, is the youngest person to ever win the Nobel Prize…. Read more »
contest
Bookstore Love
I recently read—and enjoyed—the novel, The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin, a sweet homage to independent bookstores. Given my long-standing love of bookstores (and libraries), it’s not surprising this story resonated with me. I still have fond memories of the book sellers of my youth: the erudite sales staff at Kroch’s and Brentano’s,… Read more »
Taking the Polar Plunge
Some talk the talk Some walk the walk Sunday some took the plunge. I would do many things to promote literacy and to support the Chicago Special Olympics (my son was a coach when he was in Chicago), but taking the Polar Plunge definitely does NOT fall in that category. Fortunately, there are others, apparently… Read more »
Author Interview and Valentine’s Day Book Giveaway!
Last year, I had the pleasure of hearing author Brenda Ferber speak about the craft of writing and the business of publishing, as well as read from her wonderful picture book, The Yuckiest, Stinkiest, Best Valentine Ever. I found both the author and book to be engaging and was thrilled when Brenda agreed to be… Read more »
Hillary…A Woman of Valor
Last week, I had the privilege of attending a benefit luncheon at which the former Secretary of State and former U.S. Senator from New York was the featured guest speaker. As the purpose of this occasion was to raise funds for charitable purposes, rather than political ones, no press was allowed inside the room (and… Read more »
Have a Grand Day: September 8
Do you know that the first Sunday after Labor Day is National Grandparents Day? This special day is meant to celebrate the important bonds between grandparents and grandchildren. You can mark this day in whichever way suits your family best. Grandparents might give and/or receive presents. You might gather for a festive meal or make cards for… Read more »