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Wisconsin Bookwatch

Volume 7, Number 2 February 2012 Home | WBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice World History Shelf Agriculture Shelf
Political Science Shelf Fiction Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Christian Studies Shelf Poetry Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Health/Medicine Shelf Parenting Shelf Buddhist Studies Shelf
Writing/Publishing Shelf Business Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Travel Shelf Human Sexuality Shelf Gardening Shelf
Automotive Shelf Psychology Shelf Biography Shelf
Education Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Aging Shelf Hutning/Fishing Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Sports Shelf Crafts Shelf Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Art Shelf Photography Shelf Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf
Needlecraft Shelf Relationship Shelf Memoir Shelf
Audiobook Shelf Music CD Shelf DVD Shelf
Jobs/Careers Shelf Gaming Shelf Computer Shelf
Wisconsin Shelf    


Reviewer's Choice

Brain Power
Michael J. Gelb & Kelly Howell
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way
Novato, CA 94949
9781608680733, $14.95, www.newworldlibrary.com

The mind ages, but using it to the fullest helps. "Brain Power: Improve Your Mind As You Age" is a guide for those who want to better improve their mental skills and make it sharp as a tack, no matter their age. With plenty of exercises to help improve one's brain fitness and keep one on their mental toes to find better success, "Brain Power" is a read that shouldn't be overlooked by self-help and health collections.

The Illustrated Doom Survival Guide
Matt Victor
Adventures Unlimited Press
PO Box 74
Kempton, IL 60946
9781935487777, $20.00, www.adventuresunlimitedpress.com

When it all hits the fan, there are few things that will matter. "The Illustrated Doom Survival Guide: Don't Panic" is a read about practical survival in today's modern world where society won't be able to provide. From building temporary shelter from little, the basics of hunting and fishing, and setting up sustained agriculture and ranching, "The Illustrated Doom Survival Guide" is recommended for those who want to expand their horizons, and be prepared if the worst happens.

God Bless the Spectrum
Philadelphia Daily News
Camino Books, Inc.
PO Box 59026, Philadelphia, PA 19102
9781933822389, $19.95, www.caminobooks.com

The best of the best was always on display. "God Bless the Spectrum" is a tribute to Philadelphia's Spectrum, the setting of many events throughout its existence, from Muppets to legendary concerts to vital boxing matches, to becoming an icon of pop culture. With full color photos all throughout and countless statistics about the most famous acts of the Spectrum and much more, "God Bless the Spectrum" covers the arena's history up until its closing in 2009, making it a treasure for those who remember the arena fondly.


The World History Shelf

Texada Tapestry
Heather Harbord
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219
Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550175370, $32.95, www.harbourpublishing.com

Through fools gold and a beautiful coastline, the history of the isle of Texada is not one often known, but proves quite intriguing. "Texada Tapestry" is a history of this island in the gulf of Georgia in the Canadian province of British Columbia. A history filled with political scandal, riots, struggles for equality, and a good dose of personal history throughout, Heather Harbord presents a lovingly crafted history of a small community with a strong history and a lot of character. "Texada Tapestry" is a fine pick for any community library collection focusing on Canadian history.


The Agriculture Shelf

John Deere Tractor Legacy
Don Macmillan, editor
Voyageur Press
c/o Quayside Publishing Group
400 First Avenue North, Suite 300
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9780760340141, $24.99, www.voyageurpress.com

John Deere has become an American icon, even as the country has moved away from the fields. "John Deere Tractor Legacy" discusses this brand's impact on American society for well over one hundred and fifty years. With many articles discussing the technical aspects of the machinery through the ages, many relics of ads over the years with plenty of black and white and full color photography all throughout, "John Deere Tractor Legacy" is a must for any with an infatuation for these tractors, and seeking a coffee table oriented pick for them.


The Political Science Shelf

The Rise of the Tea Party
Anthony DiMaggio
Monthly Review Press
146 West 29th Street, Suite 6W
New York, NY 10001
9781583672471, $18.95, www.monthlyreview.org

The origins of the Tea Party are somewhat blurry. "The Rise of the Tea Party: Political Discontent and Corporate Media in the Age of Obama" discusses the roots of the Tea Party, as media studies expert Anthony DiMaggio attempts to bring a level handed delve into the Tea Party, as he tries to discern whether it is a legitimate movement of the people, or a creation of far right money. Providing a comprehensive study that looks at modern journalism as a whole, "The Rise of the Tea Party" is an excellent and recommended pick for community and library politics and journalism collections.

Turn This Car Around
Bob Ehrlich
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
9781936661558, $24.95, www.benbellabooks.com

The political climate seems to be more confusing than ever. "Turn This Car Around: The Road Map to Restoring America" is a discussion of modern politics from former Maryland Governor Bob Ehrlich, who writes of his experiences of becoming the first Republican governor in Maryland in over forty years. Offering criticisms of both sides of the isle and how they have lost his way, he focuses on economic issues, offering a libertarian view that tries to avoid catering to big business. "Turn This Car Around" presents many intriguing ideas to both sides of the isle, a strong addition to any modern political library collection.


The Fiction Shelf

The Shameful Suicide of Winston Churchill
Peter Millar
Arcadia Books
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781906413859, $24.95, www.arcadiabooks.com

The advance of the Soviets had further goals than Berlin. "The Shameful Suicide of Winston Churchill" is an alternate history from Peter Millar, speaking of a world where the war in Europe did not end with the fall of Hitler, but with the Soviet Union becoming the new allied opposition. As Stalin's war is brought to London. Winston Churchill is hailed as the villain of this ongoing world, and London finds itself split between America and the Soviet Union in 1989. Spinning a tale of murder and corruption in a universe where the Cold War lives, "The Shameful Suicide of Winston Churchill" is a fascinating novel that tells quite the story with a very different world.

The Accidental Bride
Denise Hunter
Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000
Nashville, TN 37214
9781595548023, $15.99, www.thomasnelson.com

The stupidest of things may lead to the best of chances. "The Accidental Bride" is a unique Christian romance, following Shay, a woman struggling on her own who agrees to play the bride in a wedding re-enactment. Finding an old flame is playing her groom, she thinks nothing of it, but a blunder makes their pretend marriage real, and Shay may find one preacher's mistake can lead her to extended heartache, or another chance at love. "The Accidental Bride" is a riveting read for those seeking a fun romance, highly recommended.

The Odditorium
Melissa Pritchard
Bellevue Literary Press
550 First Avenue, OBV 612
New York, NY 10016
9781934137376, $14.95, www.blpress.org

History is full of unique spins on all we know. "The Odditorium" is a collection of short fiction as Melissa Pritchard explores the eccentric nature of our history, delving into mystery, fantasy, horror, history, and much more for a unique blend of tales. Humor of life, solemness of its loss, and the heroes who make it happen, "The Odditorium" is a fine assortment of short fiction, very much recommended.

No Tame Cat
Robert J. Harvey
Granville Island Publishing
212-1656 Duranleau Street
Vancouver, BC Canada V6H 364
9781926991030, $24.95, www.granvilleislandpublishing.com

The fur trade was never an easy way to make a living. "No Tame Cat" is a historical novel from Robert J. Harvey telling the story of the nineteenth century fur trade and the adventure that was the voyages from London to all around and through North America. Following Captain James Gaudin on his voyages, "No Tame Cat" is an exciting spin of historical fiction, drawn from much true life inspiration in the Hudson Bay Company's log books.

