Wednesday, October 31, 2007

New Release Spotlight: The Dog Says How

The Dog Says How by Kevin Kling

Before I read Kevin Kling’s collection of autobiographical essays, I didn’t know much about him except that he’s an NPR commentator. While reading The Dog Says How, I discovered that Kling is a talented storyteller. His childhood stories and his clever observations of his surroundings are told effortlessly. And within all the humor there is wisdom. Humor and wisdom seem to go hand in hand throughout this book; one paragraph had me laughing out loud and the next had me pausing for deeper reflection. And though this is a common pattern in Kling’s book, I was constantly—and pleasantly—surprised by it. This is not a book to skim. Every line must be read because Kling will throw in a bit of perception if you’re not looking.

Kling instantly hooked me in from the beginning when he said that “we are all made up of a little Goofus and Gallant.” For those unfamiliar with the Highlights Magazine, Goofus exemplifies bad behavior, and Gallant good behavior. Kling creates examples such as this one to explain universal experiences and to bring further understanding to human behavior—and he does it brilliantly. Not many people can tell a story of joining a circus at age twenty-six (a story that involves performing in towns down the Mississippi River for $25 per week, a captain in the process of changing genders, their boat sinking, and friends bribing him back to work with ribs) and reveal a deeper meaning: one must live life with an adventurous spirit and an open mind. If there’s a risk you’re not willing to take, ask yourself why not?

Kling's stories are the kind of adventurous tales everyone wants to hear: Russian boar hunting, stowing away in a boat; and performing his banned play in Czechoslovakia. Though some of his decisions seem foolish—and something you would never do—he meets people that have a lasting impact on his life and learns valuable lessons, all because he is open to the possibility of being shaped by his environment and the people he encounters.

Although many of his tales seem out of the ordinary, I found myself nodding in agreement and able to relate to many aspects within these stories. However, there is one big part of his life that I can’t identify with—facing and rising above the challenges that come with being disabled. Six years ago, Kling was given another chance at life after a serious motorcycle accident that left him with nerve damage to his right arm. His left arm has a congenital birth defect; he describes it as three-quarters the size of his right arm with no thumb or wrist. Depressing and frustrating? You bet. But Kling has a determined, can-do anything attitude that is refreshing and inspiring. We all have had our share of bad experiences. We have all suffered. Yet, Kling conveys that we can learn and grow from these experiences; we can heal and move forward with greater perception.

Review by Valerie Zogas, Indigo Editing, LLC

The Dog Says How
Publisher: Borealis Books
ISBN: 978-0-87351-599-3
Hardcover, $22.95

Keeper of Secrets

From our friends at Ink & Paper Group:

All of us at Three Muses Press and Ink & Paper Group would like to invite you to a celebration party for Anjuelle Floyd, TM's debut author. The promotion for her book Keeper of Secrets ... Translations of an Incident, has kept Anjuelle on the road (and around the globe) since its publication in June 2007. Her successful readings and signings, and the windfall of wonderful praise and reviews for her book, are a great achievement for Three Muses Press, and milestone for Ink & Paper Group.

All of Anjuelle's hard work will culminate with a reading & discussion on the Comcast Stage at Wordstock III, November 11th, at 3:30. Her positive, contemporary portrayal of the African American elite in modern-day America and the emotional, psychological, and sociological issues they face in Keeper of Secrets, has churned up much needed debate about how African Americans in general are represented in the media, in music, film, and on television.

We would greatly appreciate your company as we celebrate this amazing author. Did I mention the free wine and hors d' oeuvres?

The launch will be held at the Gypsy Caravan Studio, 4050 NE Broadway, Portland, Oregon, on November 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. The studio is a no-shoes environment.

Friday, October 26, 2007

Local Events

Saturday, October 27
Mary Lynn Archibald Reads from Accidental Cowgirl—Six Cows, No Horse and No Clue
Where: In Other Words Women's Books and Resources, 8 N.E. Killingsworth St.
When: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free

Sunday, October 28
Wonder Woman Day II: Celebrate Super-Hero Women and Raise Money for Domestic Violence Shelters and Crisis Lines
Where: Excalibur Comics, 2444 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
When: 1–6 p.m.
Cost: Free

Sunday, October 28
Andina Restaurant's Book Party: Gluten-Free Appetizers, Cocktails, and Signed Copies of Shauna Ahern's Gluten-Free Girl
Where: Andina, 1314 N.W. Glisan St.
When: 6–8 p.m
Price: $55. For reservations, call: (503) 228-9535

Sunday, October 28
The Liberators and Live Wire's Faces for Radio
Where: Mississippi Studios, 3939 N. Mississippi Ave.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $7
Learn more at: http://www.mississippistudios.com/bio23.htm

Sunday, October 28
Writer, Filmmaker, and Artist Miranda July & Portland Artist and Teacher Harrell Fletcher Present Learning to Love You More
Where: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Note: Mirandy July will not be at this event.

