Talking Books Talk - Website at State Library of Kansas

Check out what the KTB staff have been reading this month.

Michael Lang, Director

DB 125970 Hum by Helen Phillips
After losing her job to artificial intelligence, May, in a city populated by intelligent robots called "hums," takes her family on a three-night respite to the Botanical Garden, a rare green refuge, where her children come under threat and she is forced to trust a hum to save them. Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 127669 Wild dark shore by Charlotte McConaghy
"A family on a remote island. A mysterious woman washed ashore. A rising storm on the horizon. Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world's largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers, but with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants. Until, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman mysteriously washes ashore. Isolation has taken its toll on the Salts, but as they nurse the woman, Rowan, back to strength, it begins to feel like she might just be what they need. Rowan, long accustomed to protecting herself, starts imagining a future where she could belong to someone again. But Rowan isn't telling the whole truth about why she set out for Shearwater. And when she discovers sabotaged radios and a freshly dug grave, she realizes Dominic is keeping his own secrets. As the storms on Shearwater gather force, they all must decide if they can trust each other enough to protect the precious seeds in their care before it's too late--and if they can finally put the tragedies of the past behind them to create something new, together."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 122092 Service model by Adrian Tchaikovsky
"To fix the world they must first break it, further. Humanity is a dying breed, utterly reliant on artificial labor and service. When a domesticated robot gets a nasty little idea downloaded into its core programming, they murder their owner. The robot discovers they can also do something else they never did before: They can run away. Fleeing the household they enter a wider world they never knew existed, where the age-old hierarchy of humans at the top is disintegrating into ruins and an entire robot ecosystem devoted to human wellbeing is having to find a new purpose. Sometimes all it takes is a nudge to overcome the limits of your programming"-- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

Dylan Calhoon, Patron Services Manager

DB 123864 The fellowship of the ring by J. R. R. Tolkien
"Frodo Baggins, a young hobbit, sets out on a perilous journey to the Cracks of Doom, along with a band of warriors from different kingdoms, to destroy the Dark Lord's Ring of Power."-- WorldCat. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 48972 A wrinkle in time by Madeleine L'Engle
Meg Murry, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and her neighbor Calvin are transported to the planet Camazotz as they search for Meg's lost father, a scientist studying time travel. Prequel to A Wind in the Door (DB 41596, BR 7884). Newbery Medal. For grades 5-8.

DB 78409 The troop by Nick Cutter
Scoutmaster Tim Riggs takes five boys on a wilderness adventure on Prince Edward Island for their last hurrah before they age out of the scouts. But when an intruder stumbles upon their campsite, the trip becomes a struggle for survival. Violence and strong language. 2014.

Nataly Renfro, Machine Clerk

DB 118535 The Silva mind control method by José Silva
"First published in 1978, The Silva Mind Control Method has helped millions of people create better, happier, and more successful lives. Based on the extraordinary course pioneered by José Silva in the 1960s, this accessible guidebook uses meditation and visualization to help you alleviate stress, overcome bad habits and emotional insecurity, increase creativity, develop concentration, harness your dreams, and deepen your relationships. Featuring transformative advice and fascinating case studies, this revolutionary book teaches you to use your mind at a deeper and more effective level and reveal its extraordinary power." -- Provided by publisher. -- Commercial audiobook.

Maggie Witte, Outreach Librarian

DB 100898 A deadly education: Scholomance series, book 1 by Naomi Novik
Galadriel is a dark sorceress in training at the Scholomance, a school for the magically gifted. An outcast among the students, El must survive the dangerous institution, face hordes of monsters and cursed artifacts, and deal with the insufferably heroic Orion Lake. Some strong language, violence. Commercial audiobook. 2020.

DB 105283 The last graduate: Scholomance series, book 2 by Naomi Novik
The final year at Scholomance begins with the looming specter of matriculation--a deadly and savage ritual that leaves few students alive after. Worried about her group's chances of survival, El soon realizes that sometimes winning the game means throwing out all the rules. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2021.

