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Small Press Bookwatch

Volume 9, Number 12 December 2010 Home | SPBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Relationship Shelf Military Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf American History Shelf Fiction Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf Christian Studies Shelf
Business Shelf Philosophy Shelf Political Science Shelf
Biography Shelf Criminology Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Religion/Spirituality Shelf Poetry Shelf Aviation Shelf
Parenting Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Judaic Studies Shelf Women's Studies Shelf Sports Shelf
Travel Shelf Education Shelf Social Issues Shelf
Judicial Studies Shelf    


Reviewer's Choice

Shoestring Reporter
Joel Thurtell
Hardalee Press
11803 Priscilla Lane, Plymouth, MI 48170
9780975996935, $25.00, www.hardaleepress.com

Writing is a talent that can be taught, but it can also come naturally. "Shoestring Reporter: How I got to be a Big City Reporter Without Going to J School and How You Can Do it Too!" is a memoir and advisory guide from Joel Thurtell about his journey to landing his dream job without going through the formal channels. Independent thinking and a way of words are all that's truly needed to succeed and many papers don't simply want traditional styles alone any longer. "Shoestring Reporter" is a top pick for anyone who has big dreams of journalism but can't or doesn't want to look towards a higher education in their pursuit.

America's Misadventures in the Middle East
Chas W. Freeman Jr.
Just World Books
PO Box 5484, Charlottesville, VA 22905
9781935982012, $22.95, www.justworldbooks.com

America may not have handled itself the best it could in Middle Eastern affairs. "America's Misadventures in the Middle East" is a collection of essays from Chas W. Freeman Jr., who has acted as a diplomat on America's behalf against one hundred countries and served under President Nixon. Here he presents two dozen of his essays on the subject of the Middle East and provides much insight on what America has done right and what they have failed to do right. "America's Misadventures in the Middle East" is a thoughtful and scholarly read, not to be missed by any student of international affairs.

Angles of the English-Speaking World
Simon Frost & Robert W. Rix
Museum Tusculanum Press
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 Northeast 58th Avenue, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213
9788763535106, $23.00, www.isbs.com

Language is the great spreader of ideas. "Angles of the English-Speaking World: Moveable Type, Mobile Nations: Interactions in Transnational Book History" is a collection of essays discussing the movement of ideas throughout history, ranging from the revolution of the printing press, what GIs read during World War II, wars against books, and the constant social change language has brought. A scholarly collection of ideas, "Angles of the English-Speaking World" is a fine addition to any history collection focusing on the history of written language.


The Relationship Shelf

From Heartbreak to Heart's Desire
Dawn Maslar
Central Recovery Press
3371 N. Buffalo Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89129
9780981848266, $14.95, www.centralrecoverypress.com

The dating game can be a very tiring process. "From Heartbreak to Heart's Desire: Developing a Healthy GPS (Guy Picking System) is a guide to understanding what one truly needs out of a relationship and how to get out of a relationship that's gone sour. Stating that forming one's own vetting system is the best way to relationship success, "From Heartbreak to Heart's Desire" is a thoughtful and solidly recommended read that shouldn't be missed.

Things I Learned From My Wife
Robert Brown
Denro Classics
11700 Mukilteo Speedway, 201-1084, Mukilteo, WA 98275
9781453622193, $14.95

Marriage is a never ending learning experience. "Things I Learned from my Wife" is a discussion from Robert Brown reflecting on the lessons he has learned as a man from his wife about responsibility and what it means to be a husband and father. Aimed at both men and women to gain an understanding of how the male mind works and how to bridge it, "Things I Learned from my Wife" is a remarkable read, highly recommended.

The Loving Divorce
Dr. LeeAnne Del Rio
Liberty Publishing
1339 Roper Way, Santa Maria, CA 93455
9781450719933, $15.95, www.thelovingdivorce.com

A divorce doesn't have to be a full scale war. "The Loving Divorce" is a guide to having a divorce that doesn't result in screaming every encounter. From understanding the need to split, dealing with the children with common sense, dealing with new mates and partners, and in general having a harmonious next step in one's relationship. "The Loving Divorce" is a wise and highly recommended read for anyone who doesn't want their divorce to be facing nonstop venom.


The Military Shelf

Pitching My Way Through World War II
Joy V. Bliss, Rosanne E. Bliss, and G.L. Dybwad
The Book Stops Here
1108 Rocky Point Court NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123-1952
9780963161260, $29.95, www.bookstopshere.com

Pitching My Way Through World War II collects over 300 letters that Pfc. Vernon E. Ellingson wrote to his parents and sister in North Dakota, while serving in the U.S. Army for three and a half years during World War II. Ellingson was a message clerk with combat infantry training in the Battalion Headquarters Company of the 359th Regiment, 90th Infantry Division; he delivered messages to Patton's front lines. His letters tell of the rigors of basic and advanced training, the build-up to Normandy in Great Britain, his efforts in five European campaigns, and the occupation of Germany after Victory in Europe Day. In addition to serving as a citizen soldier, he was also the pitcher for his company's softball team. A wealth of black-and-white photographs on almost every page illustrate this unforgettable grounds-eye-view correspondence anthology, worthy of the highest recommendation.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Must Love Dragons
Monica Marier
Hunt Press
12811 Pacific Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90066
9780979067457, $22.95, www.huntpress.com

Must Love Dragons is a whimsical novel that blends its fantasy world with recognizable elements from our own. A househusband hero, who has spent the past few years changing diapers and raising his family, has to go back to work in the Ranger trade. In his day job, trolls, elves and magic are as commonplace as lower back pain, but he has many mouths to feed, and a dragon of a wife to tend to! In Must Love Dragons, ordinary as well as extraordinary problems besiege heroes every day; it takes a good sense of humor as well as a stiff upper lip to make it through a typical working shift. Highly recommended.

The Guardian
C. J. Gosling
Eco-Libris
c/o Brighter Books
5765 Turner Road, Unit 1, Suite #409, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6M4, Canada
9780986555527, $14.95, www.brightebrooks.com

Abandoned, a sister is all you have to connect to your world. "The Guardian " is the first book in the Shadowlands Series, following Tavin, facing the loss of his mother and father, seeing his sister as the one thing keeping him rooted in the world. As his sister falls ill, Tavin must travel through a small door in the attic to another world, that might hold the cure for her. "The Guardian" is a riveting fantasy, highly recommended.

The Dying Times
Brian Kittrell
Late Nite Books
PO Box 321, Brandon, MS 39042
9780982949597, $13.95, www.latenitebooks.com

It's not easy facing the teen years. Especially during a Zombie Apocalypse. "The Dying Times: Nadene's Story" tells of the rise of the living dead in America and Apocalypse that seems to come with it. A thirteen year old girl, Nadene, possesses a special talent that may be vital to turn the tide of battle against the swarms of the dead. "The Dying Times" is a thoughtful read with much to be relished for readers of zombie fiction.

Halith
Kirsten Kelly
PaleCriminal Works
7740 SW 103 PL, Miami, FL 33173
9780615330204, $13.95, www.pcwbooks.com

To make a greater difference in the world, a girl has to rail against the standards of the world. "Halith" tells the story of a sixteen year old girl of Aessyra, a land on the brink of an all-consuming world. Sent off to a fosterage, she leaves on her path to the way of the warrior, and must make her own way to find her father, the high king, and make her mark for peace. "Halith" is a riveting fantasy, highly recommended.

Red Serpent
Delson Armstrong
9ine
1710 1st Avenue, Suite 169, New York, NY 10017
9780982952306, $15.99, www.delsonarmstrong.com

Against a vicious predator, humanity must struggle to stay alive. "Red Serpent: The Falsifier" tells the story of Alex, one of the last of mankind in a space station orbiting earth. Vampires have claimed the Earth as their own, seeking to use humans as livestock. Finding that his destiny is to bring down the vampiric empire, "Red Serpent" is a thrilling read that will be hard to put down.


The American History Shelf

Lost Mines & Buried Treasures of Old Wyoming
W.C. Jameson
High Plains Press
403 Cassa Road, Glendo, Wyoming 82213
9780931271953, $15.00, www.highplainspress.com

Written by expert treasure hunter W.C. Jameson, who has published 60+ books on treasuring finding and served as an advisor to Walt Disney Productions on the "National Treasure" movies, Lost Mines & Buried Treasures of Old Wyoming lives up to its title with a cornucopia of legends, lures, and folklore about Wyoming's hidden riches. From the story of Snake River Pothole Gold, to the mystery of the Hallelujah Gulch Robbery Loot, the Lost Treasure of Big Nose Gorge, and more, Lost Mines & Buried Treasures of Old Wyoming will prove fascinating to treasure seekers and armchair travelers alike. The legends behind these long-lost loots are so entertaining they form virtual treasures in and of themselves!

