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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
What We Talk About When We Talk About War
Noah Richler
Goose Lane Editions
500 Beverbrook Court, Suite 330
Fredericton, NB, Canada, E3B 5X4
9780864926227, $24.95, www.gooselane.com
War was once a distant memory for this generation, but it now seems to be a persistent state.
"What We Talk About When We Talk About War" discusses the far reaching impacts of war.
Author Noah Richler writes from a Canadian perspective, focusing on their support of America's
conflict in Afghanistan. Concerned that Canada is losing its role as a nation that only went to war
to force peace, Richler writes of the challenges Canada will face with that identity and what sits
in her future. "What We Talk About When We Talk About War" is much recommended read for
those who want to understand the impact of war on the home front, with overtones that can apply
to any modern industrialized nation.
American Copia
Javier O. Huerta
Arte Publico Press
University of Houston
4902 Gulf Fwy, Bldg 19, Rm 100
Houston, TX 77204-2004
9781558857483, $14.95, www.artepublicopress.com
A second chance is all too often taken for granted. "American Copia: An Immigrant Epic"
discusses the struggles of the immigrant in today's society. Author Javier O. Huerta presents his
own journey to citizen, offering a perspective of society of a people looking up, and the struggles
that come with immigrant culture. "American Copia" is a fine assortment of essays, poetry, and
much more, offering a clear view of a world few truly understand.
The Caregiving Wife's Handbook
Diana B. Denholm
Hunter House Publishers
PO Box 2914
Alameda, CA 94501-2914
9780897936057, $14.95, www.hunterhouse.com
Serious illness may be taxing for both the sufferer and the caretaker. "The Caregiving Wife's
Handbook: Caring for Your Seriously Ill Husband, Caring for Yourself" is an advisory guide for
readers to help them through the trying years when they may have a terribly ill spouse. Aimed at
women struggling through these tough times, she provides practical caretaking advice, as well as
advice for keeping the personal self together for much time to come. "The Caregiving Wife's
Handbook" is a strong pick for self-help and health collections focusing on caretaking.
Love from Grandma
Becky L. Amble
Guideposts
16 East 34th Street, New York, NY 10016
9780824945206, $12.99, www.guideposts.org
The Wisdom of a Grandmother is wisdom from another time. "Love from Grandma: Words of
Wisdom and Hope from Grandmothers Around the World" is a collection of familial inspiration.
Becky L. Amble brings the reader wisdom from many grandmothers, aimed at their
granddaughters about the things that never truly change in our lives, no matter the era. "Love
from Grandma" is an inspirational pick and reading very much worth considering for
motivational collections.
Looking Blackward
Arthur Black
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219
Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550175905, $24.95, www.harbourpublishing.com
Some people just end up attracting bizarre events in their lives. "Looking Blackward" is a
collection of short fiction and memoir from Arthur Black as he presents events off the beaten
path both true and fictional as he presents slices of life of people just trying to get by in their lives
and the obstacles in their way. "Looking Blackward" is a strong pick for general fiction
collections, highly recommended.
Imagine: How Creativity Works
Jonah Lehrer
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
222 Berkeley St., Boston MA 02116
9780547386072, $26.00, www.hmhbooks.com
Imagine: How Creativity Works goes beyond scientific studies to consider creativity as it's
experienced in the real world. It uses Bob Dylan's writing methods, the drug habits of poets, the
inspiration of an autistic surfer who invented a new surfing move, and much more to consider the
sources of inspiration and genius, and provides a fine analysis of thought processes with an eye to
showing how these can be used more efficiently by everyone. The result is a lively survey of the
sources of inspiration in us all, with keys to unlocking creative potential through exercises and
adjustments.
Authentic Hope
Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer
Orbis Books
Price Bldg, Box 302
Maryknoll, NY 10545
9781570759574, $22.00, www.orbisbooks.com
AUTHENTIC HOPE: IT'S THE END OF THE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT, BUT SOFT
LANDINGS ARE POSSIBLE provides a fine survey that considers the value and possibilities of
hope in a world facing hunger, poverty, and despair. It offers keys to vanquishing greed and
considers everything from alternative approaches to health systems to dangerous political
decisions caused by mis-reading history and unmet needs in consumer-driven social structures.
Any collection strong in politics, social issues, or personal enlightenment will find this a
powerful pick!
The Reference Shelf
The Lincoln Library Of Essential Information, fourth edition
Timothy L. Gall & Susan Bevan Gall, editors
Lincoln Library Press
812 Huron Road East, Suite 401
Cleveland, OH 44115-1172
9780912168227, $249.00, www.thelincolnlibrary.com
Now in an updated and expanded fourth edition, "The Lincoln Library Of Essential Information"
is a single volume, 2112-page compendium of information enhanced with the inclusion of 1251
illustrations, 167 tables, and a two year online access to the Lincoln Library information
database. Accessibly organized into major sections for Education, Language & Logic; Literature;
Arts, Entertainment & Sports; History; Government; Physical Sciences; Biological Sciences;
Social Sciences; Architecture, Engineering, Business & Law, "The Lincoln Library Of Essential
Information" is further enhanced with the inclusion of a comprehensive index. It's interesting to
note that the name comes as an homage to Abraham Lincoln with respect to the values of
self-education. A core reference work that is strongly recommended for school, community, and
academic library collections, "The Lincoln Library Of Essential Information" will also prove
invaluable as a supplement for home schooling curriculum development, as well as a self-study
and educational reference work for non-specialist general readers seeking to expand their minds
and knowledge base.
The Environmental Studies Shelf
Climate Wars
Harald Welzer
Polity
c/o Blackwell Publishing
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
www.blackwellpublishing.com
9780745651453, $25.00, www.amazon.com
While accepted by a dominant majority of the scientific community, the very concept of
man-made climate change has been (and continues to be) anathema to whole segments of the
general population. Translated into politics, this public disbelief in climate change has stalled
governmental measures to address the impending disasters related to changes in climate brought
about by human industrial, agricultural, and technological activities. But those changes are here
and will only be exacerbated in the coming decades resulting in conflicts and struggles over
potable water and other natural but dwindling resources. Those conflicts already include
incidents of genocide (ethnic cleansing), civil wars in Third World countries, dramatic refugee
migrations, social/economic collapses, and increasingly radical political movements world wide.
That is the focus of Harald Welzer's "Climate Wars", a 288-page analytical and predictive study
and project on the impact climate change will have on human societies. Of special note are
Harald Welzer's two chapters on 'What Can and Cannot Be Done'. Translated into English by
Patrick Camiller, "Climate Wars" should be considered mandatory reading for anyone with
concerns over the impact of climate change upon their lives, their families, their communities,
their country.
Last Call at the Oasis
Karl Weber, editor
Public Affairs Books
250 West 57th Street, #1321
New York, NY 10107
9781586489786, $15.99, www.publicaffairsbooks.com
The world's population's demands for potable water may overpower its supply. "Last Call at the
Oasis: The Global Water Crisis and Where We Go From Here" discusses the growing problem
that may be water scarcity and how water access may become a very much vital issue in coming
years. Karl Weber edits a compilation of many thinkers, scientists, environmentalists, politicians,
and more as they offer insight on this growing crisis and how water scarcity will become a very
real threat. With concern mixed in with optimism for a better solution, "Last Call at the Oasis" is
a strong pick for environmental issues and studies collection and for readers who want to
understand the importance of water in coming years.
World Environmental History
William H. McNeill and collaborators
Berkshire Publishing Group
120-122 Castle Street
Great Barrington, MA 01230-1506
9781933782966, $29.95, www.berkshirepublishing.com
Man's domain over the world is unrivaled, so the interactions of man with the environment
cannot be ignored. "World Environmental History" is a collaboration from many thinkers and
writers, covering the impact that humanity has had with the environment all throughout history,
from ancient times to the industrial revolution to the modern era. They also touch on the impact
that natural disasters have also wreaked havoc on the world and has changed the world's climate
and environment. "World Environmental History" is a strong addition to any world geological
history or environmental studies collection, highly recommended.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Monkey Wrench
Terri Thayer
Midnight Ink
2143 Wooddale Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125-2989
9780738731261, $14.95, www.midnightinkbooks.com
Saving the shop is difficult enough already, but dealing with a murder just makes everything
harder. "Monkey Wrench" is a novel from Terri Thayer as she presents a story of Dewey
Pellicano's quilt shop which seems to be struggling in its day to day operations. But when people
start to die and Dewey's Twittering tactic places blame on her. A twirling story of social media
and quilting, "Monkey Wrench" is a strong pick for mystery novel collections, highly
recommended.
Mumbai Noir
Altaf Tyrewala, editor
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 10009
9781617750274, $15.95, www.akashicbooks.com
As India's cities grow, so too does the opportunity for ill-gotten gain. "Mumbai Noir" takes the
growing love for the Noir genre and sets it in the growing city of Mumbai, facing its own
growing criminal underground populated by those who would exploit others for their own
financial gain. With a collection of rising stars in the international fiction world, "Mumbai Noir"
is a must for fans of the genre and world fiction in general, proving to be an awesome blend and
twist in an intriguing new way.
The Kurchatov Penetration
Timothy S. Jacobson
Visjonaer Press
N1997 Hickory Lane
La Crosse, WI 54601
9780984959808, $14.95, www.visjonaerpress.com
The essence of destruction lies in plutonium. "The Kurchatov Penetration" is a fast paced thriller
novel as some plutonium is lost in Iran's rush for a nuclear weapon. As Russia, America, and Iran
all rush against time to claim some loose plutonium, much intrigue surrounding a naive hacker
and the powers that be clash in a hard to put down read for those who enjoy international
thrillers. "The Kurchatov Penetration" is worth considering for fans of the genre,
recommended.
At Tildy's Thrift
Eulie Rier Cienfuegos
West Bow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000
Nashville, TN 37214
9781449724771, $11.99, www.westbowpress.com
Ghost stories don't seem to be a deterrent to customers. "At Tildy's Thrift" is a novel following a
store and its brushes with the supernatural, as those who enjoy the store try to find the truth
behind what is haunting the store in its darkest depths. "At Tildy's Thrift" is a choice novel for
fans of mystery with a touch of horror.
Cooking the Books
Bonnie S. Calhoun
Abingdon Press
PO Box 801
Nashville, TN 37202
9781426733888, $14.99, www.abingdon.org
Losing a mother is one thing, losing a mother and gaining her baggage is something else.
"Cooking the Books" follows Sloane Templeton as she inherits her mother's book store and all of
its issues. But it isn't all just offbeat individuals, as she soon finds that she may be in someone's
sights with malicious intent, calling on her skills as a cyber forensics expert to find out what's
going before it's too late. With a touch of a Christian message, "Cooking the Books" is a fun read
of suspense.
Daiquiri Dock Murder
Dorothy Francis
Gale Cengage Learning
27500 Drake Road
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
9781432825744, $25.95, www.cengage.com
When a friend turns up dead with no real leads, it becomes easy to suspect everyone and anyone.
"Daiquiri Dock Murder" is a novel set in the marinas of Key West. Rafa Blue finds her old friend
Diego dead when she checks on her boat after a vicious hurricane. As the investigation begins to
suspect her and her boyfriend, she has incentive to find the truth before it's too late! "Daiquiri
Dock Murder" is a fast-paced, riveting mystery.
Life Without Parole
Clare O'Donohue
Plume
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson St., New York NY 10014
9780452297821, $15.00, www.penguin.com
Life Without Parole provides a satisfying Kate Conway mystery and presents Kate juggling two
new reality shows and a murder investigation simultaneously. Kate's in over her head with the
shows and an increasingly puzzling murder investigation that has implicated her husband's
girlfriend as a suspect. The world of TV permeates the novel and adds rich insights into reality
shows for mystery readers who will appreciate following Kate's investigations. Any mystery
library - especially those who have seen excitement over the prior MISSING PERSONS - will
find this a winner.
Sacre Bleu
Christopher Moore
William Morrow
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022-5299
www.williammorrow.com
9780061779749, $26.99, www.harpercollins.com
SACRE BLEU: A COMEDY D'ART offers a fun probe into the 1890 suicide of Vincent van
Gogh and the unanswered questions he leaves behind - including his fear of a stalker, a certain
shade of blue, and more. Vincent's friends confront these questions and more - and vow to learn
the truth about his untimely death - a journey which brings them into the art world, into a world
of intrigue and mystery, and into a world of artists affected by the color blue. With Christopher
Moore's usual penchant for tongue-in-cheek humor coloring the investigation, SACRE BLUE
offers up more complexity and fun inspection than most of his prior novels, and is a pick for any
fiction collection.
The Fiction Shelf
The Palm House
Tarek Eltayeb
American University in Cairo Press
420 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10018-2729
www.aucpress.com
9789774164828, $24.95, www.amazon.com
One of the signal hallmarks of a well crafted novel is its ability to draw the reader out of his or
her mundane world and into the storybook universe and into the lives of the fictional characters
created by the author. That is clearly the case with Tarek Eltayeb's modern Arabic novel "The
Palm House". To briefly summarize the story: After coming to Vienna from Sudan to win a
better life for himself, Hamza struggles to escape from the margins of society and the stigma of
the immigrant. Following several years of hardship, his fortunes begin to change when he meets
Sandra, a young Austrian woman, who shows him the Palm House. In this famous Viennese
greenhouse, the frost of Hamza's heart begins to thaw, and he slowly opens himself to Sandra,
revealing his bitter yet beautiful past in Sudan and beyond. Deftly translated into English by
Kareem James Abu-Zeid, this American University in Cairo Press edition wonderfully showcases
Eltayeb's storytelling skills which, in addition to his original and unique imagination, also draws
upon elements of Sudanese folk traditions. Highly recommended and entertaining reading, "The
Palm House" is an ideal summer read and a popular addition to community and academic library
international contemporary fiction collections.
By the Light of the Silvery Moon
Tricia Goyer
Barbour Publishing
P.O. Box 719
Uhrichsville, OH 44683
9781616265519, $12.99, www.barbourbooks.com
Tragedy may strike at any time in our lives, and our power to stop it feels so limited. "By the
Light of the Silvery Moon" is a novel set aboard the maiden voyage of the Titanic in 1912.
Amelia, facing a new life and a reunited family in America, is also drawn by potential love on the
other side of the Atlantic. As the ship sails across the ocean, Amelia meets many on the ship,
including Quentin, a man with out much in the way of luck. As tragedy draws closer, Amelia
must make many decisions. "By the Light of the Silvery Moon" is a strong pick for historical
romance collections looking for something with a touch of faith.
Miss Lizzie's War
Rosemary Agonito
The Globe Pequot Press
246 Goose Lane, Suite 200
Guilford, CT 06437
9780762780129, $16.95, www.globepequot.com
The sympathy for the South's grievances with the North weren't felt exclusively by the South
alone. "Miss Lizzie's War: The Double Life of Southern Belle Spy Elizabeth Van Lew" is a novel
based in the reality of many double agent women who rubbed shoulders with the high social life
of the North only to send valuable information and tactics to the Confederacy. Following
Elizabeth Van Lew, a southern belle who in her own way contributes to the effort while
managing her own life and romances with those who she before only thought as the enemy.
"Miss Lizzie's War" is a strong pick for historical fiction and romance collections.
Four Days in Michigan
Philip Zazove
Gallaudet University Press
800 Florida Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002-3695
9781563685347, $15.95, http://gupress.gallaudet.edu
The barriers we often set up in life are nothing in the fact of love. "Four Days in Michigan" is a
deaf romance from Philip Zazove, as she tells the story of Sandra Horowitz, a deaf Jewish
woman in 1942 who falls for a soldier about to leave for the war and is both hearing and a Jew.
Their love come sunder fire from both of their family, as Zazove crafts a down to earth and
charming novel of romance above all else. "Four Days in Michigan" is a strong pick for any
fiction collection looking to add deafness-oriented stories to their shelves.
As One Devil to Another
Richard Platt
Tyndale House Publishers
351 Executive Drive
Carol Stream, IL 60188
9781414371665, $15.99, www.tyndale.com
Taking souls is by no means no easy task. "As One Devil to Another" is a unique work from
Richard Platt, renown scholar on literary legend C. S. Lewis. Spinning a tale of demons trying to
lure a lost soul away from Heaven into Hell, taking notes from Lewis's style and presenting a
contemporary yet timeless tale. "As One Devil to Another" is a strong pick for literary fiction
collections, not to be overlooked for fans of C.S. Lewis.
Vodnik
Bryce Moore
Tu Books
c/o Lee & Low Books
95 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
9781600608520, $18.95, www.leeandlow.com
Growing up is already hectic enough, but making deals with Death just might be too much.
"Vodnik" is a unique tale that delves into Slovakian folklore, following Tomas, a young man
who escaped a twofold attempt on his life when he was six. Ten years later he's facing everything
going after him again, wanting to bind him to a tea cup. Having to face the creatures after him
and death itself, "Vodnik" is a humorous and fast paced adventure, very much recommended
reading.
All For Now
Joseph Di Prisco
Macadam Cage
155 Sansome, Suite 550
San Francisco, CA 94104
9781596923713, $24.00, www.macadamcage.com
Death is no easy way out of life's troubles. "All For Now" is a novel of the afterlife. Author
Joseph Di Prisco tells the story of Roman Catholic Brother Stephen, as he is faced with the
challenges in the afterlife surrounding the allegations of Catholic priest misconduct and child
molestation. With an eternity ahead of him, Brother Stephen sets out to spend it getting to the
truth and trying to find some justice wherever it lies. "All for Now" is an original take and
analysis of faith and the struggles many of the faithful face among these sins committed by those
who should be above that.
My Brother, My Judge
Neal Wooten
Mirror Publishing
6434 W. Dixon St.
Milwaukee, WI 53214
9781612251196, $14.99, www.pagesofwonder.com
Justice is a very human thing...but would we really want machines taking it over? "My Brother,
My Judge" starts as a story surrounding a competition of two brothers who are determined to
prove their intellectual superiority to one another. Waging a bet on a trial, one brother writes a
deadly accurate computer trial that can call trial verdicts perfectly - and such a program spins out
of control and may redefine what justice really is. "My Brother, My Judge" is an intriguing novel
exploring the future of technology and what it can mean for the rights of people.
Whiskey Cove
Denise Frisino
Book Publishers Network
PO Box 2256, Bothell, WA 98041
www.whiskeycovebook.com
9781937454074, $17.95, www.bookpublishersnetwork.com
The ghost of prohibition lives on far past its repeal. "Whiskey Cove" is a novel set decades after the Prohibition era, as Denise Frisino crafts a story of Alexandria, a veteran of those runs between Canada and Washington state smuggling whiskey. Years later, Alex hires an unsuspecting college student to do her gardening, but her true motive is the drive to find the one piece of evidence that will clear her husband's name. "Whiskey Cove" is an original read of the impact of the law in our lives and the thrill of the search.
Lost Without You
Yahrah St. John
Kimani Romance
c/o Harlequin Books
225 Duncan Mill Road
Don Mills, Ontario, Canada, M3B 3K9
9780373862573, $6.25, www.amazon.com
The second volume in the Adams Affair trilogy by Yahrah St. John, "Lost Without You" is a
classic 'make-over' love story. As the creative genius of a fabled Georgian cosmetics dynasty,
Shane Adams is a carefree bachelor and no stranger to the art of charming a woman. That is, until
he meets Gabrielle Burton! A superbly spun tale of corporate romance, "Lost Without You" is
highly recommended as an ideal summer fun read!
The Lola Quarter
Emily St. John Mandel
Unbridled Books
2000 Wadsworth Boulevard, #195
Lakewood, CO 80214
9781609530792, $24.95, www.unbridledbooks.com
As the world collapses around you, the emergence of something in the past can prove to be both
a burden and a salvation. "The Lola Quarter" follows Gavin Sasaki as without employment or
apparent future, returns to his hometown in Florida to take up a job from his sister. He learns that
he may very well have a daughter he never knew, and the mother may be in danger.
Overwhelmed with conflicting feelings, Gavin drives himself to find out what happened with
what may be his family. "The Lola Quarter" is a fine modern novel of what family really is.
The Isle of Kheria
Robert Cabot
McPherson & Company
PO Box 1126
Kingston, NY 12401
9780929701981, $25.00, www.mcphersonco.com
When those closest to you in life leave it forever, it can be difficult to shoulder the burden. "The
Isle of Kheria" is a novel chronicling the burden of Joel Brewster, mourning the loss of his wife
and suspecting that his closest friend chose suicide by drowning. Looking for grace and
something that matters in his life, Joel goes to Kheria and finds much change in the matter. "The
Isle of Kheria" is a strong addition to general fiction collections.
The Way
Kristen Wolf
Crown
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780307717696, $25.00, www.randomhouse.com
The power of healing is something not quite understood. "The Way" follows young Anna, a
young woman of ancient Palestine, known for her tomboyish nature. Captured into a secret
sisterhood, she learns of the Way, which allows her to heal others. As her mentors seem to fade
away, she realizes the only way to preserve the knowledge is to spread it to the common people, a
task which won't come easily. An intriguing story that spins the tale of Christ in a new way, "The
Way" is a fine a much recommended pick for spiritually-driven fiction collections.
Daughter of Silence
Manuela Fingueret
Texas Tech University Press
PO Box 41037, Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
9780896727311, $19.95, www.ttupress.org
There are those who suffer silently, and their suffering too often goes unnoticed. "Daughter of
Silence" is a novel from Manuela Fingueret as she crafts a story following Rita, who cannot get
the truth about her mother's plight in the Holocaust, until she too understands it as she faces the
cruelty of 1980s Argentina and its own brushes with the horrendous nature of the Holocaust.
"Daughter of Silence" is a fine pick for historical fiction collections.
Home in Time for Dinner
Kathryn Ellis
Red Deer Press
c/o Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited
311 Washington Street
Brighton, MA 02135
9780889954779, $12.95, www.fitzhenry.ca
Kidnapping can change lives, especially when you don't know you've been kidnapped. "Home in
Time for Dinner" follows young Chris Ramsay as he faces a normal life to him, a boring
existence. Until he sees a report that resembles him exactly, leaving him questioning why he
never knew his mother, and suspicious of his father. A unique novel of familial circumstances,
"Home in Time for Dinner" is a fine read, very much recommended reading.
Fup
Jim Dodge
Heyday
Box 9145, Berkeley CA 94709
9781597141581, $9.95, www.heydaybooks.com
FUP is a fun little story first published in 1983 and reprinted for new audiences, and tells of one
Granddaddy Jake, a 99-year-old codger who likes gambling and whiskey and who lives with a
grandson with an obsession for fence-building. Fup, a mallard who likes to drink and watch TV,
enters and changes their lives in this fine fable packed with hilarious moments and fun
encounters between man and bird. A recommendation for any general lending library!
The Computer Shelf
The Universal Computer
Martin Davis
CRC Press
6000 NW Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite 300
Boca Raton, FL 33487
www.crcpress.com
9781466505193, $29.95, www.amazon.com
There is an entire generation that has grown up with the personal computer. The continuous rapid
advancements in technology mean the obsolescence of computers roughly every 4 to 5 years.
"The Universal Computer: The Road from Leibniz to Turing" by Martin Davis is a 240-page
history of the computer beginning with the mathematics of Leibniz in the 17th century and
continues through the pioneer work of successive mathematicians Boole, Frege, Cantor, Hilbert,
Godel, and finally Turing's analysis of algorithmic processes laying the foundation for a machine
that could be programmed to carry out mathematical processes. "The Universal Computer" is the
story of failures as well as successes along the road to achieving modern computers which would
forever change the world as they knew it. Of special note is Professors discussion on the
achievement of the IBM Watson on Jeopardy and its impact upon the public. Deftly written,
informed and informative work of impressive scholarship, "The Universal Computer" is a superb
history and a welcome addition to personal, community, and academic library collections.
Computer Graphics, Theory and Practice
Jonas Gomes, Luiz Velho, Mario Costa Sousa
CRC Press
c/o Taylor & Francis Group
270 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
9781568815800, $89.95, www.garlandscience.com
Getting graphics out of modern technology has quickly evolved into an artistry all its own.
"Computer Graphics: Theory and Practice" is a scholarly guide to the modern science of
computer graphics. Jonas Gomes, Luiz Velho, and Mario Costa Sousa combine their expertise in
demonstrating the knowledge needed to excel at computer graphics, including the fundamentals
of calculus and limited algebra. Teaching the ideals needed to apply mathematics to the field of
computer graphics, the technology needed, as well as chapters dealing with colors, lighting,
modeling, and much more, the trio also provide many exercises to practice the lessons learned
within the book and grant access to additional resources for readers to learn further in excelling
at computer graphics. "Computer Graphics: Theory and Practice" is a strong pick for community
and college library technology collections, highly recommended.
iPad for Seniors
Visual Steps
Independent Publishers Group
814 North Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
978059051089, $22.95, www.visualsteps.com
Technology can be overwhelming to those out of the loop. "iPad for Seniors" is a reference and
how to guide for those who aren't entirely sure how to work newer technology, such as the iPad
and other devices like it. Tips within allow readers to navigate the menus, connect to the internet,
connect with family, and enjoy the many things that the iPad is capable of. Presented in full color
and with instructions that anyone can understand, "iPad for Seniors" is a strong pick for
computers and technologies collections.
My Kindle Fire
Jim Cheshire
Que
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780789749222 $19.99 www.quepublishing.com
Illustrated with full-color screenshots from cover to cover, My Kindle Fire is a user-friendly
guide to getting the most out of one's Amazon Kindle Fire. Chapters cover how to quickly master
the basics of using a Kindle Fire (for reading, playing, watching videos, and more), marking any
eBook with highlights or bookmarks, using the Ebook management tool Calibre, organizing one's
music library, listening to custom-personalized Internet radio stations, setting up any email
account, exploring the web with Amazon's Silk browser, using Amazon Cloud to access one's
materials anywhere, and much more. My Kindle Fire is a "must-have" manual that every Kindle
Fire owner should keep on hand!
The dRuby Book
Masatoshi Seki
Pragmatic Programmers
P.O. Box 293325
Lewisville, TX 75029-3325
9781934356937, $35.00, www.pragprog.com
Ruby is a versatile language, but one must know how to work it to get the most out of it. "The
dRuby Book: Distributed and Parallel Computing with Ruby" is a guide on getting the most out
of Ruby from Japanese Ruby programmer Masatoshi Seki, as he elaborates on how to use the
Distributed Ruby library in one's programs and processes and other advanced techniques.
Translated expertly by Makoto Inoue, "The dRuby Book" is a must for any technology collection
that seeks to deal with Ruby.
Murach's MySQL
Joel Murach
Murach
4340 N. Knoll Ave., Fresno, CA 93722
9781890774684, $54.50, www.murach.com
Open source applications are a great boon for many companies, but only if you know how to use
them to the fullest. "Murach's MySQL" is a training and reference guide from Murach,
continuing their specialty in technical training in mastering computer applications. Focusing on
MySQL, the open source database system widely used, Joel Murach guides readers through how
to manage the database systems using MySQL, writing programs that get the most out of it, and
manage databases more effectively. "Murach's MySQL" is a strong addition to any computer and
technology collection, especially those focusing on programming and science, complete with
downloadable resources to improve one's learning experience.
Professional JavaScript for Web Developers, third edition
Nicholas C. Zakas
Wrox
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
www.wiley.com
9781118026694, $44.99, www.wrox.com
Professional JavaScript for Web Developers offers a tool to the latest ways to use JavaScript in
web development and packs in professional discussions for web developers already working with
Java. It analyzes the parts involved in a JavaScript implementation, considers new and emerging
APIs, explores the new core language features and how to work with data formats, and considers
how to create offline-capable web applications. Code, formula examples, and plenty of
real-world applications pack an updated third edition recommended for any computer holding
catering to professional Java programmers.
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
www.wiley.com
Chad Mureta's APP EMPIRE: MAKE MONEY, HAVE A LIFE, AND LET TECHNOLOGY
WORK FOR YOU (9781118107874, $24.95) comes from an author who made millions by
starting his own successful app business with no experience - and who provides the basics of
how you can do it, too. APP EMPIRE provides keys to designing and marketing successful apps
across platforms, showing how to gain competitive advantage over other app developers, how to
choose app ideas that are popular and desirable, and how to use marketing strategies
under-utilized by others. The result is a business and computer guide that offers new
opportunities and hope for those who are developing apps or have app ideas, but no clue on the
process of development and successful marketing. Jacob Seidelin's HTML5 GAMES:
CREATING FUN WITH HTML5, CSS3, AND WEBGL (9781119975083, $39.99) provides a
fine web developer's guide to creating new games using new open web techniques such as
Canvas, WebGL, and more. The new generation of open web techniques fills a gap between
traditional web sites and online gaming and tells how to create amazing games that can be played
both using traditional computers and new mobile devices. Game programmers receive
step-by-step basics to producing and marketing these new games in a fine pick for any computer
game library. David E.Y. Sarna and Vanessa Richie's EVERNOTE FOR DUMMIES
(9781118107386, $24.99) provides a fine, specific key to Evernote, a program that can store and
access nearly everything in one place for a computer, smartphone, tablet or web. Evernote can
retrieve all kinds of information from text and images to web pages, and this book covers the
basics of getting organized, creating one account that can access many different formats and
types of information, and how to use a scanner, camera or other devices to sync with Evernote.
It's a solid recommendation for any newcomer to the Evernote environment.
Addison Wesley
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.informit.com/aw
Mark Dexter and Louis Landry's JOOMLA! PROGRAMMING (9780132780810, $49.99)
provides a fine set of proven best practices for getting the job done right and is written by experts
who provide a basic tutorial and reference to offer step-by-step instructions for basic application
development. From understanding Joomla!'s foundations and extending its abilities using plugins
and more to building front-end and back-end components and integrating Joomla!'s new Access
Control lists into a website framework, this is a top pick for programmers looking to work with
Joomla! features, and will work for classroom study and independent study alike. Any computer
holding catering to neo-professionals needs this! Mitch Lacey's THE SCRUM FIELD GUIDE:
PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR YOUR FIRST YEAR (0321554159, $42.99) is for any collection
strong in agile software engineering practices, and provides IT professionals with an assessment
of Scrum and how it can be adapted. It comes from a seasoned Scrum practitioner who identifies
major challenges associated with Scrum adoption and offers keys to using Scrum successfully,
from setting priorities and conducting customer reviews to managing culture clashes on Scrum
teams and documenting projects. Real-world business examples from the author's own
experiences make this a winning survey!