DB 112373 The golden enclaves: Scholomance series, book 3 by Naomi Novik
"The one thing you never talk about while you're in the Scholomance is what you'll do when you get out. Not even the richest enclaver would tempt fate that way. But it's all we dream about: the hideously slim chance we'll survive to make it out the gates and improbably find ourselves with a life ahead of us, a life outside the Scholomance halls. And now the impossible dream has come true. I'm out, we're all out-and I didn't even have to turn into a monstrous dark witch to make it happen. So much for my great-grandmother's prophecy of doom and destruction. I didn't kill enclavers, I saved them. Me and Orion and our allies. Our graduation plan worked to perfection: We saved everyone and made the world safe for all wizards and brought peace and harmony to all the enclaves everywhere. Ha, only joking! Actually, it's gone all wrong. Someone else has picked up the project of destroying enclaves in my stead, and probably everyone we saved is about to get killed in the brewing enclave war. And the first thing I've got to do now, having miraculously gotten out of the Scholomance, is turn straight around and find a way back in." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 126666 Single white vampire: Argeneau series, book 3 by Lynsay Sands
"SWM--"Lucern." Successful biographer of family, books recently categorized as "paranormal romance." Something of a recluse. Hates crowds, aggressive women. Doesn't like sunbathing, garlicky dinners or religious symbols. Likes old-fashioned values; spicy Mexican dishes; warm, nice-smelling neck; and plump red lips. Stronger than ten men and can vanish in the blink of an eye. Currently unaware he's seeking a woman to share eternity. SWF--"Kate C. Leever." Newest editor of Romance at Roundhouse Publishing. Perky, fun. Has recently discovered a legacy author just dying to be broken out. In fact, her career could take off from it. (The tall, dark, handsome writer just needs to be taken to several romance conventions and introduced to his fans...and stopped from acting so strange in public.) Dislikes "difficult, rude, obnoxious, pig-headed writers." Currently unaware she's met the man of her wildest dreams. OH, DEAR."-- Goodreads. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 126667 Tall, dark & hungry Argeneau series, book 4 by Lynsay Sands
"Terri had flown from England to help plan her cousin's wedding, but paying for a New York hotel room was like giving blood! But she had an alternative: the new in-laws were offering lodging. Of course, the Argeneaus were a certifiably odd bunch. There was the sometimes chipper, sometimes brooding Lucern--a "vampire romance" writer. There was the wacky stage actor, Vincent. She couldn't imagine Broadway casting a more ravenous singing-and-dancing Dracula. And then there was Bastien. Of this unique cast of characters, he seemed the tallest, darkest and hungriest--and his effect on Terri was decidedly delicious. Just looking into his eyes made her want to serve up her innocence on a silver platter. And she had a feeling the love feast was about to begin."-- Goodreads. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 127058 A bite to remember: Argeneau series, book 5 by Lynsay Sands
"Rule #1: Never get involved with someone who won't be there for you when the sun comes up. Once bitten, twice shy, and sexy PI Jackie Morrisey wasn't going there again. Vincent Argeneau may be the hottest guy she's ever met, living or dead, but she's here to stop a killer from turning this vampire into dust, not to jump into bed with him."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 127059 Bite me if you can: Argeneau series, book 6 by Lynsay Sands
"One minute Leigh is walking home in the early hours of the morning, and the next a vampire is sinking his teeth into her neck. Turns out it was a rogue vampire marked for termination, but it does Leigh little good because the damage's already been done. She's become one of them. Lucian Argeneau, hunter of rogue vampires, has been alive for over two thousand years, and there's very little to excite him anymore. Food has become tasteless, sex is ordinary. Then Leigh drops into his life. Suddenly he finds himself craving coffee...and imagining the sassy brunette atop the black satin sheets on his nice big bed. It's Lucian's job now to enlighten Leigh on the inner workings of being immortal...and tutoring her is igniting a fire in him that hasn't burned in centuries. But until they stop a renegade bloodsucker from destroying the human race, passion will have to wait!"-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 127300 The accidental vampire: Argeneau series, book 7 by Lynsay Sands
"Ever since an accident turned her into a knockout vamp, Elvi Black's been catching her z's in a coffin, staying out of the sun, and giving up garlic. She knows there's more to being undead than what she saw in Dracula, but she can't very well ask her mortal friends about proper biting etiquette. But when her neighbors placed a personal ad for her in the local paper, she never imagined she'd meet Victor Argeneau, a vampire who could have his pick of any woman--dead or alive..."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.

DB 75277 Double cross: the true story of the D-day spies by Ben Macintyre
Author of Operation Mincemeat (DB 71406) recounts the deception the Allies used to keep secret the planned location of their 1944 invasion of France. Details the efforts of Tommy "Tar" Robertson of Britain's MI5 to turn playboys, party girls, and eccentrics--all of whom were Nazi spies--into double agents. Bestseller. 2012.

