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Small Press Bookwatch

Volume 9, Number 10 October 2010 Home | SPBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Biography Shelf Fiction Shelf
Travel Shelf Literary Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Education Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Music Shelf Poetry Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Women's Studies Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Parenting Shelf American History Shelf Architecture Shelf
Metaphysical Studies Shelf Military Shelf Business Shelf
Hunting/Fishing Shelf Political Science Shelf Sports Shelf
Philosophy Shelf Money/Finance Shelf Nautical Shelf
Jobs/Careers Shelf Psychology Shelf Economics Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

Ancient Advice for the Second Half of Life
William Martin
The Experiment
260 Fifth Avenue, Suite 3 South, New York, NY 10001-6425
9781615190249 $14.95 www.theexperimentpublishing.com

Some wisdom holds reverence for thousands of years, because it has proven true. "Ancient Advice for the Second Half of Life" is a new interpretation of Lao Tzu's famous Tao Te Ching, a multiple-millennia-old work of wisdom, bringing a Taoist philosophy for those who coming into age, and how to be serene and content in one's older life. "Ancient Advice for the Second Half of Life" is a thoughtful and fascinating take on ancient wisdom, highly recommended.

True Bucketfilling Stories: Legacies of Love
Stacey A. Lundgren
Peace Mountain Publishing, Inc.
2112 Industrial Street, Howell, MI 48844
9780984336609 $12.95

Kindness is contagious. "True Bucketfilling Stories: Legacies of Love" is an inspirational read where Stacy A. Lundgren shares stories of love and how people can spread it. Presenting ten stories of kindness and staying true to the others around you, the first step to making a positive impact is to be a positive person. Uplifting and remarkable, "True Bucketfilling Stories" is a heart-warming collection.

Agile Software Development
Jutta Eckstein
Dorset House Publishing
3143 Broadway, Suite 2B, New York, NY 10027
9780932633712, $33.95, www.dorsethouse.com

Your program may very well hit the shelves and automatically be outdated. "Agile Software Development with Distributed Teams: Staying Agile in a Global World" is a guide to technological agility, the ability to switch your project's goals and features on the fly. From misconceptions about productivity, keeping a team that is strong in communication, staying with the times, and more, "Agile Software Development" is a very valuable read for any technology team leader who fully understands the importance of project agility.

Fit for Love
Billy Sunday mars
The Experiment
260 Fifth Avenue, Suite 3 South, New York, NY 10001-6425
9781615190096, $16.95, www.billysundaymars.com

Some people exercise just for a greater quantity of sex. Billy Sunday Mars has advice for increasing the quality. "Fit for Love" is a fitness guide aimed at enhancing the sexual experience through exercising the muscles commonly used in intercourse and other intimate activities for a healthier body as well as a bonus in the bed room. Encouraging people to exercise as lovers and not fighters, Billy Sunday Mars has much to enrich a couple's fitness techniques, making "Fit for Love" an enticing collection which shouldn't be overlooked.


The Biography Shelf

America Love It Or Leave It So I Left
Adam Bilzerian
Libertad Publications
1300 E. 8th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605
9780615360645, $27.95

Few people make good on their threats, but Adam Bilzerian did. "America: Love It Or Leave It - So I Left" is an expression of dissatisfaction with the American government and how it drove him out of the country and he now calls the Caribbean home. Sick of unnecessary war, petty crime persecution, the abuse of its leaders, and more, he provides a well versed list of grievances with the powers that be in America, making for an intriguing read through and through. "America Love It or Leave It" is a fine read and a solidly recommended one for anyone who has their own dissatisfaction with their government.

A Hamster is Missing
Ed Spivey
Solo Books
2014 Evarts Street NE, Washington, DC 20018
9780578037394, $14.95

Having a political opinion is nice. If you can fit it in while being a parent. "A Hamster is Missing in Washington, D. C. : The Tragedies, Triumphs, and Occasional Misdemeanors of Raising the Bush Years" is a collection of reflections from Ed Spivey Jr. as he reflects on being a father and what it meant to be a father in the first decade of the new millennium. Having not so many kind words for the Bush Administration, Spivey keeps in light in this combination political rant and parenting memoir. "A Hamster is Missing in Washington, D. C." is a fine pick, and a solidly recommended one.

Bright Side of the Road
Anne Marie Bennett
KaleidoSoul Media
PO Box 745, Beverly, MA 01915
9781442173880 $14.95 www.kaleidosoul.com

Cancer is like living with a gun pointed at your head; it's hard to believe you can get through this. "Bright Side of the Road: A Spiritual Journey Through Cancer" is a memoir form Anne Marie Bennett, who upon her diagnosis found that her entire life changed and warped, and she had little believe that her life could ever right itself as it was. A thoughtful and spiritual memoir that Bennett wants to help other women battle their own breast cancer, and makes "Bright Side of the Road" an intriguing and uplifting pick.

Laura's Children
Becky Cerling Powers
Canaan Home
140 Hemley Road, Vinton, TX 79821
9780967213453, $24.00

Faith and determination are just as valuable a resource as money. "Laura's Children: The Hidden Story of a Chinese Orphanage" looks at the history behind an American Farm girl who went to China in the 1920s and 1930s and became a source of salvation for hundreds of children despite having no clear way to support them herself. "Laura's Children" is an intriguing piece of history on faith and good will, highly recommended.

Looks Easy Enough
Scott Stevenson
Deadora Press
10742 Challenge Boulevard, La Mesa, CA 91941
9780984281008, $18.00

Scott Stevenson put off marriage for years, and didn't realize all the fun he was missing. "Looks Easy Enough: A Joyful Memoir of Overcoming Disease, Divorce, and Disaster" are the reflections on the late marriage of Scott Stevenson as he found his wife at age forty six and in the span of few years was smacked by her breast cancer, the raging fires of California, the divorce of her sister, and the recent economic decline. Through it all, he learned that he and his new wife can endure it all, "Looks Easy Enough" is a fun read that shouldn't be overlooked, with much inspiration.

Brave
Helen Rivas-Rose
Periwinkle Publishing
1 Crescent Surf, Kennebunk, ME 04043
9780982743300, $16.95, www.shynessbook.com

Facing your own weaknesses is a key to rising up and controlling one's life. "Brave: A Memoir of Overcoming Shyness" is an inspirational memoir from Helen Rivas-Rose, telling her own story of how she overcame her own shyness to come out of her shell and the difference of night and day it made in her life. Inspirational and thoughtful, "Brave" is a fine read that shouldn't be overlooked for those looking for something to lift their spirits.

As The Sycamore Grows
Jennie Miller Helderman
The Summers Bridgewater Press
1810 Rice Mine Road, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
9780982773208, $16.95, www.amazon.com

Here in the United States there is popular disdain at how Islamic societies treat women. What is often overlook in our 'Christian' country are the hundreds of thousands of women who just as suppressed and controlled, restricted and discriminated against, beaten and abused, as the wives and daughters of Afghanistan or Egypt. "As the Sycamore Grows" by Jennie Helderman is the very real and all-to-common life story of Ginger McNeil, whose husband Mike exerted a patriarchal control in the remote hill country of Tennessee, backed up philosophically by a sense of religious entitlement, and implemented with Bible, guns, and clinched fist. "As the Sycamore Grows" is not just told from Ginger's perspective, but also includes that of Mike, their family, kin, and neighbors. This is a biography of loss that ranges from the death of her son, to the alienation of family members, to a felt betrayal by their Christian church, and so much more. But it is also a life-story of emancipation, personal fulfillment, and escape -- not only from a padlocked cabin in the woods, but from a backwards anti-feminist culture into the broader world of contemporary human rights that is America's mainstream attitudes towards women's rights. Deftly written by an accomplished author, "As the Sycamore Grows" is especially recommended reading for anyone having to deal with their own struggle for personal empowerment against a culture and an husband indoctrinated with the attitude of women as property, should be part of academic library Contemporary Social Issues and Women's Issues resource collections, and community library 20th Century American Biography collections.

Passing It On
Susan G. Baker
Bright Sky Press
2365 Rice Boulevard, Suite 202, Houston, Texas 77005
9781933979847 $27.95 www.brightskypress.com

Passing It On: An Autobiography with Spirit is the autobiography of Susan G. Baker, wife of Secretary of State James A. Baker III. Her public endeavors include working with Tipper Gore and others on a campaign to put warning labels on music albums and CDs with violent, drug-oriented, and sexually explicit lyrics, as well as co-founding what would become the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Passing It On goes beyond the public sector to tell Baker's personal story of divorce, remarriage, and the difficulties of blending eight children (three of hers, four of his, and one of theirs) into a unified family. Passing It On follows the life story of a ranch girl, a devoted Catholic, a dignified stateswoman, and more. An engaging tale of challenges faced and lessons learned - some learned the hard way - Passing It On is absorbing, enlightening, and highly recommended.

