Plymouth Librarians' Choice

An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 by Jim Murphy.
Teen Zone Non-Fiction - Main Level - 614.541 M

Have you ever wondered what it was like to live during the birth of America? Well An American Plague by Jim Murphy provides a window into that time and specifically explores the yellow fever sickness that ripped through Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the hot summer and fall months of 1793. At the time, Philadelphia was our nation’s capitol and important national affairs were conducted within the city. However, once yellow fever hit, our nation’s capitol ground to a halt. Many inhabitants left the city, including our first president George Washington. In fact, the fear, pain, and death caused by yellow fever created a mass exodus of flight among Philadelphia's citizens.

Jim Murphy has written a gripping and true tale that is educational and interesting. Explored within its contents are: the yellow fever illness, how doctors treated it, theories of its causes, and how the city of Philadelphia dealt with this crippling tragedy. The account ends with a hopeful yet cautious tone of warning that such a tragedy could occur again if people do not remain vigilant in prevention of this disease. If you are looking for a fiction companion to this book you may want to try Fever, 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson.

Y The Last Man by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra
Adult Graphic Novels - Main Level - Y

The thought of being the last male on the planet is probably one almost every guy has dreamt about during the course of his life. However, for Yorick Brown this dream has become a nightmare reality. Following an unexplained plague that has left the world devoid of any males, Yorick and his pet monkey (who is also male) must help save what is left of humanity. The world is of course in chaos considering there is a large political and military vacuum left in the wake of the plague. Dispelling any sexist notions that males are solely responsible for violence and power plays, the women of the world are soon at each other’s throats in search of Yorick. To some he represents the last remnants of a patriarchy that must be cleansed, to others he is the key to unraveling the mysterious plague, and to a few he might just be a fun play toy.

At turns horrifying, hysterical, and action packed Brian K. Vaughn is able to create a fantastic world that could very well be our own. Armed with an arsenal of pop culture references, strong female characters, and surprising plot twists it’s no wonder Vaughn is also writing for Joss Whedon’s “Buffy Season 8 comic.” If that’s not enough of a recommendation Vaughn has also written some of the best episodes of the labyrinthine mosaic “Lost.” The artist Pia Guerra is able to visualize the characters and story in perfect sync with Vaughn’s writing creating yet another example of why graphic novels should be taken more seriously as a literary medium.

Up in Heaven by Emma Chichester Clark.
Picture Book Shelves - Lower Level - CLA

Arthur and Daisy are best friends who do everything together. Daisy is old, and one day she passes away. Arthur desperately misses her, but through touching dreams Daisy is able to convey to Arthur that she is happy and wants him to be happy too.

Up in Heaven by Emma Chichester Clark is a sweet story of love between a young boy and his beloved dog. Losing a pet is never easy, but this book will provide comfort, hope, and peace to the grieving child. The illustrations are bright and emotional--the perfect touch to this memorable picture book!

African Playground from Putumayo Kids.
Lower Level - Youth CD bins– Music, Multicultural

Putumayo Kids have produced several CD’s featuring music from around the world. The songs on African Playground span several countries, languages, rhythms and sounds. The music is as diversified as the number of countries represented. Each song is accompanied by a brief summary of either the song itself or some aspect of the country from which it originated. Lively music and unique instruments bring this album to life. Providing all of the lyrics in their native language along with an English translation when appropriate would be the one thing that would improve this CD.

Nice to Come Home To by Rebecca Flowers
Adult New Books Display - Main Level - Flowers

Prudence Whistler has always been just that – prudent. She’s always had a written plan for her life, and followed it to the letter. At 36, though, her plan is crashing down around her. She’s fired from her job at a non-profit and her boyfriend dumps her just as she had decided that he’d be an OK husband. Her younger sister, Patsy, is a single mother who believes in following her heart, and who’s still holding out for true love. Pru has always been sure that she’s better at life than Patsy – but a weekend trying to parent two-year-old Annali by herself as well as suddenly finding Patsy and herself in the same boat has her reconsidering. A crazy cat, a couple of gay best friends, a few NPR inside jokes, and some inappropriate romantic choices round out at lighten the story. Her search for a vocation, love and family is authentic and tender without losing the sense of fun.

Go! Scuba Dive by Monty Halls.
Adult Non-fiction 797.23H

Interested in Scuba Diving? Although scuba diving can be very rewarding, there are important safety precautions that should be taken. Monty Halls does a good job of addressing this by providing both a basic background and instructional information on this extreme sport. The focus of this book is not on photographing marine life of diving sites, but rather is designed as an overview of the sport. The pictures greatly enhance his how-to explanations.

For those who find it frustrating to learn techniques from a book, the book is accompanied with a DVD that provides the same basic information. The DVD is a wonderful addition as it allows the viewer to actually see what is happening. It is important to remember, however, that no amount of studying a book can compare to actually practicing the sport, but this book is a great introduction of what to expect or good for a quick refresher.