Recent Posts

Color Our World: Art in History

Art has existed for thousands of years and has evolved over the years. Art encompasses so many different methods of creation such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, and more. Learn about what art is and the history of art with this selection of books from our catalog.DB 21009 The story of art by E. H. GombrichA survey of the history of art that provides a springboard for an intelligent appreciation and understanding of painting, architecture, and sculpture. The author discusses the artists and their works within their historic context.DB 48873 The beginner's guide to art edited by Brigitte GovignonDesigned to help the reader understand and appreciate art. Covers developments in architecture, sculpture, and painting from 30,000 B.C. to 1995. Includes brief biographies of major figures in the evolution of Western forms of expression. For junior and senior high and older readers.DB 55715 History of art for young people by H.W. Janson and Anthony F. JansonProvides basic coverage of art in Europe and North America--from prehistoric to modern times--covering painting, sculpture, and architecture. Discusses concepts, events, movements, symbols, techniques, and major figures. For junior and senior high readers. 2003.DB 86452 Art theory: a very short introduction by Cynthia A. FreelandA survey of art from ancient times to the present and the ways theorists have tried to understand and explain its meaning. Topics include the roles of museums and the art market, the relevance of artists' private lives to interpretations of their work, and twenty-first-century cyber-art. 2001.DB 85688 Art history: a very short introduction by Dana ArnoldChallenges traditional histories that emphasize styles and periods. Explores writings over a broad time span, from Pliny to Pollock. Discusses iconography and symbolism, media and techniques of production, the importance of museum collections, and how key thinkers in philosophy and psychoanalysis have interacted with art history. Includes glossary. 2004.DB 54489 Art, the critics' choice: 150 masterpieces of western art selected and defined by the experts by John RussellA brief chronological history of Western art. An introductory overview of classical and early Christian art is followed by ten essays in which period specialists discuss exemplary masterworks, from the Middle Ages to the late twentieth century. Themes explored throughout include the relationships between painters and their subjects and the influence of particular works. 1999.DB 58659 The arts by Hendrik Willem van LoonA cultural survey of painting, sculpture, architecture, music, theatre, and many minor arts from prehistory to the twentieth century by the author of Van Loon's Lives (DB 55071). Covers creative expression in ancient Egypt and Greece, the Middle Ages, and the Renaissance. Revised and updated 1974. 1937.DB 116729 The story of art without men by Katy Hessel"How many women artists do you know? Who makes art history? Did women even work as artists before the twentieth century? And what is the Baroque anyway? Guided by Katy Hessel, art historian and founder of @thegreatwomenartists, discover the glittering paintings by Sofonisba Anguissola of the Renaissance, the radical work of Harriet Powers in the nineteenth-century United States and the artist who really invented the "readymade." Explore the Dutch Golden Age, the astonishing work of postwar artists in Latin America, and the women defining art in the 2020s. Have your sense of art history overturned and your eyes opened to many artforms often ignored or dismissed. From the Cornish coast to Manhattan, Nigeria to Japan, this is the history of art as it's never been told before." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 125586 The world according to color: a cultural history by James Fox"A kaleidoscopic exploration that traverses history, literature, art, and science to reveal humans' unique and vibrant relationship with color. We have an extraordinary connection to color--we give it meanings, associations, and properties that last millennia and span cultures, continents, and languages. In The World According to Color, James Fox takes seven main colors--black, red, yellow, blue, white, purple, and green--and uncovers behind each a root idea, based on visual resemblances and common symbolism throughout history. Through a series of stories and vignettes, the book then traces these meanings to show how they morphed and multiplied and, ultimately, how they reveal a great deal about the societies that produced them: reflecting and shaping their hopes, fears, prejudices, and preoccupations. Fox also examines the science of how our eyes and brains interpret light and color, and shows how this is inherently linked with the meanings we give to hue. And using his background as an art historian, he explores many of the milestones in the history of art--from Bronze Age gold-work to Turner, Titian to Yves Klein--in a fresh way. Fox also weaves in literature, philosophy, cinema, archaeology, and art--moving from Monet to Marco Polo, early Japanese ink artists to Shakespeare and Goethe to James Bond. By creating a new history of color, Fox reveals a new story about humans and our place in the universe: second only to language, color is the greatest carrier of cultural meaning in our world" -- Provided by publisher.DB 14958 Gardner's Art through the ages by Helen Gardner; rev. by Horst de la Croix and Richard G. TanseyA survey that traces the history of western art from the Stone Age to the present. The art forms explored include painting, sculpture, and architecture.DB 125441 Artcurious: stories of the unexpected, slightly odd, and strangely wonderful in art history by Jennifer Dasal"From the host of the ArtCurious podcast, this book looks at the world of art history, revealing some of the strangest, funniest, and most fascinating stories behind the world's great artists and masterpieces. It demonstrates why art history is, and continues to be, a riveting and relevant world to explore."-- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 83821 Famous works of art - and how they got that way by John NiciArt historian identifies twenty works of art, ranging from ancient to contemporary, and explains why the pieces became famous. Includes the Great Sphinx and the Tomb of Tutankhamun from Egypt, the Elgin Marbles from Greece, the Mona Lisa from Italy, and American Gothic and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial from the US. 2015DB 85582 Architecture: a very short introduction by Andrew BallantyneArchitect and professor leads tour of buildings, past and present-- landmarks, monuments, palaces, and cathedrals as well as homes and offices--to demonstrate how architecture contributes to understanding what was and is important to us. Discusses architectural history from technical, economic, political, and aesthetic perspectives. Includes glossary. 2002....

