Notes from a small bookshop

We're back to discuss our favorite books, and more!

2008-06-24T17:36:00.003-05:00

My apologies for having been gone so long. It's taken me a while to regroup after we closed the store at the end of March. These last few angst-filled months have been good for taking stock of where I am professionally, and where I think I might be going as we move ahead.

I'm listing books on the internet, via an Amazon account for now. We just received a large inventory of books from a secondary seller in Morton Grove, so I'll be listing those as well. They're super books-lots of art books, science and nature, philosophy, and technical journals. I can't wait to start getting them online.

I'm also doing some consulting for a product development company in the nearby town of Elgin. It's a great group, with smart, talented people. I'm looking forward to helping them build their business by bringing in some of my own.

In my spare time I've been journaling and working on a system of GTD--for those not in the know, GTD is "Getting Things Done." I guess you could say that I'm a gearhead: I love tools of all kinds, so I've been having a little love affair with researching systems, and of course, supplies. Right now my candidates for GTD are an index card system, a Filofax-like leather notebook binder with loose-leaf calendar pages, plain paper, and an address book, and finally a beautiful little rugged leather case that I bought from Renaissance Arts that contains my pocket Moleskine, a hipster PDA, a Zebra 301 compact pen, and a red gel pen.

My journal's in a large Moleskine.

While this blog will continue to focus on books and reading, it will also cover aspects of creativity, writing, art, and music. I'll look forward to our continuing dialogue.

What Makes Great Bedside Reading?

2008-01-15T14:08:00.000-06:00

There are all kinds of readers. Some of us enjoy fiction, others mysteries (a kind of fiction, of course) or history, and some, including myself, like to read non-fiction across many categories. Nine'll getcha ten that most of us read before we go to sleep at night. Books are a kind of narcotic. It doesn't matter if they're good or bad, they'll put you to sleep every time.

I'm one of those people who usually has several books on my bedside table. Right now there's a great new book called The Rest is Noise, by Alex Ross, on the top of the stack. It's a study of modernism in music, from Richard Strauss to the Velvet Underground. Since my focus as an art history major was American and European modernism in the visual arts and architecture, I'm naturally interested in corresponding movements in literature and music. Actually, I was thinking about how well the book's cover design fits the book's theme and modernism in general. Much of modernism regards minimalism and discordance (expressed through music as atonality) as an essential aspect of its form. Think Mies van der Rohe's "Less Is More" quote. The beautifully minimalistic book cover conveys this notion both in its title and design.

The next book is a biography of R. Crumb, the counterculture cartoonist renowned for his drawing of Mr. Natural in the 1960's. Mr. Natural is an icon for an age many of us remember with great nostalgia. I talked about Crumb's influence on my art in one of my previous blogs. Iconoclastic yes, but hardly minimal, Crumb's art is richly thematic and textured.

Next down the pile is the Alice B. Toklas Cookbook, which is fascinating for the author's personal reminiscences of life in Paris during the first half of the twentieth century with Gertrude Stein, Picasso, Hemingway, and many others. I especially enjoyed reading the recipe for Haschiche Fudge!

More about bedside reading in a future blog!

Joining the Crowd at Steeplejack

2008-01-11T10:44:00.000-06:00

Well, a new year is here. Thought I'd bring you all up to date on what's been happening at Steeplejack Books. We're taking advantage of Matt's break from Bard to put him to work helping us rearrange the store.

The Christmas decorations had to come down, which is kind of a huge project in itself. It all has to be organized and packed into a tiny storage space. Some of it is still in Marty's van, waiting to be unpacked and brought to various generous owners' homes.

We also rearranged our books. Now our classics have their own room! We moved them into the small room with the philosophy and poetry, which makes a great place to sit quietly and peruse some serious reading materials. The smell of the Lavender Cafe's freshly ground coffee permeates the room, and there's no cozier place to spend your time.

Mystery and Suspense is now separate from Fiction, and we'll be focusing more on this category in the upcoming year. We're in the early stage of planning for several authors' events. Many of these writers also specialize in the mystery/suspense/thriller category. Stay tuned to hear more about this.

Well, more to come later. In the meantime, here are some photos of Matt and Colleen during one of our festive afternoons in the shop.

Why You Want To Visit Steeplejack Books this Monday

2007-12-13T16:42:00.000-06:00

Edgar Award-winning author Theresa Schwegel is coming to Steeplejack Books this Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. to sign copies of her most recent novel, Person of Interest. Ms. Schwegel is making her second appearance at Steeplejack, having come to our store last December to sign copies of her book, Probable Cause. Her first book, Officer Down won the Edgard Award for Best First Novel in 2005.

Anyone interested in owning or giving a copy of Ms. Schwegel's newest book won't be disappointed. Ms. Schwegel writes compellingly about the Chicago police force, and weaves plots of intricacy featuring protagonists who are both sympathetic and troubling.

Critics love her, and accolades have been plentiful. Person of Interest was recently named one of Publisher's Weekly's best books of 2007.

Entertainment Weekly just named Person of Interest a pick of the week, saying, "Theresa Schwegel, an Edgar winner for her debut, Officer Down, weaves ... three subplots together not only for quickening suspense but also to achieve something more. She creates a portrait of a family in crisis, and her vivid characterizations - stressed husband, yearning wife, floundering daughter - lift the thriller plot of Person of Interest to literary-novel status."

On December 10th, Janet Maslin of The New York Times wrote, "Last year Ms. Schwegel herself became a person of interest when she won the Edgar Award for best first novel (Officer Down) from the Mystery Writers of America, a group that's especially savvy in picking prizewinners. Her new book confirms that its confidence in Ms. Schwegel was well placed, [with a] terrifically vigorous plot."

Hope you can join us on Monday evening. We'll have treats on hand too!

Holiday Cheer at Steeplejack

2007-12-04T14:25:00.000-06:00

We had a great time at Dickens in Dundee on Friday night. The store was crowded with a lot of folks who had never been in before. Marty's peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies were gone in a flash, and our gracious neighbor Lois brought some delicious sugar cookies that were snapped up during the first hour. Thank you, Lois!

June and Ollie were a hit, as always, and it seemed June had as good a time as anyone, judging from her ever-present smile in the photos I took. Jeanne, Joel, Nora, and Diana ended the evening here in the store with me. One of the photos here shows Diana and Nora studying a fun children's book called Looka-Likes". I think both of these photos tell the story of why I love Steeplejack Books so much. Our common experience here in the store often seems like we're a big extended family.

Why You Don't Want to Miss Dickens in Dundee

2007-11-30T12:30:00.000-06:00

Tonight is the Dickens in Dundee festival in East and West Dundee. Our friends at the Lavendar Cafe will be serving wonderful holiday cookies, specially made by chef Klaudia, along with delicious hot drinks. Their sandwiches and wraps are mouth-watering, and just wait till you see the phenomenal pastry case!