Monday, October 29
Jimmy Pickering Presents His Children's Book, Skelly the Skeleton Girl
Where: Powell's Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, 3415 S.W. Cedar Hills Blvd.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Monday, October 29
Artist Fritz Haeg Lecture
Where: Fifth Avenue Cinema, 510 S.W. Hall St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn more at: http://www.pica.org/programs/detail.aspx?eventid=285

Monday, October 29
Karen E. Bender and Nina de Gramont Present Choice, a Collection of Personal Essays About the Ongoing Debate of Reproductive Choice
Where: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 30
Author Pamela Crow Reads from Her New Book of Poetry, Inside this House
Where: Broadway Books, 1714 N.E. Broadway St.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 30
Scary Stories with Local Authors such as Natalie Serber, Chelsey Johnson, & Jay Ponteri
Where: McMenamins Kennedy School, 5736 N.E. 33rd Ave.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 31
Classics Book Group Meets to Discuss McTeague by Frank Norris
Where: Powell's Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, 3415 S.W. Cedar Hills Blvd.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, November 1
Art Show and Book Release Party: Tara Jane O'Neil Presents Wings. Strings. Meridians. A Blighted Bestiary
Where: Reading Frenzy, 921 S.W. Oak St.
When: 6 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, November 1
Martin Limon Presents The Wandering Ghost
Where: Twenty-Third Avenue Books, 1015 N.W. 23rd Ave.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, November 1
Powell's Celebrates National Adoption Month. Portraits of Adoptable Oregon Children from the Heart Gallery of Oregon will be Featured in the Basil Hallward Gallery through the Month of November. Adopted Children and Family Members will Speak Out on why "Kids Can't Wait."
Where: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Friday, November 2
Journalist Dahr Jamail Presents Behind the Green Zone
Where: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

New Release Spotlight: Illuminated

Illuminated, by Matt Bronleewe

This mystery thriller disappoints in more ways than one. On the heels of The Da Vinci Code and National Treasure, Illuminated had the opportunity to ride the treasure hunt trend and to enchant readers with further tales of secret societies dating back to medieval times. What’s more, the premise of the book, based on Gutenberg’s Bibles and codes hidden within their illuminations, invites bibliophiles to revel in a story created just for us.

The book opens with a scene depicting Johannes Gutenberg as he is warned about the heretic creating chaos in the streets and the new age the man’s death will bring. We then jump forward to a time when people are not scolded for speaking on cell phones on airplanes. August Adams, a rare-book broker, is transporting one of three Gutenberg Bibles when the beautiful woman sitting next to him reveals the plot to kill August’s son, Charlie, if he doesn’t comply with her commands to decode the Bible’s illuminations. We quickly learn that the codes lead to fortune, and a secret society called the Orphans have been seeking it for centuries. Meanwhile, August’s ex-wife, April, is pursued by more villains—of the Order of the Dragon—as she traverses a brilliant maze of secret passageways in the Library of Congress in an attempt to get to the library’s copy of the Gutenberg before the Draconists do. The battle ensues between those dedicated to preserving the Bibles, and two ancient societies racing—and killing—to steal the Bibles and the treasure they lead to.

For a book created for book lovers, though, the writing ability lacks. Simple inconsistencies, such as evaluating August’s performance in decoding the illuminations every hour to determine if his son will live another day, distract from the story. The text is full of trite, overused phrases—“shrieked like a girl,” “It wouldn’t be a secret if I told you”—and stilted dialogue for the sake of the reader—“You’re right-handed.” The best character-development points include April’s danger threshold of reading a book without her glasses and Charlie’s pride in his ability to spell lyceum.

Bronleewe’s true talent lies in music making, and readers can download a free soundtrack to the book on his site, www.mattbronleewe.com. Perhaps readers looking for an adventure should turn on the music, close their eyes, and imagine their own mystery thrillers about the Gutenberg Bible.