June 2025 Staff Picks

Find out what the KTB staff has been reading recently in this list of staff picks.Maggie Witte, Outreach LibrarianDB 127301 Vampires are forever: Argeneau, book 8 by Lynsay Sands "Despite her determination not to mix business with pleasure, Inez Urso is drawn to her sexy business associate, Thomas Argeneau, who seems to be allergic to the sun, has excellent night vision, and has the desire to nibble on her neck."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127465 Vampire, interrupted: Argeneau, book 9 by Lynsay Sands "After seven hundred years of life, Marguerite Argeneau finally has a career. Well, the start of one, anyway. She's training to be a private investigator, and her first assignment is to find an immortal's mother. It seemed simple enough, until Marguerite wakes up one evening to find herself at the wrong end of a sword. Now she realizes she's in way over her head. Julius Notte wants to protect Marguerite, and not because someone just tried to take her head off. She doesn't know it yet, but she's his lifemate and he's determined to woo her. It's been over five hundred years since he last courted a woman, but surely the techniques haven't changed. Now if only he can keep her alive--so to speak--so they can have that happily-ever-after."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127351 The rogue hunter: Argeneau, book 10 by Lynsay Sands "Samantha Willan is a workaholic lawyer. She's grateful for some rest and relaxation in cottage country, and after a recent breakup she wants to stay as far away from romance as possible. Then she meets her irresistible new neighbor. There's something strange and mysterious about his eyes. Is it just her imagination, or are they locked on her neck? Garrett Mortimer is a rogue hunter. His last assignment united Lucian Argeneau with his lifemate, and Mortimer is hoping this one will be less...adventurous. He's here to track down a reported rogue, but fun in the sun is every bloodsucker's nightmare. Worse, he can't seem to get his mind off Samantha, especially when he spies her skinny-dipping in the lake. After eight hundred years as a bachelor, is he ready to turn a volatile attraction into a lasting love affair?"-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127651 The immortal hunter: Argeneau, book 11 by Lynsay Sands "When vampire Decker Argeneau saves the life of Danielle McGill, who is the target of a group of rogue vampires, he must convince the beautiful doctor that he is her immortal soulmate and destined to love her forever."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 128056 The renegade hunter: Argeneau, book 12 by Lynsay Sands "The Argeneau family has a secret...one of their own is a rogue vampire! Nicholas Argeneau was once a successful hunter who went after rogue vampires who broke the immortal law. Except no one has mentioned his name in the last fifty years, not since he turned into a rogue himself. But once a hunter, always a hunter. When Nicholas sees a bloodthirsty sucker terrifying a woman, it's second nature for him to come to her rescue. He had no idea he would also want to kiss her senseless..."-- From publisher.DB 128092 Born to bite: Argeneau, book 13 by Lynsay Sands "Legend has it that Armand Argeneau is a killer in the bedroom... But with all three of his late wives meeting unfortunate and untimely ends, is this sexy immortal a lover or a murderer? That's what Eshe d'Aureus intends to find out. As an enforcer, it's her job to bring rogue vampires to justice, even if the rogue in question makes her blood race red hot..."-- From publisher.DB 128254 Hungry for you: Argeneau, book 14 by Lynsay Sands "As one of the most ancient in the Argeneau clan, Cale Valens has given up on finding a life mate. His friends and family, however, have not. In fact, they believe they've finally found his perfect match. Getting them together, however, requires one little white lie. Alexandra Willan is in a panic. Her restaurant is due to open in two weeks, but her chef just walked out. Then a highly recommended replacement arrives, an impossibly handsome culinary genius who sends electric tingles racing through her body... Except he can't cook. In fact, Cale hasn't eaten real food in two thousand years. Yet he's determined to prove to Alex his prowess in the kitchen...and elsewhere. Because never has he hungered so for any mortal woman. And not just for a taste of her, but for the whole delicious feast!"-- Goodreads.DB 128741 The reluctant vampire: Argeneau, book 15 by Lynsay Sands "Rogue hunter Drina Argenis (from the Spanish side of the Argeneau family) has been many things in her years as an immortal, but bodyguard/babysitter to a teenage vampire is something new. There's an incentive, however: the other vampsitter, Harper Stoyan, may be Drina's life mate. Trouble is, having just lost a life mate, Harper is resigned to being alone. He's completely unprepared when sexy and unpredictable Drina bursts into his life to reignite his passions. Can Drina, with a little matchmaking help from their teen charge, tempt this reluctant vampire to take a chance? Or will a dangerous, unseen renegade kill Drina and Harper's one chance at happiness?"-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 105442 The last Mona Lisa by Jonathan Santlofer In 1911, the Mona Lisa is stolen. More than one hundred years later, art professor Luke Perrone digs for the truth of his most famous ancestor, Vincent Peruggia, the man who stole the Mona Lisa. But Luke uncovers darker secrets. Violence, strong language, and some explicit descriptions of sex. 2021.DB 78375 An officer and a spy by Robert Harris Fictionalized account of the events surrounding French officer Alfred Dreyfus's treason conviction in 1895. Georges Picquart is the newly appointed head of the counterespionage agency that accused Dreyfus, a Jew, of passing secrets to the Germans. But Picquart later finds information that changes everything. Bestseller. 2013.Dylan Calhoon, Patron Services ManagerDB 69579 The magicians, book 1 by Lev Grossman Bored with life, Quentin Coldwater spends his time reading fantasy and dreaming of the mythical realm of Fillory. But after being transported off the street to the Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy, Quentin realizes that real sorcery isn't easy. Strong language and some descriptions of sex. Bestseller. 2009. Bored with life, Quentin Coldwater spends his time reading fantasy and dreaming of the mythical realm of Fillory. But after being transported off the street to the Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy, Quentin realizes that real sorcery isn't easy. Strong language and some descriptions of sex. Bestseller. 2009.DB 73928 The magician king: Magicians, book 2 by Lev Grossman Quentin, from The Magicians (DB 69579), becomes bored with his cushy life in Fillory and searches for adventure. But somehow he and his friend Julia end up back on Earth and have to search for a way back to Fillory. Strong language and some descriptions of sex. Bestseller. 2011.DB 79822 The magician's land: Magicians, book 3 by Lev Grossman After the events of The Magician King (DB 73928), Quentin Coldwater, the erstwhile king of Fillory, returns to the Brakebills Preparatory College of Magic. However, when barbarians attack Fillory, Quentin begins a quest that leads back to the home of his heart. Strong language and some descriptions of sex. Bestseller. 2014.Sarah Bruemmer, Library AssistantDB 86553 Lodestar: Keeper of the lost cities, book 5 by Shannon Messenger As the ogres threaten war, Sophie isn't sure whom to trust, and she worries about the safety of her loved ones. She works to translate a symbol and piece together the clues to stop the Neverseen. Sequel to Everblaze; Neverseen (DB 83402). For grades 5-8. 2016.Michael Lang, DirectorDB 101686 Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy Nomadic Franny Stone arrives in Greenland with one goal--to trail what is possibly the final migration of the world's last Arctic terns. She talks her way onto a fishing boat, but as Franny's history is revealed, it becomes clear that there is more to her mission. Contains some descriptions of sex and strong language. Commercial audiobook. 2020....