Big Jim
Laurence P. Keenan
Jetty House
c/o Peter E. Randall
PO Box 4726, Portsmouth, NH 03802
9780981789880, $25.00, www.perpublisher.com

Just because you aren't on the national stage doesn't mean you can't make an impact. "Big Jim: Mayor of Dover, NH, A Small City North of Boston, 1936-1938" delves into the life of Big Jim Keenan, written by his son Laurence P. Keenan. Both a tribute to his father and analysis of the power of the small town mayor, Laurence discusses how his father made a major impact in two years as mayor in his small town and how his impact is still felt to this day, improving the quality of life of the town for decades to come. "Big Jim" is an intriguing retrospective on small town politics, highly recommended.


The Fiction Shelf

Abe and Molly
Frederic Hunter
Nebbadoon Press
PO Box 91244, Santa CA 93190
9781891331169, $23.95, www.Nebbadoonpress.com

Some relationships are of special construction. "Abe and Molly: The Lincoln Courtship" tells the story of how our inept, timid sixteenth president won the heart of an aristocrat, a match no one thought would work. Frederic Hunter uses this pairing to spin a novel out of it, providing a dramatized look at the relationship between Abraham and Mary Todd. An exciting tale of romance and high society in the first half of the nineteenth century, "Abe and Molly" is a fascinating and fun read.

Dappled Glory
Diane Mechem Kinser
Lucky Press
PO Box 754, Athens, OH 45701
9780984462759, $18.95, www.amazon.com

Set in the coal mine country of Ohio and Pennsylvania, "Dappled Glory: The Black Diamond Heritage" is the story of James Burns, an Irish immigrant who, like so many of his fellows, must content with the dangers of mining and the anti-Irish prejudice of the community. It is also the story of the merchandising empire of the Markham family, builder Fred Hunt and the women that pass in and out of his life. Although a work of impressively written fiction, "Dappled Glory" presents an accurate picture and portrayal of the Appalachian Valley coal region and the circumstances that gave rise to the United Mine Workers of America. The result is a fascinating and entertaining read from beginning to end. Highly recommended for personal reading lists and community library fiction collections, "Dappled Glory" is available in a paperback edition (9780984462759, $18.95). Also highly recommend from Lucky Press is Sarah Martin Byrd's deftly written novel "Guardian Spirit" (9780984462728, $14.95).

Morgan's Pasture
Wallace J. Swenson
Three Muses
4342 NE Hazelfern Place, Portland, OR 97213
9780980141993, $11.95, www.threemusespress.com

The events of childhood are what decides what we become in life. "Morgan's Pasture" is a story of child psychologist Will Border confronting his past as he faces his teenage years and tries to figure out why he became what he is today. With the backdrop of tragedy, "Morgan's Power" asks many questions of life and seeks to offer some answers, highly recommended.

The Ashram
Devashish
InnerWorld
7001 Beargrass Rd., Harmony, FL 34773
9781881717027, $16.00, www.innerworldpublications.com

The modern search for enlightenment is much unlike the search had by the Buddha all those centuries ago. "The Ashram" tells the story of a young yogi looking for enlightenment in modern Los Angeles, the hills of Topanga Canyon in particular. In his journeys he meets many characters with many different problems and outlooks on life, and through author Devashish's story, much is found to be profound in its own unique ways. "The Ashram" is a thought provoking and entertaining read, not to be missed.

I Came Out for This
Lisa Gitlin
Bywater Books
PO Box 3671, Ann Arbor, MI 48106
9781932859737, $14.95, www.bywaterbooks.com

Straight or gay, love has its many twists, turns, and disappointments. "I Came Out for This?" is a novel following the romantic endeavors of Joanna Kane, as she comes out to be honest with her homosexuality, only to be dumped by her dream woman weeks later. Trying to put her whirlwind romances behind her, she finds it hard to love again, but romance may find her again if she can keep her eyes open. "I Came Out for This?" is a fun and engaging read, not to be missed by gay fiction fans.

A Bad Husband
John Hirschberger
Rubin & Meer Publishing
PO Box 460325, San Francisco, CA 94146-0325
9780615336725, $13.95, www.rubinandmeirer.com

A bad husband can mean many things. "A Bad Husband" is a unique story of marriage gone mad, as Bob Neebaum becomes entangled in a lesbian romance as he goes with his ex-wife's lover to hunt her down across the country. In a series of events where nothing is as it seems, "A Bad Husband" is a fun read that shouldn't be missed.

Terminal Policy
Liam McCurry
Ashleigh Publishing Group
PO Box 93, St. Marys, Kansas 66536
9780982551301, $19.95, www.ashleighpublishing.org

Insurance may just mean a different type of insurance altogether. "Terminal Policy" is a thriller following Martin Raker as he's placed against a corruption that seeks out any person or property that is insured and marks it for death or instructions. Throughout the world, things begin to fall apart, as the worlds of insurance and fear begin to intertwine and the world falls apart under it. "Terminal Policy" is a fun and fascinating read that shouldn't be missed.

Roundup!
Paul Andrew Hutton
LaFrontera Publishing
2710 Thomas Ave., Suite 181, Cheyenne, WY 82001
9780978563479, $23.95, www.lafronterapublishing.com

The west will never die in the hearts and minds of these writers. "Roundup!: Western Writers of America Presents Great Stories of the West from Today's Leading Western Writers" is a collection of short fiction from many of today's leading western fiction writers, keeping the spirit of the old west alive with plenty of original takes and thoughts on the subject. For anyone who can't get enough of the old west, "Roundup!" is the first step to being pointed in the right direction.

Glitter Girl
Erin Quinn O'Briant
Lit Books
134 Golden Eagle Lane, Brisbane, CA 94005
9780984581306, $18.95, www.claytowne.com

Two people from the same gene pool can be so different, yet the bonds of family may bring them back together yet. "Glitter Girl" tells the story of two sisters. One is a lesbian who is pushing herself as a model, the other is a right wing posterchild who wants nothing to do with the family. But you can't run away from family forever. "Glitter Girl" is an intriguing take on family and its conflicts.

Jack Brand
John M. Whalen
Pill Hill Press
343 W 4th St., Chadron, NE 69337
9781617060137, $15.99, www.pillhillpress.com

If there is one thing that never changes, it's the lawlessness of the frontier. "Jack Brand" is a futuristic take on the old western story as titular hero Jack Brand travels across the planet of Tulon to find his sister who was kidnapped seven years ago in an ambush. Along the way, his trip won't be easy as he encounters more than his fair share of unusual individuals out to end him, and perhaps the trickiest thing of all, love. "Jack Brand" is an exciting adventure not to be missed.

Fabulous Voyage Across The Ocean Sea
Jay Prasad
Wings Press
120 East 79 Street, Apt. 17C, New York, NY 10075
9781597055765, $17.95

The love of adventure and exploration is not the only reason to join a seemingly doomed expedition. "Fabulous Voyage Across The Ocean Sea" follows The D'Avilas as they travel along with Columbus's journey to flee the Spanish Inquisition, as author Jay Prasad tells a story of travellers finding a new life in a strange and alien place. "Fabulous Voyage Across the Ocean Sea" is a fascinating read of historical fiction, recommended.

Mr. Dickens & Master Betty
Alan Stockwell
Vesper Hawk
172 Trade Street, Lexington, KY 40511
9780956501325, $11.95

In the nineteenth century, a novelist and philosopher were something often one in the same. "Mr. Dicken & Master Betty" delves into the story of two teenagers, one living as a prince, one as a pauper. They are Charles Dickens and Master Betty, also known as Young Roscius. Betty employs Dickens and their relationship isn't the best, but Alan Stockwell uses Dickens as a discussion of the early nineteenth century and makes for an intriguing read. "Mr. Dickens & Master Betty" is a top pick for historical fiction collections.

French Letters
Jack Woodville London
Vire Press
c/o Phenix & Phenix Publicity
8716 Mopac Suite 330, Austin, TX 78759
9780982120712, $15.99, www.virepress.com

Even when bullets aren't being shot overhead, the war is still being fought. "French Letters: Engaged in War" is the first novel in Jack Woodville's World War II trilogy, following an army doctor who finds himself in Normandy and crushed by many moral implications that involve his best friend and those who save his life. A riveting read of the morality and loyalties of war, "French Letters" will prove to be a highly entertaining and riveting read for those who enjoy war fiction.

A Little Death in Dixie
Lisa Turner
Bell Bridge Books
PO Box 300921, Memphis, TN 38130
9781935661900, $15.95, www.bellebooks.com

With the social elite, nothing is ever simple. "A Little Death in Dixie" follows detective Billy Able as he finds himself entrenched in the socialite web of Memphis when one of the elite is missing and it's uncertain if it's another drunken escapade or something far more sinister. With only the help of a mildly concerned sister, Able finds many motives and much more dirty secrets. "A Little Death in Dixie" is a fun mystery of the south, highly recommended.

Plantagenet Plots
K. L. Green
Rubeus Books
144 Ladysmith, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1J4
9780986644146, $19.99

A Man of the Renaissance, Shakespeare had no reservations about looking to history for inspiration. "Plantagenet Plots: Shakespeare's Stories of the Middle Ages" looks at the famous bard's take on the fifteenth century, a hundred years before his own time. His takes on these figures and their actual historical place provide an intriguing discussion of public opinion of them in society. "Plantagenet Plots" is a fascinating blend of literature and history, highly recommended.

