This Month In Chicago Literary News
The Chicago Tribune Printers Row published their summer reading suggestions. The three-part list includes 60 books for summer’s 92 days. The list is diverse and include books such as I Know I Am, But What Are You? (Essays by “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart” correspondent and comedian Samantha Bee) and Go, Mutants! A Novel (What happened to the offspring of all those aliens who invaded Earth in 1950s science fiction movies? They grew up on Earth and went to school, of course.)
The Chicago Public Library also has an adults-only summer reading program. This summer, the theme is “Reading is Artrageous.” Check the schedule for more information about the programming, which includes film screenings, art workshops, photography discussions, and local artist performances and demonstrations.
Kelly O'Connor McNees was the only Chicago author to make Oprah’s summer reading list this year. We spoke to her a few months ago about her fictional account of Little Women author, titled The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott.
NewCity Lit published “Lit 50: Who Really Books in Chicago.” It’s their annual list of notables in the Chicago literary scene. They gave the number one spot to Roger Ebert, and we can’t say we’re disappointed: “His fearless public appearances have made him an inspiration; his writing, still growing stronger day by day, has made him a hero. He can’t speak, but in 2010 he’s louder than ever.“
Open Books, one of our favorite used bookstores and places to volunteer, is having a half-off sale for all books in the store this weekend. Rare and autographed books are not included in the sale, but you may be able to haggle a lower price.
Chicago zines are gaining more and more momentum and there’s another even this weekend that celebrates DIY crafts and literature. The Strangelight DIY Fair on Saturday should be a great place to check out local record labels, zines and crafts.