New Orleans
David Rutledge
Broken Levee Books
c/o Chin Music Press
2621 24th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98199
9780984457618, $16.00, www.chinmusicpress.com

Hurricanes, oil spills, nature seems dedicated to driving people out of New Orleans, but the people won't leave. "Where We Know: New Orleans as Home" is a collection of essays from authors of New Orleans, about New Orleans, compiled by David Rutledge. Along with these essays from a wide range of authors, there are also many photos that speak to the New Orleans spirit. "Where We Know" is a must for anyone who wants a more excellent understanding of the tenacity of the people of New Orleans.


The Fiction Shelf

I Am Santa!
Kristy Haile
Happy Bean Publishing
c/o The Barrett Company
12021 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 600, Los Angels, CA 90025
9780982704318, $9.99, http://iamsantabook.com

Author Kristy Haile was brilliantly inspired by the imagination of her son when Ty believed that he was himself the new Santa Clause at the tender age of 2 1/2 years. Haile kept a record of what her son said and did over the next two years -- as well as other people's responses to Ty's self-identification as Santa. The result is "I Am Santa!", a fictionalized account that thoroughly engages the reader's attention in a 343-page novel that is a heartfelt enjoyment and a pure pleasure read from first page to last. Especially recommended for pre-teens, parents, and anyone who has ever felt the wonder of the Christmas icon that is Santa Clause, Kristy Haile's debut novel is superbly written in a conversational tone. Superbly crafted fiction from beginning to end, "I Am Santa!" will be available in 2011 in a hardcover edition (9780982704301, $TBA) which is especially recommended for school and community libraries, and also currently available in an eBook format (9780982704326, $9.99). This is a Christmas title that is recommended reading at any and all times of the year!

Obey or Die
A. J. Cushner
Parker Books
8240 Grand Messina, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
9781453736234, $13.95

The circuit will be the weapon that trumps the nastiest of explosives. "Obey or Die" is a technological thriller following old school CIA analyst as he hunts down the truth behind a series of murders throughout the world, tied to MIT's secret Facets project. In a race against time as more murders occur and Washington DC targeted, "Obey or Die" is a techno thriller that will be hard to but down, highly recommended.

Primal Whispers
Kim Rowley
Elk Run Press
50 Elk Drive, Evergreen, CO 80439
9780984533107, $14.95, www.elkrunpress.com

The urges of motherhood can be draining when they can't be fulfilled. "Primal Whispers" tells the story of Kate Cochran, a middle age woman facing the rest of her life. When faced with the emergence of an old childhood friend, a lost lover who she hasn't forgotten, and the daughter she wishes she had, "Primal Whispers" is a fascinating story of coming to terms with middle age and facing the rest of one's life well.

Whatever Gods May Be
Sophia Kell Hagin
Bold Strokes Books
PO Box 249, Valley Falls, NY 12185
9781602821835, $16.95

When no one cares if you die, you don't care if you die. "Whatever Gods May Be" follows Jamie Gwynmorgan as she finds her path in life through becoming a woman of war, seeing that she has no strong bonds to those around her. Forgetting the other pleasures of life, those pleasures might find her, as the ability to love has not yet abandoned her. A riveting novel with a twist of romance, "Whatever Gods May Be" is a fun and exciting read, hard to put down.

The Dome
Lior Samson
Gesher Press
c/o Ampersand Press
58 Kathleen Circle, Rowley, MA 01969
9780984377213, $17.95

Billions of people around the world find the Dome of the Rock sacred, and it has become quite the target. "The Dome" is a political thriller from Lior Samson, as he follows a terrorist plot surrounding the sacred place and terrorists who wish to destroy it. Set amongst the turmoil of the Middle East, Samson makes for an exciting thriller that will be hard to put down. "The Dome" is an excellent read, and very highly recommended.

Until I Return
Kenneth E. Nowell
Vero House
5460 Corsica Place, Vero Beach, FL 32967
9780982827901, $16.99, www.verohousepublishing.com

The world seems destined for destruction. "Until I Return: Dawn of the Shining Darkness" is a Christian novel based on the prophecies of the saints throughout history. Crafting a riveting story with plenty of Christian history weaved in, "Until I Return" will be a novel that will be hard to put down for many readers.

In the Lap of the Gods
Li Miao Lovett
Leapfrog Press
PO Box 2110, Teaticket, MA 02536
9781935248132, $15.95, www.leapfrogpress.com

The people of modern China still struggle to succeed in their lives and find happiness. "In the Lap of the Gods" is a novel following the story of a dam called the Three Gorges. Lives are shattered and changed by the construction of the dam, as Li Miao Lovett tells a story of the high human cost that still dwells in today's world. "In the Lap of the Gods" is a riveting read and solidly recommended for world literature collections.

Barefoot Through the Goathead Patch
Ken Jarman
All-American Books
PO Box 6298, Whittier, CA 90609
9780982596104, $24.95, www.all-americanbooks.com

Life didn't magically get awesome even as the depression came to an end. "Barefoot Through the Goathead Patch: The Adventures of a Precocious Little Boy" is the story of a young boy through the challenges of youth and the first encounters with love, and facing the looming troubles of life ahead of him. A fun read of growing up and coming of age in the 1940s, "Barefoot Through the Goathead Patch" is a charming read that will prove hard to put down.

Duncan's Diary
Christopher C. Payne
Journalstone
199 State Street, San Mateo, CA 94401
9780982811948, $22.95, www.journalstone.com

The most horrible monsters are the ones who didn't start off as such. "Duncan's Diary: Birth of a Serial Killer" tells the story of Duncan, a man facing a mid life crisis. Finding that his only joy lies in cruelty to others, he's split between his own sadistic pleasure and the morality that tells him it's wrong to do what he does. On a collision course with his police best friend, "Duncan's Diary" is a fascinating read of the descent into madness of a serial killer.

The Collectibles
James J. Kaufman
Downstream Publishing
1908 Eastwood Road, Suite 324, Wilmington, NC 28403
The Cadence Group (publicity)
103 Remsen Street Cohoes, NY 10247
9780982587317, $24.99, www.thecollectiblesnovel.com

No matter how different we are, there are always factors to unite us. "The Collectibles" tells of two individuals, Joe Hart, an orphan and blue-collar worker. Preston Wilson is a man who would never have to work a day in his life if he didn't want to, and the fear of having to makes him have to cut a bargain with Joe. Joe's return favor though, is not one that money can simply solve. "The Collectibles" is a poignant and thoughtful read, highly recommended.

Friends of the Deceased
Dale J. Moore
Northern Amusements, Inc.
2930 Sandlewood Crt, LaSalle, ON N9H 2S3
9780981281735, $14.99, www.northernamusements.com

Katrina wanted to work at a salon. She still works on making people pretty and presentable, but not in the way she'd hope. "Friends of the Deceased" is an entry in Dale and Maureen Moore's 'Trials of Katrina' series, following Katrina through her life and endlessly trying to make ends meet. Working at a Salon, Katrina finds herself dragged into a Funeral home, dragged into a mystery and trying to find the truth. Light hearted and fun, "Friends of the Deceased" is sure to be a fun read. Also recommended, is Maureen Moore's "Life of the Party" (9780981281704, $14.99) in the 'Trials of Katrina' series, following Katrina in her ongoing adventures, this time as a professional party guest.

American Suite
Diana E. Sheets
Jorge Pinto Books
151 East 58th Street, New York, NY 10022
Gulotta Communications (publicity)
341 Lexington Street, Newton, MA 02466
9781934978337, $19.95

Being completely white is almost un-American at this point. "American Suite" tells the story of a white family dropped into the multi-cultural pool and how the family copes with their world suddenly shifting so drastically. With plenty of humor and a unique take on family, romance, the self, and much more, "American Suite" is a fine piece of 'chick lit' and will prove to be hard to put down, no matter who you are.

Threads West
Reid Lance Rosenthal
Rockin SR Publishing
1920 Thomas Avenue, Ste. 600, Cheyenne, WY 82001
9780982157619, $14.95, www.rockinsrpublishing.com

The lure of the west brought many people there in search of fortune. "Threads West: An American Saga" is the first novel in a series telling the story of a family traveling west. Promoting it as a story that tells much of the story of people who looked towards the west to make their mark in life, this is a fine historic novel that many will relate to and enjoy. Hard to put down, "Threads West" is a choice pick for any western fiction collection.