The Warmest December
Bernice L. McFadden
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 10009
9781617750359, $15.95, www.akashicbooks.com

Destruction can be slow and painful, and that often proves the worst sort. "The Warmest December" is a novel of dysfunctional Brooklyn family, as young Kenzie Lowe faces a home where she doesn't want to be, as all who live there are poisoned by their father's alcoholism. As life rolls on, Kenzie faces adulthood, and is soon forced to look back on the hell she endured as a child. "The Warmest December" is a thoughtful read of the struggles of youth, highly recommended.

Restoration
Joe Castanzo
Charles River Press
PO Box 1122
Mansfield, MA 02048
9781936185313, $15.95, www.charlesriverpesss.com

To return to what we once held dear is on the mind of many immigrants. "Restoration" is a novel from Joe Costanzo, as he tells the story of an Italian American who returns to his small town in Italy and seeks to rebuild a failing church. But in his good will, he encounters the conflicts that still consume his town, which may destroy everything he's worked for. "Restoration" is a riveting novel of faith and small town life, very much recommended.

Out of Time
Geoff Schmidt
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336
Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574413199, $14.95, www.unt.edu/untpress

We don't have forever, and it's best to use the most of the short time we got. "Out of Time" is a collection of short fiction from Geoff Schmidt as he compiles stories of time and mortality and our own mortal race against these, and accepting that we can't do anything. "Out of Time" is a fine assortment of fiction, very much recommended reading for short fiction collections.

Forsaking All Others
Allison Pittman
Tyndale House Publishers
351 Executive Drive
Carol Stream, IL 60188
9781414335971, $13.99, www.tyndale.com

Leaving your family faith behind is difficult, but taking your family from your faith is even harder. "Forsaking All Others" is a Christian novel from Allison Pittman, who crafts a tale of Camilla Fox, who from the brink of death left Salt Lake City and found a new life. But as she realizes what she left behind, she returns to her daughters, and realizes it will take more than she thinks to bring her family together once more. "Forsaking All Others" is a story that will resound with many parents who struggle to have their children returned to them, very much recommended.

The Holiday Party
Richard Wanderer
Two Harbors
212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 290
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781937293321, $15.95, www.twoharborspress.com

The lust for power cares not who it bowls over. "The Holiday Party: A Tale of a Corporate Takeover" is a novel of corporate intrigue from Richard Wanderer. Spinning a tale of three individuals all with their own lust for power and success, from a driven man who dabbles in witchcraft, to the destined heir, to the assertive woman who uses anything in her repertoire to fight to the top. "The Holiday Party" is a riveting novel of corporate cutthroats, highly recommended.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

The King James Bible and the World it Made
David Lyle Jeffrey, editor
Baylor University Press
One Bear Place, #97363
Waco, TX 76798-7363
9781602584167, $24.95, www.baylorpress.com

English in one form of another is over a thousand years old, but the establishment of the King James Bible set standards for the language for centuries to come. "The King James Bible and the World It Made" discusses the continuing prominence of the King James Bible, and its important role in acting as sort of a foundation for English literature and English writing. Many theologians and professors of English literature come together to present an intriguing retrospective on the King James Bible and what is has wrought. "The King James Bible and the World It Made" is a choice pick for religion and literary collections.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Glory in the Cross
Paul Turner
The Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500
Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814662427, $24.95, www.litpress.org

As Catholics move forward, it becomes easier to misunderstand the scripture. "Glory in the Cross: Holy Week in the Third Edition of The Roman Missal" discusses Holy Week and the recent revisions made to it in the past sixty years. Paul Turner, a scholar priest, seeks to explain the changes and promote discussion from ministers and other followers of religious text understand this important aspect of post Vatican II reform. "Glory in the Cross" is a strongly recommended pick for Christian studies collections.

God, Grace, & Girlfriends
Mary R. Snyder
New Hope Publishers
PO Box 830711
Birmingham, AL 35283-0711
9781596693265, $16.99, www.newhopepublishers.com

Loving thy neighbor is a major aspect of Christianity, and there are few neighbors you love more than your friends. "God, Grace, & Girlfriends: Adventures in Faith and Friendship" is an exploration of Christian friendship between women as Mary Snyder writes with humor and charm as she speaks on faith and bonding with those closest to you and advancing through life as Christians. "God, Grace, & Girlfriends" is a spiritual and much recommended read for Christian collections.

All Roads Lead to the Text
Dean B. Deppe
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
2140 Oak Industrial Drive, NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802865957, $25.00, www.eerdmans.com

The key to understanding the Christian faith ultimately lies in scripture. "All Roads Lead to the Text: Eight Methods of Inquiry Into the Bible" is a guide to scripture study from Dean B. Deppe, who advises readers on how better interpret the word, understanding scripture as history, literature, and a spiritual text. A solid introduction to being a biblical scholar, "All Roads Lead to the Text" is an excellent and much recommended pick for community and college Christian studies collections.

What to Do When Jesus is Hungry?
Andrew Apostoli
Ignatius Press
PO Box 1339
Fort Collins, CO 80522
9781586174491, $14.95, www.ignatius.com

Charity was perhaps one of the virtues closest to Jesus. "What to Do When Jesus is Hungry?: A Practical Guide to Works of Mercy" discusses the importance of charity as Father Andrew Apostoli as he discusses seven acts of mercy, six of which were held dear to the heart of Jesus. Answering the needs of food, drink, clothing, warmth, compassion, and sharing that kindness, Father Apostoli adds that there are other elements we must remember, such as forgiveness, not giving into anger, and honoring the dead. "What to Do When Jesus is Hungry?" is a powerful read with a strong message, not to be overlooked.

A Book of Prayers for Couples
Stormie Omartian
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North
Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
9780736946698, $12.99, www.harvesthousepublishers.com

Prayer is a powerful tool of faith, and is something that should be shared between couples. "A Book of Prayers for Couples" discussing faith within a couple, and bringing it together to enhance a bond that can last a lifetime. Storme Omartian advises readers how they can bring faith into their relationships more completely, making for a very much recommended read. "A Book of Prayers for Couples" is an excellent pick and much recommended read for Christian studies collections focusing on relationships.

Table Life
Joanne Thmpson
Beaver's Pond Press
7108 Ohms Lane
Edina, MN 55439
9781592984534, $18.00, www.BeaversPondPress.com

Jesus's virtue of hospitality must never be forgotten. "Table Life: Savoring The Hospitality of Jesus in Your Home" discusses the table as the center of life of a Christian, of kindness and charity to others. Drawing on how Jesus led by the dinner table and through discussion and celebration, one can do the same, "Table Life" is a practical guide for spreading the love of Christ through thoughtful goodwill on a daily basis.

Hearts on Fire
Penny Lernoux
Orbis Books
PO Box 308
Maryknoll, NY 10545-0308
9781570759345, $25.00, www.orbisbooks.com

Goodwill and charity are major tenants of Christianity. "Hearts on Fire" is a chronicle of the Maryknoll Sisters of Saint Dominic, who through their lives of dedication, made a difference in many countries in need all around the world. The late Penny Lernoux provided a study of the Catholic Church and those who work for the faith, and this centenary edition provides much additional information added to this vital following of women who dared to make a difference. "Hearts on Fire" is a must for Christian history shelves.

