February 8, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Susan Abulhawa

Abulhawa.jpgMonday, February 8, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

Susan Abulhawa discusses her debut novel, Mornings in Jenin, which is richly told and full of humanity, forcing a fresh look at one of the defining political conflicts of our lifetime. LIbrary Journal says, "'Every now and then a literary work changes the way people think. Abulhawa, herself Palestinian, has crafted an intensely beautiful fictionalized history that should be read by both politicians and those interested in contemporary politics."

Susan Abulhawa was born to refugees of the 1967 war when Israel captured what remained of Palestine, including Jerusalem. Her essays and political commentaries have appeared in print and international news media and she is a contributing author to two anthologies, Shattered Illusions (Amal Press, 2002) and Searching Jenin (Cune Press, 2003). Mornings in Jenin is her first novel.

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February 9, 2010

        

Simpsons Night @The Library

TheSimpsons.jpgTuesday, February 9, 2010
7:00 to 9:00 pm
McManus Room
All ages welcome

Celebrate Presidents’ Day by watching classic political episodes of The Simpsons. Hosted by resident Simpsons’ geek, Teen Services Librarian Jaina Lewis, the night will include trivia and candy.

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February 10, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Anne Ford

AnneFordauthorphoto.jpgWednesday, February 10, 2010
10:00 am
McManus Room

Anne Ford speaks about her book A Special Mother: Getting through the Early Days of a Child's Diagnosis of Learning Disabilities and Related Disorders, co-authored with John-Richard Thompson, who will also be present. Ford is the author of the memoir Laughing Allegra, on raising her severely learning disabled daughter, and On Their Own: Creating an Independent Future for Your Adult Child with Learning Disabilities and ADHD. The great-granddaughter of Henry Ford, she served as Chairman of the National Center for Learning Disabilities from 1989 to 2001, and remains a committed advocate and frequent speaker on LD issues. Thompson is an award-winning playwright and novelist, who has collaborated with Anne Ford at NCLD.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Items in the Library catalog on learning disabilities.
Co-sponsored with Smart Kids with LD.

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February 11, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Rafael Yglesias

happy-marriage.jpgThursday, February 11, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

In A Happy Marriage: A Novel , Rafael Yglesias tells the story of Enrique Sabas and his wife Margaret, alternating between the romantic misadventures of the first weeks of their courtship and the final months of Margaret's life as she says good-bye to her family, friends, and children — and to Enrique. Spanning thirty years, the story is tells it means for two people to spend a lifetime together, capturing the maturing of feelings, the issues around sex, and the frustrations of parenthood — and what makes a happy marriage. "Maybe marriage is the oldest story in the world, but in Mr. Yglesias's tender, funny, rueful telling, the lifelong relationship is the story of life itself.”— Wall Street Journal, The Summer Book List.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: What’s Happened to Wall Street, Part II

D-Komansky.jpgMarc-Lasry2.jpg Thursday, February 11, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Moderated by Dan Goodgame, financial journalist, editor, and media consultant, two veterans of the financial world return to discuss the financial crisis and bailouts, their aftermaths and the implications. David Komansky (left), who serves on the Library’s Advisory Council, retired as Chairman of Merrill Lynch in April 2003 after spending 35 years at the firm. Marc Lasry (right), is CEO and co-founder of Avenue Capital Group.

Community Conversations are sponsored by The Smilow Family.

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February 12, 2010

        

Fridays in February: Internet, Email, and Downloadable Audiobook Training

internet2.jpgFriday, February 12
Between 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Reference Desk

Drop in for personalized, half-hour training sessions on basic Internet, email, and downloadable audiobooks.

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Booklover's Bash

book_heart.jpgFriday, February 12, 2010
6:00 to 8:00 pm
The Great Hall

What's at the top of your reading list? Come and exchange your favorite titles and authors with other readers and get ideas for your book club. Meet Nina Sankovitch who read a book a day for an entire year. Drop in and enjoy some wine, cheese and good conversation with fellow bibliophiles.

Enter through upper level entrance.

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February 16, 2010

        

Riverwalk Display: Books That Fool the Eye: Trompe L’oeil Paintings by Norm Siegel

SIEGEL-20_000-Spine-(3).jpgFebruary 16 - April 30, 2010
Riverwalk Display

"Books That Fool the Eye: Trompe L’oeil Paintings by Norm Siegel”

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Pageturners: Beneath a Marble Sky

Beneath-a-Marble-Sky.jpgTuesday, February 16, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors. 324 pages. In 1632, the Emperor of Hindustan, Shah Jahan, consumed by grief over the death of his empress, Mumtaz Mahal, ordered the building of a grand mausoleum to symbolize the greatness of their love. Against scenes of unimaginable wealth and power, murderous sibling rivalries, and cruel despotism, Princess Jahanara tells the extraordinary story of how the Taj Mahal came to be, describing her own life as an agent in its creation and as a witness to the fateful events surrounding its completion.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

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February 18, 2010

        

MovieLine: Bright Star

Bright_star.jpgThursday, February 18, 2010
7:00 PM
McManus Room
Note: This is a rescheduled date from Wednesday, February 3rd

Directed by Jane Campion, Bright Star pays homage to nineteenth century poet John Keats' unstoppable love affair with Fanny Brawne that ended with his tragic death at age 25. Roger Ebert describes it as “visual beauty to match Keats' verbal beauty.” (119 minutes)

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February 19, 2010

        

Fridays in February: Internet, Email, and Downloadable Audiobook Training

internet2.jpgFriday, February 19
Between 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Reference Desk

Drop in for personalized, half-hour training sessions on basic Internet, email, and downloadable audiobooks.

