Due West

by Tammy Surline

This Tuesday, April 23rd, marks an event entitled World Book Night.  This event is designed to give specially printed paperback books to individuals who normally don’t engage in reading.

Reading is more important than ever today.  In a world of texts and tweets and abbreviations that boggle even the most clever of minds, to sit down with a collection of well-written, thoughtful prose is a treat that cannot be denied.  Kindles and Nooks are a nice way to provide this experience, especially in our gadget-oriented society.  But at the risk of sounding as corny as Kansas in August, there is no other substitute for picking up that first book, holding it in your hands, smelling it and opening up a world of possibilities.

My mom took me to the public library when I was quite small and got me my first library card.  I remember it to this day.  She was friends with the children’s librarian so we had connections (wink, wink).  It was always a treat when my aunt came to visit in the summer because I knew we would walk together to the downtown library.  Then when I started kindergarten, the teacher took us to the school library.  I remember thinking, “wow, they have one of these at school, too?”  I couldn’t believe my good fortune.

Despite my auspicious introduction to books, I almost fell off reading for a time.  My English teachers had a nasty habit of assigning classic works that slowly eroded my enthusiasm.  Though Dickens never failed to entertain, the lofty, high-brow language of Shakespeare at first left me cold.  The Grapes of Wrath seemed dry as dust (wink, again) and Of Mice and Men almost put me in therapy.  I admit, I’ve blocked out most Of Mice and Men, but I do remember some ugliness concerning dead mice and the killing of puppies.  (Fade to black…)  Beowulf was the final straw.  To me, the prose did not even resemble English and couldn’t have been worth much since the author didn’t even have the guts to reveal himself.

Alas, a persistent English teacher handed me a copy of The Great Gatsby and told me I would love it.  Had it not been for that insightful educator, I would never have turned that corner and gotten back into reading and exploring books, even Shakespeare.  After all, he is the Beatles of literature.

My husband’s mother spent many years trying to turn her son into a reader.  Finally, when he drove his parents to Salt Lake for his dad’s eye surgery and had to spend many hours in waiting rooms and motels, his mom handed him a detective novel.  The heavens opened up right along with the cover of that book and voila!  Her long awaited dream was finally realized.  She even took a picture of him reading in the motel to show me as proof of her accomplishment.

Thus, World Book Night is an opportunity to provide that same turning point to others who are turned off of reading.  All it takes is the right book given to the right person and another bibliophile is born.

In fact, Rock Springs Library will be hosting this event from 6-8 pm this Tuesday evening, April 23rd.  We will be giving away books to folks who may have never thought of reading for pleasure, and even maybe a few who do.   Come join us for books, cake, punch, and fun!

A classic is something that everybody wants to have read and nobody wants to read.  –Mark Twain

“An honest tale speeds best, being plainly told.” –Act IV, Scene IV, King Richard III, Shakespeare

“Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them.” — Lemony Snicket, Horseradish: Bitter Truths You Can’t Avoid

You don’t have to burn books to destroy a culture.  Just get people to stop reading them.” –Ray Bradbury

“Until I feared I would lose it, I never loved to read.  One does not love breathing.”  –To Kill A Mockingbird, Harper Lee

By Carla May Ceballos

In all my time spent as a bibliophile, cinephile and just an all-around STORY-phile I have come to a conclusion about some of my favorite stories: good stories need good heroes. Of course, every story has to have a hero when we define hero as  “the principle character in a story or play” but I am talking about hero as “a person who, in the opinion of others, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a model or ideal.”  Since stories are art that reflects (and then usually affects) culture, I have realized that we all need good heroes, too.

Of course, what it means to be a good hero is wonderfully flexible, depending on what our needs are at the time. And I see the need for a lot of different heroes:

• Just yesterday I was at dress rehearsal for the annual Ice-Hibition for the city’s Learn-To-Skate program. When the house lights went out for grand entrance, a four-year old boy calmly told me he was afraid of the dark. When I asked why he was being so brave, he gestured to the super-hero cape that was part of his costume: “Super heroes don’t get scared” he matter-of-factly replied.

“Courage is found in unlikely places.”

― J.R.R. Tolkien

• Meanwhile I see another little boy go running by with a Captain America shield (oh wait—that’s my nineteen-year-old brother)—a hero of courage, loyalty and country. Captain America and The Avengers (or any brave super hero with a cape!) are examples of how heroes can capture our imagination and inspire us at any age.

“As you get older it is harder to have heroes, but it is sort of necessary.”