Mrs. June Wolk and her dog Ollie will be in our live window this evening. Other windows in town will feature carolers and actors in various vignettes that will be great fun to watch from the sidewalk. There'll be a tree-lighting ceremony at the Village Hall next door and lots of other fun activities. In the spirit of Christmas countdowns, I'll give you 5 good reasons you don't want to miss the festivities here in Dundee:

1. Our historic downtowns, Main Street/Rt. 72 in West Dundee and North River Street in East Dundee are lovely during this time of year. Windows are lit and covered with greenery. The charm of our villages really comes to life during the holiday season.

2. It's a great time to visit with your family and friends. First together as audience to the festivities, and secondly to meet your friends and neighbors, many of whom will turn out tonight for the camaraderie and fun window decorations.

3. Scrumptious treats will be available. Emmett's Tavern, Francesca's, the Squire, and M.T. Barrels will no doubt be busy. At Steeplejack we'll have cookies, hot cider, and coffee for your enjoyment while you browse the shelves.

4. We're offering a 20% discount through Sunday for customers on our email mailing list. But if you see this blog and mention it, we'll be glad to give you the same discount throughout the weekend.

5. Santa's coming to town! Tomorrow morning at 10:00 is the annual Dickens in Dundee parade. Santa arrives on a big red fire engine. As I recall. Don't hold me to it.

Hope to see you this weekend.

Our Very Own Steeplejack Books Mug!

2007-11-30T11:42:00.003-06:00

I wanted to show you a photo of a new Steeplejack coffee mug I ordered this week from cafepress.com. It has our logo on it, featuring our good boy, Jack. We don't have duplicates of this one-of-a-kind mug, since we'd have to order in significant quantity (complete with associated cost) to get any price breaks. This one costs $15.99, including shipping, so it's a little cost prohibitive, but we can have more made, if there's any interest.

Jack is in the hospital this week, suffering from cluster seizures. He's resting comfortably, and he'll be home this afternoon. Looks like we need to have some more testing, since his vet can't figure out exactly what's going on with him.

Also, a reminder that tonight's Dickens in Dundee. Hope to see you here for the festivities!

Behind the Scenes at Steeplejack Books

2007-11-27T12:13:00.000-06:00

We have a back room that's rarely seen by our customers, but it's where a lot of the action happens.

Unfortunately, things happen quickly--really quickly sometimes, and before you know it, our little storage space is a disaster. Many times I've had to wade through piles of books, balancing on the side of one foot, to reach an unshelved mystery or classic.

Other times we're balancing on a wobbly stool to grab the scanner from the top shelf, so we can scan a book or another photo for Facebook, our blog, or eBay.

Two friends have been really helpful in keeping our backroom organized. The queen of all organization is Diana. And we were thrilled yesterday to have our other organizer stop in on the last day of Thanksgiving break. Matt was duly impressed by Diana's organization--the floor is book-free, our packing and shipping supplies are neatly placed into boxes (and labeled!) in our little storage cabinet, and our meager kitchen supplies are stacked nicely around the microwave and refrigerator.

In the photo you'll see some large white sheets on the bottom of a wire cart. Those are Brodart covers. One of these clear archival covers looks beautiful on a somewhat ragged dust jacket, and it will look great on a brand new book too. Some people like to keep their books pristine--count me in that category, and I love to cover the hardcovers we're keeping in our own library.

If anyone wants us to cover their new or gently used book let us know. It'll be $2.00 per book. Well worth it if you want your covers to last forever!

Got Cookbooks?

2007-11-24T12:48:00.000-06:00

Do you have any cookbooks that you'd like to bring to Steeplejack Books for trade credit? We're looking for books with recipes, since the holidays are upon us and with them all types of holiday entertainment, which usually involves some sort of kitchen chemistry.

So, if you have any cookbooks you don't need on your shelf these days, please feel free to bring them in. We'd be thrilled to take them, as long as they're in good condition and what we'd consider to be salable. Thanks, folks!

A Little Bookshop Gives Thanks

2007-11-21T15:34:00.000-06:00

Marty and I want thank all of our family, friends, and loyal customers who have helped make our small shop a success. As we give thanks tomorrow for all of the goodness the world offers us, our gratitude will be greater for the wonderful people we've met since we opened the store 21 months ago.

Just in case we miss any names tomorrow, though you'll be with us in spirit, thank you to Diana, Jeanne, June, Julie, Marilyn, Colleen, Chris, Julia, Brian, Sam, Chris, Mike, Jim, Brad, Nick, Brian, Emily, Monica, Allison, Tab, Keri, Josh, Jack, Jackie, Krista, Anna, Ryan, Tami, Tim, Carol, Bob, Marj, Christine, LuAnne, Larry, MaryLynne, and Janice. And many, many more who've supported us since the get-go.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Homage to Loyal Customers

2007-11-20T06:17:00.000-06:00

Today I want to thank a few of our most loyal customers, Chris and Colleen Catania. Colleen and Chris came to the store soon after we opened and have been coming back ever since.

They have helped us immeasurably, with ideas for our blog and our website and the store. They've offered to dress as books, standing outside to help bring attention to the shop. I believe Steeplejack Books embodies the spirits of every caring customer. Chris and Colleen are the heart and soul of Steeplejack.

Here's a link to their website Click Here For Drywater Media

Thank you, kind friends.

Fall Departs, Winter Arrives at Steeplejack Books

2007-11-19T07:54:00.000-06:00

Now that the temperature's grown more brisk, and the leaves are nearly raked, it's just about time to settle in for a cozy winter here in northern Illinois. We're getting ready for Christmas here at Steeplejack too. This week the tree is going up in one of the windows, and we're setting up a fireplace and a rocking chair for Mrs. June Wolk and her dog Ollie, who are going to appear in the store on Friday evening, November 30th, for the annual Dickens in Dundee festival.

I love this time of year. The rich colors of autumn are just about over, but there's a lovely gray haze in the air which reminds me of warm lamplight, a crackling fireplace and of course, a good book.

We have a great selection of fiction here in the store, so I hope you'll stop by soon to browse our shelves for your winter reading. Don't forget that even if we don't have a copy of the newest and most talked-about book, we're certain to have many great books that you'll enjoy just as much. Just ask us for a recommendation, and I can assure you you'll leave with something you'll enjoy. That's a promise that comes with a 100% guarantee, or your money back.

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you about the hot coffee and Marty's famous peanut butter cookies. The latter are here at Steeplejack for a limited time. Unless you tell us otherwise. Don't miss them!

5 Great Reasons to Enjoy Art Trading Cards

2007-11-15T15:28:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard of art trading cards? I came across these when I was looking at Moleskine art on the internet. Art Trading Cards (ATC's) are small cards that are traded between artists.

