Our world has turned upside down since last month and we know that every one of us is grappling, trying to adapt to all the changes.

Jayne and Paula discuss what it's like to still be working at the library without borrowers! Most libraries are currently closed but don't worry, the ladies highlight a list of options for accessing the library online. Then they jump into this month's selection. TRIGGER WARNING! My Dark Vanessa contains themes of abuse, particularly sexual abuse of a minor. Those who wish not to hear this part can still listen to the beginning but then please skip to the 35 minute mark.

Note: at one point Paula mentions Hachette "authors" walking out in protest of Woody Allen's book. She misspoke and should have said "employees."

Find out about all of the online services they discuss via our Facebook post, here:

https://www.facebook.com/CityofMarionLibraries/photos/a.1094125443938847/3972379079446788/?type=3

Books they discuss:

My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell

Excavation: A Memoir by Wendy Ortiz

American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

Half a Life by Jill Ciment

Dear Girls by Ali Wong

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

Educated by Tara Westover

Apropos of Nothing by Woody Allen

Funny You Don't Look Autistic by Michael McCreary

The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning

Buried by Lynda La Plante

Mum & Dad by Joanna Trollope

More Myself by Alicia Keys

Glide, Taking the panic out of modern living by Lisa Forrest

Gathering Dark by Candice Fox

Sharks in the Time of Saviours by Kawai Strong Washburn

Links:

Wendy Ortiz's article

https://gay.medium.com/adventures-in-publishing-outside-the-gates-a06f089c372e

Variety article about Oprah's book club ditching My Dark Vanessa

https://variety.com/2020/tv/news/oprahs-book-club-my-dark-vanessa-american-dirt-controversy-1203525291/

This American Life podcast episode 689, Digging Up the Bones

https://www.thisamericanlife.org/689/digging-up-the-bones

Jayne and Paula announced the books for the next two months to give you lots to read! Both of these are accessible via the Libby app.

May: Maggie's Going Nowhere by Rose Hartley

June: Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks

Stay safe out there everyone! There's never been a better time to stay home and READ.