This Week's Staff Favorites: Volume 10

Shakespeare Uncovered http://www.pbs.org/wnet/shakespeare-uncovered/

The Public Broadcasting Station has a special series occurring over the next few weeks called Shakespeare Uncovered. A popular actor that has taken on Shakespearean roles goes out to explore the popular culture behind certain plays, its history, and how it’s influenced our society as we know it. The first episode was hosted by Ethan Hawke and deconstructed the famous drama, Macbeth. Throughout Hawke explores several concepts of the play: how Macbeth is influenced by the supernatural witches, how ambition and “dark forces” take control of him, the role of the wife, and finally the death and disaster that take over in entirety. Scholars and actors are interviewed, a visit to the real Macbeth’s castle is taken, and the audience goes behind the scenes of the London Globe Theater’s production of the drama. It’s definitely an interesting series so far, especially for anyone wanting to know more about Shakespeare in general! The first episodes are available to watch online and the next two episodes appear tonight at 9pm on PBS.

-Judy, Reference

Gillian Flynn:

I just finished Gone Girl, and it really lived up to the hype. Amy and Nick Dunne were living a glittering dream--writing jobs, Brooklyn brownstone, Amy's trust fund--that was quickly and mercilessly liquidated by the Great Recession. Their marriage unravels when they move to Missouri to care for Nick's ailing parents, and Amy disappears on their fifth anniversary. It may sound like another episode of Law and Order, but Flynn's potent storytelling, spiky observations, and a delectable menagerie of unhinged characters elevate the book into an exercise in psychological jujutsu. I'm officially hooked on her writing, as I'm currently reading Dark Places and awaiting Sharp Objects from SWAN.

-Megan, Reference

The Revenge of Geography: What the Map Tells Us About Coming Conflicts and the Battle Against Fate by Robert D. Kaplan

Kaplan’s new book (located on our new book shelf) explains his theory that cultures and politics are largely shaped by geography. He covers some interesting themes and offers intriguing ideas and opinions throughout. For example, attempted control of Middle Europe was fundamental in the campaign of the Nazis, the U.S.S.R., and continues today with the EU.  After he explains a few historical geopolitical theories, he outlines his own unique take on world affairs which are too hard to summarize here. I’m surprised by how much I’ve enjoyed the book considering that I don’t normally like his style of historical writing (i.e. determinism combined with vague imperialism). If you’re interested in international politics, history, or the game RISK, I’d recommend it because it is thought-provoking. 

-Mike, Reference

A Smile as Big as the Moon by Mike Kersjes

This inspiring story is about a special education teacher/ football coach who gets his students into Space Camp, even though normally it is only for gifted and talented students.  Kersjes presents his experience with honesty and humor.  He shows great persistence and determination in preparing his students for this incredible adventure in getting to Space Camp.  He believed in his students and taught them to believe in themselves, even when the world around them has belittled them for so long.  I would give this book two thumbs up! 
 
-Janice, Youth Services

"Favorite Super Bowl" party recipe:  Taco Dip

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 (16 ounce) container nonfat sour cream

1 (1.25 ounce) package taco seasoning mix

1/4 head iceberg lettuce - rinsed, dried, and shredded

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

3 chopped tomatoes

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 (2.25 ounce) can black olives, drained

Directions

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream and taco seasoning. Spread this mixture in a 9-inch (or a little larger) round serving dish. Top the mixture with lettuce, Cheddar cheese, tomatoes, bell pepper and black olives.

-Janice, Youth Services