ATC's were popularized on the internet after an exhibition in Zurich, Switzerland in 1997. There are only 2 rules with Art Trading Cards: They must be 3.5" x 2.5", and they cannot be sold, only traded.

ATC's can be made of many different media, and the results are limited only by their size (which many, including myself, consider a distinct advantage) and the creativity of their creators. You can use collage, pencil, watercolor or other painted media, found objects, and even fabric to create your cards.

We sell cases for trading cards here at Steeplejack Books, and the cards are now the rage with kids in the neighborhood. Parents can even work on the cards at home with their children to trade between family members, as one family here in town does.

I've started a jazz series, which is inspired by counterculture artist R. Crumb, who created a famous series of blues musicians. My little collection is modest so far, but I hope to expand it as time allows. Photo credits to Anton Corbijin (Miles Davis) and The Frank Driggs Collection (Duke Ellington and Charlie Parker).

If you want to learn more about ATC's, check out Artist Trading Card Workshop, by Bernie Berlin. It's full of inspirational photos and techniques to get you started.

Now, for the 5 Reasons to Enjoy ATC's:

1. They're miniature, so you don't have to obsess too much about how to fill the page.

2. They're neat little collectibles, that are a pleasure to create and to share with friends and family.

3. ATC's are real art! They'll keep your chops in practice.

4. They're portable. With handy little plastic cases, they can fit in your pocket or purse, ready for your next swap.

5. ATC's can be a beautiful expression of your own individuality.

The Road Less Traveled

2007-11-14T15:38:00.002-06:00

While we're on the subject of alternative dwellings, let me introduce another book that I loved. Blue Highways, by William Least Heat Moon, is a book about traveling that was written in 1982. It has since become an American classic.

William Least Heat Moon undertook a journey in his half-ton Ford van, Ghost Dancing, with the goal of journeying entirely on America's back roads. Robert Penn Warren called the book a masterpiece, "a magnificent and unique tour" of our country's unsung traditional back country. As he drives the hills, valleys and back roads of America's highway, Least Heat Moon meets waitresses, coal miners, priests, barkeeps, and fellow travelers, all of whom have a unique story to tell.

But certainly the most captivating experience is the author's. Unlike Steinbeck, who traveled with his dog, Charley, Least Heat Moon took to the roads by himself. Loneliness came frequently, but his interest in discovery never waned, and this book, more than a simple travelogue, is a metaphor for self-discovery. If you're interested in enjoying a different kind of America than that which is now overrun with fast food chains and big box stores, pick up of copy of this book. I'll bet you'll be inspired to take the road less traveled.

Interested in Alternative Shelter?

2007-11-13T15:30:00.001-06:00

I've long been fascinated by creative kinds of dwellings. This probably started when I began to read about car and van dwelling, but over the years my interest has expanded to tiny houses and alternative residences.

Two books that I recommend highly are Lester Walker's Tiny Tiny Housesand Lloyd Kahn's Home Work: Handbuilt Shelter. Tiny Tiny Houses provides a fascinating look at teeny homes, none of which exceeds 325 square feet. Floor plans, heating and plumbing systems are included, as are detailed photos and illustrations of each plan. If you've ever dreamed of a super minimalist lifestyle, this book is one you want to spend time poring over. I don't think the original is still in print, but I recently ran across the Tiny Book of Tiny Tiny Houses, which is a minature version of the original. I have many favorite plans in this book, but I guess the most memorable is the writer's studio fashioned from an outhouse. That's some creativity!

Home Work: Handbuilt Shelter is chock full of fantastic color photos of all sorts of alternative dwellings, numbering 1100 in all. There are also over 300 drawings to study, and enough text to keep you engaged for weeks on end. The photos are so captivating that you can look at it hundreds of times and still find new details to enjoy. Yurts, igloos, tipis, school busses and sod sheds are just some of the pictures you'll find in this wonderful book. I have a special fondness for the interior shots, but there's definitely something here for everyone.

Home Work: Handbuilt Shelter can be purchased new, so let me know if you'd like us to order a copy for you or that certain person in your life who loves building and buildings. This one's a winner.

Santa's Villlage Author to Appear at Steeplejack Books

2007-11-02T11:09:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, Saturday, November 3rd, noted author Phillip L. Wenz will appear at Steeplejack Books to sign copies of his book, Santa's Village. Mr. Wenz was Santa's Village's resident Santa Claus and official historian.

Opened in 1959, Santa's Village was a central attraction for kids and their parents all over the Fox River Valley. Visitors came from far away to enjoy the park's rides, holiday events, parades, and to visit Santa's House. Santa's Village was a memorable part of my own childhood. I remember visiting as a child, with my mom and aunt Sally, and all of their kids in tow.

My sister-in-law Kim, Marty and I took my nieces when they were toddlers, and had great fun on the rides. Marty remembers taking the Liv and Torie on the roller coaster.

Please join us tomorrow from 1:00 to 3:00 to purchase your own copy of Phil Wenz's book. Santa's Village would make a great Christmas present for special people on your Christmas list. We'll have coffee and cookies available too. Hope to see you here!

Happy All Saints Day

2007-11-01T12:25:00.000-05:00

I'd hoped to get to this last night, while the visit from our only trick-or-treaters, Nora and Gillian was still fresh in my mind, but thought we might take the occasion to celebrate a day late.

Gillian and Nora brought their friend Mr. Bunny in for Halloween, along with their moms, Sue and Jeanne, respectively. The girls and moms met in a play group many years ago and it's a tradition to trick-or-treat together every Halloween.

I forgot to find out if Mr. Bunny does any tricks, and now that I think of it, we didn't offer him any treats either. Maybe next year.

Hope everyone had a great Halloween!

Ready, Set, Collect

2007-10-25T17:29:00.000-05:00

Did you know Steeplejack Books has a growing collection of vintage and collectible books? Some are even signed! We have an autographed copy of Carl Sandburg's The American Songbook, a signed copy of Thornton Wilder's Our Town, and a volume called In Our Time signed by Tom Wolfe, among many other signed copies in our collection. Many of our collectible books are leather-bound, and would make great Christmas gifts.

We have many classic titles, including a two-volume leatherbound set of Atlas Shrugged, a two-volume set of Journals of the Expedition, by Lewis and Clark, and a beautiful leatherbound volume of Plato's Republic. One of my favorites is a book called My Side: The Autobiography of Ruth Gordon, which is signed by the author. Many of us remember Ruth Gordon's portrayal of Maude in the classic cult film, Harold and Maude. She's the character who inspired the phenomenon of "Maudianism," the philosophy of living life to the fullest.