Finding Time
Harley Hay
Puzzle Factory Publishing
54 Edgington Avenue,
Red Deer Alberta, Canada, T4R 2K9
9780986523700, $15.00, www.harleyhay.com

Even when split miles apart, friendship is something that remains strong. "Finding Time" tells the story of a union of friends who reunite after a long split and throughout the novel they share the stories of their travels and find that although they have walked different paths, their lives remain similar and reassuring that they are not alone. "Finding Time" is a unique novel from Harley Hay, a solidly recommended read.

Hush
Dave Kress
Mammoth Books
7 South Juniata Street, DuBois, PA 15801
9781595390059, $19.95, www.mammothbooks.org

Finding something when you've got nothing is no easy task. "Hush" follows young and destitute Reanne as she searches through Awnry, Massachusetts for some sort of meaning and faith in her life, and eventually finds some sort of faith, although it's nothing like she'd expect. Offbeat, quirky, thoughtful, and fun, "Hush" is a fine choice for many a reader.

9 Lives, Full Circle
Jan Crossen
Dragon Publishing
PO Box 915, Lopez Island, WA 98261
9780979868641, $12.95, www.dragonpublishing.net

Everything can still be going your way but your still faced with the problems of life. "9 Lives, Full Circle" is the story of adopted teen Joshua Carson who is faced with the challenge of finding his birth family and realizing what he wants to do with his life. The challenges of life may yet grind him and his talents down, and "9 Lives, Full Circle" is an intriguing read for younger readers.

Countdown to Armageddon / A Stranger in Paradise
Edward M. Lerner
Wildside Press
9710 Traville Gateway Dr. #234, Rockville, MD 20850
9781434406743 $14.95 www.wildsidebooks.com

When you want entertainment, sometimes one book isn't enough. "Countdown to Armageddon/A Stranger in Paradise" combines 2 novels into one book. In Countdown to Armageddon, Hezbollah attains a nuclear weapon, but unbeknownst to the world, it may not be used for modern terror, but something else entirely. A Stranger in Paradise is a compilation of five short fiction stories with plenty of topics. "Countdown to Armageddon/A Stranger in Paradise" is a top pick for anyone looking for exciting fiction on a budget.

For the Love of Art
Janet Goodfriend
Painted Wood Press
PO Box 1006, Upton, MA 01568
9781452856018 $16.00 www.janetgoodfriend.com

Mothers still need a bit of time to themselves, but some retreats aren't all that relaxing. "For the Love of Art" tells the story of three mothers and friends as they spend their time in Martha's Vineyard and get embroiled in an art theft plot with plenty of unusual and fascinating characters surrounding them. A story of adventure in middle age, "For the Love of Art" is not to be overlooked.

The Oath
E. Gaylon McCollough
Argus Enterprises
PO Box 914, Kernersville, NC 27285
9780984514250, $22.95, www.a-argusbooks.com

When a president betrays his own country, it doesn't look like it has much hope. "The Oath" tells the story of Dr. Mason Edwards, a man who becomes president after being twelfth in the line of succession, when everyone above him departs in a massive conspiracy. Finding himself matched against the Illuminati, America's very structure might be crushed by a New World Order. An exciting thriller full of twists, turns, and deceit, "The Oath" is a fascinating read that shouldn't be missed.

The Tea Goddess
Dekker Dreyer
Fringe Majority
5042 Wilshire Blvd #14018, Los Angeles, CA 90036
9780982729601, $10.99

The environment will continue to be walking a thin line years in the future. "The Tea Goddess" is an eco-thriller that blends new age spirituality and the urge to get by and pit them against an all powerful government that seeks to control the world. With plenty of exciting characters and an original message for today's world, "The Tea Goddess" is an intriguing and fast paced read not to be missed.

The Crown in the Heather
N. Gemini Sasson
Cader Idris Press
5085 W. Jackson Rd., Enon, OH 45323
9780982715802 $13.99 www.ngeminisasson.com

To be the ruler of the land was the ultimate prize of nobility. "The Crown in the Heather" is the first book of the Bruce trilogy, following the Bruce family as they are embroiled in the British Isles noble affairs at the end of the thirteenth century. Robert the Bruce is split between the crown and love, as must compete with not only his family's rivals in Scotland, but the clan of the King of England. "The Crown in the Heather" is a riveting read for fans of medieval intrigue fiction.

Ticket to Ride
Philip Scott Wikel
Julian Day Design and Publishing
750 Highland Dr. #124, Ojai, CA 93023
9781450588270 $8.95 philipscottwikel.wordpress.com

Adulthood wasn't easy when everyone around you wanted you to destroy what adulthood was. "Ticket to Ride" is a novel telling the story of Morgan and Livy coming to adulthood during a time where revolutions of all types were coming ahead and so many messages were going around, no one knew who to follow or believe. "Ticket to Ride" is an exciting read with its own take on the 1960s and 1970s, very highly recommended.

Queen of Cities
Andrew Novo
Coffeetown Press
PO Box 70515, Seattle, WA 98127
9781603810760 $18.95 coffeetownpress.com

The heart of the Eastern Roman Empire, Constantinople has always been a major power to control. "Queen of Cities" is a novel of an invasion by a Turkish Sultan and his plots to conquer the future Istanbul, telling a story of high adventure, intrigue, and suspense that one has learned to expect from the Middle Ages and early Renaissance. More than delivering, "Queen of Cities" is a core addition to any historical fiction collection.

What's Good for You is Good for Me
Michael Morshed
YouSophic Publishing
PO Box 296, Amherst, NH 03031
9781450726139, $13.00

Finding justice and piece of mind are no simple tasks. "What's Good For You is Good for Me" is a novel following Billy as he is on the hunt for a plane hijacker who fled to Cuba. With the help of an eccentric Sea Captain, Billy is brought into an unusual family drama and finds more than what he's looking for in Cuba. "What's Good for You is Good for Me" is a fun and exciting read, not to be missed.

A Lighter Shade of Gray
Devon Pearse
Neverland Publishing
24 NW 102nd Street, Miami, FL 33150
9780982697108, $16.95, www.neverlandpublishing

No one is perfect, and no one is without value. "A Lighter Shade of Gray" tells the story of Devon, a woman with much baggage in her life, fearing that she will one day fall into the mental illness that has befallen her mother. Her situation is made worse when her best friend becomes embroiled in a murder investigation, and Devon believes her to be lying about her involvement. A story of deception, betrayal, and facing the mistakes of one's past while dealing with the future, "A Lighter Shade of Gray" is a riveting read that has much to make readers think.

The Unpleasantness at Parkerton Manor
Barry S. Brown
Sunstone Press
239 Johnson Street, PO Box 2321, Santa Fe, NM 87504-2321
9780865347656, $22.95, www.sunstonepress.com

Some women will shun the label of housewife. "The Unpleasantness at Parketon Manor" tells the story of the widow of a constable, who takes up the law into her own hands by creating a private consulting detective agency. Mrs. Hudson uses the famed Sherlock Holmes as a figurehead and front for her operations, and she embraces the sleuth lifestyle and finds a murder among her first cases. An exciting mystery of Victorian England, "The Unpleasantness at Parkerton Manor" is a read that shouldn't be missed.

Fatal Incision
WR Park
Black Rose Writing
2250 Military Road, Tonawanda, NY 14225
9781935605362, $18.95, www.blackrosewriting.com

The rampage of a serial killer can put an entire city on edge. "Fatal Incision" is a mystery of the figure of Jack the Ripper and the detectives of Scotland Yard. Looking at the fate of the killer never found, WR Park gives readers a riveting take on the mythology of Jack The Ripper, presenting a tale where Jack the Ripper flees to America and the search for Justice over international borders. "Fatal Incision" is a fine and fun read, that shouldn't be missed by mystery fans.

Flying Fish
Vern Hobbs
Aberdeen Bay
5676 Ridge View Drive, Alexandria, VA 22310
9781608300327, $15.95, www.aberdeenbay.com

When your town's foundation and livelihood is banned, it can be hard to find a new way to live. "Flying Fish" tells the story of a small fishing town in the face of a fishing ban. The town seems certainly doomed, but hope for them may still come in the form of two unusual strangers and a ghost urging simple 'Smiley' Randolph to embrace the strangers and their philosophy. An intriguing read of hope in strange sources, "Flying Fish" is a choice pick, not to be missed.

Marvellous Hairy
Mark A. Rayner
Monkeyjoy Press
46 Duchess Ave., London, ON Canada N6C 2N1
9780986662706, $12.99, www.monkeyjoypress.ca

Who needs humanity when you got everything else you could want? "Marvellous Hairy" tells the story of Nick Motbot, a novelist who finds his DNA being tampered with and has seemed to enjoy monkeying around more appealing than it once was. With much humor and an absurdist tint on many ideas, Mark Rayner presents a novel where humanity is optional, raging against the machine is a good idea, and the upsides of life as a lower primate. "Marvellous Hairy" is a top pick for any humorous fiction collection, highly recommended.

