Staff Review: Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler

Even if you are not a native of Wisconsin you will find so much to like about Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler. The story told through 5 narrators, all of whom grew up together in a small town outside of Eau Claire, WI.

I loved reading a book about men's friendships from the male perspective. These friends love each other like brothers but their relationships develop cracks as they mature and life wears them down. Lee becomes a famous rock star but always comes back to Little Wing to find his center. Ronny left to become a Rodeo cowboy and was a rising star when he was derailed by alcoholism and an accident that ended his career and landed him back home. Kip took off for Chicago and made a bundle in the financial field, and decided to invest in his hometown by buying and renovating an old grain mill. Henry is the hometown kid who marries Beth, the girl next door--they stay to farm and raise a family.

Each chapter alternates between these five narrators and you see the same story unfold from different perspectives. Some of the descriptions of nature and wildlife are so beautiful and harsh they actually made me catch my breath. Midwestern themes and landscape have been portrayed in a way anyone from anywhere will be able to appreciate. This novel is a quick read drawn on a wonderful canvas with a big heart.

~Michelle, Circulation

February Magazines of the Month

Chicago magazine is a publication of the Chicago Tribune Media Group and offers news, reviews, and all things Chicago. Whether you're a transplant who misses home, or you're planning a weekend getaway, it's worth checking out! More information and features are available on their website: www.chicagomag.com

Dwell is a magazine for edgy, contemporary home architecture and interior design. You can check out a print copy from the library or borrow a digital copy through Zinio. More information and features are available on their website: http://www.dwell.com

FY16 Library Budget Presentation Video

Carnegie-Stout Public Library Director Susan Henricks gave a presentation to the Dubuque City Council this week about the Library's Fiscal Year 2016 budget recommendations. Here's the video:

For more information, see the City of Dubuque's Fiscal Year 2016 Budget.

Copies of Carnegie-Stout Public Library's Annual Report are available for free at the library. This year's report is in the form of an attractive calendar with historical photos, facts and figures, and upcoming library events.