Not sure what to check out at the library? That’s o.k. A major perk of public libraries is the opportunity to come in without preconceived ideas of what you’re looking for and just check out books that catch your eye. I enjoy perusing the shelves for topics new to me, that broaden my interests. Smiley Library’s new book section is the perfect place to start browsing. Here are a few of the gems I found.
The title is what first captured my attention, “Tap Dancing on Everest: a Young Doctor’s Unlikely Adventure” by MiMi Zieman. A twenty-five-year-old medical student and only woman with a small expedition of mountain climbers acts as their support doctor as the team attempts a new and extremely dangerous route up the East Face of Everest without using supplemental oxygen or Sherpa support. This true story opens at Advanced Base Camp where Zieman and a photographer, Joe, search the endless white mountain slope for the climbing team, which is progressing toward the summit. It had been days since they last saw them. The team is in what is called the Death Zone, an elevation above 26,000 feet. Zieman explains that “no climber has ever survived more than three days in the Death Zone without supplemental oxygen.” It was now towards the end of day six. This memoir drew me in from its opening pages. Along with recounting her daring adventure, Zieman fill us in on her family background, upbringing as a daughter of Jewish immigrants in New York, her personal struggles, and path to Everest. An exceptional and honest read.
The cover is what got me on the next one. It shows a retro pic of four girls, looking hip and holding guitars. Mary McGlory and Sylvia Saunders tell their story in “The Other Fab Four: The Remarkable True Story of the Liverbirds, Britain’s First Female Rock Band.” It was 1962 when Mary, age 16, along with her friend and cousins, first saw The Beatles play at the Cavern Club in Liverpool and that’s precisely what inspired them to form an all-female band. Untroubled that no one knew how to play, or even owned instruments, they were determined to follow their dream. With a lot of practicing along the way, and few band-member changes, Mary, Valerie, Sylvia, and Pamela became the Liverbirds. Follow their story as they gained notoriety, played alongside the Kinks, and the Stones, and found an extensive fan base in Germany. Of course, in addition to reading their book, I had fun checking out their music videos, too.
After exploring our new books, head over to the displays, located near the front entrance and circulation desk. We change these out often, highlighting collections of topical interest. There are always unique items to peruse here. Gamers take note! Our current glass display case features a look into gaming’s past. Which retro games do you recognize? We’ve got video games for check out, too. They’re located at the end of our new book section by the reference desk.
Come in and find a treasure of your own. We’ll see you soon.