Secrets of Heaven
Emanuel Swedenborg
Swedenborg Foundation
320 North Church Street
West Chester, PA 19380
9780877854111, $14.95, www.swedenborg.com

True understanding of the Bible comes from deep thought through its study. "Secrets of Heaven" is the second volume of the famed scientist-philosopher Emanuel Swedenborg, who gained reverence for his thoughtful discussion of Biblical philosophy and spirituality on many levels, this volume focusing on Genesis chapters 9 to 15. Expertly translated by Lisa Hyatt Cooper, those seeking a deep, comprehensive discussion of Genesis and its meaning to the faith.

Nurturing Spiritual Depth in Christian Worship
Janice Jean Springer
Resource Publications, Inc.
160 E. Virginia St. #290
San Jose, CA 95112
9780893906795, $21.95, www.amazon.com

The depth of one's faith is not simply having Christ in your heart. "Nurturing Spiritual Depth in Christian Worship" discusses Christian worship and faith, with a tinge of deeper spirituality and new age ideals. Encouraging a more meaningful faith made of emotions and energies rather than archaic and hard to understand words, "Nurturing Spiritual Depth in Christian Worship" is a must for those who want to more inspire a more meaningful faith in themselves and those around them.

The Other Side of Chaos
Margaret Silf
Loyola Press
3441 North Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
9780829433081, $13.95, www.LoyolaBooks.org

Life is rarely orderly. "The Other Side of Chaos" is an inspirational and Christian-drive guide form Margaret Silf who discusses how to deal with the chaos of our lives that can come with suddenly losing our lives, the tumultuous waves of divorce, and so much more on top of it all. "The Other Side of Chaos" is a strongly recommended pick for any Christian who finds the rapid changes in their life to be one of the tests they don't think they can pass.

Widening the Circle
Joanna Shenk, editor
Herald Press
616 Walnut Avenue
Scottsdale, PA 15683-1999
9780836195583, $14.99, www.heraldpress.com

Inclusion is the name of the faith in coming years. "Widening the Circle: Experiments in Christian Discipleship" discusses the rise of the Anabaptist and Mennonite brands of Christian faith in recent years and how they have often clashed the more traditional religious institutions. Many theologians and thinkers come together and present an intriguing picture of Christianity on the whole. "Widening the Circle" is an intriguing discussion of Christianity and its future throughout North America, highly recommended.

Analogia Entis
Steven A. Long
University of Notre Dame Press
310 Flanner Hall
Notre Dame, IN 46556
9780268034122, $28.00, www.undpress.nd.edu

Deeper understanding of faith is a deeper understanding of who we are. "Analogia Entis: On the Analogy of Being, Metaphysics, and the Act of Faith" is a deeper discussion of faith and its place from Steven A. Long. Discussing the works and words of St. Thomas of Aquinas, their place in spirituality, and discussing the nature of philosophy and metaphysics and its connections to God, "Analogia Entis" is a strongly recommended pick, not to be overlooked for Christian and general philosophical community and college library collections.


The Poetry Shelf

A Difficult Beauty
David Groulx
Wolsak and Wynn Publishers
69 Hughson Street, North Suite 102
Hamilton, ON Canada L8R 1G5
9781894987578, $17.00, www.wolsakandwynn.ca

The truth is often all too brutal to be embraced. "A Difficult Beauty" is a collection of poetry from David Groulx, who presents poetry that is honest about the charm and beauty of life as well as the failure and loss. "A Difficult Beauty" is a fine assortment of verse, a choice addition to literary poetry collections. "Vanishing Indians": These Indians are dead/they died of cancer/went blind/and could only follow the wind//White people love this about Indians//this flesh turning to dust/this mob at my hands//the voices worn like ribbons/on the wind.

In the Ice House
Genevieve Kaplan
Red Hen Press
PO Box 3537
Granada Hills, CA 91394
9781597094627, $16.95, www.redhen.org

Order is a lie, but our world has plenty to see outside it. "In the Ice House" is a collection of original and creatively disjointed poetry from Genevieve Kaplan, discussing a unique world with her own flavor on it all. With a touch of humor and plenty to keep readers reading, "In the Ice House" is a core addition to any modern poetry collection. "The Forest and the Trees": The World is laid out and we follow it.//So we squabble. So we set/our foot down. As we release.

Dancing, with Mirrors
George Amabile
The Porcupine's Quill
68 Main St., PO Box 160
Erin, Ontario, Canada, N0B 1T0
9780889843431, $19.95, www.porcupinesquill.ca

As time rolls on, some memories grow more vivid, and some become more distant. "Dancing, with Mirrors" is a collection of poetry from George Amabile, who presents a unique picture through verse of decades gone by and the imagery we retain from it all. Well crafted cantos gives his form a unique blend of almost epic poetry, "Dancing, with Mirrors" is a fine assortment and much recommended for poetry collections, particularly those with a focus on Canada.

Dear Editor
Amy Newman
Persea Books
853 Broadway, Suite 604
New York, NY 10003
9780892553877, $15.00, www.perseabooks.com

Our pleas to be heard often go unheard. "Dear Editor" is an original assortment of 'prose poems' as Amy Newman uses the method of an author pleading to a publisher to be heard out for their chance to be heard, to speak on the things important to them. A unique story telling method that presents some things to think about, "Dear Editor" is a fine addition to any community library poetry collection, highly recommended.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

A Dictionary of Western Alchemy
Jordan Stratford
Quest Books
c/o The Theosophical Publishing House
PO Box 270
Wheaton, IL 60189-0270
9780835608978, $17.95, www.questbooks.net

Alchemy in the west is far more than trying to turn lead into gold. "A Dictionary of Western Alchemy" serves as a dictionary of the terms and ideas behind the practice of alchemy, explaining the history and processes behind the methods used by those driven by the pursuits of the philosopher's stone and the principles of this unique science. "A Dictionary of Western Alchemy" is well worth considering for those who want a greater understanding of what lies behind it.

Visionary Shamanism
Linda Star Wolf & Anne Dillon
Bear & Company
c/o Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street
Rochester, VT 05767
9781591431312, $16.00, www.innertraditions.com

Understanding spirits is to understand ourselves. "Visionary Shamanism: Activating the Imaginal Cells of the Human Energy Field" as she channels the ideals of shamanism and our own spirituality to understand our rapidly changing world, and best embrace it. With an included CD that hopes to help readers embark on a spiritual and musical journey of their own, "Visionary Shamanism" is a strongly recommended pick for followers of new age philosophy, very much recommended.

Lost Civilizations & Secrets of the Past
Michael Pye & Kirsten Dalley
New Page Books
c/o Career Press Inc.
PO Box 687
Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781601631961, $15.99, www.newpagebooks.com

Our world's history is long and spanning, and there has been much lost to the sands of time. "Lost Civilizations & Secrets of the Past" is a discussion of what was lost to history as many writers who focus on lost history and ancient mysteries come to discuss the legends of Atlantis, Lemuria, as well as what such places may have held deep in our history, technological discoveries lost to the ages, and so much more. For those with an interest in history's hidden treasures, "Lost Civilizations & Secrets of the Past" is an excellent and much recommended pick for metaphysical studies collections.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

But I Deserve This Chocolate!
Susan Albers
New Harbinger Press
5674 Shattuck Avenue
Oakland, CA 94609
9781608820566, $16.95, www.newharbinger.com

It's hard to lose an argument with yourself. "But I Deserve This Chocolate!: The 50 Most Diet-Derailing Excuses and how to Outwit Them" is a guide for winning over one's psyche when it can be so easy to give up on one's diet. Diets are easy to be led astray from, and Susan Albers advises readers on how to put together their perspectives more completely. "But I Deserve This Chocolate!" is a strongly recommended pick for those who find sticking to their diet so very hard.