― Ernest Hemingway

• Heroes can also come from unexpected places. Personally, I am looking forward to cheer my heroes tomorrow at Wrestlemania XXIX. It has been a while since we thought of professional wrestlers as heroes, but characters like John Cena with mottos like “Hustle Loyalty Respect” are easy to cheer when they enter the ring. I am inspired by Shawn Michaels and how he has overcome real-life obstacles to become one of the greatest WWE stars of all time. I am also equally inspired by his real-life friendship with Triple-H—after all, the only thing better than cheering for a hero is cheering for two.

“A faithful friend is a strong defense;

And he that hath found him hath found a treasure.”

― Louisa May Alcott

• When we need a hero for the underdog and someone for the child in us to look up to, we have Atticus Finch—Harper Lee’s wonderful, humble hero of the falsely accused who also takes time to read with his children on the porch.

“I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand.

It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.”

― Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird

• Which leads right into my next hero: when you need a hero of the English language and American Literature, who creates memorable characters and gives voice to a national struggle, I give you Harper Lee. She is my hero for her work, To Kill a Mockingbird.

“Real heroes are men who fall and fail and are flawed, but win out in the end

because they’ve stayed true to their ideals and beliefs and commitments.”

― Kevin Costner

• But really I do not have to look very far find heroes: my husband, mother, father, brother and sister are all my heroes for the obstacles that they have faced and overcome in life.

“I am of certain convinced that the greatest heroes

are those who do their duty in the daily grind of domestic affairs whilst the world whirls as a maddening dreidel.”

― Florence Nightingale

So take the time to identify and appreciate the heroes who add color, meaning and inspiration to your life, whether they are in real-life or found in a story.

“Even though we don’t admit it, every single one of us aspires to be like somebody,

whether they live in the world today, within the bard’s lyrics, or on the pages in the Library”

― Evan Meekins,

By Carla Ceballos

Have you ever stopped to wonder How and Why We Read? I have, and it turns out I am not the only one. Author and video blogger John Green (check out his books at the library!) has a delightful YouTube video that discusses this very question, too (Follow the previous link to hear his enthusiasm on the subject! I am so affected by John  Green and his writing and blogging I acknowledge him as the inspiration for most of this post–so it is not plagiarism  Thank you, John Green!) If I had not fallen in love with math when I did, I probably would have chosen English as my major.  I love books and reading.

Author John Green

Reading and writing are considered markers of civilization but they also connect people. It makes no sense to write unless you are going to have a reader. We read a story and–as author C.S Lewis said–we cry “You too? I thought I was the only one!”  Human and cultural connection is important in a state like Wyoming; not only is our half-million population spread thin across this great land, but here in Rock Springs we find it hard to make connections as we hustle and bustle with the next boom and bust as we live our lives. Thank goodness for reading!

Writing also lets us communicate across barriers– barriers of distance, culture and time. It does not matter what the medium is for that writing. The cuneiform writing on baked clay from Mesopotamia is just as valid as the Gutenberg Bible which as as much merit as the novel on your eReader. I do not worry that eReaders and the internet will put libraries out of business or eviscerate language; we humans need to communicate and we will always find a way to tell our side of the story, whether that is by keyboard or ink or scratchings in stone. 

Even fiction stories are a method of communication. When we read a story critically (as John Green points out) we

1. have a fuller understanding of lives other than our own
2. learn to empathize
3. can gain the linguistic tools to share our own story with more precision. It takes a good reader to make a good writer, after all.

 As I said before, this connection is important for us to maintain in this wild west state. I love Wyoming, and I encourage everyone to learn more about this beautiful state and its fascinating people. My resolution for 2013 is to read more of the books from the Wyoming History Section, the crown jewel of our little library. This is a wild, beautiful and not easy land to live in, so maybe I can find a connection with those who have been here before?

Southwest Wyoming

‘The Man Booker Prize promotes the finest in fiction by rewarding the very best book of the year. The prize is the world’s most important literary award and has the power to transform the fortunes of authors and even publishers….’ – (MPB) The book commentariat fall over themselves every year in anticipation of this highly feted award.

That being the case, this prestigious award also attracts attention from a rather different sort – The Bookie. Those who inhabit the world of online betting may recall the various UK bookmakers were gushing over Irish novelist Sebastian Barry. But alas, the favorite of the gambling set was not carried by the odds. Instead, debutant Indian novelist Aravind Adiga was chosen yesterday at London‘s Guildhall. His book, The White Tiger: A Novel ‘was described as a compelling, angry and darkly humorous novel about a man’s journey from Indian village life to entrepreneurial success. One reviewer described it as an ‘unadorned portrait of India seen from the bottom of the heap’ – (Julia May – India News)

The bookies may have missed the mark this year, but one has to admire their pluck. How else to describe those who attempt so difficult a task as choosing the best of the best.

