For Patch Picks this week, we're focusing on books for national Read Across America Day. We talked with librarians, asked for five titles and came up with a list for kids and adults. Feel free to add your own suggestions as well in comments. For Young Adults: The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins: In this book we meet Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year-old girl who lives in a post-apocalyptic world and must fight for her life. This is the first book in the Hunger Games series and is recommended for young adult readers with an interest in sci-fi. All the Lovely Bad Ones, by Mary Downing Hahn: A little…

This week's Patch Picks: 5 Local Boutiques 1. Jeans & A Cute Top Shop, 204 W Wesley St, Wheaton Half of the merchandise is denim, the other half: tops. With the slogan, "It's what you're wearing tonight," Jeans & A Cute Top Shop is where some women might go during the day before a night out on the town, to find some jeans and a cute top that they've never publicly debuted. The shop is currently having its "Great Wall of Denim Sale," at both of its locations in Wheaton and St. Charles. 2. Swap Shop Resale Boutique, 484 N Main St, Glen Ellyn With its grand opening Saturday, Feb. 26, Swap Shop …

Glen Oak Restaurant Glen Oak Restaurant has a number of specials starting Friday night and running through Monday. So if you cant get out on Monday, just celebrate a little early. Specials include Salmon Fresca for $12.95, Shrimp and Steak for $14.95 and a special Valentine's Day Lover's Stew for $8.55.  Adelle's Fine American Fare Adelle's offers a special prix-fixe menu this Valentine's Day for $125 per person, and includes the choice of salmon, beef tenderloin, braised short ribs and duck breast. Valentine's Day Dance at Arrowhead You've been to the fancy-schmancy restaurants with 5-course…