Life's Little Emergencies
Rod Brouhard
Demos Health
11 W. 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
9781936303151, $16.95, www.demoshealth.com

When an emergency happens, a few seconds can mean the world. "Life's Little Emergencies: A Handbook for Active Independent Seniors and Caregivers" is a health reference manual for seniors who are out on their own and want to stay that way, on how to respond to important and vital decisions that may occur at any time. Written by an experienced paramedic of two decades, "Life's Little Emergencies" is a wise and much recommended pick for community library collections.

In Excellent Health
Scott W. Atlas
Hoover Institution Press
9780817814448, $29.95, www.hooverpress.org

Could the fear over America's health care be overblown? "In Excellent Health: Setting the Record Straight on America's Health Care" presents a challenge to the failing health care system in America, offering a dispute that while in strong need of reform, author Scott Atlas, radiologist, believes that the Affordable Care Act is going too far. Offering his own solutions and diagnosis of America's health concerns, "In Excellent Health" is worth considering for another perspective on this vital debate in today's America.


The Parenting Shelf

From Santa to Sexting
Brenda Hutner & Kristen Blair
Leafwood Publishers
c/o Abilene Christian University Press
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
9780891121305, $14.99, www.leafwoodpublishers.com

Children growing up is the most terrifying thing in the world to a parent. "From Santa to Sexting: Helping Your Child Safely Navigate Middle School and Shape the Choices that Last a Lifetime" is a guide for parents who want to cope with the modern era and how to act as a guide to your children in a time where there's little barrier between the kid's world and the adult world. "From Santa to Sexting" is very much recommended to Christian parents who want to help keep their children on the right path through life.

Different Dream Parenting
Jolene Philo
Discovery House
c/o Barbour
PO Box 3566, Grand Rapids, MI 49501
9781572934672, $10.99, www.dhp.org

Some children need an extra helping hand, and any parent will rise to that challenge. "Different Dream Parenting: A Practical Guide to Raising a Child with Special Needs" is a parenting guide with Christian foundations for parents who are being charged with raising a special needs child. Drawing on her own experience of twenty five years, Jolene Philo writes with faith and practicality on how to find the strength to answer those needs and give your child what they need to reach their full potential. "Different Dream Parenting" is an excellent pick for any Christian parent who may be feeling overwhelmed during this stressful time.


The Buddhist Studies Shelf

Life
Hsing Yun
Buddha's Light Publishing
3456 S. Glenmark Dirve
Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
9781932293463, $15.95, www.blpusa.com

A bit of Buddhist philosophy can help one understand decidedly non-Buddhist issues. "Life" is a collection of musings on Buddhist philosophy and ideals from Venerable Master Hsing Yun, who presents a collection of thought and philosophy, discussing human rights, education, politics, among other issues and how he believes the Buddha would have understood them. "Life" is an excellent pick for anyone who enjoys discussing Buddhist philosophy, very much recommended reading.

A Little Book of Love
Moh Hardin
Shambhala Publications, Inc.
300 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA 02115-4544
9781590309001, $15.95, www.shambhala.com

Happiness starts from within. "A Little Book of Love: Heart Advice on Bringing Happiness to Ourselves and Our World" is a sage read from Moh Hardin as he brings a touch of Buddhist philosophy to finding one's way through life and through the challenges we often face on that journey. Encouraging self-reliance and wisdom, "A Little Book of Love" has plenty to ponder and consider, and is very much recommended.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

The Writer's Workout
Christina' Katz
Writer's Digest Books
c/o F+W Media
4700 East Galbraith Road
Cincinnati, OH 45236
9781599631790, $19.99, www.writersdigest.com

No one is going to get better at writing without practice, just like anything else. "The Writer's Workout: 366 Tips, Tasks, & Techniques From Your Writing Career Coach" is a writing exercise guide from Christina Katz as she advises readers on how to improve their writing, appealing to your intended audience, and much advice on the most difficult wall for many to climb - publishing. With plenty of practical advice for life alongside the wisdom for literary pursuits, "The Writer's Workout" is a strongly recommended and top pick for writing and publishing collections.

Now Write! Mysteries
Sherry Ellis & Laurie Lamson, editors
Penguin Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
9781585429035, $14.95, www.penguin.com

There's more to a mystery than a crime and a culprit. "Now Write! Mysteries" is an advisory guide for those who love mysteries and want to try their own pen to create their own stories, be it for novels, screenplays, or other formats. With many tips and tricks and what to think about no matter what type or degree of mystery one is pondering of creating, "Now Write! Mysteries" is a choice and much recommended read for aspiring writers with a love of keeping people guessing.


The Business Shelf

The Optimization Edge
Steve Sashihara
The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10121-2298
978071746571, $35.00, www.books.mcgraw-hill.com

Making the best of what you have can mean the world. "The Optimization Edge: Reinventing Decision Making to Maximize All Your Company's Assets" is a guide for business managers to the things one can do to make the most out of one's business. Keeping a business's fundamentals running cleanly, making everything run more smoothly, and keeping the company prepared for any problems that may arise, "The Optimization Edge" is an excellent and choice pick for any business manager who believes his company can do better than it's doing.

Delivering Knock Your Socks Off Service
Performance Research Associates, Inc.
American Management Association
1601 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
9780814417553, $18.95, www.amacombooks.org

Nothing will get a customer coming back faster than excellent service. "Delivering Knock Your Socks Off Service" is a business guide from Performance Research Associates as they advise business leaders to provide that excellent service. Discussing the exact value of good service, dealing with customer complaints, the power of simply listening, and when being the hero is impossible. "Delivering Knock Your Socks Off Service" is a strongly recommended pick for any manager who thinks that extra mile will make all the difference.


The Self-Help Shelf

Do You Quantum Think?
Dianne Collins
Select Books
1 Union Square West
Suite 909
New York City, NY 10003
9781590790748, $24.95, www.selectbooks.com

New light can change one's perspective on the whole world. "Do You Quantum Think?: New Thinking That Will ROCK Your World" is a spiritual and philosophical read from Dianne Collins. Stating that the world changes so fast that it can often be difficult to keep up with, Collins advises a unique brand of thinking that moves with the world. Bringing a find assortment of thought to the table, "Do You Quantum Think?" is a fine assortment of knowledge and thought, very much recommended.

The Beauty Blueprint
Michelle Phillips
Hay House, Inc.
PO Box 5100
Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100
9781401931735, $14.95, www.hayhouse.com

Beauty is a goal that is easier said than done. "The Beauty Blueprint: 8 Steps to Building the Life and Look of Your Dreams" is an inspirational guide from Michelle Phillips, life coach and make up artist as she seeks to inspire and motivate readers to find their own drive and success through their lives. Through your twenties and thirties, you have your chances to make the best time of your life, and Phillips advises readers how to get outer and inner beauty. "The Beauty Blueprint" is a fine and recommended choice for self-help and health collections

The 7 Minute Solution
Allyson Lewis
The Free Press
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
9781451628227, $25.00, www.simonsays.com

A little time to evaluate what's important can mean everything. "The 7 Minute Solution: Creating a Life with Meaning 7 Minutes at a Time" is an advisory from Allyson Lewis on how to focus one's life with seven minutes of thought daily. During that time, she challenges readers to assess their situation, to find their motivation, understand if they are learning, finding their own faith, and using what they've learned to forge their own path. "The 7 Minute Solution" is a powerful and much recommended pick for self-help and inspirational community library collections.


