OPENING LINE:
“When men plot to rule the world,” the old man said, “they do it in plain sight.”
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In an election year, it is good to have an alternative to the daily debates, attacks, posturing and relentless pressures of the real campaign. If you need that diversion, then follow this unlikely hero, the librarian, on an entertaining and complicated romp in the final days of a presidential campaign. Part thriller and part comedy and part parody, the plot follows the librarian’s rude awaking to the dark side of Washington politics, meeting both virtuous and dicey characters along the way to saving the world. Beinhart wrote American Hero which turned into the film Wag the Dog. This book is along that line in election coverage, but a different angle. Even though written in 2004, it is relevant today.
Check the BPL catalog for this title: The Librarian
GREAT LINE:
What was it about the Bay Area, that people always stuck around? The place was a vortex, an inverted pleasure dome on the banks of the frigid Pacific.
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No One You Know is the story of two sisters, very different, but intertwined tightly, especially after the tragic death of one. The family structure disintegrates with the weight of their grief. For the surviving sister to cope, she is driven to piece together the complete story of what actually happened, not the story that was published about her family in a popular true crime tome. Her quest is compelling story, exposing the human flaws in relationships, not being truthful, and how egos get in the way. Her quest also shows great love and devotion can overcome these. As a bonus, most of the action takes place in San Francisco and around the Bay, with some real life locals appearing.
Check the BPL catalog for this title: No One You Know