With so much uncertainty right now, it's a great time to take comfort in some classic books and movies. You can stream or download thousands of familiar eBooks, eAudiobooks and movies from the Hinsdale Public Library's website at https://www.hinsdalelibrary.info.
If you prefer the feeling of a book your hand, the library is now offering curbside service! Give us a call at (630) 986-1976 to request items. Need some suggestions? Here are some oldies-but-goodies for summer.
• "The Boxcar Children" by Gertrude Chandler Warner
A childhood favorite series, these charming mysteries follow four siblings who solve whodunits with nary a parent in sight. The clues are simplistic but it's perfect if you are yearning for simpler times like bread and milk for dinner and sleeping under the stars. Available as a read aloud via the library's streaming app Hoopla or on audiobook CD at the library.
• "Winnie-the-Pooh" by A. A. Milne
Another nostalgic favorite, this gentle read follows the humorous adventures of Winnie and his collection of friends. The artwork is sweet and the characters indelible. Available as a read aloud via the library's streaming app Hoopla or paperback at the library.
• "Dragons Love Tacos" and "Dragons Love Tacos 2" by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri
A time machine, dragons and an ill-fated taco party: what more do you need out of a picture book? A hilarious journey through time and space, you'll want to pick up the sequel as well as the original. While they're not exactly classics, they're destined to be. Available as a hilarious video via the library's streaming app Hoopla or picture book at the library.
If you are feeling particularly ambitious this summer, try these.
• "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville and "Why Read Moby Dick" by Nathanial Philbrooke
The novel may seem daunting, but it is worth it for so many reasons. The characters are unforgettable and the digressions into the minutiae of whaling are fascinating and gory. If you're not convinced, pick up the companion title scribed by an author who tracked down the true story that inspired Moby Dick. Both are available via the library's eBook app Libby or in print in the library.
• "The Odyssey" by Homer
You might have read it in school, but it's worth revisiting this tale of familial bonds and adventure. Just think of Odysseus' journey as the ultimate road trip and you'll be drawn into his struggles to return home to his wife and child. Available as an audiobook via the library's streaming app Hoopla or at the library.
A classic movie is a great change of pace from Netflix. Try "Charade." Since everyone is stuck at home, travel to Paris vicariously with Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. Briskly paced (especially for a vintage film) and intrigue-filled, this spy thriller will transport you to a different era. Fabulous clothes, music by Henry Mancini, and beautiful settings all contribute to make this an iconic movie. Available via the library's streaming app Hoopla or on DVD in the library.
- Ridgeway Burns is the youth and young adult services manager at the Hinsdale Public Library.