Webbots, Spiders, and Screen Scrapers
Michael Schrenk
No Starch Press
38 Ringold Street
San Francisco, CO 94103-4403
9781593273972, $39.95, www.nostarch.com
Webbots, Spiders, and Screen Scrapers comes from a noted webbot developer who teaches
readers how to build time-saving, automated bots to mine, parse and archive online data. The
book begins with easy-to-follow instructions on how to write stealthy webbots in PHP that read
email and manage cookies, and moves from these basics to sample projects that reinforce all the
material. Learn how to build webbots that automate all kinds of processes in a fine guide from a
webbot developer who has worked with them for over 15 years. Any developer's library will find
this a winning title.
Android Phones for Dummies
Dan Gookin
For Dummies
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118169520, $24.99, www.dummies.com
Android Phones for Dummies offers color, large-size screen shots that offers a step-by-step
manual to exploring all the features of the Android phone. From getting email and sharing photos
to learning about the best apps and obtaining them from the Android Market, this is a winning
pick making all Android operations much easier. The chapter divisions assume no prior
smartphone or Droid knowledge and provide a fine assessment of all the possibilities of an
Android. Any newcomer to the smartphone environment in general and Android in particular
will find this a fine survey that moves from beginning to advanced functions.
Advanced Web Metrics with Google Analytics, third edition
Brian Clifton
Sybex
c/o Wiley-Blackwell
10475 Crosspoint Boulevard
Indianapolis, IN 46256
9781118168448, $39.99, www.sybex.com
The third updated edition of Advanced Web Metrics with Google Analytics covers the latest
edition of Google Analytics and packs in more ROI-building tips and techniques for measuring
performance, tracking social and mobile web visitors, and more. From mastering the new user
interface and tools to learning advanced techniques and using best practices gleaned from
real-world applications, this is a top recommendation for any working with Google
Analytics.
Content Strategy for the Web, second edition
Kristina Halvorson and Melissa Rach
New Riders
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780321808301, $29.99, www.newriders.com
The second updated edition of CONTENT STRATEGY FOR THE WEB provides a fine survey
for all kinds of organizations and offers a strategy-based handbook for businesses interested in
cost-saving opportunities and revenue-generating websites. From understanding the basic
principles of content strategy and how it applies to the web to making decisions about what
content to create and how to market it, this shows how to build a content strategy for business
promotion, and is a key survey appearing in an updated second edition with new chapters,
updated material, case studies, and much more. A fine 'must' for any who would understand how
to build and market web content.
O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein, Hwy N.
Sebastopol, CA 95472-2811
www.oreilly.com
Vandad Nahavandipoor's IOS5 PROGRAMMING COOKBOOK: SOLUTIONS AND
EXAMPLES FOR IPHONE, IPAD, AND IPOD TOUCH APPS (9781449311438, $49.99) packs
in 100 new recipes in an updated cookbook covering all the steps needed for writing complete
iOS applications. Hundreds of techniques are provided along with recipes that offer clear
solutions and sample code that can be translated to similar circumstances. From using different
audio and video files across the iPod library to using iCloud and detecting rotation gestures, this
includes solutions and discussions in a fine pick for any programming collection. The second
updated edition of Eric Enge, et.al.'s THE ART OF SEO: MASTERING SEARCH ENGINE
OPTIMIZATION (9781449304218, $49.99) is a recommendation for any collection strong in
web analytics and online business, and provides techniques to help plan and execute an in-depth
SEO strategy. This second edition uses recent changes in search engine behavior, from new
ranking methods to the changing role of social media, and is a fine guide from authors who are
leading SEO consultants. From using Google Suggest to monitoring and improving social media
marketing, this provides best practices, tested methods, and keys to optimizing news feeds and
more, and is a 'must' for any with more than a casual interest in search engine optimization.
Alasdair Allan's LEARNING IOS PROGRAMMING (9781449303778, $34.99) is a pick for any
interested in mobile programming and offers an introduction to iPhone, iPad and iPod touch
programming. It teaches the basics of how to use iOS programming to develop one's first
marketable iOS application, from opening Xcode to how to submit a product to the App Store
and is filled with keys to understanding the basic methodology of writing iOS applications that
use Objective-C as their foundation. This updated second edition covers iOS 5 and is a 'must' for
any aspiring developer. KINDLE FIRE; THE MISSING MANUAL by Peter Meyers
(9781449316273, $19.99) provides a fine survey covering the Kindle Fire, and provides all the
basics from getting online and watching movies and TV series to getting popular games,
references and apps using Amazon's Apps for Android, and reading Word files, Excel
spreadsheets and other documents. Black and white and color screen shots throughout
compliment easy step-by-step accounts of best Kindle practices. No Kindle owner should be
without this basic manual.
The Photography Shelf
Picturing Algeria
Pierre Bourdieu
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street, NY, NY 10023-7015
http://cup.columbia.edu
9780231148429, $27.50, www.amazon.com
From 1954 to 1962, Algeria was racked with a war of nationalism as it sought to break free of
French rule. Stationed in Algeria, Pierre Bourdieu was a soldier in the French army. During his
service he took thousands of photographs documenting the people and war-time conditions. In
doing so, Bourdieu became sympathetic to the Algerians and their cause. It was also the genesis
for his creating a new ethnographic/sociological approach to explaining French colonial
aggression and the ability of a poverty-stricken popular to oppose it. "Picturing Algeria" is a
248-page compendium that showcases 130 of Bourdieu's photographs along with key excerpts
from his writings. Enhanced with a 2001 interview with Bourdieu in which he talks directly
about his experiences, as well as his unique role in developing photography as a tool for social
inquiry, and the necessity to become involved in a troubled world, "Picturing Algeria" is a
seminal work that is strongly recommended reading and an invaluable addition to academic
library collections.
The River Shannon
Aiveen Cooper
The Collins Press
c/o DuFour Press
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781848891074, $44.95, www.collinspress.ie
Civilization grows around rivers. "The River Shannon: A Journey Down Ireland's Longest River"
discusses the River Shannon, which runs throughout the country, as Aiveen Cooper travels its
lengths and collects the stories of the river, of its history of great mythology and Vikings to its
modern culture and people who have called it home for centuries. Covered cover to cover in full
color photographs, "The River Shannon" is a must for any world culture and photography
collections, highly recommended.
Blue Highways Revisited
Edgar I. Ailor III
University of Missouri Press
2910 LeMone Boulevard
Columbia, MO 65201
9780826219695, $34.95, www.umsystem.edu/upress
The roads that crisscross America, far from the cities, are a stoic memory of the past. "Blue
Highways Revisited" is a collection of follow-up photography from Edgar I. Ailor III, who takes
the influences of the original collection of photographs capturing the serenity and unique nature
of the backroads all throughout America by William Least Heat-Moon in 1978, and presents a
modern take on the route. In thirty five years, much has changed and much has not. Presented in
full color, "Blue Highways Revisited" is an excellent analysis of backroads culture and America
in general, making an excellent pick for American history and coffee table photography book
collections.
Photography Applications for Cloud Computing
Matthew Bamberg
Cengage Learning, Inc.
200 First Stamford Place
Stamford, CT 06902
9781133788751, $34.99, www.cengage.com
Cloud computing is revolutionizing many things, and photography is among them. "Photography
Applications for Cloud Computing" discusses what the rise in cloud computing can bring to the
artform of photography, as Matthew Bamberg opens up the world to photographers who want to
get the most out of these recent evolutions in technology. From Amazon's cloud service to Pixlr,
Flickr, and countless other programs making it possible, "Photography Applications for Cloud
Computing" is a full color guide and must have for modern photography collections.
The Digital Photography Book Part 4
Scott Kelby
Peachpit Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0321773020, $24.99, www.peachpit.com
The Digital Photography Book Part 4 provides fine, step-by-step discussions on how to make
photos look like professional shots, and is a 'must' for any digital photographer. It provides single
pages covering a single concept on how to transform a photo, creating a professional approach to
turning snapshots into gallery prints. Clear explanations supported by screen shots and color
photos throughout make for a process that helps photographers build skills and understand
complex camera settings and tricks to fine-tuning photos. Very highly recommended!
New Riders
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.newriders.com
Jerod Foster's STORYTELLERS; A PHOTOGRAPHER'S GUIDE TO DEVELOPING
THEMES AND CREATING STORIES WITH PICTURES (0321803566, $44.99) provides a
unique book that focuses on visual storytelling and how to use these concepts to create stronger
images. From composition and visual themes to types of shots and how they translate to an
image, this offers a survey packed with color photos and insights of using photos to tell stories,
and is a 'must' for any photography library looking for books that go far beyond the basics of how
to operate a camera and take a decent picture. Vincent LaForet's VISUAL STORIES: BEHIND
THE LENS WITH VINCENT LAFORET (9780321793928, $54.99) provides a fine artistic
survey packed with color photo scenes accompanied by technical information on how to capture
and create visual stories through photography. Over 100 photos discuss how to blend photos with
stories, how to use light and color to create eye-popping photos that display both beauty and
emotion, and how to understand an image's impact when combined with words. It's a powerful
survey for any photography collection and creates an emphasis between word and image that
other photo surveys simply miss.
The Needlecraft Shelf
Barn Quilts
Suzi Parron
Swallow Press
c/o Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19
Athens, OH 45701
9780804011389, $29.95, www.ohioswallow.com
Quilts have become much more than simple fabrics for much of America. "Barn Quilts: and the
American Quilt Trail Movement" is a cultural analysis of quilting all throughout North America
and the impact of the movement has had since it first got moving back in 2001. With full color
photographs all throughout, "Barn Quilts" is a strong pick for those fascinated by American and
Canadian quilts, looking for inspiration for their own designs and much more, making it a choice
addition to any needlework or hobbyist collection.
Circular Knitting Workshop
Margaret Radcliffe
Storey
210 Mass MoCa Way
North Adams, MA 01247
9781603429993, $24.95, www.storey.com
CIRCULAR KNITTING WORKSHOP: ESSENTIAL TECHNIQUES TO MASTER
KNITTING IN THE ROUND provides a technique-oriented guide for using circular needles and
learning knitting in the round, and is a pick for any knitter's reference library. It provides circular
projects that are portable and easy to learn, teaching all aspects of circular knitting and presenting
classic techniques such as Fair Isle, tubular and others in a series of step-by-step color photos.
The result is a fine survey that acts as a quick problem-solving reference and a step-by-step
techniques guide as well.
Lovely Knits for Little Girls
Vibe Sondergaard
Taunton Press
P.O. Box 5506
Newtown, CT 06470-5506
9781600855030, $22.95, www.taunton.com
Lovely Knits for Little Girls: 20 Just-Right Patterns, Just for Girls provides twenty patterns for
small dresses, sweaters, skirts and more for girls around the age of two, addressing the gap that
exists in project guides oriented around either babies or adults. It comes from a knitwear designer
who creates a bright, little-girl wardrobe of projects that are quick to knit and teach some basic
design tricks in the process. The result is a collection of patterns that are easy to size up or down
and filled with innovative, fun ideas.
Martingale & Company
19021 Avenue NE
Bothell, WA 98011
www.martingale-pub.com
Charlene Schurch & Beth Parrott's THE SOCK KNITTER'S HANDBOOK: EXPERT ADVICE,
TIPS, AND TRICKS (9781604680461, $26.99) provides fine instructions for both toe-up and
cuff-down sock knitting and teaches a range of techniques for knitting, from casting on and
working with heels and toes to sizing and binding off. A hardcover with lay-flat binding and
spine lettering makes it easy to follow the instructions while knitting, while the diversity of
stitches, methods and different sock styles lends to its use by beginning knitters who want a
range of approaches. Laura Farson's KNITTING SCANDINAVIAN SLIPPERS AND SOCKS
(9781604680492, $24.99) provides lovely knitting patterns for slippers and coordinating socks,
and is a project guide highly recommended for any knitting collection. The narrowed focus on
Scandinavian designs makes for a lovely survey packed with color photos of each project,
including close-up color patterns accompanied by specific stitches. Any with some basic knitting
knowledge will find this a warm and cozy guide.
Blackwork Made Easy
Lesley Wilkins
Search Press
1338 Ross Street
Petaluma, CA 94954-1117
9781844487530, $19.95, www.searchpress.com
BLACKWORK MAED EASYL; TECHNIQUES, PATTERNS & SAMPLERS teaches the
basics of how to create traditional blackwork embroideries using easy stitches on fabric. Step by
step photos and charts show how traditional patterns and borders can be blended to create unique
designs, showing how to create samplers inspired by old-style embroidery traditions. Full-page
patterns accompany the color step-by-step photos, making it a breeze for needleworkers to
duplicate blackwork. Any collection strong in embroidery techniques needs this!
Barn Quilts and the American Quilt Trail Movement
Suzi Parron with Donna Sue Groves
Swallow Press
c/o Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19, Athens, OH 45701
9780804011389, $29.95, www.ohioswallow.com
Barn Quilts and the American Quilt Trail Movement offers a colorful story of the American Quilt
Trail by an author who follows one of the fastest-growing grassroots public arts movements in
the U.S. and Canada. Here the authors travel through over twenty states as well as Canada to visit
the people and places that make up the movement, pairing journeys with color photos of the barn
quilt movement. The result is an exciting project survey containing dozens of interviews
documenting the movement from its 2001 founding by co-author Donna Sue Groves to modern
times.
The Audiobook Shelf
CyberSafety for Families
Paul O'Briant
Discipleship Resources
130 East Washington Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
9780881775921 $35.00 www.upperroom.com
Although author Paul O'Briant speaks from a devout Christian perspective, his audiobook
CyberSafety for Families is a practical and invaluable kit that families of all faiths would do well
to study at length. In today's internet-dominated world, it's more important than ever for parents
to educate their children and teens about online safety - from the basics of never giving out
personal information, to realizing that anything on the internet is "written in ink" (anything
uploaded online is capable of turning up in someone's Google search 20 or 50 years later), to
protecting oneself from viruses and scam artists, and much more. Computers, cellphones, video
games, and social networking sites are all covered; CyberSafety for Families also includes
teaching plans, handouts, and a slide presentation to drill its essential safety procedures in
classroom-style lessons. (All print materials are in pdf format and need Adobe Acrobat Reader to
be viewed; however, CyberSafety for Families is compatible with both the Mac and the PC).
CyberSafety for Families is absolutely essential addition to not only every public library every
family household, and an absolutely invaluable resource for teaching one's children important
safety topics that may or may not be fully covered in public school. Highly recommended.
The Pickwick Papers
Charles Dickens, author
David Timson, narrator
Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue, Suite 28
Franklin, TN 37064
9781843795551 $137.98 www.naxosaudiobooks.com
Superbly performed by BBC Radio Drama veteran David Timson, The Pickwick Papers is an
unabridged audiobook adaptation of Charles Dickens' debut novel, now justly recognized as a
classic. Set in England shortly before the advent of the railroad, The Pickwick Papers follows the
upper-class Mr. Pickwick and his caustically comedic cockney servant Sam Weller, as they travel
the nation in search of adventure and learning. From comic moments such as the Eatanswill
election and the trial of Mrs. Bardell vs. Pickwick to the stark atrocity that was debtors prison,
The Pickwick Papers is a superb rendition of Dickens' grand and thoroughly engaging adventure.
The Pickwick Papers is worthy of the highest recommendation for public library audiobook
collections, and as a special gift for audiobook lovers who especially enjoy great literary
treasures. 25 CDs, 32 hours 13 min.
Bram Stoker Dracula
Adapted by Charles Morey
L.A. Theatre Works
681 Venice Boulevard
Venice, CA 90291
9781580818322 $25.95 www.latw.org
Performed by a full cast of talented actors, Bram Stoker Dracula is audiobook adaptation of Bram
Stoker's legendary horror novel that solidified the vampire Dracula's immortal role in popular
culture. The monster Dracula has come to Victorian London with a cargo of his native
Transylvanian soil, and preys without remorse upon helpless victims; only one man, Dr. Van
Helsing, is courageous and clever enough to defy Dracula's murderous rampage. Van Helsing's
crusade will ultimately lead him to brave the vampire's lair with one of the only weapons that can
inflict lasting harm - a wooden stake! An extraordinary adaptation worthy of the timeless legend,
Bram Stoker Dracula is an absolute must-have for vampire and horror fans, and the perfect gift
for any reader of vampire fiction who has yet to connect with their favored genre's roots. 2 CDs,
1 hour 48 min.
Wildflower Hill
Kimberley Freeman, author
Caroline Lee, narrator
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd
Jackson, ME 04921
9781743108604 $24.99 www.bolinda.com
Wildflower Hill is an unabridged audiobook adaptation of Kimberley Freeman's novel that charts
the parallels in the lives between women in different eras. In 1920s Glasgow, eighteen-year-old
Beattie Blaxland and her married lover Henry incite the ire of their families when Blaxland
becomes pregnant; they venture to Australia in search of a new life, unaware of the hardships that
await. In 2009 London, the ballerina Lydia Blaxland-Hunter is struggling with a rough patch in
her career; when she returns to visit her Australian home, she learns that her beloved and recently
passed-on grandmother Beattie Blaxland has left her Tasmanian property. An unfolding saga of
discovery, awakening, love, seduction, and learning to adapt to the towering challenges of daily
life, Wildflower Hill is a thoughtful and highly recommended audiobook, superbly performed by
award-winning actress Caroline Lee. 13 CDs, 10 hours 35 min.
My Extraordinary Ordinary Life
Sissy Spacek with Maryanne Vollers
Hyperion Books
77 West 66th Street
New York, NY 10023-6298
9781401326241 $39.99 www.hyperionbooks.com
My Extraordinary Ordinary Life is the unabridged audiobook rendition of the memoir of
Academy Award-winning actress Sissy Spacek, read by Spacek herself. From the lessons of her
incredible parents, who taught her to reach for her dreams, to surviving the heartbreak of family
tragedy, and the labor of building her professional career from the ground up in New York. Yet at
the peak of her career, she and her family chose to abandon big-city life and move to a farm in
rural Virginia. My Extraordinary Ordinary Life is a thought-provoking journey, as much about
life's simple pleasures as it is about overcoming challenges, and highly recommended. 9 CDs, 10
hours.
The Real Crash
Peter D. Schiff, author
Oliver Wyman, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427226693 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com
The unabridged audiobook adaptation of The Real Crash: How to Save Yourself and Your
Country is a stark wake-up call by author, investment broker, financial commentator, recurring
CNBC and Fox News guest Peter D. Schiff (also known as the host of the radio show and
podcast "The Peter Schiff Show"). Schiff warns his fellow Americans that the next bubble
destined to burst and kick off a horrendous market crash will be a government-inflated bubble -
too much government spending and a mountain of amassed debt is fast reaching the breaking
point, with dire economic implications for everyone. The Real Crash examines not only how
America got into this mess, but also proposes a bold plan for getting out of it: Schiff advocates
extreme government cuts including the elimination of entire agencies, an end to expensive
foreign military escapades, the termination of mortgage interest or student loan deductions, and
the abandonment of useless drug wars and moral hazard-inducing bank bailouts. Perhaps most
controversial, Schiff proposes that America should declare bankruptcy, default on its debts, and
rebuild itself from square one! Though the listener might not agree with Schiff's more draconian
proposals, his call to take immediate action against a mounting debt that threatens our children's
future deserves to be heeded, and his recommendations for protecting one's family against the
next bubble-induced recession are quite welcome. Highly recommended. 10 CDs, 13 hours.
The Stonecutter
Camilla Lackberg, author
Steven T. Murray, translator
David Thorn, narrator
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781615735501 $39.95 www.highbridgeaudio.com
Adeptly translated into English by Steven T. Murray and smoothly performed by David Thorn,
The Stonecutter is an unabridged audiobook rendition of Swedish author Camilla Lackberg's
suspenseful murder mystery. Set in the remote tourist resort town of Fjallbacka, The Stonecutter
opens with discovery of a murdered little girl, and follows local detective Patrick Hedstrom in his
grim quest for justice. Hedstrom is himself a soon-to-be father, and wrestles with the difficulty of
probing the past of a victim who died far too young, and her grief-stricken family. The darkness
that Hedstrom uncovers may well tarnish Fjallbacka forever - but to allow the perpetrator of the
heinous crime to remain unpunished would surely be even worse! The Stonecutter is a gripping
novel of the dark side of human nature, unforgettable to the very end. 14 CDs, 17 hours.
Switchback
Matthew Klein, author
Chris Patton, narrator
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd
Jackson, ME 04921
9781743113455 $29.99 www.bolinda.com
Switchback is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a suspenseful story of the high-stakes
American Dream gone terribly wrong. Timothy Van Bender graduated from Yale, manages a
successful hedge fund, and has married a beautiful wife. But when his fund loses $24 million in a
foolish bet against the rising yen, everything turns for the worse. Investors start asking questions
that could bring about his livelihood's downfall, and just when his business is a hair's breadth
away from the end, his wife telephones him one last time - before allegedly jumping off a cliff at
Big Sur. Shocked and shaken, Timothy investigates his wife's death; his search grew even more
complicated when his secretary appears on his doorstep, claiming to be his deceased wife, with
the knowledge and memories to prove it. A dark tale of suspense, fraud, and deception,
Switchback will keep listeners riveted to the very end. 9 CDs, 9 hours 59 minutes, tracks every 3
minutes for easy bookmarking.
Spaceman Blues
Brian Francis Slattery, author
Robert Ramirez, narrator
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
9781436119399 $77.75 www.recordedbooks.com
Spaceman Blues: A Love Song is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of Brian Francis
Slattery's debut novel, a sci-fi odyssey about Wendell Apogee's distraught search for Manuel, his
mysteriously vanished lover. His quest takes him into the seediest boroughs of New York, where
he encounters thieves, assassins, cultists, and worse. But the more Wendell searches, the more
evidence mounts that Manual's disappearance was the result of forces beyond the known mortal
world! Suspensefully read by professional stage actor Robert Ramirez, Spaceman Blues is an
unforgettable saga of intrigue, counterculture dystopia, and true love (between gay men), highly
recommended for audiobook connoisseurs interested in a tale that is truly out of this world. 6
CDs, 6 3/4 hours.
The Witness
Nora Roberts, author
Julia Whelan, narrator
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887
Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781455818150 $36.99 www.brillianceaudio.com
The Witness is the unabridged audiobook rendition of Nora Roberts' suspenseful novel about a
woman hyperfocused upon personal security and self-control, and the police chief who finds
himself increasingly drawn to her. Chief Brooks Gleason is intrigued by local newcomer Abigail
Lowery, who works from home as a freelance programmer designing security systems, owns a
temperamental dog, not to mention multiple firearms. Gleason's instincts tell him that Abigail is
threatened by someone or something; her defenses clearly hide painful, buried secrets. But the
deeper Gleason becomes involved, the closer he comes to crossing the path of truly dangerous
men! The Witness is a powerful character study and work of suspense, and sure to prove a
popular lending library pick. 14 CDs, 16 hours 30 min.
Hachette Audio
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017
www.hachetteaudio.com
James Patterson and David Ellis's GUILT WIVES (9781607884682, $34.98) comes to life under
the New York-based voice and TV personality of actress January LaVoy, who lends a dramatic
and sensitive touch to this story of a weekend binge in Monte Carlo where four best friends lead
a fantasy weekend - until Abbie awakens on a yacht surrounded by police, her friends arrested.
Betrayal, guilt, and a struggle for survival contribute to a vivid thriller that's simply impossible to
stop listening to - and filled with unexpected twists and turns to its satisfying conclusion. Tom
Rob Smith narrates AGENT 6 (9781611139907, $34.98), which comes to life under a fine
reading by Dennis Boutsikaris and chronicles three decades, two murders, and a puzzling
mystery agent. International intrigue and espionage combines with a powerful investigation of a
killer who murdered Leo Demidov's family in a fine choice for any lending library. David
Baldacci's THE INNOCENT (9781607885719, $39.98) receives a fine dual narration by Ron
McLarty with Orlagh Casidy whose voices spice the fine story of intrigue and espionage. Robie
is a hitman who never questions orders - until something goes wrong. His refusal to kill on
command makes Robie a target on the run, and his flight will bring him in touch with others
whose lives are changed by murder and violence. THE INNOCENT's powerful story of two very
different lives intersecting makes for a powerful listen, hard to lay aside! Carole King's A
NATURAL WOMAN (9781611133639, $29.98) provides a memoir narrated by Carole King
herself and is a pick for any audio holding strong in autobiography or music. Carole King is best
known for her pop folk songs, but A NATURAL WOMAN reveals the woman behind the music,
detailing her career and describing her childhood in Brooklyn, her experience as a young bride
and mother, and her many relationships with men and fellow musicians that shaped her life and
influenced her music. Any fan of Carole King will welcome her revealing account! Joyce Meyer's
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR... FORGIVE (9781611133974, $24.98) is narrated by Sandra
McCollum, the author's younger daughter, who reads her mother's audiobook focusing on anger
and the conflicts Christians experience in managing it. Joyce explains how anger can be managed
and reveals issues surrounding the roots of anger, is various forms, and how to live with it and
ultimately forgive. A powerful pick for any audio collection; particularly those strong in
psychology or Christian insights.
Random House Audio
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 8th floor
New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouseaudio.com
John Grisham's CALICO JOE (9780449011003, $30.00) receives a fine narration by Erik Singer,
who has performed in many off-Broadway pays and worked with regional theatres around the
country, and whose voice spices a fine story of fathers, sons, and stormy family relationships.
Calico Joe would become the greatest rookie baseball player any had ever met, and the idol of
every baseball fan in the country. Until one day when a fastball would change all their lives.
CALICO JOE is packed with baseball moments and family relationships, friendships changed
and lost, and more: any collection strong in audio novels will find this a winner. Elaine Pagels'
REVELATIONS: VISIONS, PROPHECY, AND POLITICS IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION
(9780307099263, $35.00) receives a fine reading by Lorna Raver who has won numerous awards
for her fine narrative style. Her acting skills lend drama and interest to a history of the most
controversial book of the Bible, offering a powerful survey of John's prophecies and relating the
writings in Revelations to real-world scenarios. Any spirituality holding needs this fine
survey!
Brilliance Audio
PO Box 887
Grand Haven, MI 49417
www.brillianceaudio.com
Jack Higgins's BLOODY PASSAGE (9781441856112, $29.99) is performed by Christopher
Lane, whose voice lends a vivid drama to this tense thriller revolving around a decorated soldier
turned mercenary, who sells his services to the highest bidder when things get rough. Oliver is
chosen to rescue a Mafia boss's stepson from a Libyan prison - but he doesn't want the job. Force
is applied and Oliver finds himself caught in a deadly web of intrigue in this fast-paced,
satisfying story that translates well to audio. Suzanne Brockmann's BORN TO DARKNESS
(9781441850799, $34.99) receives a fine dual narration by Melanie Ewbank and Patrick Lawlor
who spice the story of a former Navy SEAL Shane, down on his luck when he finds work as a
test subject at a scientific institute. The experiment involves access to untapped areas of the brain
- and Shane discovers the institute is actually finding and experimenting with telekinesis, super
strength, and even reversing aging. Can a designer drug change his life? Gripping action and
suspense spice a story that proves hard to stop listening to!
The Library CD Shelf
Love Travels
Julie Reiber
Privately Published
c/o Dan Fortune (publicity)
$12.99 CD / $9.99 MP3 www.juliereiber.com www.cdbaby.com
Love Travels is the debut solo music CD by singer and actress Julie Reiber, currently playing the
role of Marion in "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" on Broadway. Consisting of a blend of original
songs and beloved musical theater tunes by a variety of composers, Love Travels has the binding
theme of the emotion, beauty, and power of love itself. A glowing, vibrant performance that
soothes the soul and lifts up the spirit, Love Travels is highly recommended. The tracks are "I
Got Love", "Knocks Me Off My Feet", "Little Green", "When You're Around", "Through the
Mountain", "Still Hurting", "Walk On By", "Back To You", "Let Him Fly", "Be My Love",
"Stay", "There's a Way", "Hold Out, Hold Up, Hold On", and "Bonus Track - Defying
Gravity".
To Carmen with Love
Shawnn Monteiro
www.shawnnmonteiro.com
Whaling City Sound
1310 Tucker Road, No. Dartmouth, MA 02747
Mixed Media (publicity)
20 Lockmere Road, Cranston, RI 02910
$15.00 www.mixedmediapromo.com www.whalingcitysound.com
Shawnn Monteiro offers tribute the wonderful and all-too-overlooked jazz singer Carmen McRae
in To Carmen with Love, a soulfully beautiful album. Monteiro sings in the same style as McRae
once did, accompanied by a spare three-piece band; the songs are carefully selected from among
McRae's personal favorites. To Carmen with Love is a joy to experience for fans of jazz, and
highly recommended. The tracks are "Old Devil Moon" (9:46), "Yesterdays" (6:18), "I
Concentrate On You" (5:20), "Old Black Magic" (4:20), "You're Looking At Me" (5:51), "Mean
To Me" (3:50), "Come In From The Rain" (3:38), "Miss Brown (to you)" (3:36), "Speak Low"
(4:37), "Nice Work" (3:40), "I Have The Feeling I've Been Here Before" (6:39), and "Nature
Boy" (6:25).
Safety Fifth
Mucca Pazza
Electric Cowbell Records
c/o Rock Paper Scissors
511 West 4th Street, Suite 2
Bloomington, IN 47404
$10.97 www.rockpaperscissors.biz
The Chicago band Mucca Pazza likes to take on the appearance of a marching band, but their
music surges with the unstoppable rhythms of rock-'n'-roll. Their latest album, Safety Fifth, lives
up to its devil-may-care title by drawing upon a grand medley of eccentric yet enthusiastic
influences, from homages to pop culture television, to drum-and-brass exuberance, funky guitar,
and even accordion tango. Safety Fifth is a lively listening experience, especially recommended
for early morning car commutes, the better to energize one's day!
BEEing Human
Mark Bruland
Appley Ever After
c/o The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
$12.97 CD / $10.97 MP3 www.thecreativeservicecompany.com www.cdbaby.com
BEEing Human is a music album by dedicated beekeeper Mark Bruland, who pours as much
heart and soul into his contemporary instrumental songs as he does into his 46-acre organic farm.
