Recap of Recaps: May 23–May 29

Submitted by Joanie Goforth

Here are a handful of recaps from some great programs that took place across the branches between May 23–May 29. Book clubs take the spotlight this week, with both regular and new attendees engaging in lively discussions!

An audience volunteer steals the show during Lew-E’s performance

Attendees discovering Lew-E’s clown secrets

overBOOKed at Cumming Library

“We had another big group today for overBOOKed. Residents from a nearby retirement community have started attending, along with our regulars. Our book was A Gentleman’s Murder by Christopher Huang, an homage to the

Golden Age detective fiction of the 1920’s (think Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers). It takes place after WWI at the Britannia Club in London - a gentleman’s-only club for veterans. Eric Peterkin’s family has been members since the inception but he’s a little different in that he is half-white and half-Chinese. When a brand new club member is discovered murdered in the club vault the day after he joins, Peterkin decides to solve the case. WWI looms large in this novel and members had a lot of thoughts on this book! Huang’s writing is very descriptive and he includes an author’s note and a historical note which show how much research he put into the book. One new member hadn’t read the book, she just wanted to come along to see if she wanted to join. When asked if our discussion made her want to read the book, she said she definitely plans on reading it. overBOOKed Rating: 5.92.” –hosted by Jennifer Bell

Exploring Sawnee Mountain Preserve at Hampton Park Library

"Jackson Gibbs with Sawnee Mountain Preserve was a wonderful speaker and one attendee commented on how engaging he was. I started out the program by telling all of the adults about our Summer Reading Program, letting them know that it is NOT just for kids! Jackson started his presentation with the history of Sawnee Mountain Preserve and the different phases of preservation through the years. He told everyone about the various trails, camps, and events that the Preserve offers to families and children in the county. He mentioned that they provide activities for seniors in the area, like a kayaking adventure. Jackson gave a brief history of the Native American seats and the old mine shafts that are still on the land. He told the attendees about job and volunteer opportunities at the Preserve. Everyone thanked us, and one person commented, ‘I would have never known about this if it wasn't for the library having this program.’" –hosted by Diana Wolski

Book Sleuths at Post Road Library

“We had a great time at this month's Book Sleuths meeting! May's pick was All the Dark Places by Terri Parlato, a thriller that follows two main characters, Molly and Rita. After hosting a party, Molly wakes up one morning to find her husband murdered. As the investigation unfolds with the help of lead detective Rita, Molly's past traumas start coming back to haunt her. Overall thoughts on the book were overwhelmingly positive, and everyone who attended enjoyed it. Twists and turns abound and all characters seemed like suspects, which kept us guessing until the very end. Everyone liked that it was a fast-paced read that kept their attention. Attendees agreed that they liked the main characters, which is not always the case with some of the thrillers we've read! We had one regular who attended even though she didn't read the book in time for the session, but she said hearing everyone's thoughts only made her more excited to read it!” –hosted by Morgan Shaffer

Lew-E's Comedy Circus at Sharon Forks Library

Lew-E was an absolute pleasure to have for our kick off events! Patrons of all ages were captivated by the entire program. He was funny, crowd aware, and great with the kids. I would absolutely have him return to Sharon Forks. agrees! This was Ms. Steph’s first Lew-E experience and I think I laughed just as hard as the kids! He was fantastic!” –hosted by Stephani Lindsey

Lew-E’s audience was all smiles (and laughs!)