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February 21, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Gorky Park

Gorky-Park.jpgSunday, February 21, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Gorky Park by Martin Cruz Smith. Moscow detective Arkady Renko must battle the KGB, FBI, and the NYPD to solve the murders of three corpses found frozen in the snow at a Moscow amusement center.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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February 22, 2010

        

Jobseeker Special:
Personal Branding in the Job Search

Stanley-Witkow-b.jpgMonday, February 22, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Stan Witkow, a Westport outplacement professional, discusses how to achieve success in the job search through the use of personal branding techniques.

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February 23, 2010

        

Community Conversation: Significance of Ethnicity in Afghanistan

community-conversations2.jpgTuesday, February 23
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Anthropologist Alessandro Monsutti, a professor at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland, currently doing research at Yale University, will speak on the social and political history of Afghanistan, including the significance of Afghanistan's ethnic groups and tribalism.

Monsutti has done field work in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran, and in Western countries among Afghan refugees and migrants. He has also worked as consultant for humanitarian and development organizations, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Berne.

Community Conversations are sponsored by The Smilow Family.

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February 24, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Cathleen Schine

schinecathleen3111.jpgWednesday, February 24, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

In The Three Weissmanns of Westport, author Cathleen Schine presents a modern-day take on Sense and Sensibility when two sisters return home to live with their recently divorced mother in a small, run-down Westport, Connecticut, beach cottage. As the sisters mingle with the suburban aristocracy, love starts to blossom for both of them, and they find themselves struggling with the dueling demands of reason and romance.

A former Westporter, Cathleen Schine is the author of the internationally best-selling novels The Love Letter (1995), which was made into a movie starring Kate Capshaw, and Rameau’s Niece (1993), which was also made into a movie (The Misadventures of Margaret), starring Parker Posey.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Books by Cathleen Schine in the Library catalog.

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February 26, 2010

        

Fridays in February: Internet, Email, and Downloadable Audiobook Training

internet2.jpgFriday, February 26
Between 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Reference Desk

Drop in for personalized, half-hour training sessions on basic Internet, email, and downloadable audiobooks.

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February 27, 2010

        

FAMILY PROGRAM: Pig Out at the Library

daisyreading200.jpgSaturday, February 27, 2010
2:30 pm
McManus Room
Ages 5 & up

Join farmer Paul Minor with his special friend Daisy for a fun celebration of E.B. White’s book Charlotte’s Web. Hear Daisy noises, give Daisy a treat, and talk about and read from Daisy’s favorite pig books.

Note: Free tickets available in the Children’s Library beginning at 9:00 am on the day of the performance-space is limited.



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February 28, 2010

        

WHEN COOL WAS HOT! Film Series

fountainhead_art_200_200804.jpgSunday, February 28, 2010
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy winter Sundays with hot cider, a short introduction, and a film to highlight the exhibit at the Westport Historical Society, "WESTPORT MODERN: WHEN COOL WAS HOT!," from January 24 to May 2.

In The Fountainhead, starring Gary Cooper, Patricia Neal, and Raymond Massey, Ayn Rand’s monumental best-selling book is turned into a bizarre screen triumph as an uncompromising visionary architect struggles to maintain his integrity despite pressures to conform. (1949, 114 minutes)

Library catalog.
Co-sponsored with the Westport Historical Society.

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March 1, 2010

        

WestportREADS: Harney Teas

WR-Logo.jpgMonday, March 1, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

At the last official program of the WestportREADS series, join Michael Harney of Harney & Sons as he explores the world of tea with an emphasis on Japanese blends.

WestportREADS is funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

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March 2, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Jerome Charyn

Secret-Life-of-Emily-Dickin.jpgTuesday March 2, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

In his new novel, The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson, author Jerome Charyn removes Emily Dickinson's own mysterious mask, revealing the passions and heartbreak of America's greatest poet. Charyn was born in the Bronx in 1937 and has written 37 books, including three memoirs about his childhood in the Bronx, two of which were named New York Times Book of the Year.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Items on Emily Dickinson in the Library catalog.

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Series on Sustainable Living: A Sense of Wonder

GVI-logo.jpg Tuesday, March 2, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Pioneering environmentalist Rachel Carson's love for the natural world, and her fight to defend it, is depicted in this documentary-style film, A Sense of Wonder (2008, 55 minutes). When she published Silent Spring in 1962, the backlash from her critics thrust her into the center of a political mailstrom. The film is an intimate and poignant reflection of Carson’s life as she emerges as America’s most successful advocate for the natural world.