Fight for Your Long Day
Alex Kudera
Atticus Books
3766 Howard Avenue, Suite 202, Kensington, MD 20895
9780984510504, $14.95

You spend years slavering over the best of grades, only to continue slavering in a classroom. "Fight for Your Long Day" is a novel focusing on the trials and tribulations of the professor. With much discussed in the dilemmas that face modern academics and with a good dose of dark humor, "Fight for Your Long Day" is an excellent read and solidly recommended.

Barney and the Runaway
Max Elliot Anderson
Comfort Books
PO Box 6265, Concord, NC 28027
9780984559848, $10.99

Rebelling against one's parents is rarely thought out the best it can be. "Barney and the Runaway" tells the story of Mike Ellis, who flees his parents with his dog, sick of their rules. Ending up in a circus, Mike soon learns that parental love may not be obvious, but it's always there. A story of a child coming to understand their parents, "Barney and the Runaway" is a fine and thoughtful read.

Oregon Trail
Rick Steber
Bonanza Publishing
PO Box 204, Prineville, OR 97754
0945134010, $4.95, www.ricksteber.com

A great journey westward, the Oregon trail has its own engraved place in history. "Oregon Trail" is a collection of stories on the trail from prolific western writer Rick Streber. These stories provide a fascinating and intriguing light on the journey and will prove highly fascinating. "Oregon Trail" is a fine addition to any western fiction collection.

Grim Reaper
Steve Alten
Variance
1610 South Pine St., Cabot, Arkansas 72023
9781935142164, $25.95, www.variancepublishing.com

666 years later, another plague threatens to wipe out mankind. "Grim Reaper: End of Days" is a thriller from Steve Alten as he tells a story of a deadly plague that is set to consume mankind in 2012 called Scythe. Telling his story concurrently with his take on the memoir of a French plague doctor from 1347, he provides an intriguing thriller. "Grim Reaper: End of Days" is an excellent read, well worth considering for thriller fans.

A Hundred Miles to Water
Mike Kearby
Readwest
c/o Oldwest
PO Box 406, Lometa, TX 76853
9780978842246, $29.95, www.mikekearby.com

Blood feuds and peace polar opposites. "A Hundred Miles to Water" tells the story of the fierce feud between two clans in the late eighteenth century as they fight over cattle, patriotism, and everything else. A riveting read of the cruelty of man to one another and the hostility that waited on the frontier, Mike Kearby brings forth a read that will prove hard to put down. "A Hundred Miles to Water" is a fine western, very highly recommended.

Endangered Species
Ken Coffman
Stairway Press
1500A East College Way #554, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
9780975431498, $12.95, www.armchairadventurer.net

Big Foot has done much to captivate the imaginations of those in the pacific Northwest. "Endangered Species: The Great American Sasquatch Novel" turns this famed beast into the basis of his tale, as the hunt for this link between man and ape is being hunted. With plenty of fascinating characters, "Endangered Species" is a fun read and quite the thriller, recommended.

Don't Mean Nothin'
Robert C. Marsett
Ranges Press
5031 N. Calle Tobosa, Tucson, AZ 85749
9780984103003, $13.95, www.robertmarsett.com

Becoming a warrior changes one's life. "Don't Mean Nothin'" is a novel following the maturation of Bobby Marshall from young man into veteran warrior. A story of growing up and growing up fast under fire, "Don't Mean Nothin'" is a fine volume and has much for readers to ponder about the effects of war on the youth.

Marysvale
Jared Southwick
Two Roads
PO Box 838, Salem, UT 84653
9780984588206, $22.95, www.jaredsouthwick.com

Some gifts are never asked for. "Marysvale" tells of John Casey, an individual with the ability to look into souls. His gift leads him to always running in life, but his journey may end when he finds something he may call love in a small town called Marysvale. A psychological thriller with a lot to think about, "Marysvale" may be an ideal pick for anyone looking for a story of someone in a constant conflict with a dark secret.

Dripping Blood Cave
Raymond Bial
Crickhollow Books
3147 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53207
9781933987132, $13.95, www.crickhollowbooks.com

It's annoying when you can't go a week without encountering more ghosts. "Dripping Blood Cave & Other Ghostly Stories" is a fascinating collection of mysteries and ghost stories as young teenager Hank Cantrell and his comrade Clifford Hopkins face off against waves of lost souls who depend on Hank to find a way to let them move on with their deaths. "Dripping Blood Cave & Other Ghostly Stories" is a fun collection, and not one to be missed.

American Indian Story: The Adventures of Sha'kona
Jana Mashonee and Stephan Galfas
Wampum Books
115A Pine Street, Greenwich, CT 06830
9780984201211, $16.95, www.wampumbooks.com

Destiny has a strange way of appearing in one's life. "American Indian Story: The Adventures of Sha'kona" is based on the album American Indian story, providing a novelization of the said story. Blending fantasy, history, and other elements, it blends native American history and much more. "American Indian Story" is a thoughtful story with much inspiration, highly recommended.

Captive: A Novel
Megan Lisa Jones
Polimedia Publishing
440 S. El Cielo Road Ste. 3-670, Palm Springs, CA 92262
9780976861768, $15.95, www.polimediaent.com

The need to get information from terrorists is a matter of life and death. "Captive" follows the challenge of George, a psychology professor charged with getting information out of Khalil. Racing against the clock, George is unknowingly pit against Omar, Khalil's comrade in terror with bombs set across the country. "Captive" is a riveting thriller of the fight against terror, proving to be a compelling read.

The Spur & The Sash
Robert Grede
Three Towers Press
1288 Summit Ave., Suite 107/115, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
9781595980922, $26.95, www.ThreeTowers.Press.com

The lost stories of history can be just as interesting as any fiction. "The Spur & The Sash: Middle Tennessee 1865" draws on the real story of Sergeant George Van Norman, a wounded Union solider near the end of the Civil War. Author Robert Grede draws on history to tell Norman's remarkable story of bridging the gap that the war left between the states and standing amongst the tumultuous reconstruction years. An exciting piece of historical fiction with a good dose of fact, "The Spur & the Sash" is a read that will be hard to put down.

The Slow Creek and Other Stories
F. De Sales Meyers
Abecedarian Books, Inc.
2817 Forest Glen Drive, Baldwin, MD 21013-9574
9780982298541, $19.99

There's more to Appalachia than a few more remote towns. "The Slow Creek and Other Stories" is a collection of stories from F. De Sales Meyers focusing on the human drama that spills out in our lives, focusing on the unique setting of the still small towns in the mountains. Using an intriguing and entertaining assortment of characters, Meyers gives readers quite the emotional investment, and makes "The Slow Creek and Other Stories" a very good pick for short fiction fans looking for unique contemporary work.

Land Sharks
S. L. Stoner
Yamhill Press
PO Box 42348, Portland, OR 97242
9780982318447, $14.95, www.yamhillpress.com

In the search for truth, you'll often find more truth than the simple truth you're looking for. "Land Sharks: A Sage Adair Historical Mystery" is a riveting mystery from S. L Stoner, following his protagonist Sage Adair who is charged with finding two lost individuals in 1902, diving into the seedy side of Portland in order to find out what happened to them and what can be done. He may find them, but he finds so much more than that, "Land Sharks" is an exciting piece of historical fiction, recommended.

Young Junius
Seth Harwood
Tyrus Books
1213 N. Sherman Ave. #306, Madison, WI 53704
9781935562276, $14.95, www.tyrusbooks.com

The age of fourteen is no time to be a vigilante. "Young Junius" tells the story of Junius Posey, a fourteen year old boy intent on finding the truth behind the death of his brothers with only fifty dollars and a few friends to his name. Meeting with the downtrodden side of Cambridge and a need to not live in hiding and find closure, "Young Junius" is an exciting read of youth crime, and proves to be quite the thriller.

Beyond Midnight
S. R. Dixon
Ozmoment's House of Twilight Press
33 3rd St. SE, Plainview, MN 55964
9780982972106, $10.00

The unknown has plenty of interesting things in store, even if they aren't something you want to face. "Beyond Midnight" is collection of short stories from S. R. Dixon focusing on the unknown and what it brings to face people after the clock ticks midnight. From ancient malice, to last dances in the face of death to the nightmares that face every father, "Beyond Midnight" is an excellent read with plenty of reading, not to be missed by short fiction fans.

Flamingo Flower
David Creed
Isis Publishing Limited
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9780753186589, $35.50

Romantic allure can come on strong, but sensibility often makes us resist. "Flamingo Flower" is a romance from David Creed, following young official John Benning, set to marry his finance. But the engagement has six more months when Jeanne comes onto the scene and John finds that his attraction may not belong wholly to his fiance any longer. "Flamingo Flower" is a fascinating take on romance, and presented in large print for ease of reading for vision impaired readers.