Review by Ali McCart, Indigo Editing, LLC

ISBN: 978-1-59554-249-6
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pub. Date: August 2007
Hardcover, $22.99

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Weekend Events

The week may have just started, but there are two exciting events coming up this weekend—it's never too early to plan! Don't miss opening night of "Collected Stories," a play described as a "timeless story of literary ambition, artistic honesty, and personal betrayal." If you're a mystery lover and fan of writer Phillip Margolin, make sure to check out the Beaverton Library this Saturday.

CoHo Productions is offering a special deal for published authors on opening night of "Collected Stories," written by playwright Donald Margulies. CoHo will give two tickets for the price of one on opening night (Friday, October 26) for any author who brings a copy of his/her published book. If you want CoHo to display and promote your book, don't forget to bring a copy! You will get your book back at the end of the show. "Collected Stories" takes place October 26–December 1, on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. at the CoHo Theater, 2257 N.W. Raleigh Street. If you're a Willamette Writer member, simply mention Willamette Writers and get $5 off the price of your ticket. For reservations, call: (503) 220-2646 For more information, visit: http://cohoproductions.org/

The New Friends of the Beaverton Library will meet on Saturday, October 27. Portland mystery writer and criminal defense attorney Phillip Margolin will discuss "How to Write for Fun and Profit." This event takes place at 11 a.m. in Meeting Room A-B at the Beaverton City Library, 12375 S.W. Fifth Street. Afterwards, there will be a silent auction from 12 to 3 p.m. Come bid! There will be fifty assorted gift baskets and refreshments will be provided.

Friday, October 19, 2007

Local Events

Saturday, October 20
Community Festival: Keep Portland Weird
Where: Multnomah County Central Library, 801 S.W. 10th Ave.
When: 12 p.m.–4 p.m.
Cost: Free. Tickets available at the welcome desk after 11:30 a.m. http://www.multcolib.org/events/kpw.html

Saturday, October 20
Author Michael Hoeye Signs Copies of Time to Smell the Roses
Where: Wallace Books, 7241 S.E. Milwaukie Ave.
When: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free

Saturday, October 20
Celebrate Poetry Northwest’s Fourth Issue
Where: Maiden in the Mist, 639 S.E. Morrison St.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free (includes a copy of the magazine)

Saturday, October 20
Tangent Reading Series: Bay Area Poets Sarah Anne Cox and Dana Teen Lomax & Portland Poet Jesse Morse
Where: The Press Club, 2621 S.E. Clinton St.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Sunday, October 21
Northwest Author Series: Author Christina Katz Talks about Writing and Raising Kids and Gives Tips to Nonfiction Writers on Writing for Publication. Hosted by Portland Poet Sage Cohen.
Where: Wilsonville Public Library, Oak Room, 8200 S.W. Wilsonville Rd. (in Wilsonville, OR)
When: 3–5 p.m.
Cost: $5 at the door

Sunday, October 21
Finding Iris Chang by Paula Kamen. Kamen Investigates the Journey of Writer Iris Chang, Author of The Rape of Nanking
Where: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Monday, October 22
Alternative Radio Founder David Barsamian Discusses Targeting Iran
Where: SEIU Local 49 Union Hall, 3536 S.E. 26th Ave.
When: 7–9 p.m.
Cost: Free
For more information, call: (503) 344-5078

Monday, October 22
Monday Night Lecture Series: Seattle Architect Steve Bandanes
Where: Fifth Avenue Cinema, 510 S.W. Hall
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 23
Peak Oil Book Group Meets to Discuss the First Half of Powerdown by Richard Heinberg
Where: Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, 3415 S.W. Cedar Hills Blvd.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 23
A.J. Jacobs Presents The Year of Living Biblically
Where: Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 24
Richard Russo Presents Bridge of Sighs
Where: McMenamin’s Bagdad Theater & Pub, 3702 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
When: Doors open at 6 p.m. Event starts at 7 p.m.
Cost: &19 (includes admission and a copy of the book)

Wednesday, October 24
Poetry Readings: Oregon Poets Margaret Smith and Elizabeth Archers
Where: Northwest Library, 2300 N.W. Thurman St.
When: 7–8 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 24
White Bird Dance Series: Pilobolus Dance Theatre
Where: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $20–$50 http://www.whitebird.org/Performances/WhiteBirdDanceSeries/PilobolusDanceTheatre/tabid/61/Default.aspx