Kansas Talking Book News Update – Summer 2025

From the Director’s DeskHappy Summer and Thank You! Over the past few months, many of you contacted us concerned about the potential loss of funding due to cuts at the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). You also contacted lawmakers to voice your support and appreciation for the services the State Library of Kansas and Kansas Talking Books provide. Thank you for raising your voice and supporting libraries! On May 13, 2025, a ruling by the U.S. District Court of Rhode Island reinstated IMLS staff, stated grants shall not be terminated, and ordered all awarded grants dispersed as intended. This is a very sweet victory for library users. However, there could be more challenges in the future. Making sure that your family, friends, communities, and decision makers understand the importance of accessible library services is important in sustaining current services and meeting future challenges. So, again, thank you. Thank you for raising awareness and voicing your support. If you ever want to discuss these issues, as they arise, I am always happy to talk over the phone 620-341-6287 or email me michael.lang@ks.gov. Keep reading for Summer Reading info, KTB news, NLS updates, book recommendations, and more. Enjoy the warm weather and read on!–Michael Lang, Director Kansas Talking Book UpdatesSummer Reading 2025, Color Our WorldKansas Talking Books invites all patrons to explore the vibrant world of reading filled with stories, imagination, and creativity where words can “color our world.” Register online or by contacting the talking books library. Anyone who registers for the summer reading program is automatically entered into the weekly prize drawings for a $10 Walmart gift card. The program runs Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 1, meaning there are nine chances to win a gift card just by registering. Not only that, if you return your reading log showing you met the minimum reading requirements (for adults, that’s reading 5 books; for youth patrons, read at least 60 minutes each week), you are entered in the grand prize drawing to win a $50 Walmart gift card. In addition, there will be themed book recommendation lists and fun activities posted each week to our Facebook page and Summer Reading webpage. Many virtual events will be offered during the program. NLS has five virtual events scheduled, from a kickoff event with Mac Barnett to a night of conversation with Master Chef Christine Ha. Find out more on their Summer Reading webpage. In addition to the NLS events, KTB will host our quarterly virtual book club that ties into our first ever in-person workshop developed in partnership with Envision Arts Gallery. Quarterly Virtual Book Club, June 11, at 12:00 p.m.All patrons are invited to participate in our quarterly book club to discuss DB 105442 The Last Mona Lisa by Jonathan Santlofer. In 1911, the Mona Lisa is stolen. More than one hundred years later, art professor Luke Perrone digs for the truth of his most famous ancestor, Vincent Peruggia, the man who stole the Mona Lisa. But Luke uncovers darker secrets. Violence, strong language, and some explicit descriptions of sex.If you are interested in participating, call Maggie at 620-341-6281 or email maggie.witte@ks.gov. The Touchable Mona LisaHosted by The Envision Arts Gallery, in partnership with Kansas Talking Books. Saturday, June 14, 1:00 – 3:00 PM.During this workshop, inspired by The Last Mona Lisa, participants will try their hand at creating their own forgery of the world’s most famous painting. Using a variety of fabrics, textured papers, and other tactile materials participants will create a collage on an embossed outline of the Mona Lisa.There are still seats available, but space is limited. Contact Maggie at 620-341-6281 or maggie.witte@ks.gov to reserve your space. The Envision Arts Gallery is located in Wichita at 801 E Douglas Ave, Suite 106. 2025 Virtual Book Club Dates & BooksThe quarterly virtual book club meets at noon on the second Wednesday of March, June, September, and December. All patrons are invited to attend. You do not need a computer to participate. If you are interested, please contact the office at 1-800-362-0699. The next book club selections are: September 10: DB 100535 The Big Door Prize by M. O. Walsh. Annotation: The residents of Deerfield, Louisiana, are intrigued when the mysterious DNAMIX machine appears in their local grocery store. With just a quick swab of your cheek and two dollars, the device claims to use the science of DNA to tell you your life's potential. Explicit descriptions of sex, strong language, some violence. Commercial audiobook. 2020. December 10: DB 52929 Skipping Christmas by John Grisham.Annotation: Tax accountant Luther Krank calculates that a Caribbean cruise will cost less than what he and his wife, Nora, spent celebrating the holidays last year. Since daughter Blair is in the Peace Corps, they plan to skip Christmas. Luther, however, doesn't anticipate the town's reaction. Some strong language. Bestseller. 2001. Birding by EarIf you were unable to attend the Birding by Ear virtual event but would like to access the recording and other resources that were provided, please contact the office at 1-800-362-0699 or KTB@ks.gov. Digital Braille TransitionStarting in July, patrons with braille eReaders will receive support and, if needed, borrow digital braille on cartridge through Kansas Talking Books. Utah State Library for the Blind & Disabled will continue to circulate physical braille books to Kansas readers but no longer be the contact point for digital braille. Manhattan VIP Book Club Dates & BooksThis book club is open to all Kansas Talking Books patrons. They meet using Zoom which can be accessed by calling in by phone or using a computer/smart device. Meetings are held at 1:00 on the third Tuesday of the month. Please contact the KTB staff at 1-800-362-0699 to register. On June 17th the book club will be discussing two books. DB 78375 An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris Annotation: Fictionalized account of the events surrounding French officer Alfred Dreyfus's treason conviction in 1895. Georges Picquart is the newly appointed head of the counterespionage agency that accused Dreyfus, a Jew, of passing secrets to the Germans. But Picquart later finds information that changes everything. Bestseller. 