The Diva of Peddler's Creek
Ava Bleu
Wild Rose Press
PO Box 708, Adams Basin, NY 14410-0706
9781601548375, $14.99, www.thewildrosepress.com

Big city girl in a small town looks like a problem waiting to happen. "The Diva of Peddler's Creek" tells the story of ambitious Romance novelist Taylor Beir as she finds her way to Peddler's Creek, West Virginia, a major change of scenery for her. In this small town, Taylor doesn't seem to slide in perfectly, but she will soon learn she has her role in making the town much better than what it is. "The Diva of Peddler's Creek" is an excellent read with a collection of brilliant characters and a moving story.

Mata Sara
Regis Tove Stella
UPNG Press
c/o Masalai Press
368 Capricorn Avenue, Oakland, CA 94611-2058
9789980939685, $19.95

Being the outcast isn't much fun. "Mata Sara (Crooked Eyes)" is a novel of displacement and the need to belong in today's world. Telling the story of four individuals traveling to a new country on scholarships, their alien values clash with the new people they meet and find blending in and friendship hard. Thoughtful and valuable reading, "Mata Sara (Crooked Eyes)" is an excellent read that shouldn't be easily dismissed.

From a Distance
CL Hart
PD Publishing
27655-128th Avenue, Maple Ridge, BC Canada, V2W 1N5
9781933720753, $20.99, www.pdpublishing.com

On the run, you take what little help you can find. "From a Distance" tells the story of military assassin Kenzie and her fleeing from her former superiors. Her only help is a college student, and the two are led to run through their lives throughout the turbulent Mexico with only each other for support. An exciting and riveting read that will be hard to put down, "From a Distance" is a choice pick for any thriller fan.

Blood of my Brother
James LePore
The Story Plant
PO Box 4331, Stamford, CT 06907
9780981956886, $16.95, www.thestoryplant.com

A brotherhood formed by friendship, not blood, is something not to be violated. "Blood of my Brother" tells the story of Jay Cassio and Dan Del Colliano, brothers of circumstance and friendship. When Dan is murdered, a job done professionally, Jay uses his power as a lawyer and determination as a man to find the truth, and sees that his journey to find justice is littered with peril and even a bit of romance. "Blood of my Brother" is an exciting thriller that will prove hard to put down.

The Savannah Project
Chuck Barrett
Switchback Publishing
95222 Village Dr., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
9781936214075, $16.95, www.chuckbarrett.org

The truth can be a truly dangerous thing. "The Savannah Project" tells the story of an NTSB investigator charged with finding what happened when a plane crashes during a Saint Patrick's day investigation. The investigator soon finds evidence of foul play and finds that the truth isn't being welcomed freely. "The Savannah Project" is an exciting thriller that will prove hard to put down.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

The Big Show Stopper
Ken Dalton
Different Drummer Press
860 March Ave., Healdsburg, CA 95448
9780578054599, $14.95

Made to look like an accident, no one bothers to seek a murderer. "The Big Show Stopper" is a mystery filled with unusual and offbeat characters surrounding the death of Brady Blackstone, a famed and popular concert performer. As two of his fans travel the country in search of the truth, they find quirks in every step of the law and find something quickly afoul with Brady's accident. "The Big Show Stopper" is a mystery that will be hard to put down.

Three Devils Dancing
Keith Donnelly
Hummingbird Books
c/o Harrison Mountain Press
PO Box 1386, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
9780895873989, $24.95, www.blairpub.com

The need for a clear thinking mind is a demand that will never be met. "Three Devils Dancing" follows Donald Youngblood, a private investigator who wants to leave murder and crime behind him. A girl turns up dead at a lake and Donald's only lead is her unusual tattoo, and Donald is unsure if that is even relevant. In the pursuit of a killer, Donald only has so much time. "Three Devils Dancing" is a fast paced and riveting read that should prove hard to put down.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Answers to Anorexia
James M. Greenblatt
Sunrise River Press
39966 Grand Avenue, North Branch, MN 55056
9781934716076, $16.95, www.sunriseriverpress.com

Anorexia is a disorder that can destroy lives. "Answers to Anorexia: A Breakthrough Nutritional Treatment That is Saving Lives" looks at one potential treatment to fight the mental and physical disorder of anorexia. Stating that anorexia is a medical illness that encourages malnutrition in the mind instead of a mental illness, Greenblatt offers his own treatment for the disorder. Thoughtful reading with plenty of ideas, "Answers to Anorexia" is a useful text for those trying overcome their own disorders.

Getting Over Going Under
Barry L. Friedberg
Goldilocks Press
PO Box 10336, Newport Beach, CA 92658
9780982916902, $18.95

Anesthesia scares many individuals. "Getting Over Going Under: 5 Things You Must Know Before Anesthesia" is a guide to drug and surgery aid, and how to better understand it. For too long there have been sensations over the misuse of it, which much be approached differently for countless people. The fear of not waking up from application, the fear of waking up too soon are all addressed as Dr. Barry L. Friedberg applies his expertise to spread understanding. "Getting Over Going Under" is a fascinating and very useful read for anyone who might be facing anesthesia in the future.

How to Lose Weight in the Real World
Dr. J. deValentino
DeValentino Publishing
PO Box 420613, Houston, TX 77242
9780982894606, $19.95, www.devalentino.com

No carbs? You know in that bread thing that's everywhere, that rice, potatoes, that's a staple of everything you see everywhere? A fantasy prospect. "How to Lose Weight in the Real World: Why Other Diets Suck and You're Not Losing Weight" is a health guide for those who can't live where their diet is perfectly controlled and can be easily managed with no real issue. With tips on facing down common diet follies, facing temptation, using your metabolism, and more, "How to Lose Weight in the Real World" is a thoughtful guide for those who want to lose weight but aren't ready to embrace delusion.

The Truth About Coffee
Marina Kushner
SCR Inc.
1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd. #232, Hallandale, FL 33009
9780974758251, $14.95, www.scrbooks.com

Coffee has slowly had a controversy brewing up about it. "The Truth About Coffee" delves into the downsides of this caffeine fueled drink that many people have grown dependent on throughout the years. Stating that coffee has many problems that could be drawn as parallels to a drug addiction, "The Truth About Coffee" offers some intriguing dissections and advice, highly recommended.

100 Questions & Answers About Anorexia Nervosa
Sari Fine Shepphird, PhD
Jones & Bartlett Publishers
40 Tall Pine Drive, Sudbury, MA 01776
9780763754501, $19.95, www.jbpub.com

Anorexia is a disorder that can dominate one's life if if isn't overcome. "100 Questions & Answers About Anorexia Nervosa" discusses Anorexia Nervosa, a disorder which commonly affects many young women in today's thin-driven culture. Written by a clinical psychologist with decades of experience, she provides a thorough investigation of this disorder and how to recognize the warning signs. "100 Questions & Answers About Anorexia Nervosa" is a strong addition to health and self-help collections, highly recommended.

Walk Tall! second edition
Sara Meeks
Triad Publishing Company
PO Box 13355, Gainesville, FL 32604
9780937404713, $24.95

One doesn't have to succumb to the cruelties of aging and pain without a fight. "Walk Tall!" is an exercise program aimed at those currently fighting their own back pain and other muscle ailments of aging. Giving a method that she believes will help fight these physical ailments of aging, "Walk Tall!" is a very useful and very highly recommended read, not to be missed.

Nature's Diet
Andrew Iverson
Trillium Health Press
PO Box 9633, Tacoma, WA 98409
9780984472406, $24.95

What's natural for one may not be natural for another. "Nature's Diet: Heal Your Body and Stay Healthy by Following Nature's Simple 21 Day Plan" is a discussion of the nature of one's health and how to find it and live one's life to its higher regard. With a huge slew of tips on how to embrace the power of certain sugars, why meat may be vital for some people, avoiding the chemicals of some food, and more, "Nature's Diet" is a fine read with plenty of sage advice that can help one find that's natural for them for a more complete and better health.

Muscle Explosion
Nick Nilsson
Price World Publishing
1300 W. Belmont Ave., Suite 20G, Chicago, IL 60657
9780972410298, $14.95, www.priceworldpublishing.com

Getting to the most of one's musculature potential only takes a month. "Muscle Explosion: 28 Days to Maximum Mass" is a guide to maximizing one's muscle growth into a short period. With a large assortment of training techniques, dietary suggestions, and much more, for those who want to be ripped to shreds and get to their peak muscle, "Muscle Explosion" is a useful and recommended guide.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Costly Grace
Jon Walker
Leafwood
c/o Abilene Christian University Press
1626 Campus Cort, Abilene, TX 79601
9780891126768, $15.99, www.gracecreates.com

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's 'The Cost of Discipleship' gave a different opinion on religion that shifted the opinion of Christ in World War II Germany. "Costly Grace" analyzes this work decades later as he focuses on Bonhoeffer's work and what it means in today's culture which has totally shifted and morphed. A dedicated and scholarly study and musing on the work, "Costly Grace" is a strong pick for any Christian thinker, very highly recommended.