Thursday, October 25
Chefs Pino Luongo & Mark Strausman Present Two Meatballs in the Italian Kitchen
Where: Restaurant Serratto, 2112 N.W. Kearney St.
When: Cocktail social & book signing from 6–7 p.m. At 7 p.m., Chef Josef Valoff will cook a multi-course dinner with recipes from the book.
Dinner price: $85 per person or $145 per couple (includes one copy of the cookbook). Reservations for dinner are required and must be held in place with a credit card. Call Serratto: (503) 221-1195

Thursday, October 25
Shannon Brownlee Critiques American Health Care in Overtreated
Where: Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, 3415 S.W. Cedar Hills Blvd.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, October 25
George Wright Presents Roseburg 1959
Where: Twenty-Third Avenue Books, 1015 N.W. 23rd Ave.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, October 25
Michael Hoeye Presents Time to Smell the Roses
Where: Annie Bloom’s Books, 7834 S.W. Capitol Hwy.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Friday, October 26
Book Release Party! Artist Chris Johanson Presents Please Listen I Have Something to Tell You About What Is
Where: Reading Frenzy, 921 S.W. Oak St.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free (includes snacks & treats)

Friday, October 26
Bart King Presents An Architectural Guidebook to Portland
Where: Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

New Release Spotlight: Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict

Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict by Laurie Viera Rigler

Have you ever had a dream so powerful, so realistic that it became intertwined with actual memories? In Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict, narrator Courtney Stone wakes up in an unfamiliar room. But the oddities don’t stop there; she also has a British accent and a different name—Jane Mansfield. The year is 1813.

The last thing she remembers is a night spent with Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and a bottle of Absolut. But is this a dream due to a night of vodka and months of distress—or is it actually occurring? While the narrator is busy figuring out her present life as Jane Mansfield, we get little tidbits of her life as Courtney Stone. We soon find out the reason of her distress: her fiancĂ© Frank cheated on her, and her best friend Wes didn’t tell her. Devastated and heartbroken, Courtney turns to Jane Austen, her “constant companion through every breakup, every disappointment, every crisis.” Along with Courtney, you’ll wonder if she is simply having a breakdown or if she’s truly inhabiting the body of a nineteenth-century woman.

Courtney goes from a life of struggling to support herself financially to a life where the maids do everything for her, which includes dressing her and giving her baths. But it is also a life where women have little to no independence, and are thought of as old maids if they’re still unmarried by age thirty. It is a time when money and social status were considered the most important qualities in a mate, and people did not often marry for happiness and love. Courtney may be living in the nineteenth century, but she still possesses a twenty-first century mind. After the charming Mr. Edgeworth proposes to her, she searches her Jane Austen knowledge to give a proper response, but instead says, “‘I won’t deny I’m attracted, but don’t you think this is way too fast? I mean, I haven’t even slept with you.’” Her frankness—though reasonable—is not readily accepted in a time period of propriety.

Rigler’s novel is well-written and the dialogue is both poetic and amusing. Not only will you frantically turn the pages to find out why Courtney was transported to the nineteenth century and if she will get her old life back, you will laugh with each new chapter, with each new discovery Courtney makes about her life as Jane Mansfield. Much like Courtney becomes wrapped up in her life as Jane, you too will become engrossed in the intertwined stories of these two women.

Review by Valerie Zogas, Indigo Editing, LLC

Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict
Publisher: Penguin Group
ISBN: 978-0-525-95040-0
Hardback, $24.95

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Ink-Filled Page 2007 Anthology Available Now!


We are happy to announce the release of the Ink-Filled Page 2007 print anthology. Our launch party was last Saturday. Thanks to everyone who came and celebrated with us!

In these ink-filled pages, we're certain you'll witness artists' colorful strokes of culture, portraits of themselves as caretakers, blushing reflections of their youths, and dark sketches of their deepest fears. More than anything, you'll experience their artistic revelations on life itself. While we hope readers of all ages indulge in this anthology just as artists of all ages contributed, some of these revelations may resonate more either with adults or with youths. We invite you to read and share those pieces that appeal to you the most.


