July Events

We're all a little wacky with excitement, because our July events are the tops! There aren't too many, but they're all terrific authors with terrific books, and even a few canine friends in search of a home. I hope to see you there. And remember, in these times, you can't beat free fun, and our events are always free.

Thursday, July 9th, Inked books: the Graphic Novel Book Club discusses Arkham Asylum, by Grant Morrison.
This is Batman on the cutting edge, as he faces not only his most dangerous foes but his own inner demons as well. The inmates of Arkham Asylum have taken over Gotham's detention center for the criminally insane, and demand Batman in exchange for their prisoners. Accepting their demented challenge, Batman is forced to live and endure the personal hells of the Joker, Scarecrow, and many others of his sworn enemies in order to save the innocent and retake the prison. During his run through this absurd gauntlet, the Darknight Detective's own sanity is in jeopardy. And the art is phenomenal! Inked books is a drop-in discussion group focused on the Graphic Novel. Starts at 4:00 PM

Tuesday, July 15th, our soon-to-be-named Middle Reader book club discusses The Looking Glass War by Frank Beddor.
The Looking Glass war is the real story of Alice In Wonderland! The Truth in Wonderland is real. Alyss Heart is the heir to the crown, until her murderous aunt Redd steals it, and kills Alyss' parents. Alyss and her bodyguard, Hatter Madigan, flee to our world through the Pool of Tears, only to become separated. Lost and alone in Victorian London, Alyss is befriended by an aspiring author to whom she tells the violent, heartbreaking story of her young life. Yet he gets the story all wrong. Madigan knows the truth only too well, and he is searching every corner of our world to find the lost princess. Join Colleen for thought-provoking chit chat, fun, and prizes. Starts at 6:00 PM

Thursday, July 16th, we welcome William C. Pack for a reading and discussion of his novel The Bottom of the Sky, an aching rags-to-riches family saga that spans smalltown Montana to Wall Street and the Silicon Valley. Pack takes us inside the aftermath and consequences of child abuse for a sister and a brother. One succumbs to addiction and degradation, while the other escapes, wielding a fragile and uncanny genius, to strike it rich. This is a riveting, thunderous tale of disparate worlds joined by one man in his search for redemption.

We're teaming up with CORA on this event. They provides free and confidential services to victims and survivors of domestic and dating violence and abuse, including child and teen witnesses, in San Mateo County. Their services include a 24-hour hot line, support groups, legal services, emergency and transitional housing, and more. 15% of the book sales will be donated to them. Starts at 7:00 PM


Wednesday, July 22nd, we'll celebrate the release of Maud Markson's latest novel, Looking After Pigeon.
This is one of my top picks for summer, a book that I absolutely loved. It's the story of a girl named Pigeon, and the summer of her fifth year. That's the year her father takes off, and her mother moves her and her brother and sister from New York to the Jersey Shore. The characters in this book are priceless, and horrifying. And for anyone whose childhood was less than ideal, this is the book for you. We'll start at 7:00 PM, and there will be light hors d'oeuvres and drinks served.


Saturday, July 25, Pets in Need animal adoption and fundraiser
We're all a little dog crazy in the store (some of us certifiably so), so this event is going to be a fantastic way to close out the month. Located in Redwood City, Pets in Need's mission is to bring a loving, healthy home within paw's reach of every adoptable dog and cat in our community. From 12:00 to 3:00 stop by the store and meet a few of these homeless fellows. And when you make a purchase, we'll donate 15% of it to Pets in Need.

Tuesday, July 28th, The Forth Tuesday Book Club on special assignment . . .

And lastly, don't forget every Saturday morning at 11:00am Picture Book Pals takes over the kids' section with stories, fun, and sometimes treats! Kids under 5 are welcome, and parents too.

Take Care
Eric