And even those who don't remember Ms. Gordon's name will recall her role as the solicitous but sinister Minnie Castevet in Rosemary's Baby. Come to think of it, wouldn't that be a great film to see during this super-scary time of year?

A Good Time Was Had By All

2007-10-23T16:42:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday we had a special event in the store. Michigan writer Jennifer Parello appeared at Steeplejack Books to sign her new book, Dateland. A few dozen of Jennifer and Hol's friends and some of our own friends showed up for the festivities, which began at 6:00 p.m., and which were catered by chef Klaudia from the Lavender Cafe.

The best way I can describe the celebration is that it was an evening that started with nervousness and a certain amount of dignity which evolved into a joyous occasion of camp. Impersonations of Katherine Hepburn preceded Lisa Grayson as the Chiquita Banana singer:

"I'm Chiquita banana and I've come to say - Bananas have to ripen in a certain way- When they are fleck'd with brown and have a golden hue - Bananas taste the best and are best for you - You can put them in a salad - You can put them in a pie-aye - Any way you want to eat them - It's impossible to beat them - But, bananas like the climate of the very, very tropical equator - So you should never put bananas in the refrigerator."
Music © 1945 Shawnee Press Inc.

These delicious lyrics were followed by show tunes from Sweeney Todd and Oklahoma. A raucous conga dance was the icing on the cake.

Thanks to all who came to help celebrate, and a special thank you to Jennifer and Holly for their generosity and for making Saturday a night to remember for the ages.

What and How to Write

2007-10-19T09:54:00.000-05:00

There's so much more to say about Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird that I thought I'd talk a little more about it today. Ms. Lamott offers instructions for getting started, first by writing everything you can remember about yourself and your history. Remember the sights and smells, how things sounded, and how rooms looked. Write every day, no matter whether or not you want to. Write about silly, happy and painful things.

Later, add dialogue. Of course, we don't remember much about what our family, friends, or casual acquaintances said many years ago. But even if we can't recall it exactly, we must create a voice for each of our characters. Each must have a different idiom, or way of talking. "What CAN she mean?" one might ask. Well. I see exactly what she's saying. Yes! I get it!! This is a rough example, but I hope you get the idea.

Carry a little book and jot down observations that you might be able to use later. Bits of dialogue, the color of the sky on a moonlit night, the sound of a catfight, or of your own cat's soft chittering while she watches squirrel through an attic window. The look on your Aunt Sally's face when your cousin says that he's planning to move to Tasmania for 6 months. Just in case you don't have your little book with you, get used to carrying a few index cards and a pen with you everywhere. Ms. Lamott puts one of each in her back pocket when she takes her dog for a walk.

Try hard to be honest with your feelings and precise with your words. I read Strunk and White's Elements of Style after college, and it's one of my favorite books of all time. Among many useful tactics, the most important advice for me was to use as few words as possible to make a point. Less is more. Never use a big word when a small one will do. Don't say "utilize." Use "use" instead. Write naturally, in your own voice, and write often.

Write one draft. Edit, and then re-write. Keep writing, then show a friend or someone else you trust. "Listen to your Broccoli." If you want to know more about that technique you'll need to read Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird.

Some Instructions on Writing and Life

2007-10-18T10:58:00.001-05:00

I just finished reading Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird. It's a first-rate manual about the craft of writing, a standard used in writing workshops throughout the country.

Anne Lamott's warm humor shines through her book, as it does through her novels, inspired by her life as a Christian, recovering alcoholic, and single mother to her son, Sam. Her work proves that painful experience, coupled with faith, inspired wit, and diligent application of one's craft can make everyday life into a series of small miracles.

Read Bird by Bird, her classic Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith, or any other of Ms. Lamott's books and enjoy some profundity wrapped in wit with a smidgeon of garnishing grace. Let us know if you'd like us to order any of Anne Lamott's books for you!

We Meet the Best People...

2007-10-17T10:32:00.001-05:00

I've been away for a while and haven't blogged, so apologies to all who check the blog diligently. I promise to keep updating as much as possible, so please stay posted. In the meantime, I wanted to share a wonderful piece of correspondence we received by email. John is studying Computer Game Technology in Dundee. This just goes to show you that we DO meet the most fascinating, engaged, and intelligent persons at Steeplejack Books! Thank you again, John, for your interest in our little bookshop.

Hi,

I just wanted to let you know ... I came across your bookstore website while searching for bookstores in Dundee. It sounds like a great place, but I could not find it on the Google map of Dundee!!!

I finally typed the whole address into google maps ... " 125 W. Main Street, West Dundee" and the result was a zoomed in map showing your location. GREAT. So I zoomed out a bit... but it did not look familiar. I've only been here in Dundee for about a month... but I know the city pretty well... and I did not recognize anything. Until I suddenly realized, I was looking at Illinois!!!!

From your website, I was convinced that you must be a cozy little bookstore, tucked in some back street, here on the west end of Dundee, Scotland!! I'm here getting my Master's degree... and the thought of sitting at a table in a local bookstore, working on homework and talking about social issues with the locals sounded really appealing!!!

Oh well, next time I'm in Illinois I'll be sure to stop by. Thanks for the distraction and you have a great website!!!

-John

John Pile Jr
(An Alaksan in Dundee, Scotland)

Bookmarks for a Small Bookshop

2007-10-02T16:33:00.000-05:00

This is a short blog to introduce some of our new bookmarks. These were inspired by a visit I had last week by a rep from a well-known giftware company. As I looked through her catalogs I was struck by how sappy and uninspired their lines of bookmarks looked.

So, I thought why not do our own? I have a lot of my photographs here on my computer and decided to start with those. Bought some sleeves and tassels, and there you have it. We're selling these and more here in the store for $2.50 each. I hope you like them.

7 Reasons to Buy a Moleskine

2007-10-01T13:05:00.000-05:00

I love my Moleskines. I bought my first one, a gridded pocket Moleskine, about 5 years ago, and use it to record all of my most important bits of information. I've used it for photography pose references, exposure data, driving directions, quotes, phone numbers, and sketches.

A few months ago I bought a plain notebook for my drawings. It contains sketches in watercolor, ballpoint pen, markers, and pencils, both color and graphite.

There is a cult of Moleskines, evidence of which can seen on Moleskinerie.com. See my favorite links to go to that website. Sometimes also I google moleskine art flickr to see what others are doing with their Moleskines. When the rep from Kikkerland came into our store last fall and told me I could carry them in the store I didn't hesitate for a second. We now carry pocket and larger Moleskines. Now, on to the first seven reasons to enjoy a Moleskine.

1. Moleskines are compact.
You can carry them in your purse, briefcase, or laptop case, or you can put one in your glove compartment so you always have a notebook with you when you're on the road.

