Talking Books Talk - Website at State Library of Kansas

High school can be the best time of your life, the total opposite where you can’t wit to leave, or middle of the road. No matter which it is for you, there’s no doubt that there is some sort of drama going down at some point, be it small disagreements, large throw-down arguments, or physical aggressions. Don’t forget about the social hierarchy and the cliques. There’s a reason books are so often set in school with so rich a source of inspiration.

But as much as there is drama, it’s a great time to make friends, live in the present while keeping an eye on the future, and learn about yourself in the process. We’ll help prep you for the new school year with a selection of great books all set in high school. Each one is different, with their own kinds of drama and not always the most realistic. However, the interactions between characters come from experience as well as creativity. Check out these books as the first day of school draws near.

Are you and your family running around trying to get everything prepped for the new school year? Take a break with BARD where each of these books can be downloaded with just a few taps on your mobile device or some clicks on your computer. BARD, Braille and Audio Reading Download, is a web-based download service provided by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled and Kansas Talking Books that makes accessing the books and other materials in our collection easy and available at your fingertips. To learn more, visit our website at https://kslib.info/talking or contact us at 1-800-362-3699 or KTB@ks.gov. We are happy to guide you through getting BARD set up on your smart device or using your computer. BARD lets you read what you when you want it.

DB 79573 The nightmare affair by Mindee Arnett

Being the only Nightmare at Arkwell Academy, a boarding school for magickind, sixteen-year-old Destiny "Dusty" Everhart feeds on the dreams of others. When she sees a murder in hot, bad boy Eli Booker's dream, the two search for a killer. Some violence. For senior high and older readers. 2013.

DB 82401 The fixer by Jennifer Barnes

When her grandfather develops dementia, Tess, a high school junior who runs his Montana ranch, is whisked away to Washington, D. C., by a sister she barely knows and thrown into a world of politics and power. Some violence and some strong language. For senior high and older readers. 2015.

DB 66621 I’d tell you I love you, but then I’d have to kill you by Ally Carter

Sophomore Cameron Morgan attends the Gallagher Academy--a girls' school for secret agents, where her mother is the headmistress. On a covert training mission in town, Cammie meets Josh, a cute and ordinary boy, and arranges to see him again. For junior and senior high readers. 2006.

DB 117544 True true by Don P. Hooper

"When Gil, a Black teen from Brooklyn, struggles to fit in at his primarily white Manhattan prep school, he wages a clandestine war against the racist administration, parents, and students, while working with other Black students to ensure their voices are finally heard. This is not how seventeen-year-old Gil imagined beginning his senior year--on the subway dressed in a tie and khakis headed towards Manhattan instead of his old public school in Brooklyn. Augustin Prep may only be a borough away, but the exclusive private school feels like it's a different world entirely compared to Gil's predominately Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. If it weren't for the partial scholarship, the school's robotic program and the chance for a better future, Gil wouldn't have even considered going. Then after a racist run-in with the school's golden boy on the first day ends in a fight that leaves only Gil suspended, Gil understands the truth about his new school--Augustin may pay lip service to diversity, but that isn't the same as truly accepting him and the other Black students as equal. But Gil intends to leave his mark on Augustin anyway. If the school isn't going to carve out a space for him, he will carve it out for himself. Using Sun Tzu's The Art of War as his guide, Gil wages his own clandestine war against the racist administration, parents and students, and works with the other Black students to ensure their voices are finally heard. But the more enmeshed Gil becomes in school politics, the more difficult it becomes to balance not only his life at home with his friends and family, but a possible new romance with a girl he'd move mountains for. In the end, his war could cost him everything he wants the most." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

DB 116765 The making of Yolanda la Bruja by Lorraine Avila

"Yolanda Alvarez is having a good year. She's starting to feel at home at Julia De Burgos High, her school in the Bronx. She has her best friend Victory, and maybe something with José, a senior boy she's getting to know. She's confident her initiation into her family's bruja tradition will happen soon. But then a white boy, the son of a politician, appears at Julia De Burgos High, and his vibes are off. And Yolanda's initiation begins with a series of troubling visions of the violence this boy threatens. How can Yolanda protect her community, in a world that doesn't listen? Only with the wisdom and love of her family, friends, and community--and the Brujas Diosas, her ancestors and guides." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