Order copies from our Web site: https://www.indigoediting.com/Ink-Filled_Page.html.
Or visit our booth at Wordstock, November 9–11 at the Oregon Convention Center.

Be Unapologetic

All writers face common demons in our thoughts: This is stupid. I have nothing new to say. Who will care what I write? What would we see if we changed our perceptions? In an opinion piece in the New York Times, Verlyn Klinkenborg writes, "It's a delicate thing, coming to the moment when you realize that your perceptions do count and that your writing can encompass them. You begin to understand how quiet, how subtle the writer's authority really is, how little it has to do with 'authority' as we usually use the word." How did you grow up, and what of that time lingers in your writing and in the strength you give your voice? Klinkenborg touches on the likelihood that females experience internal road blocks more than males—what do you think about that?

Monday, October 15, 2007

Upcoming Classes at Ink & Paper Group

Sign up for the last two courses held this month at Ink & Paper Group.

AP Style Crash Course
Saturday, October 20, 2–4 p.m.
Price: $50 (includes all class materials and refreshments)
Learn about AP style with instructor Ali McCart. http://www.inkandpapergroup.com/Pages/class_descript.html#AP_style_crashcourse

Exploring the Mystery in Memoir: a fall workshop
Sunday, October 21, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Price: $150 (includes all class materials and a light lunch)
Instructor Ana Callan explores life's mysteries through readings, discussions, and writing.
http://www.inkandpapergroup.com/Pages/class_descript.html#exploringthemystery

To register for classes:
Call: 503.232.0103
or mail a check and contact information to:
Ink & Paper Group
1825 SE 7th Ave.
Portland, OR 97214

Friday, October 12, 2007

Local Events

Saturday, October 13
Writing Seminar with Local Author Don Miller
Where: Holleywood Theatre, 4122 N.E. Sandy Blvd.
When: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: $15. Bring Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell and a sack lunch.
For more info and to RSVP, e-mail: jan@imagodeicommunity.com

Saturday, October 13
Tangent Reading Series: Renowned Pop Artist Jim Dine, Poet Vincent Katz, and Photographer Diana Michener
Where: Clinton Corner Cafe, 2633 S.E. 21st Ave.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Monday, October 15
PSU's Monday Night Lecture Series: Allan McCollum Discusses His "Shape Project"
Where: Fifth Avenue Cinema, 510 S.W. Hall
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Monday, October 15
Kevin Kling Presents a Collection of Autobiographical Stories in His First Book, The Dog Says How
Where: Powell's Books on Hawthorne, 3723 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 16
Madison High School Slam Zine Team
Where: Central Library, 801 S.W. 10th Ave. (in the U.S. Bank Room)
When: 6:30–7:45 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 16
The Feminist Film Society Meets to Watch "Alien"
Where: In Other Words Women's Books and Resources, 8 N.E. Killingsworth St.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free. Donations are appreciated ($1 per person)
http://www.feministfilmsociety.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, October 16
Portland Arts & Lectures Presents Turkish Author Orhan Pamuk (2006 Nobel Prize in Literature Winner)
Where: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1001 S.W. Broadway
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $5-26 (prices vary according to age, seat level, and if you're a college student or a teacher)
Call: 503-227-2583 for tickets

Tuesday, October 16
VOICES Contemporary Lectures: Muslim Columnist and Author of The Trouble with Islam Today Irshad Manji Discusses how Islam can Transform
Where: First Congregational Church, 1126 S.W. Park Ave.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $39. Call 503-243-3440 for tickets.
More info: http://www.voicesinc.com/Pages/speaker-bios/manji-bio.html

Wednesday, October 17
Teen Book Group for 6-12th Graders
Where: Northwest Library, 2300 N.W. Thurman St.
When: 4:30–5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free (includes refreshments)
Call for titles: 503-988-5560

Wednesday, October 17
The Non-Profit and Industrial Complex Discussion and Working Group. Explores Themes Raised in The Revolution will not be Funded
Where: In Other Words Women's Books and Resources, 8 N.E. Killingsworth St.
When: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 17
Author Patrick Carman Presents Into the Myst, a Prequel to the Trilogy
Where: Barnes & Noble Clackamas, 12000 S.E. 82nd Ave.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, October 18
Double Vision: A Benefit for Artists without Health Insurance. Includes Local Country, Blues, Old Time, and Rock Music; a Poetry Reading; and Raffles
Where: McMenamin's Mission Theater, 1624 N.W. Glisan St.
When: Doors open at 5 p.m. Event starts at 6 p.m.
Cost: $10, $12
Call: 503-224-4400 for tickets (ages 21 and over) http://www.mcmenamins.com/index.php?loc=72&id=1097&eventid=54842

