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Archive By Author - Alison Reeger Cook


‘The Program’ provocative but mostly mundane

In Suzanne Young's latest novel, "The Program," an inexplicable epidemic is causing teenagers around the world to commit suicide at a frightening rate. No one can seem to pinpoint what is causing this fatal behavior, but the government has implemented the Program to combat it.

May 05, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Actress’ memoir shines light on an ‘unbearable’ burden

Arguably, one of the most coveted professions is being a performer or public figure in show business. Nearly every little girl wants to grow up to be an actress, a dancer, a model or a singer. Many boys aspire to be action stars in movies and on television.

April 21, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: Goodreads buyout, dream or nightmare?

The big news in the literary world this week has been Amazon's acquisition of Goodreads, the world's largest book sharing and recommendations website.

April 07, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: ‘Southern Cross’ tells story with bite, boldness

Bill Cheng's debut novel "Southern Cross the Dog" is a gritty, dark odyssey that explores the lives of three people, and how each is caught between the harsh, tragic living world and the enigmatic, enticing supernatural world.

March 24, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: ‘Exiled Heir’ puts new ‘skin,’ spin on familiar fantasy

Atlanta author Jonathan French says "Books are akin to blades. They take a great deal of heat, pressure and time to produce."

March 10, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: ‘Ladies Scrapbooking Society’ a collage of charm, creativity

In the follow-up to her novel "Friendship Bread," Darien Gee invites readers back to Avalon, Ill., in "The Avalon Ladies Scrapbooking Society."

February 24, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: How much real history is vital to historical fiction?

I received a rather interesting message in response to my last book review for "The Painted Girls" by Cathy Marie Buchanan. The sender sent me a blog post about forgeries of famous artworks at various art institutes. This particular post was about how Edgar Degas may not have been the true artist behind "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen," the statue that was modeled after the main heroine in "The Painted Girls."

February 10, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: ‘Painted Girls’ breathes life, literary magic into Degas' art

Much of the magic behind great works of art comes from the mystery of what inspired the artist to create such a piece. When you walk through an art museum, you may wonder what is the story behind each painstakingly-painted image, what drove someone to spend so many hours laboring to produce something unique and enigmatic.

January 27, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: Local author’s book thought-provoking despite its flaws

I've realized after reading the novel for this week's book review that it may not be fair for me to critique self-published books. While I do get many requests from local writers to review their books, and I always want to support the ambitions of aspiring authors, let's face the not-so-nice truth: People tend to self-publish when faced with continuous rejection from literary agents and traditional publishing houses, and they prefer to simply pay the ...

January 13, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: Famous authors’ new year resolutions to inspire book lovers

As 2013 approaches, many people are making their lists of resolutions for the new year. While some people may think setting New Year's resolutions is a trivial practice, it's important to plan goals for yourself, to have a passionate purpose and to have a reason to look forward to each day. Gretchen Rubin, best-selling author of "The Happiness Project," spent a whole year following the goal of just becoming a happier individual. This may sound ...

December 30, 2012 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: Meet the true Santa in this literary holiday treat

There have been many versions of Santa Claus's origin story told throughout time, from the earliest folklore of Father Christmas to modern television holiday specials and animated films.

December 16, 2012 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: “The Universe of Fair" is a fun romp for young readers

Have you considered buying your child a fun book to read as a holiday gift this year, but you're not sure what would be a good pick?

December 02, 2012 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: A weekend of literary wisdom in Dahlonega

This past weekend, I had the pleasure to attend Dahlonega's ninth annual Literary Festival, which was held at the North Georgia College & State University and the Chamber of Commerce.

November 18, 2012 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: Imagination has a life of its own in ‘Memoirs’

Do you remember who your imaginary friend was when you were a child? Most of us had one, even if we don't recall what kind of creature or person it may have been, or for how long we had one.

November 04, 2012 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


Off the Shelves: Harrowing haunts will entertain readers of ‘Your House’

As my favorite holiday, Halloween, is swiftly approaching, I know I'm not the only one getting in the mood for spooky stories and fright-fest films.

October 21, 2012 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


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Articles By Author - Alison Reeger Cook


Off the Shelves: 'Cursed Pirate Girl' rare literary treasure for a graphic novel

I rarely re-read books once I'm finished with them. But every now and then, I come across a published work that not only do I want to revisit, but I feel as if I have to in order to pick up on things I am positive I missed the first read through. One of those books is Volume One of the graphic novel series, "Cursed Pirate Girl." It is written and illustrated by Jeremy Bastian, ...

May 19, 2013 | Alison Reeger Cook | Columnists


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