Norman Granz : The man who used jazz for justice

Norman Granz changed the course of jazz in so many ways, as creator of the Jazz At The Philharmonic tour package and as founder of Verve and other labels. His most indelible contribution may be, as author Tad Hershorn recounts, that he used jazz as a vehicle to advance civil rights causes. Granz was a fearless advocate for African American and minority musicians who were systematically discriminated against by record companies, theaters, radio stations, big bands and unions.
Granz's reputation as a protector of American artists, and as jazz as a unique art form, is legendary within the music industry. Hershorn starting writing the book in 1996, while still in college, and came to know Granz, who previously rebuffed requests for a book about his life—even though he was at the epicenter of the jazz world for two decades. He captures the fast and furious atmosphere of the era.

Blackberry Wine

by Joanne Harris

Blackberry Wine is written by the author of Chocolat, and is actually set in the same small French town. The main character this time (Jay Mackintosh) is a one-hit writer whose creativity has stalled, leaving him to write cheezy science fiction novels to make a living. Jay starts to drink in an attempt to find his artistry, and soon turns to six "Special" bottles left him by his old friend Joe, the inspiration for his original book. Each bottle opened brings back memories that awaken him to new experiences in the village and in life. You'll certainly recognize some of the village townspeople from Chocolat who show up in Jay's new life.

Like Chocolat, Blackberry Wine is a strangely layered tale of a fascinating group of players. It is both melancholy and funny.

LT FIC HAR

George Harrison: Living in the material world

by Olivia Harrison

George Harrison was so much more than just "a Beatle." His love for fast cars was a revelation to me. The Monty Python part of his life is as funny as the Flying Circus and revealed a sense of humor often hidden within The Fabs. The book is filled with stories from Harrison's friends, including Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Eric idle, and many others. I really appreciated looking at all the beautiful photographs taken by Harrison himself in the mid-1960's.

This is one of the best "Beatle" books written. It is more than just a trip down Memory Lane. It's a right fitting volume for a man who left us way too early.

The Island

by Elin Hildebrand
From the second page on, I was immersed in the Nantucket setting of this book. A cancelled wedding brings a Mom, her bohemian sister, and two daughters back to a family vacation home for the summer. I liked fantasizing about living this remote island lifestyle (complete with hunky island caretaker) that only the rich can afford, but I also could realistically relate to the sometimes testy family relationships of the females staying there. Grab some ice tea, sit in the sun, and enjoy! You'll hate when this book ends -- I'm going to try Castaways next.
FIC HIL