A discussion will follow, facilitated by David Brown, Public Health Toxicologist, Director of Environment and Human Health, Inc., and professor of environmental ethics at Fairfield University, on Rachel Carson’s life and her impact on our lives.

Co-sponsored with the Green Village Initiative.

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March 3, 2010

        

Learning Disability Companion Disorders: Dealing with Anxiety and Depression in Students with LD

Ken_Magrath.jpgWednesday, March 3, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Dr. Kenneth Magrath, is a licensed clinical psychologist who has served on the faculties of the Cornell University College of Medicine and New York Medical College. He will speak about anxiety and depression in children with learning disablity. His professional focus includes the assessment of cognitive and learning styles, plus career and academic coaching based on these results. He is also a member of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities’ Board of Directors.

Items in the Library catalog on learning disabilities.
Co-sponsored with Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities.

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March 4, 2010

        

Yoga

yoga2.jpgThursday, March 4
4:05 to 4:35 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy a short introduction and demonstration of yoga with Benay Rubin. This program is open to all interested in learning more about yoga.

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March 6, 2010

        

TRENDS in TECHNOLOGY: eBay

ebay.jpgSaturday, March 6, 2010
11:00 am
McManus Room

It's a familiar term. So, what exactly is eBay? EBay enthusiast Roy Heget will discuss how to buy and sell items, pay with PayPal, and market items for sale.

Items in the Library catalog on Ebay.

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March 7, 2010

        

MUSIC @THE LIBRARY: Bonefide Brass

Bonefide-Brass-A.jpgSunday, March 7, 2010
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Bonefide Brass will delight the audience with this classical performance (with a few surprises) by eight trombones. These trombonists are from Fairfield and Westchester counties and include Glenn Babakian, Zachary Aaron Barkon, Christopher Espy, Paul Geidel, Nicole Hansboro, Jim Marbury, Bryan Thirkield, and John Russo.

Supported by the Grace K. Salmon Foundation.

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March 8, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Irene Levine

Best-Friends-Forever-cover.jpgMonday, March 8, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

New York University School of Medicine psychologist, professor, and award-winning freelance writer Irene Levine discusses her self-help guide for women recovering from a break-up with their best friend in Best Friends Forever: Surviving a Breakup with Your Best Friend. "Whether your friendship sputtered because of physical distance or your best friend slept with your boyfriend, Levine deftly assures us that although the pain can be strong, the sorrow will pass."—Publisher's Weekly

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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March 9, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Leticia Moreinos Schwartz

Brazilian-Kitchen.jpgTuesday, March 9
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Brazilian cooking is an explosion of color and flavor. Chef Leticia Moreinos Schwartz, who grew up in Rio de Janeiro, spent her childhood eating feijoada, a dish of black beans and meat cooked slowly, and drinking fresh coconut water on the beach. Today, she creates her own fabulous food in some of the world's top restaurant kitchens. Her new cookbook, The Brazilian Kitchen: 100 Classic and Contemporary Recipes for the Home Cook , reinterprets classic Brazilian dishes, making them lighter and less sweet for our health-conscious age. Join her as she shares her passion for her country's cuisine and her aim to bring Brazil's favorite foods to American kitchens.

Leticia Schwartz graduated from the French Culinary Institute with degrees in both culinary and pastry arts. She has held positions at legendary New York restaurants such as Le Cirque 2000, La Grenouille, La Caravelle and Payard Patisserie and Bistro.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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Is Texting Taking a Toll?

Texting.jpgTuesday, March 9, 2010
7:00 to 9:00 pm
Toquet Hall

Join Family Educator Heather Simonson, PeaceWorks, and the Westport Youth Commission's IMentor Committee as they discuss issues surrounding cell phone communication, safety, and what parents and teens can do.

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March 13, 2010

        

Friends Winter Book Sale

booksale.jpgSaturday, March 13, 2010
9:00 am to 5:00 pm
McManus Room

Hardcover and trade paperback fiction, mysteries, sci-fi, and fantasy. Also, nonfiction and fiction mass-market paperbacks, LP records, video cassettes, in addition to children's paperback and hardcover books. Nothing is priced above $2. This is a bargain sale. More information.

Visa and MasterCard accepted.
Want to volunteer at the sale? Email Suzy Hooper geosoo143@yahoo.com.

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March 14, 2010

        

Friends Winter Book Sale

booksale.jpgSunday, March 14, 2010
1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
McManus Room

Hardcover and trade paperback fiction, mysteries, sci-fi, and fantasy. Also, nonfiction and fiction mass-market paperbacks, LP records, video cassettes, in addition to children's paperback and hardcover books. Nothing is priced above $2. This is a bargain sale. More information.

Visa and MasterCard accepted.
Want to volunteer at the sale? Email Suzy Hooper geosoo143@yahoo.com.

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March 15, 2010

        

Friends Winter Book Sale

booksale.jpgMonday, March 15, 2010
9:00 am to 8:00 pm
McManus Room

Everything 1/2 price!