2. Moleskines bring out your most creative self.
They contain neat little blank pages that are just waiting to be written or drawn on, and since you can have one with you all the time, they lie in wait for your inspirations. The pages lie flat when your Moleskine's open, so it's easy to write or draw across two pages.

3. Moleskines are well constructed.
They are hand-stitched and made of acid-free paper, and contain a sturdy black cover (no, it's not made of moleskin). Each Moleskine has a ribbon marker, and an elastic band to hold it closed or to mark a page. Each also contains an expandable inner pocket.

4. Moleskines have a rich heritage.
The Moleskine is the legendary notebook of Hemingway, Picasso, Matisse, Van Gogh, Oscar Wilde, and Chatwin.

5. Moleskines make great gifts.
Moleskines are simple, elegant and compact. They are also inexpensive. A Moleskine is the perfect present for the inspired, organized or creative person on your gift list.

6. Moleskines are hip and retro at the same time.
Moleskine users respond to the tactile, portable quality of their Moleskines. There is a definite trend by people to write in their Moleskines rather than on their computers, since they enjoy the feeling of pen or pencil directly on quality paper. There are enduring debates on the internet about which pen is best. The Pilot G2 and the Fisher Space Pen are frequently mentioned. I like to use a Zebra F-301 ballpoint pen or a Pentel P205 mechanical pencil with a .5mm lead for my writing and drawing.

7. Moleskines are Analog.
You never have to recharge them!

Try one, you'll like it.

A Dog Named Jack

2007-09-27T10:50:00.000-05:00

Did you know Steeplejack Books is named for a dog? Jack is a big black dog who is as kind and gentle as ever a dog was. He is also a courtly gentleman who is never so happy as when he can sit quietly at your side with his forearm draped over your wrist.

I found Jack one day in Niles on my way home from work. He was a skinny puppy following a guy down a sidewalk on Dempster Street, near the I-294 ramp toward Indiana. I put him in my car so he wouldn't be run over, and drove toward the ramp wondering what I'd do with him. When he laid his trusting little head on my arm I knew I'd never give him up.

Jack has epilepsy, so he needs to take drugs to help stave off his seizures. He's slowed down a bit over the last few years, but his heart is as big as the world. And my heart has grown bigger because of him and all he has brought into our lives. Including the bookstore, which name he inspired for his dignity and gentle grace.

13 Reasons to Admire Crones

2007-09-24T10:38:00.000-05:00

First let me tell you about Diana. Diana started as an anonymous customer of Steeplejack Books, when we first opened. Soon she was dropping off beautiful books as "donations" to the store. One day she told Tim, who was working in the store that day, about a big book sale in a nearby town. We still didn't know her name, and since Tim was unable to describe her, I had no way to thank her for the great tip. Fortunately, Diana asked me one day how I'd liked the sale. Finally, I had a name to go with her face.

Since that day, Diana, Marty and I have become good friends. Diana often helps me in the store on her days off, and is an invaluable part of the ethos of Steeplejack, lending her kind, studious expertise to our book selection and our customers.

Now, on to Crones. Diana and I talk often about the wisdom of crones. Last weekend Diana brought a book for me to read. It's a refreshing look at the third stage of the lives of women, from maiden, to mother, to crone. The word crone derives from "crown," an allusion to royalty and wisdom. Unfortunately it has a perjorative meaning to many people, who think of a crone as a hag (which, incidentally, derives from "hagio," meaning saintly), or an ugly old woman.

Crones Don't Whine," by Jean Shinoda Bolen, M.D. states, "to aspire to be a crone is to want the psycholgical and spiritual growth that she symbolizes. The crone is an archetype. An inner potential that we grow into being."

Here are 13 reasons to admire crones, according to Dr. Shinoda:

1. Crones don't whine
2. Crones are juicy
3. Crones have green thumbs
4. Crones trust what they know in their bones
5. Crones meditate in their fashion
6. Crones are fierce about what matters to them
7. Crones choose the path with heart
8. Crones speak the truth with compassion
9. Crones listen to their bodies
10. Crones improvise
11. Crones don't grovel
12. Crones laugh together
13. Crones savor the good in their lives

All compelling reasons, these, to aspire to cronehood. Dr. Shinoda says also that "exceptional men can be crones." So hail to crones throughout the world, so that we may change it crone by crone. Starting with the election of an exceptionally experienced crone next November.

If you would like to buy a copy of this book, send me an email through Steeplejackbooks.com, or comment on this blog.

Jazz Recordings: A 90 Year Celebration

2007-09-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

I was in Steeplejack Books a couple times this week and mentioned to Kim that we need to sit down and set business aside for a while to have a serious jazz discussion. There’s an audiophile forum that I belong to which I visit many times a day but there’s only so much one can learn without actually chatting face to face and ear to ear with others who feel passionately about the same topics. When I read Kim’s recent blog post about reading groups, I suggested we get a jazz chat going as well. So why not? If you’re up for it, stop by the store and let Kim know. Even if you don’t fancy yourself to be a connoisseur of jazz but perhaps you’d like to just listen in on what we all have to say, you’re more than welcome. What I would like to do is bring a couple of my portable phonographs and some choice 78s from my collection to play. To me, there’s something magical about hearing some vintage jazz on an acoustical wind-up phonograph.

In the blog title, I mention a 90 year celebration. Well, it was 90 years ago when the first commercial jazz record was released. It was by a group called the Original Dixieland Jass Band featuring Nick LaRocca on cornet, Larry Shields on clarinet, Eddie Edwards on trombone, Harry Ragas on piano, and Tony Sbarbaro on drums. Recorded on the 26th of February in 1917, “Livery Stable Blues” was one of a handful of tunes at a landmark session for Victor Records in New York City. There are all sorts of controversies regarding this song. The songwriters, Ray Lopez and Alcide “Yellow” Nuñez, didn’t register a copyright on the song. Original Dixieland Jass Band leader Nick LaRocca then claimed it was his own composition, but under the name “Barnyard Blues”. From what I’ve read, the court battle went on for another decade until the judge decided that neither Lopez & Nuñez nor LaRocca deserved to hold the copyright. I could go on and on about different controversies surrounding this group, but it’s the music that truly matters to me. We’re lucky to have it.

So from my digital archive, here is the original recording of “Livery Stable Blues”, the very first commercially released jazz recording. Just click here and the mp3 file should begin downloading or playing for you. Please note, this was one of my earliest remastering attempts from a number of years ago, so please forgive the sound quality. I also feel that a lot of the aforementioned magic is gone once these acoustically recorded 78s get transferred to the digital domain. But try this: turn your computer speakers as high as they can go without blowing them out (this should replicate the tremendous volume at which a period Victrola would reproduce the sound of the original disc), sit back, close your eyes, and take a trip back to 1917.