The themes of BEEing Human revolve around the joys of farmwork, family life, and friends.
Bruland's bees are an invaluable part of his farm, since they pollinate his apple orchid and
raspberry crop. BEEing Human is also a tribute to Bruland's closest friends, some of whom
battled or even died from life-threatening illnesses. A holistic and unforgettable album, BEEing
Human is highly recommended. The tracks are "BEEing Human" (3:33), "Suite Honey Bee"
(2:38), "Oms Child" (2:50), "Eclaire" (2:55), "Elk and Little G" (2:15), "No Matter What" (3:31),
"An Afternoon with Steve" (3:26), "Richard's Horn" (3:08), "Pictures from Wheels" (3:57), "A
Cool Breeze for Louise" (4:34), "My Laughing Heart" (3:33), "Tom Parker's Wind Chimes"
(4:55), "The Cheyenne Rose" (2:42), "Alexanders' Grove" (3:28), "Blue Eyed Steel" (3:39),
"Natylee's Bench" (3:18), "Vicki's Lessons" (2:50), and "Marking Time" (4:21).
Demoni
Kottarashky and the Rain Dogs
Asphalt Tango Records
c/o FlipSwitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207
Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$31.65 www.flipswitchPR.com www.amazon.com
Balkan beat-master Kottarashky and his Sofia musician friends the Rain Dogs present Demoni, a
wildly exuberant album blending ethnic tunes and electronic rhythms into an incredible panoply
of soundscapes. Demoni is an exceptional addition to international music album collections, and
highly recommended to listeners who thrill to the joy of unparalleled new experiences. The
tracks are "Aman Aman" (4:41), "Doctore" (3:46), "Pancho Says" (3:52), "Begemot" (6:55),
"Slavyanka Blues" (4:13), "Trans 5" (4:16), "Ungroovie" (4:52), "Babo" (3:59), "Put a Blessing
on" (6:35), "Blatoto" (5:04), "Vlasti" (3:50), and "Demoni" (3:18).
Canyon Records Productions
3131 West Clarendon Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85017
www.canyonrecords.com
Three new albums from venerable Native American music publisher Canyon Records continue to
celebrate tribal traditions in new and harmonious ways. "Horse Dance: Mistatim Simoowin"
($16.72, 44 min. 33 sec.) by the Cree Confederation is a collection of Pow-Wow songs recorded
live at ASU, with joyful singing, rhythmic drumming, and vibrant Plains Cree lyrics. "True
Melodies" ($16.72) by Grammy-nominated, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame singer Cheevers
Toppah evolves the musical traditions of southern Plains tribes with extraordinarily beautiful
multi-part harmonies and arraged vocals. Fawn Wood's "Iskwewak: Songs of Indigenous
Womanhood" ($16.72, 46 min. 57 sec.) is a tribute to the womanly virtues of strength, intuition,
and love, celebrating them as core qualities of the cultural legacy of indigenous woman
everywhere. Wood draws upon her Cree and Salish lineage to craft stirring, emotionally powerful
songs in this beautiful and moving album. All three CDs are excellent additions to any Native
American music collections, and highly recommended for both personal and public library music
collections.
The Library DVD Shelf
Money & Medicine
a film by Roger Weisberg
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
$295.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com
Winner of the Remi Award in the WorldFest at Houston, Money & Medicine is a documentary
that scrutinizes one of the reasons American health care costs are skyrocketing out of control -
overtreatment. The health care field is rife with moral, ethical, and financial dilemmas, that
manifest as radically different rates in which certain expensive treatments (that just might be
unnecessary!) are performed across the country. For example, some states have a much higher
incidence of elective Cesarean Section deliveries than others, even though the procedure is a
major surgery with significant risks. Money & Medicine also examines heartbreaking end-of-life
choices, including the modern tendency to prolong the deaths of people whose severe organ
failure means that it is almost impossible for them to recover. Other controversies arise over
cancer screenings; should women start getting mammograms at age 40 or 50, given that the
procedure has a small amount of risk? How aggressively should men screen for and treat prostate
cancer, especially when surgically removing an anomaly that is statistically likely to be nonfatal
can have lifelong negative side effects such as impotence or incontinence? There is no
one-size-fits-all answer, but as health care costs continue to soar, these crucial questions and
related problems concerning the phenomenon of overtreatment need to be faced head-on. Perhaps
Money & Medicine's most important lesson lies in its emphasis on the importance of peer review
and the group pooling of information among medical professionals; when doctors share what
they know among themselves and collect aggregate data, they are better empowered to help their
patients make difficult, life-changing decisions. Highly recommended. 83 min.
This is Civilization
Matthew Collings, host
Athena
c/o Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598288162 $39.99 www.acornonline.com
A modern update of BBC's notable 1969 series "Civilization", This is Civilization is a four-part
documentary on two DVDs that explores what art has to say about humanity throughout the
centuries. Spotlighting on masterpieces ranging from ancient Greek sculpture and the temples of
Egypt to the geometric patterns of mosques, the fiery art of the French Revolution, pioneers of
modern art such as Picasso and Pollack, and even the stinging indictments of commercialized
pop culture crafted by Chinese artist and photographer Wang Qingsong. A grand showcase of
artistic masterpieces, This is Civilization is the next best thing to attending museums in person,
further enriched by host Matthew Collings extensive commentary on the rich interplay between
art and human culture. Bonus features include a 12-page viewer's guide peppered with articles,
and biographies of profiled artists, This is Civilization is an absolute must-see for art lovers, and
highly recommended for public library DVD collections. 2 DVDs, 192 min., widescreen, SDH
subtitles.
Programmed To Be Fat?
A documentary from Dreamfilm
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
1937772160 $250.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com
Licensed for public performance, Programmed To Be Fat? observes that first-world nations with
a modern American lifestyle have populations that are heavier than ever. Is this entirely due to
unhealthy diet and exercise habits? Programmed To Be Fat? explores the research that multiple
scientists have done implying that man-made chemicals might have compounded the obesity
epidemic. Could exposure to certain chemicals in the womb result in children who are genetically
programmed to be fatter? Experiments with lab mice seem to indicate as much. The chemical
BPA, which can be absorbed through the skin simply from handling printed receipts or ingested
by drinking/eating from certain plastic containers, has been linked to weight gain, and is
extraordinarily prevalent in our modern culture. Programmed To Be Fat? raises disturbing but
vital questions about whether our current procedures for testing the safety of chemicals are
comprehensive enough (especially when new chemicals seem to be "innocent until proven
guilty"), and is highly recommended. 45 min., SDH captions.
Monroe Series 1
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598287868 $39.99 www.acornonline.com
Monroe Series 1 is a collection on DVD of the British drama following Dr. Gabriel Monroe
(played by James Nesbitt, known for his work in "Murphy's Law"), a witty neurosurgical genius
with a strong sense of right and wrong, and a maverick penchant for arrogantly defying the rules.
An outrage to his colleagues, a terror to his interns, and yet a savior to his patients, Monroe and
the rest of his surgical team must navigate thorny challenges in their personal lives as well as
challenging life-or-death cases in their professional work. The extra twists of tight plotting and
dry, unforgettable British humor cement "Monroe" as an absolute "must-see" for fans of medical
drama! 6 episodes on 2 DVDs, 274 min., 16:9 widescreen, SDH subtitles.
Biophilic Design
a documentary by Stephen R. Kellert & Bill Finnegan
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
1937772101 $250.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com
Licensed for public performance, Biophilic Design: The Architecture of Life is a documentary
that explores the intrinsic value of incorporating elements of nature and natural life into human
living, working, and educational environments. "Green" architecture, which often allows spaces
for living trees or even ecosystems, is not only environmentally friendly but also refreshing to the
body and soul. Patients in hospitals with biophilic design recover more quickly and have less
stress; workers in environments with biophilic design enjoy themselves more and find it easier to
concentrate; and students in schools with biophilic design can benefit from whole new ways of
learning that teach them about the value of nature. A thought-provoking study brimming with
invaluable ideas especially for architects, policy makers, and interior designers, Biophilic Design
is highly recommended. 60 min., SDH captioned.
Take Me Home
Monterey Media Inc.
566 St. Charles Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360-3901
9781569943656 $26.95 www.montereymedia.com
Take Me Home: A Comedy About The Road Less Traveled is a multiple award-winning
independent film about two people who stumble into one another just as they are at the end of
their respective ropes. Thom Colvin (played by Sam Jaeger) is desperately struggling to pursue
his dream of being a professional photographer, but cannot scrape together enough money to
avoid being evicted, and moonlights as an unlicensed cab driver to barely survive. Claire Barrow
(played by Amber Jaeger) is struggling with a troubled marriage, and two terrible events in one
day push her over the edge - an unexpected discovery of her husband on too-friendly terms with
his attractive secretary, and the news that the emotionally distant father she hasn't seen in years
has suffered a heart attack. When Claire randomly happens into Thom's cab and demands that he
"just drive", it begins a cross-country odyssey that will ultimately lead each of them to learn from
one another, and find the strength to confront their respective personal demons. A thoughtful
film, Take Me Home balances light romantic comedy with soulful emotion, and is a journey that
will entrance the viewer from beginning to end. Highly recommended. Bonus features include a
"behind the scenes" segment and brief cast interviews. 97 min., closed captioned, 16:9
anamorphic, rated PG-13.
Rails to the Twin Ports
Pentrex
2652 East Walnut St.
Pasadena, CA 91107
1563423022 $29.95 www.pentrex.com
Rails to the Twin Ports is a spectacular DVD tour of the railroad facilities of the Twin Ports of
Duluth, Minnesota and Superior, Wisconsin, as recorded in the late 1990s by Pentrex, the
quintessential creators of entertainment for railroad aficionados. Featuring gorgeous camerawork
of the major railroads that served the Twin Ports (Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Union Pacific,
Canadian Pacific, Canadian national, Wisconsin Central, and ore-haulers Duluth, Missabe, &
Iron Range), Rails to the Twin Ports is shows operations of these hardy industrial trains across all
four seasons. Informative narration enhances this immersive documentary for railroad
aficionados! 1 hour 54 min., standard definition, 4x3 format. Also a choice pick for railroad fans
is the Pentrex documentary "UP 844 New Mexico-Arizona Centennial Special" (1563423294,
$29.95, 1 hour 42 min.), which follows an extraordinary, history-marking tour of a veteran
steam-powered train decades after the retirement of its model.
The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf
Tips, Tools, & Techniques
Georgia Kemp Caraway
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336
Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574414516, $14.95, www.unt.edu/untpress
Heirlooms become heirlooms with their age, and with age, comes a certain fragility. "Tips, Tools,
& Techniques: To Care for Antiques, Collectibles, and Other Treasures" is an advisory guide for
those who are in charge of managing aging heirlooms of their family which may be hundreds of
years old, or possibly older. With care advice as well as collectible and monetary information on
trading collectibles and antiques, "Tips, Tools, & Techniques" is a must for anyone dealing in
older antiques and collectibles who wants tips on doing it more effectively.
Warman's Field Guides
Krause Publications
700 East State St.
Iola WI 54990-0001
www.krausebooks.com
Updated editions of two Warman's field guides are fine picks for any collector, packaged in
pocket-sized take-along totes and packed with color illustrations and at-a-glance prices. Maurice
D. Wozniak's U.S. STAMPS FIELD GUIDE - 2ND EDITION (9781440216992, $14.99)
features over 1,000 color pictures and the latest pricing for all 4,250+ U.S. regular-issue and
Airmail stamps from 1847-2010. New chapters on Christmas and Error stamps accompany
accurate prices for both Unused and Used conditions, making this a fine collector's pick. Arlyn
G. Sieber's U.S. COINS & CURRENCY FIELD GUIDE, 4TH EDITION (1440216983, $14.99)
provides new information on 2009 and 2010 circulating issues, proof sets, and more, covering
content and values for coins and currency from 1809 to the present and including modern
commemoratives, gold and silver coins, and more. Both are powerful picks for any collectors
working in the field who want the latest values at a glance.
The Education Shelf
Welcome to Storytime!
Rob Reid
Upstart Books
c/o Highsmith Press
PO Box 5210
Janesville, WI 53547-5210
9781602130593 $15.95 www.highsmith.com
Children's literature instructor Rob Reid presents Welcome to Storytime! The Art of Story
Program Planning, a flat-spined guide to hosting story program written especially to aid teachers
and librarians in sharing their love of books with children in grades PK-1. Welcome to
Storytime! includes recommendations for selecting the best picturebooks; creating fingerplays
and song lyrics; tips, tricks, and techniques for a successful program (from discipline suggestions
to aways to avoid burnout and recommendations for the program area), and a host of sample
programs and lesson plans. "For the occasional child who is very disruptive, you need to discuss
the problem with the parent or childcare provider after the program... The parents may have to sit
in during the program with the child on their laps, or even keep the child from attending the
program for a few months until the child has matured a bit and is ready to behave." Welcome to
Storytime" is an excellent, hands-on, user-friendly resource, and highly recommended to
education and childcare professionals alike.
Empowering Teen Peers to Prevent Bullying
Arthur M. Horne & Collaborators
Research Press
PO Box 9177
Champaign, IL 61826
9780878226641, $39.95, www.researchpress.com
Bullying's effects seem to be more grim than ever. "Empowering Teen Peers to Prevent Bullying:
The Bully Busters Program for High School" is a guide to encouraging teens against and to
prevent bullying, in today's era where cruelty often extends to off school grounds dealing with
cyber-bullying and the tragic effects bullying sometimes has. "Empowering Teen Peers to
Prevent Bullying" is a strong pick for educational and social issues collections.
Critical Perspectives In Canadian Music Education
Carol A. Beynon & Karl K. Veblen, editors
Wilfrid Laurier University Press
Wilfrid Laurier University
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3C5
www.wlupress.wlu.ca
9781554583669, $39.95, www.amazon.com
The teaching of music in Canadian schools is an important part of curriculums in grade schools,
high schools, colleges, universities, and community cultural groups. The collaborative editorial
selections of music education advocate Carol A. Beynon and academician Karl K. Veblen,
"Critical Perspectives In Canadian Music Education" is a 230-page compendium comprised of
thirteen informed, informative, expert contributions that range from Betty Hanley's 'The Roots of
Canadian Music Education'; to Carol Beynon's 'Looking Back at Choral Music Education in
Canada'; to Kari Veblen's 'Community Music Making'; to Betty Ann Younker's 'Focusing on
Critical Practice and Insights in the Music Teacher Education Curriculum'. Of special note are
the insights into the distinctly Canadian cultural and historical factors that have shaped and
influenced music education. A collective work of impressive seminal scholarship, "Critical
Perspectives In Canadian Music Education" is a unique and strongly recommended addition to
academic library World Music History collections in general, and Canadian Music History
collections in particular.
GRE Premier 2013 Edition
Kaplan Publishing
1 Liberty Plaza, 24th floor
New York, NY 10006
9781609781002, $34.99, www.kaplanpublishing.com
To enter the best graduate schools, one has to master the GRE. "GRE Premier" is the 2013
edition of the test advisory guide from Kaplan Publishing, who equip readers with what they
need to prepare themselves for this test and how to flourish more effectively in their academic
pursuits. With many practice tests, scholarly and comprehensive advice on each section of the
test, and additional resources through Facebook, an accompanying DVD, and an iPad version of
the book. "GRE Premier" is a strong pick for any student who is looking on the next step in their
educational career with dread and wants to emerge with flying colors.
The Big Book of Therapeutic Activity Ideas for Children and Teens
Lindsey Joiner
Jessica Kingsley
Box 960, Herndon VA 20172-0960
9781849058650, $29.95, www.jkp.com
The Big Book of Therapeutic Activity Ideas for Children and Teens: Inspiring Arts-Based
Activities and Character Education Curricula comes from a Positive Behavior Specialist and
licensed counselor who works with a Mississippi public school district helping kids and teens
through day treatment and community programs incorporating arts-based activities. Her guide
thus is packed with real-world applications and is filled with creative activities to increase
enjoyment and reinforce positive behaviors. A wide variety of techniques use art, music, stories,
poetry and film to teach conflict resolution, social skills development, and more.
Beyond Behavior Management, second edition
Jenna Bilmes
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court
St. Paul, MN 55117-1065
9781605540733, $34.95, www.redleafpress.org
Beyond Behavior Management: The Six Life Skills Children Need provides a set of strategies
developed and tested in the classroom that teach how to manage challenging behaviors in all
children. This second edition includes many changes in early childhood education, pairing each
life skill with early learning standards and considering added issues of cultural awareness. When
kids absorb these s0069 lessons, they exhibit more prosocial behaviors and are better learners:
every teacher should read this!
The Democratic Dilemma of American Education
Arnold Shober
Westview Press
2465 Central Avenue
Boulder CO 80301
9780813345369, $35.00, www.westviewpress.com
The Democratic Dilemma of American Education provides a fine analysis of the politics of U.S.
education policy and considers modern controversies over education governance, teachers
unions, school funding, choices, and social issues - and considers the impact on democratic
education processes as a whole. Chapters will appeal to a college-level audience consisting of
education and political science readers as they analyze education's challenges in light of basic
democratic principles. Highly recommended!
Corwin Press
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.corwin.com
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING: DIFFERENTIATING INSTRUCTION FOR THE 21ST
CENTURY (9781412997904, $36.95) by William Bender gathers strategies and assessment
methods for implementing a project-based learning program for grades K-12, and is a winning
title for any teacher interested in understanding the approach's successes and is packed with
real-world examples. It comes from a teacher who has also published over 60 research articles
over the decades, and offers a range of practical approaches perfect for any teacher's collection.
Karla J. Reiss' Be A Changemaster (9781412997454, $36.95) provides 12 coaching strategies
and is directed to leaders at all levels of education. From handling small groups to individual
coaching, this offers a range of strategies that will prove useful in all kinds of schools at all
levels. THE BRAIN-TARGETED TEACHING MODEL FOR 21ST+ CENTURY SCHOOLS
(9781412991988, $36.95) by Mariale M. Hardiman provides a proven model for applying brain
research to instruction processes, offering a framework for change that help teachers assess the
choices and effects of brain-friendly learning strategies in the classroom. Educators can engage
students on better levels using the teaching model presented herein, which offers methods for
K-12 and higher education alike. The focus on brain research and best practices alike makes for a
powerful collection of ideas teachers will find specific and stimulating. John Barell's HOW DO
WE KNOW THEY'RE GETTING BETTER? ASSESSMENT FOR 21ST CENTURY MINDS,
K-8 (9781412995283, $39.95) provides an outstanding survey packed with keys to measuring a
student's progression in critical thinking and skills. It explains how inquiry leads to problem
solving and offers teachers insights into the entire formative assessment process, using classroom
examples to cover the basics of collaboration, learning measurement, and leadership. Any teacher
will find this a specific, useful measurement and assessment guide!
The Cookbook Shelf
Grill This, Not That!
David Zinczenko & Matt Goulding
Rodale Press
733 Third Avenue, NY, NY 10017
www.rodalepress.com
9781609618223, $19.99, www.amazon.com
A compact, 368-page compendium that is the collaborative work of David Zinczenko and Matt
Goulding, "Grill This, Not That!" combines an instruction manual for backyard grilling with a
culinary wealth of grilling recipes that range from appetizers, snacks and small bites, to salads,
vegetables, burgers and sandwiches, pizza, poultry, red meat, fish and seafood, and even
desserts! Profusely illustrated with full color photographs of finished dishes, "Grill This, Not
That!" offers a cornucopia of palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, nutritious fare that ranges from
Artichoke Pesto Pizzas; Tandoori Chicken; Classic Baby Back Ribs; and Stuffed Flank Steak; to
Salmon with Ginger Soy Butter; Grilled Meatballs with Smoky Tomato Sauce; Vietnamese-Style
Chicken Wings; and Grilled Banana Splits. With grilling season upon us, "Grill This, Not That!"
is very highly recommended for personal, family, and community library cookbook
collections.
Great Food Fast
Bob Warden
Quail Ridge Press
PO Box 123, Brandon, MS 39043
www.quailridge.com
9781934193792, $24.95, www.amazon.com
For today's kitchen cook, time is of the essence -- so is the desire to prepare dishes that are
nutritious, palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, while simultaneously quick and easy to prepare.
That's why food enthusiast Bob Warden's "Great Food Fast" will prove to be as popular as it is
indispensable for today's family chefs! Utilizing the pressure cooker, the thoroughly 'user
friendly' illustrated recipes range from Rosemary Pot Roast; Cheeseburger Macaroni; Buffalo
Chicken Strips; and Tender Poached Salmon; to Cajun Crab Risotto; Creamy Succotash;
Traditional Minestrone Soup; and Mango Shortcake. Enhanced with a suggested Pantry List and
Cooking Time Charts, "Great Food Fast" is an ideal and highly recommended addition to
personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.
Everyday Cooking With The Halogen Oven
Paul Brodel & Carol Beckerman
Sellers Publishing
161 John Roberts Road
South Portland, ME 04106
www.makefun.com
9781416206927, $18.95, www.amazon.com
A halogen oven is a modern invention that is also referred to as an infrared or convection oven. It
is similar to a crockpot in that it is used almost exclusively for one pot meals but has the added
advantage of being able to bake, broil, saute, steam, fry, and even grill -- all on the kitchen
counter top. Powered by en electric cord plugged into an ordinary wall socket, require
significantly less power than a conventional oven. Its advantage over a microwave oven is that it
can brown foods perfectly, resulting in foods with a perfectly cooked interior and a crisp,
attractive exterior. The collaborative work of culinary enthusiasts Paul Brodel and Carol
Beckerman, "Everyday Cooking With The Halogen Oven" beautifully showcases 80 recipes
specifically designed to take full advantage of a halogen oven. Superbly illustrated in full color
the dishes range from Bacon Bagels; Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa; Moroccan-Spiced
Butterfly Quail; and Pesto-Crusted Cod; to Grilled Asparagus Wrapped in Parma Ham; Creamy
Spinach Casserole; and even Popcorn! Informed and informative, "Everyday Cooking With The
Halogen Oven" is enhanced with clear instructions on its use, care, and specialized cooking
techniques making it very highly recommended for personal, family, and community library
specialty cookbook collections.
Ball Complete Book Of Home Preserving
Judi Kingry & Lauren Devine, editors
Robert Rose Inc.
120 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 800
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M4P 1E2
www.robertrose.ca
9780778801313, $29.95, www.amazon.com
For anyone on a limited budget, buying fresh fruits and vegetables when they are in season is the
least expensive way to obtain and consuming them when they are at their harvested peak. The
next best thing is to take advantage of seasonal savings and can them for future use -- especially
in the winter months. That's why the "Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving", a 448-page
compendium of instructional information on the processes of home preserving, combined with a
culinary wealth of some 400 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes utilizing home preserved ingredients,
is such a welcome addition to family cookbook collections. Enhanced with color illustrations, a
glossary, a produce purchase guide, a 4-page section devoted to 'Home Canning Problem
Solving', useful information on home canning equipment, practical advice on getting started, and
so much more, the "Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving" will prove invaluable and an
enduringly favorite culinary reference.
East Meets West
Stephanie Yuen
Douglas & McIntyre
2323 Quebec Street, Suite 201
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5T 4S7
www.douglas-mcintyre.com
9781553658634, $29.95, www.amazon.com
A major Canadian metropolis, Vancouver is home to an impressive diversity of culinary
traditions as represented by its world-class ethnic restaurants. "East Meets West: Traditional and
Contemporary Asian Dishes from Acclaimed Vancouver Restaurants" is a 224-page
compendium of delicious Asian cuisines drawn from Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese, Korean,
Malyasian, Filipino, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian recipes. Deftly compiled by Asian culinary
expert Stephanie Yuen, the dishes showcased in "East Meets West" range from Cantonese Won
Tons; Daikon, Scallion and Potato Pancakes; Taiwanese Five-Spice Chicken Nuggets; and
Lemon Grass Lamb Chops; to Roasted Crispy-Skin Pork; Braised Kadfu; Noodles with Kimchi;
and Custard Dumplings. Enhanced for western kitchen cooks with 'Guide to Asian Ingredients'
and 'Tips for Cooking and Serving', "East Meets West" will prove to be a prized and popular
addition to personal, family, and community ethnic cookbook collections.
Muffin Tin Chef
Matt Kadey
Ulysses Press
Box 3440, Berkeley CA 94703-3440
www.ulyssespress.com
9781612430522, $15.95, www.amazon.com
Whether for a pleasant culinary browse or as an invaluable resource for menu planning "Muffin
Tin Chef: 101 Savory Snacks, Adorable Appetizers, Enticing Entrees and Delicious Desserts"
compiled by registered dietician Matt Kadey offers unique, step-by-step, kitchen cook friendly
recipes for creating miniature versions of meal-time favorites using a muffin pan. With dishes
ranging from French Toasties with Blueberry Compote; Crustless Smoked Salmon Quiches; and
Chicken Italiano Pizza; to Bean Loaves with Tomato Jam; Jalapeno Cheese Rolls; and Pistachio
Butter-Dark Chocolate Cups, "Muffin Tin Chef" showcases 160 pages of wonderfully illustrated
offerings to please both the eye and the palate, making it enthusiastically recommended for
personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.
The Maine Lobster Book
Virginia M. Wright
Down East Books
PO Box 679, Camden, ME 04843
www.downeastbooks.com
9781608930418, $14.95, www.amazon.com
'Lobster from Maine' signals culinary excellence and top-of-the-line dining. Written and
compiled by Virginia M. Wright, "The Maine Lobster Book" is a 96-page little volume that
combines a descriptive history of the lobster, the Maine lobster fishing industry, and an
impressive series of lobster recipes. The step-by-step recipes range from Lobster Pie, Lobster
Chowder, and Grilled Thai Chili Lobster; to Red's Eats World Famous Lobster Roll; Marjorie
Mosser's Lobster Bisque; and Roasted Maine Lobster Tail on Braised Cabbage and Cornbread.
Profusely illustrated throughout, informed and informative, "The Maine Lobster Book" is a
delightful read and will enable even the most novice of kitchen cooks to prepare outstanding
lobster dishes for any and all dining occasions!
Pure BBQ
Steffen Eichhorn, et al.
Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road
Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764340130, $24.99, www.amazon.com
We are once again entering outdoor grilling season! The collaborative work of barbecue
enthusiasts Steffen Eichhorn, Stefan Marquard, and Stephan Otto, "Pure BBQ" begins with an
insightful chapter exploring the criteria for selecting the best meats, followed by an invaluable
chapter focusing on good BBQ preparation including the options of direct grilling, indirect
grilling, and smoking. Superbly illustrated in full color beef, pork, lamb, poultry, fish, and shell
fish recipes follow. Of special note is the chapter dedicated to grilled side dishes and the chapter
focusing on rubs, glazes and sauces. The recipes range from Burger de Lux; Pulled Pork
Sandwiches; Rack of Lamb Miami Beach-Style; and Hot Smoked Chicken Wings; to Grilled
Oysters; Eggs Grilled in Peppers; Porterhouse Steak Kansas Style; and Pork Tenderloin
Iberian-Style. If you own an outdoor grill, you will want to add "Pure BBQ" to your cookbook
shelf for a total barbeque culinary experience for any and all occasions!
Hot Sauce!
Jennifer Trainer Thompson
Storey Publishing
210 Mass MoCA Way
North Adams, MA 01247
www.storey.com
9781603428163, $14.95, www.amazon
What is life without a little spice? What is food without a little bit? Over the past few decades,
American cuisine has benefited immeasurably from the introduction of salsas, peppers, and hot
sauce! Now an entire cookbook of recipes has been dedicated to home kitchen manufacture of
outstanding hot sauces and showcasing thirty-two recipes to get even the most novice of kitchen
cooks started of with palate pleasing style, elegance, and diversity. Enhanced with colorful
photographic illustrations, "Hot Sauce!" begins with a history of the condiment, the types of hot
sauces available, and advice for working with chilies and other ingredients. Then come a culinary
wealthy of step-by-step recipes for making hot sauces. Next is a 'real world' useful section
dedicated to recipes for cooking with hot sauces. Enhanced with advice for starting a hot sauce
business, a useful resource list, and a comprehensive index, "Hot Sauce!" will prove to be a
welcome and much appreciated addition to personal, professional, and community library
specialty cookbook collections!
Garlic
Hatherleigh Press
c/o The Hatherleigh Foundation
5-22 46th Ave, Ste 200
Long Island City, NY 11101
9781578264056, $9.50, www.hatherleighpress.com
Garlic is healthy and can add a lot of flavor to a dish. "Garlic: Over 75 Farm Fresh Recipes" is a
cookbook centered around this vegetable and how to use it in many types of dishes to make the
most of it all. With straight forward and easy to follow recipes on burgers, butters, stir fries, and
even some vegetarian applications, "Garlic" is a must have for any lover of the cloves and wants
to use it more effectively for a healthier heart.
Alice's Tea Cup
Haley Fox & Lauren Fox
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
9780061964923, $24.00, www.chroniclebooks.com
ALICE'S TEA CUP: DELECTABLE RECIPES FOR SCONES, CAKES, SANDWICHES, AND
MORE FROM NEW YORK'S MOST WHIMSICAL TEA SPOT comes from sisters who own a
tea shop and here share nearly a hundred recipes from their popular Manhattan restaurants.
Alice's Tea Cup has been a New York City destination for almost ten years, and their cookbook
is packed with baked goods, sweets, savories, and specialty drinks alike. From children's
sandwiches to cookies, cakes and salads, this is a delightful collection.
Dinner in a Bowl
Better Homes & Gardens
John Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118038154, $17.99, www.wiley.com
Over a hundred recipes from the Better Homes and Gardens test kitchen are complimented by
color photos and accompanied by icons that identify 30-minute meals, kid-friendly dishes, and
more, making for a fine survey of one-bowl meals that are simple and quick to put together.
Chapters are arranged by four different approaches: The Asian Bowl, The European Bowl, The
American Bowl and The Salad Bowl, and make it easy to locate and use recipes based on
taste.
