Summer TV Updates

TV is on a year-round cycle, but you already knew that, so here are show updates. This Yahoo! TV entry lists the shows that have been renewed or canceled since June. I admit to not recognizing half of these, some are, meh. Recent past favorites kept getting the axe, but it gave me more time to work on my book and read. See the Summer Reads posts. 

Glad USA renewed Suits, it's everything you could want in a modern legal drama, and more. Just hope they write some more fast-paced-witty scenes with Mike and Harvey in and out of the courtroom. 

Cheers!

Happy Independence Day!

There are so many reasons this year is a good year to celebrate freedom. While there is turmoil across the globe, we must continue to focus on what is good and right with our country—and our fellow humans.

If you like history, or just want to learn more about Independence Day, I suggest checking out books from the local library, or clicking on the History of Independence Day | A Capitol Fourth | PBS.

If you're in more of a party mood, why not have a picnic at a local park, or your backyard? A study conducted by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (yes, it apparently exists) shows 80 percent of all U.S. households own a grill or smoker. But cook safely. While the Fourth of July is one of the most popular grilling holidays, it can also be dangerous. Make it safer by reading these grilling, highway, and fireworks safety tips from the American Red Cross.

Not into big crowds, or you've got little ones who are in bed by sunset? Modern technology allows us to see fireworks from sea to shining sea. So, grab a lemonade and check your local listings for Fourth of July telecasts. This video of fireworks over the Washington D.C. skyline should help put you in the mood. 

Now, go celebrate! 

Time for New Summer Reads!

Summer is officially here! Time to relax, rejuvenate and read! Here are a few books you may want whether you’re headed to the beach, or the backyard.  

Invasion of Privacy by Christopher Reich

Let’s face it, technology is everywhere. The wife of gunned down FBI agent Joe Grant receives a strange voicemail from her husband that later disappears. When Mary digs into her husband’s death ‘she finds herself on the trail of a secret that could transform the world, and the target of a dangerous psychopath.’ (Paraphrased from Barnes & Noble)

The Wright Brothers by David McCullough

This is for my peeps from the Birthplace of Aviation! If you like this kind of story, you may also want to check out American Genius on the National Geographic Channel. They put together a documentary on the heated race for flight between the Wright Brothers and Glenn Curtiss (as well as some other very interesting rivalries).

“In 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved flight. In his new book, two-time Pulitzer Prize winner David McCullough explores the lives of these two men from Dayton, Ohio—preacher’s sons who did not attend college, and who were bicycle makers and salesmen prior to their invention of the first powered airplane. He sheds light on the skeptical reaction they received from a general public that did not understand their accomplishments, and takes a look at the contributions of their overlooked sister, Katharine. The truths he uncovers are startling and inspirational.” (Barnes & Noble)

Wicked Charms by Janet Evanovich and Phoef Sutton

“Evanovich introduced her New York Times best-selling Lizzy and Diesel series with 2010's Wicked Appetite, featuring dazzling Salem, MA, baker Elizabeth Tucker (her cupcakes drive men mad) and the seductive Diesel, first seen in Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books. Here she brings on multi-award-winning writer/producer/novelist Sutton to help. Each tale involves the search for an ancient relic mysteriously linked to one of the seven deadly sins—in this case, greed.” (Library Journal)

Reading Therapy

There was a recent article in The New Yorker that got me wondering about the benefits of reading. Reading can entertain us, transport us to other worlds, get us react with anger, empathy, feel a range of emotions, and sometimes take action, but can it make us happier? I think a lot depends on the reader and what they're reading.

The author explains 'bibliotherapy' and gives several examples of book prescriptions. There are people who feel strongly enough about book therapy they've made it their career. While the article is lengthy, there is a lot of good stuff to think about as you read it. It gave me a few ideas for literary fiction I may just have to add to my reading list.

Before Summer Reads

It’s still spring, but I like to compile lists of books I want to read before summer vacation. Here are some ideas for the thrill list.

Tom Clancy Under Fire by Grant Blackwood

Jack Ryan Jr. meets with his long-time friend, Seth Gregory. Shortly after their meeting, Seth disappears, accused of turning against his country.

“Jack Ryan’s pursuit of the truth will lead him across Iran, through the war-torn Caucasus, and finally deep into territory coveted by the increasingly aggressive Russian Federation. Along the way, Jack is joined by Seth’s primary agent, Ysabel, a enigmatic Iranian woman who seems to be his only clue to Seth’s whereabouts.” (Overview from Barnes & Noble)

Pirate Hunters: Treasure, Obsession, and the Search for a Legendary Pirate Ship by Robert Kurson

Maybe it’s time for a little high-seas adventure. Praise abounds for this one.

“Action and adventure on land and sea—you can’t ask for more. But Robert Kurson raises the ante in Pirate Hunters with an array of mystery and a fleet of colorful characters spanning four centuries. This is a great summer read!”—Michael Connelly

“Kurson’s own enthusiasm, combined with his copious research and an eye for detail, makes for one of the most mind-blowing pirate stories of recent memory, one that even the staunchest landlubber will have a hard time putting down.” Agent: Flip Brophy, Sterling Lord Literistic. (Info. from B&N)

The President’s Shadow by Brad Meltzer

This is book #3 of the Culper Ring thriller series, but anything that heightens the mystique and intrigue surrounding our nation’s highest office is worth a read.

“A severed arm, found buried in the White House Rose Garden. A lethal message with terrible consequences for the Presidency. And a hidden secret in one family's past that will have repercussions for the entire nation” (Excerpt from B&N)

Nod to the ABC Upfronts and Nashville Season Finale

There is plenty of TV news this week as the networks announce their upcoming fall schedules. Here are some of ABC's newest entries, and thankfully, they're bringing back some favorites, including Castle, S.H.I.E.L.D, Modern Family, and Nashville. If Callie Khouri and company can keep the country music and drama momentum going, they'll be golden, along with Shonda Rhimes (the undisputed queen of Thursday night).
Here's a sneak peek at tonight's Nashville Season Finale. I sure hope they don't kill off Deacon. Although, it looks grim from the clips I've seen. If they do, they better promise to bring him back in numerous clips and flashbacks, or I'm gonna get upset— #Dayna forever!

Anyway, enjoy scouting some new shows to watch or DVR!

Fall TV Clips

Even though it's spring, and the networks recently gutted their schedules, the fall lineup may bring hope. Ken Tucker over at Yahoo gave reviews, and shared clips, for some of Fox's new shows. 

I read the descriptions, but only watched The Grinder clip because I love a good lawyer show. Have since I could understand the word lawyer. Plus, who doesn't like the idea of a Rob Lowe and Fred Savage pairing?

Check them out. The rest of the networks are making announcements, so I'll post updates. Enjoy!