Waking up just in time from that turkey-induced coma to find yourself in the thick of the holiday midst, these titles can offer you laughs to balance the stress, solutions to last minute presents, and a sugar high to fuel you until January.
Holidays on Ice
by David Sedaris
Nothing will make your family seem more normal than delving into the hysterics of the Sedaris clan. Your nitpicking aunt will seem saintly, your rambunctious nephew not so bad in comparison to the prostitute-saving, surly elf-impersonating, cut-throat competitive decorating characters introduced in David Sedaris’s compilation of vignettes. Known for his dark and self-deprecating sense of humor, Sedaris pokes fun at the insanity holidays can bestow upon us. If you are in need of some cheer that is not of the maudlin A Charlie Brown Christmas variety, give Holidays on Ice a whirl and count your blessings you’re not an elf named Crumpet. “But instead I am applying for a job as an elf. Even worse than applying is the very real possibility that I will not be hired, that I couldn’t even find work as an elf. That’s when you know you’re a failure.”
The Big Book of Mod Podge
by Plaid Enterprises, Inc.
When the weather outside is frightful, what is better than staying indoors and crafting? This crafters favorite from the 1960s knows no limits. Cover a car? Sure! Decoupage a coffee table? Bring it on. For seasonal crafts, there are instructions to make gift tags, ornaments, wreaths and much more. With over 90 projects, this book has something for everyone to try, from steampunk princesses to truck-toting tots. If you’re into homemade gifts, look no further than The Big Book of Mod Podge for inspiration. Most of the crafts are ten steps or less, making them time and child-friendly. Put those Pinterest DIY ideas to use with this all-in-one glue, sealer, finish, crime fighting (eh, maybe not that one) adhesive.
The 12 Days of Christmas in Michigan
by Susan Collins Thomas
East Grand Rapids author Susan Collins Thomas paired with Ann Arbor illustrator Deb Pilutti to give their rendition of the sing-along Christmas classic. Drawing from Michigan history and tradition, young Katie and her cousin tour the Great Lakes State sight-seeing our local treasures. The 12 Days of Christmas in Michigan is a history lesson, travel guide and regional to-do list all rolled into an instant holiday favorite. It’s a helpful reminder of why we adore our state despite the frigid temperatures, relentless snowfall and hazardous driving conditions. Ah Michigan, how we love thee so.
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business
by Charles Duhigg
Need tips on how to make your New Year’s resolution last longer than a fruitcake? The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business, has the science behind behaviors for you. Divided into three parts, this fascinating read explains the basic relationship between cues, routines and rewards. By focusing on one unhealthy “keystone habit,” you can reprogram other routines in your life. If Oprah and Malcolm Gladwell wrote a book together, this would be it—part human interest stories, part shocking tales and part scientific research. The book highlights case studies of individuals, businesses and societies, showing you the unsuspecting way your habits may be manipulated by others. Looking for tips on how to kick that procrastination habit? I’ll let you know when I get around to it.
Andrea Mantakounis, a Communications Specialist at Kent District Library, falls for every “easy” DIY project, unfailingly reads past her bedtime and is an adopted mother to an unenthusiastic cat.
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