Why Four Gospels?, second edition
David Alan Black
Energion Publications
PO Box 8411, Gonzalez, FL 32560
9781893729872, $11.99, www.energionpubs.com

Where did the original four gospels of the Bible find their ground? "Why Four Gospels?: The Historical Origins of the Gospels" is a discussion of the history surrounding the four gospels of the new testament, and the work of these figures that they surround. Offering much insight on biblical history, "Why Four Gospels?" is a solid choice for anyone looking for more information in understanding Christianity and its origins.


The Business Shelf

The Communicators
Richard S. Levick
Watershed Press
1900 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780975998533, $29.95

The day to day grind can be done without saying much. It's when the machine stops working well where the great leaders emerge. "The Communicators: Leadership in the Age of Crisis" is an inspirational business read from Richard S. Levick as he provides advice and wisdom from the great leaders in business who have taken a down period and turned it into truly something special for their people. With a foreword from billionaire Steve Forbes, "The Communicators" is a choice pick for anyone who wants to call themselves a leader in business.

I Come First
M. H. Nicholas
Barely Lit Publications
2408 Mackay Lane, Redondo Beach, CA 90278
9780982688809, $21.95, www.icomefirst.com

Self-importance isn't egomania; it's common sense. "I Come First: How the Individual Ego Rules Every Business Decision" is a guide to surviving the business world with a wise reality of the importance of self in business. Facing these principles with reality, M. H. Nicholas states what truly motivates people to go further in their lives and work to further your goals and your businesses. Thoughtful reading, "I Come First" is a business guide with intriguing and highly useful principles, a must for any business person who isn't afraid of thinking outside the box.

Leading at Light Speed
Eric F. Douglas
Inkwater Press
6750 SW Franklin Street, Suite A, Portland, OR 97223-2542
9781592994366, $20.95, www.inkwaterpress.com

Being sluggish in today's world is asking for failure. "Leading at Light Speed: Build Trust, Spark Innovation, and Create a High-Performing Organization" is a guide to agile leadership from Eric F. Douglas drawing on his long experience in many sorts of business to advise readers on how to quickly change their business with the time and how to be a quick thinking leader to lead their company to a more profitable tomorrow. "Leading at Light Speed" is a valuable resource for inspiration, highly recommended.

Minitrends
John H. Vanston
Technology Futures
13740 Research Boulevard, Building C, Austin, TX 78750-1859
9781884154362, $19.95, www.minitrends.com

The most successful people in business are the innovators. "Minitrends: How Innovators & Entrepreneurs Discover & profit From Business & Technology Trends" is a guide for businesses looking for the next trend in business and how it doesn't need to be the next big thing to be a major growth point for industry. Minitrends are small bubbles that can be used, and John Vanston hopes to give readers and business leaders what they need to make a difference. "Minitrends" is filled with useful information and advice on the concept, a vitally important addition to business collections.

The Loyalty Factor
Dianne Durkin
Loyalty Factor
579 Sagamore Ave, Tidewatch Unit #109, Portsmouth, NH 03801
9781453762691, $19.95, www.loyaltyfactor.com

If you care, it shows much more in one's work. "The Loyalty Factor: Building Employee, Customer, and Brand Loyalty" is a guide for managers and other business leaders in making one's brand and company something that both the employees working for you and your customers feel as if it is something that truly matters. Simple steps can be done to inspire these qualities, and Durkin explains it well. "The Loyalty Factor" is not to be overlooked for the small business leader.

Scrappy General Management
Michael Horton
HappyABout
20660 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 210, Cuptertino, CA 95014
9781600051487, $19.95, www.scrappyabout.com

A good manager avoids cataclysmic problems. "Scrappy General Management: Common Sense Practices to Avoid Calamities, Catastrophes, and Lackluster Results for Corporations and Small Businesses" is a guide to avoiding the worst of events as a business leader and facing these problems well. Damage control and facing crisis from within and when facing outward challenges is what management is all about. "Scrappy General Management" is a fine treatise with lots of advice for readers, very highly recommended.

Nice Bike
Mark Scharenbroich
Echo Bay Publishing
5702 Seven Oaks Court, Minnetonka, MN 55345
9780982656204, $19.95, www.nicebike.com

Connecting to others is a guide to find success in any avenue of life. "Nice Bike: Making Meaningful Connections on the Road of Life" is a guide to forming those little bonds that mean so much in the world of business. Through two little words used as an example, the simple phrase of 'nice bike' lets you know that you understand what's important to them, are willing to talk further, and acknowledges them. Stating that connections are so simple yet so important, "Nice Bike" is a business and motivational guide with a clear goal that it does well.

The Termite Effect
Shawn Brodof
Clarity Coaching
PO Box 48177, Charlotte, NC 28269
9780982957806, $19.95, www.thetermiteffect.com

It's the little things that matter in the end. "The Termite Effect: 25 Common Business Mistakes and Their Hidden Consequences" is a business guide focusing on the small mistakes that can take a business down, slowly but surely, over a long period of time. From simple mistakes fo lack of organization, not acting until it's too late, and not balancing your business well, "The Termite Effect" tells of how what you don't see may be the death of your business, highly recommended.

Smoke
Paul Devetter
DG Publications
430 Oak Grove, Street Suite 205, Minneapolis, MN 55403
9780984502905, $24.90

There is much to be learned in business by looking at business as a huge stage production. "Smoke: Pulling Back the Curtain on Change" analyzes business with a flare for the dramatic. Making many analogies and allegory, Paul Devetter gives plenty of valuable business information for gaining a better and more complete understanding of business and much more. "Smoke" is a choice pick, with plenty of creative info, highly recommended.

The Elite Entrepreneur
Ephren W. Taylor
Benbella
10300 N. Central Expressway, Suite 400, Dallas, TX 75232
9781935618058, $19.95, www.benbellabooks.com

No one is a millionaire overnight. "The Elite Entrepreneur: How to Master the 7 Phases of Growth & Take Your Business from Pennies to Billions" is a business guide from Ephren W. Taylor, noted business writer. Drawing on his own experience of growing to a successful business before he hit 30, he shares his experiences and principles where he hopes he will help readers take this advice and learn to face the troubles of their life. Thoughtful and useful reading, "The Elite Entrepreneur" is an out and out excellent read with no shortage of invaluable advice.

The Little Professional P.I.N.K. Book of Success
Erica Moore-Burton
Monday Smiles
PO Box 480293, Los Angeles, CA 90048
9780615313030, $14.95, www.mondaysmiles.com

Being successful is the first step to greater success. "The Little Professional P.I.N.K. Book of Success" is an inspirational guide to help readers reach for a greater sport in their business lives, as Erica Moore-Burton encourages readers to reach for something more in their business lives. Telling the importance of finding a teacher, the importance a good reputation, and much more, "The Little Professional P.I.N.K. Book of Success" is an invaluable read, very highly recommended.


The Philosophy Shelf

Destination of the Species
Michael Meacher
O Books
c/o ASCOT Media Group
PO Box 133032, The Woodlands, TX 77393
9781846942631, $19.95, www.o-books.net

Purpose to an individual means many things, but what is purpose to the greater picture of it all? "Destination of the Species: The Riddle of Human Existence" is a philosophical discussion of the purpose of human kind in the much more massive picture of the universe. Michael Meacher muses about the universe, and looks for without bias, the evidence for God, and what it means for humanity on this little rock floating through space. "Destination of the Species" is a thoughtful and intriguing read, highly recommended.

Metaphysics and the Meaning of Life
Joshua Carl Davis
Three Brothers Press
3317 Normandy Drive, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
9780982883709, $16.99

How does one apply the concepts of metaphysics in their search for meaning? "Metaphysics and the Meaning of Life" is an examination of the metaphysical from Joshua Carl Davis drawing on his own experience with eastern and western philosophies and brings an original take on the relationships between the mind and the body. Thoughtful with plenty to think about, "Metaphysics and the Meaning of Life" is a choice pick for philosophical metaphysics collections.