The Travel Shelf

Costa Rica
Christopher P. Baker
Avalon Travel
1700 Fourth Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
9781598807837, $21.99, www.moon.com

Why should one embrace Costa Rica over the other sunny nations of Latin America? "Costa Rica" is a travel guide from Christopher P. Baker as he presents why, exploring how one can make a vacation to Costa Rica a relaxing experience that one would never forget. Restaurants, lodgings, sights to be seen, things to do, and so much more, "Costa Rica" is an ideal guide for those who are trying to choose a vacation that will stay with them for years to come.


The Human Sexuality Shelf

Sexuality & Long-Term Care
Gayle Appel Doll
Health Professions Press, Inc.
PO Box 10624
Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
9781932529746, $38.95, www.healthpropress.com

Once that puberty switch turns on, it never turns off, even at advanced aged. "Sexuality & Long-Term Care: Understanding and Supporting the Needs of Older Adults" discuses a topic not often discussed when speaking of senior care. Discussing senior love and the place of care staff and nurses in long term care situations, author Gayle Appel Doll provides a comprehensive guide to understanding senior sexuality for the care provider. "Sexuality & Long-Term Care" is an excellent and recommended addition to any health reference collection.


The Gardening Shelf

The Chinese Medicinal Herb Farm
Peg Schafer
Chelsea Green Publishing Company
PO Box 428
White River Junction, VT 05001-0428
9781603583305, $34.95, www.chelseagreen.com

Much of modern medicine is derived from a great variety of plants, where traditional Chinese medicine found its treatments. "The Chinese Medicinal Herb Farm: A Cultivator's Guide to Small-Scale Organic Herb Production" discusses how one can create their own personally grown medicinal herb garden, and what needs to be understood to make it a useful supply for the grower. With full color photos assisting in an understanding of each herb, its purpose, and its growing conditions, "The Chinese Medicinal Herb Farm" is very much worth considering for those who want to try different with their gardens.


The Automotive Shelf

The Cars of American Motors
Marc Cranswick
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786446728, $38.00, www.mcfarlandpub.com

Defiant against the behemoth auto companies of the 1950, "The Cars of American Motors" chronicles the times of American Motors, who throughout their existence came to be known for a unique quality that earns them renown in automotive history. Their designs improved the automobile and led to the creation of many classic cars, and proved to be a favorite by many car enthusiasts until their absorption by Chrysler in 1987. "The Cars of American Motors" is a must for any automobile enthusiast who wants to learn more about the place of American motors in twentieth century American history.


The Psychology Shelf

Hijacked by Eros
Daryl Sharp
Inner City Books
Box 1271, Station Q
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M4T 2P4
9781894574358, $25.00, www.innercitybooks.net

Through story and legend, we can explore the aspects of knowledge and psychology. "Hijacked by Eros: A Jungian Analyst's Picaresque Adventures in the Pleroma" is the third book of the Eros Trilogy from Daryl Sharp, who explores the principles and thoughts behind Jungian psychology and the Eros through poetry, prose, and scholarly analysis. "Hijacked by Eros" is an excellent and choice addition to any psychology collection focusing on the works of Jung.


The Biography Shelf

Jimmy Cliff
David Katz
Interlink Publishing Group
46 Crosby Street
Northampton, MA 01060-1804
9781566568692, $17.00, www.interlinkbooks.com

Every country has its contributions to international culture, and Jimmy Cliff has gone beyond the call of duty. "Jimmy Cliff: An Unauthorized Biography" follows the Jamaican Rock Icon who has produced nearly thirty albums and has gained national honors in his own country, and is well known to hardcore rock and roll followers everywhere. Telling his personal story as well as the story of his music, "Jimmy Cliff" is a strong pick for anyone who wants to learn about this important musician.

Prelude to Courage
David H. Bergquist
Heritage Books
100 Railroad Ave. #104
Westminster, MD 21157
9780788453564, $22.00, www.heritagebooks.com

To go to war is to face a very good chance that will lead to your demise. "Prelude to Courage: An Air Warrior's Journey of Faith" is a chronicle from David H. Bergquist about one of these men who joined the Air Force during World War II and lead strongly throughout the Pacific Theater of the war. Austin Rodney Keith is a story of one of a half million Americans who met their end in the war, as Bergquist presents a story of war's tragedy. "Prelude to Courage" is an excellent and much recommended pick for military biography collections.


The Education Shelf

The Will to Lead, the Skill to Teach
Anthony Muhammad & Sharroky Hollie
Solution Tree
555 North Morton Street
Bloomington, IN 47404
97819355542544, $19.95, www.solution-tree.com

Teaching isn't something done without spirit. "The Will to Lead, the Skill to Teach: Transforming Schools at Every Level" is an inspirational guide for those seeking an uplifting philosophy for them to pursue in their teaching career. Analyzing modern education and where it can be improved, encouraging teachers to fight a toxic school culture and take on activism for their students, "The Will to Lead, the Skill to Teach" is an inspirational and much recommended read for any teacher or school administrator.

A Teaching Subject
Joseph Harris
Utah State University Press
7800 Old Main Hill
Logan, Utah 84322
9780874218664, $26.95, www.USUPress.org

The art of writing requires a study all its own. "A Teaching Subject: Composition Since 1966" traces the evolution of the college writing course since the Dartmouth Seminar of 1966. Since then, writing courses have been viewed as a separate study from traditional English and language arts courses. Stating that writing remains as vital as ever, Joseph Harris provides an excellent and recommended pick for community library education and writing collections with "A Teaching Subject".

Mometrix Media LLC
3827 Phelan #179, Beaumont, TX 77707
www.mometrix.com 1-888-248-1219

Mometrix Media is a specialty publisher focusing on producing study guides for college entrance exams, medical/nursing exams, military exams, teacher certification exams, insurance exams, dental exams, graduate and professional school exams. Three of their newest titles are in complete compliance with Mometrix Media's standards of excellence. "CNOR Exam Secrets" (9781609710002, 156 pages, $105.99); "Evolve Reach Admission Assessment (HESI A2) (9781609710149, 180 pages, 62.99); and "Secrets Of The TEAS V Exam" (9781609710132, 180 pages, $62.99) are each deftly written by exam experts and specifically crafted to enable test takers to increase their exam scores. Thoroughly 'user friendly', and covering every applicable topic and concept required by test takers, each of this impressive study guides are strongly recommended and well worth the investment of the test takers time and money. As a general recommendation, anyone seeking to take a professional certification test would be well advised to visit the Mometrix Media web site at www.mometrix.com for a complete listing of their numerous and diverse study manuals and test taking guides.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Vamplayers
Rusty Fischer
Medallion Press, Inc.
1020 Cedar Lane, No. 2N
St. Charles, IL 60174
9781605424491, $9.95, www.medallionpress.com

In undeath, some things never change. "Vamplayers" is a unique spin vampires and romance, following Lily Fielding, a vampire-hunter in training. Charged with protecting girls from the Vamplayers, vampire-players with cruel intent for their victims, Lily finds her assignment tougher than she ever thought it would be. "Vamplayers" is an exciting and recommended pick for dark fantasy collections.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

The Canine Kingdom of Scent
Anne Lill Kvam
Dogwise Publishing
403 South Mission Street, Wenatchee, WA 98801
97819292422726, $12.95, www.dogwise.com

The dog's nose is something very well known, but that sense can be trained. "The Canine Kingdom of Scent: Fun Activities Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts" is a guide from Anne Lill Kvam as she advises readers on how to train your dog's sense of smell and help then gain mastery over this powerful tool - and have fun for dog and owner as well. A strong pick for those who want to inspire greatness in their dog while killing an afternoon, "The Canine Kingdom of Scent" is a strongly recommended pick that shouldn't be missed.