In Sorrow All Our Days
Christopher Burns
The Seashell Press
28 Skytop Road, Ipswitch, MA 01938
9780976886600, $15.95, www.insorrowallourdays.com

You have to be a little crazy to fully appreciate art. "In Sorrow All Our Days" is a novel following an eccentric artist called Marigold as she and her boyfriend, a somewhat respectful individual destined for law school, are on the run from those who would keep them apart. Along the way, Marigold leaves murals brining her own vision to the reality of the garden of Eden. A compelling story of love, art, and order, "In Sorrow All Our Days" is a powerful read, and very highly recommended.

Crossing to Tadoussac
Frederick E. Bryson
8th House Publishing
8891 Verville, Montreal, QC H2N 1Y1 Canada
9781926716008 $21.88 www.8thHousePublishing.com

In a time of rapid change, it can be a confusing time to grow up. "Crossing the Tadoussac" is a coming of age novel of the Quiet Revolution, the 1960s era where there was much religious upheaval that secularized Quebec society. Through this time, a young girl becomes a woman and finds a split of worlds and eras, and understands maturity isn't easy. "Crossing to Tadoussac" is a poignant read and a very highly recommended one.

The Norton Case
Jackson Bass
Duckboat Books
PO Box 1017, Hayward, WI 54843
9780984149919, $15.95, www.jacksonbass.net

A bigger piece of the pie is something worth killing for. "The Norton Case" is a mystery-thriller following Leland E. Denton as he is faced with the law entrenched story of the Norton estate. In a story involving Native American spirits, the grandson of Al Capone, and a family out to eliminate one another, "The Norton Case" is a riveting mystery of many angles, and a book hard to put down.

Courting Constance
Teryl Cartwright
Vintage Romance Publishing
PO Box 1165, Ladson, SC 29456-1165
9780981989693, $15.99, www.terlcartwright.com

Losing love can be something hard to accept. "Courting Constance" is a romance as Constance Afford pursues Sir Geoffrey to recover her fiance from the pursuits of his other admirers. Both sides feel the pain of past rejection and find it it hard to forgive and forget, and with other women in the picture, forgiveness seems even harder. "Courting Constance" is a fine read for those who enjoy Victorian-inspired romances, highly recommended.

Journeywoman
Mary Lou Gediman
Brandylane Publishers Inc.
5 South First Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219
9781883911959 $16.95 www.brandylanepublishers.com www.marygediman.com

Secluding yourself from the world only puts off the inevitable. "Journeywoman" tells the story of Margaret Lerner, a divorced woman who lives a sheltered light. But when she meets a Native American spirit guide, she learns she must face the past, including a dark secret of her father, his place in the murder of two policemen decades ago. "Journeywoman" is an intriguing take on facing the past, recommended.

Secrets
Barbara Becker Holstein
Enchanted Self Press
170 Morris Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740
9780979895210, $8.95, www.pathwaybook.com

Some things are meant to be shared with the world, others are meant to be kept to oneself. "Secrets: You Tell Me Yours and I'll Tell You Mine... Maybe" is a novel of understanding the importance of secrets told from the perspective of a teenage girl. Facing a new school, a new sibling, new love, and new everything, "Secrets" is a fun read that will charm many a young reader as they face a pile of secrets of their own.

Red Hand
Robert Ross
Mach4 Press
1032 2nd Street, Suite 202, Santa Monica, CA 90403
9780966958867, $18.95

A question that crossed the mind of many of mixed heritage, what is the white man really? "Red Hand: American by Blood " tells the story of a half-white, half-Sioux man who is raised by the Sioux. As he reaches adulthood, he wonders what of his white heritage, and travels through the East coast in the 1870s to find out where he came from. A unique take on American-Indian relations, "Red Hand" is a choice read, not to be missed.

She Nailed a Stake Through His Head
Tim Lieder
Dybbuk Press
516 W 188th Street, #25, New York, NY 10040
9780976654674, $12.75

The Bible isn't a G-rated affair. "She Nailed a Stake Through His Head" is a collection of stories inspired by the more debauch stories within the Bible, the stories of the things that incur God's wrath. The raving of questionable people of the cloth, violence of the spurned, the dark arts, and more, Tim Lieder brings readers stories with a dark tint on the Holy book, making for an intriguing read. "She Nailed a Stake Through His Head" is a choice pick for any unique fiction collection.

A War of Her Own
Sylvia Dickey Smith
Crickhollow Books
3147 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207
9781933987118, $16.95, www.crickhollowbooks.com

Being a woman in the workplace rarely proves easy. "A War of Her Own" tells the story of Bea Meade, a woman who during World War Ii attempts to earn her place in a wartime shipyard in Orange, Texas. Life seems to be going well for the town, but Bea tries to establish herself for a career, and her husband doesn't seem to be helping her. "A War of Her Own" is a fine tale of the struggle of women during World War II.

Hitchhiking After Dark
Richard Hill
Gale Force Press
PO Box 374, Sault Ste. Maria, MI 49783
9780981737195, $17.95, www.galeforcepress.com

Separated from the world, people make their own thoughts and customs for the world. "Hitchhiking After Dark: Offbeat Stories from a Small Town" is a collection of stories from Richard Hill looking at the small town life and the intriguing characters one encounters through their small town life. From bootlegging, piracy, fatalists, and more, Hill brings an entertaining brand of humor that any Michiganite or Small town liver will recognize and enjoy. "Hitchhiking After Dark" is a fine collection, very highly recommended.


The Travel Shelf

Trekking the Globe with Mostly Gentle Footsteps
Irene Butler
Granville Island Publishing
212-1656 Duranleau, Vancouver, BC V6H 364
9781894694797, $19.95, www.granvillepublishing.com

The world is a big one and everyone should try to see it, if only once. "Trekking the Globe with Mostly Gentle Footsteps: Twelve Countries in Twelve Months" looks into the traveling times of baby zoomers Irene and Rick Butler as they sought o travel around the world for the same cost as they would staying at home. With plenty of wisdom they learned through the world and lots of practical tips, "Trekking the Globe with mostly Gentle Footsteps" is a fine read and a top pick for anyone plotting their own international journey.


The Literary Shelf

The Essential Rebecca West
Rebecca West
Pearhouse Press
7035 Meade Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15208
9780980235555, $14.95, www.pearhousepress.com

Some people have more than a way with words. "The Essential Rebecca West" is a collection of work from acclaimed writer and voice Rebecca West, whose work with feminism and interviews with various figures throughout history earned her a title from the British Empire in 1959. An esteemed novelist, the work of Rebecca West proves to be an intriguing collection, making "The Essential Rebecca West" a collection that simply shouldn't be missed for literary collections. Also in fiction from Pearhouse Press, is "Video Verite" (9780980235531, $12.95) a collection of short fiction from acclaimed TV writer William Petrick.

A Life on Paper
Georges-Olivier Chateaureynaud, author
Edward Gauvin, translator
Small Beer Press
150 Pleasant Street, Suite 306, Easthampton, MA 01027-1875
9781931520621 $22.00 www.lcrw.net

Some people excel so excellently at literature, that they surpass national boundaries. "A Life on Paper" is a collection of fiction from Georges-Oliver Chateaureynaud, a French writer whose work has been compared with famed American writer Kurt Vonnegut. A wide assortment of work focusing on the life and work of the everyday man, his stories will speak well across borders and resonate well. "A Life on Paper" is not to be missed for lovers of world literature and short fiction.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Biography of a Breast
Jay Agarwal, Anne Vinsel, Ravinder Ahluwalia, Leigh Neumayer
University Health Services
1950 Circle of Hope, Rm. 6500, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
9780615382203, $39.95

A mastectomy is something no woman ever wants to face, but in the face of cancer, it may prove necessary. "Meet Virginia: Biography of a Breast" follows Shauna as she faces Breast cancer and the mastectomy and the process surrounding it. Through the book, the process is detailed with full color photographs throughout as many experts explain the process, as well as Shauna herself. Designed to empower those who may be facing the endeavor and comfort them, the authors of "Meet Virginia" will donate the proceeds to further breast cancer research.

The Healthcare Survival Guide
Martin B. Rosen & Abbie Leibowitz
Health Advocate Publishing
3043 Walton Road, Suite 150, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
9780984069606, $6.96, www.healthadvocate.com

Healthcare is expensive, and that fact is the foundation of the recent raging debate. "The Healthcare Survival Guide: Cost-Saving Options for the Suddenly Unemployed and Anyone Else Who Wants to Save Money" is a guide for getting the healthcare one needs to stay healthy while not going into bankruptcy like so many others. With tips on when it's safe to cut corners, how to get freebies, and more, "The Healthcare Survival Guide" is for any seeking healthcare and want it cheap.

The Remarkable Story of Copaxone
Kenneth P. Johnson
DiaMedica Publishing
150 East 61st Street, New York, NY 10065
9780982321942, $14.95, www.diamedicapub.com

Medical scientists push themselves further for the cures of tomorrow. "The Remarkable Story of Copaxone: An Approach to the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis looks at the studies and research that went into Copaxone, a drug that was created to combat multiple sclerosis, a disease that affects millions of many age. For the past fifteen years, it has proven effective and now Johnson tells how it was created. "The Remarkable Story of Copaxone" is an intriguing story of drug research and its importance.