The Political Science Shelf

Political Logic
Larry Allen Brown
Decent Hill Publishers
6100 Oak Tree Blvd., Ste. 200, Cleveland, OH 44131
9781936085330, $19.95, www.decenthill.com

Why do some people believe the things they believe, and call it rational? "Political Logic: Defeating Conservative Theories of Rationality" is an attack on the trains of thought used by many conservative thinking, and analyzes how they come to such conclusions. Stating that inductive reasoning, a common element in modern American conservative thought, can never prove the belief it claims, Larry Allen Brown presents an intriguing dissection of political thought. "Political Logic" is a fine read with plenty to think about, highly recommended.


The Biography Shelf

Blind Descent
Robert W. Hess
PennTex Books
519 West Avon Court, Laredo, TX 78041
9780615396781, $19.95

Lost in an icy wasteland, one's hope for survival wanes. "Blind Descent" is an exciting true adventure memoir from Robert Hess who crashed into Antarctica as a flight turned sour. Faced with trying to rescue the few survivors of the crash and the terror of trying to survive on a continent that was never intended for human survival, "Blind Descent" is a fascinating and exciting memoir about the tenacity of the human spirit.

The Accidental Anarchist
Bryna Kranzler
Crosswalk Press
PO Box 928723, San Diego, CA 92192-8723
https://www.theaccidentalanarchist.com
9780984556304, $18.00

In a time between many wars and the falls of empires, "The Accidental Anarchist" tells the story of Jacob Marateck, an unusual rogue Jew who found himself leading Russian armies that hated him, into failed coups against the Czar, and taking long trips home. A story of the chaotic times of Eastern Europe in the early 1900s, "The Accidental Anarchist" is a riveting read about one of the truly unique characters and stories of history that is not often heard about.

San Miguel, De Allende, Mexico
Rick Skwiot
Antaeus Books
65 Spoonbill Way Key West, FL 33040
9780982859100, $14.00, www.anteusbooks.com

The spice of life awaits anyone who seeks to find it. "San Miguel, De Allende, Mexico: Memoir of a Sensual Quest for Spiritual Healing" is a tale from Rick Skwiot as he reflects on turning his life around during an extended trip to Mexico and learning what it had to offer him. With a thoughtful approach and no shortage of sensational writing that doesn't skimp on the interesting parts, "San Miguel, De Allende, Mexico" is an excellent blend of travelogue, memoir, and spiritual reading.

The Home for the Friendless
Betty Auchard
Life Stories
c/o Stephens Press
PO Box 1600, Las Vegas, NV 89125-1600
Stephanie Barko (publicity)
16100 Crystal Hills, Austin, Texas 78737
www.LifeStoriesBooks.com
9781935043263, $24.95, www.stephaniebarko.com

Comfort and a good life can come in the weirdest of packages. "The Home of the Friendless: Finding Hope, Love, and Family" is a memoir from Betty Auchard reflecting on her unusual and somewhat broken home life. His parents splitting up multiple time soon lands them in the oddly titled 'Home for the Friendless' where they find quite the security. "The Home of the Friendless" is an unusual but poignant memoir with the important message that happiness can come in many shapes in forms.

3 MPH
Polly Letofsky
Tendril Press
PO Box 441110, Aurora, CO 80044
9780984154326, $19.95, www.tendrilpress.com

It's quite a hike to cover the entire planet. "3 MPH: The Adventures of One Woman's Walk Around the World" is the memoir of Polly Letofsky as she reflects on her journey walking around the world, through 22 countries and covering 14,000 miles. During her travel, the events of September 11th occurred, and granted Polly a truly unique view of the world. Thoughtful and eye opening to the many people of the world, "3 MPH" is a solid and strongly recommended read that shouldn't be missed.

Devil Dolphins of Silver Lagoon and Other Stories
Capt. Michael Bennett
Small Planet Adventures
1903 114th Ave. NE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258
9781452873923, $15.00

Nature photography isn't as simple as it seems. "Devil Dolphins of Silver Lagoon and Other Stories: Adventures of a Reluctant Photographer's Assistant" is a collection of stories as Michael Bennett reflects on what occurs sometimes when these pictures are taken, and while they aren't always pretty, they can prove very amusing. "Devil Dolphins of Silver Lagoon and Other Stories" is an exciting read, not to be missed.

Letters from Under the Mushroom Cloud
Ray Hoy
The Fiction Works
2070 SW Whiteside Drive, Corvallis, OR 97333
9781581242539, $10.99, www.fictionworks.com

The power of a nuclear explosion is truly awe-inspiring. "Letters from Under the Mushroom Cloud" is a collection of letters from Ray Hoy addressed to his late father as he reflected on his time in the military and his viewing of one of the first nuclear detonations in the 1950s. "Letters from Under the Mushroom Cloud" is a poignant look at the military and the early days of the nuclear era.

After the Last PR
Dave Griffin
Flying Feet Running Programs
55 Bonfire Ct., Westminster, MD 21157
9781453725740, $12.95

Long distance running taxes the body and psyche in many ways. "After the Last PR: The Virtues of Living a Runner's Life" is a memoir from Dave Griffin reflecting on the challenges that a runner faces in pursuing their hobby. Stating that it never stopped being a challenge for him, the disciplines it reinforces in its endeavor. Thoughtful and encouraging for others looking to running as a test of their own dedication, "After the Last PR" is a strong choice for any potential runner.

Life With My Wife
Roger Stoner
Shapato Publishing
PO Box 476, Everly, IO 51338
9780982699256, $14.95, www.shapatopublishing.com

Small town life has a serenity all of its own. "Life with My Wife: The Memoir of an Imperfect Man" is a collection of columns for a small town newspaper from Roger Stoner, reflecting on his life alongside his life in Peterson, Iowa. The columns are humorous in nature and come with plenty of simple wisdom. "Life with my Wife" is a read that will be hard to quickly put down, highly recommended.

A Platter of Chatter
Margie Zats
Amber Skye Publishing
1935 Berkshire Drive, Eagan, MN 55112
9780981986067, $16.00, www.amberskyepublishing.com

It's a bit hard facing the full brunt of womanhood. "A Platter of Chatter" is a memoir from Margie Zats as she reflects on her travels around the world, working as a professional chef and what she faced and realized experiencing the world. With recipes scattered throughout, she does plenty in humoring readers and offers much wisdom for life. "A Platter of Chatter" is a fine addition to any library humor collection.

Do Tampons Take Your Virginity?
Marie Simas
Privately Published
9781453799758, $9.75

School shouldn't leave you with more questions than answers. "Do Tampons Take Your Virginity?: A Catholic Girl's Memoir" tells of Mari Simas' upbringing in the sheltered and repressive life of Catholicism. With humor and much honesty, she provides quite the read and will prove quite enlightening and entertaining. "Do Tampons Take Your Virginity?" is a top pick for memoir collections, highly recommended.


The Criminology Shelf

Investigating the Death of Innocents
Michael Orozco
Imago Press
3710 East Edison, Tucson, AZ 85716-2912
9781935437222, $15.00, imagobooks.com

How does one work to uncover the gruesome events of a child's murder? "Investigating the Death of Innocents" is a reflection of his work on one such tragic case in 2007. Covering the events of the case day by day along with the changes in the story surrounding it, author Michael Orozco gives readers a thorough look at the results of tragedy and what is done to prevent it and bring about justice. "Investigating the Death of Innocents" is a fine read with much to think about, highly recommended.


The Self-Help Shelf

Your Personal Success Quote Bible
Lorraine Phillips
360 Books
PO Box 10503, Atlanta, GA 930348-5603
978098227625, $12.50, www.3sixtybooks.com

The first thing about success is believing in yourself that it's possible. "Your Personal Success Quote Bible: Over 1,001 Inspirational Quotes for Daily Living!" is an inspirational read from Lorraine Phillips as she encourages readers to keep their chins up in life. She draws inspiration and quotes from a wide range of advisers from music legend Bob Marley to the works of Confucius and Socrates. "Your Personal Success Quote Bible" is a choice pick for anyone who needs a pick me up in life.

How Much More Longer?
Steve Elder
Pleasant Word
c/o MM Publicity
2817 West End Avenue, Suite 126-274, Nashville, TN 37203
9781414114774, $15.99, www.elderspeaks.com

Life is short and it's not the best idea to waste time not living it your way. "How Much More Longer?: How to Get Real Now About Living the Life You Want" is a guide to pushing one's life int he direction you want it, instead of letting life push you around. A man of experience in a world where everyone learns a bit of everything, Steve Elder gives readers the inspiration they need to take control of their lives "How Much More Longer?" is a thoughtful read and very highly recommended.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Spiritual Transformation
Kathleen Gardiser
Health Esteem Press
240 Monroe Dr. #508, Mountain View, CA 94040
9780984295500, $12.95

When plagued by a constant illness, it can be hard to keep one's chin high. "Spiritual Transformation: Through Chronic Illness" is an uplifting spiritual read aimed at those facing a debilitating illness that plagues their lives, and drains their spirit. With plenty of stories of those facing down the things that ail them and staying strong, Kathleen Gardiser tells readers what they need to get their life back. "Spiritual Transformation" is a thoughtful and recommended read.

