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Air date: Jan. 14, 2024
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JESSICA:
Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I’m the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.
Today's reading recommendations include unexpected human connections and practical money management strategies.
First, we’re going to hear from Paige, librarian at the Edmonds Library, who will transport us to a place where book lovers find more than just their favorite stories. Over to you, Paige.
PAIGE:
For all of us that work in customer service, there’s always that one regular grump. There’s something about them that you just want to tease just because they bring a smile to your face. For all of us who need a story that humanizes some of the characters we see every day, I give you “The Lonely Hearts Book Club” by Lucy Gilmore.
In northern Idaho, Sloane Parker, a public librarian, has been the only verbal sparring partner of local grouch Arthur McLachlan. Day in and day out, they continue to argue literary theory and perspectives on classification systems until one day, Arthur stops coming. What begins as a wellness check, turns into a book club filled with a rag tag team of readers and non-readers alike.
The “Lonely Hearts Book Club” is a heartwarming and gentle read for those of us who have binged some in-depth fantasies and need a break. I loved seeing each book club member’s perspective being highlighted and giving a sneak peek into their backstories. Sloane and the rest of the rag tag team are like the coworker you like working alongside, the kindly neighbor who always offers to bring food over, and that grouchy old man who is just like the Grinch, whose heart is a few sizes too small and a tongue as sharp as a knife.
JESSICA:
Thanks, Paige! That book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of stories.
Next, lets hear from Celeste, library associate for Library on Wheels, for a book that will hopefully leave you empowered. Take it away, Celeste.
CELESTE:
Have you made any new year’s resolutions? Do any of them have to do with money?
Today, let’s chat about the challenging topic of financial planning. After years of floundering, I decided to learn how to use my money better. I found many books in the library that reminded me YOU can take back control no matter your situation.
One book that stood out to me was “My Money, My Way: Taking Back Control of Your Financial Life” by Kumiko Love. Rated as “Best Books that Help of 2022,” millions have used her methods to change their budgeting life. As a financial counselor, Love inspires and equips you to make confident money decisions. She wrote this book after creating a plan that helped her eliminate $77,000 in debt on a single mom income. If your previous budgeting methods haven't worked it might be because they weren't designed by you or for you.
Reading this book, you will learn foundational practices to help get back on budget and head toward debt-free freedom. Each step is simply explained, making them practical and achievable. Today, she's living debt-free with her family in eastern Washington. Make 2024 the year where you take control of your financial future by reading “My Money, My Way” by Kumiko Love.
JESSICA:
Thanks, Celeste! The new year is a great time to take control of personal finances.
Our recommendations this week are: “The Lonely Hearts Book Club” by Lucy Gilmore and “My Money My Way: Taking Back Control of Your Financial Life” by Kumiko Love.
Join us next time, when we’ll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.
Until then, I’m Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.
Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz on KSER.
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Join us each Sunday as Sno-Isle Libraries staff discuss the latest buzz-worthy titles on our weekly radio program, Book Buzz.
