A Woman of Independent Means by Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey.
Inspired by what the author knew of her grandmother’s strength and fierce independence, Hailey recounts the woman’s life at the turn of the century through letters her grandmother might’ve written. I recommend this book not only because of the engaging main character, but for the unique literary device that urged me to use my imagination to fill in the life that surrounds the letters.—Rose Ryan
Maple Grove Libaray
8001 Main St. N.
612.543.6450
Rose Ryan is a librarian at the Maple Grove Library who also schedules programs for adults.
Stack House Merlot
Stack House merlot is a perfect combination of a winemaker from Trinchero Napa Valley and the winemaker at Pina (they are husband and wife), with deep flavor and a hint of smoky or woody at the end. Merlot has gone out of fashion, but it doesn’t discount the grape as a whole. To me, classic is a taste that you will remember, enjoy, and like again. We all remember a great dessert, a beautiful view, a special vacation—and this wine.—John Farrell, III
Haskell's
15304 Grove Circle N.
763.400.7888
John Farrell, III is the vice president of sales and merchandising at the new Haskell’s Super Cellar in Maple Grove.
Galaxy: Awesome Mix, Vol.1
This slightly unusual music pick is a new album that features classic hits. It’s the soundtrack to the movie Guardians of the Galaxy and it’s fantastic listening. In August, it went straight to No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart and has spent several weeks there, with crowd-pleasing tunes like “Hooked on a Feeling” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”— Howard “HK” Kessler
Where to buy:
Barnes & Noble
8040 Wedgewood Lane
763.420.4517
Howard “HK” Kessler is a Grammy-nominated, gold and platinum award- winning producer-artist-remixer who hosts a syndicated radio show.