SoulCollage Evolving
Seena B. Frost
Hanford Mead
PO Box 8051, Santa Cruz, CA 95061-8051
9781592750214, $26.95, www.soulcollage.com

Art can reflect things that you never even knew were there. "SoulCollage Evolving: An Intuitive Collage Process for Self-Discovery & Community" is a guide to creating a SoulCollage of one's very own to help one understand who they really are in their lives. Too often there are things hidden in our souls that we feel are missing, and Seena B. Frost wants to help readers find that. "SoulCollage" is filled with tips and tricks to creating the collage of one's own, with practical and spiritual tips to be used along the way to creating it.

My Father, My Son
Bruce Brodowski
Carolinas Ecumenical Healing Ministries
13701 Port Patrick Lane, Matthews, NC 28103
9780982658116, $14.99, www.brucebrodowski.com

The need to bond is a strong one for many people. "My Father, My Son: Healing the Orphan Heart with the Father's Love" looks at need to love and be love, through the eyes and thoughts of Bruce Brodowski. Thoughtful, he looks at the value of the father I life and grants readers much to ponder and think about in order to enhance their faith in God. "My Father, My Son" is a spiritual guide with much to ponder, very highly recommended.

Friendship
Laurie Ellis-Young & Nancy Chakrin
Tristan Publishing
2355 Louisiana Avenue North, Golden Valley, MN 55427
9780931674808, $9.95, www.tristanpublishing.com

Friendship is a powerful gift, and can make all the difference in life. "Friendship: The Art of the Practice" is a collection of full color photos and charming affirmations on the topic of friendship, compiled by Laurie-Ellis Young & Nancy Chakrin, as they discuss what a good friend can do for one's life, and what they can do is make it a truly wonderful and positive experience. "Friendship" is a charming volume, solidly recommended.

Elegant Failure
Richard Shrobe
Rodmell Press
2147 Blake Street, Berkeley, CA 94704-2715
9781930485259, $16.95, www.rodmellpress.com

True failure is failing in every sense, but one can fail with grace. "Elegant Failure: A Guide to Zen Koans" is a collection of spiritual musings from Richard Shrobe, also known as Zen Master Wu Kwang. Exploring twenty two cases from previous books to provide a unique look at the nature of man, loss and how he takes it. With plenty of simple thought, "Elegant Failure" is sure to help many readers in finding a bit of enlightenment of their own.


The Poetry Shelf

When You Come Again You Will Never Go
Andreas Morgner
Unlikely Books
500 S. Mesa St. #389, El Paso, TX 79901
9780982293430, $10.00, www.unlikelystories.org

The enlightenment of understanding the world is both comforting and cruel. "When You Come Again You Will Never Go" is a collection of prose and poetry from Andreas Morgner, providing a way for America to see the rest of the world. "When You Come Again You Will Never Go" is a unique read, solidly recommended. "Waterhole, Kruger Park": Hyenas laughing in the dark./Tough music announcing the hunt/Mocking the gazelle and gnu./Run./We are coming./You won't get far./You belong to us tonight./Our bite is a tender kiss./Our appetite is love like no other./Run/You won't get far./We are coming./Mad eyes always mocking,/Always calculating,/Always hungry.

Working Here
David Salner
Rooster Hill Press
230 Armstrong Hall, Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN 56001
9780557508969, $12.95

Experienced poet and experienced man David Salner brings readers a down to earth volume of poetry with "Working Here". Drawing on his time as a miner, a farmer, and other labors as well as his writing, "Working Here" is a unique blend of writing sure to relate to many a reader. "Good Shoes": Good shoes, all of us need good shoes,/for they support us -- ankles, shanks,/even our elbows when we dance,//and the voice at the very top,/the words, the don'ts and dos,/all of it rests on good shoes.

My Gargantuan Desire
Brad Crenshaw
Greenview Review Press
26 South Prospect Street, Suite 8, Amherst, MA 01002-2251
9780965523967, $16.00

What drives us further is something truly unique to us. "My Gargantuan Desire" is a collection of poetry from Brad Crenshaw on the subject of who we are and what pushes us further. Drawing on the various mythologies of the world to gain a more clear understanding of it all, "My Gargantuan Desire" is a fine pick of poetry and is not to be missed with a unique conversational style. "No Other Life": In the end he found his health again and brought us news of the hallucinating pleasures of his opiates/and grand calamitous acts of/heart his rehabilitating roommates proved./Sulamon the clear-eyed/man would steer for Africa and rejoice in his concubines. The Hasid,/as he feared, would tell him good from evil. His own blue voice/spoke of Tina freaked and completely blown away by all his sutures,/by the awkwardness of hearing him eat. What's it worth to know she/left him for a Catholic and missed the parts that healed? Less had changed, he found, than he had changed, as momentary as sound.

Splitting Hard Ground
Marilyn Stablein
La Alameda Press
9636 Guadalupe Trail, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114
9781888809565, $12.00, www.laalameapress.com

The world is vast and it's nearly impossible for one person to see it all alone. "Splitting Hard Ground" is a collection of poetry from prolific author and widely published poet Marilyn Stablein as she offers a take on the world and shares her experiences and journeys. Thoughtful and sure to delight, "Splitting Hard Ground" is a read that shouldn't be overlooked for poetry lovers. "Mourning, Dawn": Sandaled feet etch/a muddy path to the cove./Island children chase each other/follow me to the cliff.//Orphelia chose a watery death./Isadora's children drowned/in a river after their carriage/overturned. You, my child,/had no choice. No water/to douse burning car flames.

Velleity's Shade
Star Black
Saturnalia Books
1 Court Street, Lebanon, NH 03766
9780981859170, $16.00, www.saturnaliabooks.com

Her sixth volume of poetry, Star Black shows no signs of letting up. "Velleity's Shade" is an assortment of poems from Black, as she blends her own words and verse with fellow poet and artist Bill Knott. With plenty of colorful illustrations throughout, "Velleity's Shade" should prove to be quite the treat. "Bridged by Eaves": Ceravolo, it snows. The sky is cotton-cold and unseeming./I bathe to wash away non-feeling./The rice of daylight//whitens the roofs until civilized streets are brambles/on Wang Wei screens--/mists adrift above rose-pink mountains./Ceravolo, fresh snow on wet slate,/long ago is just a sec; no gift is late.

Wisdom of Our Mothers
Eric Bowen
Familia Books
PO Box 326, 1225 East Sunset Drive Suite 145, Bellingham, WA 98226
9781453631010, $14.95, www.familiabooks.com

The determination of a mother is something never to be underestimated. "Wisdom of Our Mothers" is a collection of short stories and poetry written by an assortment of authors about the wisdom and tenacity that their mothers showed throughout their lives and how it inspired them well years later. Intriguing and solidly recommended reading, "Wisdom of Our Mothers" is a charming and thoughtful read, very highly recommended.

I Face My Love
Coemgen
Everush Books
PO Box 153, Pomfret, CT 06258
9780977883332, $11.95

Love changes one's outlook on life forever. "I Face My Love" is a collection of poetry from Coemgen. Stated it is a memoir of sorts, looking at the rollercoaster that is love and marriage. Moving and thoughtful, "I Face My Love" is not a read to be missed. "God's Name": God's name is I AM./All that is from Eternity.


The Aviation Shelf

Aerial Aces of the Universal Newsreel
Phillip W. Stewart
PMS Press
PO Box 1496, Crestiew, FL 32536
9780979324376, $31.95, www.pmispress.com

Man could now fly and it was truly amazing for decades after wards. "Aerial Aces of the Universal Newsreel: A Researcher's Guide to the Aviation Related Stories Released Nationally by Universal Pictures 1929-1931" discusses the amazing newsreels of the early days of flying that Universal studios commonly placed within its films during this era. It was common for an amazing aviation story to be included. Focusing on these daredevils of a new technology, "Aerial Aces of the Universal Newsreel" proves to be a riveting read with plenty of awe-inspiring history.