Thursday, October 18
Jane Porter Presents Odd Mom Out
Where: Twenty-Third Avenue Books, 1015 N.W. 23rd Ave.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Friday, October 19
Spoken Word Performance by Author Kimberly Dark
Where: In Other Words Women's Books and Resources, 8 N.E. Killingsworth St.
When: 7 p.m.
Suggested donation: $5-8
http://www.kimberlydark.com/

Friday, October 19
Author Susan Faludi Presents The Terror Dream
Where: Powell's City of Books, 1005 W. Burnside St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

New Release Spotlight: Diary of a Fly

Diary of a Fly by Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Harry Bliss

I have a background in the science field and have always enjoyed learning about plant and animal life, even those creatures that seem a bit “gross.” This is not true for everyone, but a new picture book by Doreen Cronin helps an insect usually considered to be disgusting to become just a little bit cuddlier, even for those kids and adults who find bugs to be creepy. In Diary of a Fly, Cronin takes a humorous approach to learning and teaches kids little known facts about houseflies. Following the day to day life of a young fly, the reader learns that flies leap backward when taking off and can flap their wings 200 times per second, while giving them a new miniature viewpoint of the world. Adults will find this book humorous; while children will love the fun atmosphere created in Cronin’s text. Personally, I laughed out loud at such lines as “Mom says we were a lot easier to watch before we grew heads” (when the fly and her siblings torment the babysitter) and “I visited my aunt Rita today. She’s been trapped on the wrong side of a screen for a week.”

The illustrations by Harry Bliss are equally important and creative. Colorful and cartooney, Bliss manages to give even a little fly expression and personality. Tiny details fill the pages, giving kids the chance to discover new things with each reading of the book. Bliss worked in perfect concert with Cronin’s text to create a lively and interesting book.

And, Diary of a Fly has more to it than scientific facts about tiny bugs. By looking through the eyes of this tiny creature, a fly that wants to be a superhero, children can learn that everyone, human and animal, have certain talents and abilities. Everyone has a niche to fill in the world. When even a tiny fly can realize the good aspects of her existence, children can learn from her example, and parents can use this lesson to help kids see their own talents and valuable gifts. All in all, this book provides a fun reading experience for parents and kids, while teaching a few trivia facts in the process.

Review by Katrina Hill, Indigo Editing, LLC.

Diary of a Fly
Publisher: Joanna Cotler
ISBN: 978-0060001568
Hardcover, $10.87 (Amazon)

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

2007 National Book Award Finalists Announced

I'm very much in the book awards mood this year. The National Book Awards announced its finalists today. And while you're making your to-read list, check out the National Book Foundation's "5 Under 35" fiction selections (one of the authors is published through Coffee House Press, one of my favorite publishers) and, of course, the Oregon Book Awards finalists.

Poetry and Bridge Walks

Come walk the Portland bridges with Oregon poets and singers! Don't miss the last two poetry and bridge walks of 2007.

Friday, October 12
Oregon Poet Dianne Stepp with Paula Sinclair on acoustic guitar

Saturday, October 27
Oregon Poet Laureate Lawson Inada with Stephen Cohen on acoustic guitar

When: Walks begin at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Meet at the steps of the NW Natural Building, NW 2nd and Everett.
This event ends with lunch at a restaurant downtown.
Cost: $15 for adults, $10 for children fourteen and under

Contact:
Portland Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Nancy Harger (503) 823-5127 or Sharon Wood Wortman (503) 222-5535
Prior registration is not mandatory.

Friday, October 05, 2007

Local Events

Saturday, October 6
Friends of the Multnomah Country Library Presents 34th Annual Fall Used Book Sale
Where: Former Wild Oats Store, 3016 S.E. Division St.
When: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sunday, Oct. 7, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. & Monday, Oct. 8, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.)
Cost: Free
http://www.friends-library.org/booksale/fall.html

Saturday, October 6
26th Anniversary of Banned Books Week: Celebrate the Freedom to Read with Writers Diana Abu-Jaber, Marc Acito, and Margie Boule
Where: Multnomah County Central Library, 801 S.W. 10th Ave. (in the U.S. Bank Room)
When: 2–3:30 p.m.
Cost: Free (coffee and light refreshments will be provided)

Sunday, October 7
Lecture on Chuck Close's Traveling Exhibition, Process and Collaboration
Where: Portland Art Museum, 1219 S.W. Park
When: 2 p.m.
Cost: Members, $5. Non-members, $10.