A Book That Changed My Life

2007-09-20T10:33:00.000-05:00

There are a handful of books that have had a permanent effect on my life. Your Money or Your Life, by Joe Dominguez and Vicki Robin is one of those books.

Your Money or Your Life's central premise is that money is the equivalent of life energy. Most of us work for money, expending our life's energy to earn it. What this book does is tip the idea of working more and harder to earn ever-increasing amounts of money on its head. Dominguez and Robins highlight the negative ramifications of our consumer-focused society, and include a program to live well for less by reordering our material priorities.

The most significant outcome of reading Your Money or Your Life for me was starting on the long process of thinking of my life as an organic mix of livelihood and lifestyle. Ultimately I sacrificed the income and security I had as a dedicated contributor to the corporate culture of collectibles. But I'm happier healthier than I've been in years. I can't recommend this book enough.

We have 2 copies available for sale in the store. Let us know if you'd like us to hold a copy for you.

Looking for Reading Groups!

2007-09-19T08:03:00.000-05:00

Anybody interested in heading up a reading group to meet at Steeplejack Books? If you're looking at our website or at our blog, you are probably interested in the shop or at least in reading and books. Well, as the weather cools and the days grow shorter, it's time to form a few book groups at the store.

I had the idea to form several different kinds of groups, because readers' interests vary. Here are some possible subjects for groups:

Fiction
History
Mystery
Creativity
Spirituality
Cooking
Ecology/Environmentalism
Kids

If you would be willing to lead any of these groups please let me know. Your responsibilties as a group leader would be to help recruit members, assemble, with the help of the group, a book list, and schedule meeting dates and times. That's about it. And if you have ideas for other reading groups, just chime in. We're open to (almost!) anything.

Hip Products for a Small Bookshop

2007-09-18T18:29:00.000-05:00

Those who've been into our humble little bookshop know we don't have much space to carry products other than books. And although we work hard to find great quality books, I often wonder how much our sales might improve if we offered other products to supplement the books.

We do carry 2 sizes of Moleskines, and cool buttons. A few months ago we started offering a great Bookmark card line by Stonehenge. The cards have been good sellers for us. Earlier this month we began offering eco-friendly tote bags, in the hope that customers would buy them to replace the plastic bags that we're forced to use for their relatively inexpensive cost and super-easy storage.

Today I was looking at a vendor's catalog of bookmarks and thought I could do better with my own designs. So I did a few mock-ups. Admittedly they need more work, and it may not be at all expedient to have them made for sale here in the store. But it was fun all the same to use my photos with a few of my favorite book quotes. I hope you like them.

Visit Steeplejack during Heritage Fest

2007-09-14T11:31:00.000-05:00

This weekend is the 10th annual Heritage Fest in downtown West Dundee. There will be lots of activities, including an arts and crafts festival, an antique car show, a Civil war encampment, and plenty of food and music.

We'll be open on Saturday from 10:00 until 6:00, and Sunday from 11:00 until 5:00. Please stop in to see the great selection of $3.00 softcovers and $5.00 hardcovers that we're featuring in our fiction section.

Hope to see you this weekend!

Mean Owl

2007-09-13T11:44:00.000-05:00

Most people associate owls with wisdom. But not Walter, a crow of great distinction and the brainchild of author Barb Kirpluk. Barb is a multi-talented author, photographer and raconteur who lives in Chicago. Her book, Caw of the Wild, subtitled, "Observations from the Secret World of Crows" is a warm and wonderful portrayal of American Crows. We have a copy in our store, used for $8.00.

Barb often writes to us about Walter's antics. Last year he had a horrible experience with an owl and did a painting in an attempt to purge the creature from his memory. We hope you like Walter's painting. Credit to Walter and especially Barb, the genius behind the crow behind the owl.

If you want to know more about Barb and her crows, see the Caw of the Wild link in My Favorite Sites.

When Passion Counts

2007-09-12T10:21:00.000-05:00

Today I want to mention two fine young men who helped us in the store this summer. Matt and Nick started as customers and quickly became Steeplejack stalwarts. Both graduated with honors from their respective high schools, and were actively engaged in academic, musical and athletic activities in their free time.

I was fortunate to work with both Nick and Matt throughout the summer in the store, as they helped me load, carry, shelf, and buy books. Nick helped us with our Harry Potter party (there's a photo of him watching one of the films in an earlier blog), and Matt helped with the register when I had to be away from the store.

This photo is a tribute to Matt and Nick. The poster was given to the store with love from Matt. Nick built the beautiful shelf upon which the books are displayed.

Matt and Nick are as passionate about life and learning as they are about Steeplejack, and will have much to contribute as they move forward with their lives. I think that Nick and Matt, and other committed young people just like them, will help to make our world a better place.

Kudos to Matt and Nick, along with our most heartfelt wishes for their success in college at Bard and Illinois State, respectively, and beyond.

8 Reasons to Buy at Your Local Small Bookshop

2007-09-11T07:21:00.000-05:00

Hardly a week goes by when a customer doesn't ask how tough it must be for us to be so close to Barnes and Noble, which is only a mile away. We can only survive if customers understand the particular advantages of visiting our store instead of the local big-box store down the street. Here are 8 reasons to visit our store:

1. Personal attention. Steeplejack is designed to feel like home, with friendly service. We want to help however we can to assist you in your book search while you're in our store. If you have a particular type of reading material you're looking for, you'll find our expertise will serve you well.

2. Cozy environment. Our customers frequently tell us how warm and inviting our bookstore is. We have comfortable chairs and a large table for you to sit at while you peruse your book selections. We encourage you to make yourself at home while you're in the bookshop.

3. New orders are fast! We can usually get your new book order within 1 - 2 days!

4. Keep your dollars local. Most of what you spend in a small community store stays local, as opposed to what you spend in a big-box store, much of which goes directly into the corporate coffers, most often in another state.

5. Meet your neighbors and make new friends. I can't tell you how frequently neighbors meet neighbors and folks of similar interests meet one another, maybe for the first time, but certainly not the last, in our small bookshop.

6. A gathering of ideas. Our table facilitates much heady, and some light conversation. Book groups gather to drink coffeee or tea while discussing social issues of the day, and customers have been known to use the table for homework on these early autumn evenings.

7. Recycled = environmentally & economically conscious. Whenever you buy a book at our store, you are doing your part to help the environment by buying recycled reading. And because these books are much less expensive than new books, you are keeping more money in your pocket.

8. Found treasures. We have beautiful books in the store, many of which are out of print. You simply cannot go to a big-box store and find out-of-print hardcovers by your favorite authors.

Dog Friends

2007-09-10T08:43:00.000-05:00

Did you know that we love dogs at Steeplejack Books? Steeplejack is in fact named for our dog, Jack. More on Jack in a later post. In the meantime, I found this photo of Gypsie, who visits often with her dad, Pete. Pete's a local artist whose work has been displayed in our windows.