Ulysses Press
Box 3440
Berkeley, CA 94703-3440
www.ulyssespress.com
Matt Kadey's MUFFIN TIN CHEF (9781612430522, $15.95) offers a fine collection of recipes -
over a hundred - paired with over sixty color photos to help readers create miniature versions of
favorite dishes - including many surprising savory muffins, such as Two-Cheese Smoky Chicken
Cups or Eggplant Parmesan. Small portion sizes and faster baking times make for a fine
collection of family-friendly muffin recipes that can be easily incorporated into any meal plan.
The result is an outstanding survey perfect for any general lending library. Jessica Harlan's
RAMEN TO THE RESCUE COOKBOOK (9781569759905, $12.95) provides some 100 recipes
based on ramen and shows how to add sauces, seasonings and more to make such varied dishes
as Ramen Pizza, Ramen-n-Cheese, Pad Thai, and more. Some of the dishes are logical
extensions of ramen and others are unexpected delights, making RAMEN TO THE RESCUE a
fine cookbook choice.
The Pioneer Woman Cooks
Ree Drummond
Morrow Cookbooks
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022-5299
www.williammorrow.com
9780061997181, $29.99, www.harpercollins.com
THE PIONEER WOMAN COOKS: FOOD FROM MY FRONTIER offers recipes and daily
writings about life on an Oklahoma ranch, and provides a fun collection of simple dishes that are
ranch-based family favorites. From Cowgirl Quiche and Sloppy Joes to Rib-Eye Steak, these are
fine dishes paired with detailed step-by-step photos. All have been tested for their appeal to the
entire family, but it's the wealth of color throughout that makes this a fine recommendation above
all others.
Flavors of Malaysia
Susheela Raghavan
Hippocrene Books
171 Madison Avenue
New York NY 10016
0781812496, $40.00, www.hippocrenebooks.com
FLAVORS OF MALAYSIA: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME, TASTES, AND TRADITIONS
celebrates the best of Malaysian cooking, a cuisine blending Malay, Chinese, Indian, Arab and
even Dutch and Portuguese influences. Over a hundred recipes pair with family stories and notes
on the history of Malaysian food in a collection pairing color photos with such dishes as Sweet
Coconut Crepes, Spicy Egg Curry, and Pandan Tea. Most Malaysian dishes are mixed into
general Asian cookbooks: to have a rare focus on Malay traditions alone makes this a real
winner.
Oxmoor House
PO Box 11095
Des Moines, Iowa 50336-1095
www.oxmoorhouse.com
SOUTHERN LIVING WHAT'S FOR SUPPER: 30-MINUTE MEALS EVERYONE WILL
LOVE (0848736427, $19.95) provides fine 30-minute meals designed for family appreciation
and pairs color photos with quick preparation techniques for maximum effect. From Ham Steak
with Orange Glaze and Mango-Chicken Pita Sandwiches to Herb-Blend Turkey Burgers and
King Ranch Chicken, these are easy family-friendly dishes highly recommended for any general
lending library appealing to families and busy cooks looking for simple, appealing fare. Sunset's
EDIBLE GARDEN COOKBOOK: FRESH, HEALTHY COOKING FROM THE GARDEN
(0376027975, $24.95) pairs gardening and harvesting advice with over 200 recipes and basic
cooking techniques to guide on garden cooking and preserving a harvest, and is a pick for any
home and garden and cookery collection. It holds lovely color photos of plants and recipes alike,
includes nutritional details, and is arranged by garden ingredient for quick consultation during
harvest. Very highly recommended!
Lard
Editors of GRIT Magazine
Andrews McMeel Publishing
1130 Walnut St.
Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449409746, $24.99, www.andrewsmcmeel.com
LARD: THE LOST ART OF COOKING WITH YOUR GRANDMOTHER'S SECRET
INGREDIENT packs in over a hundred sweet and savory recipes and photos along with
anecdotes from cooks around the U.S. on lard, an ingredient once frowned upon but which has
been used in cooking for hundreds of years. Lard has come full-circle recently, touted by
dietitians because it contains only 54 percent of the saturated fat found in butter. This cookbook
provides a fine set of sides, main dishes, and desserts from over 100 years of GRIT Magazine, a
national bimonthly magazine celebrating the country lifestyle. Packed with flavor and advice, it's
a top recommendation for any cookbook collection!
The Art Shelf
Sculpting The Earth
Strijdom van der Merwe
Protea
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
www.internationalpubmarket.com
9781869194857, $41.95, www.amazon.com
One of the newest evolutions of human creativity is the deliberate sculpting of land, utilizing
natural elements of earth, stone, and flora, to create works of art that can be as enduring or
ephemeral as the elements that comprise them. Foremost among the new generation of land
artists is Strijdom van der Merwe. "Sculpting the Earth: Artistic Interventions with the
Landscape" is a beautifully illustrated, 200-page compendium of full color photography
showcasing his creations drawn from the last fifteen years of his work. Each photograph is
accompanied by a succinct commentary and the year in which the art was done, making
"Sculpting the Earth" a unique and highly prized addition to personal, professional, academic,
and community library 20th Contemporary Art collections.
Elevating Western American Art
Thomas Brent Smith, editor
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive
Norman, OK 73069
97809147387, $24.95, www.oupress.com
With the vast plains ahead of them, artists took it to heart and created a style all their own.
"Elevating Western American Art: Developing an Institute in the Cultural Capital of the
Rockies" analyzes the large range of art held in Denver's Art Museum providing a comprehensive
study of the art styles that have defined the American west. Presented in full color, it presents a
wide range of works in many styles from paintings to weaving to woodcuts, from the westward
expansion to today. "Elevating Western American Art" is a strong addition to art collections,
highly recommended.
Barbara Rogers: The Imperative Of Beauty
Paul Ivy, et al.
Hudson Hills Press
3556 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
www.hudsonhills.com
9781555953478, $60.00, www.amazon.com
The collaborative work of Paul Ivey (Associate Professor of Art History, University of Arizona,
Tucson), Carter Ratcliff, (Contributing Editor, 'Art in America'), and Marilyn A. Zeitlin (art
historian, writer, and curator), "Barbara Rogers: The Imperative Of Beauty" is a profusely
illustrated, 224-page compendium showcasing the life and work of American artist Barbara
Rogers whose unique style has singled her out as a major female artist. Informed and
informative, "Barbara Rogers: The Imperative Of Beauty" is a strongly recommended addition to
personal, community, and academic library Contemporary American Art reference collections
and supplemental reading lists.
Portraits of the Belle Epoque
Valeriano Bozal, et.al.
Hudson Hills Press
PO Box 205
3556 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
9781555953492, $85.00, www.hudsonhills.com
Portraits of the Belle Epoque accompanies an exhibition on the topic of portraiture in the 19th
and 20th centuries and refers to a period known as the Belle Epoque, during which time
portraiture made many influences in the art world. Life through portraits was captured in artistic
representations that moved beyond the usual singular focus to represent relationships between art
and society as well. This presentation is packed with captivating portraits of the Belle Epoque era
and offers fine accompanying facts about the evolution of art and social consciousness during
this period. No arts library should be without it!
The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
Dark Directions
Kendall R. Phillips
Southern Illinois University Press
1915 University Press Drive
SIUC Mail Code 6806
Carbondale, IL 62901
www.siupress.com
9780809330959, $29.95, www.amazon.com
Benefiting from the advances in computer generated imagery, special effects, and gifted
storytelling, the modern horror film continues to have a significant impact upon popular culture
under the administrations of gifted directors. In "Dark Directions: Romero, Craven, Carpenter,
and the Modern Horror Film", academician and author Kendall R. Phillips (Associate Dean for
Research and Graduate Studies, College of Visual and Performing Arts, Syracuse University)
provides an analytical survey of the work of three of the American film industries most
influential directors in horror films today: John Carpenter; Wes Craven; and George Romero.
Enhanced with the inclusion of a filmography, extensive footnotes, selected bibliography, and a
comprehensive index, "Dark Directions: Romero, Craven, Carpenter, and the Modern Horror
Film" is an informative, seminal study and a welcome addition to academic library Cinematic
History reference collections and supplemental reading lists.
Stolen Images
Raoul Peck
Seven Stories Press
140 Watts Street
New York, NY 10013
9781609803933, $24.95, www.sevenstories.com
The voice of much of the southern hemisphere of the world is not heard too often. "Stolen
Images" is four screenplays from Raoul Peck, a man who has studied in his native Haiti, focusing
on the issues of his home country but the issues of the African continent as well. Four of his
films, Lumumba, Haitian Corner, Lumumba: Death of a Prophet, and the Man by the Shore are
presented in complete screenplay here, offering easy access to the words and message within the
films. "Stolen Images" is a fine addition to any international film studies collection, highly
recommended.
The Last Person Who Saw Farrokh
A play by Farrokh Nazerian
Osborn Publications
PO Box 91824
Santa Barbara, CA 93190-1824
c/o The Barrett Company (publicity)
12021 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 600
Los Angeles, CA 90025
9780984938902 $16.00 www.thebarrettco.com www.thelastpersonwhosawfarrokh.com
The Last Person Who Saw Farrokh is a four-act play involving nine major characters and at least
half a dozen supporting actors. Author Farrokh Nazerian draws upon the literature of 19th
century German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche in his construction of a play that explores
humankind's search for the meaning of existence. In particular, the concept of Abarmard -
transforming oneself to the fullest of one's potential to become a Superior Man of Knowledge, as
the ancient Persian Prophet Zarathustra once encouraged people to do - is explored at length.
Ultimately, The Last Person Who Saw Farrokh is about being able to step back and realize that
there is far more to life than the mundane struggles of daily survival, and that it is possible to
change for the better and become one's own savior. The Last Person Who Saw Farrokh is a truly
captivating and thought-provoking experience. It should be noted that all performance rights to
the play are reserved; professional or amateur inquiries about performing the play should be
made to the author or publisher.
Seminar
Theresa Rebeck
Smith & Kraus Publishers
PO Box 127
Lyme NH 03768
9781575258102, $11.95, www.smithandkraus.com
Those who create have a common bout of depression. Theresa Rebeck sought to explore why in
her new play "Seminar", exploring the nature of it through laughter. A complete play in book
form with easy to follow lines and stage productions, for any fan of the theatre who wants to be
better acquainted with Rebeck's newest and critically acclaimed work, "Seminar" is a choice
pick, not to be overlooked.
Master Shots, second edition
Christopher Kenworthy
Michael Wiese
12400 Ventura Blvd. #1111
Studio City, CA 91604
9781615930876, $26.95, www.mwp.com
The second updated edition of Master Shots: 100 Advanced Camera Techniques to Get an
Expensive Look On Your Low Budget Movie provides a fine update to the original 2009
best-selling examination of filmmaking. In this updated edition every image has been digitally
remastered for clarity, with more text been added to address feedback from readers, plus
expansion of the industry's best tricks and secret techniques of professional directors. Black and
white film shots illustrate the discussions and provide specific keys to understanding the film
concepts being provided, making this a 'must' for any filmmaker's collection.
Hollywood's Copyright Wars
Peter Decherney
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street
New York, NY 10023-7015
9780231159463, $34.50, www.cup.columbia.edu
HOLLYWOOD'S COPYRIGHT WARS: FROM EDISON TO THE INTERNET begins with the
origins of copyright protection in Thomas Edison's aggressive copyright disputes, and concludes
with the latest lawsuits against YouTube, and documents the efforts of the film, TV and online
media to adapt to changing media and copyright issues. Plenty of books cover the basics of media
copyright law, but this history allows for an eye-opening look at its controversies, changes, and
the history of Hollywood's intellectual property rights in particular. Any collection strong in
Hollywood media issues needs this fine survey, which goes beyond the scenes to probe the
decisions and actions that often take place outside the actual courtroom.
The Psychology Shelf
You've Earned Your Doctorate in Psychology... Now What?
Elizabeth M. Morgan & R. Eric Landrum
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242
www.apa.org/books
9781433811456, $29.95, www.amazon.com
Sometimes it seems that getting an education is harder than getting a job. Especially in a field as
crowded as that of psychology. That's why "You've Earned Your Doctorate in Psychology . Now
What?: Securing a Job As an Academic or Professional Psychologist" is so timely and timeless.
Drawing upon their many years of experience and expertise, Elizabeth M. Morgan (Assistant
Professor of Psychology, Boise State University) and R. Eric Landrum (Professor of Psychology,
Boise State University) have effectively collaborated to compile a 244-page instruction manual to
enable newly minted psychologists to successfully transfer from graduate student academia into
employment in their chosen field. Beginning with an overview of workforce trends in the field of
psychology, "You've Earned Your Doctorate in Psychology... Now What?" goes on to cover the
importance of a well crafted cover letter; preparing a 'curriculum vitae'; the role of research and
teaching statements, as well as a teaching portfolio; securing letters of recommendation;
preparing for screening interviews; dealing with on-site interviews and job-related talks; and
being a candidate for a professional position. Enhanced with the inclusion of an appendix on
'Negotiating and Deciding Among Multiple Offers'; extensive references, and a comprehensive
index, "You've Earned Your Doctorate in Psychology... Now What?" will prove an invaluable
instruction manual and should be a part of every college and university Psychology Department
and academic library reference collections.
Emerging Methods In Psychology
Emily Abbey & Seth Surgan, editors
Transaction Publishers
Rutgers University
35 Berrue Circle
Piscataway, NJ 08854-8042
www.transactionpub.com
9781412842785, $49.95, www.amazon.com
The newest addition to Transaction Publishers' outstanding 'History and Theory of Psychology'
series, "Emerging Methods in Psychology" has as the focus of its contributors the ways in which
psychology as a discipline has created and continues to develop new methods and understandings
that move it into a set of social engineering tools expanding into new areas and multiplicities of
social knowledge. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by the team of Emily Abbey
(Assistant Professor of Developmental Psychology, Ramapo College, New Jersey), and Seth
Surgan (Assistant Professor of Psychology, Worcester State University, Massachusetts),
"Emerging Methods In Psychology" is a 214-page compendium showcasing six articles ranging
from 'Using Diaries and Self-Writings as Data in Psychological Research'; to 'A Dismantled
Jigsaw: Making Sense of the Complex Intertwinement of Theory, Phenomena, and Methods'; to
'Researching Scientific Modeling: Language, the Missing Artifact'. Of special note is 'General
Conclusions: Coming Closer to the Phenomenon: Better Understanding the Process of Human
Meaning-Making', the concluding chapter by penned by the editors themselves. Informed,
informative, thoughtful, and thought-provoking, "Emerging Methods In Psychology" is highly
recommended professional and academic library Contemporary Psychology reference collections,
as well as reading lists for psychology students and non-specialist general readers with an interest
in contemporary advances in the field of psychology.
Psychedelic Psychiatry
Erika Dyck
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College
Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R3T 2M5
9780887557330, $27.95, www.uofmpress.ca
The search for a cure sometimes leads one to try many things. "Psychedelic Psychiatry: LSD on
the Canadian Prairies" discusses the pursuits of LSD as a treatment and tool for psychiatry, as
Erika Dyck presents a fascinating history of the pursuit of medical uses for the psychedelic
substance and its impact on mental health research that can be felt today, offering an intriguing
perspective of how medicinal use of the substance may still remain. "Psychedelic Psychiatry" is a
controversial and much recommended read to consider for those intrigued with psychological
medicine.
The Science of the Art of Psychotherapy
Allan N. Schore
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue
New York NY 10110
0393706648, $45.00, www.wwnorton.com
The Science of the Art of Psychotherapy offers a companion to the author's AFFECT
DYSREGULATION AND DISORDERS OF THE SELF and AFFECT REGULATION AND
REPAIR OF THE SELF, and provides a collection of elaborations of regulation theory - all
written since 2005. It provides a model of mind/body changes in patients and therapists and
considers therapeutic expertise and how clinical experience results in a neurobiological effect on
the therapist. Chapters consider modern attachment theory, implicit processes and clinical
intuition, clinical enactments, the origins of pathological disassociation, and much more.
Depression Sourcebook, third edition
Amy L. Sutton, Editor
Omnigraphics
155 W. Congress Suite 200
Detroit, MI 48226
9780780812574, $95.00, www.omnigraphics.com
The third updated edition of DEPRESSION SOURCEBOOK provides basic information about
the symptoms and types of depressive mood disorders and surveys risk factors, depression in
different populations, treatments and new research findings, and more. It's a health survey that
includes a healthy dose of genetics, biology and discussions of environmental results of
depression and offers many strategies for managing depression, including the warning signs of
suicide and discussions of risk factors. All information has been completely updated from a range
of government agencies, nonprofits and periodicals and makes for a fine survey suitable for any
general lending library and health collections in particular.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
Boomercise
David Pargman
Fitness Information Technology
West Virginia University
262 Coliseum, WVU-PE, PO Box 6116
Morgantown, WV 26506-6116
www.fitinfotech.com
9781935412328, $16.95, www.amazon.com
In "Boomercise: Exercising as You Age", David Parman draws upon his personal experience and
professional acumen to write a 260-page instruction manual on safe and effective physical
exercises for the once 'baby boomers' who are now become senior citizens. Beginning with what
exercise is important for aging boomers, Professor Parman goes on to address issues associated
with exercise, wellness, health, and illness; the importance of good nutrition; the psychological
benefits of exercise; avoiding injury while exercising; the value of persistence; as well as
selecting and setting appropriate exercise goals. Enhanced with a glossary, references, and an
index, "Boomercise: Exercising as You Age" is thoroughly 'user friendly', practical, and even
inspiring, making it very highly recommended for personal and community library Health &
Fitness collections.
Reclaiming Your Life After Diagnosis
Kim Thiboldeaux
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
9781936661763, $16.95, www.benbellabooks.com
A cancer diagnosis can all too often seem like a death sentence. "Reclaiming Your Life After
Diagnosis" is an inspirational read for those who have recently received the horrifying diagnosis.
Kim Thiboldeaux discusses how to find one's life once more, how to embrace the cancer support
industry, and how to better meet one's needs in times of turmoil. "Reclaiming Your Life After
Diagnosis" is a must read for those who have recently received the diagnosis or for those who
know of a loved one who has.
The Insider's Guide to Egg Donation
Wendie Wilson-Miller & Erika Napoletano
Demos Medical Publishing
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
9781936303304, $16.95, www.demoshealth.com
The demands for human eggs remain quite high in the modern era. "The Insider's Guide to Egg
Donation: A Compassionate and Comprehensive Guide for All Parents-to-Be" explores the egg
donation process from the egg donors to the women who need the assistance to realize their
dreams of motherhood. From recent developments in the process, fertility treatments, and finding
the right agency, "The Insider's Guide to Egg Donation" is a strong consideration for those who
exploring their options for their family's future.
Swallow
Mary Cappello
The New Press
38 Greene Street, New York, NY 10013
9781595587770, $18.95, www.thenewpress.com
Humanity is not meant to eat many things. Humanity has sought to it to eat them anyway.
"Swallow: Foreign Bodies, Their Ingestion, Inspiration, and the Curious Doctor Who Extracted
Them" is an offbeat delve into medical history that looks into the legends of the circus and other
strange origins of things that went into the human body and were extracted in intriguing ways.
With a good message of health to add to the delve into history, "Swallow" is a strong addition to
any history collection focusing on medicine or culture, highly recommended.
Paintracking
Deborah Barrett
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616145132, $20.00, www.prometheusbooks.com
PAINTRACKING: YOUR PERSONAL GUIDE TO LIVING WELL WITH CHRONIC PAIN
provides a hands-on manual to improving life for sufferers with chronic pain, no matter what the
cause. It comes from a psychotherapist who has firsthand experience with such pain, and offers a
systematic method to help readers handle treatment options and incorporate effective approaches
into their lives for continued progress. It's actually a self-help tool in a book showing readers how
to track and interpret their pain experiences, and how to become better aware of how their body
responds to different therapies and approaches. PAINTRACKING offers hope to many and
should be a part of any general health lending library.
Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide
Rosemary Gladstar
Storey
210 Mass MoCA Way
North Adams, MA 01247
9781612120058, $14.95, www.storey.com
Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide offers a quick reference from a
respected herbalist who shows how easy it is to make natural, low-cost healing remedies. It
provides quick primer on all aspects of herbs, from growing and harvesting them to using over
thirty of the most common plants. Recipes produce everything form aloe lotion for poison ivy to
lavender-lemon balm tea for stress relief, and are paired with color photos and step-by-step
instructions for drying and preserving the herbs for use in teas, salves, tinctures, oils and even
pills.
The Science Shelf
Evolution in a Toxic World
Emily Monosson
Island Press
1718 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 300
Washington, DC 20009-1148
9781597269766, $35.00, www.islandpress.org
Biology is literally the study of life - but part of the study of life is how it dies. "Evolution in a
Toxic World: How Life Responds to Chemical Threats" discusses the toxicity that occurs in
everyday life and how biology has formed an arms race of its own, as environmental toxicologist
Emily Monosson presents a long biological history of life's responses to threats that sought to end
it. An intriguing look into the captivating and fascinating history of life and its drive to live,
"Evolution in a Toxic World" is a grade-A addition to science and biology community and
college library collections.
Planet Rock Doc
Elsa Kirsten Peters
Washington State University Press
PO Box 645910
Pullman, WA 99165-5910
9780874223101, $22.95, www.wsupress.wsu.edu
What's beneath us is millions of years of history. "Planet Rock Doc: Nuggets from Explorations
of the Natural World" is a collection of essays written by Dr. Elsa Kirsten Peters, a lifelong lover
of science who shares her love of science with her reader as she shares columns discussing many
topics within science and alongside scientific thought. "Planet Rock Doc" is a strong read for
anyone who wants a dose of scientific thought and theory to really make them think critically
about the world around us, highly recommended.
Experiment Eleven
Peter Pringle
Walker & Company
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
9780802717740, $26.00, www.walkerbooks.com
A new discovery is something that can change the world, and there are many who seek the fame
of changing the world. "Experiment Eleven: Dark Secrets Behind The Discovery of a Wonder
Drug" discusses the discovery of Streptomycin, the product of the research of Albert Schatz, who
in 1943 found an antibiotic that could battle tuberculosis, a disease that was once a death
sentence. His work was usurped by Selman Waksman, who claimed a Nobel Prize. Author Peter
Pringle hopes to bring Schatz's work to the light it deserves in the modern day. "Experiment
Eleven" is a strong pick for medicinal history collections, very much recommended reading.
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
387 Park Avenue South
New York NY 10016
www.basicbooks.com
Rafe Sagarin's LEARNING FROM THE OCTOPUS: HOW SECRETS FROM NATURE CAN
HELP US FIGHT TERRORIST ATTACKS, NATURAL DISASTERS, AND DISEASE
(9780465021833, $26.99) offers a new method of applying natural defense methods to our
security systems and contrasts nature and military defense methods. Natural adaptability is
discussed in relation to how we can protect ourselves from human hazards by learning from
nature's defense mechanisms. From successful evolutionary systems and how uncertainty is
exploited to symbiotic relationships with others to increase adaptability, this provides a fine
survey of the principles that translate from nature to security issues, making this a pick for
security and science holdings alike. John Long's DARWIN'S DEVICES: WHAT EVOLVING
ROBOTS CAN TEACH US ABOUT THE HISTORY OF LIFE AND THE FUTURE OF
TECHNOLOGY (9780465021413, $26.99) comes from a pioneer in evolutionary biorobots and
bioinspired engineering processes and explains how researchers design and evolve biorobots.
From Long's own research and knowledge of how robots evolve to how robots are learning
autonomous reactions and how they are limited, this is a fine survey that analyzes the
possibilities of biorobots designed to operate like animals, and is a fine and lively discussion for
any general science collection.
How it Began
Chris Impey
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393080025, $27.95, www.wwnorton.com
HOW IT BEGAN: A TIME-TRAVELER'S GUIDE TO THE UNIVERSE comes from a scholar
and former vice president of the American Astronomical Society, and offers a guide for lay
readers interested in an easy introduction to the latest investigations of cosmology. It provides a
fun, lively discussion of the basic concepts of astronomy and begins with the nearest celestial
bodies through the challenges of understanding time and space itself. From invisible pocket
universes to M-theory, this guide blends science reporting with history, personal anecdotes, and
thought experiments and provides a fun guide to the latest theories and discussions about the
nature of the universe. Any general lending collection will find this a fun, enlightening
survey.
Beyond Walden
Robert M. Thorson
Walker & Company
175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
0802716458, $26.00, www.walkerbooks.com
BEYOND WALDEN: THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF AMERICA'S KETTLE LAKES AND
PONDS provides a fine geological ecological and cultural history of kettle lakes around the U.S.,
and is a pick for any who would understand the ecology and development of these unique
ecosystems. Kettle lakes formed by the meltdown of blocks of glacial ice span the northern part
of the country, are self-contained, and offer unique significance and connections to America's
historical and geological past.
The Botany Shelf
Smut Fungi of the World
Kalman Vanky
APS Press
3340 Pilot Knob Road, St. Paul MN 55121
http://www.apsnet.org/apsstore/shopapspress/Pages/default.aspx
9780890543986, $499.00
SMUT FUNGI OF THE WORLD provides an outstanding key to identifying smut fungi and
packs over 3,500 monographs and studies into nearly 1,500 pages of reference material
recommended for college-level botany and science reference collections. This is a required
reference for any serious library: Dr. Kalman Vanky, has more than 50 years experience
collecting and describing smut fungi species, and updates all scientific names, synonyms, host
plant ranges, and much more. It can serve as either a standard at-a-glance reference or a school
text and it holds potential to appeal to a wide-ranging audience, from mycologists and plant
biologists to molecular biologists, students, teachers, and more. The fact that there's simply
nothing like it on the market makes this a key acquisition for any college-level or professional
holding with more than a casual interest in smut fungi.
The Native American Shelf
Iroquois Art, Power, and History
Neal B. Keating
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806138909, $55.00, www.oupress.com
Iroquois Art, Power, and History explores Iroquois visual expression in over five thousand years
of art, from the early discoveries of ancient North America to modern times. Extensive archival
research and fieldwork with Iroquois artists lends to a moving title which documents the
emerging artists and visions of the Iroquois peoples, showing how they've used visual expression
to adapt to change. Chapters trace the history of Iroquois art practices in a scholarly survey that
will interest both arts and Native American history holdings alike, seeking an ethnohistorical
approach to Iroquois developments. Keating is one of the first Iroquois studies scholar to
emphasize painting: over 100 color and black and white reproductions accompanies a
wide-ranging survey and a highly recommended pick!
The Military Shelf
The Encyclopedia Of War
Gordon Martel, editor
Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
www.wiley.com
9781405190374, $950.00, www.amazon.com
Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by academician and historian Gordon Martel
(Emeritus Professor of History at the University of Northern British Columbia and Adjunct
Professor at the University of Victoria), "The Encyclopedia Of War" is a five volume, 3142 page
descriptive history of war everywhere and anywhere around the globe, and ranging from antiquity
down to the present day. Individual entries provide detailed descriptions and analysis of military
developments, people, ideas, and technologies of conflict, as well as their social, cultural,
political, and economic impact upon their times and peoples. A masterpiece of meticulous
scholarship, superbly organized, impressively comprehensive, and thoroughly 'user friendly',
"The Encyclopedia Of War" is an essential core addition to personal, academic, and community
library Military History and World History reference collections.
One Marine's War
Gerald A. Meehl
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road
Annapolis, MD 21402
9781612510927 $34.95 www.navalinstitute.org
Widely published scientific and historical writer Gerald A. Meehl presents One Marine's War: A
Combat Interpreter's Quest for Humanity in the Pacific, the true story Robert Sheeks, an
American Marine language officer who served in the Pacific during World War II. Sheeks was
extraordinary in that he earned decorations for saving enemy lives, rather than destroying them.
Although he was familiar firsthand with the barbaric atrocities that the Japanese military inflicted
upon Chinese civilians, Sheeks learned to overcome his personal anger and dedicate himself to
preventing the unnecessary deaths among Japanese soldiers and civilians, though his service as a
combat interpreter during the fighting on the islands of Tarawa, Saipan, and Tinian. An
extensively researched, extraordinarily vivid account, One Marine's War is accessible to readers
of all backgrounds and an invaluable addition to World War II history shelves. Highly
recommended.
Ground Pounder
Gregory V. Short
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336
Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574414523 $29.95 www.unt.edu/untpress
Ground Pounder: A Marine's Journey Through South Vietnam 1968-1969 is the true-life story of
author Gregory V. Short, and his tour of duty as a U.S. Marine during the Vietnam War. Short
was only eighteen in February of 1968 (the beginning of the Tet Offensive) when he began
fighting in the war. He served as an 81mm mortarman, a Forward Observer for Hotel Company,
an infantryman with Bravo Company, and a member of the 1st Marine Air Wing in Da Nang. His
candid tales of horrifying causalities in battle, enduring the elements, and even learning about the
Vietnamese culture make for absolutely compelling reading. Ground Pounder is a "must-read"
military memoir of the Vietnam War, highly recommended.
Outlaw Platoon
Sean Parnell with John R. Bruning
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022-5299
www.williammorrow.com
9780062066398, $26.99, www.harpercollins.com
OUTLAW PLATOON: HEROES, RENEGADES, INFIDELS, AND THE BROTHERHOOD
OF AR IN AFGHANISTAN offers a powerful portrait of conflict in the mountains of
Afghanistan and provides Captain Parnell's gripping personal saga of the legendary U.S. Army's
10th Mountain Division's heroism. At the age of 24 Army Ranger Sean Parnell was named
commander of a forty-man elite infantry platoon which was known as the Outlaws, confronting
Pakistan-based insurgents in Afghanistan. They became one of the most feared American units in
the war and the account of their battles over a sixteen month period is related here in a fine
survey of military and political conflicts. Any collection strong in Afghanistan history and
military confrontation will find this a powerful memoir.
At War With PTSD
Robert N. McLay, MD., PhD
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
9781421405575, $24.95, www.press.jhu.edu
AT WAR WITH PTSD: BATTLING POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER WITH
VIRTUAL REALITY comes from a practicing psychiatrist who worked with Veterans and
civilians coping with PTSD, who became the primary investigator on treatment projects that used
computer simulation to help veterans. The author and his team believed they had found a
breakthrough treatment so in 2008 they took it to Iraq and worked with the First Marine
Expeditionary Force. Their successes and failures are documented in a fine memoir of the
psychological impact of war and its treatment, highly recommended for military and psychology
holdings alike.