Sunday, October 7
Laura Werlin Signs Copies of Her Latest Book, Cheese Essentials, and Offers a Class on what Food to Pair with Different Cheeses
Where: Foster & Dobbs, 2518 N.E. 15th Ave.
When: 6:15 p.m. (Reservations required. Call: 284-1157)
Cost: $20 (includes samples and wine)

Monday, October 8
PSU's Monday Night Lecture Series Presents Installation Artist Jean Marie Casbarian
Where: Fifth Avenue Cinema, 510 S.W. Hall
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Monday, October 8
Stephen Colbert Book Release Party: I Am America (And So Can You!)
Where: Blitz Bar, 110 N.W. 10th Ave.
When: 11 p.m.
Cost: Free (the night will include drink specials and live screenings of The Daily Show and The Colbert Report)

Tuesday, October 9
Author Gennifer Choldenko Reads from and Signs Copies of If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period
Where: A Children's Place Bookstore, 4807 N.E. Fremont Street
When: 9:30 a.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 9
Garrison Keillor Presents Pontoon: A Novel of Lake Wobegon
Where: McMenamin's Bagdad Theater & Pub, 3702 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
When: Doors open at 6 p.m. Event is at 7 p.m.
Cost: $25.95 (includes admission and a copy of the book)

Tuesday, October 9
Androo Robinson and Maria Goodman Discuss Their "Secret Mystery Love Shoes" Zine
Where: Sellwood-Moreland Library, 7860 S.E. 13th Ave.
When: 6:30–7:45 p.m.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, October 9
Cai Emmons Presents The Stylist
Where: Annie Blooms Books, 7834 S.W. Capitol Hwy.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 10
Isabel Cruz Booksigning and Reception: Bold Latin Flavors from the New California Kitchen
Where: Isabel's new restaurant in the Pearl District, 330 N.W. 10th Ave.
When: 5 p.m.
Cost: Free (Hors d'oeuvres from her new cookbook will be served)

Wednesday, October 10
Alexandra Enders Presents Bride Island
Where: Annie Blooms Books, 7834 S.W. Capitol Hwy.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 10
Loggernaut Reading Series: Diana Abu-Jaber, Ehud Havazelet, and Rebecca Brown
Where: Mississippi Studios, 3939 N. Mississippi
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $5 recommended

Thursday, October 11
Alice Medrich Presents Pure Dessert
Where: Foster & Dobbs Authentic Foods, 2518 N.E. 15th Ave.
When: 7:15 p.m.
Cost: $50 (Demonstration price includes a copy of the cookbook, and wine & dessert tasting)
Call: Foster & Dobbs at 284-1157. Reservations required. Size is limited.

Thursday, October 11
Eban Goodstein Presents Fighting for Love in the Century of Extinction
Where: Powell's Books on Hawthorne, 3723 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Friday, October 12
Susan Patron Presents The Higher Power of Lucky
Where: Powell's Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, 3415 S.W. Cedar Hills Blvd.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Friday, October 12
Stephen R. Donaldson Presents Fatal Revenant, Sequel to The Runes of the Earth
Where: Powell's City of Books on Burnside, 1005 W. Burnside
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Thursday, October 04, 2007

Choosing Words with Care

I wasn't at the dentist office long yesterday when a technician called my name. Wow, I thought. I'll be done with my appointment in no time. Unfortunately, it turned out she wasn't calling me to start the cleaning but to update my file with a new set of X-rays.

"Your hygienist is running a little behind schedule," the tech said, fastening the lead apron around my neck, "so after we're done here, you can just go back to the waiting room." She shook her head. "I mean, the reception room. They've issued a new policy—we're supposed to call it that."

"Why?" I asked.

"So people don't think about waiting."

I started back to the reception room after the X-rays, and the tech called, a bit sardonically, "Wait in the living room."

