Not too long ago suspense writer Harlan Coben offered some summer reading suggestions on the Today show. One of his choices was Ann Packer’s new book Swim Back to Me featuring two novellas and three short stories. Initially I was surprised that he was recommending shorter fiction for summer reading. But as a long-time fan of the format and Ann Packer in particular, I decided to give it a go, and I am glad I did. Packer hits all the right notes as she examines the daily lives of characters trying to make their way in the world, whether it’s the two teens in the opening novella “Walk for Mankind,” whose relationship is complicated by their growing romantic attraction and their complicated family lives, or the mother in “Molten” who is mourning her late adolescent son while listening to his extensive music collection.

It's here!!! An opportunity to show your art and be part of Royal Oak history.

What: The Art Contest is an adjunct to the Royal Oak Time Capsule Project which celebrates the lives and times of Royal Oak in 2011. The time capsule will let people in 35 years know what we were all about. Photographs of winning art entries will be placed in the time capsule. All art contest participants will have their names included in the time capsule.

Who: Any person who is a resident of Royal Oak; works, goes to school, or community college in Royal Oak; is a member of a church, service organization, or club that meets in the City of Royal Oak is eligible to enter this contest.

The Salter Center Book Discussion Group was established in 2004; and meets every third Monday at 10:00 a.m. in the Senior Room of the Jack and Patti Salter Center, 1545 East Lincoln.

Following is a bibliography of the titles read by the group over the years. To check on availability, click on title and you will be directed to the ROPL Catalog.

One of the great pleasures of summer is reading. Whether it's out on your backyard deck, up north at the lake, or even in a pup tent, it's the perfect time to indulge in a great read. Our staff has come up with an eclectic range of suggestions because it's not only the perfect time to throw a romance or a mystery in the beach bag, it's also a great time to tackle some challenging titles. Of course, let us know about the great titles that you have discovered. And don't miss the timely reads list that will be updated regularly as an eNewsletter.