DB 116591 Their vicious games by Joelle Wellington

"Eighteen-year-old Adina Walker, a scholarship student at a prestigious academy, faces the consequences of a single mistake and competes in a high-stakes contest hosted by the wealthy Remington family, where she uncovers unsettling truths about the sponsors and the contest's high stakes." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

DB 113468 Imposter syndrome and other confessions of Alejandra Kim by Patricia Park

"Alejandra Kim doesn't feel like she belongs anywhere. At her wealthy Manhattan high school, her super Spanish name and super Korean face do not compute to her mostly white "woke" classmates and teachers. In her Jackson Heights neighborhood, she's not Latinx enough. Even at home, Ale feels unwelcome. And things at home have only gotten worse since Papi's body was discovered on the subway tracks. Ale wants nothing more than to escape the city for the wide-open spaces of the prestigious Wyder University. But when a microaggression at school thrusts Ale into the spotlight--and into a discussion she didn't ask for--Ale must discover what is means to carve out a space for yourself to belong." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

DB 111542 The fill-in boyfriend by Kasie West

"When Gia Montgomery's boyfriend Bradley dumps her in the parking lot of her high school prom, she decides to do the unthinkable: convince the cute guy waiting to pick up his sister to pretend to be her boyfriend for the night. Will Gia turn her fake boyfriend into a real one without exposing her lie and possibly destroying her friendships and her newfound relationship?" -- Provided by publisher. -- Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

DB 110117 Nothing more to tell by Karen M. McManus

"Brynn Gallagher uses her internship at a new true crime show to investigate the unsolved murder of her favorite teacher, uncovering secrets about her school, her teacher, and her ex-best friend in the process." -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

DB 108455 Blaine for the win by Robbie Couch

"After his boyfriend Joey breaks up with him to pursue more "serious" guys, Blaine decides to run for senior class president as Joey's successor to prove his worth. But is Blaine willing to sacrifice everything about himself to do it?" -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers. 2022.

DB 102535 The escape of light by Fred Venturini

Teenage burn survivor Wilder Tate faces the challenges of high school but in the aftermath of tragedy he discovers the capacity to forgive and empathize, learning the importance of healing from the inside out. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers. 2019.

DB 101776 This is my brain in love by I. W. Gregorio

Rising high school juniors Jocelyn Wu and Will Domenici fall in love while trying to save the Wu family restaurant, A-Plus Chinese Garden. Meanwhile, mental health issues and family prejudices threaten their budding romance. Strong language and some descriptions of sex. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers. 2020.

DB 106638 In every generation by Kendare Blake

As Frankie learns magic from her mother, Willow, a new student shows up at New Sunnydale High School with news that the annual Slayer convention has been the target of an attack. Frankie must become a slayer-witch, prevent the Hellmouth from opening again, and find out what happened to her aunt Buffy. Strong language and some violence. For senior high and older readers. 2022.

DB 112060 Highly suspicious and unfairly cute by Talia Hibbert

"Bradley Graeme is pretty much perfect. He's a star football player, manages his OCD well (enough), and comes out on top in all his classes except the ones he shares with his ex-best friend, Celine. Celine Bangura is conspiracy-theory-obsessed. Social media followers eat up her takes on everything from UFOs to holiday overconsumption--yet, she's still not cool enough for the popular kids' table. Which is why Brad abandoned her for the in-crowd years ago. (At least, that's how Celine sees it.) These days, there's nothing between them other than petty insults and academic rivalry. So when Celine signs up for a survival course in the woods, she's surprised to find Brad right beside her. Forced to work as a team for the chance to win a grand prize, these two teens must trudge through not just mud and dirt but their messy past. And as this adventure brings them closer together, they begin to remember the good bits of their history. But has too much time passed or just enough to spark a whole new kind of relationship?" -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

<DB 117037 Destination anywhere by Sara Barnard

"Peyton King has always wanted to belong. She seizes the opportunity to start over at a new school and finally finds real connections with the friends she's always dreamed of and even an actual boyfriend! But after flying high in her newfound happiness, Peyton comes crashing down when reality sets in and the ones she cares about let her down. Peyton's friends can't fix her and she can't help them if they won't let her. If she wants to find real, lasting happiness, Peyton will have to search somewhere else. With nothing but her sketchpad and a backpack, she buys a one-way ticket and gets on a plane. How far will she go to change her story?" -- Provided by publisher. -- Unrated. Commercial audiobook. For senior high and older readers.

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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....

YA Reads: All about that high school drama