Oh, Little Town by Don Reid

Don Reid’s face on the flyleaf of this book will look familiar to most of us. He is one of the Statler Brothers, a southern country/gospel group that has been around a while. Don writes music but also is a writer of fiction. This story is set in his native Virginia in the late 1950’s and introduces us to several of the citizens of Mt. Jefferson much like Staunton, Mr. Reid’s hometown. It is just a few days before Christmas and trouble is brewing. From troubled teens, troubled marriages, and troubled friendships, we and the characters in Oh, Little Town, learn some good lessons, the main one being forgiveness.
A story for all ages, Oh, Little Town is a quick read but won’t quickly be forgotten.
Judy Shirley 2-20-09

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Shaffer and Barrows

Imagine being allowed to peep into the private letters of a famous author as she writes to her publisher, her best friend and confidant, and to a newly found group of islanders who endured German occupation during WWll. Sometimes hilarious, often heart wrenching, these letters hold nothing back as they expose the most intimate thoughts and prayers of a unique and highly diverse people. What an awesome way to absorb history and have a great romp at the same time.

Read carefully and you might get an invitation to this very special society. Appropriate for young adult to old age, the book can be found at Barnes and Noble (or borrowed from Becky Simpson).