2013. and DB 75277 Double Cross: The true story of the D-Day spies by Ben Macintyre.Annotation: Author of Operation Mincemeat (DB 71406) recounts the deception the Allies used to keep secret the planned location of their 1944 invasion of France. Details the efforts of Tommy "Tar" Robertson of Britain's MI5 to turn playboys, party girls, and eccentrics--all of whom were Nazi spies--into double agents. Bestseller. 2012. NFB-Newsline Testers NeededImprovements are coming to the way users access NFB-Newsline by touch-tone phone and NFB needs your help. If you regularly access NFB-Newsline by phone, consider volunteering as a beta tester for this brand new call system. This is your chance to preview enhanced features and the new voices of Sophia and Mark, which many of you already enjoy on the Amazon Alexa skill. Your feedback will help create a better, more enjoyable experience for all subscribers. Interested? Contact Scott White at swhite@nfb.org for an application. KTB Phone UpgradesKansas Talking Books has switched over to a new phone system. This change has come with a few unexpected challenges. If they’ve caused you any frustration, we apologize. The biggest change you’ll notice is to the menu when you call the toll-free line or 620-341-6280. The menu options for pressing one or three are still present but we have added a voice select option. Staying on the line will no longer transfer you to an available staff member. The menu message will repeat three times and then finally transfer you, but that is a long wait. We are still making small adjustments to the system, but any new changes shouldn’t be noticeable as a caller. If you are having trouble with the new phone system, please let us know so that we can address the issue.. News from NLSNLS Summer Reading ProgramThe third annual NLS Summer Reading Program will run Monday, June 16, through Friday, August 15. Join patrons from across the nation at these NLS sponsored virtual events. Advanced registration is required for each event. Summer Reading Program Kickoff. Monday, June 16, 12 to 1 p.m. Join author Mac Barnett for this live Summer Reading Program kickoff event with a reading of his book Extra Yarn (DB 127239).Master Gardener Roger Erpelding. Monday, June 23, 3 to 4 p.m. Summer is a great time to get your garden growing. Master Gardener Roger Erpelding is here to help you do just that!Storyteller Donna Washington. Thursday, June 26, 3 to 4 p.m. This one’s for the kids—or kids at heart. Donna Washington will lead an inclusive storytelling hour for children, engaging with participants in a fun and accessible way.Master Chef Christine Ha. Monday, July 14, 6 to 7 p.m. When Christine Ha won the third season of MasterChef, she was the first blind contestant on the show! Join us for a night of conversation about cooking, reading, and everything in between.Musician Jono Manson. Thursday, July 24, 6 to 7 p.m. Jono Manson has been playing his brand of music for decades, collaborating and touring with some of the biggest names in the business. Join us for a lighthearted interview that captures some of Jono’s stories and memories.You can access more information about each event and the registration links through the NLS Summer Reading webpage. To get the latest NLS news and programs updates directly to your inbox, sign up for the NLS Patron Announce email list. Send your name and email address to the Patron Engagement Section at NLSPES@loc.gov. You can unsubscribe yourself from the list at any time Barcode Tracking for BooksNLS has implemented USPS mail tracking for address cards. With this enhancement, an Intelligent Mail barcode is assigned at the time an address card is printed. This tracking number can be used to track the cartridge as it progresses through the mail delivery system. Hopefully, this will allow us to locate items moving slowly though the system. New Book Uploads to BARDNLS is updating its catalog database which will have a temporary impact on new reading materials added to BARD. May 22 through June 4, new books and magazines added to BARD will temporarily not display all their information, including narrator and reading time. To be clear, new titles added to BARD during this time will be available for you to read; however, some information about them will not be displayed. After June 4, NLS will begin adding information about the narrator and reading time to these new titles. It may be as long as two weeks before all the new titles have that information. Thank you for your understanding as NLS continues to make updates to improve your service. Readers’ Advisor Recommends: Summer EatsEnjoy the heat with great summer eats. We’re recommending cookbooks that feature grilling, BBQ, and other outdoor cooking perfect for the upcoming summer days. Please note we are still accepting recipe submissions for the Community Table project where you share your recipes and the memories associated with those recipes. These recipes and memories will be featured in a special collection of contributions from patrons and staff across the nation. You can share your recipes and memories with us via mail, email or phone. DB 105171 Rodney Scott's World of BBQ: Every day is a good day by Rodney Scott & Lolis Eric Elie. Annotation: Memoir and collection of recipes by James Beard Award-winning barbecue specialist. Topics include Scott beginning work at his family barbecue joint as a child, South Carolinian foodways and traditions, and his journey to expand his experiences beyond Charleston. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2021. DB 65023 Cooking in a Can: More campfire recipes for kids by Katherine L. White. Annotation: Describes family activities for outdoor cooking in a can, pit, or solar oven or on rocks or coals. Covers planning, safety rules, necessary materials, and cleanup. Recipes range from a simple sandwich and soup to breakfast in a paper bag and pudding cake. Adult supervision recommended. For grades 3-6. 2006. DBG 08113 Bobby Flay’s Grill It! by Bobby Flay.Annotation: Fire up the best backyard bashes with 150 simple and delicious recipes from grilling guru Flay; a selection of inventive ideas for easy meals that are fresh, flavorful, and fun to cook. 2008. Unrated. DB 56188 Al Roker’s Big Bad Book of Barbecue: 100 easy recipes for backyard barbeque and grilling by Al Roker.Annotation: Television weatherman on the Today show shares his recipes for outdoor charcoal-grilling meat as well as preparing easy sauces, appetizers, salads, drinks, and desserts in the kitchen. 2002. DB 50091 Essentials of Cooking by James Peterson.Annotation: Rather than offering a collection of recipes, Peterson presents a series of basic instructions for various cooking methods. Includes peeling and cutting fruits and vegetables; making sauces and stews; and roasting, grilling, frying, sautéing, or poaching fruits, meats, and vegetables. Also includes kitchen notes and tips. 1999. DB 55788 The Fannie Farmer Cookbook by Marion Cunningham.Annotation: Thirteenth revised edition celebrating the one hundredth anniversary of America's great classic cookbook. Includes chapters on outdoor grilling and preparing vegetarian dishes. Also contains some 325 ethnic and about 50 microwave recipes, in addition to the standard favorites. 1996. Services Spotlight: The Envision Arts GalleryThe Envision Arts Gallery is the premier, national destination for artists and audiences who are blind, visually impaired and/or disabled. Located in the heart of downtown Wichita, in the historic Union Station, Envision Arts Gallery has become a beacon of hope and inspiration to the community as they create access to the arts for all people. Their mission is to empower these amazing individuals to exhibit, perform and engage the community through an accessible, diverse, and inclusive space for the arts.From First Friday art crawls, to workshops in partnership with agencies like the State Library of Kansas Talking Books, to monthly Creative Connections meet-ups, they continue to create opportunities for their community to connect with their mission in meaningful and impactful ways.The Envision Arts Gallery is an initiative of Envision, a non-profit organization headquartered in Wichita for 91 years. Local Books on BARDCheck out these recently added books recorded by our fabulous volunteers and produced by KTB staff. DBC 05137 Amelia Earhart: The legend of the lost aviator by Shelley Tanaka. Ever since Amelia Earhart and her plane disappeared on July 2, 1937, people have wanted to know more about this remarkable woman. Amelia Earhart follows the charismatic aviator from her first sight of an airplane at the age of ten to the last radio transmission she made before she vanished. For grades 3-6. DBC 08671 Last Wild Places of Kansas: Journeys into hidden landscapes by George Frazier.Annotation: This book, a journey into hidden landscapes, seeks out remnants of unconscripted natural loveliness within a state. Frazier reclaims the beauty of the understated and forgotten. Award winner. DBC 08673 Gunpowder Girls: The true stories of three Civil War tragedies by Tanya Anderson.Annotation: With thousands of men off fighting in the Civil War, the government hired women and girls--some as young as ten--to make millions of rounds of ammunition. Poor immigrant girls and widows paid the price for carelessness at three major arsenals. Many of these workers were killed, blown up and burned beyond recognition. For grades 6-9. DBC 29585 Courtesy Boy: A true story of addiction by Mike Matson.Annotation: Thirty years after my last ingestion of chemicals, I inventoried the traits and behaviors connected with my addiction, chronicled my early adult life, and wrote a book. Addiction itself is not linear. It's an insidious mosaic of multi-layered behaviors, circumstances, traits, and events that leads eventually to a perspective that can only be gleaned, accurately and wholly, in hindsight. Courtesy Boy is the reconstruction of that mosaic. My motivation is to help those suffering and their loved ones connect the dots between the destructive traits and behaviors and the potential for addiction. In so doing, infuse some fresh air into the oppressive stigma that clings to addiction and mental health. Some strong language. DBC 29587 When Everyone Leads: The toughest challenges get seen and solved by Ed O'Malley & Julia Fabris McBride.Annotation: Leadership is not about position, or authority. It's not about big speeches or grand visions. Leadership is engaging others to solve daunting challenges. Those challenges appear in our professional lives, in our communities, our families and they seem unsolvable, beyond our ability to see what needs to be done or outside our capacity to make the changes needed. They are not. Leadership is an activity, small actions taken in moments of opportunity. As you start to look around, you learn to see more of those moments, and seize the opportunity in those moments. Most importantly, you can help others see those opportunities too. That's why everyone can lead and the real power to solve our most important challenges is when everyone leads. Commercial Audiobook. Upcoming State and Postal HolidaysJuneteenth: Thursday, June 19. Library Closed & Postal Holiday.Independence Day: Friday, July 4. Library Closed & Postal Holiday.Labor Day: Monday, Sept. 1. Library Closed & Postal Holiday. Contact Information for Kansas Talking Books 1 Kellogg Circle, Box 4055 Emporia, KS 66801 Toll-Free phone: 1-800-362-0699 620-341-6280 Hours: Monday – Friday8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.mEmail: KTB@ks.govWebsite: https://library.ks.gov/talking-books Talking Books Talk Blog: https://library.ks.gov/blogs/talking-books-talk On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kansas.talking.books.service ...