Osprey
4402 - 23rd Street, Suite 219
Long Island City, NY 11101-5058
www.ospreypublishing.com
Steven Zaloga's METZ 1944: PATTON'S FORTIFIED NEMESIS (9781849085915, $19.95) is
illustrated by Steve Noon and documents General Patton's most controversial campaign: a series
of battles in 1944 along the German frontier at the city of Metz. This title offers an in-depth view
of these battles, considering the conflicts, German and Allied plans, air strikes and events that led
to bloody confrontations for all sides. Color drawings and vintage black and white photos
accompany maps and charts for an in-depth presentation perfect for any World War II collection.
John Weal's HE 111 KAMPFGESCHWADER IN THE WEST (9781849086707, $22.95) joins
others in Osprey's 'Combat Aircraft' series and discusses a plane originally designed in the
mid-1930s as a fast airliner that could become a bomber. It saw action in Spain during the civil
war and more than 700 were in service by the time Germany invaded Poland. By the fall of 1944,
it had ceased production with over 7,000 planes in production. Chapters offer a fine history of the
key German aircraft, offering a full story of its action during the war. The result is a fine addition
to any serious military or aviation library. Dmitriy Khazanov and Aleksander Medved's MIG-3
ACES OF WORLD WAR 2 (9781849084420, $22.95) provides a fine survey of an aircraft
created by Russian designers, built to satisfy a Soviet Air Force requirement for an advanced
high-altitude flyer. Many of the new MIG-3 machines were destroyed at the opening of the
Operation Barbarossa invasion in 1941 - but enough survived to produce many victories, and this
account charts these achievements and the pilots who flew the planes to victory. Clyde W.
Cocke's PASS IN REVIEW: AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF WEST POINT CADETS
1794-PRESENT (9781849085588, $29.95) pairs lovely color photos by Eilene Harkless Moore
with a fine specific history of the West Point military Academy's cadet parade. Most might think
the parade a quick event, but every movement holds historical meaning, and this history moves
from parade grounds to salutes, uniforms, hazing practices, the different soldiers who have
passed through West Point, and much more. It's a powerful survey highly recommended for any
military library. THE CIVIL WAR QUIZ BOOK (9781849086189, $9.95) is light and fun trivia
reading for any Civil War buff who wants to test a knowledge of the who, where, what, when and
how of the Civil War. Over 1,000 questions range from easy to challenging and include true or
false, multiple choice and match-ups in a recommendation for any avid Civil War history buff.
Rene Chartrand's TOMAHAWK AND MUSKET: FRENCH AND INDIAN RAIDS IN THE
OHIO VALLEY 1758 (9781849085649, $18.95) provides a fine history of General John Forbes,
who lead his army against French headquarters in the Ohio Valley. The French then launched
their own counter-raid, leading to 500 French and Canadians, backed by 500 Indian allies,
ambushing the highlanders. The back-and-forth French and Indian raids changed the history and
politics of the Ohio Valley - and this documents all attacks, counter-raids, and political tactics
and alliances in a pick recommended for any Ohio or military history holding!
The Nautical Shelf
Outfitting the Offshore Cruising Sailboat
Peter I. Berman
Paradise Cay Publications
PO Box 29
Arcata, CA 95518-0029
9780939837991, $19.95, www.paracay.com
Cruising the sea is a growing pastime for those with the ability to call a boat their own.
"Outfitting the Offshore Cruising Sailboat: Refitting Used Sailboats for Blue-Water Voyaging" is
an advice guide for those who want to equip their boats for coastal sailing for recreation and
managing such a boat wisely, trying to save money where you can while avoiding the pitfalls of
boat management. "Outfitting the Offshore Cruising Sailboat" is a strong pick for those who
enjoy the seas and want to enjoy them more efficiently.
Cornell's Ocean Atlas
Jimmy and Ivan Cornell
Cornell Sailing Ltd.
c/o Paradise Cay Publications
PO Box 29, Arcata, CA 95518-0029
9780955639654, $99.95, www.paracay.com
Cornell's Ocean Atlas: Pilot Charts for All Oceans of the World is an oversized, spiral-bound,
and comprehensive reference containing pilot charts for all oceans of the world, and is a 'must'
for any geography or nautical reference collection. The charts in this atlas are based on the latest
weather information gathered by a network of satellites over the last twenty years, and the
oversized lay-flat binding lends to their use on the ocean. A highly recommended 'must' for any
sailor or any nautical reference collection!
"Unsinkable": The Full Story of the RMS Titanic
Daniel Allen Butler
Da Capo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
44 Farnsworth Street, 3rd Floor
Boston MA 02210
9780306820984, $16.00, www.dacapopress.com
"Unsinkable": The Full Story of the RMS Titanic appears in honor of the ship's centennial and
reissues a best-selling title that charts the rise and fall of the Titanic, from her conception to her
sinking and the latest efforts to salvage her. Thirty years of research are involved in providing the
complete story of the ship's demise, using eyewitness accounts to recreate scenes on the ship and
adding a new postscript and foreword updated to include the latest theories and findings about its
history. Any collection interested in the Titanic's history will relish this revision.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Understanding Each Other After 9-11
Kirk Heriot
Lost Coast Press
155 Cypress St., Fort Bragg, CA 95437
9781882897988, $29.95, www.cypresshouse.com
With a lack of understanding comes fear. "Understanding Each Other After 9-11: What Everyone
Should Know About the Religions of the World" discusses the wide array of faiths that make up
the world and how the lack of understanding on the world stage is leading to problems in the
modern dialogue between peoples and nations. Discussing the major faiths of the world in great
detail, Dr. Kirk Heriot hopes to dispel the otherness that so often is fallen back upon in our
world. "Understanding Each Other After 9-11" is a strong pick for world culture collections and
international issues collections.
The Interfaith Alternative
Steven Greenbaum
New Society Publishers
PO Box 189
Gabriola Island, BC, Canada, V0R 1X0
9780865717053, $14.95, www.newsociety.com
Every faith has something to add to the bigger picture of spirituality in our lives. "The Interfaith
Alternative: Embracing Spiritual Diversity" discusses the unifying tents of faith, and how to
embrace all faiths and try to mend the bridges that the many faiths have with one another, all over
the world. Discussing unity and encouraging how better bonds can be formed, "The Interfaith
Alternative" is a must for those who want to mend the wounds of faith and encourage greater
community between all of mankind.
It's OK to Say "God"
Tad Armstrong
Westbow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000
Nashville, TN 37214
9781449729868 $24.95 www.westbowpress.com
Lawyer and constitutional law teacher Tad Armstrong presents It's OK to Say "God": Prelude to a
Constitutional Renaissance, a close examination of what America's Constitution and history of
judicial verdicts truly have to say about separation of church and state. Although written from a
decidedly pro-Christian viewpoint, as a direct challenge to modern attempts to strip Christianity
out of every venue of public life (to the extent of excising the words "so help us God" from one
of President Roosevelt's wartime speeches reproduced on a Washington D.C. WW II memorial),
It's OK to Say "God" is extremely thorough and meticulous in its examination of legal analysis
and court cases throughout American history in support of its assertions. "In a bit of good news,
the Supreme Court recently denied an appeal from the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals
upholding an Illinois statue that requires public schools to observe a daily period for 'silent prayer
or reflection on the anticipated activities of the day.' Kids in Illinois can pray silently together.
See, God is not forbidden in public school." It's OK to Say "God" deserves to be commended for
its thoughtful and intelligent analysis, and is highly recommended reading for any concerned
about America's ongoing culture war about where to draw the line between separation of church
and state, and unconstitutional abridgements of religious freedom.
Practical Centering
Larkin Barnett
Quest Books
c/o The Theosophical Publishing House
PO Box 270
Wheaton, IL 60189-0270
9780835609036, $15.95, www.questbooks.net
Sometimes we need to bring ourselves back down to earth. "Practical Centering: Exercises to
Energize Your Chakras for Relaxation, Vitality, and Health" is a new age discussion of
discovering greater vitality and spirit in one's life, embracing the spirit and drives within oneself,
the chakras, on a daily basis. "Practical Centering" is a straightforward and much recommended
pick for followers of new age philosophy, highly recommended.
The Final Journey, revised edition
Susan Pattinson
Torchlight Publishing
PO Box 52
Badger, CA 93603
9780981727394, $12.95, www.torchlight.com
As lives draw to a lose, staying true to the wishes of the dying proves very important. "The Final
Journey: Complete Hospice for Departing Vaishnavas" is an updated and revised edition of the
rituals and wishes of those who follow the branch of Hindu known as Vaishnavism, revering
Vishnu as one of the primary forms of God. While intended as a faithful guide to those who serve
the dying in their hour of need, "The Final Journey" also proves as a fascinating look into the
customs and rituals surrounding the faith.
Bridge of the Gods
Dr. Linda De Coff
Balboa Press
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
9781452541624, $23.99, www.balboapress.com
Building a more perfect self is the pursuit of self-improvement. "Bridge of the Gods: A
Handbook for Ascending Humanity" is an inspirational work from Reverend Dr. Linda De Coff,
advises becoming in touch with your inner God and embracing a more complete life on many
levels, pushing one to personal Godliness and granting one's own rightful heavenly domain.
"Bridge of the Gods" is a powerful read for followers of new age spirituality, much
recommended.
God and the Folly of Faith
Victor J. Stenger
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616145996, $20.00, www.prometheusbooks.com
God and the Folly of Faith: The Incompatibility of Science and Religion provides a fine historical
survey making the case that Christianity held back science for a thousand years. Chapters show
how religion and science are basically incompatible and considers the influence of organized
religion on politics and the process of science. There's a basic antiscientific attitude in the context
of religion that keeps a lid on some kinds of scientific investigations: GOD AND THE FOLLY
OF FAITH identifies these connections in a survey recommended for science and religion
holdings alike.
Why I Became An Atheist
John W. Loftus
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616145774, $21.00, www.prometheusbooks.com
WHY I BECAME AN ATHEIST: A FORMER PREACHER REJECTS CHRISTIANITY
provides a powerful survey from a once-devout evangelical Christian and an ordained minister
with three degrees who experienced a crisis of faith that turned him from Christianity to atheism.
His documentation of the process appeared in 2006, was reissued in 2008, and has been revised
and expanded in this latest new addition to address criticisms of the original work. New
arguments and references refines his ideas and beliefs in a pick recommended for religious and
secular holdings alike.
The Christian Studies Shelf
Jesus and the Demise of Death
Matthew Levering
Baylor University Press
One Bear Place, #97363
Waco, TX 76798-7363
www.baylorpress.com
9781602584471, $29.95, www.amazon.com
The cornerstone of the Christian faith is that three days after being put to death upon a cross by
Roman legionaries, Jesus of Nazareth came back to life. "Jesus and the Demise of Death:
Resurrection, Afterlife, and the Fate of the Christian" by Matthew Levering (Professor of
Theology, University of Dayton) is a 240-page compendium focusing upon what happens after
death, not only to Jesus but to every Christian. Professor Levering draws upon the writings of
Thomas Aquinas in reconstructing a Christian eschatological theology, one which is influenced
by Platonic thought and community of the faithful with respect to the inevitable passage from life
into death, and followed by the ultimate promise of eternal life after mortal death. Informed and
informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking, inspired, and inspiring, "Jesus and the Demise of
Death" is highly recommended reading for all Christians regardless of denominational affiliation
and should be considered a core contribution to academic and seminarian library Christian
Studies collections.
Gospel and Tradition
Bernard Sesboue
Convivium Press
7661 NW 68 St., Suite 108
Miami, FL 33166
www.conviviumpress.com
9781934996171, $25.95, www.amazon.com
Emeritus Professor of the Theological Faculty of the Centre de Sevres in Paris, French theologian
Bernard Sesoue has written "Gospel and Tradition", a 208-page compendium focusing upon how
Christian tradition affects and is affect by new circumstances in terms of Christian communities
understanding concerning the understanding and proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
within the context of the Roman Catholic church. A work of seminal ecclesiastical scholarship,
Professor Sesboue writes with a clarity and insight that is as inspired as it is inspiring, making
"Gospel And Tradition" strongly recommended for both the clergy and the laity.
Back to the Bible
Cuthbert Lattey, S.J.
Roman Catholic Books
PO Box 2286
Fort Collins, CO 80522-2286
www.booksforcatholics.com
9780912141411, $19.95, www.amazon.com
All recorded schisms and heresies within the two thousand year history of the Catholic Christian
community stem from misreadings and misunderstandings of Christian scriptures. Originally
published in 1944 by Jesuit scholar Cuthbert Lattey, "Back to the Bible" is a clearly written,
doctrinally sound, 128-page compendium that specifically focuses upon helping the reader how
to read and properly interpret Biblical scripture within the framework of canonical Catholic
theology. "Back To The Bible" refutes unfounded yet common place challenges to the authority
and reliability of the Gospels; resolves seeming difficulties with such Biblical accounts as Jonah
and the whale, Joshua and the sun, recorded genealogies, and other illusory discrepancies. Other
issues deftly addressed include the different 'rules' for reading the Old and New Testaments;
Church guidelines for resolving conflicts between science and scripture; key terms such as
revelation, inspiration, and inerrancy; the role of historical research in understanding scripture;
and so much more. A timeless classic, "Back To The Bible" is inspired, inspiring, informed and
informative, making it an ideal and highly recommended instructional guide for new generations
of dedicated Catholic students of the Bible.
The Apostle
John Pollock
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9780781405737, $16.99, www.davidccook.com
The story of Paul is the story that redemption is always possible. "The Apostle: A Life of Paul" is
John Pollock's discussion of Paul the apostle. Pollock writes of the life of Paul before and after
Paul's vision of the resurrected Jesus Christ, an experience that transformed him from a life of
destruction into a missionary who shaped the future of the faith. "The Apostle" is an excellent
narrative, and very much recommended reading for those who seek an engaging way to learn
more about the early converts to Christianity.
The Rule of Saint Benedict
St. Benedict of Nursia
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568
Orleans, MA 02653
9781557259738, $13.99, www.paracletepress.com
To wholly dedicate yourself to Christ is best exemplified by St. Benedict of Nursia. "The Rule of
Saint Benedict" is a study of the man who is considered the founder of Western monasticism,
discussing his work 'Rule' and how it inspires and leaves much to be considered by modern
thinkers. Insightful and strong additions to Christian history and theology collections, "The Rule
of Saint Benedict" is a scholarly and very much recommended pick for Christian Studies
collections.
Flying in the Face of Tradition
Louis DeThomasis
ACTA Publications
4848 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60640
9780879464844, $17.95, www.actapublications.com
The world grows smaller, but the Catholic Church may be slow in embracing it. "Flying in the
Face of Tradition: Listening to the Lived Experience of the Faithful" is the call from Louis
DeThomasis, as he writes of his own ideas as De LaSalle Brother for a more inviting future of
the Catholic Church in a world with members all over the world, that has clung to old ways to the
point of being harmful to the Church. Written by a devout Catholic, "Flying in the Face of
Tradition" is a fascinating and much recommended analysis of the problems in the modern
Catholic doctrine.
Give Them Christ
Stephen Seamands
InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400
Downers Grove, IL 605151426
9780830834679, $15.00, www.ivpress.com
Reaching out to people as a pastor is a struggle many continually face in today's world. "Give
Them Christ: Preaching His Incarnation, Crucifixion. Resurrection. Ascension and Return." is a
Christian and faith driven call from Stephen Seamands as he encourages other pastors to preach
on the life of Christ and the miracles that drove him to make his impact on the world and in the
future. "Give Them Christ" is a strong addition to Christian theology and pastor's reference
collections, highly recommended.
Look Up, My Soul, the Divine Promise of Hope
Gerald N. Lund
Deseret Books
PO Box 30178
Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0178
9781609070045, $25.99, www.deseretbook.com
Faith, hope, and charity are the key virtues to the Christian faith. "Look Up, My Soul, the Divine
Promise of Hope" is a Christian spiritual discussion from a Mormon perspectives. Elder Gerald
N. Lund as he discusses these three tenets of faith and how to apply them in one's everyday life
for greater success and drive to live up to the will of the savior. "Look Up, My Soul, the Divine
Promise of Hope" is a strong pick for Christian spirituality and inspiration collections.
Small Mercies
Nancy Jo Sullivan
Loyola Press
3441 North Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
9780829436952, $12.95, www.LoyolaBooks.org
The little pieces of joy we find throughout life may be subtle reminders of God's love. "Small
Mercies: Glimpses of God in Everyday Life" is an inspirational work of Christian wisdom from
Nancy Jo Sullivan as she shares her charming view of the world and where to find God's mercy
in our everyday life and treasure them where they come. "Small Mercies" is a strong addition to
Christian inspirational collections.
Same Call, Different Men
Mary L. Gautier, Paul M. Perl, & Stephen J. Fitchter
The Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500
Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814634295, $24.95, www.litpress.org
Vatican II was a revolution within Catholicism. "Same Call, Different Men: The Evolution of the
Priesthood Since Vatican II" discusses the evolution of the American priesthood since Vatican II
brought many new practices and standards to the table and changed what it meant to be a priest,
and how the many controversies within the church have been viewed and dealt with. A
fascinating exploration of modern Catholicism and what it means to its most fervent believers,
"Same Call, Different Men" is a strong pick for general Christian and religious studies
collections.
Keep Your Dream Alive
Erwin W. Lutzer
Kregel Publications
PO Box 2607
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
9780825441943, $12.99, www.kregelpublications.com
The lessons of faith can be used to push oneself forever forward. "Keep Your Dream Alive:
Lessons from the Life of Joseph" is a faithful discussion of hopes and dreams and their
relationships in the eyes of God. Erwin W. Lutzer says that many of our life's dreams can be
driven by God, and how to embrace this fact and steel yourself from sin and things that would
see you off your path. "Keep Your Dream Alive" is a strong pick for Christian and inspirational
collections.
Walking in the Dust of Rabbi Jesus
Lois Tverberg
Zondervan Publishing House
5300 Patterson Avenue, S.E.
Grand Rapids, MI 49530
9780310284208, $18.99, www.zondervan.com
Jesus was a Jew, and that basis of faith formed the foundation of his teachings. "Walking in the
Dust of Rabbi Jesus: How The Jewish Words of Jesus Can Change Your Life" discusses the
Jewish origin of Christ, analyzing the words and action of the Christ as a Jewish man and how
his teachings ring true as those of a Rabbi. Insightful and scholarly reading surrounding Christ
the man, "Walking in the Dust of Rabbi Jesus" is a strong pick for religious studies collections,
highly recommended.
Proclamation and Celebration
Susan K. Hedahl
Fortress Press
P.O. Box 1209
Minneapolis, MN 55440-1209
9780800698201, $20.00, http://fortresspress.com
Times for faith, and times for celebration, they are times that sometimes join together.
"Proclamation and Celebration: Preaching on Christmas, Easter, and Other Festivals" is a faithful
guide from Susan K. Hedahl as she advises how preachers can bring new life to these major
events that come every year, and can often seem difficult in making fulfilling and driven sermons
through them all. "Proclamation and Celebration" is a strong pick for leaders of faith looking to
gain a clearer understanding of faith in times of celebration, highly recommended.
William B. Eerdmans Publishing
2140 Oak Industrial Drive NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
www.eerdmans.com
Sergius Bulgakov's ICONS AND THE NAME OF GOD (9780802866646, $29.00) is translated
by Boris Jakim and provides a scholarly survey exploring the theology behind the Orthodox
veneration of icons and the celebration of the name of God. Two major controversies over time
accompany the author's belief that an icon stops being a religious painting and becomes a sacred
object when it is named. Essays consider the history and changing aspects of the icon provides
fine scholarly theological discussions perfect for any college-level scholarly collection. D.A.
Carson's THE INTOLERANCE OF TOLERANCE (9780802831705, $24.00) uses real-life
examples to suggest that ideas about tolerance have been shifting and that some of the new
concepts are socially dangers and actually lead to intolerance of beliefs. Christian collections will
find this a solid history of this shift in perspective, filled with discussions about morals, ethics,
good and evil, and Christian truth claims: a fine survey for any Christian collection.
The Islamic Studies Shelf
What Does Islam Mean in Today's World?
William Stoddart
World Wisdom
1501 East Hillside Drive
Bloomington, IN 47401
9781936597147, $17.95, www.worldwisdom.com
WHAT DOES ISLAM MEAN IN TODAY'S WORLD? RELIGION, POLITICS,
SPIRITUALITY argues that modern Christianity has nothing to fear from traditional Islam: the
two religions have common enemies, concerns, and are united in their opposition to immoralities
such as materialism. The general public tends to associate Islam with terrorism: this book
considers its underlying connections to Christian beliefs and examines Islam's role in modern
societies. Chapters include surveys of art and culture as they discuss modern religious bias in a
pick recommended for any spirituality and Middle East cultural collection.
The Political Science Shelf
Open Source Intelligence in a Networked World
Anthony Olcott
Continuum International Publishing Group
80 Maiden Lane, Suite 704, NY, NY 10038
www.continuumbooks.com
9781441166081, $29.95, www.amazon.com
Intelligence in the world of governments and corporations means 'information'. The kind of
information that lets you know what your opponents or competitors are up to. There are two
general categories of intelligence: overt or open, and covert or clandestine. In "Open Source
Intelligence in a Networked World" Anthony Olcott draws upon his many years of experience
and expertise as a Senior Fellow at the Center for the Study of Intelligence, as an Officer in
Residence at Georgetown University's Institute for the Study of Diplomacy, as the Director of
National Intelligence's Open Source Center, as Senior Analyst in the Emerging Media Group, and
as an Expert Analyst covering Russia and Central Asia, to provide an instructive study on how
information or intelligence can be gleaned from the profusion of public and often freely available
sources such as magazines, journals, internet web sites and databases, 'think tank' white papers,
and all manner of published books. Enhanced with an extensive bibliography and a
comprehensive index, "Open Source Intelligence in a Networked World" should be considered
mandatory reading for anyone engaged in governmental or corporate intelligence gathering, as
well as non-specialist general readers with an interest in the politics and processes of intelligence
gathering from public sources.
Hopeless
Jeffrey St. Clair & Joshua Frank
AK Press
3500 Parkdale Avenue, Building 1, #A28
Baltimore, MD 21211
9781849351102, $16.95, www.akpress.org
Barack Obama inspired voters like few presidents before him. "Hopeless: Barack Obama and the
Politics of Illusion" discusses the failure of the Obama presidency from the perspective of the
American Left as many writers such as Ralph Nader, Kevin Alexander Gray, Tariq Ali and many
others pass judgment on the failures of Obama to deliver the reforms promised and instead
continuing many of the things from the presidency of George W. Bush that were used as a call to
arms for him. "Hopeless" is an original look at the presidency of Obama from those whose
dissatisfaction with him is not usually heard.
All Politics is Religious
Rabbi Dennis S. Ross
Skylight Paths Publishing
Sunset Farms Offices, Route 4
PO Box 237, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781594733741, $18.99, www.skylightpaths.com
The core of faith rings true no matter what one's faith is, or lack there of. "All Politics is
Religious: Speak Faith to the Media, Policy Makers and Community" discusses the relationship
of faith and politics. Author and Rabbi Dennis S. Ross presents an insightful and comprehensive
breakdown of the complex relationship of faith and politics, and calls for a clearer understanding
of many hot debate issues and in spite of his faith-driven ideals of God's wisdom, reminds of the
place of separation of church and state. "All Politics is Religious" is a strong pick for any politics
and religious studies collection, highly recommended.
Showdown
David Corn
William Morrow
c/o HarperCollins
10 E. 53rd St., New York NY 10022
9780062107992, $26.99, www.harpercollins.com
SHOWDOWN: THE INSIDE STORY OF HOW OBAMA FOUGHT BACK AGAINST
BOEHNER, CANTOR, AND THE TEA PARTY offers a fine story of White House
decision-making processes based on interviews with Obama insiders and details a turbulent
period of the Obama presidency from the 2010 elections to the start of his 2012 campaign. This
insider's story follows the key dramas of the early presidency, discussing controversial political
decisions, events, and more. Any who would understand the Obama administration or the
evolution of world politics and American political parties during this period must have this!
Political Worlds of Women
Mary Hawkesworth
Westview Press
2465 Central Avenue, Boulder CO 80301
9780813344959, $42.00, www.westviewpress.com
POLITICAL WORLDS OF WOMEN: ACTIVISM, ADVOCACY AND GOVERNANCE IN
THE 21ST CENTURY provides college-level readers with a fine critical introduction to women's
political struggles in local, national and global contexts, and is a fine pick for any who would
explore the boundaries of women's political activism. It considers women's political engagement
on all levels, using case studies to document critical issues central to women's politics and
involvement, and it provides a rich series of gender and political connections perfect for any
women's history or political studies collection.
The Business Shelf
The Organizational Alignment Handbook
H. James Harrington & Frank Voehl
CRC Press
Suite 300
6000 NW Broken Sound Parkway NW
Boca Raton, FL 33487
www.crcpress.com
9781439877326, $49.95, www.amazon.com
Organization is the key to effective and profitable business ventures. Co-authored by H. James
Harrington (Chief Executive Officer for the Harrington Institute) and Frank Voehl (Director of
Process Innovation at Nova Southeastern University), "The Organizational Alignment
Handbook: A Catalyst for Performance Acceleration" is a superbly written and presented,
282-page compendium that begins with an overview of the necessity, value, and challenges of
organizational alignment; the proceeds with chapters on alignment considerations, methodology,
strategic planning, processes and networks, structure design, staffing considerations, system
design rewards, implementation -- including outcomes and outsourcing. Enhanced with
appendices providing definitions and abbreviations; some of the 1100+ improvement tools; and a
comprehensive index, "The Organizational Alignment Handbook: A Catalyst for Performance
Acceleration" is informed and informative reading that should be considered essential for anyone
in corporate management charged with organizational development responsibilities.
Entrepreneurship
Robert A. Baron
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court
Northampton, MA 01060-3815
www.e-elgar.com
9781781000397, $39.95, www.amazon.com
The foundational basis for capitalism as a viable economic system is the concept of
'entrepreneur'. An entrepreneur is a person who organizes and manages any enterprise, especially
a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk. "Entrepreneurship: An Evidence-Based
Guide" by Robert A. Baron (Spears Chair of Entrepreneurship, Spears School of Business,
Oklahoma State University) is a 240-page compendium organized into three major sections: The
Foundations of Entrepreneurship; The Practice of Entrepreneurship; and Entrepreneurship
Without Boundaries. Deftly written, superbly presented, and highly recommended for community
and academic library Business Studies collections, "Entrepreneurship: An Evidence-Based
Guide" is ideal for use as a classroom textbook or as a primer for non-specialist general readers
with an interest in entrepreneurship.
Paper Contracting
William D. Mitchell & Gary W. Moselle
Craftsman Book Company
6058 Corte del Cedro, Carlsbad, CA 92009
www.craftsman-book.com
9781572182707, $55.50, www.amazon.com
There is a reason why successful contractors have clear paper trails associated with every aspect
of their jobs. It minimizes the risk of working at a loss, suffering from negative cash flows,
avoids unwarranted claims, obviates oppressive regulation, tempers supplier disputes, insures
code compliance, and circumvents failed inspections. "Paper Contracting" covers managing
pre-construction services, reviewing plans and specks, preparing bid packages, reviewing trade
contracts, observing day-to-day construction activities, keeping owners informed, evaluating
payment requests, communicating with suppliers and vendors, dealing with order changes,
protecting against construction claims, and directing project closeout. Drawing upon their many
years of experience and expertise, construction manager William D. Mitchell and construction
contract attorney Gary Moselle have successfully and effectively collaborated in creating "Paper
Contracting: The How-To of Construction Management Contracting", a 256-page compendium
of practical, 'real world' information and instruction that will prove invaluable and to have
enduring utility as a professional reference for novice (and even experienced) contractors.
The Business Plan Workbook
Colin Barrow, Paul Barrow, Robert Brown
Kogan Page USA
1518 Walnut Street, Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19102
9780749464615, $39.95, www.koganpageusa.com
A plan and sticking to it can be the foundation for future successes. "The Business Plan
Workbook" is a discussion of business management from the combined business expertise of
three individuals, as they discuss the importance of a thorough and manageable business plan,
offering a step by step process to formulate the plan to find a purpose for one's business, taking
notes from previous success, managing the money, and knowing when to adapt and change the
plan. "The Business Plan Workbook" is a strong pick for business and management collections,
especially for those who have their own aspirations for business ownership.
Double Your Business
Lee Duncan
FT Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780273759492, $24.99, www.mcp.com
Growth is forever essential in keeping a business rolling forward. "Double Your Business: How
to Break Through the Barriers to High Growth, Turnover and Profit" is a discussion of growing
and expanding one's business potential in many proven ways, as Lee Duncan guides readers
through how to expand the possibilities of their business to expand in ways they never thought
possible. "Double Your Business" is a strong pick for those who are in charge of their own
business and want greater success and returns from it.
The 4 Disciplines of Execution
Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, & Jim Huling
The Free Press
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
9781451627053, $28.00, www.simonsays.com
How you get things done can sometimes be important as getting things done. "The 4 Disciplines
of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals" is a guide to getting things done in
business, as McChesney, Covey, and Huling combine their expertise to focus on The 4
Disciplines of Execution, ideas that lead on emphasizing the importance of an initiative,
leadership, managing the progress, and making the progress known. Battle tested and proven,
"The Disciplines of Execution" is a strong pick for any business manager or administrator
looking for a more comprehensive way of getting things done.
The Winning Factor
Peter Jensen
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
9780814431757, $24.95, www.amacombooks.org
The determination to become a gold medalist is quite something. "The Winning Factor: Inspire
Gold-Medal in Your Employees" is a business inspirational guide from Peter Jensen, a coach of
both Olympic athletes and corporations as he states that the drive for success isn't all that
different from business to business. Building around the idea of greatness in us all and how to
make it emerge for greater success in life, "The Winning Factor" is a strong pick for business
leaders who want to get something special out of themselves and much more.
Just Start
Leonard A. Schlesinger, Charles F. Kiefer, & Paul B. Brown
Harvard Business Review Press
c/o Harvard Business School Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422143612, $27.00, www.hbr.org/books
JUST START: TAKE ACTION, EMBRACE UNCERTAINTY, CREATE THE FUTURE tells
how to succeed in work and life in a world which is uncertain. The first step is to take action and
learn from there: JUST START offers research along with proven practices to provide a method
for handling uncertainty in the world, and it tells how to minimize financial risks and understand
why acting is just as important as learning. Without action, there is nothing to learn from. JUST
START provides an outstanding survey perfect for any business collection.
