Minerva was busy in Roman times overseeing many aspects of life and culture. Our Adult Services Department has picked titles in each of her patron areas – read on to learn more about these books!
Wisdom – Life’s Journeys according to Mister Rogers by Fred Rogers and introduced by Joanne Rogers
This book can be a really quick read, or can be parsed out to a few quotes or thoughts a day over a longer period for a more contemplative experience. Whether you need some positivity or a thought provoking tidbit about life, this little book has it.
Medicine – Brain Health as You Age: A Practical Guide to Maintenance and Prevention by Steven Simmons, et al.
An easy to understand look at our most essential organ: the brain. As part of the aging process, how does one know what is normal? Or if there is a problem? Readers both young and old will find great tips in this excellent resource on how diet and exercise can lower the risk of cognitive decline.
Strategy and Warfare – The Art of War by Sun Tzu
This is historical classic in which the author discusses ancient Chinese military strategies. Originally written in Chinese, this book dates back to being written in 500 BC and is still considered to be applicable to modern day life. The Erie County Public Library has this title available in print, Playaway, and eAudiobook formats.
Arts – Ninth Street Women: Lee Krasner, Elaine de Kooning, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler: Five Painters and the Movement That Changed Modern Art by Mary Gabriel
This book was a fascinating look at some of our most famous modern women artists and how they broke into the male dominated world of abstract painting. Also interesting was the fact that two of these women were married to famous male artists (Lee Krasner to Jackson Pollock and Elaine de Kooning to William de Kooning), and all together they became some of our first celebrity couples during some of the most exciting and turbulent times of the modern era.
Trade – The $100 startup: reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future by Chris Guillebeau
If you are intrigued by the idea of starting your own business, Guillebeau offers a valuable summary of the principles a successful startup needs to master. Grounded in personal experience and over 50 case studies, this book is a quick read that gives advice for beginners that is easy to replicate.
Poetry – An American Sunrise: Poems by Joy Harjo.
Harjo, the Poet Laureate of the United States, frames this collection of poems with a map of the Trail of Tears in the opening pages. The trail reappears throughout the collection as Harjo presents themes of exile, travel, loss, tribal history, and family.
Handicrafts – Cutting Machine Crafts: Cricut, Sizzix, or Silhouette; Projects to Make with 60 SVG Files by Lia Griffith.
Minerva is the goddess of handicrafts and would be proud of our Idea Lab. This book shows you how to use the software in the Idea Lab to design your own cutouts, stickers, and decorations that you can then make with our equipment. If you’re feeling particularly generous, Minerva is always looking for decorative votive offerings…
Weaving – The Blood of Flowers by Anita Amerrzvani.
This novel takes readers to 17th century Persia, which is still known for its gorgeous carpet designs. A 14-year-old woman flourishes as a rug designer, but her skills lead her to danger and intrigue in what is defined as a male dominated industry.