The Parenting Shelf

The Conscious Parent
Shefali Tsabary
Namaste
PO Box 62084, Vancouver, BC Canada, V6K 1Z1
9781897238455, $19.95, www.namastepublishing.com

How can you lead a young child when you can't even lead yourself? "The Conscious Parent: Transforming Ourselves, Empowering Our Children" is a guide to parenting with an original approach. Stating that a good parent is enlightened to themselves and that a relationship with their child shouldn't be entirely talking down to them, author Dr. Shefali Tsabary encourages parents to learn alongside their children for a better relationship and their own procession to a happier life. "The Conscious Parent" is an excellent read with plenty of ideas, highly recommended.

Mamas and Papas
Alys Masek & Kelly Mayhew, editors
San Diego City Works Press
c/o Sunbelt Publications, Inc.
1256 Fayette Street, El Cajon, CA 92020-1511
9780981602080, $12.95 cityworkspress.org

Parenthood is a decade long endeavor that changes people. "Mamas and Papas: On the Sublime and Heartbreaking Art of Parenting" is a collection of fiction, poetry, essays, and other writings on the subject of parenthood. Focusing on the wide spectrum from the inklings of wanting to have a child to releasing them into the world as adults, these stories are profound and offer much poignancy and humor. "Mamas and Papas" is an excellent read, very highly recommended.

Silent Embrace
Ann & Amanda Angel
Catalyst Book Press
2941 Kelly Street, Livermore CA 94551
9780980208160, $15.00, www.catalystbookpress.com

To give up your child for adoption is something that changes your life forever. "Silent Embrace: Perspectives on Birth and Adoption" is a collection of essays from Ann & Amanda Angel's termed adoption triad, the birth mother, those who adopt, and the adopted. From stories of mothers pondering what could have been, what adoption can do for children and families, as well as birth mothers finding their lost children and the virtues of both closed and open adoption, "Silent Embrace" is a thoughtful collection with much to think about for any mother.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Asphalt to Ecosystems
Sharon Gamson Danks
New Village Press
PO Box 3049, Oakland, CA 94609
9780976605485, $39.95, www.newvillagepress.net

The schoolyards of America can be the first step in teaching the power of growing things. "Asphalt to Ecosystems: Design Ideas for Schoolyard Transformation" is a call for schoolyards to transform their unused grassland and asphalt yards into something more useful and educational. Packed cover to cover with ideas on how to work these gardens and other agricultural aspects into one's schoolyard, Sharon Gamson Danks provides much practical thought for the many uses of such a project. "Asphalt to Ecosystems" is not a read to be ignored for any forward thinking school administrator.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Shelby's Grace
Joe Dwyer
Perennial Press Publishing
41 Hickory Rd, Nutley, NJ 07110
9780615386287, $18.95, www.shelbysgrace.com

Two broken halves can make a whole. "Shelby's Grace: From Abused Pup to Angel of Mercy" is Joe Dwyer's memoir of meeting his pit bull Shelby, a dog with her own problems such as crippled hind legs that required surgery. Joe reached out and assisted the dog, and Joe was in no happy place himself. But through the dog, he gained a greater appreciation for life. Preaching the virtues of man and dog, "Shelby's Grace" is a fine read, very highly recommended.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

The Non-Orthodox Jew's Guide to Orthodox Guide to Orthodox Jews
David Baum
Veracity Press
343 Terhune Avenue, Passaic, NJ 07055
9780615342733, $24.00, www.jewsguide.com

It's easier to write someone off as backwards or look down on them than to reach out. This leads to many problems. "The Non-Orthodox Jew's Guide to Orthodox Jews: Why we Do What We Do, Wear What We Wear, and Think What We Think" is a guide to bridging the rift that has been forming in Judaism as many have reformed and updated their beliefs with the times while Orthodoxy seeks to remain true to the letter of the word of God. Stating that teaching understanding rather than looking down on one another as inferior or backwards can unite the Jewish nation much more than any politics, "The Non-Orthodox Jew's Guide to Orthodox Jews" is an excellent read with plenty of thought and information.


The Women's Studies Shelf

The Working Woman's Rant & Rave Guidebook
Gina Covell Maddox
Orange Cat Press
2654 Bay Street, Gulf Breeze, FL 32663
9780578043944, $12.95, www.orangecatpress.com

Some days just want to make you want to tear someone's head off. "The Working Woman's Rant & Rave Guidebook" looks into the stresses of a woman in today's world and coping with the challenges that are thrown in one's face. With plenty of humor and inspiration, Gina Maddox hopes her writing will empower many women to face their lives and bring a smile to their faces. "The Working Woman's Rant & Rave Guidebook" is a choice pick, recommended.


The Sports Shelf

Performance Nutrition for Football
Lisa Dorfman, MS, RD, CSSD, LMHC
MomentumMedia Sports Publishing, Inc.
31 Dutch Mill Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850
9780984280216, $18.95, www.primeathlete.com

You are what you eat isn't just said to be cute. "Performance Nutrition for Football" discusses how diet proves to be an important edge in the game of football and other sports. Players need to stay fit but emphasize building muscle for speed, power, and athleticism. Drawing on advice from long time NFL veterans, and author Lisa Dorfman's own heavy influences in nutrition, "Performance Nutrition for Football" is a must for any future football hopeful or any future athlete as well.


The Travel Shelf

Argentina
Jill Gibian, editor
Whereabouts Press
2600 Tenth Street, Suitr 260, Berkeley, CA 94710
9781883513191, $14.95, www.whereaboutspress.com

Argentina has gained a unique place in South America with a history unlike its neighbors. "Argentina: A Traveler's Literary Companion" looks at the place of Argentina in World Literature, offering a tour of the country through literature and its modern and most famous writers. Providing a story from one of Argentina's best writers throughout its history, "Argentina: A Traveler's Literature Companion" is an ideal way to know the culture of this Latin state.

Berlin for Free
Verlag an Der Spree
Berlinca Publishing
255 West 43rd, St., Suite 1012, New York, N Y 10036
9781935902409, $9.95

Berlin is one of the most famous cities in the world, and one can absorb its culture without spending a dime. "Berlin for Free: A Guide book to Movies, Music, Museums, and More for the Frugal Traveler" is a guide for touring Berlin for cheap who wants to see the many aspects that one doesn't always see with paid tours and the like. Focusing on the culture and the people, "Berlin for Free" is for anyone who wants to see what it means to be a Berliner first hand.

Over the Top & Back Again
Brandon Wilson
Pilgrim's Tales
PO Box 854, Volcano, HI 96785
9780977053629, $14.95 PilgrimsTales.com

The Swiss Alps are likely one of the most traveled mountain ranges in history, but it doesn't mean they don't offer an adventure all their own. "Over the Top & Back Again: Hiking X the Alps" chronicles Brandon Wilson's own time in the Swiss Alps, he dragged his wife into a truly unique adventure on this mountains, and he provides readers with a story of a most unusual life style. "Over the Top & Back Again" is an exciting read, sure to please and inspire readers to their own mountaineering adventure.


The Education Shelf

Building Sensory Friendly Classrooms
Rebecca Moyes
Sensory World
721 W. Abram St., Arlington, TX 76013
9781935567233, $19.95, www.sensoryworld.com

Some disorders cause problems with standard education, and they're surprisingly common. "Building Sensory Friendly Classrooms: To Support Children with Challenging Behaviors" is an educational guide that discusses sensory processing disorders and their impact on the classroom. Aimed at teachers who want to help educate these children and how to accommodate them, "Building Sensory Friendly Classrooms" is a must for any teacher of young students who wants to be more inclusive.


The Social Issues Shelf

Unmaking War Remaking Men
Kathleen Barry
Phoenix Rising Press
PO Box 9567, Santa Rosa, CA 95405
9780982796702, $17.95, www.unmakingwar.net

War has been an institution of humanity since its creation, but does it always have to be? "Unmaking War, Remaking Men" discusses the future of war and how Kathleen Barry feels that in the future, war will become less and less of an option as diplomatic measures become more and more advanced. Stating that human life shouldn't be considered expendable, "Unmaking War, Remaking Men" is a thoughtful read with plenty to think about, highly recommended.


The Judicial Studies Shelf

A New Way to Win
Tobias Desjardins
Stellar Communications
11271 Ventura Blvd., Suite 271, Studio City, CA 91604
9780578049359, $16.25, www.peacefulsharecustody.com

It's cruel to separate a loving parent from their child. "A New Way to Win: How to Resolve Your Child Custody Dispute Without Giving Up, Giving In, or Going Broke" is a discussion of how to better share custody in divorce case4s which all too often go sour and deny loving parents from their children and leave a lot of heartache all around. With much therapy between the parties and reaffirming what is best for the child, "A New Way to Win" is a thoughtful read with many very good ideas.


James A. Cox
Editor-in-Chief
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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