The Best Books of 2013

So many books, so little time. That’s my motto. 2013 was a great year for anyone that likes to read—spectacular books from just about every genre filled the bookshelves. There truly is something for everyone this year. The holidays are upon us, and if you find yourself lucky enough to have a few spare moments, […]

Cookbooks for Holiday Giving 2013

The A.O.C. Cookbook Suzanne Goin, $35 The James Beard Award-winner is back with a second great book, filled with recipes from her L.A. small-plates restaurant, A.O.C. Lob flavor bombs like Lamb Meatballs with Spiced Tomato Sauce, Mint and Feta; or S’Mores with Caramel Popcorn and Chocolate Sorbet from your own kitchen. The Artisan Jewish Deli […]

Merry Reading: Children's Books to Read This Holiday Season

Between no school and winter weather, the holiday season is a perfect time to introduce favorite stories to your kids or grandkids. No matter what, or how, you celebrate, there’s a story perfect for your family. It’s the best way to spend time together after a delicious, filling meal. So grab a blanket, maybe even […]

October Books: Silly Season

Just like a good chef appreciates a Twinkie once in a while, so it goes with book lovers. Serious stories and true-life tales are immensely satisfying—but so is a good chuckle. Here are eight great choices that deliver the funny. William Shakespeare’s Star Wars Ian Doescher You only thought you had every Star Wars book […]

September Books: Sequels and Second Acts

Expect this fall’s bookshelves to be crowded with highly anticipated sequels alongside new novels from acclaimed authors. Drop the kids off at the bus stop, grab a cup of joe and kick back with your next favorite read. Sycamore Row John Grisham Matthew McCon … err, I mean Jake Brigance, returns to the Ford County […]

6 Summer Reading Ideas for Teens

Trying to keep your kid engaged with reading can be difficult—especially during summer. Here are 6 great suggestions sure to capture their imagination: The Enchantress  Michael Scott The sixth in the series, Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel find themselves squaring off against monsters from Alcatraz Island in a fight to save to save San Francisco. Far […]

August Books: You're a Quick Read

With just a few more weeks of summer, this is the perfect time to wrap up your beach reading with a book that can be finished in a long afternoon. Here are 4 great warm-weather suggestions: Finding Bliss Dina Silver Chloe Carlyle doesn’t want to love Tyler Reed, but sometimes love doesn’t listen. Is Tyler […]

Men We Love: Major General John Borling

Major General John Borling, USAF Ret., of Rockford, admits to more failure than most highly accomplished men. And that makes him all the more inspiring and endearing. His response to those failures, embodied in his motto “to quit is to die,” has led Borling to an extraordinary life. His accomplishments include surviving 6 1/2 years […]

6 Books for Your Beach Bag

Summer sun means summer fun. If you’re daydreaming about calm waters and cool breezes, we’ve got the book to complete your day at the beach. Where’d You Go, Bernadette Maria Semple You think your mom is crazy? My guess is Bernadette Fox has got her number. Join daughter Bee as she tries to decipher her […]