Hardcover and trade paperback fiction, mysteries, sci-fi, and fantasy. Also, nonfiction and fiction mass-market paperbacks, LP records, video cassettes, in addition to children's paperback and hardcover books. Nothing is priced above $2. This is a bargain sale. More information.

Visa and MasterCard accepted.
Want to volunteer at the sale? Email Suzy Hooper geosoo143@yahoo.com.

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March 16, 2010

        

Friends Winter Book Sale

booksale.jpgTuesday, March 16, 2010
9:00 am to Noon
McManus Room

Everything free! Donation requested.

Hardcover and trade paperback fiction, mysteries, sci-fi, and fantasy. Also, nonfiction and fiction mass-market paperbacks, LP records, video cassettes, in addition to children's paperback and hardcover books. Nothing is priced above $2. This is a bargain sale. More information.

Visa and MasterCard accepted.
Want to volunteer at the sale? Email Suzy Hooper geosoo143@yahoo.com.

| Comments (0)

        

Pageturners: The White Tiger

white-tiger.jpgTuesday, March 16, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga. 276 pages. This first novel by Indian writer Adiga depicts the awakening of a low-caste Indian man to the degradation of servitude.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

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Series on Sustainable Living: Fresh

GVI-logo.jpg Tuesday, March 16, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

The film Fresh (2009, 72 minutes) is just that—an upbeat and wonderfully fresh look at our food system and how to make it work better for the health of humans and the planet. Fresh features urban farmer and activist, Will Allen, sustainable farmer and entrepreneur, Joel Salatin, made famous by Michael Pollan’s book, The Omnivore’s Dilemma, and supermarket owner, David Ball, challenging our Wal-Mart dominated economy, and is a must-see for all who eat!

A discussion will follow, facilitated by Sherri Brooks Vinton, author of The Real Food Revival and the soon-to-be-released Put 'Em Up. Sherri has taught numerous eaters how to support local agriculture with their food choices and will give you the tips and tricks needed to enjoy a more delicious, sustainable dinner.

Co-sponsored with the Green Village Initiative.

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March 17, 2010

        

Jobseeker Resource Seminar

jobseekers.jpgWednesday, March 17, 2010
10:00 am
McManus Room

Learn about the excellent Library resources that will make you an informed jobseeker.

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March 18, 2010

        

The Restructuring of the Auto Industry: An Insider's View

feldman_2.jpgThursday, March 18, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Matthew Feldman, a partner at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP in New York City, served as Chief Legal Advisor to the Obama administration’s Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry and helped to develop the overall strategy to restructure and recapitalize General Motors Corporation and Chrysler. Hear about his unique experience and insight into the restructuring of the auto industry.

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March 19, 2010

        

Soundings Awards Ceremony

soundings-banner-10-17-08Re.jpgFriday, March 19, 2010
4:30 to 6:00 pm
McManus Room


Come celebrate the winners of this year's Resounding Memories Creative Writing Contest for teens. Refreshments will be served.

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March 20, 2010

        

FAMILY PROGRAM: Zoo Station Rain Forest

iguana.jpgSaturday, March 20, 2010
2:30 pm
McManus Room
Grades 1-6

Join presenters from The Hartford, CT. Children’s Museum and learn about the habitat and adaptation of earth’s most diverse ecosystem. The museum will be bringing a variety of different animals from its Wildlife Sanctuary.

Note: Free tickets available in the Children’s Library beginning at 9:00 am on the day of the performance-space is limited.

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TRENDS in TECHNOLOGY: The Wide World of Google

Mathias_4564-5x7.jpg Saturday, March 20, 2010
11:00 am
McManus Room

Hear about the many faces of Google, including Google Docs, Google Voice, and Google Talk, from information technology executive Mark Mathias. He has 30+ years experience with both large and small companies. He is the technology columnist for Westport News and uses a variety of social media technologies for personal and business use. Mathias has been awarded "Industry MVP" and also named to Computerworld's inaugural list of "Premier 100 IT Leaders."

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March 21, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Unnatural Causes

Unnatural-Causes.jpgSunday, March 21, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Unnatural Causes by P. D. James. Superintendent Adam Dalgliesh’s much anticipated holiday at his aunt’s country cottage ends abruptly with the macabre discovery of the handless corpse of a crime-writer in this third title of the series.  

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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March 23, 2010

        

Series on Sustainable Living : Permaculture

GVI-logo.jpg Tuesday, March 23, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Andrew Faust, a teacher of ecological design for over 17 years, will speak on permaculture. This concept uses nature's own ecosystems to supply human needs. By studying natural ecosystems and implementing them in our own gardens, farms, and communities, self-sustaining methods can be created to grow food with better yields and harness energy naturally. The goal of permaculture is to improve quality of life, health, sense of community, and to leave the planet in better shape for future generations.

Co-sponsored with the Green Village Initiative.

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March 25, 2010

        

Jobseeker Special:
Turn Networking to Getworking

networking2.jpgThursday, March 25, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Ron Drew, and experienced marketing and management professional, will share strategies on making the most of networking opportunities.