Marty and I own his painting of 2 sheep, which we love. Gypsie likes to come into the store and lie down. She adores attention from us and whichever customers are browsing. Gyspsie is low and very sturdy, and has a quiet demeanor. She luxuriates in any pets she might be fortunate to receive, and she loves Livasnaps.

The Start of Something Big

2007-09-10T08:33:00.000-05:00

Starting today I'll be writing about the goings-on at Steeplejack Books. I hope to give some insight to anyone interested in the day-to-day life of a small bookshop into what really happens each day.

So, you'll be hearing a little about our customers, a lot about our books, and even some news about what goes on behind the scenes, like our book buying trips, our marketing efforts, community events, and related small bookshop news.

This should be an interesting excursion. We hope you like it, and we encourage your comments!

Today's Featured Quote

2007-09-06T08:52:00.000-05:00

"Life writes the best stories" submitted by Klaudia Crawford, celebrated chef of her own Lavendar Cafe, and Mason's Martini Bar and Grill here in Dundee.

A Funny Photo

2007-09-06T08:28:00.000-05:00

Here's a funny photo I took this summer on a trip to Phoenix to visit my sister-in-law, Kim. We like having the same name.

From the Sublime to the Ridiculous

2007-09-05T13:28:00.000-05:00

In these waning days of summer there seem like too many books to read. Since it still stays relatively light until later in the evening, we're naturally up a little later. I find, too, that if I'm unable to sleep in the middle of the night, a good book by my bedside is a good way to feel drowsy again.

I'm working on a few books right now. You might say the material goes from the sublime to the ridiculous. At work I'm reading Camus' The Plague, which is a tale of a small village attacked by a vicious plague. The protagonists' response to the overwhelming horror that befalls the town is a study in the range of human reaction to crisis.

On the other end of the scale, I'm reading John Kennedy Toole's Confederacy of Dunces at home. This book is a riot of fun, featuring the delusions of Ignatius Reilly and a cast of characters living and making their livings in New Orleans. The dialogue alone is an absolute stitch, and more often than not it's laugh-out-loud funny. Confederacy of Dunces won the Pulitzer Prize in 1980, for good reason, as far as I'm concerned.

Quote of the Day

2007-09-04T13:31:00.000-05:00

The silence between songs, is also a song.
-Richard Kirsten Daiensai

Reading Groups are a blast!

2007-09-04T12:15:00.001-05:00

We love book groups here at Steeplejack Books. We have a few that meet here now, and I have to say a good time is always had by all who attend.

Our official Steeplejack Books group, comprised by Marty, Diana, Krista, Jackie, Julie, occasionally Jean and I have been meeting for over a year. We've read The Turtle Warrior, The Red Tent, Middlemarch, American Gods, and Perennial Philosophy. The fiction goes down a little easier, but we're all game to try new genres. Kudos to Krista for working on Perennial Philosophy with me!

Aside from the intellectual stimulation, there's also an obvious opportunity for friendship. Among our group, we've ridden bikes together, celebrated birthdays and Christmas, and counseled one another about life's ups and downs.

We hope more interested parties will sign up to meet here in the store!

Arrival of the Beats

2007-08-15T11:09:00.000-05:00

Many folks who come into the store are inspired to buy beat literature. I've been enamored of the Beats for years, and as a biography reader, particularly enjoyed Subterranean Kerouac, by Ellis Amburn.

This year I also read the new Allen Ginzberg bio, I Celebrate Myself. Much lauded, it provides great insight into the development and denoument of the beat writers, from Jack Kerouac to Gregory Corso and William Buroughs. The elegant, abstract rhythm of Ginzberg's "Howl" never ceases to excite me.

As a lover of jazz, I feel so many similarities--the open form, spontaneous creativity and abstraction of Howl and other great beat writing are inherent in both the swing and winsome, fractured melody of the great jazz music, from Benny Goodman's "Sing Sing Sing" to Charlie Parker's "Lover Man." The pulsing beat of pedestrian and motor traffic of a super-energized New York City in the late 1940's and 50's is inherent in both Beat literature and jazz music as well.

Stop by the store sometime if you're interested in purchasing some Beat books for your library. We have trouble finding as many used copies as we'd like, but we do have several new works by Kerouac and (soon!) Ginzberg in the store.

And, if I hear enough interest from you, I'll be glad to order as many new copies as you want for the store. Long live the Beats.

Our Harry Potter New Release Party

2007-07-26T14:23:00.000-05:00

We had fun at our new release party for the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows book on Friday night. Couldn't have done it though, without the extraordinary help of Jeanne, June, and Julie.

Jeanne brought lots of treats, including some delicious pumpkin pasties and cockroach clusters, and even a case of butter beer. Fantastic! June decorated our windows, and contributed a magnificent gazing ball, Harry Potter glasses, and a stony-faced toad. Window contributions from Jeanne included some phenomenal robes and capes, wands, potion bottles, a chess set, and a cauldron, which we completed with a frothy mix of real cotton batting. Just the right touch of magic!

Julie brought in the sound system and screen for the first and third Harry Potter movies, which we watched through the evening. The party wouldn't have been complete without them.

Lots of folks showed up to join the celebration and to pick up their copies of the book. Celebrants of special note include our dear friend and customer, Jackie, who brought me a wonderful robe to wear for the evening, Nick, who helped us clean up after the festivities, and Matt and his parents, Phil and Greg.

Many thanks to all who made this evening such a success!

My myspace page matches my bag

2007-07-26T06:36:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to say that every time I look at our myspace page it reminds me of my favorite book-buying bag, which I bought at the urging of my high-school friends during a trip to NYC last year.

I'm pretty much a no-nonsense shopper when it comes to my clothing and accessories. Plain, monocromatic shirts and pants, and silver hoop earrings. I might take a few more risks with my rings and necklaces, but my bags, which are MANY, must always be beige, sage, or black.

Jude, Carla, and Cathy suggested I stray just this once when I bought my bag from the great NYC bookstore Strand Books last spring. I love this bag. It's light and has a really wide "mouth" or opening, for devouring books at sales. I'll post a picture when I find it.

It is now in the mouth of another hungry bag, lurking in a corner in our storage room or my car. Waiting, hungrily, for its next trip to buy books.

The Importance of Supporting Our Downtown

2007-07-02T11:37:00.000-05:00

Those of us who live in West Dundee are justifiably proud of the small-town feel of our community. It is at once beautiful and charming, with lovely historical architecture and tree-lined streets. We are also fortunate to have as perhaps our greatest asset the majestic Fox River, which dominates the landscape of our Fox River Valley.