When your mind visualizes your story's setting—in this case, a medical office—you easily see chairs, people, tables fanned with slippery magazines. But remember to look beyond that: what is that place to this character or to that one? A room in which to be received? A room in which to wait? The fretting room? The room out of the rain? The break-from-work room? The making-me-miss-my-bus room? Don't stop at the first word that comes to your mind—ask the character who's describing it to be honest.

As for me, I'll continue to wait in the dentist's waiting room—until, that is, the staff changes hard-backed chair to armchair, worn carpet to hardwood, and Muzak to music. And someone shows up with a tray of cookies and coffee. I mean, apples and lemon water.

Write-Around Round Round

This is an interesting article about magazines (eh-hem, their editors) caving to celebrity handlers…and what they could do to change that. What do you think?

Wednesday, October 03, 2007

New Release Spotlight: Dangerous Admissions

Dangerous Admissions by Jane O'Connor

Powell’s shelves editor and Fancy Nancy series author Jane O’Connor’s first adult novel under romance, borders under mystery. Both are correct—divorced mom Rannie and her two teenage kids are all looking for love (or at least a good fling), and there’s a growing list of murder victims, courtesy of a killer loose at New York City’s elite Chapel School and a separate citywide serial killer—but some of the book’s details land it squarely in feminist lit.

Rannie has sex for sex’s sake. Dates with men she accepts without expecting anything longterm or meaningful. In one scene, her partner first performs oral sex on her, then encourages her to stimulate herself while he delights her in other ways. A mainstream romantic mystery taking the time to acknowledge that a woman’s orgasm cannot always be had through vaginal intercourse? What a shocking step forward.

In another bold move by O’Connor, high school senior Olivia, the romantic interest of Rannie’s son, Nate, masturbates without guilt: “Coming always left her feeling peaceful, almost with a sense of well-being—it worked way better than the Ambien her mother was quick to offer. So how about ‘Teenage Girls Jerk Off, Too!’ for her Princeton essay?”

The book’s mysteries, its focus, aren’t as surprising, but they’re solidly rendered, and amateur sleuths Rannie and Olivia actually have good reason for getting involved—they’re not just nosy. Rannie’s potentially first serious romance and the investigations wrap up predictably—mostly. Details, again, give each a progressive oomph.

Along the journey O’Connor showcases some nice writing. Rannie’s elderly acquaintance Daisy Satterthwaite’s apartment “with its damask-covered walls and heavy draperies tethered in strangleholds of tasseled swags, was all a bit too haute Miss Haversham.” Looking at the relationship between Olivia and her family’s housekeeper, Carlotta, O’Connor writes, “Carlotta patted Olivia’s hand and got out a roll of butter run Life Savers, something Carlotta always kept in her purse along with jet-black rosary beads, ones blessed by the Pope that Olivia had brought back from Rome years ago.” Unfortunately, snippets of instant messages, e-mails, and memos sprinkle the text for no good reason; O’Connor’s good enough at working true dialogue into the narrative not to need to include such structural gimmicks.

To end on a minor note, Rannie is a copyeditor, which of course dares the reader to find mistakes in Dangerous Admissions. There are very few—most of those are matters of style preference, fewer are more solidly questionable—but none will ruin the book for anyone. And like Rannie, who notes grammatical mistakes in casual conversation but does not chide aloud, this reviewer will end without further comment on such technicalities, simply grateful for a fun and refreshing read.

Review by Kristin Thiel, Indigo Editing, LLC

Dangerous Admissions
Publisher: Avon
ISBN: 978-0-06-124086-7
Paperback, $13.95

Define-A-Thon

Test your word skills at Broadway Books (1714 NE Broadway St.) next Tuesday, October 9, at 7:00 p.m. The Define-A-Thon is structured like a spelling bee but, instead of spelling words, contestants define them. Call Broadway Books to sign up. The number is 503-284-1726; ask for Roberta.

Gabriel Boehmer, author of City of Readers, is acting as MC for the event.

Monday, October 01, 2007

Join us for the IFP launch!

We are happy to announce the upcoming release of the Ink-Filled Page 2007 Anthology. Please join us at our launch party on Saturday, October 13 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Ink & Paper Group, 1825 SE 7th Ave. in Portland.


Light refreshments will be provided, and you'll have the chance to meet authors and artists while you hear them read and admire their artwork!

To learn more about the Ink-Filled Page, please visit https://www.indigoediting.com/Ink-Filled_Page.html.

Hope to see you there!