A blog to read by

There's a new blog in town -- one that has print repercussions.

Some literary friends have started a blog called "Read It and Reap" focusing on books, how they relate to life, how people talk about them and why people should (or perhaps shouldn't) read them. These are people involved in the University Press at Southeast Missouri State University, which options and publishes books by authors from here and far.

They've been responsible for a book on Muhammad Ali by a journalist who covered boxing in its heyday, the Morley Swingle books and dozens of others. They also read and write reviews of books from presses across the country.

Their reviews will soon supplement the arts and entertainment coverage here in SE Live. With music, art and everything else, literature and the written talent in this area often goes unnoticed or covered with a paltry but well-meaning mention here or there. The book brigade that will blog online will also contribute their well-placed opinions and evaluations to SE Live.

The blogs are already adding to web content on semissourian.com.

In the first entry, Susan Swartout tackles why reading is so important; she maintains an amusing tone, not at all preachy. An upcoming "Read It and Reap" will talk about the Kindle and other digital reading devices.

Check it out. Read it. Reap.

If you're more of a doer than a reader, Centenary United Methodist Church will have a French-style market Nov. 7. This craft fair will serve as a warm up for the extravaganzas later in November.

Le Bon Marche, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 7 will have crafts, books, fresh flowers, hot croissants au chocolat and crepes filled with preserves and cheeses among other fare. It's a fundraiser for Centenary, and there still is booth space available if you've got a craft or talent you'd like to show off.

Don't forget: If you'd like to show off your Halloween costume, find the Southeast Missourian photographer out and about Saturday night and then check the website Sunday afternoon to see yourself, your friends and the fabulous ensembles your community members came up with.