Thunderstruck by Erik Larson
The story of Dr.Hawley Crippen, a murderer, and Gugliemo Marconi, creator of radio communication, are interwoven in a story of one of the greatest criminal manhunts in history. Crippen was married to Belle, a spendthrift who was unfaithful and demanding. After apparently doing Belle in, he attempted to flee the country with his innocent lover and secretary Ethel. It was one of the first times wireless telegraphy was used to track a fugitive. Exciting, fast-paced story.  --SB

August 3, 2009

To see every bird on earth by Dan Koeppel (CD)
Nature and adventure writer (Audubon and National Geographic Adventure) writes about his father Richard, a “big lister” bird watcher. Richard is one of only ten or so people who have recorded more than 7000 birds in their lives. He stated at age 11, with a brown thrasher. Dan tells the story of his dad, who was pushed into medical school by his parents and never wanted to be a doctor. His mom, who married very young, wanted an adventurous, artistic life.
Richard eventually quit medicine to spend all his time birding. His relationships with family and friends fall by the wayside. He had an interesting life, but the birding info is what makes this book unique.  --SB

May 18, 2009

Farewell, my Subaru by Doug Fine

Experience the author's life being environmentally friendly.  He owns a farm in New Mexico with goats, solar heat and chickens.  Chapter on converting his car to vegetable oil is a hoot.  --SS

February 19, 2009

Deal breaker by Harlan Coben

New York Times best selling author Coben introduces a new sleuth, sports agent Myron Bolitar. Bolitar was a big time college basketball star, who had a career-ending injury in his first pro season. He is starting to establish himself as a sports agent, as is trying to sign Christian Steele, rookie quarterback, to a mega-millions deal. But Myron gets a call from his prize client, who has received a photo of a girlfriend who disappeared a year earlier. Is it from someone who is trying to blackmail Steele? Or is the girlfriend still alive?
Coben's mysteries have complex plots, and unexpected twists and turns. His characters are not your stereotypical private eye and his sidekick. Coben does not disappoint! --SB

January 7, 2009