A Brand New Year

As 2012 begins, I am trying to become accustomed to being an ex-bookseller.  Owning The Open Book was one of the best things I ever did and just a few days after closing I already miss it like crazy. But, I have been assured that as doors close, windows will open and life will go on.  While I enjoyed most aspects of being a bookseller (except paying the bills and sweeping the floor),  I took the greatest pleasure in connecting books with readers.  I have started this blog so that I can continue to share my tips on what is new and what is great in the book world.  I hope you enjoy it and join the conversation by commenting on the posts and talking about your favorite books.

Did you know that many publishers release their newest books on Tuesdays?  I am not quite sure what the reason is.....I have heard that it allows retailers to spend Monday setting up displays.  It may be just a tradition.  In any case, if you wandered into The Open Book today, here are some new books that I would want you to consider.

The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar (HC $25.99) - I loved The Space Between Us by this author.  Her newest book focuses on four friends who grew up together in Bombay in the 1970s.  A reunion raises issues with each of the women as they revisit the past and face the future.

Running the Rift by Naomi Benaron (HC $24.95) - This book was in every bookseller's hand at last year's Book Expo.  This story of a young boy in Rwanda and the dangers he faces as he tries to pursue his dream to be a runner is said to be powerful and poignant.

The Confession by Charles Todd (HC $25.99) - This is the 14th novel by the mother/son writing team starring Inspector Ian Rutledge.  This detective, haunted by his actions in battle during WWI, is a complex and fascinating character.  The writers capture the feel of London and the surrounding countryside in the years between the two world wars.

Journal of Best Practices by David Finch ($25.00) - I cannot wait to read this memoir by a man who
decides to confront his newly diagnosed Asperger's Snydrome and try to be a better husband.  He keeps a Journal of Best Practices to remind him to, among other things, to not "change the radios station when she is singing along." Funny and touching, this sounds like my kind of memoir.

If, after the demise of The Open Book, you want to find a new independent bookstore to patronize, check out the Indie Bound website.  Many of these stores are able to fulfill your orders online.  If I cannot be your bookseller, I would love to see another indie get your business.

I hope everyone is enjoying the first few days of this new year with a good book. I hope you will subscribe to this new blog and comment often.  Keep those pages turning.......