The Aging Shelf

Wrinkles Don't Hurt
Ruth Fishel
Health Communications, Inc.
3201 S.W. 15th Street
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442-8190
9780757315909, $14.95, www.hcibooks.com

Good aging is aging that is embraced. "Wrinkles Don't Hurt: Daily Meditations of Aging Mindfully" is an inspirational read from Ruth Fishel, who provides a powerful set of affirmations for those facing growing age and all the pressures that go along with it. With humor and practicality, Fishel advocates mindfulness, to make sure one is always aware of the direction they go. "Wrinkles Don't Hurt" is a solid and recommended read for community library self-help and aging collections.


The Hunting/Fishing Shelf

Hunting, Fishing, and Camping
Leon Leonwood Bean
Down East Books
PO Box 679
Camden, ME 04843
9781608930128, $19.95, www.downeastbooks.com

LL Bean is known for vast amounts of mail order goods, but it started from a love of hunting and fishing. "Hunting, Fishing, and Camping" is a reprinting of the famed story of the American dream, following Leon Leonwood Bean, patriarch of the famed LL Bean catalogs who from a new shoe for hiking and camping, carved his place in American culture. In 1942, after he got his business going, he wrote a book about the things he loved, with practical wisdom. Over half a century later, Down East Books presents a reprinting enhanced by full color photos, with wisdom that remains practical still. "Hunting, Fishing, and Camping" is a fine pick for community library hunting and fishing reference collections.


The Cookbook Shelf

My Family Table
John Besh
Andrews & McMeel
1130 Walnut Street
Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449407872, $35.00, www.andrewsmcmeel.com

The home cooked meal is becoming a lost art in many households. "My Family Table: A Passionate Plea for Home Cooking" is an inspiring read from John Besh, as he advocates home cooking and its value to the family. With full color photographs and easy to follow recipes, Besh walks readers through a vast array of dishes for any palette, with the focus of old fashioned cooking with his own special and delicious twist. "My Family Table" is a moving and much recommended pick for anyone's personal collection who wants to make those home cooked meals something truly special.

The Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book: Bridal Edition
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9780470560761, $29.99, www.amazon.com

All too often today's young women do not have much by the way of a culinary education from their own mothers or from highschool homemaker classes. That's why "The Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book: Bridal Edition" makes such a useful and timely gift for a newly wed. This 720-page compendium begins with an introduction to how a kitchen would be ideally set up and operated. This is followed by a chapter devoted to the basics of daily cooking from 'a table for two' to 'couples cooking'. Then detailed attention is given to culinary celebration from hosting a party, to easy appetizers, to holiday dinners, to romantic dining, and more. The rest of "The Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book: Bridal Edition" is a compilation of 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes that will please any palate and satisfy any appetite. If there is only one cookbook to start off a marriage with, make it "The Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book: Bridal Edition"!

Celebrating with the Kosher Butcher's Wife
Sharon Lurie
Struik
c/o International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9781770078666, $29.95, www.randomstruk.co.za

A worthy meat dish adds to any celebration. "Celebrating with the Kosher Butcher's Wife" is packed cover to cover with recipes from Sharon Lurie, focusing on celebrating and recipes from herself, her family, with the aim of celebrating many Jewish festivals, although the recipes within can be embraced by anyone from any walk of life. With full color photos throughout and comprehensive recipes, "Celebrating with the Kosher Butcher's Wife" is a fine pick for any cook book collection.

Grilling Surf and Turf
Char-Broil
Creative Homeowner
24 Park Way
Saddle River, NJ 07450-2311
9781580115445, $14.95, www.creativehomeowner.com

The grill is the starting point for many an excellent dish. "Grilling Surf and Turf" is an assortment of one hundred and forty recipes that enter on the grill for preparation. Recipes for everything from grilled fish, burgers, ribs, and steaks, to side dishes such as grilled vegetables and potatoes, to even grilled desserts, "Grilling Surf and Turf" is a full color cook book for anyone who loves grilled food and wants to take their grilling skills to the next level.

Ultimate Cookies
Julia M. Usher
Gibbs Smith, Publisher
PO Box 667
Layton UT 84041
9781423619345, $24.99, www.gibbs-smith.com

Cookies can both be a treasure of flavor and a treasure of art. "Ultimate Cookies" is a guide to a creative spin on cookies and many art projects that can be crafted with them from Julia M. Usher, as she spins a unique craft of cookie and thought all throughout. For every occasion of the year with plenty of original ideas all throughout, photographer provides full color photography all throughout. "Ultimate Cookies" is a strongly recommended pick for novelty cookbook collections, highly recommended.

The Newlywed Cookbook
Sarah Copeland
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
9780811876834, $35.00, www.chroniclebooks.com

The bonding of marriage can be enhanced by working together on many fronts. "The Newlywed Cookbook: Fresh Ideas & Modern Recipes for Cooking With & For Each Other" is a collection of recipes focused on working and cooking together to make something really quite memorable for the both of them. With dishes for any occasion and for any palette, Sarah Copeland brings romance and food together all quite well. With full color photos all throughout, "The Newlywed Cookbook" is an excellent and much recommended read, not to be missed.


The Sports Shelf

Manly Art
George Kimball
McBooks Press, Inc.
520 North Meadow Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
9781590135716 $24.95 www.mcbooks.com

Manly Art is a collection of boxing-related commentaries, criticism, reporting, and analysis written by award-winning sports journalist George Kimball over the past ten years. Specific writings analyze the victories and losses of great boxers of the past as well as competitive boxers of the present, including Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Manny Pacquiao, Oscar de la Hoya, Diego Corrales, and many more. An especial treat for boxing fans, Manly Art also offers sports scholars a multifaceted perspective of modern-day boxing's evolution. Highly recommended.

Complete Conditioning for Football
Pat Ivey & Josh Stoner
Human Kinetics Publishers, Inc.
PO Box 5076
Champaign, IL 61820-5076
9780736093194, $24.95, www.HumanKinetics.com

Football players need to be able to give and take hits on the field, while roaring down the field with the ball. "Complete Conditioning for Football" discusses the peak level of fitness one needs to successfully play football at a professional level. Football requires a certain level of resilience that is unlike any other sport, and authors Pat Ivey & Josh Stoner walk readers through the detail of the fitness program that must be dealt with. With a bonus DVD that demonstrates the training protocol gridiron players face, "Complete Conditional for Football" is a must for anyone who thinks they may have what it takes or simply wants to understand the peak physical condition needed.

The Grads are Playing Tonight!
M. Ann Hall
University of Alberta Press
Ring House 2
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6G 2E1
9780888656026, $29.95, www.uap.ualberta.ca

When a team wins 95% of its games, it earns a certain place in sports history. "The Grads are Playing Tonight! The Story of the Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club" discusses the domination by the Edmonton Grads for a quarter century under the guidance of J. Percy Page. Not only winning championships, the traveled the world to continue their domination. "The Grads are Playing Tonight!" is a strongly recommended pick for those who want to learn of a lesser spoken of part of sports and basketball history.