Taking Antidepressants
Michael D. Banov, MD
Sunrise River Press
39966 Grand Avenue, North Branch, MN 55056
9781934716069 $16.95 www.sunriseriverpress.com

Antidepressants can be a necessary, but dangerous need. "Taking Antidepressants: Your Comprehensive Guide to Starting, Staying On, and Safely Quitting" is a guide to the importance and the dangers of antidepressants, as Michael Banow, a medical director with much experience with behavioral medicine, gives a comprehensive outline of how to start taking the medication, take it safely, and how to wean oneself off it gradually when the problem is taken care of. "Taking Antidepressants" is a useful reference for those who want to understand the details of antidepressants.

Whole Health Healing
Thomas Potisk
Maven Mark Books
1288 Summit Ave., Suite 107, 115 Oconomowoc, WI 53066
9781595980694, $24.95, www.mavenmarkbooks.com

Staying healthy doesn't mean you have to break the bank. "Whole Health Healing: The Budget-Friendly Natural Wellness Bible" discusses how to deal with the common ailments one encounters such as arthritis, good exercises, aging well, problems with modern healthcare and instilling good habits on one's children. A more engrossing approach to health for oneself and their family, "Whole Health Healing" is a useful and powerful resource.

Hypochondriac's Handbook
Ian Landau
Skyhorse Publishing
555 Eighth Avenue, Suite 903, New York, NY 10018
9781602399709, $12.95, www.skyhorsepublishing.com

There are oh so many things out to end your life in painful and utterly gruesome ways. "Hypochondriac's Handbook: For the Treatment of Syndromes, Diseases, and Ailments that Probably Should Have Killed You by Now" is a guide to the unusual ailments that exist and how they are all out to get you and ruin and/or end your life. With a humorous slant, Ian Landau brings readers a look into diseases that can be as minorly inconvenient as making you talk a different accent, to turning your entire body to a bone statue. "Hypochondriac's Handbook" is a fun read, or a resource for the easily panicked.

Derailed: Memoirs of a Botched Hysterectomy
Jaimi Taylor
Aauvi House Publishing Group
250 West El Camino Real, #1410, Sunnyvale, California 94087
9781884573224 $27.95 http://www.aauvi.com

Malpractice is a terrible thing that sends people through hell and high water. "Derailed: Memoirs of a Botched Hysterectomy" is a memoir from Jaimi Taylor, whose botched hysterectomy led her to losing nearly half a million dollars in medical bills, traveling to many hospitals and claimed nearly three weeks of her life. Faced with doctors who wouldn't fess up to their mistakes and the hospitals that protected them, this is a riveting take on what could happen to any woman. "Derailed" is a fine read and solidly recommended.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Live Free or Die
Jessie Crockett
Mainly Murder Press
PO Box 290586, Wethersfield, CT 06109-05986
9780982589960, $15.95, www.jessiecrockett.com

Small towns seem so peaceful and nice, until their dark secrets are revealed. "Live Free or Die: A Granite State Mystery" tells the story of volunteer fire chief Gwen Fifield as she pits herself against an arsonist in her small town of Winslow Falls, New Hampshire. When the populace blames immigrants, she finds that it may not be the outsiders, but someone with a darker history. "Live Free or Die" is an intriguing mystery, not to be missed.

Where Gable Slept
Irene Bennett Brown
Riveredge Books
PO 75, Jefferson, Oregon 97352
9780980155877 $14.95 www.irenebennettbrown.com

With destruction on mind, it can be sometimes hard to stop it. "Where Gable Slept" is a mystery placing tour guide Celia Landrey as she faces a woman seeking to destroy her town's major attraction, a home where legendary actor Clark Gable once lived. With the law backing the woman's cruel intentions, Celia has to act fast to save her town's history and her own livelihood. "Where Gable Slept" is an exciting thriller and mystery, sure to entertain many a reader.

The I Can't Get Enough Club
Mark B. Weiss
Benjamin Mandel Publishing Company
2442 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614
9781439269107 $14.99 www.benjaminmandel.com

Not every meeting of two starry eyed men and women results in romance, it can very well the polar opposite. "The I Can't Get Enough Club" tells the story of two second generation immigrants with high hopes for their future. Fran and Sonny, two overly ambitious individuals find each other at one another's throats over money and the desire to succeed. A novel with plenty of intriguing characters and events, "The I Can't Get Enough Club" is quite the read and a solidly recommended one.


The Education Shelf

Homework Made Simple
Ann K. Dolin
Advantage Books, LLC
3268, Arcadia PI NW, Washington, DC 20015
9780971460980, $14.95, www.advanagebooks.net

Everyone hates homework, but it's a necessary evil in life. "Homework Made Simple: Tips, Tools, and Solutions for Stress-Free Homework" is a guide for students who want to make their home education a much less daunting task as well as a more fulfilling tool to further one's education. With no shortage of tips, "Homework Made Simple" is a top pick for anyone who wants to bring learning home and make it work for them.

The Five-Year Party
Craig Brandon
Benbella
6440 N. Central Expressway, Suite 503, Dallas, TX 75206
9781935251804, $14.95, www.benbellabooks.com

Has college turned away from education and just been a non-stop drunken stupor? "The Five-Year Party: How Colleges Have Given Up on Educating Your Child and What You Can Do About it" analyzes the failings of modern colleges and how many schools have turned away from economic standards. Often schools have fallen to the wayside in preparing students for career, and Craig Brandon gives a thoughtful and analytical view of the problems of today's colleges. "The Five-Year Party" is a much needed criticism of modern schools, highly recommended.

Common College Sense
James Pannafino
Assiduous Publishing
120 Kilgannon Lane, Lancaster, PA 17603
9780982634806, $12.95, www.commoncollegesense.com

College is a time where there is no time. "Common College Sense: The Visual Guide to Understanding Everyday Tasks for College Students" is a guide to the many details of life that people face when shoved out into the real world. With plenty of tips and dos and don'ts on dealing with the details of adult life and avoiding the stuff that won't fly now that you're out of high school. "Common College Sense" is a fine gift to anyone just starting their higher academic career.

Did You Ever Have the Teacher...
Nelson M. Russell
Navigating Learning
PO Box 714, Williamstown, MA 01267
0975377604, $14.95, www.navigatinglearning.com

A teacher is a major figure in many lives and we remember some fondly, and some with spite. "Did You Ever Have the Teacher...Stories from People Who Survived Their Education" is a collection of short memoirs as several former students remember the teachers who made major differences in their lives, for the better or worst. Encouraging readers to reflect on their school time and for teachers to self-reflect, "Did You Have The Teacher" is a fine read with a lot to teach, highly recommended.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

First Pet
Associated Press
450 West 33rd Street, New York, NY 10001
9780984192700, $15.00

The First Dog has become quite the interest for dog lovers in recent history. "First Pet: The Presidents and Their Beloved Canines, Felines, and Other Four-Legged Creatures Who Made Their Home at the White House" looks at the history of the country through the animals owned by the presidents. From the early days where the pets were work animals who had to earn their stay at the white house to recent presidents where the pets have a cult of personality all their own. "First Pet" is a fun read for any pet lover, highly recommended.

The Not Without My Dog Resource & Record Book
Jenny Pavlovic
8 State Kate Press
5381 St. Croix Trail South, Afton, MN 55001
9780984477203 $28.95 www.8StateKate.net

A dog is a living creature with its own history and personality like anything else. "The Not Without my Dog: Resource & Record Book" is a workbook designed for someone to compile the details of their dogs life such as what they like and dislike, their medical history, among other things. Also throughout the book are plenty of tips for dog care, for making the friendship of man and dog a more beneficial one to both parties. "The Not Without my Dog Resource & Record Book" is a top pick for anyone who loves their dog and wants the best care for them.

Equiknowlogy 101
Smokie Brannaman
Horseman's Services Limited
1724 Mill Road, Greenleaf, WI 54126
9780979144639, $16.95, www.smokiebrannaman.com

Horses have always had a special place in people's hearts. "Equiknowlogy 101..." is a guide to horse ownership and care, covering the many details of care and understanding horses while using a bit of humor on the matter. Scholarly researched with plenty of advice and wisdom for both novices and those who are a bit more experienced on the matter, "Equiknowlogy 101..." is a good resource for horse owners and would be horse owners.

Horse Photography
Carol J. Walker
Painted Hills Publishing
16500 Dakota Ridge Rd., Longmont, CO 80505
9780981793627, $19.95, www.horsephotographyworkshops.com

Horses have attained a fantastical place in the imaginations of many. "Horse Photography: The Dynamic Guide for Horse Lovers" is a guide to how to most complete capture the horse in photography. From creating majestic imagery to capturing the details that aren't often seen, Carol Walker gives readers everything they need to know with technical details to capture truly magnificent and poignant photographs of horses. "Horse Photography" is a top pick for any horse lover with a photography hobby, highly recommended.


