Sniffing Out a Good Book

Brutus has been sniffing the mystery books on display in Owosso.  He is hoping that he can detect the odor of dogs (his favorite characters) or food (his favorite activity).  So far they just smell like books.  He hopes that he doesn't choose one about a cat!

Brutus Loves to Read

Brutus just finished the newest book in the Chet & Bernie Mystery Series--The Dog Who Knew Too Much. Spencer Quinn is one of Brutus' favorite authors; no one else is able to tell a story from a dog's point of view as well.

This book finds Chet and Bernie looking for a missing boy. Devon disappeared during the night while on a hike. Bernie suspects he was bullied by the other boys; his camp counselor insists that he just wandered off; but Chet's nose can't find evidence of either scenerio. The truth ends up being much more sinister, involving meth labs and murder. Bernie is also arrested for the counselor's murder leaving his girlfriend Suzie and Chet to decipher much of the puzzle. Will they find Devon before it is too late? A tail-wagging good read in Brutus' estimation. He gives it four wags out of a possible five.

Brutus Prepares for the Reading Party

Brutus is trying to decide which book he should report on at the September 7th reading party. The staff has been trying to encourage him to broaden his interests beyond dog stories, but there's more than 400 fiction books about dogs in the library catalog! (And he knows that dogs are smarter than cats--their superior instincts have solved many mysteries from the Hound of the Baskervilles to Rita Mae Brown's A Nose for Justice. Sneaky Pie, Koko, and Yum Yum have nothing on his favorite dog sleuths).

He was wagging his tail over this pile of dog stories. Plenty to choose from and only two more weeks to to decide and read his book! He is supposed to choose the best book he read this summer or his favorite, but how can a little dog make such a big decision? He wonders if anyone will notice if he watches the movie Where the Red Fern Grows instead of reading the book. (He's heard of kids doing this with their school assignments). It's much easier to operate a DVD player with his nose than turn pages in a book.

Brutus Prepares for the Reading Party

Brutus has sniffed out a book for the Reading Party on Tuesday, January 18th at 7 p.m. in Owosso. He has chosen a new one about one of his favorite dogs, Chet. Chet can always solve the mystery before the humans usually even pick up the scent; and while he is fond of his owner Bernie, Chet is much smarter. (Aren't most dogs?) Quinn tells the story from Chet's perspective which is another reason why he is one of Brutus's favorite authors; no other author understands a dog's thoughts as well.

Another plus, Brutus has heard rumors that there will be cookies (maybe homemade?) at the party, too. He hopes to see lots of you there.

Brutus joins the Summer Reading Program

Brutus was first in line this morning to have his bingo sheet stamped. He has finished his first book for this year's adult summer reading program, a mystery. Of course, Brutus only likes books about dogs so he chose Dog on It by Spencer Quinn, a story which features a dog who is smarter than his master. (Aren't most dogs?) He's thinking of working across the row--didn't Curwood write a story or two about dogs? Do recipes for hot dogs count? Brutus invites all high school students and adults to join him in some reading fun.

Brutus & the Bath Schoolhouse Massacre

Brutus has been listening to Steve, Chicaro, and Margaret talking about the Bath schoolhouse massacre in 1927. He cannot understand how anyone could intentionally kill people, especially children. He loves kids and children are some of his best friends; they are usually quick to give him hugs, treats, and a good scratching behind the ears. Fortunately, Brutus does not bite people, although he has reconsidered this postition and asked if he will be allowed to bite people who don't like children; (but Margaret says there will be no biting period if he wants to remain as the library mascot).

Brutus is anxious to meet Arnie Bernstein on Friday evening, May 14th. He will be speaking at the library about his book at 7 p.m. as part of the Michigan Notable Authors' Tour. Brutus remembers lots of fun at last year's event and expects to enjoy this author just as much. Books will be available for sale after the program for $15, and refreshments will be served. (Brutus supposes he will be banned from the cookies as usual; he is hoping that someone will take pity on him and bring some dog bones).

Sorting Books for the Booksale

Brutus decided to help Margaret sort books this morning. The only problem was where to start. There are lots of books for tomorrow's sale which will be held on the library's front lawn (502 W. Main, Owosso). There are also some books on cassette, VHS tapes, and DVDs. Brutus hopes to see you there, and let him know if you see any good dog stories you think he might enjoy!