The Crafts Shelf

Show Your Colors
Jamie Hogsett & Sara Hardin Oehler
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle
Waukesha, WI 53186
9780871167118, $19.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com

Jewelry has more color than silver and gold. "Show Your Colors: 30 Flexible Beading Wire Jewelry Projects" is a collection of craft projects one can embark on using colored wire to create unique works that truly accessorize one's appearance. With full color photos that explain and help enhance the projects, "Show Your Colors" is a do-it-yourself guide for creative jewelcrafters who are seeking the first step to their own inspirations in work.


The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

Picturing Tolkien
Janice M. Bogstad and Philip E. Kaveny, editors
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786446360 $35.00 www.mcfarlandpub.com

Picturing Tolkien: Essays on Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings Film Trilogy gathers a diversity of scholarly writings by learned authors scrutinizing the award-winning and extraordinarily popular live-action adaptations of Tolkien's classic fantasy novels. Storytelling techniques of cinema, structure, character, and culture are especially examined and critiqued at length. Individual essays include "'It's Alive!': Tolkien's Monster on the Screen", "Frodo Lives but Gollum Redeems the Blood of Kings", "Concerning Horses: Establishing Cultural Settings from Tolkien to Jackson", "Jackson's Aragorn and the American Superhero Monomyth", and much more. Essay notes and an index round out this extraordinary cross-examination of one of the most widely beloved modern fantasy movies, sure to prove fascinating to "Lord of the Rings" movie fans and cinema scholars alike.

Acting The Active Process
Tom McNally
Kendall Hunt Publishing Company
4050 Westmark Drive
Dubuque, IA 52004-1840
9780757597213, $60.00, www.kendallhunt.com

Acting is an art all its own, and has led to some not fully understanding it. "Acting: The Active Process" is an motivational read for those who want to embrace acting as a way to express themselves more fully in life. McNally discusses the many methods and concepts behind acting, from founding a character, understanding the problem, embracing the soul, from reading lines to improv, and much more, "Acting" is a fine pick for those who want to better understand the power of expressing oneself on stage.


The Art Shelf

How to Draw Chiller Monsters, Werewolves, Vampires, and Zombies
J. David Spurlock
Watson Guptill Publications
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780823095322, $19.99, www.wgpub.com

It's easy to draw an abomination - in a bad way. It takes a bit more skill to draw an abomination in a good way. "How to Draw Chiller Monsters, Werewolves, Vampires, and Zombies" is a guide to drawing the creepy monsters of the night with both tradition and creativity in capturing the themes of horror and terror. With plenty of art throughout in full color and many walkthroughs on making memorable art, "How to Draw Chiller Monsters, Werewolves, Vampires, and Zombies" is a fine pick for any aspiring horror artist.


The Photography Shelf

You and I
Ryan McGinley
Twin Palms Publishers
54 1/2 East San Francisco Street
Santa Fe, NM 87501
9781931885515, $75.00, www.twinpalms.com

A photo can be all too telling. "You and I" is a collection of photography from Ryan McGinley, as he and his associates, representative of the youth culture seek to capture the frank nature of life and the moments we live in. His photos use tasteful application of nudity all throughout, touching on a sort of metaphor for freedom and the clash of private and public lives that we all often face. "You and I" is an eye-catching collection that has plenty to provoke thought about the world, making it a fine pick for coffee tables and general photography collections.


The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf

Modern Masters Volume 27: Ron Garney
Jorge Khoury & Eric Nolen-Weathington
TwoMorrows Publishing
10407 Bedfordtown Drive
Raleigh, NC 27614
9781605490403 $15.95 www.twomorrows.com

Modern Masters Volume 27: Ron Garney continues publisher TwoMorrows' impressive series spotlighting the work and legacy of popular modern comic book artists. A wealth of Garney's black-and-white illustrations on almost every page and a sampling of color pages enhance this book-length interview with a talented and dedicated man about his work, including his well-known runs on such widely loved titles as "Captain America", "Hulk", "Wolverine", and "Weapon X". Garney's talent for portraying both action and emotion stands out in this engaging tribute enthusiastically recommended for any superhero comic fan who has ever loved his work.

The Wonder Years
Mark Alexander
TwoMorrows Publishing
10407 Bedfordtown Drive
Raleigh, NC 27614
9781605490380, $19.95, www.twomorrows.com

The impact of Jack Kirby's artwork is not to be understated in the world of comics. "Lee & Kirby: The Wonder Years" tells the story of the famed duo of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, creators of the Fantastic Four and other famed Silver Sage 1960s comics for Marvel. A trip through nostalgia written by a true fan in Mark Alexander who finished the tribute shortly before his death. "Lee & Kirby" is a fine pick for those who want a retrospective on the silver age of comics.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Sweet Shawlettes
Jean Moss
The Taunton Press
63 South Main Street
Newtown, CT 06470
9781600854002, $21.95, www.taunton.com

There's a certain quality in homemade that can't be matched in design. "Sweet Shawlettes: 25 Irresistible Patterns for Knitting Cowls, Capelets, and More" is a guide to creating these patterns for these fabrics that bring a unique style and warmth. With full color photographs all throughout, each design touches on what's needed to create them and step by step instructions. For those with a love of needlework, "Sweet Shawlettes" is an excellent source of ideas, very much recommended.


The Relationship Shelf

The Spiritual Girl's Guide to Dating
Amy Leigh Mercree
Adams Media Corporation
57 Littlefield Street, 2nd floor
Avon, MA 02322
9781440529801, $15.95, www.adamsmedia.com

For those with faith and soul, one would require the one in their lives to share that. "The Spiritual Girl's Guide to Dating: Your Enlightened Path to Love, Sex, & Soul Mates" is a sage read from Amy Leigh Mercee who advises readers on how to find that soul mate out there with a bit of soul behind him. Honest and frank reading, Mercee touches on how to find worthy guys and how to avoid the ones that will bring only heartbreak. "The Spiritual Girl's Guide to Dating" is a much for those who hold spirit dear and have no one to share it with.


The Memoir Shelf

Up from Down
Ted Adamson
Westbow
1663 Liberty Dr. Suite #300
Bloomington, IN 47403
9781449725013, $11.95, www.westbowpress.com

Addiction can tear apart our lives. "Up from Down: A True Story of Recovery From Addiction" is a memoir from Ted Adamson as he discusses his battles with heroin addiction, as he shares his story with a no holds barred look at addiction and the damage it can do to our lives. Frank and honest, he hopes his story will ring true with other addicts and help them find their way through. "Up from Down" is an excellent and thoughtful memoir, not to be overlooked.


The Audiobook Shelf

My Little Town: Stories from Lake Wobegon
Garrison Keillor
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781611745504 $29.95 www.highbridgeaudio.com

My Little Town: Stories from Lake Wobegon is the audiobook collection of 18 tales from the widely beloved radio show "A Prairie Home Companion", chronicling the daily lives and trials of salt-of-the-earth folk, including Pastor and Mrs. Ingqvist's departure from Lake Wobegon and the coming of Pastor Liz. Garrison Keillor's wonderful brand of folksy charm distinguishes this nostalgic series that cherishes hard work and country culture. A treat for anyone who has every enjoyed "A Prairie Home Companion", My Little Town is sure to prove a popular pick especially for public library audiobook collections. 3 CDs, 3 1/2 hours.

