End the year with a relaxing read

What do most people think of when they hear the word "library"? Reading, of course! 2014 was the year to "Reconnect with Reading 365" at the Cuyahoga County Public Library. We have been so happy to share with you our favorites, as well as those of your neighbors from a variety of genres over the past year in this feature. During this season of holiday hustle and bustle, we would like to invite you to relax with a good book or gift one to someone special. Here are some new releases we thought we’d share that may fast become a new favorite to give as gifts or read for yourself on a frosty winter day.

Looking for a new holiday story or winter read? Try "The Mistletoe Promise" from the always inspirational Richard Paul Evans, author of "The Christmas Box." Anne Perry has a released her annual yuletide tale, "A New York Christmas," set during the holidays of 1904 and including her well-known mix of love, betrayal and murder. Bill Roorbach’s "The Remedy for Love" features two characters brought together by a massive snowstorm in Maine. Curl up with some cocoa to see what happens next in this survival story filled with witty dialogue, romance and suspense.

A little humor to help you relax? "Yes Please"! This title by Amy Poehler will have you laughing out loud, as the comedienne and Saturday Night Live alumna regales readers with stories of her childhood, breaking into show business and humorous observations as a working mom. Try the audiobook if you quickly tire of the holiday tunes on the radio. It is read by the author herself and, as expected, her comic timing couldn’t be better!

Does dreaming of warmer days bring you relaxation? "Glory Days in Tribe Town: The Cleveland Indians and Jacobs Field 1994-1997" by Terry Pluto and Tom Hamilton is the perfect read for the baseball fan counting down the days until spring training. This book provides behind-the-scenes action from those who witnessed this golden age of baseball first hand– the players and sportscasters. It's the perfect combo for the book lover and baseball lover on your list in the off season.

What better way to foster the love for and enjoyment of books in the next generation than to give your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews books as special gifts all year long, but especially during the holiday season. If you are looking for youth suggestions, you are in luck! Our annual Great Books for Kids is back! This year there is a truly wonderful sampling of books that you can borrow from the library or purchase as gifts for the children in your life! The recommendations are broken down by age category, as well materials the family might enjoy together including toys! The website is fun, interactive and includes a wish list component to keep track of favorites. Stop in the library or visit ccplgreatbooksforkids.org for more information.

Thank you for allowing us to share our suggestions with you throughout this past year! Please visit the Bay Village Branch, 502 Cahoon Road, where the staff would be very happy to give you personal reading recommendations in 2015. We hope to see you soon!