This month, Above the Treeline began adding Book Sense Bestseller data to its new interface. Bookstores using Treeline software to optimize their inventory selections can now scan weekly Book Sense Bestseller Lists and find which of those titles they have in stock and which they may need to order, among other features.

This November will be a big month for Tulsa's Steve's Sundry, Books & Magazines and for Steve himself. The bookstore will turn 60 and its co-owner and founder, Steve Stephenson, will celebrate his 90th birthday. "We'll have an all-day affair," said Stephenson's daughter-in-law and store co-owner, Joanie Stephenson. "A live remote radio show will broadcast from the store and local authors will read.

Knock Knock, a five-year-old gift and stationery company, has created its own genre of witty, whimsical, and fun products. Founded and headed by Jen Bilik, Knock Knock, a division of Who's There, has earned kudos and an enthusiastic base of retailers who are charmed by the contemporary wit in vintage design. Launched in 2002, with 13 products, Knock Knock now offers several hundred items, including a new line of books.

Just in time for the World Series... Book Sense presents the "Play Ball" Bestseller List, based on sales at independent bookstores with Book Sense nationwide for the eight-week period ending October 23, 2007.

One night isn't going to be enough to celebrate the silver anniversary of South Florida's Books & Books, which has hosted thousands of locally and nationally known authors over its two and a half decades. So Books & Books' website suggests customers and friends "Save the Month" for the flood of anniversary celebrations throughout October.

For the eight-week period ending October 7, 2007, and based on sales in independent bookstores with Book Sense nationwide.

Charles Holdefer

Truth is stranger than fiction, it's sometimes said. But fiction often gives us our best chance to experience and comprehend an increasingly strange reality.

Here is the full listing of November Book Sense Picks, with booksellers' comments, as well as a preview of the month's Notables. Independent booksellers in the Book Sense program will be receiving their November Picks fliers in the October Red Box.

The silver anniversary celebration of downtown Norfolk, Virginia's Prince Books may be understated, but the community it has served since 1982 has been enthusiastically showing its support.