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AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Jeff Shesol

supreme-power.jpgThursday, March 25, 2010—Note: this is a new, changed date
Noon
McManus Room

Jeff Shesol, a former speechwriter to President Bill Clinton and the author of Mutual Contempt: Lyndon Johnson, Robert Kennedy and the Feud That Defined a Decade, will discuss his new book Supreme Power: Franklin Roosevelt vs. the Supreme Court. “Once in a generation a groundbreaking book comes along to provide a major reinterpretation of a familiar historical event. Sheshol tells the story of FDR's court packing plan as it has never been told before. This is a stunning work of history.” — Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of Team of Rivals.

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March 28, 2010

        

WHEN COOL WAS HOT! Film Series

North_by_Northwest.jpgSunday, March 28, 2010
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy winter Sundays with a hot cider, a short introduction, and a film to highlight the exhibit at the Westport Historical Society, "WESTPORT MODERN: WHEN COOL WAS HOT!"

Hitchcock’s stylish comedy/thriller North by Northwest is set in the luxuriously modern Frank-Lloyd-Wright era and stars Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint and James Mason. In one memorable scene after another, bewildered ad man Grant is chased cross country by spies who think he is a double agent and by police who think he is an assassin. (1959, 136 minutes)

Library catalog.
Co-sponsored with the Westport Historical Society.

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April 1, 2010

        

Great Hall Art Exhibit: Capricious Geometry

Flying-Wedges.jpgApril 1-May 31, 2010
The Great Hall

Joan Miller creates hard-edged collages of optical illusions, intended to make the viewer believe things that are not true. The illusions happen on several levels. Through the use of paper and color, depth is created. The objects look plausible, but cannot exist in the real world and can be interpreted in multiple ways.

Opening reception: Friday, April 9, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.
Light refreshments served. Enter through the main level Library entrance.

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April 3, 2010

        

Mother/Daughter Self-Defense Workshop

self-defense.jpgSaturday, April 3, 2010
2:00 to 4:00 pm
McManus Room
Middle school age and up

Certified Self-Defense instructor Michael Robin will teach mothers and daughters strategies to empower and educate themselves. Registration is required, as space is limited. Contact Teen Services Librarian Jaina Lewis at 203-291-4809 or jlewis@westportlibrary.org.

Items in the Library catalog on self-defense for women.

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April 5, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Anne Lutz Fernandez

Carjacked.jpgMonday, April 5, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Author Anne Lutz Fernandez discusses Carjacked: The Culture of the Automobile and Its Effect on Our Lives, an in-depth look at the obsession with cars addressing the complex impact of the automobile on modern society and showing how to develop a healthier, cheaper, and greener relationship with cars. Co-author Catherine Lutz will also be present.

Anne Lutz Fernandez is a former investment banker, now Staples English teacher, and her sister Catherine Lutz is a professor of anthropology and international studies at Brown University.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

 

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April 6, 2010

        

Series on Sustainable Living : The Real Dirt of Farmer John

GVI-logo.jpgTuesday, April 6, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

In The Real Dirt on Farmer John (83 minutes), a maverick Midwestern farmer, castigated as a pariah in his community, transforms his farm amidst a failing economy, vicious rumors, and arson. Afterwards, Westport teachers Cecily Duffy (horticulture), Michael Aitkenhead (Environmental Science), and 5th grade teacher Joanne Fasciola speak on growing your own food.

Co-sponsored with the Green Village Initiative.

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April 9, 2010

        

Opening Reception for the Great Hall Art Exhibit of Collages by Joan Miller

Osmosis.jpgFriday, April 9, 2010
6:00 to 7:00 pm
The Great Hall

Joan Miller creates hard-edged collages of optical illusions, intended to make the viewer believe things that are not true. The illusions happen on several levels. Through the use of paper and color, depth is created. The objects look plausible, but cannot exist in the real world and can be interpreted in multiple ways. The exhibit runs April 1-May 31, 2010.

Light refreshments served. Enter through the main level Library entrance.

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April 11, 2010

        

MUSIC @THE LIBRARY: Sandra Murphy and Rita Lapcevic

four-hands-piano1_5072.jpgSunday, April 11, 2010
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Sandra Murphy and Rita Lapcevic have been a duo-piano team for 38 years. Sandra, organist and choir director of Greenfield Hill Church, is well known in the Fairfield County area as a duo-pianist, ensemblist, and teacher. She is a member of the Silvermine Duo-Pianists as well as being Director of the Silvermine School of Music. As a member of the Schubert Club of Fairfield County, she has performed extensively. Rita, who earned her Masters degree in music from Duquesne University, is an active musician in Fairfield County both as a duo-pianist and as a chamber ensemblist. A member of the Silvermine Duo-Pianists and the Schubert Club of Fairfield County, she combines teaching with her performing activities.

