There’s a very shy, unassuming man who was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and grew up and still lives in our very own fair city of Columbus. I bring this man to your attention because he has written a book of poetry that deals with real-life situations---he writes a beautifully written piece about missed opportunities, entitled “A Few Flowers Today” and a very poignant poem called simply, “Regrets”. His language is sparse and plain spoken, but it makes the whole body of his work that much more, dare I say it?--- “reader-friendly”.

The title of the book is “Portals of Life” which is perfectly apropos. You discover that even though most of the work was based on real life situations, you’re able to identify with so many of the instances, whether real or imagined by the author, that you feel he’s writing that poem just for you. Another good example is one that has the same name as the book: “Portals of Life”.

He chose to use a pseudonym instead of his real name. It has a very special meaning to our poet in residence. J. Christian Rivers ---The first initial is actually the first letter in his real name. Christian was chosen because he felt there isn’t enough Christianity in our society today. He felt his book shares a more inspirational message than most books of poetry. Finally, his last name represents a very peaceful spot in his world----some river property that he owns.

Besides spending time in the Army from 1962-1965, he’s lived in Columbus for most of his life. He’s been married for 40 years. He’s been self-employed for the past 10 years and previously worked for the City of Columbus. I’ve convinced our writer in residence to reveal his true identity, at least for the hometown crowd. I’m sure some of you might have guessed already, but, for those who are still puzzling over his name, let me tell you---John Schmidt.

John will have his books of poetry for sale very soon and we hope to convince him to do a reading in the near future.

Our Furry (and Feathered) Friends
If you are an animal lover, nothing brings your heart more joy than to see an animal in need find a loving home. Our crack team of librarians has collected a great list of titles on the subjects of pet adoption and caring for all types of pets--from the furry, to the, well, not so furry. Regardless of whether you prefer your best friend to have four legs, feathers, or fins, something on this list will surely pique your interest.

Bestselling author and Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan takes his principles of dog psychology a step further, showing readers how to develop the calm-assertive energy of a successful pack leader and use it to improve their dogs life and their own. “Be the Pack Leader: Use Cesar's Way to Transform Your Dog . . . and Your Life”

“The Perfect Puppy: How to Choose Your Dog by its Behavior” written by Benjamin Hart, D.V.M. and his wife Lynette Hart is a consumer’s guide to 56 of the most popular American Kennel Club breeds ranked by 13 behavioral traits. You might ask yourself how important is it to match the best breed with your family? Take it from me, this book will save you from making the biggest mistake of your life. It provides you with the essential characteristics --- ease of housebreaking, snapping at children, excessive barking, and that all important : destructiveness, plus 9 more important features and traits to watch for when choosing the perfect puppy.

D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D. has penned a very helpful book entitled: “The Dog Breed Bible”. As you can tell from that very apt title, it contains descriptions and photos of every breed recognized by the AKC. Plus recommendations for training, grooming, exercise, and much more.

Alfred Gingold has written a more literary version of “Marley & Me”. His book with the title, “Dog World: and the humans who live there” does have a point---There are 43 million dog owners and their 55 million dogs living in America today.

We have books on chickens (well, anything in the fowl area ---no pun intended). Also rabbits, goats, snakes, and a plethora of other beasts too numerous to mention.

Call upon any staff member for help, but the reference side of the library has a host of books on many, many subjects---not just animals.