Reverse Innovation: Create Far From Home, Win Everywhere
Vijay Govindarajan, Chris Trimble, & Indra K. Noovi
Harvard Business Review Press
c/o Harvard Business School Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422157640, $30.00, www.hbr.org/books
Reverse Innovation: Create Far From Home, Win Everywhere explains the basics of reverse
innovation and why it is on the rise, providing a survey of world emerging markets, and how to
use reverse innovation basics to create innovations remotely. It's a pick for any business
collection catering to business managers or leaders, using triumphs from some leading companies
around the world to document the principles of reverse innovation and cases in which it does or
does not work. Any who would understanding growing international ties and how reverse
innovation works will find this a winning guide.
Project Management for Non-Project Managers
Jack Ferraro
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
9780814417362, $24.95, www.amacombooks.org
Project Management for Non-Project Managers offers a detailed survey of the functional
manager's role in project successes and addresses the 'what' and 'why' of project management
processes. From uncovering the real customer need and business use for a project to staying
focused on deliverables and accepting project risks and setbacks, this is a fine key for non-project
managers who find themselves at the helm of an important business venture. Case studies
accompany step-by-step guidelines for success in a top recommendation for any who find
themselves handling a project.
The Greater Goal
Ken Jennings and Heather Hyde
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery St., Suite 650
San Francisco CA 94104-2916
9781609942885, $16.95, www.berrettkoehler.com
THE GREATER GOAL: CONNECTING PURPOSE AND PERFORMANCE offers a survey of
putting purpose into practice and comes from years of management consulting experiences that
teach what it takes to connect purpose and performance. It's a business fable that provides a
model to guide leaders through the entire process of engaging all throughout a business structure,
and tells the story of Alex Beckley, a new company president who faces a challenge that
demands different reactions. The business fable format makes for an easy collection of facts in a
fine recommendation for any business library.
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
www.wiley.com
Marc Stickdorn and Jakob Schneider's THIS IS SERVICE DESIGN THINKING: BASICS -
TOOLS - CASES (9781118156308, $34.95) provides keys from over twenty authors from the
global service design community and introduces the basics of service design thinking to
beginners and students. Consultants, marketers and innovators offers a fine book describing an
interdisciplinary approach to designing services. It covers over twenty service design tools and
offers summaries of the disciplines involved, using case studies and walkthroughs of methods
and design techniques. From applied service design to deep service design thinking, this is a top
pick for any business looking to understand the service design profession. Jeanne Hopkins and
Jamie Turner's GO MOBILE: LOCATION-BASED MARKETING, APPS, MOBILE
OPTIMIZED AD CAMPAIGNS, 2D CODES, AND OTHER MOBILE STRATEGIES TO
GROW YOUR BUSINESS (9781118167786, $24.95) is for any business or marketing collection
interested in marketing to mobile devices. Corporations around the world are embracing mobile
marketing as a new tool that can help them connect with customers, and GO MOBILE provides
keys to setting up, launching and running a mobile marketing campaign. From using QR codes
and SMS to mobile websites, this is a powerful set of approaches to making the most of mobile
technology, and is a pick for any business marketing program interested in making the most of
iphone and other mobile marketing devices to reach new customers. Julie Clow's THE WORK
REVOLUTION: FREEDOM AND EXCELLENCE FOR ALL (9781118172056, $24.95) covers
the rules we follow in our workforce, why they no longer work, and what the alternatives are.
From rethinking the nature and process of the workplace to creating strategies for changing
existing organizations and empowering teams for greater impact, this is a top recommendation
for any business collection catering to managers with an eye on organizational change.
McGraw-Hill
c/o The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor
NY, NY 10121-2298
www.mhprofessional.com
Mark W. Schaefer's RETURN ON INFLUENCE: THE REVOLUTIONARY POWER OF
KLOUT, SOCIAL SCORING, AND INFLUENCE MARKETING (9780071791090, $25.00)
comes from a world-recognized educator and business consultant whose blog,
www.businessesGROW.com has become one of the AdAgew Top 100 blogs in the world. Here
he discusses social media influence, how to improve a social score, why Klout offers unique new
marketing opportunities to the savvy, and where to connect with the influential markets of social
space with timely, relevant and entertaining content. It's essential to understand social media
scoring, and RETURN ON INFLUENCE proves keys to making the most of this knowledge.
Shirzad Chamine's POSITIVE INTELLIGENCE: WHY ONLY 20% OF TEAMS AND
INDIVIDUALS ACHIEVE THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL (9781608322787, $23.95) is a pick for
any college-level business and economics collection and helps readers measure the percentage of
time your mind is actually working in positive versus negative directions. PQ determines how
much potential is actually achieved, and this teaches how one can assess and improve a PQ in as
little as three weeks. Tools and techniques presented here have been refined over years of
coaching hundreds of CEOs and their teams, and provides an excellent set of ideas for any who
would understand and increase their potential! Leadership expert David Casullo's LEADING
THE HIGH-ENERGY CULTURE (9780071781268, $25.00) links leadership to business
strategy and comes from nearly thirty years of experience addressing the 'energy crisis' occurring
in modern business. Leadership challenges have become magnified in importance with
workforces reduced and leaders stressed, and this book offers insights on how some companies
have excelled against all odds, through focusing energy and concentrating on economic value
involved in employee engagement. Real-world scenarios pair with proven coaching methods in a
fine survey.
The Jobs/Careers Shelf
The Job Search Solution, second edition
Tony Beshara
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway
New York, NY 10019-7420
0814417997, $16.95, www.amacombooks.org
The second updated edition of The Job Search Solution: The Ultimate System for Finding a
Great Job Now offers job seekers a system for finding a job and provides a step-by-step approach
to taking control of all phases of the process. It provides a complete job search program, proven
by over 100,000 successful outcomes in many fields, to help searchers uncover the true purpose
of an interview, handle the emotional demands of a job search, and understanding what hiring
managers think about social media and how to overcome common obstacles that affect a job
search such as extended unemployment and age. A 'must' for any business or job search
collection!
The Music Shelf
Will You Take Me As I Am
Michelle Mercer
Hal Leonard/ Backbeat Books
7777 W. Bluemound Rd.
Milwaukee, WI 53213
9781617130281 $19.99 www.backbeatbooks.com
"Will You Take Me As I Am: Joni Mitchell's Blue Period" is the partial biography of
singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell in her Blue period. A sensitive yet probing description of some of
the personal history and experiences that the artist poured into her deeply expressive music of
many sources, "Will You Take Me As I Am" is perhaps painfully honest in its portrayal of
Mitchell's intense inner journey. "Will You Take Me As I Am" contains many clues to the rich
spiritual depths which Mitchell plumbs to express and create her music. Fans, music and cultural
analysts, and anyone who has been touched by her music will appreciate "Will You Take Me As I
Am," with its black and white tender photo history and carefully balanced presentation of an
artist in transit during a period of intense creativity in her life. Lovers of the songs of Joni
Mitchell's famous Blue Period will be unable to refrain from reading this engaging work.
My Cross to Bear
Gregg Allman with Alan Light
William Morrow
c/o HarperCollins
10 East 53rd St., New York NY 10022
9780062112033, $27.99, www.harpercollins.com
MY CROSS TO BEAR offers the definitive story of a band member who for nearly fifty years
has authored some of the most recognizable songs in American rock music. His autobiography
brings to life the early days of the Allman Brothers Band and documents everything from family
conflicts to meeting girls on the road and experimenting with drugs. Also included are insights
on the music scene of the last decades, offering a fine insider's observation of its evolution and
including a powerful discussion of the impact his brother's death had on him and the entire band.
The result is a powerful survey, highly recommended for any rock music history holding.
The Travel Shelf
Brazil, third edition
Michael Sommers
Moon
1700 - 4th Street, Berkeley CA 94710
9781598808735, $21.99, www.moon.com
The third updated edition of the take-along independent traveler's tote BRAZIL comes from a
long-term resident and travel expert who introduces the country's culture, cities and attractions.
From the best time of year to visit to what to do when there, this covers everything from regional
cuisines and etiquette to locating the best transportation, restaurants and hotels in the country. A
two-week itinerary for tourists, listings of the best festivals and events in the country, a
three-week trip plan designed to make the most of Brazil's unique offerings, and more makes this
an outstanding take-along tote!
Amsterdam
Karla Zimmerman & Sarah Chandler
Lonely Planet Publications
150 Linden Street, Oakland CA 94607
9781741799033, $19.99, www.lonelyplanet.com
AMSTERDAM is packaged in a handy take-along tote and packs a pull-out map with
comprehensive listings and descriptions of top sights. As such, it's a special recommendation for
any budget-minded, independent traveler and for collections catering to them. Over three
hundred eating and drinking spots are profiled, along with nearly a hundred good places to stay at
all budget levels, 'must see' sights, and more. A top pick for any trying to plan an Amsterdam
tour!
The Sports Shelf
Complete Triathlon Guide
Human Kinetics Publishers, Inc.
PO Box 5076
Champaign, IL 61820-5076
9781450412605, $21.95, www.HumanKinetics.com
A triathlon is a major test of endurance, and just completing it can be quite difficult. "Complete
Triathlon Guide" is a guide for those who want to train for this test of fitness that combines the
endurance tests of swimming, biking, and running to get better times and complete the event
more successfully. With advice from those who have made their name with triathlon success,
"Complete Triathlon Guide" is a strong pick for fitness and sports collection, a must have for
those thinking of delving into this ultimate test of endurance.
Human Kinetics
Box 5976, Champaign, IL 61825-5076
www.humankinetics.com
Hunter Allen and Stephen S. Cheung, PhD's CUTTING-EDGE CYCLING: ADVANCED
TRAINING FOR ADVANCED CYCLISTS (0736091092, $19.95) comes from a renowned
cycling coach and a scientist who share the latest biomechanical, physiological and technical
research revolving around cycling, showing how to blend these new findings into a revised
program for cycling endurance. From the latest information on lactate threshold and recovery to
peddling techniques, this covers all aspects of conditioning for cycling competition and is a 'must'
for any sports collection appealing to competition-level cyclists. DEVELOPING ENDURANCE
(0736083278, $19.95) is edited by Ben Reuter and shows how to achieve optimal stamina to race
your best through science-based aerobic and resistance training. It presents articles by 11 top
experts in the National Strength and Coordinating Association and covers exercises, workouts,
drills and programs that all lend to developing optimum endurance. Black and white photos
blend with charts and other illustrations to cover the basics for any collection strong in sports
training and endurance.
Extra Innings
Baseball Prospectus
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
387 Park Avenue South
New York NY 10016
9780465024032, $27.99, www.basicbooks.com
EXTRA INNINGS: MORE BASEBALL BETWEEN THE NUMBERS FROM THE TEAM AT
BASEBALL PROSPECTUS is edited by Steven Goldman and provides a fine sequel to the
popular BASEBALL BETWEEN THE NUMBERS; WHY EVERYTHING YOU KNOW
ABOUT THE GAME IS WRONG. The authors used sabermetrics to examine all aspects of the
game in their original book, and this one probes further, exploring the challenges of baseball and
going beyond statistics to consider the decisions and actions that change games, teams, and
individual players. Key statistical information on players accompany discussions on everything
from steroids to measuring fielding and the effects of strikeouts in a fine exploration that should
be in any baseball collection.
Swim
Lynn Sherr
Public Affairs Books
250 West 57th Street, #1321
New York, NY 10107
9781610390460, $25.99, www.publicaffairsbooks.com
SWIM: WHY WE LOVE THE WATER celebrates the history and culture of swimming,
recounting the history of the strokes, the science of buoyancy, the history and evolution of world
swimming efforts and competition, and more. Blended into the history of swimming is the
author's own account of swimming challenges she took on during her research, blending her
adventure with an overall discussion of the impact swimming has had on our lives and why
humans swim for recreation as well as purpose. The result is a fine survey of swimming highly
recommended for any general sports collection.
Make the Pool Your Gym
Dr. Karl Knopf
Ulysses Press
Box 3440, Berkeley, CA 94703
9781612430140, $14.95, www.ulyssespress.com
MAKE THE POOL YOUR GYM: NO-IMPACT WATER WORKOUTS FOR GETTING FIT,
REBUILDING STRENGTH, AND REHABBING FROM INJURY provides a fine series of
water exercises that have been proven to build strength and improve fitness - all without the
trauma of land-based exercise efforts. It pairs photos with step-by-step instructions on how to
create a workout best suited to needs, and covers warm-up and conditioning exercises alike.
The Martial Arts Shelf
Tai Chi Fa Jin
Mantak Chia and Andrew Jan
Destiny
c/o Inner Traditions
Box 388, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594774287, $18.95, www.innertraditions.com
Tai Chi Fa Jin presents Fa Jin, an advanced Yang style of Tai Chi, and is a pick for any martial
arts collection. It presents the teachings of various Taoist masters and discusses the yin and yang
of Tai Chi, explaining Fa Jin techniques and how to apply them by resisting forces through
redirection and yielding. The authors also apply breathing and stretching exercises designed to
reinforce meditation energetic exercises, and provide a wealth of tips for linking Fa Jin practices
to traditional better-known Tai Chi movements and approaches. Any martial arts collection
strong in Tai Chi needs this!
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers Of The Future: Volume 28
K. D. Wentworth, editor
Galaxy Press
7051 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 200
Hollywood, CA 90028
www.galaxypress.com
9781619868766, $7.99, www.amazon.com
A welcome and much appreciated annual science fiction publishing event, 'Writers of the Future'
showcases twelve of the best and the brightest to put pen to paper during the preceding year.
Beginning with an informed and informative introduction by the late K. D. Wentworth, this 28th
volume presents original contributions by Marie Croake (Of Woven Wood); William Ledbetter
(The Rings of Mars); David Carani (The Paradise Aperture); Roy Hubbard (Fast Draw); M. O.
Muriel (The Siren); William Mitchell (Contact Authority);Nick T. Chan (The Command for
Love); Harry Lang (My Name is Angela); Jacob A. Boyd (Lost Pine); Corry L. Lee (Shutdown);
Tom Doyle (While Ireland Holds These Graves); Gerald Warfield (The Poly Islands); Scott T.
Barnes (Insect Sculptor). Of special note are the insightful comments by Kristine Kathryn Rusch
(The Importance of Short Fiction); Shaun Tan (Advice for a New Illustrator); and that master
storyteller himself, L. Ron Hubbard (Story Vitality). A 608-page compendium occasionally
illustrated in black-and-white, "L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers Of The Future: Volume 28" is a
highly recommended and thoroughly entertaining read, making it an enduringly popular addition
to personal, school, and community library Science Fiction collections.
Prophet
R. J. Larson
Bethany House Publishers
c/o Baker Publishing Group
11400 Hampshire Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55438
9780764209710, $14.99, www.bethanyhouse.com
The burden of the prophet is not a mantle taken on lightly. "Prophet" is a novel from R. J. Larson
following young Ela, as the Infinite, the creator of her people of Parne, has charged her with
becoming the first female prophet at the age of seventeen. But the future of a prophet is not one
that comes easily, as Prophets face a tough life and must surrender their wills and desires to the
Infinite. "Prophet" is an intriguing twist of faith in fantasy, very much recommended.
Lance of Earth and Sky
Erin Hoffman
Pyr
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, New York 14228-2197
9781616146153, $17.95, www.pyrsf.com
LANCE OF EARTH AND SKY is Book Two of the 'Chaos Knight' series and provides a fine
sequel to Sword of Fire and Sea, recommended especially for prior fans. After decades of peace
war is erupting due to shifting technologies while Vidarian is called into battle by a desperate
young emperor and must fight multiple battles on many levels. Politics and epic battle rage
throughout the novel and make this a particularly satisfying pick for any military science fiction
or fantasy holding.
Ace Books
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson St.
New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com
Patricia Briggs's FAIR GAME (9780441020034, $26.95) is Book Three of the Alpha & Omega
series, recommended for any collection strong in urban fantasy and the prior releases of Patricia
Briggs' exciting series, set in alternate Tri-Cities, Washington. In this world werewolves,
vampires and others live among ordinary people and one Anna Latham and Charles Cornick
return to the limelight in a scenario where Anna and Charles find themselves helping investigate
a serial killer case where all of the victims were werewolves. Someone is targeting their kind in a
dangerous game filled with captivating twists and turns of plot. Stephen Wallenfels' POD
(9781937009430, $7.99) provides a griping account of the arrival of aliens whose spheres fill the
skies and kill anyone under them. Survivors of the initial invasion remain indoors, cut off from
all communications, and Josh is one of these: trapped at home with a father whose sanity is
beginning to erode. Megs is also struggling for survival in a hotel parking garage. Both of them
face an alien enemy ruthless and unknown - and both of them also will face impossible choices in
their struggle for survival, documented in a gripping saga impossible to put down and
recommended for any science fiction collection.
Chrysanthe
Yves Meynard
Tor Books
c/o Tor/Forge
175 - 5th Avenue
New York NY 10010
0765330261, $15.99, www.tor-forge.com
CHRYSANTHE provides a fine fantasy in a complex story of Christine, a princess in the world
of Chrysanthe who is kidnapped as a small child by a magician and is exiled in a Made World
akin to ours. Confused, she has few memories of her childhood and an imaginary friend that
holds the key to her real identity - and as she matures she begins to question her past. Nearly an
adult, a young man approaches her with a proposition - one which may return her to her magical
home and bring a new war in the process. Courage, battles and wisdom mark a strong female
protagonist and a fast-paced plot filled with exciting twists and turns, recommended for any
fantasy collection.
The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf
Zombie Parents
Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman
Andrews & McMeel
1130 Walnut Street
Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449409739 $12.99 www.andrewsmcmeel.com
Zombie Parents and Other Hopes For a More Perfect World is the latest anthology of "Zits"
newspaper cartoons (and the fifteenth "Zits Sketchbook" collection featuring a handful of rough
sketch originals of certain comics interspersed with the funnies). "Zits" chronicles the proud(?)
parents of teenager Jeremy, as well as his friends and his girlfriend, and gets its zeitgeist from
humor that reflects the times - from Jeremy's cell phone text obsessions to the fallout when his
parents stumble across the "full access" version of Jeremy's Facebook page on his unattended
laptop. "'Jeremy got a traffic ticket?? I didn't know he liked jazz! Who is that girl he's kissing?
We didn't know any of this!' 'Reading your kid's facebook page is like meeting him for the first
time all over again.' 'Who gave him permission to have a life?'" The titular Zombie Parents strips
are especially hilarious, showing Jeremy's imaginative speculations of how his life might be
better if his parents were flesh-eating undead monstrosities - at least there would be no pressure
to be home at mealtime! Zombie Parents is in black-and-white with color Sunday strips, and its
off-the-wall art style hits just the right blend between caricature and pure fancy. Best of all,
Zombie Parents is just plain funny from cover to cover, and highly recommended.
Atomic Comics
Ferenc Morton Szasz
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166
Reno, NV, 89557-0166
www.unpress.nevada.edu
9780874178746, $34.95, www.amazon.com
"Atomic Comics: Cartoonists Confront the Nuclear World" by Ferenc Morton Szasz (Regents
Professor of History, University of New Mexico), is an descriptive analysis and history of the
impact the 'atomic age' has had upon popular culture in terms of comic books, newspaper comic
strips, and cartoons. One of the benefits of this popularizing media was to inform the general
public of many of the political, economic, scientific, and potential hazards issues arising from
advances in nuclear technologies. The use of the 'superhero' and science fiction characters
beginning with Buck Rogers and Flash Gorden, aided in the development of a nuclear age
vocabulary and the popularizing of the positive potential of nuclear energy. A highly
recommended addition to personal reading lists, as well as community and academic library 20th
Century American History collections "Atomic Comics: Cartoonists Confront the Nuclear
World" is a seminal work identifying the perspective that cartoonists brought to nuclear issues
that was to prove enduringly influential upon public opinion -- an influence that continues be felt
to this very day.
The Mighty Alice
Richard Thompson
Andrews & McMeel
1130 Walnut Street
Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449410223, $12.99, www.andrewsmcmeel.com
Bringing back charm and mischievousness to the funny pages, "The Mighty Alice" is a
compilation from Richard Thompson, multi-award winning cartoonist. His work Cul De Sac,
following the titular Alice and her family as they the challenges of everyday life and the curious
ideals of young Alice. "The Mighty Alice" is presented in full color, and a treat for those looking
for a new cartoon strip that evokes the memories of Calvin and Hobbes.
Only Skin
Sean Ford
Secret Acres
75-22 37th Ave., #452
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
9780983166287 $21.95 www.secretacres.com
Only Skin: New Tales of the Slow Apocalypse gathers the previously serialized black-and-white
comic epic by Sean Ford into a single graphic novel - with the addition of several dozen new
pages, and an improved ending! A dark portrayal of rural America, seen from the perspective of
orphaned siblings, Only Skin details the problems of people struggling to survive amid poverty
and local corruption. Something is causing townspeople to disappear into the woods without a
trace. But which is more evil - the lurking horror of ghosts, the hypocrisy of seemingly ordinary
people who sell each other out for personal gain, or the murderous impulses of human hearts?
Grim and suspenseful, Only Skin is as memorable as it is unsettling, and highly recommended
for connoisseurs of quality independent graphic novels.
Frazer Irving
Nathan Wilson and Eric Nolen-Weathington
TwoMorrows Publishing
10407 Bedfordtown Dr.
Raleigh NC 27614
9781605490397, $15.95, www.twomorrows.com
MODERN MASTERS VOLUME TWENTY-SIX: FRAZER IRVING chronicles a fine artist
best known for his work on DC Comics' titles Batman and Xombi. He also was the co-creator of
the steampunk Gutsville, is a musician in the band Atom Heart Brothers, and here provides
insights into his works and influences. Black and white images from his digital and artistic
renderings accompany in-depth interviews covering the art he penciled for a range of plots and
characters, making this a recommendation for any interested in comic book illustration and its
evolution.
James Bond Omnibus Volume 003
Ian Fleming, James Lawrence, & Yaroslav Horak
Titan Books
144 Southwark Street, London SE1 OUP, UK
9780857685889, $19.95, www.titanbooks.com
James Bond Omnibus Volume 003 presents seven of Bond's dangerous missions and is the third
installment in the classic 007 comic strip adventure, recommended for Bond and graphic novel
fans alike. This gathers the first period of writer Jim Lawrence's stories and provides classic
adventures, including Kingsley Amis' controversial post-Fleming story Colonel Sun. It's a
powerful collection highly recommended for any fan of Bond's action-packed adventures.
The Biography Shelf
Martyr To Freedom, second edition
Zachary J. Martin
Hamilton Books
c/o Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group
4501 Forbes Blvd., Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
www.rlpgbooks.com
9780761854227, $21.99, www.amazon.com
A 19th century Atlantic coastal trader and abolitionist, Captain Daniel Drayton attempted to
transport seventy-seven fugitive slaves to freedom in the North aboard his ship the Pearl.
Arriving in New Bedford, Massachusetts in the summer of 1857, Captain Drayton committed
suicide. Now in an updated second edition, "Martyr to Freedom: The Life and Death of Captain
Daniel Drayton" by Zachary J. Martin (Adjunct Professor of History, Roger Williams University,
Salem State University, and Bristol Community College), seeks to reconstruct the life and the
reasons for his death of this obscure but remarkable man. A work of seminal and meticulous
scholarship, "Martyr To Freedom" is informed, informative, and a highly recommended
contribution to academic library 19th Century American History and American Biography
collections.
Thea's Song
Charlene Smith & John Feister
Orbis Books
PO Box 308
Maryknoll, NY 10545-0308
9781570759628, $18.00, www.orbisbooks.com
The battle for equality is fought on many fronts. "Thea's Song: The Life of Thea Bowman" tells
the story of the civil rights era through faithful Thea Bowman, who joined an all white convent as
a black woman and sought to bring about equality and fight prejudice in the process, before
facing an early death due to cancer's power. "Thea's Song" is a strong pick for biography
collections focusing on the Civil Rights era and those who tried to make a difference.
William D. Pawley
Anthony R. Carrozza
Potomac Books, Inc.
22841 Quicksilver Drive
Dulles, VA 20166-2012
9781597977142, $34.95, www.potomacbooksinc.com
Some men don't accept excellence in merely a single field. "William D. Pawley: The
Extraordinary Life of the Adventurer, Entrepreneur, and Diplomat Who Cofounded the Flying
Tigers" is a biography of William Pawley, who through his own fortune made himself a
millionaire and from that wealth brought many changes in the world. Bringing fighter pilots to
China through a volunteer program, he also served a diplomat to South America, and participated
in the Cold War in many unique ways. "William D. Pawley" is a fascinating life story of a unique
individual that has earned his own little bit in history, very much recommended reading.
Hitler
A.N. Wilson
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
387 Park Avenue South
New York NY 10016
9780465031283, $24.99, www.basicbooks.com
HITLER is a fine historical biography written by a biographer who has won prestigious awards
for his works, and whose discussion of Hitler offers perspectives unseen elsewhere. It reassesses
the reason for Hitler's sudden rise to power and blends psychological insights with political and
social analysis to provide a well-rounded survey asserting Hitler is a mystery with different sides
to his nature. Chapters provide a thorough consideration of his childhood to his adulthood, using
primary documents from the times paired with his own analysis, making for a powerful survey
unparalleled in scope and depth, and recommended for any World War II, biography or world
history holding.
Dropped Names
Frank langella
Harper
c/o HarperCollins
10 E. 53rd St.
New York NY 10022-5299
9780062094476, $25.99, www.harpercollins.com
DROPPED NAMES; FAMOUS MEN AND WOMEN AS I KNEW THEM offers a unique
memoir of the author's encounters with famous personalities ranging from movie stars and
presidents to members of the social upper crust, and offers a fine account from a professional
actor who has encountered these personalities over a period of five decades. It's a special pick for
any interested in social and literary figureheads, offering an account of many different encounters
with the rich and famous and adding the backdrop of Frank Langella's personal growth from age
fifteen to modern times. The lively writing and outstanding presentation make this a pick for
general-interest collections.
Triggered
Fletcher Worthmann
Thomas Dunne Books
c/o St. Martin's Press
175 - 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10010-7848
9780312622107, $24.99, www.thomasdunnebooks.com
TRIGGERED: A MEMOIR OF OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER offers insights into
the author's struggles with mental illness and considers his cultural involvements, struggles with
religious terror and unhelpful psychologists, and the eventual diagnosis of OCD that was to help
him cope. His insights into OCD and religion, sex, culture, and struggles with everyday life
makes for a powerful choice for any general lending library's health or autobiography section,
offering insights into the process of OCD thinking that are rarely available elsewhere.
Bay and Her Boys
Bay Buchanan
Da Capo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
44 Farnsworth St., 3rd Floor, Boston MA 02210
9780738215136, $25.00, www.dacapopress.com
BAY AND HER BOYS: UNEXPECTED LESSONS I LEARNED AS A (SINGLE) MOM tells
of a devastating divorce during which the pregnant Bay becomes a working mother caring for
three boys alone. Her parenting successes and mistakes alike are shared along with the eight
tried-and-tested rules of parenting which can serve as a guide to all mothers. Bay's autobiography
is packed with striking moments and discussions of family values, a mother's role, and how
mothers can have family and career options alike, with a little support. It's a recommendation for
autobiography and parenting collections alike.
The Social Issues Shelf
Civic Empowerment In An Age Of Corporate Greed
Edward C. Lorenz
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25
East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
www.msupress.msu.edu
9781611860252, $39.95, www.amazon.com
As evidenced by the increasing 99% movement, we are living in a new and corporate age of
Robber Barron Capitalism. That's why "Civic Empowerment In An Age Of Corporate Greed" by
Edward C. Lorenz (Reid-Knox Professor of History, Professor of Political Science, and Director
of the Public Affairs Institute, Alma College, Michigan) offers such an important and timely
descriptive and analytical examination of civic engagement with respect to the kind of unethical
and even criminal corporate activity that has resulted in the pollution, contamination, and
economic disaster on local, regional, and national scales. Using 'real world' examples arising
from seven contaminated Superfund sites, food contamination scandals, financial manipulation
debacles, and the organized public efforts to compel corporate interests to reform, readers will
find Professor Lorenz's "Civic Empowerment In An Age Of Corporate Greed" to be informed,
informative, a model of seminal research, and an instructive guide for both public and private
reform efforts -- including an applicable 'blueprint' for communities having to deal with
governmental indifference and corporate obfuscation. Thoroughly 'reader friendly' from
beginning to end, "Civic Empowerment In An Age Of Corporate Greed" is highly recommended
for community and academic library collections, as well as to the attention of non-specialist
general readers with an interest in curbing corporate corruption in our politics, in our
environment, and in our economy.
Harvest the Wind
Philip Warburg
Beacon Press
25 Beacon Street
Boston, MA 02108-2892
9780807001073, $27.95, www.beacon.org
Wind blows all over the planet every day, and embracing that energy could hold much potential.
"Harvest the Wind: America's Journey to Jobs, Energy Independence, and Climate Stability"
explores the potential of wind power, using the windy plains that blow over the Midwest and the
potential of harvesting that energy for a greater future for America, freeing it of their dependence
on foreign oil. Bringing a realistic view of wind's future, its opposition, and the rough road it has
ahead to make a difference, "Harvest the Wind" is a fine read on the potential of wind power,
very much recommended.
Strap Hanger
Taras Grescoe
Times Books
c/o Henry Holt & Company
175 - 5th Avenue, Suite 400
New York, NY 10010-7725
9780805091731, $25.00, www.henryholt.com
Public transportation fills a need for many. "Strap Hanger: Saving Our Cities and Ourselves from
the Automobile" discusses the place of public transportation and the problems it faces in modern
America. Studying the public transportation system in various massive cities all over the world,
and seeking to convey an understanding for the future of public transportation and the benefits it
can bring to society. "Strap Hanger" is a strong addition to community library social issues
collection.
