Blog

"Read 'em and weep." That phrase usually means you just won a hand of poker. In this case it describes what might happen to you when you read the letters of a young World War II soldier serving in the Pacific to a girl back home in Des Plaines.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. The Des Plaines History Center and Des Plaines Memory are presenting compelling stories of the people of Des Plaines who made selfless contributions to the war effort by serving abroad and on the homefront.

Continue Reading "Dear Gloria: WWII love letters to Des Plaines" →

The first book I've read to all three of my children was a wordless picture book, a book where the story is told through illustrations, without words or few words. Each one of my kids' continually changing reponse to Alexandra Days' Carl's Afternoon in the Park, has convinced me to recommend sharing wordless books to any parent. These books pack a powerful array of tools to develop the literacy skills needed to become a great reader.

Continue Reading "The Words Unwritten" →

For someone who dresses in black every day of the week, I sure love me some bright color and print.

I can't really explain the dichotomy, other than I just really like the color black. It looks good on me. And it always matches. And it's really easy to get dressed in a decent outfit in five minutes or less.  

Continue Reading "I’m beginning to see a pattern…." →

"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart." - Nelson Mandela

You’ve most likely heard all the reasons.

By learning another language you will:

• Improve your job prospects in a global market
• Learn about another culture
• Sharpen your mind
• Have more fun on a trip
• Make new friends
• Impress your old friends – maybe even your kids

Whatever your reason, we have resources that can help and even make it fun!

Continue Reading "Why learn another language?" →

January 19th is an exciting day for readers of Mystery and Suspense Fiction. What happens every January 19th?  I'll give you a hint.  Each year, this event falls on the birthday of the undisputed "Father of the Detective Story" (think beating hearts and ravens). 

Yes, it's the annual announcement of the Edgar Award Nominees, named after Edgar Allen Poe, and honoring the previous year's best Mystery and Suspense.

Continue Reading "What Happens Every January 19th?  It’s a Mystery!" →