Write a novel in November?! Who has the time? Especially when there are so many great books to read! But since writing is swirling through the air (along with all the yellow and brown leaves) why not consider a few books where the main character is a writer. Or books where writing is a big part of the story line. And if you are writing then I'm grateful because I love to read and new novels in the works are exciting things!

Epistolary novels come to mind since the characters are ALL writers, corresponding with one another to develop the storyline and their characters. An obvious selection is The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society which gets double points because, besides being written in letters, one of the characters is a writer as well. You could also try Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn (read the title out loud, trust me!). It’s subtitle is, get this: “a progressively lipogrammatic epistolary fable,” intriguing! It’s a quick read with a very clever plot twist and commentary on freedom of speech.

Click "continue reading" for suggestions of novels where there's a character who is a writer. I've selected two winners that you won't want to miss.

The Library Board of Trustees has an opening. Trustee Vickie Williams has accepted a new position out of the area, and her unexpired term is now available to interested citizens. We strongly encourage City residents to apply. The Board of Trustees consists of five citizen volunteers, each appointed by the Mayor. The Board meets monthly and makes final decisions about major aspects of library business. Volunteers serve a five-year term and can apply for a second five-year term if they wish.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the library’s Board, you can get an application at the Mayor’s office or from the library’s website or the City’s website. For more information, please contact the Mayor’s office at 625-6250.

Spokane Public Library is excited to host Yuletide at the Downtown Library this year. Yuletide is a fundraiser for Spokane Art School and a way for people to find one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season. If you’ve attended before then you know what a treat this event is! You’ll find unique homemade gifts made by local and regional artists such as Sheila Evans and Melissa Cole (pictured above respectively).

Spokane Art School has been active in Spokane since 1968. We’re thrilled to support them by partnering to host the event at the Downtown Library. Yuletide is also receiving support from the Friends of the Bing this year.

Join us:

• Thursday, November 12, 5 – 8 pm – Yuletide Preview Party with special raffle and appetizers – tickets available here. This preview party supports Spokane Public Library Foundation and Spokane Art School.
• Friday, November 13 and 14 – Yuletide Sale – open to the public, free admission

While you’re at the library checking out Yuletide remember that a library card is a great present to yourself. Remember to use it by checking out some books, CD’s or DVD’s – you’ll be enriching your own life and that’s a great gift!