Supported by the Grace K. Salmon Foundation.

| Comments (1)

        

The Usual Suspects: Consigned to death

Con_Death_ppr_cover.jpgSunday, April 11, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery Consigned to Death by Jane Cleland. Antiques appraiser Josie Prescott is the prime suspect when her client, whom she believes to be in possession of paintings looted by the Nazis, is found murdered.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

| Comments (0)

April 13, 2010

        

Series on Sustainable Living: Creating a Local Foodshed

GVI-logo.jpgTuesday, April 13, 2010
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Local farmers share their knowledge and passion about how to grow, source, and eat real, delicious food closer to home. Speakers include Sal Gilbertie, Amy Kalafa, Dina Brewster, and Annie Farrell.

Co-sponsored with the Green Village Initiative.


| Comments (0)

April 14, 2010

        

Jobseeker Resource Seminar

jobseekers.jpgWednesday, April 14, 2010
10:00 am
McManus Room

Learn about the excellent Library resources that will make you an informed jobseeker.

| Comments (0)

April 17, 2010

        

Murder 203: Connecticut's Mystery Festival

murder203_header2010.jpg







Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18, 2010
Westport and Easton Libraries

Connecticut now has its own major event for the mystery-minded! Murder 203 is a two day festival organized by the Easton and Westport Libraries for readers and writers. Attendees enjoy author talks, panel discussions, book signings, writing tips from the professionals, and a unique opportunity to mingle with authors and fellow crime fiction enthusiasts at the Cocktails and Crime reception on Saturday evening.

Twenty authors are scheduled to attend, headed up by Guest of Honor Mary Jane Clark. Clark is a veteran New York City CBS News producer and writer, who pens the best-selling media-thriller series featuring Eliza Blake, a TV morning show host.

The event is $65 if you register before March 1st. After March 1st, registration is $75. Meet-the-Authors continental breakfast Saturday and Sunday morning is included in the registration fee as well as lunch on Saturday and admission to Cocktails and Crime.

For information and registration, visit murder203.com.

Questions? Phone Jane Murphy at 203-291-4836.

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April 18, 2010

        

Murder 203: Connecticut's Mystery Festival

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Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18, 2010
Westport and Easton Libraries

Connecticut now has its own major event for the mystery-minded! Murder 203 is a two day festival organized by the Easton and Westport Libraries for readers and writers. Attendees enjoy author talks, panel discussions, book signings, writing tips from the professionals, and a unique opportunity to mingle with authors and fellow crime fiction enthusiasts at the Cocktails and Crime reception on Saturday evening.

Twenty authors are scheduled to attend, headed up by Guest of Honor Mary Jane Clark. Clark is a veteran New York City CBS News producer and writer, who pens the best-selling media-thriller series featuring Eliza Blake, a TV morning show host.

The event is $65 if you register before March 1st. After March 1st, registration is $75. Meet-the-Authors continental breakfast Saturday and Sunday morning is included in the registration fee as well as lunch on Saturday and admission to Cocktails and Crime.

For information and registration, visit murder203.com.

Questions? Phone Jane Murphy at 203-291-4836.

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April 20, 2010

        

Pageturners: The Bastard of Istanbul

The-Bastard.jpgTuesday, April 20, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak. 360 pages. Beautifully imagined—it's as much family history as national history that drives this vital and entertaining novel. And it's the powerful and idiosyncratic characters that drive the family history. And, as you hear in your mind's ear, it's Shafak's vibrant language that drives the characters. Shafak was recently acquitted of the charge of "denigrating Turkishness" because of her frank look at Turkish-Armenian antipathy.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. New participants always welcome.

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MovieLine: Pirate Radio

pirateradioposter.jpgTuesday, April 20, 2010
6:45 pm
McManus Room

Pirate Radio is the story eight DJ's whose love of Rock 'n' Roll changed the world forever. These rogue DJs captivated Britain by playing music that defined a generation and standing up to a government that, incomprehensibly, preferred jazz. The band of rebels is lead by The Count, played by the Academy Award Winning Philip Seymour Hoffman, and also stars Bill Nighy, Rhys Ifans, Nick Frost, and Kenneth Branagh. (134 minutes)

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April 21, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Diane Meier

SeasonforSecondChances-book.jpgWednesday, April 21, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

Author Diane Meier's debut novel, Season of Second Chances illustrates how coming-of-age can happen at any age. A world of possibilities opens up for Joy Harkness when she sets out on a journey that’s going to show her the importance of friendship, love, and what makes a house a home. Meier is the author of The New American Wedding and president of Meier, a New York City–based marketing firm. Her career spans from writing and design to public speaking. This is her first novel. Meier lives in New York City and Litchfield, Connecticut.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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April 23, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Daniel Asa Rose

Larry-cover.jpgFriday, April 23, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

Daniel Asa Rose, author of Larry's Kidney: Being the True Story of How I Found Myself in China With My Black-Sheep Cousin and His Mail-Order Bride, Skirting the Law to Get Him a Transplant ... and Save His Life, discusses his memoir chronicling his trip to Beijing to help his cousin receive an illegal kidney transplant, collect a mail-order bride, and restore East-West relations while they're at it. "A satisfying, hysterical page-turner that will captivate fans of travel writing and family narratives, with special interest for anyone who's helped a loved one through serious illness."-- Publishers Weekly

Daniel Asa Rose has won an O. Henry Prize, two PEN Fiction Awards, and an NEA Fellowship. Formerly arts and culture editor of Forward and currently an editor of the international literary magazine The Reading Room, he has written for the New Yorker, Esquire, Vanity Fair, GQ, and the New York Times Magazine, and is the author of the acclaimed memoir Hiding Places: A Father and His Sons Retrace Their Family's Escape from the Holocaust.