The Man Booker Prize 2008 – Shortlist:

Sebastian Barry – ‘The Secret Scripture‘

Amitov Gosh – Sea of Poppies

Linda Grant – The Clothes on Their Backs

Philip Hensher – The Northern Clemency

Steve Toltz – A Fraction of the Whole

Sweetwater County Libraries will display banned and challenged books for Banned Books Week, 0/27/08 – 10/04/08. The Rock Springs Library has set aside a corner table laden with these contentious tomes. On many of the titles we’ve included slips of commentary about why the books were banned and/or challenged. The importance of this observance brings to mind the title of an Agatha Christie mystery, ‘And Then There Were None’ – When books are banned, burned, or challenged, where does it all end? The freedom, not only to choose what we read, but also to select from a full array of possibilities, is firmly rooted in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Visit your local library and regale your mind with the dangerous, seditious, and inappropriate…read a book.

Our library recently assisted an English couple with genealogical research. They sought information on Frank Yates, a notable citizen of Rock Springs during the 1920′s. Yates emigrated to Wyoming in 1911 and over the next 16 years worked as a sheep rancher, lawyer, and state senator for Sweetwater County. The search on Yates brought to mind the role the British played in the history of the West.  Indeed, Rock Springs at one time was host to legions of Cornish, English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh who worked the mines and played a prominent, if not infamous, role in the Rock Springs Chinese Massacre of 1885. One interesting group of expats were the Remittance Men. The following books are avaliable at the Library for those interested in learning more:

‘Marmalade & Whiskey: British Remittance Men in the West’ – Olson, Leo

The British system of primogeniture created generations of offspring with little or no purpose in life, save as backup heirs in case the eldest son died before fathering a successor. The younger siblings were often sent into military, clerical, or civil service, or became settlers in Australia or America, where they were known as “Remittance Men.” They were raised with the notion that gentlemen do not actually work, and so they existed on the remittance, or allowance, sent from the family estate. Olson explains the situation clearly before launching into some highly entertaining and excruciatingly poignant tales of individuals caught up in this system on the American frontier. The influence of these Britishers upon the settling of the West is cleverly illumined. Relatives of Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, and other well-known figures are among the cast assembled in this selective, enlightening coverage.

‘British Gentlemen in the Wild West: The Era of the Intensely English Cowboy’ – Woods, Lawrence M.

In the first full account of this little known chapter of American history, Lawrence M. Woods provides a deft and winning portrait of an eccentric cast of characters – a highly improbable colony composed of second sons, adventurers and sportsmen, and a few very black sheep. It also sheds light on the elusive link betweeb the Old World and New. Woods’ portrait of two cultures meeting and mixing on the open range reveals that aristocrats, schooled at Eton and Cambridge for Imperial leadership, and the rough independent American cowboys understood each other well, sharing a common moral code and a concept of personal honor based on courage and resourcefulness.

I’ve friends who are journeying far and wide this summer – Australia, Bermuda, Croatia, Greece. I, on the other hand, will remain in the Cowboy State. (Perhaps Tórshavn next autumn?) Fortunately, I needn’t despair, for Wyoming offers many attractions capable of satisfying my wanderlust. Listed below are some Wyoming guidebooks I’ve made use of in the past. Let them guide you as well.

‘Wyoming: Off the Beaten Path – A Guide to Unique Places – McCoy, Michael

Tired of the same old tourist traps? Take the road less traveled and discover the hidden attractions, unique finds, and unusual locales other guidebooks just don’t offer. Off the Beaten Path features the things you’d want to see-if only you knew about them! From the best in locale dining to quirky cultural tidbits, you’ll say over and over again: ‘I didn’t know that!’ OTBP 5th ed.

‘Wyoming Curiosities: Quirky Characters, Roadside Oddites, and Other Offbeat Stuff - Mishev, Dina

Th definitive collection of Wyoming’s odd, wacky, and most offbeat people, places, and things. Whether you’re a born and raised Wyomingite or a recent transplant, author Dina Mishev will have you laughing out loud as she introduces you to the neighbors you never knew you had and takes you to places you never knew existed – right in your own backyard

‘Hiking Wyoming’s Medicine Bow National Forest: A Trail Guide to the Snowy Range, Sierra Madre, Medicine Bow, Pole, and Laramie Mountains’ - Smith, Marc

This second edition of hiking Wyoming’s Medicine Bow National Forest covers more than 60 diverse hiking areas-ensuring you’ll find the perfect trail for your activity. Whether you are looking for an easy stroll in the woods, a challenging back-packing trip, or a day of fishing or hunting, this guidebook will lead the way.

