With the advent of autumn, it’s worth noting the arrival of Shaun Tan’s new picture book, Rules of Summer. In his typical, almost surreal and color-filled paintings, he depicts the relationship of two brothers and the consequences of not following the rules laid down by the older one, of course. “Never leave the back door open at night,” for example, yields a room filled with fantastical flora and fauna, while eating “…the last olive” produces an incredible result; just look for yourself. Also try his books The Arrival and Lost and Found.

Back Channel: A Novel by Stephen Carter of The Emperor of Ocean Park fame, sets us up for October, that long ago October of 1962, also known as the Cuban Missile Crisis. Margo Jensen, a well-educated, well-brought up college student at Cornell, is recruited by the Russians, with the complicity of the National Security Service, to participate in behind-the-scenes negotiations between Kennedy and Khrushchev.

Finally, I highly recommend Jo Nesbo’s police procedurals involving Detective Inspector Harry Hole. Set in Oslo, some during the dreadfully dark and dreary winters, the stories illuminate Hole’s battle with alcoholism as he confronts the down and dirty of Norwegian society. Listening during commuter times certainly makes the drive more interesting, and the bonus of hearing a variety of accents and languages makes each character come to life.

Remember, you can order these books and CDs through InterLibrary Loan if they’re not currently available in Andover. Just ask librarians Priscilla Poulin or Gail Fitzpatrick, and the material will be in your hands before you turn the next page. Happy reading!