Daniel Asa Rose on NPR's Diane Rehm show

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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April 26, 2010

        

Finding Stolen Art: A Detective Takes on the Nazis

Jane-Cleland-crop.jpgMonday, April 26, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Meet our detective: Maria Altmann. In a real-life David vs. Goliath tale, one woman, almost 90 years old and more than 10,000 miles away, took on the Austrian government—and won. Jane Cleland, author of the award-winning Josie Prescott mystery series, will present the story behind this thriller and will also examine the fate of more than 100,000 pilfered objects yet to be found.

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April 27, 2010

        

Teen Animé Night

anime-4.jpgTuesday, April 27, 2010
6:30 to 8:30 pm
McManus Room

Join the Westport Library for a night of animé and meet others who share your passion. The selection will be picked by the audience, so come with ideas! No registration necessary. Contact Jaina Lewis at 203-291-4809 or jlewis@westportlibrary.org for more information.

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May 2, 2010

        

Poet's Voice: Jorie Graham

jgraham3.jpgSunday, May 2, 2010
3:00 pm
McManus Room

Jorie Graham is the author of numerous collections of poetry, including her most recent, Sea Change (2008). She has also edited two anthologies, Earth Took of Earth: 100 Great Poems of the English Language (1996) and The Best American Poetry 1990. Graham's many honors include a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Fellowship and The Morton Dauwen Zabel Award from The American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters. The Dream of the Unified Field: Selected Poems 1974-1994 won the 1996 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. She served as a Chancellor of The Academy of American Poets from 1997 to 2003, and she currently sits on the contributing editorial board to the literary journal Conjunctions. She is the Boylston Professor at Harvard, the first woman to be awarded this position.

Jorie Graham was born in New York City in 1950, the daughter of a journalist and a sculptor. She was raised in Rome, Italy and educated in French schools. She studied philosophy at the Sorbonne in Paris before attending New York University as an undergraduate, where she studied filmmaking. She received an MFA in poetry from the University of Iowa. The Times Literary Supplement says, “One of the most intelligent poets in the language . . . [Graham] is like no one else, neither in her rhythms nor in her insistence on opening up, scrutinizing, and even reversing our experience of time and space.”

Books by Graham.

Poet’s Voice is supported by the Horace E. Manacher Poetry Fund.

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May 10, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Laurie Sandell

imposter's-daughter.jpgMonday, May 10, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Laurie Sandell, a contributing editor at Glamour, grew up idolizing her brilliant dad, enthralled with his memories of his glamorous, adventuresome past. But as an adult, she realizes that her hero may not be who he said he was. Sandell's story, The Imposter's Daughter, told in comic-strip-style drawings, is a unique, compelling tale.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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May 16, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: The Face of a Stranger

The-Face-of-a-Stranger.jpgSunday, May 16, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery The Face of a Stranger by Anne Perry. Victorian sleuth William Monk wakes up in a hospital with no memory, and is assigned to investigate a "gentleman's" brutal murder even though he's forgotten his professional skills.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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MUSIC @THE LIBRARY: Eddie Pleasant

Eddie_Pleasant.jpgSunday, May 16, 2010
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Edward Pleasant distinguishes himself as an outstanding performing artist in opera and musical theater as well as in concert, recital and recording. He has been critically acclaimed by The New York Times for his “appealing stage presence.” He will present "Sincerely, Nat: The Life and Music of Nat "King" Cole," which tells the story of the entertainer's incredible career and why this man is truly "Unforgettable." The Edward Pleasant Trio will also perform with Isaac ben Ayala on piano (also the musical arranger), James Chirillo on electric guitar, and Paul Beaudry on string bass.

Supported by the Grace K. Salmon Foundation.

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May 17, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Geoffrey Becker

Hot-Springs.jpgMonday, May 17
Noon
McManus Room

In his latest, Geoffrey Becker (2008 Flannery O'Conner Prize winner for Black Elvis) discusses Hot Springs, about a volatile young woman determined to raise the biological daughter she gave up for adoption. Publishers Weekly descibes it as "a remarkably taut narrative and a rousing testament to humanity's capacity for resilience. Nobody gets off the hook, though they do find uneasy deliverance in unexpected places."

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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May 18, 2010

        

Pageturners: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Guernsey.jpgTuesday, May 18, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. 288 pages. As Juliet and her new correspondent exchange letters, she is drawn into the world of this man and his friends, all members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a unique book club formed in a unique, spur-of-the-moment way—as an alibi to protect its members from arrest by the Germans. Crazy title for a book and a mouthful, but this little book will keep you reading and wanting to plan a trip to Guernsey.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. New participants always welcome.