‘The Rough Guide to Yellowstone & Grand Teton’ – Timblin, Stephen

The Rough Guide to the Yellowstone & The Grand Tetons is your definitive guidebook to the world’s first and oldest national park. From its famous hot springs and geysers to grizzly bears, wolves, and free-ranging herds of bison and elk, the full-colour introduction highlights all the ‘things-not-to-miss’. There are insider reviews of all the best places to stay, eat and drink, with the new ‘Author’s Pick’ feature highlighting the very best options. The guide also takes a detailed look at the park’s history and comes complete with maps and plans for every area.

‘Scenic Driving: Wyoming’ - Parent, Laurence

Thirty drives showcase the spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife of Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, the geologic anomaly of Devils Tower, the high and barren Red Desert, the great fishing at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, and more.

‘The Wyoming Camping Guide: Where to go and What to do When You Get There’ – McClure, Michael

The Wyoming Camping Guide describes hundreds of public campgrounds so you can find the perfect place for your next outing. This complete guidebook comes packed with recreational information for the outdoor enthusiast. The campgrounds’ descriptions include trails, picnic areas, and natural attractions. You’ll also find where to fish, boat, view wildlife, rock climb, go four-wheeling, or take a scenic drive. The guidebook is complemented with an 8-page color insert as well as dozens of photos and maps. All of the details that campers want to know, such as elevations, parking spur lengths, and operating seasons are included to make your trip easy to plan. So pack up your gear and let The Wyoming Camping Guide lead the way!

‘Wyoming (American Compass Guides)’ – Bur, Nathaniel

Native Wyomingite Burt and photographer Pitcher have captured the spirit of this magnificent state in a guidebook certain to please vacationers as well as armchair travelers. They painstakingly document the history and beauty of every principal region in the state, including some natural wonders not well known to the general public, such as Periodic Springs and Medicine Wheel. Their mixture of anecdotes, history, and beautiful photographs provide a genuine taste of the “Wild West.” Of particular merit is their extensive appendix, which lists addresses for specific information (e.g., accommodations, dude ranches, state parks, museums and historical sites).

‘The Ultimate Wyoming Atlas and Travel Encyclopedia’ – Doughert, Michael & Heidi Pfeil

The essential reference guide to the Cowboy State. 129 detailed maps and mile-by-mile inofmration on all Wyoming State and federal highways.

The Rock Springs Library will celebrate Shakespeare’s ‘birthday’ on Wednesday, April 23 at 6:00 pm. Though the true date of the Bard’s birth is unknown, the 23rd of April is traditionally given the honors. Join us over tea and pastries as we discuss favorites from Will’s repertoire.

Western literature scholar Linda Ross will explore the effects moving to and living on the Great Plains had on its women inhabitants at an April 19th presentation at Rock Springs Library located at 400 C Street. Ross’s program, “Tragedy and Triumph: Women’s Lives on the Great Plains” is presented by the Wyoming Humanities Council and sponsored by the Rock Springs Library.

Sickness, accidents, death, drought, hail, wind, heat, blizzards, isolation, loneliness, distance, and the seemingly monotonous landscape profoundly affected pioneer women. While many lived lives of tragedy, many more were and are successful, defying the elements, the living conditions, and the isolation. Ross will explore these women’s experiences through firsthand accounts, including journal and diary entries, personal memories, and the works of Mari Sandoz.

The free event begins at 2:00 PM and is open to the public. For more information, call Jon Harwood at 307-352-6667 x2410.

Sooth. Cæsar!
Cæs. Ha! Who calls?
Casca. Bid every noise be still: peace yet again! [Music ceases]
Cæs. Who is it in the press that calls on me?
I hear a tongue, shriller than all the music,
Cry ‘Cæsar.’ Speak; Cæsar is turn’d to hear.

Sooth. Beware the ides of March.
Cæs. What man is that?
Bru. A soothsayer bids you beware the ides of March.
Cæs. Set him before me; let me see his face.
Cas. Fellow, come from the throng; look upon Cæsar.
Cæs. What sayst thou to me now? Speak once again.
Sooth. Beware the ides of March. – JC I.ii.12-20

The Ides of March? ‘In the ancient Roman calendar the 15th of March, May, July, and October, and the 13th of the other months; always eight days after the Nones’ – Brewer’s Dictionary of Phrase and Fable p. 583

However obscure the Ides have become in our own day, in previous ages it was an ominous date. Plutarch, in The Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans, reveals the foreboding origins of 03/15 – ‘One finds it also related by many that a soothsayer bade him prepare for some great danger on the Ides of March. When this day was come, Caesar, as he went to the senate,met this soothsayer, and said to him by way of the raillery , “The Ides of March are come,” who answered him calmly, “Yes, they are come, but they are not past.” Plutarch p. 601

What did the Soothsayer foresee? Both Plutarch and Shakespeare offer interesting accounts of that particular day of 44 B.C. Visit your local Library for more information.