Westview Press
2465 Central Avenue, Boulder CO 80301
www.westviewpress.com
Melvin I. Urofsky's SUPREME DECISIONS: GREAT CONSTITUTIONAL CASES AND
THEIR IMPACT (9780813347356, $28.00) gathers stories of major Supreme Court cases and
their impact on American constitutional law, and provides a fine key documenting critical
moments in the American social and legal system. Over 200 years of Supreme Court decisions
are covered in a fine collection of cases documenting political, social and cultural changes
throughout the country. What makes this a great pick is its discriminating choice of the top cases
which made a lasting impact on American society and culture. Any legal or social issues
collection at the college level will find this a worthy addition! Angela Hattery and Earl Smith's
THE SOCIAL DYNAMICS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE (9780813344638, $55.00) provides a fine
exploration of family violence and considers the cultural, social and institutional causes of such
violence. From child abuse to partner violence and elder abuse, this offers college-level students
a basic course on how social inequality contributes to violent family settings, teaching students
about preventative measures and social policy alike. Coverage of same-sex and multicultural
couples are included, along with theory and methods. SOCIAL PROBLEMS by Sara Towe
Horsfall (9780813345079, $37.00) offers college-level collections a fine consideration of social
problems and how advocacy groups work towards solutions to them. From a history of social
problems and how they are handled to explaining what social problems are and the roles of
advocate groups, this identifies issues, offers insights on traditional and alternative
problem-solving methods, and discusses potential solutions to these problems. A fine guide for
any college-level sociology course.
Being Global
Angel Cabrera and Gregory Unruh
Harvard Business Review Press
c/o Harvard Business School Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422183229, $30.00, www.hbr.org/books
BEING GLOBAL: HOW TO THINK, ACT, AND LEAD IN A TRANSFORMED WORLD
discusses what it takes to lead a global business, and is a key acquisition not just for college-level
business libraries, but for those strong in social issues and global economics and politics as well.
It draws on the author's extensive experience and research they conducted at the Thunderbird
School of Global Management, and offers a new definition of global leadership and the
challenges of staying successful in an international arena. BEING GLOBAL is written for all
kinds of business leaders and deserves a place in social science and business collections
alike.
Funding the Enemy
Douglas A. Wissing
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616146030, $25.00, www.prometheusbooks.com
FUNDING THE ENEMY: HOW US TAXPAYERS BANKROLL THE TALIBAN offers a fine
social and political narrative based on the author's research and fieldwork in Afghanistan's war
zones, and uses the voices of hundreds of combat soldiers, ordinary Afghans, private contractors
and more to detail how U.S. taxpayer dollars have been flowing into the Taliban's banks due to
mismanaged US development and counterinsurgency programs. This is the first book to
chronicle the dangerous actions of American policymakers and Afghan politicians and the
Taliban, and is a 'must' for any who would understand the effects of policies overseas.
American Sheikhs
Brian VanDeMark
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616144760, $25.00, www.prometheusbooks.com
AMERICAN SHEIKHS: TWO FAMILIES, FOUR GENERATIONS, AND THE STORY OF
AMERICA'S INFLUENCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST deserves ongoing recommendation as a
fine story of two families who built a great institution in the Middle East and fostered it for
almost 150 years. What they built was the American University of Beirut and what began as a
small missionary school grew to become the most influential college in the Middle East. This is a
powerful account of its history and tells how two families both succeeded and failed in their
attempts to influence the Middle East. Any collection strong in Middle East history needs
this!
Merchants of Despair
Robert Zubrin
New Atlantis Books
c/o Encounter Books
900 Broadway, Suite 601
New York NY 10003-1239
9781594034763, $25.95, www.encounterbooks.com
MERCHANTS OF DESPAIR: RADICAL ENVIRONMENTALISTS, CRIMINAL
PSEUDO-SCIENTISTS, AND THE FATAL CULT OF ANTIHUMANISM is a pick for
college-level political science and human rights collections alike, and trades the propaganda
promoting the idea that human begins are a cancer on the planet, endangering the world with its
destructive actions. It traces the history of the idea, its dangerous consequences, and the chief
proponents of antihumanism over the last two centuries, pairing history with social and political
policy arguments to scientifically refute the movement's pseudo-scientific claims. A fine survey
for any political and social issues holding.
The Economic Studies Shelf
A Short History Of Ethics And Economics: The Greeks
James E. Alvey
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court
Northampton, MA 01060-3815
www.e-elgar.com
9781847202017, $99.95, www.amazon.com
Economic activities without an ethical framework lead to such fiscal disasters as almost brought
down the world's economy in 2008 -- and continue to threaten the financial stability of America
and of the European Union. That's why "A Short History Of Ethics And Economics: The Greeks"
by James E. Alvey (Senior Lecturer, Massey University, New Zealand, and Research Fellow,
International Christian university, Japan) is so timely and so timeless. A 200-page compendium
of meticulous scholarship which lays out the emergence and decline of the ethical tradition of
economics and framing the crisis of modern economics, Professor Alvey showcases the thought
and teaching of four Greek philosophers of antiquity: Socrates, Xenophon, Plato, and Aristotle.
Of special note is the opening chapters providing a thoughtful introduction to the political
economy of Ancient Greece and the concluding chapter featuring Professor Alvey's insightful
conclusions. Enhanced with extensive references and a comprehensive index, "A Short History
Of Ethics And Economics: The Greeks" is informed, informative, and highly recommended for
professional and academic library Ethical Studies and History of Economics reference collections
and supplemental reading lists.
99 to 1
Chuck Collins
Berrett-Koehler Publishers Inc.
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650
San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781609945923, $14.95, www.bkconnection.com
Wealth inequality has far more impact than most know. "99 to 1: How Wealth Inequality is
Wrecking the World and What We Can Do About It" analyzes the wide gap in wealth in the
world and the damage it is causing to society. Advising on what can be done to create a more
balanced economic system that offers something for everyone, "99 to 1" is an intriguing break
down of current economic issues and the solution to them that may be possible to be
reached.
Appalachian Legacy
James P. Ziliak, editor
Brookings Institution Press
1775 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036-2188
9780815722144, $34.95, www.brookings.edu
The war on poverty is one with mixed results indeed. "Appalachian Legacy: Economic
Opportunity After the War on Poverty" discusses the impact of the declaration of the war on
poverty in 1964 by Lyndon Baines Johnson. Many policies have been passed, and many thinkers
come together under editor James P. Ziliak discussing the progress that resides there and the
problems that remain there in the future. Discussing why Appalachia remains a strong focus of
study for the region, "Appalachian Legacy" is a scholarly discussion of these vital issues and their
impact on the future of the region as well as America as a whole.
The New Depression
Richard Duncan
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118157794, $29.95, www.wiley.com
THE NEW DEPRESSION: THE BREAKDOWN OF THE PAPER MONEY ECONOMY
provides an analytical framework that explains all aspects of the current global economic crisis,
explaining all aspects of the crisis, government responses, and what is likely to happen next.
Chapters consider the evolution of the world economic system, the rise of credit growth, and why
overall creditworthiness at both the governmental and private levels is eroding, with discussion
of how a potential new depression exists. Chapters go beyond charting the problems to consider
what must be done to prevent them. Highly recommended for any economics collection.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Wild Ink
Victoria Hanley
Prufrock Press
PO Box 8813, Waco, TX 76714-8813
www.prufrock.com
9781593638641, $17.95, www.amazon.com
The young adult market is a primary source of revenue for the publishing industry and requires
aspiring authors creating fiction and non-fiction works for a YA audience to be able
communicate and connect with their audience if their books are to be successful in a highly
competitive marketplace that includes school and community librarians, booksellers, and the
adolescent to young adult reading public. "Wild Ink: Success Secrets to Writing and Publishing
for the Young Adult Market" by successful YA novelist Victoria Hanley is a 302-page
instruction manual that will prove indispensable to writers as she descriptively discusses the
special needs of the YA genre, tips on staying inspired when writing for this specialized
audience, as well as avoiding common mistakes when writing for teens. Of special note are the
provision of writing exercises to hone skills necessary to capture the interest of teen readers,
interviews with YA authors, bloggers, editors, and agents within the YA genre, and self-editing
techniques appropriate for the YA genre. Of special note is Victoria Hanley's observations on
dealing with rejection and time constraints. Informed, practical, and offering a wealth of superbly
presented constructive information, "Wild Ink" should be considered mandatory reading for
anyone seeking to write for a YA readership.
Book Formatting for Self-Publishers
Jeannette Green
Diamond Press
3400 Pegasus Drive, Box 80043
Bakersfield, CA 93380
www.diamondpresspublishing.com
9780984404476, $19.97 print, $9.97 ebook
Book Formatting for Self-Publishers is quite simply a 'must' for any collection strong in
self-publishing techniques. It comes from an author who professionally prepares clients' books
and ebook files for publication and shares her techniques of professionally publishing a book in
either print or ebook formats. The directions are presented in an easy step-by-step coverage that
anyone can readily absorb, with illustrations making the entire process even simpler. From using
Microsoft Word to format to using it to create ebooks for Kindle, NOOK and Smashwords, this
is a 'must' for any aspiring self-publisher and for collections catering to them.
The Technology Shelf
Making Things See
Greg Borenstein
O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein, Hwy N.
Sebastopol, CA 95472-2811
9781449307073, $39.99, www.oreilly.com
MAKING THINGS SEE: LEARN BY DISCOVERY provides a detailed, hands-on guide to
building applications using Microsoft's Kinect, the motion-sensing device that enables computers
to see. While this could have been featured in our 'Computer Shelf' section, it's reviewed here for
its fine applications for engineers interested in robotics, offering a basic instruction for using
software to create fun 3D interactions, using 3D scanning for custom fabrication projects, and
more. A range of projects can be made using inexpensive off-the-shelf components in a title
packed with fun projects and tools for making and understanding models using basic design and
fabrication techniques and Kinect.
The Judaic Studies Shelf
The Biblical Outlook
Rabbi Shlomo Polachek
Urim Publications & Penina Press
c/o Lambda Publishers
527 Empire Blvd., Brooklyn, NY 11225
9781936068272, $29.95, www.Urimpublications.com
Jewish philosophy has always been founded in question and searching for answers. "The Biblical
Outlook: Topics in Jewish Philosophy" is a collection of musings on modern Judaism and its
philosophy and theology from Rabbi Shlomo Polachek, as he discusses his thoughts drawn from
the holy books of Judaism, discussing what God seeks out of man, his presence and intervention
in life, and where humanity's ultimate fate lies in the future. Expertly translated from the original
Hebrew by Rabbi Shmuel Himelstein, "The Biblical Outlook" is a strong addition to any Judaic
studies collection focusing on philosophy and theology.
The Jewish Gospels
Daniel Boyarin
New Press
38 Greene St., 4th Floor
New York NY 10013
9781595584687, $21.95, www.thenewpress.com
THE JEWISH GOSPELS; THE STORY OF THE JEWISH CHRIST provides a fine survey
considering the boundaries between Judaism and Christianity, and comes from a scholar who
challenges our modern understanding of Jesus and Judaism. It presents a new image of a Jewish
Christ who kept kosher and defended the Torah, and provides a fine new framework for
considering Jesus and his relationship to both Christianity and Judaism, using various texts to
consider early ideas about Jesus and Judaism.
The International Studies Shelf
Cultivating the Colonies
Christina Folke Ax, et.al., Editors
Ohio University Press
19 Circle Drive, the Ridges, 1 Ohio University
Athens OH 45701
9780896802827, $29.95, www.ohioswallow.com
Cultivating the Colonies: Colonial States and Their Environmental Legacies gathers college-level
essays examining the relationship between colonial power and nature, and exploring how
colonial governments cultivated ideas about nature and native peoples, then put them into action
through policies in the course of building an empire. Eleven essays cover different colonial
governments of the world and discuss different policies and practices, from animal husbandry in
the Philippines to indigenous medicine in India. The focus on the impact of colonial ideas on
local nature and culture makes for a powerful survey of the evolving colonial world, and a pick
for any history or world social issues holding.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
The Birdkeepers' Guides: Parrotlets
Nikki Moustaki
T.F.H. Publications
1 TFH Plaza, Third & Union Avenue
Neptune City, NJ 07753
9780793814817 $12.95 www.tfh.com
Beautifully illustrated with full-color photography on almost every page, The Birdkeepers'
Guides: Parrotlets lives up to its title with no-nonsense, user-friendly instructions. Parrotlets
(a.k.a. "pocket parrots") are small, gregarious bird species that have a great deal in common with
parrots but tend to be roughly the size of a budgie. Since they are social birds, they can be quite
affectionate to their human owners, but also require a sizeable amount of attention and
maintenance. "If you can't pay much attention to your parrotlet, consider getting him or her a
birdy companion - only another parrotlet - do not try to mix this bird with any non-parrotlet
species or you may come home to find that one of your birds has flown to heaven, to put it
nicely." Chapters cover proper feeding and grooming of parrotlets, keeping them healthy, and
even training them! The Birdkeepers' Guides: Parrotlets is an absolute must-have for anyone
considering owning this tiny, colorful birds as pets; even bird lovers who are not looking for a
new pet will find its gorgeous photography a joy to page through. Highly recommended.
The Rabbit Book
Samantha Johnson
Voyageur Press
c/o Quayside Publishing Group
400 First Avenue North, Suite 300
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9780760339473, $17.99, www.voyageurpress.com
Cute, fuzzy, and occasionally tasty. "The Rabbit Book: A Guide to Raising and Showing
Rabbits" is a guide for those who want to know everything they need to know about keeping and
raising rabbits, whether they be for pets, show animals, or meat. From keeping a good
environment for the creature, health concerns, and much more, "The Rabbit Book" is an excellent
resource that shouldn't be overlooked, highly recommended.
A Dog Is a Dog
Clarice Rutherford
Alpine Publications
38262 Linman Road, Crawford, CO 81415
1577791037, $14.95, www.alpinepub.com
A Dog Is a Dog, And That's Why He's So Special is a fine choice for ages 10-14 and packs in
over a hundred color photos and illustrations to accompany a fine survey of man's best friend.
Middle school kids receive a blend of science facts and insights into why a dog acts like a dog,
how to communicate with and understand them, how to approach a dog safely, and how to train
and handle a dog. Color photos add emphasis on understanding the dog in a recommendation for
parents and libraries strong in pet references.
Fishes
Gene Helfman and Bruce Collette
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 N. Charles St.
Baltimore, MD 21218
9781421402239, $24.95, www.press.jhu.edu
FISHES: THE ANIMAL ANSWER GUIDE packs in over 100 photos and the latest facts on the
world's fishes and provides a powerful survey for anglers and lay naturalists alike. It's a
wide-ranging natural history that provides a basic survey of fish ecology, interactions, and
science. From oddities that defy science in the fish world to fun facts, this is a highly accessible,
inviting guide recommended for any general lending library where natural history is of interest to
lay readers.
The Gardening Shelf
Fairy Gardens
Betty Earl
B. B. Mackey Books
PO Box 475, Wayne, PA 19087
9781893443501, $21.95, www.mackeybooks.com
A little bit of fantasy in reality. "Fairy Gardens: A Guide to Growing An Enchanted Miniature
World" is a guide to crafting one's own fairy garden and how to find inspiration and creations
surrounding the ideals and putting an original and creative spin on it all. "Fairy Gardens" is
presented in full color with plenty of tips of construction and practicality, making it a very much
recommended addition to any hobbyist collection.
Garden Wisdom
Jerry Apps
Wisconsin Historical Society Press
816 State Street, Madison, WI 53575
9780870204944, $26.95, www.wisconsinhistory.org
GARDEN WISDOM: LESSONS LEARNED FROM 60 YEARS OF GARDENING provides a
fine survey pairing photos by Steve Apps, recipes by Ruth Apps, and the garden wisdom of Jerry
Apps for a complete and fine guide to the entire gardening process. It comes from a rural
historian who discusses the basics of harvesting and cultivating produce, and offers a
crop-by-crop, season-by-season saga blending folklore, science, and his own extensive gardening
savvy into a lively, colorful survey perfect for any home gardener who wants accessible
reading.
The Homeowner's Shelf
Programming Your Home
Mike Riley
Pragmatic Programmers
P.O. Box 293325
Lewisville, TX 75029-3325
9781934356906, $33.00, www.pragprog.com
PROGRAMMING YOUR HOME: AUTOMATE WITH ARDUINO, ANDROID, AND YOUR
COMPUTER is edited by Jacquelyn Carter and provides an outstanding survey teaching how to
use a smartphone and programming to streamline home lighting, security systems, temperatures,
and more. It shows how to use a combination of Android phones, Arduinos and X10 controllers
to perform a range of home functions and is written for smartphone developers and any who
enjoy building electronic projects. PROGRAMMING YOUR HOME could have been featured in
our Computer Shelf section, but is reviewed here for its wider interest to homeowners.
The Crafts Shelf
Humor in Craft
Brigitte Martin
Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road
Atglen, PA 19310
9780764340598, $50.00, www.schifferbooks.com
Humor lies in everything, even within sculpting. "Humor in Craft" is a collection of artworks
throughout the crafting medium that express the humor and ideals that are far from traditional
from many artists. Brigitte Martin creates this compilation in hopes of gaining a more complete
clarity of the minds of the artist and for those who grow bored with traditional artistic methods.
With many fascinating ideals of pottery, furniture, jewelry, footwear, and much more, "Humor in
Craft" is presented in full color, and is an excellent choice for coffee table book or for art
collections looking for something more offbeat.
Making Wire & Bead Jewelry
Janice Berkebile & Tracy Stanley
Lark Crafts
c/o Sterling Publishing Co.
67 Broadway, Asheville, NC 28801
9781454702870, $24.95, www.larkcrafts.com
Working wire and beads is an essential skill for would be jewelry do-it-yourselfers. "Making
Wire & Bead Jewelry: Artful Wirework Techniques" is a design and crafting guide from Janice
Berkebile & Tracy Stanley as they advise readers on how to get into the details of making these
jewelries with many unique patterns. With five hundred full color how to photos, "Making Wire
& Bead Jewelry" is an important pick to the jewelry craftsperson wanting to break into the hobby
or are simply looking for new ideas. Also from Lark Crafts for jewelry crafting is "Heat, Color,
Set, & Fire: Surface Effects for Metal Jewelry" (9781454700166, $27.95), a guide for those who
want to style the base metals for their projects in many unique ways, with practical advice for
pursuing it safely and efficiently.
The Poetry Shelf
Collected Poems of Lenore Kandel
Lenore Kandel
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
9781583943724, $35.00, www.northatlanticbooks.com
Daring to break cultural norms with her work, Lenore Kandel has become quite the legend in the
poetry world. "Collected Poems of Lenore Kandel" is a poetry collection compiling the best of
the late poet's work as she attacked the ideals of her era and continued pushing her original style
all throughout her life. "Collected Poems of Lenore Kandel" is an ideal addition to any literary
poetry collection, highly recommended. "Angel": the eye sees what the mind expects/when the
mind releases expectation/vision perceives/perception varies as the eye varies/as the mind
varies/moving through Moebius infinity/until recognitions collide.
We Lit the Lamps Ourselves
Andrea Potos
Salmon Poetry
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781907056925, $21.95, www.dufoureditions.com
Light is needed to function in the world, but who brings the light. "We Lit the Lamps Ourselves"
is an anthology of poetry from Andrea Potos, who channels the works of past women writers,
taking the path they lit and continuing it onwards herself. With a strong sense of spirit, "We Lit
the Lamp Ourselves" is a solid anthology for poetry fans, not to be overlooked. "Two Emilys":
Who can say what happens to a woman alone in her room,/with sheer white drapes trembling in
air/rushing invisibly over her letters to the world,//or, when she leaves the walls behind her,
deskbox propped under arm,/mastiff sniffing the ground at her side,/the fierce countenance of the
crags,/the wind's holler making translations in her body.
Uncanny Valley
Jon Woodward
Cleveland State University Poetry Center
2121 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115-2214
9781880834992, $15.95, www.csuohio.edu
When something is alike, but is strangely not, it offers a strange sort of horror. "Uncanny Valley"
is a collection of poems from experienced poet Jon Woodward as he presents a collection of
poetry that delves into our culture and its mythology and brings out things we never questioned.
"Uncanny Valley" is a choice and much recommended pick for modern poetry collections.
"Between Identical Cities (A Reminder): Until the heart dissolves into the bloodstream,/As city
walls tunnels lump and dissolve/With the sudden return of the river/To its ancient bed.
Goodbye, Flicker
Carmen Gimenez Smith
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429
Amherst, MA 01004
9781558499492, $15.95, www.umass.edu/umpress
The mythology of America is one of fantasy touched with reality. "Goodbye, Flicker" is a
collection of poetry from Carmen Gimenez Smith, who reflects on these reality and fantasy run
together as we search for something worth enjoying in our lives. "Goodbye, Flicker" is a strong
pick for modern poetry collections, recommended. "Inside the Parabola": Inside the
parabola/canopied by trees, and/reflecting back the light/in each character's eyes,/and the
hand-sewn edges/of costume are exposed,/and when the animal chatter/dies away, the calming
quality/of the arc vacates the tale,/or when you are teller,/the tale doesn't have a last part.
Inside the Whale
Joseph G. Peterson
Wicker Park Press
PO Box 5318
River Forest, IL 60305-5918
9781936679010, $16.00, www.wickerparkpress-31books.com
Man against insurmountable odds has been a classic tale for much of history. "Inside the Whale"
is a novel in verse. Author Joseph G. Peterson has crafted an epic poem, tapping into the
memories of the legends of times gone past, but being true to the modern era. Looking into the
self-destructive nature of humanity and how our lives tear us all apart, "Inside the Whale" is a
strong pick for lovers of poetry and fiction, seeking a modern story with a strong influence of the
epics of the past.
Pity the Beautiful
Dana Gioia
Graywolf Press
250 Third Avenue N, Suite 600
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781555976132, $15.00, www.graywolfpress.org
Poetry can help us piece together a broken view of the world. "Pity the Beautiful" is his fourth
collection of award winning poetry, musing on the world and the place we have in our greater
story of our lives. With much to ponder with his powerful verse, Dana Gioia's work makes "Pity
the Beautiful" a must read for general poetry collections. "Cold San Francisco": I shall meet you
again in cold San Francisco/On the hillside street overlooking the bay./We shall go to the house
where we buried the years, where the door is locked, and we haven't a key./We'll pause on the
steps as the fog burns away,/And the chill waves shimmer in the sun's dim glow,/And we'll gaze
down the hill at the bustling piers/Where the gulls shout their hymns to being alive,/And the
high-masted boats that we never sailed/Stand poised to explore the innocent blue./I shall speak
your name like a foreign word,/Uncertain what it means, and you --/What will you say in that
salt-heavy air/On that bright afternoon that will never arrive?
The Memoir Shelf
Ocho Ocho
Anna Bucher Jones
Farcountry Press
PO Box 5630, Helena, MT 59604
9781591520955, $15.95, www.farcountrypress.com
As the advance of the Imperial Japanese army closed in on much of Southeast Asia, all one could
turn to was family. "Ocho Ocho: My Childhood in War-Torn Asia" is a memoir from Anna
Bucher Jones as she recounts living in the region during the turmoil of World War II, describing
the events and challenges that she and her family faced and how it impacted her life afterwords.
"Ocho Ocho" is a strong addition to any memoir collection focusing on World War II.
Breathing and Walking Around
Kathy A. Bradley
Mercer University Press
1600 Coleman Avenue
Macon, GA 31207
9780881462708, $20.00, www.mupress.org
We take much from life and emerge from it with new thought. "Breathing and Walking Around:
Mediation on a Life" is a collection of musings from Kathy A. Bradley on her life, as she
recounts those events that shaped her and reflects on how and why they shaped her as they did. A
thoughtful and driven assortment of spiritual meditation, "Breathing and Walking Around" is
worth considering for those seeking a personal bit of spirituality and philosophy.
Book of My Mother
Albert Cohen
Archipelago Books
232 3rd St. #A111
Brooklyn, NY 11215
9781935744337, $15.00, www.archipelagobooks.org
The loss of a mother can radically change one's life. "Book of My Mother" is an emotional
memoir from Albert Cohen who delves into the story of his mother, and the emotions that
overcame him as she died in the France he was fleeing due to the oncoming advance of Nazi
Germany. A poignant read of human thought and kindness on many levels, "Book of My Mother"
is expertly translated from the original French by Bella Cohen, and makes for a choice and
solidly recommended addition to international memoir collections with a focus on World War
II.
From Animal House to Our House
Ron Tanner
Academy Chicago Publishers
363 West Erie Street
Chicago, IL 60610
9780897336246, $24.95, www.academychicago.com
Bringing a house back from destruction is no easy task, especially when your distracted by love.
"From Animal House to Our House" is a memoir from Ron Tanner as he shares his story of
discovering a condemned house in Baltimore, formerly owned by a fraternity. With the love of
his then girlfriend by his side, he shares an adventure in home restoration from their perspective
and the whirlwind of romance that came with it. "From Animal House to Our House" is a
riveting read that should prove hard to put down for those who enjoy memoirs with a twist of
romance.
My Story, My Song
Robin Roberts
Upper Room Books
PO Box 340003
Nashville, TN 37203-0003
9780835811071, $18.00, www.upperroom.org
Our family's story always marches on. "My Story, My Song: Mother-Daughter Reflections on
Life and Faith" is a Christian memoir from mother of Good Morning America co-anchor Robin
Roberts, Lucimarian Roberts. She has been known for their strong bond and frequent
appearances on the show, and she shares her story of growing up through the best and worst of
the twentieth century as a strong and faithful black woman. "My Story, My Song" is a strong
addition to any Christian memoir collection, highly recommended.
The Self-Help Shelf
Clutter Busting Your Life
Brooks Palmer
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way
Novato, CA 94949
9781608680795, $14.95, www.newworldlibrary.com
One needs a clear mind to see through to the future they want out of their life. "Clutter Busting
Your Life: Clearing Physical and Emotional Clutter to Reconnect With Yourself and Others" is
an inspirational book from Brooks Palmer as he advises readers on how to clear out the clutter in
one's life, and in more than a physical way, citing lingering attachments to the past that often
hold us back. "Clutter Busting Your Life" is a fine addition to any motivational collection for
those who want to see a clear road to a better future.
The Reality Slap
Russ Harris
New Harbinger Press
5674 Shattuck Avenue
Oakland, CA 94609
9781608822805, $16.95, www.newharbinger.com
Life is occasionally cruel, and it can be hard to deal with that. "The Reality Slap: Finding Peace
and Fulfillment When Life Hurts" is an inspirational read from Russ Harris, as he consoles
readers who are currently dealing with the weight of life's many problems, be it from loss of a
loved one, the sudden loss of friendship or marriage, it can bring one down from their peaceful
point in life. With advice on coping with life's cruelty, "The Reality Slap" is a strong pick
inspirational and self-help collections.
The Five Great Principles for Life
C. R. Stewart
Pelican Publishing Company
1000 Burmaster Street
Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781455615216, $16.79, www.pelicanpub.com
Principle is sticking to something even when it's hard. "The Five Great Principles for Life: Focus,
Strength, Success, Wisdom, Responsibility" is an inspirational collection from C. R. Stewart as
he shares his own successes with his consulting firm and how his principles helped him lead the
way in many aspects of his life. With practical wisdom for getting more out of life, "The Five
Great Principles for Life" is a strong pick for self-help and inspirational collections, especially
those with a focus on the career.
Soul Centered
Sarah McLean
Hay House, Inc.
PO Box 5100
Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100
9781401935863, $16.95, www.hayhouse.com
The power over one's own life lies in one's own hands. "Soul Centered: Transform Your Life in 8
Weeks with Meditation" is an inspirational and spiritual read from Sarah McLean who
encourages readers to embark on a 8 week soul searching spiritual journey, to gain greater clarity
in one's life and put it all together in their own lives. "Soul Centered" is a fine read and a strongly
recommended read for spirituality and self-help collections.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
The Secret History of Poltergeists and Haunted Houses
Claude Lecouteux
Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street
Rochester, VT 05767
9781594774652 $18.95 www.innertraditions.com
Former professor of medieval literature Claude Lecouteux presents The Secret History of
Poltergeists and Haunted Houses: From Pagan Folklore to Modern Manifestations, an
extraordinary anthology of poltergeist folklore. Collecting supernatural legends and stories from
as far back as ancient Greece and Rome, to medieval Europe, to the modern day, The Secret
History of Poltergeists and Haunted Houses reveals how manifestations have evolved over time
even as human interpretations of them radically changed. Of particular interest is how modern
scientific studies of poltergeist manifestations find a strong link between such phenomena and
the presence of troubled young people in the house. Ultimately The Secret History of Poltergeists
and Haunted Houses is a cautionary account, warning about the necessity to show respect to
strike a balance with the supernatural world. Highly recommended especially for any intrigued by
ghost stories and tales of the occult.
Closer Than You Think
Deborah Heneghan
Hampton Roads Publishing Company
65 Parker St., Ste. 7
Newburyport, MA 01950
9781571746610, $16.95, www.hrpub.com
The loss of a friend can be devastating, but their spirit can live on in ways never thought
possible. "Closer Than You Think: The Easy Guide to Connecting with Loved Ones On the
Other Side" is a metaphysical spirituality guide from Deborah Heneghan to reach out to our lost
loved ones and seek their guidance in life's challenges. Heneghan tells readers her way to reach
out, discussing her relationship with her deceased sister and how she believes she is still with her
to help her through life. "Closer Than You Think" is worth considering for those who believe
that their loved ones are not completely lost.
The Lost Secrets of Maya Technology
James A. O'Kon
New Page Books
c/o Career Press Inc.
PO Box 687
Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781601632074, $21.99, www.newpagebooks.com
When a civilization falls, its wisdom can go with it. "The Lost Secrets of Maya Technology"
discusses the techniques and science that the Mayan civilization may have had in ancient times,
including some technologies that were not surpassed until relatively recently in history,
knowledge that could have put society forward hundred of years. "The Lost Secrets of Maya
Technology" is a fascinating delve into the mysteries of the Mayan civilization and what may yet
lie with them to teach us today.
Intuitive Self-Healing
Marie Manuchehri
Sounds True Audio
413 South Arthur Avenue
Louisville, CO 80027
9781604076271, $16.95, www.soundstrue.com
Our best tool against illness is health. "Intuitive Self-Healing: Achieve Balance and Wellness
Through the Body's Energy Centers" discusses with a spiritual slant on how to improve your own
self-healing capabilities and empower your body to defend itself against health issues, using the
concepts of chakra and energy points. For follows of new age medicine, "Intuitive Self-Healing"
is a strong pick for new age health and spirituality collections.