The Music Shelf

Sinatra Singing
Richard Grudens
Celebrity Profiles Publishing
PO Box 344 Main Street, Stony Brook, NY 11790-0344
9780976387787, $29.95

Frank Sinatra is one of the most influential musicians of the twentieth century. "Sinatra Singing" looks at Sinatra and his massive impact on music, as Richard Grudens discusses the men around Sinatra, his career, and the people he worked with as well as the people he inspired years later even after his career winded down. With thoughts on swing, and singing in general as well as other aspects of the big band music, "Sinatra Singing" is a must for the Sinatra fan or for any musical biography collection.

The Artist's Guide to Success in the Music Business
Loren Weisman
Book Publishers Network
PO Box 2256, Bothell, WA 98041
9781935359333, $19.95, www.bookpublishersnetwork.com

The artistic mind doesn't always lend itself to business. "The Artist's Guide to Success in the Music Business" is the first volume of a guide from Loren Weisman to help musicians get their music careers off on the right foot to help them move away from their starving artist who works full time between gigs to a full fledged professional musician. "The Artist's Guide to Success in the Music Business" is a choice read for any aspiring music superstar.


The Poetry Shelf

Moon Flowers on the Fence
Judith Bader Jones
Finishing Line Press
PO Box 1626, Georgetown, KY 403249
9781599245881, $14.00, www.finishinglinepress.com

Kansas City native Judith Balder Jones comes to readers with a chapbook, "Moon Flowers on the Fence". With a previous volume of fiction to her credit, she branches out well into poetry and provides much to ponder gives readers quite the sampling of her wisdom. "Moon Flowers on the Fence" is a choice pick and very highly recommended. "Count Down": I repeat names at night,/instead of counting sheep;/Father, Nana, Michael,/David Ann, and Phil/The world barely blinked/at their demise; a notice/in the newspaper, recycled/that same day. Retrieved/names, engraved in grief,/sleepless nighttime countdown.

Fault Lines
Tim Hunt
The Backwaters Press
3502 North 52nd Street, Omaha, NE 68104-3506
9781935218166, $16.00

Expecting perfection out of something built on fault lines is just naive. "Fault Lines" is a collection of poetry from Tim Hunt as he provides his own view of the legend and mythos of the California lifestyle, reflecting on desert life and how it's lived. Charming, humorous, and poignant, "Fault Lines" is a collection of poetry that shouldn't be missed. "Listening": There is a silence beneath the stories/where we learn the things that matter most./It is like walking in a garden./There are sculptures.//At first we see the objects, each/beautiful in turn -- gray//curves of rock, the planes/of welded steel. Only later/do we begin to hear/the passing clouds.

Weary Blues
Maureen A. Sherbondy
Big Table Publishing
9780984247387 $12.00 www.bigtablepublishing.com www.maureensherbondy.com

What we keep private from the world are things you don't know how the world would react to. "Weary Blues" is a collection of poetry from Maureen A. Sherbondy, as she composes work to poke into our private mind and what we keep from the world until we have no other choice. Thoughtful and thought provoking, "Weary Blues" is a fine collection. "Despair": Caught in despair, knowing one small seismic shift/might swallow her whole.//All those neat little seams splitting/at the sun rises again/in spite of what she's said or done.

Christopher Sunset
Geoffrey Nutter
Wave Books
1938 Fairview Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98102
9781933517445, $14.00, www.wavepoetry.com

Award winning and prolific poet Geoffrey Nutter brings readers another fine edition with "Christopher Sunset" a collection coming to readers with plenty to think about and ponder about international affairs, family, and coming of age. "Christopher Sunset" is another choice addition to any poetry collection, highly recommended. "The Alliance": A staple remover and a padlock,/left on a rotting green table/on a windblown strand beside the sea,/at dawn, at the notion of the bugbear sun/lighting waves cerise upon the waters,/found themselves beside each other,/found a closeness more alien than day/to the Nightwoman Onofra and her dark/apron stained cerise - Onofra.../Onofra/Calabaza. A padlock and a thing/to take out staples -- both bright and single-minded/in the dawn subjects/of a common master -- two alien things/in alien dawn, somehow in alliance.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

The Black Death
Marion Polk Angellotti
Black Dog Books
1115 Pine Meadows Ct., Normal, IL 61761-5432
9781928619895, $24.95, www.blackdogbooks.net

When your devotion to a cause is gold, one often finds the money is good; it's the people paying that aren't. "The Black Death: The Saga of Sir John Hawkwood and the Adventures of White Company" uses the life of true to life soldier of fortune John Hawkwood to tell a tale of medieval adventure as Hawkwood and his crew face an unusual collection of adventures of his time, from their wars for hire to the oncoming onslaught of the black death. "The Black Death" is an exciting read of adventure that is sure to entice and keep people reading.

Gone Away Into The Land
Jeffrey B. Allen
Strategic Book Publishing
PO Box 333, Durham, CT 06422
9781608608591 $38.15 www.strategicpublishinggroup.com

A cruel father can destroy lives, and for John Greber, it might lead to many more than anyone bad father can cause. "Gone Away Into the Land" is a unique story as author Jeffrey Allen tells a story of a twelve year old who pursues his cruel father who he calls the beast to rescue his six year old sister. But the world is falling apart more than by John's father. "Gone Away Into the Land" is an intriguing first entry and a solidly recommended read.

The Poison Eaters and Other Stories
Holly Black
Big Mouth House
150 Pleasant Street #306, Easthampton, MA 01027
9781931520638 $17.99 www.bigmouthhouse.net

In order to get an upper hand, people will sabotage their own well being. "The Poison Eaters and Other Stories: And Other Stories" is a collection of short stories from Holly Black walking on the dark side of fantasy, to the greed and economics of the faerie world, to living life as poison and seemingly unwinnable bets. Along with her own takes on same classic tales, and never before seen stories, "The Poison Eaters" is a fine introduction to Black's work, and a solidly recommended one.

Mozan and the Return of Magic
Stephan Davied
Fyonhaireshizer Publishing
4229 Coleridge, Houston, TX 77005
9780578054452, $13.95

Peace and unity are very hard things to maintain. "Mozan and the Return of Magic" is the story of prince Mozan, as he and several other young royals find that the responsibility for saving the kingdom and its future lies on their shoulders. Faced with coming of age and their rough task, Mozan's only hope lies in the prophecy of a Lion King, Anzon. "Moran and the Return of Magic" is a fun fantasy for younger readers, highly recommended.

They Had Goat Heads
D. Harlan Wilson
Atlatl
PO Box 292644, Dayton, OH 45429
9780982628126 $12.95 www.atlatlpress.com

The occurrences of every day life often come as certainly absurd. "They Had Goat Heads" is a collection of short and flash fiction from D. Harlan Wilson, as he takes a walk on the mildly absurd and brings readers events of everyday life that don't quite go as they are planned. A fascinating take with plenty of humor and thought blended in, "They Had Goat Heads" is certainly not a collection to be missed.

Tianna Loga and the Salem Academy for Witchcraft
Timothy Craig Everhart
Bedside Books
5442 So. 900 East, #146, Salt Lake City, UT 84117-7204
Dusk Till Dawn Promotions (publicity)
214 E. 10th Ave. Ext., Lexington, NC 27292
9781589826304, $22.00, www.dusktildawnpromotions.webs.com

Not everyone is so accepting of witchcraft. "Tianna Logan and the Salem Academy for Witchcraft" tells the story of Tianna Logan, an orphaned girl who finds herself shipped off to a school of witchcraft. Soon finding there are those out to spoil the school and ruin it, she finds that her early days are not going to be the simplest ones. "Tianna Logan" is a fun read of fantasy, sure to appeal to young readers.

Brigitta of the White Forest
Danika Dinsmore
En Theos Press
1122 E Pike St., #1451, Seattle, WA 98122
9780975404256, $12.95, www.entheospress.com

When time is running out, one has to pick up the pace to save the day. "Brigitta of the White Forest" tells the story of Brigitta and the faeries, as the hourglass that protects the white forest now seems to be running out and the time appears to be short. "Brigitta of the White Forest" is a fun fantasy that fairy-loving youths will relish and enjoy.


The Women's Studies Shelf

The Plan A Woman in a Plan B World
Debbie Taylor Williams
Leafwood
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
B&B Media Group (publicity)
109 South Main Street, Corsicana, TX 75110
9780891126416, $14.99, www.debbietaylorwilliams.com

If someone says everything in their life always goes according to plan, they're living in a fantasy world. "The Plan A Woman in Plan B World: What to Do When Life Doesn't Go According to Plan" is a guide for women on how to live their life on the fly, enforced by Christian values and faith. Saying that while life drives you away from your ideal being, you can live yourself still pursing your dreams while still being realistic. "The Plan A Woman in a Plan B World" is a book with simple values and much advice, highly recommended.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Introductions...
Matthew D. Harding
Hybris Think Tank
11404 E. Renata Ave., Mesa, AZ 85212
9780984266302, $24.95, www.hybristhinktank.com

God is more than just is, he has a will like all of us. "Introductions:...a Story About God" tells a story where God takes the form of a mortal man in Arizona, trying to understand his purpose and power in a world that he created, meeting new questions along the way. An intriguing concept of spirituality and faith, "Introductions" is a thoughtful read and a choice pick for those who want another take and thoughts on faith.

