'Hot Reads' Readers Recommend Great Books

Looking for your next good book? Check out what fellow readers are reading this winter and sharing for the Hot Reads for Cold Nights program! 

Fiction

A Catered Birthday Party by Isis Crawford (2010).  “Libby and Bernie own A Little Taste of Heaven, a bakery and catering store. They sleuth on the side with their father Sean. Only because the local Police Chief is too lazy to fully investigate!”  - Chisago Lakes patron

Forged by Laura Crum (2004).  “Horse vet Gail (Stormy) McCarthy finds herself involved in solving the murder of Dominic, her horseshoer. So many people wanted him dead.” - Chisago Lakes patron

Girl Who Sang to Buffalo by Kent Nerburn (2013). “Bemidji’s Kent Nerburn has a special way of writing to present the Native American story with respect and interesting characters. He has been there to see these stories. If you like this book I would encourage you to read one of his eight books!” - Pine City patron

The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri (2013). “Two Indian brothers coming of age in the 1950s and 1960s. One bound by tradition and the other revolution. Spare and poetic writing style – amazing!” - Pine City patron

Tending Roses by Lisa Wingate (2001). “A woman [Kate] moves with her young family to help take care of her aging Grandmother in Missouri. She has been chosen (by her family) to convince Grandma it’s time to move off the farm, which is devastating to the Grandma. Kate finds her Grandmother’s journal and the stories of families, friendships, and faith open Kate’s eyes, mind, and heart about her own family and her relationship with the Grandmother deepens and is seen in a new light.” - Chisago Lakes patron

And Then You Dye by Monica Ferris (2012). “When our favorite needlepoint draft shop owner Besty Davenpoint of Minnesota found another dead body, she must wring the truth from many suspects. The truth just might mean the difference between living and dying.” - Pine City patron


Non-fiction


The Death of Santini by Pat Conroy (2013). “Disturbing. Self-indulgent. I couldn't put it down. Would recommend to anyone who has read the Great Santini.” - Pine City patron

Make Each Day Your Masterpiece by Michael Lynberg (2001). Contains “inspirational short stories, words of wisdom, and uplifting reminders. Easy reading but powerful possibilities.” - Chisago Lakes patron

One Summer: America, 1927 by Bill Bryson (2013).  “Historical account of notable figures in one year (1927). Interesting facts/quirks about Babe Ruth, Charles Lindbergh, Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Mt. Rushmore. A lot happened that year and the author brings it to life in fascinating detail.” - Chisago Lakes patron

Vintage Crafts by Clara Lidstrom (2013). “Ideas for fun vintage decorating. If you enjoy crafting, you’ll like these quick decorating projects.” - Chisago Lakes patron

Andrea Hermanson, Branch Librarian, Pine City