If you haven’t read Out of the Dust yet, there is still time to pick up a copy at the library and get it read before our May 5 Brownies & Booktalk . The book was written for middle schoolers, but it is of interest to readers of all ages. It is the story of Billie Jo growing up in the dust bowl of the 1930s. It is both heart-wrenchingly sad and surprisingly uplifting. Not only is the book a real treat, you will also have the opportunity to sample the baking skills of the library staff. I have a new recipe for a yummy, gooey chocolate-toffee brownie you will want to try.

Book publishing, and consequently library book purchasing, is seasonal. Just like the sales at Menards-lawnmowers in the spring and leafblowers in the fall, publishers push books at the public in cycles. They even rush the seasons just like Hobby Lobby does. You know how when you go in to pick up a little something for Valentines Day, and the stores have all moved on to 4th of July flags and Uncle Sam hats?

The publishers have been printing new plant and landscape books since last autumn. I sort of resent having to think about it before I’ve even started my Christmas shopping. I tried to get into the spring mood and we have been stocking up on books for gardeners all winter. There are some really terrific looking books this year. Even non-gardeners will appreciate the photos of lush landscapes and charming gardens.

P. Allen Smith has a lovely new book-P. Allen Smith’s Container Gardens. He is a well-known gardener with his own television show. His newest book contains recipes for planting in containers for decks and porches. Apparently the way I do it (go to the garden store, gather up an armload of what looks nice together) is not the optimal method. P. Allen seems to feel some plants require more sun than others, some more water and some need deeper pots. He feels that plants with similar requirements should be potted together. He may be on to something.

Christopher Lloyd’s Exotic Planting for Adventurous Gardens is also new. He was a very influential British gardener. This book was finished just before his 2006 death. I’m not brave (or adventurous) enough to try anything too exotic, but it’s fun to look. Many of his suggestions are quite stunning.

Also new are The Organic Lawn Care Manual, Covering Ground: Unexpected Ideas for Landscaping with Colorful, Low-Maintenance Ground Covers, Small Buildings, Small Gardens and Design Your Natural Midwest Garden. Come in; take a peek at what’s new @your library.

Do you like to listen to your books?

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