As a resident of Dundee, I am delighted daily to see the activity on the sidewalks and streets around my home. Kids ride bicycles and walk doll strollers. Fathers have been noted to walk the blocks from their homes to the river with canoes on their heads, dogs roped to their belts. Grandmas walk with grandchildren, and friends take their daily committed strolls together.

Our town has some wonderful shops, which reinforce the community focus of our neighborhoods. There is a great knitting shop, where regular knit-ins take place every Friday night. There's a wonderful pet shop, which sells organic food and fun toys for dogs and cats, an award-winning floral shop, a delightful gift and home decor shop, fantastic restaurants, and a nostalgic candy store that's always full of kids and adults of all ages.

One of the complaints I hear frequently from our customers is that the fast traffic on Main Street inhibits walking and shopping in our downtown. But it's imperative to understand that we as residents own this town. Its health today and in the future is integral to the quality of life in our community. We must all take a vital interest in our downtown, by shopping here as much as possible.

The benefits are obvious. In addition to those stated above, we can do more for our local economy, including our housing values, by shopping here than traveling to another location. We are already a walking and bike-riding citizenry. I understand that the Village of West Dundee is planning to install 4 bike racks downtown. Let's take advantage of this by riding our bicycles downtown for a visit to the shops and restaurants right here. We'll save gas, and benefit the environment in some small way. Best of all, we'll be supporting our own downtown shopping district, for the benefit of all residents of the Dundee area.

Arts and the Community Bookshop

2007-05-11T14:34:00.001-05:00

For me, art and reading are inseparable. To be an artist, one needs to be aware of the world, in all its facets. Science, history, education, architecture, music, and painting all provide clues to the creation of a work of art.

People who know me well are aware of how important jazz is in my life. I love to listen to it as well as to read about it, and the lives of its greatest innovators, from Louis Armstrong to Charlie Parker to Thelonius Monk to Brad Mehldau to Patricia Barber. The great abstraction that is jazz, apart from being a metaphor for life, is similar to reading, and experiencing, the words on a page of a book. Once read and integrated, the words become a story that is unique to itself and to the reader of the book. That story might do many things for a particular reader, from providing solace and comfort to introducing new imaginings (creative thinking).

Steeplejack Books is here for readers. We also believe that art in its many forms is imperative to the well-being of the spirit. We encourage artists to come in to talk about their work. We only wish we had more space for display.

Lately I've been making ATC's--Art Trading Cards. They're a great way to make art on an intimate and thoughtful basis while not becoming intimidated by the large scale of more public artwork. ATC's are small by definition: 2.5" x 3.5". I hope eventually to sponsor an ATC swap. Stop by the store or email me sometime to learn more about this fascinating hobby.

Why a Used Bookstore?

2007-04-23T15:01:00.000-05:00

Folks often ask, why a used bookstore? Often, I wonder myself. But in my more cogent moments, I cite the following reasons:

1) Used books are recycled. They're not only less expensive, but they're much easier on the environment. No new trees, chemicals, or expensive advertising to pay for. Just excellent reading material.

2) Vintage and out-of-print books that can't be found at Borders or Barnes and Noble are prevalent in used bookshops. These books have "soul." They've been read, handled, and loved by previous readers. They have acquired a patina and dignity only obtainable through years of use, much like us. In this way, they're somehow more organic than new books.

3) Used book stores are often a gathering place for communities. Whether you're a reader, writer, artist, environmentalist, a wiccan or devout catholic, a bookstore is a place to meet others like ourselves, and better yet, unlike ourselves, to share ideas. They're also good for learning the local lore and current events. There's something wonderful about meeting friends and neighbors in your local bookshop, to chat or just to say hello.

Steeplejack Books was established for these reasons and more. We love it when you come in to see and handle the out-of-the ordinary books you'll find in our shop. It's also a gathering spot for 2 book groups, a drawing group, and a newly-organized photo club.

Steeplejack has welcomed several authors over the past year, including Edgar Award-winning writer Theresa Schwegel, David J. Walker, Toni Louis Diol, Tim Hall, and John Prigge.

We have coffee and tea here for you, to enjoy while you browse. And we love visits from well-behaved dogs to our store. Some of our regular four-legged visitors include Jack, Hani, Molly, Rigs, Ollie, Minutka, Gypsie, Seamus, Fritz, Bessie, and Allie.

I hope you'll consider us first when you have a new book to order. We can usually have them in the store within 3 business days of when they're ordered.

Steeplejack is here for our community, and can be both an intellectual and social asset for all of us. Please help us continue to make our shop a viable part of our downtown experience--stop in anytime to say hello.

Hello! Welcome to the blog!

2007-03-12T12:50:00.000-05:00

It’s a tough task starting out a blog. There’s a million things that could be said, but it can't all be said in the first blog post. I’ve been working with Kim at Steeplejack Books for a while now on the store’s newly revamped website. Web design isn’t my full time job. (Heck, it isn’t even my part time job.) But I’ve done a few in the past and I mentioned to Kim that I could probably do a better design than what she had up there already. So, we got to the designing and things really started to click. And then that brings us here, to the blog.

I don’t think we’ll just talk about books and the website here though. I’ll probably talk mainly about music, which is my area of expertise. Maybe I’ll post mp3s to download. Possibilities are endless here, as far as I’m concerned. I could honestly talk about music 24 hours a day. But fear not, seeing as how this isn’t really my blog, I’ll only chime in when Kim doesn’t have time to post. It would be pretty interesting to me if we found some other writers in the area, I know that Kim knows quite a few, that could contribute some posts here and there. We could even get into podcasting. I’m just throwing ideas out there.

But I think that’s enough of an introduction.

One thing that has been on my mind lately is how we use our senses for entertainment. I’ve noticed that the vast majority of us need to have two or more senses occupied to be entertained. Exhibit A: Television. We have our sight and hearing totally occupied while watching television. It makes it easier for us this way; our brain doesn’t have to work as hard as when you’re just utilizing one sense. Now take me for example, I love music. For me, there are two types of listening experiences: hearing the music and really listening to the music. Right now, I’m hearing some Miles Davis from the other room while I write this. I can’t really listen to the music, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to get anything written. Very few people I know will take the time to sit down and just listen to music. Nothing else, just listen. Try it tonight. The average album only lasts 35-45 minutes. Set aside the time, no distractions, no TV, just listen. What I think you’ll find is that you will hear the music with your ears, but you will also begin to see the music too. Whether you picture the musicians themselves or you envision something else, some abstract visual in your mind that somehow gets inspired by the music. Maybe you’ll see someone in your mind that a certain line of a song reminds you of. Tell me what you see when you listen to music.

I guess that what I’m basically saying is that you don’t need audiophile ears to listen to the music. You also don’t need to know anything about music to listen.

One last thought about music: if it sounds good, it is good. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, they’ll have to answer to me!

Till next time,
~Kyle