The Fresno County Library's Bookshelf column shares suggestions for books, music and other items and provides information about library programs.

New arrivals

--"The Perfect Hope: Book Three of the Inn BoonsBoro Trilogy" by Nora Roberts: Romance at the BoonsBoro Bed and Breakfast owned by the Montgomery brothers: Beckette, Owen and Ryder. Following the lead of his brothers, construction manager Owen finally gets his chance at true love.

--"No Regrets, No Remorse: A Sydney Simone Mystery" by R. F. Sharp: The author won the first Poisoned Pen Press "Discover Mystery Contest" for this book. As the owner of HumanPestControl.com, the book's main character, Sydney Simone, often uses unusual methods to meet her clients' needs. Her current case involves insurance fraud, kidnapping and murder for hire.

--"Full of Heart: My Story of Survival, Strength and Spirit" by J. R. Martinez: You've seen him on "All My Children" and "Dancing With the Stars." Now read his inspiring story sharing how he not only coped, but thrived, in the face of adversity.

Holiday cooking

--"Christmas Table: Make Your Holidays Extra Special with This Abundant Collection of Delicious Seasonal Recipes, Creative Tips and Sweet Memories" (Gooseberry Patch Book Series): With more than 225 holiday recipes, creative tips for sharing culinary gifts from the kitchen and creating decorative touches for the home, this new book will become a perennial favorite.

-- "Sandra Lee Bake Sale Cookbook" by Sandra Lee: A favorite Food Network star offers 120 recipes and tips for tasty treats. These cakes, cupcakes, pies and tarts will definitely tempt your holiday taste buds. Make a special treat for home and your favorite fundraiser.

-- "The Neelys' Celebration Cookbook: Down Home Meals for Every Occasion" by Pat and Gina Neely: Tennessee restaurateurs and Food Network celebrities Pat and Gina Neely believe that life and food are to be celebrated. Their recipes and suggestions for entertaining all year long will help you celebrate your family, friends and food. Let the good times roll!

-- "Holiday Dinners with Bradley Ogden: 150 Festive Recipes for Bringing Family and Friends Together" by Bradley Ogden: Award-winning chef Bradley Ogden's first cookbook in more than a decade updates cherished recipes for winter holidays in an easy-to-use guide for making memorable meals. He provides preparation schedules, sample menus and instructive sidebars to take the guesswork out of holiday preparation.

Upcoming events

-- Winter Wonderland Extravaganza: Celebrate the season with your friends and family at our holiday extravaganza. Come join the fun with activities, prizes, crafts and movies for children. Bring your camera to capture the visit from Santa. Don't miss this newest Fowler holiday tradition. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Fowler Branch Library. Details: 600-9281.

-- Come Decorate Your Own Gingerbread House: A favorite library tradition is back by popular demand. Kids and parents will love this great family activity. Instructions and materials are provided. Space is limited to 25 participants and pre-registration is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult. From 2-3 p.m. Monday at the Caruthers Library. From 3-4 p.m. and 5-6 p.m. Monday at the Politi Library. From 10:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Gillis Library. From 1-2 p.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m. Thursday at the Cedar Clinton Library. From 3-4 p.m. and 4-5 p.m. Thursday at the San Joaquin Library. From 5-6 p.m. Thursday at the Orange Cove Library. From 10-11 a.m. and 2-3 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Clovis Library. From 11 a.m.-noon. Dec. 15 at the Tranquillity Library. From 1-2 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Central Library. From 1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Woodward Park Library. Details: 600-6227.

Library events are free, unless otherwise specified. Visit fresnolibrary.org or call (559) 600-6227 for additional event details.