The Gathering of the Forces of Light
Benjamin Creme
Share International Foundation
PO Box 971, N. Hollywood CA 91603
9789071484469, $16.00, www.share-international.com

Could UFOs have a much nobler goal in mind for humanity? "The Gathering of the Forces of Light: UFOs and their Spiritual Mission" is a metaphysical spiritual discussion from Benjamin Creme as he believes the planets and the universe have positive things in mind for humanity. With some intriguing ideas, Benjamin Creme provides a strong read for anyone with a lot of metaphysical interest, making "The Gathering of the Forces of Light" a fascinating pick.

When the Soul Awakens, second edition
Nancy Seifer & Martin Vieweg
Gathering Wave Press
PO Box 2185, Reston, VA 20195-0185
9780982004708, $14.95, www.whenthesoulawakens.org

Consciousness is being alert to the changes in the world. "When the Soul Awakens: The Path to Spiritual Evolution and a New World Era" is a spiritual guide to bringing about a new era of consciousness, understanding the nature of an endlessly changing world and how to better understand it as it changes. Urging for collective understanding, "When the Soul Awakens" is a fascinating read, not to be overlooked for metaphysical and spirituality readers.


The Self-Help Shelf

Achieve Anything in Just One Year
Jason Jarvey
Amazing Life Press
1096 Queen St., Suite 139, Halifax, NS, B3H 2R9
9780981363905, $29.95, www.amazinglifepress.com

The person most in charge of your success is yourself. "Achieve Anything in Just One Year: Be Inspired Daily to Live Your Dreams Accomplish Your Goals" is an inspirational guide to help readers find their own goals in life and strive to be greater in their lives. Encouraging readers to set goals, make major strides every day, and to keep one's spirits up, "Achieve Anything in Just One Year" is a top pick for those reaching for something greater in their lives.

Managing Your Stress in Difficult Times
Jerry V. Teplitz
Happiness Unlimited
1304 Woodhurst Drive, Virginia beach, VA 23454
9780939372164, $17.95, www.teplitz.com

Keeping your cool is an invaluable technique that is always underestimated. "Managing Your Stress in Difficult Times: Succeeding in Times of Change" is a guide to keeping one's cool in times where one's cool is tested heavily. Encouraging finding simple solutions, Dr. Jerry Teplitz gives readers much t ponder and think about in becoming cool and collected under fire. "Managing Your Stress in Difficult Times" is a fine read, and not one to be overlooked.

Pick-of-the-Day!
Dr. Mary B. Anderson
Companion Publishers
PO Box 231853, Encinitas, CA 92023
9780984271900 $21.95 www.companionpublishers.com www.TreasuresFromMary.com

Life is a game, and playing it well is a key to success. "Pick-of-the-Day!: Life is Like a Game and It's All About How to Innately Play It!" is a guide to mastering the game of life through the first step of realizing it's like a game. Through recognizing what needs to be changed, dealing with your own emotions, acting well, and more, "Pick-Of-The-Day" is a fine and inspirational read that shouldn't be overlooked for those trying to understand their life and get ahead.


The Parenting Shelf

Ten Simple Rules for Being a Better Parent in a World Turned Upside Down
John D. McPherson
Mill City Press
212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 290, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781936107223, $12.95, www.millcitypublishing.com

To be a better parent is something all parents strive for, no matter how they think their doing. "Ten Simple Rules for Being a better Parent In a World Turned Upside Down: A Handbook to Help Parents to Do a Better Job" is a simple advisory guide for parents who want help in dealing with the slew of problems that are usually tossed in one's face as they deal with their children's ever changing wants and needs. Each chapter has a value and an elaboration in how to apply it in life. "Ten Simple Rules for Being a Better Parent in a World Turned Upside Down" is a top pick and a solidly recommended pick for parents.

Super Baby Food, second edition
Ruth Yaron
F.J. Roberts, LLC
20 Blythe Drive, Peckville, PA 18452
0965260313 $19.95 www.superbabyfood.com

The first years of life are the most vital for development. "Super Baby Food" discusses the importance of diet in the early years of life complete with nearly four hundred recipes for nutritious and delicious foods for baby. With tips on food allergies, getting started on solid foods, encouraging good eating habits, decoration, and so much more, "Super Baby Food is an advisory guide for new parents with plenty of invaluable advice.

Raising Your Teenager
Dr. Roger McIntire
www.rogermcintire.wordpress.com
Summit Crossroads Press
9329 Angelina Circle, Columbia, MD 21045
9780615356709 $17.95 parentsuccess.com

The Teenager is a strange creature, much different from that child you used to have. "Raising Your Teenager: 5 Crucial Skills for Moms and Dads" is a guide for parents who are trying to deal with the monumental task of helping their teenage children through this awkward point in their life. Bad habits, knowing when and how to talk, encouraging school work, and being a mentor are the brief aspects of it all, and "Raising Your Teenager" is a useful resource for any parent feeling they are in over their head with their teen.


The American History Shelf

Route 66 St. Louis
Norma Maret Bolin
St. Louis Transitions
PO Box 191401, St. Louis MO 63119
9780982323915, $29.95, www.route66stlouis.com

Route 66 has more than earned its place in American mythology. "Route 66 St. Louis: From the Bridges to the Diamonds" is a delve into the history of this famous highway and the many attractions and locations along this road, focusing in particular on the regions around St. Louis, Missouri and throughout the state. Not just an assortment of nostalgic hotels and restaurants, there was plenty of history of and culture to enjoy, and it makes for an excellent and fun read. For anyone who looks at the heyday of route 66 with fond memories or want to see what the big deal was, "Route 66 St. Louis" is a read that shouldn't be overlooked.


The Architecture Shelf

Drawing Toward Home
James F. O'Gorman
Historic New England
141 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114
Tilbury House (distribution)
103 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, ME 04345
9780884483281, $59.95

A truly majestic home will last generations. "Drawing Toward Home: Designs for Domestic Architecture from Historic New England" is conceived as an inspiration book for those looking to build a home of their own. James F. O'Gorman and his staff give readers a collection of photographs and drawing of the finer homes found in the New England region throughout its existence, with texts describing the history of such photographs. For anyone out to design their new home and who wants it to be a beautiful one that lasts, "Drawing Toward Home" is a fine pick for any who want a more complete education in their decisions.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Spiritual Engineering
Thomas J. Strawser
Books to Believe In
17011 Lincoln Ave., #408, Parker, CO 80134
9780984483891, $19.97, www.bookstobelievein.com

With a rocketing divorce rate, could there be a flaw in the spirit of society? "Spiritual Engineering: The New Science for Happiness and Extraordinary Relationships" brings an intriguing collection of thoughts to the table encouraging a self-reevaluation of thoughts, belief, and self-acceptance. Encouraging readers to bring stronger relationships and keep the negative emotions out of their lives, "Spiritual Engineering" comes to readers with plenty of thought and encouragement to lead a more spiritual and fulfilling life.

Seeking Soul Mates, Spirits Guides, and Past Lives
Richard C. Scheinberg
Legwork Team Publishing
80 Davids Drive, Suite 1, Hauppauge, NY 11788
Sunrise Counseling Center
1555 Sunrise Highway, Bay Shore, NY 11706
9780578018652, $24.95

Does a soul have one life, or does it continue on throughout history? "Seeking Soul Mates, Spirit Guides, and Past Lives" is a metaphysical discussion of past lives and other spiritual based subjects surrounding psychotherapy. From the lost of trust to those around you, what is a soul mate, reincarnation and past lives, and the blessings of a young death. "Seeking Soul Mates" is an intriguing delve into the soul, where it comes from, where it's been, where it is, and where it is going, highly recommended.


The Military Shelf

WOW!
Ralph Welsh
Welsh Products
PO Box 6120, Arnold, CA 95223
9780692000786, $23.00

Flying over Europe and Japan during one of the biggest conflicts in history is something hard to escape without good stories. "WOW!: Anthology of B-24/8th Air Force/ World War II Stories" is a collection of fifty war stories as many individuals from many fronts come in and share their own stories of trying to survive and get their mission done when i all seems so hopeless. "WOW!" is a fun anthology for anyone who enjoys an old-fashioned war story.

Military Divorce Tips
Tracy Foote
TracyTrends
27 West 86 Street, Suite 17B, New York, NY 10024
9780981473727, $34.99, www.militarydivorcetips.com

The military and its benefits bring a whole new level of annoyance to divorce. "Military Divorce Tips" is a guide to the problems surrounding divorce and the challenges that come when you blend in military benefits and the privileges spouses receive. A complete and comprehensive advisory to the legal precedents and dilemmas that lie along with it, "Military Divorce Tips" is a must for any military individual who has met one of the worst outcomes for their marriage.


The Business Shelf

The Owner's Dilemma
Barbara White Bryson with Canan Yetmen
Greenway Communications
25 Technology Parkway South, Suite 101, Norcross, Georgia 30092
9780984084678 $29.95

Inefficiency is no way to turn a profit. "The Owner's Dilemma: Driving Success and Innovation in the Design and Construction Industry" is a discussion of the design and construction industry, and how to innovate and change how the business works in an industry that stands against it. Collaboration, teamwork, and innovation are keys to making an efficient construction and design in a business that costs millions of public and private money annually. "The Owner's Dilemma" is an intriguing take on construction and architecture, highly recommended.

