Book Blog

Do you have a dog or cat that's getting up in years? Here are a few books to help you extend your pet's longevity and maintain his or her joie de vivre. Caring for your Aging Cat and Caring for your Aging Dog, written by the same author, are organized similarly. Janice Borzendowski stresses the importance of proper nutrition, exercise, and routine . . . more »

Looking for something to read over the holidays? The New York Times Notable Books is always a good place to start! We've created a list of the NYT 100 Notable Books to make it easier for you to find these items in the catalog. Some of these items are bestsellers, but others are hidden gems that don't have a long waiting list right now. Notable . . . more »

Author and blogger Adam Roberts of amateurgourmet.com offers up a wealth of recipes, tips and tricks from some of America's top chefs in his new book Secrets of the Best Chefs. From all across the country and all types of cuisines, this beautifully photographed book is sure to delight with over 150 recipes from 50 chefs! Alice Waters, owner of the famous Chez Panisse restaurant . . . more »

SHINE SHINE SHINE (2012) By Lydia Netzger An author can hang a love story on any frame. I guarantee that the story of Sunny and Maxon is one of the quirkiest you will encounter, yet one that lingers. When Sunny, the perfect wife and mother smashes her SUV, her blond wig flies off, revealing a natural bald head and a true inner true self. Her . . . more »

Is all this rain making you feel cooped up inside at home? Why not do something fun to fight those rainy-day blues: bake a delicious treat! If you don’t already know, the Santa Clara County Library District owns thousands of cookbooks, enough to keep even the most ferocious chefs busy for days. Check out the list below of some of our newest arrivals that focus . . . more »

Getting together with friends and family during the holidays can be one of the season's greatest pleasures. However, if someone you'll be visiting is experiencing a difficult transition - unemployment, serious illness, or life without their mate of many years - you may not know how to respond. Should you mention their situation? If so, how? Should you offer to help? You'll find reassuring guidance . . . more »

As a lover of both history and fiction, I naturally love historical fiction! Often a good historical novel will pique my interest in the true story. The Tudors have inspired countless novels as well as non-fiction (and the prolific Alison Weir writes both!). Egyptian history has always fascinated me, especially women like Cleopatra and Nefertiti. Finally, I recently read and very much enjoyed The Paris . . . more »

The holidays are upon us. If you're like me, you may try to be thrifty and creative in your gift giving. Fortunately, there are great local options for unique, handmade gifts. If you're in the San Jose area, check out SJ Made December 1, 11- 6 at San Pedro Square Market. These are local makers, brands, labels, small businesses and artists. Also on December 1st . . . more »

It’s time to get your home ready for cold weather before winter.Take a few steps to prepare. When it rains, your gutters need to be clean.Check your furnace and ducts. Before you use your fireplace, be sure to have it inspected. Time to check your automatic sprinkler/irrigation systems. Some books that might help you are: The Complete Photo Guide to Home Improvement Ultimate Guide:Home Repair . . . more »

November brings Thanksgiving, and nearly every small child brings home a handprint turkey of some sort, whether made of paint, paper, or perhaps a colorful drawing. Tired of turkey? Try some different Fall crafts! It's as easy as collecting twigs, leaves, and seedpods and making a collage. Or, for a multitude of other little crafts, check out Nature's Art Box by Laura C. Martin. Here . . . more »