Archive | November, 2019

Like the New Show? Check out these Graphic Novel Inspirations: Stumptown, The Boys, and Watchmen

27 Nov

Several new TV and Streaming shows this year are based on graphic novels.  If you are enjoying the TV shows then check out the graphic novels that inspired them.  All three are intended for adult audiences.

Stumptown


I’m really enjoying Stumptown, a TV series which centers on, Dex, an Army Veteran that decides to become a PI.  I checked it out since I was a fan of Cobie Smulders on How I Met Your Mother, but was hooked by the likeable, but flawed characters.  She lives with her brother with Down syndrome (excellently acted by Cole Sibus) and her best friend is an ex-con.  Fans of the graphic novel seem happy with the adaptation, especially that the series kept Dex’s bisexuality, which was explored in a recent episode.  The first volume of the graphic novel deals with the kidnapping of Sue-Lynne’s granddaughter, which also begins the TV series.  The second volume deals with a case of a missing guitar.  They are written by Greg Rucka and illustrated by Matthew Southworth.

The Boys
Boys
What if we lived in a world of super humans; who would police the vigilantes?  Garth Ennis’s The Boys answers that question.  A secret group makes sure that super heroes don’t cross the line with their behavior.  Although the violence level is a bit high for me, my husband is a fan of the new streaming series and I’ve watched a few episodes with him.  You can check out the first Ominbus edition from Hoboken Public Library or Hoboken residents can check out digital issues from Hoopla.  You can also read a previous review of the series on our blog.

Watchmen
Watchmen
If you like The Boys than you should also check out the graphic novel series The Watchmen by Alan Moore, considered a groundbreaking classic, the series looks at how the presence of superheroes would change history.  Like The Boys, the superheroes even when using their powers for good, often have many flaws.  The series was first adapted as a movie which has now been followed up by a TV series set after the event in the film and graphic novels; I found the first TV episode a bit slow paced, but I’m curious to check out more.  It is available in several digital editions from Hoopla.

If you are a huge Comics fan then you should come to our second annual HPL Mini Comic Convention on Saturday, December 14 starting at 12 PM at the Hoboken Public Library.  You can learn to dance like a superhero, play Super Smash Bros, and learn some new cosplay techniques!  There will be crafting with our new Cricut machine, a photo booth and more.

“Do It Yourself” Face & Body Scrubs: Today at 6 PM at HPL

19 Nov

Upcycling is not only super trendy and rustic for any “Do it yourselfer” out there, it’s also very ecofriendly. With health and beauty circling back to the forefront of anyone’s lifestyle, homemade products are making a strong comeback!

I am having a Make and Take Program today (November 19) from 6 to 7:30 pm at the main branch of the Hoboken Public Library. Although it’s BYOJ (bring your own jar) encouraged, all supplies will be provided. In this program you’ll get the chance to have a hands on experience at creating your own body and face scrub to take home as well as possibly get creative and Make Your Own Recipe! You may even get the idea of creating and gifting a homemade scrub to a loved one. The possibilities of this program is that it’s a start for anyone to begin the process of caring for their own body, especially as the months get colder.

As DIYers go, the key decision in any maker project is recycling and upcycling (no waste). In that spirit, most, if not all basic ingredients you will be able to find in every kitchen. Some of the ingredients that will be used (but not limited to) are coffee, salt, oatmeal, sugar, tea, cooking oils, some spices, essential oils, fresh produce, and any recycled jar from an old candle or sauce!

We will be creating scrubs that range from using just on your face to your whole body. Thick scrubs, creamy scrubs, one time use scrubs and scrubs that can last a whole 2 months!

The benefits of Homemade Scrubs is you get to personalize it to your own body and its needs. If you need something for moisturizing, anti – inflammatory, more antioxidants and/or vitamins for skin health, then you can put together specifically mixed ingredients for exactly that. Need more relaxation and soothing properties, add some extra oils or fresh florals or produce. It’s always great knowing what you are putting on your body. Not only do scrubs promote calmer sleep, healthier looking and feeling skin, it’s also great for your mental healing when your body is cared for.

For more recipes or inspiration on how to get started on the art of making body scrubs check some of these books out:

Plant-Powered Beauty: The Essential Guide to Using Natural Ingredients for Health, Wellness, and Personal Skincare (With 50-plus Recipes) by Amy Galper

100 Organic Skin Care Recipes: Make Your Own Fresh and Fabulous Organic Beauty Products by Jessica Ress

DIY Beauty: Easy, All-Natural Recipes Based on Your Favorites from Lush, Kiehl’s, Burt’s Bees, Bumble and Bumble, Laura Mercier, and more! by Ina De Clercq

Just the Essentials: How Essential Oils can Heal Your Skin, Improve Your Health, and Detox Your Life by Adina Grigore

Written by:
Sherissa Salas
Programming Assistant

Always check with your doctor or dermatologist before using a new product and try on a small patch of skin before using it more widely.

Adult Programs at the Hoboken Public Library are first come gets a spot if space is limited; please arrive early.

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