Enterprise Cloud Computing
Andy Mulholland, Jon Pyke, Peter Fingar
Meghan-Kiffer Press
310 East Fern Street, Tampa, FL 33604
9780929652290, $39.95, www.mkpress.com

The flow of information everywhere has changed everything. "Enterprise Cloud Computing: A Strategy Guide for Business and Technology Leaders" discusses the importance of cloud computing and how it is changing the economic and innovation games across the globe. Understanding it is absolutely vital and industry veterans lend their advice on learning and mastery the process. "Enterprise Cloud Computing" is a choice pick for anyone who wants to learn from the ways of experts.

No Jerks on the Job
Ron Newton
PenlandScott Publishers
PO Box 166677, Irving TX 75016
Stephanie Barko (publicity)
16100 Crystal Hills, Austin, TX 78737
9780982315231 $19.95 www.penlandscott.com www.nojerksonthejob.com

No one likes a jerk, especially when you're trying tog et things done. "No Jerks on the Job: Who They Are, The Harm They Do, and Ridding Them From Your Workplace" is a guide for those dealing with jerks in the workplace, and for supervisors and managers who have the power to do something about such jerks. Jerks can cause many problems with employee morale, wasted productivity time, and in general proving to be inefficient employees. "No Jerks on the Job" speaks out against the workplace bully and ne'er-do-well and provides many useful solutions.

Simple Wisdom for the Not So Simple Business World
Lynda Barbaccia
Simple Wisdom Works Publishing
PO Box 4386, San Rafael, CA 94913
9780982310014 $15.00 www.LyndaBarbaccia.com

Slaving for eight hours a day is no fun. "Simple Wisdom for the Not So Simple Business World" is a guide to finding that joy and piece of mind in a world where it's so easy to fall into a soul crushing job. Encouraging one to find their peace of mind in their place of work, remember their joy, and bring it with them to their work place, "Simple Wisdom for the Not So Simple Business World" is a strong pick for anyone who wants the daily grind to stop being so grinding.

Get Out of the Way
John Levy
Happy About
20660 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 210, Cupertino, CA 95014
9781600051753 $19.95 http://happyabout.com

No one is going to wait for your business to succeed. "Get Out of the Way: How to Manage Development of Timely, Innovative, and Relevant Products" is a business guide for staying with the times and keeping one's business caught up with the time. Drawing from his own experience in the world of technology, one of the most rapidly changing industries, he provides much insight that can help smaller business realize what the public wants now, and not five minutes ago. "Get Out of the Way" is a highly useful resource that shouldn't be missed for business leaders.

If You Have Employees, You really Need This Book
Jerry Osteryoung & Timothy J. O'Brien
ISMPI, Inc.
3023 N. Shannon Lakes Dr, Suite 102, Tallahassee, FL 32309
9781450705745, $14.95, www.osteryoungobrien.com

Motivating your employees can be as hard as motivating oneself. "If You Have Employees, You Really Need This Book" delves into how to inspire and motivate one's workers as these two entrepreneurs bring to light their own experience of working with human resources with combined decades of experience on top of one another. From motivation to the importance of direction and good leadership, "If You Have Employees, You Really Need This Book" is a powerful resource that shouldn't be missed.


The Hunting/Fishing Shelf

Opening Days
Richard Chiappone
Barclay Creek Press
176 Ballville Road, PO Box 249, Bolton, MA 01740-0249
9781936008049 $24.95 www.barclaycreek.com

Everything has its own callings and emotions, and fly fishing is no different. "Opening Days: A Fly Fisherman Writes" is a collection of wit and wisdom from Richard Chiappone as he gives a great assortment of literature along with is own thoughts and ponderings from the lake. From the challenges of home which we all know to the unique challenges of the fly fisher to the life of us all, along with some political opinion. "Opening Days" is a fine read with much to think about, and would do well in any poetry or hunting and fishing collection.


The Political Science Shelf

The Next American Revolution
Charles R. Hooper
Watauga Press
PO Box 782, Hampton, Tennessee 37658
9780984387687 $14.95 itsmycongress.com

A revolution doesn't need to be fought with guns, and this sort of revolution is needed to make Congress work again. "The Next American Revolution: How to Demand Congressional Reform Now" is a call from Charles R. Hooper as he outlines the flaws in today's congress and how it is failing the American people. Not trying to call for a politic biased position, his argument is more aimed at the general failure of congress in recent years and he encourages people to stand against this corruption and make the congress work for the people once more. "The Next American Revolution" is a thoughtful and well argued urging for reform, a solid recommendation.


The Sports Shelf

The Room
John M. Brewer, Jr.
One Monkey Books
156 Diamond Street, San Francisco, CA 94114
9780977708246 $14.95

The desire to win drives on strong, perhaps too strong. "The Room" tells the story of the 1950s Westinghouse High School Bulldogs and their winning ways that came at any cost. The wins were attributed in part to a fabled Room where players were forbidden to talk about what occurred. In this football memoir, a former player speaks out against the team’s brutal treatment of players and how he rebelled against the cruel coach. A remarkable story of how the need to win can destroy the high school life, "The Room" is a fascinating read cover to cover.


The Philosophy Shelf

The Refractive Thinker Volume IV: Ethics, Leadership, and Globalization
The Lentz Leadership Institute
The Refractive Thinker Press
9065 Big Plantation Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89143-5440
9780982303689 $34.99 www.lentzleadership.com www.refractivethinker.com

What is considered a good decision on the world stage? "The Refractive Thinker: Volume II: Ethics, Leadership, and Globalization" is a collection of thoughts and philosophy on ethics on the world stage, and what it means to be a global leader. Cover the cover, the Lentz Leadership Institute gives readers a thoughtful, scholarly, and well reasoned debate on many subjects, all from doctoral writers. A core addition to any philosophy or ethics collection in community or college libraries, "The Refractive Thinker" proves to be an invaluable text.


The Money/Finance Shelf

If I'm So Smart... Where Did All My Money Go?
Doug Warshauer
CFMB Books
8264 Lehigh Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
Lissy Peace & Associates Ltd. (publicity)
LissyPeace@aol.com
9780984493746 $24.95

You have so many wants and needs; it's easy for all the money to vanish in the blink of an eye. "If I'm So Smart... Where Did All My Money Go?" is a guide to lasting wealth that will keep one sustained and comfortable for years to come, instead of living like a king briefly and going back to life as a pauper. From how to save and making a good budget, the pros and cons of renting a home, strategic debt paying, and more, "If I'm So Smart... Where Did All My Money Go?" is a fascinating and useful read that shouldn't be overlooked.


The Nautical Shelf

Sailing for Everyone
Simon Watts
WoodenBoat Books
84 Great Cove Drive, Brooklin, ME 04616
9781934982013, $12.95, www.woodenboatbooks.com

Sailing can be done by anyone who is dedicated enough to learn. "Sailing for Everyone: A Practical Guide to Sailing of Small Boats for the Novice of Any Age" is aimed at parents and anyone who wants to teach someone new to the many aspects of sailing and how to teach anyone to manage a small craft. With plenty of diagrams to help teach the simpler maneuvers, "Sailing for Everyone" is a read that shouldn't be missed for anyone who wants to teach or learn.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

Changing Careers in a Changing World
Carrell Chadwell
Chadwell & Associates
602 S. Main Street, #808, Crestview, FL 32536
9780984141319, $21.95, www.drchadwell.com

Your first choice might not always be the best one. "Changing Careers in a Changing World: Finding a Job That Fits You!: A Step-by-Step Guide and Workbook" is a discussion of measuring one's own aptitude with the career they don't yet know that's good enough for them. From desires and needs for certain careers, personal values, and more, "Changing Careers in a Changing World" is a useful guide for those who aren't exactly sure what they want out of their career.


The Psychology Shelf

Intelligence and the Brain
Dennis Garlick
Aesop Press
1285 Franz Hall, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563
9780615319216, $27.99

The same mental potential resides within us all. "Intelligence and the Brain: Solving the Mystery of Why People Differ in IQ and How a Child Can be a Genius" is an analysis of human intelligence. Stating that intelligence ultimately boils down to the ability to understand, and the vitalness of early childhood in producing and encouraging intelligence. "Intelligence and the Brain" is a thoughtful dissection, very highly recommended.


The Economics Shelf

Figuring Out Wall Street
Floyd Saunders
Saunders Learning Group
712 Woodstone Court, Andover, KS 67002
9780982401903, $21.00, www.floydsaunders.com

Wall Street can prove fairly difficult to understand at first. "Figuring Out Wall Street: Consumer's Guide to Financial Markets" explains Wall Street and its details in a world where it has been blamed for the financial crisis around the world. A practical guide designed to primarily to encourage understanding, "Figuring Out Wall Street" also encourages readers to use their understanding to play the market themselves. "Figuring Out Wall Street" is a top pick for anyone who is tired of the world's finances flying over their head.


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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