Recs and ReadsBy Anne McKay GarrisNo one, but no one on Clearwater Beach should be bored while we have our lovely little Beach Library at hand. Even if you are not computer literate, don't care for videos, aren't even interested in books on tape, there is still a world of adventure waiting for you among the books. For all the Jane Austen fans, a new delight is a book written by Colleen McCullough (of "Thorn Birds" fame), called "The Independence of Miss Mary Bennet." The book tells the story of Mary Bennet, the awkward and be speckled youngest sister of Liz and Jane Bennet, heroines of Pride And Prejudice The story begins years after the dramatic proposal of Mr. Darcy to Liz. In the ensuing years, Mary Bennet's brother-in-law has arranged for her to live with her mother and make sure she doesn't embarrass anyone. At the beginning of the book, Mrs. Bennet dies and Mary, determined to be free of the control of her brothers-in-law, sets out on an adventure that eventually involves every member of the family, giving us glimpses of the fate of all the other family members. Reading this romp could very well send you back to re-read Jane Austen and, better yet, gain your interest in the books of Colleen McCoullough, who has her own style, which is a match for Miss Austen. My favorite is The Ladies of Missalonghi. Don't hesitate to ask for any book you are wanting to read because our Clearwater Library System is hooked up with all of Pinellas County and, if the book is in the county, they can get it for you. Meanwhile, across the hall, at the Recreation Center, you'll find a variety of more active entertainment, such as exercise classes, dance classes, and "hooping." Or, now that the weather is getting seriously warm, the pool is glistening in the sun, just waiting for you and your friends and family to have a good splash together.
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