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May 19, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Larry Goldstone

The-Astronomer.jpgWednesday, May 19, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Lawrence Goldstone discusses his new novel, The Astronomer, a suspense thriller revolving around a plot to kill Nicolaus Copernicus during the period of religious intolerance in sixteenth-century France. This is a powerful novel of love and betrayal, and a thrilling portrait of what might well have happened at a hinge point in history when science and ancient religious belief collided.

Lawrence Goldstone is the author of the acclaimed thriller The Anatomy of Deception, a 2008 New York Times Notable Crime Novel, and several works of history, including Dark Bargain, The Activist, and Out of the Flames. He lives in Westport, Connecticut.

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May 23, 2010

        

FILM @THE LIBRARY: Encounter Point

Encounter-Point.jpgSunday, May 23, 2010
2:00 pm
McManus Room

The award-winning film Encounter Point moves beyond sensational and canned images to tell the story of an Israeli settler, a Palestinian ex-prisoner, a bereaved Israeli mother, and a wounded Palestinian, who sacrifice their safety, public standing, and homes in order to press for a grassroots movement for nonviolence and peace. (2006, 85 minutes)

Co-sponsored with Interfaith Council.

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June 9, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Stephanie Cowell

Claude-&-Camille-A-Novel-of.jpgWednesday, June 9, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

Author Stephanie Cowell discusses Claude & Camille: A Novel of Monet, a portrait of both the rise of Impressionism and of the artist at the center of the movement, as well as a complex and engrossing love story.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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June 10, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: John Barricelli

sonobakingcook284x348.jpgThursday, June 10, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

Author and chef John Barricelli, owner of The SoNo Baking Company & Café in South Norwalk, CT, presents 125 recipes for sweet and savory breads and baked goods in The SoNo Baking Company Cookbook, a comprehensive and inviting cookbook with easy-to-follow directions.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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June 20, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: In the Woods

In-the-Woods.jpgSunday, June 20, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award-winning mystery In the Woods by Tana French. Twenty years after witnessing two violent disappearances from their Dublin suburb, detective Rob Ryan investigates a chillingly similar murder that takes place in the same wooded area.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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July 7, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Frank Bruni

bruni-bornround300dpi.jpgThursday, July 7, 2010
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Author Frank Bruni discusses his memoir Born Round: The Secret History of a Full-Time Eater, an unflinching account of a restaurant critic whose life revolved around his obsession with food and his inability to shed his fat-boy image. This is a heartbreaking and hilarious account of how he learned to love food just enough after decades of struggling with his outsize appetite.

Frank Bruni is a writer for Times Magazine and was the former restaurant critic for The New York Times. Before that he served as the newspaper’s Rome bureau chief and as a White House correspondent. His 2002 book about George W. Bush, Ambling into History, was a New York Times best seller. He lives in New York City.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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July 11, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie

The-sweetness-at-the-bottom.jpgSunday, July 11, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley. Flavia de Luce, an eleven-year-old girl with a passion for concocting poisons in post-WWII England investigates when a man is left dead in the family garden and her father is the main suspect.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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August 15, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: In a Dry Season

In-a-Dry-Season.jpgSunday, August 15, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award winning mystery In a Dry Season by Peter Robinson. DCI Alan Banks investigates when a dried up reservoir reveals the unidentified bones of a brutally murdered young woman that has lain there for half a century.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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September 22, 2010

        

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Lisa Wexler

Lisa-Wexler.jpgWednesday, September 22, 2010
Noon
McManus Room

Connecticut radio talk show host and attorney Lisa Wexler discusses her book Secrets of a Jewish Mother, co-written with her mother Gloria Kamen and sister Jill Zarin, a star of The Real Housewives of New York City.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

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September 26, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: Dance Hall of the Dead

Dance-Hall-of-the-Dead.jpgSunday, September 26, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award-winning mystery Dance Hall of the Dead by Tony Hillerman. When two young boys suddenly disappear, Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn of the Navajo Tribal Police, must observe the strange laws of the Zuñi while tracking their brutal killer.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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October 17, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: Murder in the Marais

Murder-in-the-Marais.jpgSunday, October 17, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery Murder in the Marais by Cara Black. Aime Leduc, a intrepid young French-American detective, is hired to investigate the grisly murder of an old Jewish woman in the Marais district of Paris.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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November 21, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: Still Life

still-life.jpgSunday, November 21, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award-winning mystery Still Life by Louise Penny. Chief Inspector Gamache of the Sûreté du Quebec is called to a tiny hamlet south of Montreal to investigate the suspicious hunting "accident" that claimed the life a local woman.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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December 19, 2010

        

The Usual Suspects: The 39 Steps

buchan-thirty-nine-steps-bo.jpgSunday, December 19, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery The 39 Steps by John Buchan. Adventurer Richard Hannay is thoroughly bored with his life until a murder is committed in his flat. This 1915 thriller inspired many other novelists and filmmakers including Alfred Hitchcock.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

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