May 2025 Staff Picks

Check out what the KTB staff have been reading this month. Michael Lang, DirectorDB 125970 Hum by Helen Phillips After losing her job to artificial intelligence, May, in a city populated by intelligent robots called "hums," takes her family on a three-night respite to the Botanical Garden, a rare green refuge, where her children come under threat and she is forced to trust a hum to save them. Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127669 Wild dark shore by Charlotte McConaghy "A family on a remote island. A mysterious woman washed ashore. A rising storm on the horizon. Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world's largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers, but with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants. Until, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman mysteriously washes ashore. Isolation has taken its toll on the Salts, but as they nurse the woman, Rowan, back to strength, it begins to feel like she might just be what they need. Rowan, long accustomed to protecting herself, starts imagining a future where she could belong to someone again. But Rowan isn't telling the whole truth about why she set out for Shearwater. And when she discovers sabotaged radios and a freshly dug grave, she realizes Dominic is keeping his own secrets. As the storms on Shearwater gather force, they all must decide if they can trust each other enough to protect the precious seeds in their care before it's too late--and if they can finally put the tragedies of the past behind them to create something new, together."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 122092 Service model by Adrian Tchaikovsky "To fix the world they must first break it, further. Humanity is a dying breed, utterly reliant on artificial labor and service. When a domesticated robot gets a nasty little idea downloaded into its core programming, they murder their owner. The robot discovers they can also do something else they never did before: They can run away. Fleeing the household they enter a wider world they never knew existed, where the age-old hierarchy of humans at the top is disintegrating into ruins and an entire robot ecosystem devoted to human wellbeing is having to find a new purpose. Sometimes all it takes is a nudge to overcome the limits of your programming"-- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.Dylan Calhoon, Patron Services ManagerDB 123864 The fellowship of the ring by J. R. R. Tolkien "Frodo Baggins, a young hobbit, sets out on a perilous journey to the Cracks of Doom, along with a band of warriors from different kingdoms, to destroy the Dark Lord's Ring of Power."-- WorldCat. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 48972 A wrinkle in time by Madeleine L'Engle Meg Murry, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and her neighbor Calvin are transported to the planet Camazotz as they search for Meg's lost father, a scientist studying time travel. Prequel to A Wind in the Door (DB 41596, BR 7884). Newbery Medal. For grades 5-8.DB 78409 The troop by Nick Cutter Scoutmaster Tim Riggs takes five boys on a wilderness adventure on Prince Edward Island for their last hurrah before they age out of the scouts. But when an intruder stumbles upon their campsite, the trip becomes a struggle for survival. Violence and strong language. 2014.Nataly Renfro, Machine ClerkDB 118535 The Silva mind control method by José Silva "First published in 1978, The Silva Mind Control Method has helped millions of people create better, happier, and more successful lives. Based on the extraordinary course pioneered by José Silva in the 1960s, this accessible guidebook uses meditation and visualization to help you alleviate stress, overcome bad habits and emotional insecurity, increase creativity, develop concentration, harness your dreams, and deepen your relationships. Featuring transformative advice and fascinating case studies, this revolutionary book teaches you to use your mind at a deeper and more effective level and reveal its extraordinary power." -- Provided by publisher. -- Commercial audiobook.Maggie Witte, Outreach LibrarianDB 100898 A deadly education: Scholomance series, book 1 by Naomi Novik Galadriel is a dark sorceress in training at the Scholomance, a school for the magically gifted. An outcast among the students, El must survive the dangerous institution, face hordes of monsters and cursed artifacts, and deal with the insufferably heroic Orion Lake. Some strong language, violence. Commercial audiobook. 2020.DB 105283 The last graduate: Scholomance series, book 2 by Naomi Novik The final year at Scholomance begins with the looming specter of matriculation--a deadly and savage ritual that leaves few students alive after. Worried about her group's chances of survival, El soon realizes that sometimes winning the game means throwing out all the rules. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2021.DB 112373 The golden enclaves: Scholomance series, book 3 by Naomi Novik "The one thing you never talk about while you're in the Scholomance is what you'll do when you get out. Not even the richest enclaver would tempt fate that way. But it's all we dream about: the hideously slim chance we'll survive to make it out the gates and improbably find ourselves with a life ahead of us, a life outside the Scholomance halls. And now the impossible dream has come true. I'm out, we're all out-and I didn't even have to turn into a monstrous dark witch to make it happen. So much for my great-grandmother's prophecy of doom and destruction. I didn't kill enclavers, I saved them. Me and Orion and our allies. Our graduation plan worked to perfection: We saved everyone and made the world safe for all wizards and brought peace and harmony to all the enclaves everywhere. Ha, only joking! Actually, it's gone all wrong. Someone else has picked up the project of destroying enclaves in my stead, and probably everyone we saved is about to get killed in the brewing enclave war. And the first thing I've got to do now, having miraculously gotten out of the Scholomance, is turn straight around and find a way back in." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 126666 Single white vampire: Argeneau series, book 3 by Lynsay Sands "SWM--"Lucern." Successful biographer of family, books recently categorized as "paranormal romance." Something of a recluse. Hates crowds, aggressive women. Doesn't like sunbathing, garlicky dinners or religious symbols. Likes old-fashioned values; spicy Mexican dishes; warm, nice-smelling neck; and plump red lips. Stronger than ten men and can vanish in the blink of an eye. Currently unaware he's seeking a woman to share eternity. SWF--"Kate C. Leever." Newest editor of Romance at Roundhouse Publishing. Perky, fun. Has recently discovered a legacy author just dying to be broken out. In fact, her career could take off from it. (The tall, dark, handsome writer just needs to be taken to several romance conventions and introduced to his fans...and stopped from acting so strange in public.) Dislikes "difficult, rude, obnoxious, pig-headed writers." Currently unaware she's met the man of her wildest dreams. OH, DEAR."-- Goodreads. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 126667 Tall, dark & hungry Argeneau series, book 4 by Lynsay Sands "Terri had flown from England to help plan her cousin's wedding, but paying for a New York hotel room was like giving blood! But she had an alternative: the new in-laws were offering lodging. Of course, the Argeneaus were a certifiably odd bunch. There was the sometimes chipper, sometimes brooding Lucern--a "vampire romance" writer. There was the wacky stage actor, Vincent. She couldn't imagine Broadway casting a more ravenous singing-and-dancing Dracula. And then there was Bastien. Of this unique cast of characters, he seemed the tallest, darkest and hungriest--and his effect on Terri was decidedly delicious. Just looking into his eyes made her want to serve up her innocence on a silver platter. And she had a feeling the love feast was about to begin."-- Goodreads. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127058 A bite to remember: Argeneau series, book 5 by Lynsay Sands "Rule #1: Never get involved with someone who won't be there for you when the sun comes up. Once bitten, twice shy, and sexy PI Jackie Morrisey wasn't going there again. Vincent Argeneau may be the hottest guy she's ever met, living or dead, but she's here to stop a killer from turning this vampire into dust, not to jump into bed with him."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127059 Bite me if you can: Argeneau series, book 6 by Lynsay Sands "One minute Leigh is walking home in the early hours of the morning, and the next a vampire is sinking his teeth into her neck. Turns out it was a rogue vampire marked for termination, but it does Leigh little good because the damage's already been done. She's become one of them. Lucian Argeneau, hunter of rogue vampires, has been alive for over two thousand years, and there's very little to excite him anymore. Food has become tasteless, sex is ordinary. Then Leigh drops into his life. Suddenly he finds himself craving coffee...and imagining the sassy brunette atop the black satin sheets on his nice big bed. It's Lucian's job now to enlighten Leigh on the inner workings of being immortal...and tutoring her is igniting a fire in him that hasn't burned in centuries. But until they stop a renegade bloodsucker from destroying the human race, passion will have to wait!"-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 127300 The accidental vampire: Argeneau series, book 7 by Lynsay Sands "Ever since an accident turned her into a knockout vamp, Elvi Black's been catching her z's in a coffin, staying out of the sun, and giving up garlic. She knows there's more to being undead than what she saw in Dracula, but she can't very well ask her mortal friends about proper biting etiquette. But when her neighbors placed a personal ad for her in the local paper, she never imagined she'd meet Victor Argeneau, a vampire who could have his pick of any woman--dead or alive..."-- From publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook.DB 75277 Double cross: the true story of the D-day spies by Ben Macintyre Author of Operation Mincemeat (DB 71406) recounts the deception the Allies used to keep secret the planned location of their 1944 invasion of France. Details the efforts of Tommy "Tar" Robertson of Britain's MI5 to turn playboys, party girls, and eccentrics--all of whom were Nazi spies--into double agents. Bestseller. 2012....