The American History Shelf
Degrees of Allegiance
Petra DeWitt
Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19
Athens, OH 45701
9780821420034 $49.95 www.ohioswallow.com
Degrees of Allegiance: Harassment and Loyalty in Missouri's German-American Community
during World War I is a close study of what German-Americans living in Missouri experienced
during the First World War, an event that created a strong anti-German cultural backlash in
America. Although historians have long posited that the First World War virtually extinguished
German culture in America, author and teacher Petra DeWitt reveals evidence that
German-Americans in Missouri fared significantly better than other German-Americans. Even
so, Missouri's German-Americans still had to cope with accusations of disloyalty, as well as rifts
within the German-American community. Notes, a bibliography, and an index round out this
thoughtful and well-researched scrutiny; Degrees of Allegiance is especially recommended for
college library American History shelves.
Congress and the Crisis of the 1850s
Paul Finkelman and Donald R. Kennon, editors
Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19
Athens, OH 45701
9780821419779 $49.95 www.ohioswallow.com
Congress and the Crisis of the 1850s is an anthology of scholarly essays by learned authors,
examining the dire and bitterly divided state that America was in from 1848 to 1861, the years
immediately prior to Civil War. American territory acquired from Mexico drastically expanded
the nation's size, but also kindled conflict, as Southerners established slavery in these territories.
The Compromise of 1850 was a severe fugitive slave law that increased tensions between the
North and the South - even those Northerners who supported the law to preserve the Union
despised being forced into the role of slave catchers. In the 1857 Dred Scott case, the Supreme
Court held that all bans on slavery in the territories were unconstitutional; yet Northern whites,
free blacks, and escaped slaves fiercely resisted the 1850 fugitive slave law. The divide was so
bitter that members of Congress carried weapons, and one representative, Preston Brooks
notoriously brutalized Senator Charles Sumner with a cane, almost killing him. This is the
extreme climate that once polarized America; political leadership failed on a spectacular level,
but was failure the only option? Individual essays include "Politics, Patronage, and Public Policy:
The Compromise of 1850", "Dred, Panic, War: How a Slave Case Triggered Financial Crisis and
Civil Disunion", "'Hit Him Again': The Caning of Charles Sumner", and much more. Congress
and the Crisis of the 1850s is an excellent and highly recommended addition to public and
college library American History collections.
Up the Winds and Over the Tetons
Marlene Deahl Merrill and Daniel D. Merrill
University of New Mexico Press
1312 Basehart Road SE
Albuquerque NM 87106-4363
9780826350978 $34.95 www.unmpress.com
Up the Winds and Over the Tetons: Journal Entries and Images from the 1860 Raynolds
Expedition is a primary source of the last sizeable government-sponsored survey of the American
West before the Civil War that was the Raynolds Expedition, beginning in 1859. In addition to
the previously unpublished daily journal that Captain William F. Raynolds kept of the trip from
their winter lodgings near (present-day) Glenrock, Wyoming to the Three Forks of the Missouri
in southwestern Montana, Up the Winds and Over the Tetons also includes an epilogue, and
appendices offering Raynolds' published report of his activities on May 31, 1860, and a
preliminary report of Raynolds and his Topographical Engineers on the Yellow Stone Expedition
as of October 5, 1860. A handful of vintage black-and-white drawings (including reproductions
of works by expedition artists Anton Schonborn and James Hutton) and photographs enhance
Raynolds' up-close and hands-on testimony of struggling against a harsh potentially deadly
snowy climate, struggling to get horses and supplies across the fierce Snake River, and even
intra-party conflict. Up the Winds and Over the Tetons is an excellent addition to public and
college library American History collections.
The Faiths of the Postwar Presidents
David L. Holmes
University of Georgia Press
330 Research Drive
Athens, GA, 30602-4901
9780820338620, $29.95, www.ugapress.org
Faith remains an important topic in a president, even as the world grows more secular. "The
Faiths of the Postwar Presidents" chronicles the past sixty years of the presidency, from Harry S.
Truman to Barack Obama. The issues surrounding the faith of the President has been a point of
pride for some, but often a cause of scandal such as son of Jehovah's Witnesses Dwight
Eisenhower, the acceptance of a Catholic president, even more modern issues such as Jeremiah
Wright and Obama. "The Faiths of the Postwar Presidents" is a must for history and politics
collections.
The Kingdom of Matthias
Paul E. Johnson & Sean Wilentz
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016-4314
9780199892495, $19.95, www.oup.com
Not every person with a message from God is revered through history. "The Kingdom of
Matthias: A Story of Sex and Salvation in 19th-Century America" discusses this unusual chapter
in the period known as the Second Great Awakening, surrounding Matthias the Prophet, as
Robert Matthews, a carpenter who proclaimed himself a prophet and forged his own faith with
followers, and whose followers quickly saw that Matthias had many unorthodox ways of doing
things. "The Kingdom of Matthias" is an excellent read for history collections with a focus on
religion and American history.
The World History Shelf
Familia and Household in the Medieval Atlantic World
Benjamin T. Hudson
ACMRS
Arizona State University
PO Box 874402,Tempe, AZ 85287-4402
9780866984409, $55.00, www.amazon.com
The newest addition to the Penn State Medieval Studies series, and compiled by academician and
historian Benjamin T. Hudson (Professor of History and Medieval Studies, Pennsylvania State
University), "Familia and Household in the Medieval Atlantic Province" is a 214-page
compendium of nine erudite essays by nine academic contributors addressing the theme of family
studies within the context of medieval Atlantic studies. Thematically relevant subjects include
the use and importance of genealogy, the artificial family, literary images of kinship, the political
ramifications of family ties, the domestic family organization and structure in medieval European
culture. A model of meticulous scholarship throughout, "Familia and Household in the Medieval
Atlantic Province" is enhanced with the inclusion of a selected bibliography. Informed and
informative, "Familia and Household in the Medieval Atlantic Province" is a seminal body of
work and a strongly recommended addition to academic library Medieval Studies reference
collections and supplemental reading lists.
A European Memory?
Matgorzata Pakier & Bo Strath, editors
Berghahn Books
150 Broadway, Suite 812, NY, NY 10038
www.berghahnbooks.com
9780857454300, $37.95, www.berghahnbooks.com
Despite the successful example of the United States of America, all attempts at creating a 'United
States of Europe', complete with a common foreign policy and economic policy, has been
decisively defeated by populace of the individual European countries. Why? That is the focus and
purpose of "A European Memory?: Contested Histories and Politics of Remembrance", a
372-page descriptive and analytical history of Europe's complex and divisive past. Co-edited by
academicians Matgorzata Pakier (Assistant Professor, Institute of Sociology, Warsaw School of
Social Sciences and Humanities) and Bo Strath (Academy of Finland Distinguished Professor of
Nordic, European and World History, Helsinki University), the "A European Memory?" deftly
organizes articles by twenty-one learned contributors and ranges from Jan-Werner Muller's 'On
European Memory: Some Conceptual and Normative Remarks'; to Stefan Berger's 'Remembering
the Second World War in Western Europe'; to Arfon Rees' 'Managing the History of the Past in
the Former Communist States'; to Konrad H. Jarausch's 'Nightmares or Daydreams?: A Postscript
on the Europeanization of Memories'. An anthology of impressive and seminal scholarly
research, "A European Memory?" is a welcome addition to the Berghahn Books' outstanding
'Studies in Contemporary European History' series and highly recommended for academic library
European History reference collections and supplemental reading lists.
Africa: The Lost Decades
Samuel Decalo
Florida Academic Press
PO Box 357425, Gainesville, FL 32635
9781890357320, $24.95, www.floridaacademicpress.com
Africa is a vast continent, but is all too often shuffled under one banner by the uneducated.
"Africa: The Lost Decades" is cultural guide to the many nations of Africa and their recent
history over the past few decades. Noted scholar Samuel Decalo provides an insightful
breakdown of the nations among the civil unrest that has unfortunately defined the continent in
recent times. "Africa: The Lost Decades" is a good reference for those intrigued by the modern
state of the continent, very much recommended.
Iraq in Turmoil
Cdr. Youssef H. Aboul-Enein
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road
Annapolis, MD 21402
9781612510774, $26.95, www.navalinstitute.org
In the cradle of civilization, people have never known peace for long. "Iraq in Turmoil: Historical
Perspectives of Dr. Ali Al-Wardi, From the Ottoman Empire to King Feisal" is a historical
exploration of Iraq faced with constant change at the turn of the twentieth century. Navy man
Youssef H. Abul-Enein focuses on the work of Dr. Ali Wardi about the period and the influence
that the British had on the region in the aftermath of World War I. "Iraq in Turmoil" is a strong
addition to world history collections, very much recommended.
Animals as Domesticates
Juliet Clutton-Brock
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25
East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
9781611860283, $44.95, www.msupress.msu.edu
Man was wise enough to embrace the power of its fellow creature in shaping his own world.
"Animals as Domesticates: A World View Through History" is a far reaching historical look at
the impact of domesticated animal has had on both human and animal history. Taking studies
from many fields such as archeology and anthropology as well as molecular biology and
archaezoology, Juliet Clutton-Brock presents an insightful delve into history, providing a
fascinating study of the relationship between man and animal. With black and white photography
all through out, "Animals as Domesticates" is a strong pick for history and animal studies
collections.
Setting the Truth Free
Julieann Campbell
Liberties Press
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781907593376, $24.95, www.libertiespress.com
People should not let their governments commit sin against them freely. "Setting the Truth Free:
The Inside Story of the Bloody Sunday Justice Campaign" discusses the pursuits for answers
concerning the 1972 killings of citizens by the British Army. Julieann Campbell seeks to explore
the search for truth, and how the memory still remains strong forty years after the events take
place. A driven story of people facing off against the establishment, "Setting the Truth Free" is a
strong pick for history and social issues collections, highly recommended.
Reclaiming Basque
Jacqueline Urla
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166
Reno, NV, 89557-0166
978874178753, $45.00, www.unpress.nevada.edu
Although usually stuffed into a catch all banner of Spain, Basque is its own culture and language,
with roots older than its neighbors. "Reclaiming Basque: Language, Nation, and Cultural
Activism" discusses the revival of Basque activism and how they the people of the culture are
contributing in their own way for autonomy and to be recognized as their own. "Reclaiming
Basque" is an excellent study of a culture that seeks its own voice, free from the banners of
France and Spain.
Ratline
Peter Levenda
Ibis Press
PO Box 540206
Lake Worth, FL 33454-0206
9780892541706, $26.95, www.ibispress.net
Many modern legends state that Adolph Hitler didn't commit suicide in 1945. But is there any
truth to those legends? "Ratline: Soviet Spies, Nazi Priests, and the Disappearance of Adolph
Hitler" discusses the deep involvement of the Catholic Church with Nazi Germany, with a touch
of the Soviet KGB. Could Hitler have escaped from Germany and lived a quiet life away from
the Nazi War Criminal trials? "Ratline" is fascinating delve into conspiracy and the questions of
Adolph Hitler's final fate.
The Hunting/Fishing Shelf
Steelhead Fly Angling
Michael Gorman
Frank Amato Publications
PO Box 82112, Portland, OR 97282
9781571884794, $29.95, www.Amatobooks.com
Fly fishing is about getting down and dirty with catching your fish. Some take it to the next level.
"Steelhead Fly Angling: Guerrilla Fly-Rod Tactics" is an introduction to the tactics on catching
steelhead, elaborating on the techniques needed to catch the fish, using tactics not commonly
used by traditional fly fishing methods. With plenty of practical advice for the fly fisher hoping
to step up their game, Michael Gorman presents a full color guide for greater fishing excellence,
making "Steelhead Fly Angling" a must for those who want greater steelhead success in their life.
Also from Frank Amato Publications is "Get Started Fly-Fishing!" (9781571884732, $24.95) by
Craig Schuhmann, who gives a crash course in how to get started in this particular fishing
discipline.
The Railroading Shelf
Realistic Animation, Lighting, & Sound, second edition
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle
Waukesha, WI 53186
9780890248638, $19.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com
The model railroad has grown past the railroad, into a whole miniature world. "Realistic
Animation, Lighting, & Sound" is an updated second edition for model railroad enthusiasts who
want to enhance their displays and railroads and gaining the next level of realism to their display
with working parts and lights to capture the feel surrounding the train. A full color hobbyist
guide, "Realistic Animation, Lighting, & Sound" is a must for any model railroad enthusiast with
bigger ideas.
The Gaming Shelf
Brain Busting, Mind Twisting, IQ Crushing Puzzles
Frank Coussement & Peter DeSchepper
Imagine Publishing
85 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472
9781936140619, $12.95, www.charlesbridge.com
A good puzzle is good mental exercise. "Brain Busting, Mind Twisting, IQ Crushing Puzzles" is
a collection of logic and mathematics puzzle that challenge one's critical thinking, logic, attention
to detail, and creativity as these puzzles assault the brain and train it to overcome the many
challenges it will face. Presented in full color, "Brain Busting, Mind Twisting, IQ Crushing
Puzzles" is a strong pick for those looking for fulfilling entertainment.
Playing Sit-&-Go Poker As A Business
Rob Tucker
Cardoza Publishing
5473 South Eastern Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89119
www.cardozapub.com
9781580422659, $19.95, www.amazon.com
It's possible for amateur poker players to 'turn pro'. But there is more to becoming a successful
professional poker player that just sitting down to a cash game in your local casino. For any who
aspire to earning their living by playing the poker games that they enjoy, "Playing Sit-&-Go
Poker As A Business" by poker professional Rob Tucker will prove to be an enduringly valuable
read. This 176-page instructional guide proves a wealth of informed and informative information
on how to earn prize money by playing in satellites for the big buy-in tournaments put on by the
World Poker Tour, the World Series of Poker, the European Poker Tour, and other gaming
opportunities on local and regional levels. Tucker draws upon his years of experience and
expertise (which include winning 18 World Poker Tour main events seats) to provide true
'insider' tips, tricks and techniques for 'making the money'. Enhanced with examples, graphics,
and decision making advice, "Playing Sit-&-Go Poker As A Business" is thorough, 'user
friendly', and should be a part of every dedicated and professional poker player's personal
reference shelf and reading list.
The Civil War Shelf
Keystone Thunder
Richard W. McCoy
Heritage Books
229 Danagher Ct., Holly Springs, NC 27540
9780788453731, $27.00, www.heritagebooks.com
The big guns of the artillery could change the flow of a battlefield. "Keystone Thunder:
Pennsylvania Field Artillery in the Civil War" discusses the impact of the Pennsylvania Artillery
units through the many conflicts in the Civil War and made quite the difference. Covering their
contributions, telling the story of the service providing a wide ranging scope of the war that does
not focus on any particular unit. "Keystone Thunder" is a strong addition to any collection
focusing on the American Civil War.
Placenames of the Civil War
John D. Bennett
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786470099, $45.00, www.mcfarlandpub.com
The Civil War was a highly complex conflict, fought over many places all throughout the broken
Union. "Placenames of the Civil War: Cities, Towns, Villages, Railroad Stations, Forts, Camps,
Islands, Rivers, Creeks, Fords and Ferries" is a comprehensive reference to the sites of the many
events of the American Civil War, drawing studies on the origin of the names, noting the
important events that occurred there and more. For those seeking a quick reference to the many
sites of the divisive conflict, "Placenames of the Civil War" is a must for American Civil War
reference collections.
The Interior Design Shelf
Best Signature Baths
Creative Homeowner
24 Park Way
Saddle River, NJ 07450-2311
9781580115322, $19.95, www.creativehomeowner.com
The Bathroom is not often thought of in fine decor, but it can still carry a certain design and flare
of its own. "Best Signature Baths: Over 100 Luxurious Bathrooms from Top Designers" is a full
color take on interior design for those who enjoy the art form as itself or are looking for ideas of
their own to make their own bathrooms something special to be enjoyed in their moments of
comfort. "Best Signature Baths" is a must for those who enjoy home decor, not to be missed for
interior design collections.
The Parenting Shelf
365 Things Every New Mom Should Know
Linda Danis
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North
Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
9780736923828, $12.99, www.harvesthousepublishers.com
Motherhood is a load of new responsibility, and can prove quite overwhelming. "365 Things
Every New Mom Should Know: A Daily Guide to Loving and Nurturing Your Child" is an
advisory for new mothers as Linda Danis advises with faith for mothers who can be
overwhelmed being responsible for another life. For keeping the slef and the baby healthy and
keeping one's life together, dealing with siblings, and much more, "365 Things Every New Mom
Should Know" is well worth considering for Christian mothers who can often have no clue where
to even start.
Transforming Behavior
Mary N. Cook
Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company
PO Box 10624
Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
9781598572162, $69.95, www.brookespublishing.com
Some behavior isn't appropriate, and dissuading it early is key to success. "Transforming
Behavior: Training Parents & Kids Together" is a guide to behavioral issues as they apply to
young students of the 8-12 range, and what parents and teachers can do. Issues surround
empathy, communication, assertive nature, and other problems that often young people face,
"Transforming Behavior" is a strong pick for educational and school age psychological
collections.
Be a Better Dad Today!
Gregory W. Slayton
Regal
c/o Gospel Light Worldwide
1957 Eastman Avenue, Ventura, CA 93003
9780830762071, $19.99, www.regalbooks.com
Fatherhood is a changing role in today's world. "Be a Better Dad Today!: 10 Tools Every Father
Needs" is a parenting guide from Gregory W. Slayton, who from a Christian perspective advises
fathers to rise up and be the model of modern fatherhood that one knows they can be. Drawing
on faith and how to be a better father no matter what stage your child's life is in, "Be a Better Dad
Today!" is a strong pick for Christian and parenting collections, and for fathers who always want
to leave a more positive impact in their child's life.
Life's Too Short to Miss the Big Picture
Melanie Simpson
Leafwood Publishers
c/o Abilene Christian University Press
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
9780891121039, $14.99, www.leafwoodpublishers.com
Day to day life as a mother can often be all too overwhelming. "Life's Too Short to Miss the Big
Picture" is a Christian driven guide to parenting from Melanie Simpson who advises readers on
how to balance their life as mother, woman, and friendship to get the best of it all when dealing
with the weight of life that we all face. "Life's Too Short to Miss the Big Picture" is a strong pick
for Christian mothers who think they are missing something they shouldn't out of their life.
The Money/Finance Shelf
Protect and Enhance Your Estate
Robert A. Esperti, Renno L. Peterson, David K. Cahoone
The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10121-2298
9780071787895, $30.00, www.books.mcgraw-hill.com
The legal jungle around the estate can be quite difficult to traverse. "Protect and Enhance Your
Estate: Definitive Strategies for Estate and Wealth Planning" is a guide for those who want to
better manage their estate for their families future generations more wisely and smartly. Covering
recent adjustments in estate law dealing with disability, living wills, long term planning for
health and life insurance. "Protect and Enhance Your Estate" is a strong pick for anyone who
wants to better be prepared to deal with the legal jungle pitfalls.
Money on Purpose
Shayna Lear
Judson Press
PO Box 851
Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851
9780817017057, $15.99, www.judsonpress.com
Faith and success are not opposed values. "Money on Purpose: Finding a Faith-Filled Balance" is
a Christian guide to better business success from Shayna Lear who presents a faith-driven guide
to better success in their business life, discussing the relevant scripture on business success for
Christians, with a focus on monetary success for African Americans. "Money on Purpose" is a
strong pick for Christian and personal finance collections, highly recommended.
The Humor Shelf
Prizewinning Political Cartoons 2012 Edition
Dean P. Turnbloom, editor
Pelican Publishing Company
1000 Burmaster Street
Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781455616114 $19.95 www.pelicanpub.com
Prizewinning Political Cartoons 2012 Edition is packed cover to cover with political cartoons
that have earned a variety of prestigious awards - from the Pulitzer Prize and the National
Headliner Awards to the National Cartoonists Society's Reuben Award, the Robert F. Kennedy
Journalism Award, and more. A sizeable number of the cartoons are printed in color as well!
Perhaps the most striking is "The Path to Hope" excerpt, which is different from the usual set of
cartoon gags in that they tell of children living in poverty an struggling to succeed. "It is not
unusual for families living in poverty to discourage family members from seeking upward
mobility. Pursuing an education can be viewed as a rejection of the family. Parents also fear that
a child's success would sever their relationship. In reality, however, upward mobility by one
member of the family can help the rest of the family break the cycle of poverty." Vivid, powerful,
sometimes uncomfortable, but always thought-provoking and often with a wicked sense of
humor, Prizewinning Political Cartoons 2012 Edition is worthy of the highest
recommendation.
No Sailing Waits and Other Ferry Tales
Adrian Raeside
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219
Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550175967 $9.95 www.harbourpublishing.com
No Sailing Waits and Other Ferry Tales collects 30 years of Adrian Raeside's editorial cartoons
about the British Columbia ferry system of Canada - its horrendous delays, ever-increasing fares,
stomach-churning "Sunshine Breakfasts", perpetual teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, clashes
with unions, and much more. Each cartoon has a bit of wry commentary added by the author, the
better to drive the punchline home to those who have never experienced the trials and tribulations
of BC ferries firsthand. For example, a cartoon in which motorists drive by a sign reading "Next
Ferry Breakdown 3 PM" has the commentary, "In 2008, electronic highway signs were installed
at the approach to terminals to let passengers know at what time they wouldn't be going
anywhere." No Sailing Waits and Other Ferry Tales is funny from cover to cover, and highly
recommended for light, relaxing reading... or perhaps as a warning of what Vancouver residents
have to put up with!
The Library Science Shelf
The Librarian's Guide to Negotiation
Beth Ashmore, Jill E. Grogg, and Jeff Weddle
Information Today, Inc.
143 Old Marlton Pike
Medford, NJ 08055-8750
9781573874281, $49.50, www.infotoday.com
The advancement of technology has vastly changed the role of the librarian. "The Librarian's
Guide to Negotiation: Winning Strategies for the Digital Age" discusses the librarian as
negotiator, facing adversaries in vendors, for funding, patrons, and even among their own staff. A
librarian that knows how to get their library's needs addressed is one that is off to having a
successful library. For those librarians who want to best deal with problems and conflicts
comprehensively and effectively in the digital age, "The Librarian's Guide to Negotiation" is a
sage and much recommended pick for library science reference collections.
Picture Books for Children
Mary Northrup
ALA Editions
50 East Huron St.
Chicago, IL 60611
9780838911440, $50.00, www.alastore.ala.org
Picturebooks are the first step to inspiring a love of reading in children. "Picture books for
Children: Fiction, Folktales, and Poetry" is a guide for librarians who want to better increase their
repertoire of children's books in their library as Mary Northrup outlines the best children's
picturebooks in their many sub-genres. From storybooks for children, books meant for
read-along, books for families, and many others, This illustrated guide gives librarians a list of
books by genre, with authors, age ranges, ISBNs, and much more. "Picture Books for Children"
is a must for library science reference collections.
The Language Studies Shelf
Caesar
Hans-Friedrich Mueller
Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers
1570 Baskin Road, Mundelein, IL 60060
www.bolchazy.com
9780865167520, $37.00, www.amazon.com
Written by Hans-Friedrich Mueller and edited by Donald Sprague, "Caesar: Selections from his
Commentarii De Bello Gallico" is a 414-page compendium presenting unadapted Latin passages
from the Commentarii De Bello Gallico: Book 1.1 7; Book 4.24 35 and the first sentence of
Chapter 36; Book 5.24 48; Book 6.13 20 and the English of Books 1, 6, and 7. "Caesar"
Selections from his Commentarii De Bello Gallico" includes all the required English and Latin
selections from Caesar's De Bello Gallico for the 2012-2013 AP* Curriculum. Features:
Introduction includes historical context, an overview of the Roman army, and Caesar as General,
Politician, and Writer Latin text accompanied by same-page notes (grammatical, literary,
historical, contextual) Of special note is the 'same-page' running vocabulary, the 'pull-out'
vocabulary, and the complete Latin-English glossary. Enhanced with the inclusion of an online
grammatical appendix, a select bibliography, eight newly-created maps, 19 black-and-white
illustrations, and an appendix (Figures of Speech), "Caesar Selections from his Commentarii De
Bello Gallico" is an ideal, 'student friendly' text book and curriculum supplement for personal
and academic library Latin Language Studies reference collections and instructional reading
lists.
The Autism Shelf
Siblings of Children with Autism
Sandra L. Harris, Ph.D., Beth A. Glasberg, Ph.D.
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Road
Bethesda, MD 20817
9781606130742, $21.95, www.woodbinehouse.com
A sibling can be a powerful and positive force in one's life. "Siblings of Children with Autism: A
Guide for Families" discusses the impacts that a child with autism and their sibling can have on
one another. For parents of such a group, it includes advice for dealing with responsibility,
misunderstandings that may go on between them, and how to better educate children. "Siblings
of Children with Autism" is a strong read for parents, very much recommended reading.
The Literary Studies Shelf
Why Do We All Love Dr. Seuss?
Lois Einhorn
Robert D. Reed Publishers
PO Box 1992
1380 Face Rock Drive
Bandon, OR 97411
9781934759585, $11.95, www.rdrpublishers.com
What makes a children's author legendary? "Why Do We All Love Dr. Seuss?: Discovering the
Mystery and Magic of an Icon" discusses the methods of the beloved Doctor and how the writer
and artist with a skill at rhyming gained a permanent place in popular culture surrounding his
children's books that many grew up on, and are now sharing with their own children. "Why Do
We All Love Dr. Seuss?" is a fine discussion of the author and his lasting work, very much
recommended.
Orpheus
Ann Wroe
The Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street
New York, NY 10012
9781590207789, $26.95, www.overlookpress.com
The legend of Orpheus captivates many who study classical history. "Orpheus: The Song of Life"
is literary historian Ann Wroe's own study of the man and the myth he has birthed over thousands
of years, influencing even modern writers, proving to many to be a long standing creative force,
with connections to many other ancient works. "Orpheus" is a choice addition to any literary
studies or world history collections, highly recommended.
The Large Print Shelf
Guns of Justice
Hal Johns
Dales
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230
West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9781842628881, $23.99, www.ulverscroftusa.com
Running is only a temporary solution, but it takes quite the determination to stand against
falsehood. "Guns of Justice" is a large print Western from Hal Johns, following the tale of Des
Willard, a man wrongfully accused of a murder of a Sheriff. Facing him is overwhelming eye
witness testimony. With few allies willing to associate with a believed murderer, clearing his
name won't be easy, but he's up to the task. "Guns of Justice" is a top pick for those with a love
for westerns, very much recommended.
The Women's Studies Shelf
Finding A Way To The Heart
Robin Jarvis Brownlie & Valerie J. Korinek
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College
Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R3T 2M5
9780887557324, $31.95, www.uofmpress.ca
Canadian issues of race and gender are the subject of "Finding a Way to the Heart: Feminist
Writings on Aboriginal and Women's History in Canada", a 280-page compendium of erudite
essays by twelve scholar's whose contributions range from Jennifer S.H. Brown's 'All These
Stories About Women: Many Tender Ties and a New Fur Trade History'; to Katrina Srigley's 'I
am a proud Anishinaabekwe: Issues of Identity and Status in Northern Ontario after Bill C-31'.
All of these essays are seminal works that have been deftly edited by the collaborative effort of
academicians Robin Jarvis Brownlie and Valerie J. Korinek. The result is an informed and
informative body of work that is a valued contribution to, and highly recommended for, academic
library Canadian History, Ethnic Studies, and Women's Studies reference collections and
supplemental reading lists.
The Dance Shelf
The Basse Dance Handbook
David Wilson
Pendragon Press
PO Box 190, Hillsdale, NY 12529
www.pendragonpress.com
9781876471609, $84.00, www.amazon.com
The newest addition to the outstanding Pendragon Press 'Wendy Hilton Dance & Music' series,
"The Basse Dance Handbook, Text and Context: Seventeen Original Sources" transcribed and
compiled by the late David Wilson and with informed commentary by Veronique Daniels, stands
unique in the annals of academia. This 311-page compendium comprises major chapters
providing an introduction and summary, addresses the social context of the French Basse Dance,
provides a review of the sources, and offers informed conclusions on the structure of the Basse
Dance, observations on other contemporary French dance forms, and comparison with
fifteenth-century Italian Bassadanza. Enhanced with appendices on its name, instructions on its
performance, 'The French Basse Dance in Art', and 'Two Contracts', as well as a bibliography and
an Index, "The Basse Dance Handbook" is a seminal work of superb scholarship and a core
addition to academic library European Dance History reference collections and supplemental
reading lists.
The Fashion Shelf
Costume and Fashion, A Concise History, fifth edition
James Laver, author
Thames & Hudson Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
9780500204122 $24.95 www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
"Costume and Fashion, A Concise History" is presented in a new fifth edition with a new chapter
by Amy de la Haye called Fashion in the Twenty-First Century which takes account of not only
modern fashion trends and design but also the impact of the virtual shopping world, e-commerce,
online advertising and sales, related blogs and sites, etc. A stunning total of 348 illustrations, 85
in color, present fashion design images through history. "Costume and Fashion" is a costume and
dress Bartlett's Familiar Quotations, indispensable to the student of costume design, fashion
history, or theater production costumer. The relationship between fashion history and art history
is frequently explored in both illustrations and discussion. "Costume and Fashion, A Concise
History" covers known Western costume history in 11 brief chapters with scintillating clarity and
brevity. No fashion library should lack this gem of a thumbnail documentary of Western clothing
and accessories trends.
The Wisconsin Shelf
Solid Roots and Strong Wings
Sue Berg
Little Creek Press
5341 Sunny Ridge Road
Mineral Point, WI 53565
9780984924509, $19.95, www.littlecreekpress.com
Wisconsin has strong rural roots it has flourished from. "Solid Roots and Strong Wings: A
Memoir of Family Life in Wisconsin" is a memoir from Sue Berg, as she recounts her own
family history and what she has learned as a family woman in the state, presenting a thoughtful
and down to earth story that shouldn't be overlooked. "Solid Roots and Strong Wings" is an
excellent pick for general memoir collections focusing on Wisconsin life.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com
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