How Great Is Your God
Bill Dewees, narrator
Worthy Publishing
c/o Oasis Audio
289 Main Place
Carol Stream, IL 60188
9781598599978 $12.99 www.oasisaudio.com

How Great Is Your God: Classic Writings from History's Greatest Christian Thinkers in Contemporary English is the unabridged rendition of 365 daily devotional readings from every century and an immense variety of different traditions within the Christian faith. Quotes from great and pious people including C.S. Lewis, John Calvin, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Wesley, and many more fill this inspirational and motivational anthology. Writings from the earliest Christians are presented in modern English, making the wisdom of How Great Is Your God fully accessible to listeners of all backgrounds. An excellent choice for private spiritual reflection. 2 MP3 discs.

Oath of Office
Michael Palmer, author
Robert Petkoff, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427209955 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com

Oath of Office is a chilling novel of suspense, intrigue, and murder by bestselling author Michael Palmer. When troubled physician Dr. John Meacham embarks on a shooting rampage, slaughtering his associate, staff, and two patients before killing himself, Dr. Lou Welcome is blamed for the tragedy. Welcome had counseled Meacham for years when Meacham's medical license was suspended, and worked exhaustively to get Meacham's license returned. Disturbed by the tragedy, Welcome tries to understand what could have driven Meacham to such deadly lengths, and gradually uncovers a ruthless conspiracy pointing to the White House itself. A tense, driven story from beginning to end, Oath of Office is an excellent choice for mystery lovers and is sure to be a popular pick in public library audiobook collections. 8 CDs, 10.5 hours.

Kill Switch
Neal Baer and Jonathan Greene, authors
Bernadette Dunne, narrator
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969
Ashland, OR 97520
9781455126217 $76.00 www.BlackstoneAudio.com

Kill Switch is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a suspenseful crime thriller. Claire Waters is a forensic psychologist with a knack for working with some of the most remorseless killers in the psychiatric wing of New York City's Rikers Island. She begins to lose her professional composure in dealing with Quimby, and makes mistakes that leave her vulnerable. A homicidal maniac is stalking the streets of New York and has her in his sights, in this gripping, edge-of-one's seat novel that will keep listeners hooked until the very end. Public library collections will find Kill Switch a popular pick! 8 CDs, 9 hours.

Trifles
Starring Jeanie Hackett and Amy Madigan
Susan Glaspell
L.A. Theatre Works
681 Venice Boulevard
Venice, CA 90291
9781580818346 $12.95 www.latw.org

Trifles is the full-cast audio performance of a feminist one-act play originally written by Susan Glaspell in 1916, based on a real-life murder case that she reported for the Des Moines News. The drama unfolds as a woman is accused of strangling her husband; as the investigation unfolds, it reveals the inherent problems of an era when women were considered to be little more than the husband's property - mere trifles, as it were. The expert acting of the cast brings a vivid, realistic dimension to this modern classic, highly recommended especially for college and public library audiobook collections. 1 CD, 29 min.

Galaxy in Flames
Ben Counter, author
Martyn Ellis, narrator
The Black Library
c/o BL Publishing
1525 Hulse Road, Unit 1
Pt. Pleasant, NJ 08742
9781849700955 $29.95 www.blacklibrary.com

Galaxy in Flames: The Heresy Revealed is the abridged audiobook rendition of an epic tale of brutal, galaxy-spanning conflict set in the enduringly popular Warhammer 40,000 science fiction wargaming and role-playing universe. Once a legend among the Imperial forces, Warmaster Horus has changed allegiance to inhumanly dark powers, razing a rebel planet with virus bomb and betraying the Space Marines - this is only the beginning of The Horus Heresy. A handful of Space Marine warriors, including Garviel Loken and Saul Tarvitz, must struggle desperately to not only survive, but also inform Terra of the Warmaster's treachery. Violent, shocking, and vividly exciting, Galaxy in Flames is an excellent introduction to Warhammer's dark universe especially ideal for connoisseurs of military fantasy and science fiction. 5 CDs, 6 hours.


The Music CD Shelf

Shi Keyah: Songs for the People
Radmilla Cody with Herman Cody
Canyon Records Productions
3131 West Clarendon Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85017
$14.98 www.canyonrecords.com

Shi Keyah: Songs for the People is an emotional music CD of songs performed in the traditional style of the Dine Native American tribe (also colloquially known as Navajo). The music honors the grace and bounty of Mother Earth, pays tribute to military veterans who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting America, and even offer a humorous glimpse of ordinary life in Dinetah. Composed by Herman Cody and beautifully performed by vocalist Radmilla Cody, Shi Keyah: Songs for the People is enthusiastically recommended for Native American music collections. The tracks are "Morning Greeting" (3:37), "Honoring the Homeland" (2:44), "Beautiful Mother Earth" (5:20), "Navajo Warrior" (2:55), "Code Talker" (3:35), "Where You Are?" (3:24), "Commodity Blues" (2:28), "Roper's Song" (3:43), "Native Food Song" (2:42), "They Care For Me/Moccasin Song" (2:46), "Five Agencies Song" (3:44), "The Bluebird" (2:47), "Shi Naasha" (2:51), and "A Gift to Us" (3:08).

Drum Boy: Mistikwaskihk Napesis
Northern Cree
Canyon Records Productions
3131 West Clarendon Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85017
$14.98 www.canyonrecords.com

The esteemed Native American music publication company of Canyon Records presents Drum Boy: Mistikwaskihk Napesis, an album of pow-wow songs recorded live at Saddle Lake, by Grammy-nominated Native American performers Northern Cree. A tribute to the cultural traditions cherished by all Native American tribes, Drum Boy is inclusive in its welcome to showing honor at the pow-wow circle, and an a top pick for any listener wanting to revel in reverence for the blessed gift of life itself. The tracks are "Wanbli" (2:05), "Humble" (5:10), "Fass and Grancy" (2:04), "Kainai Krusher" (4:55), "Hops-A-Lot" (3:47), "Slickzter" (9:52), "Pride" (3:49), "Siouxdance" (3:50), "Styles" (3:19), "Tea Pot" (4:31), "The Explosion" (3:18), and "Redman" (4:00). 1 CD, 51 min. 20 sec.

Opening to Bliss
Wah!
Sounds True Audio
413 South Arthur Avenue
Louisville, CO 80027
$12.99 www.soundstrue.com

Opening to Bliss is an album of restful, contemplative music composed especially to synergize with the practices of yoga, meditation, and healing arts. An excellent way to help prepare one's mind for discipline, and prepare one's soul for the cultivation of compassion, Opening to Bliss is highly recommended to seekers of grace and harmony. The tracks are "Bhuvaneshwari" (5:17), "Saraswati" (6:46), "Om Namah Shivaya" (5:25), "Hare Krishna" (9:26), "Anusara Prayer" (7:34), "Dream" (4:26), "Akasha Ma" (7:46), "Heart Sutra" (7:29), "Om Mani Padme Hum" (5:42), "Govinda Jaya Jaya" (7:43), and "Closing" (3:41). 1 CD, 1 hr 11 min.

Love Lies
Kami Thompson
Warner Music Group
c/o FlipSwitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207
Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$21.54 www.flipswitchPR.com

Singer and songwriter Kami Thompson presents Love Lies, a passionate album that reverberates with the experiences of heartbreak, hope, mourning, defiance, and the regret of love gone sadly wrong. Thompson's dual skill with her voice and the guitar shine through this emotionally moving collection, sure to stir the hearts of listeners from all walks of life. The tracks are "Little Boy Blue" (4:11), "4,000 Miles" (2:17), "Nice Cars" (2:18), "Gotta Hold On" (4:09), "Stormy" (4:04), "Never Again" (4:19), "Tick Tock" (2:46), "Want You Back" (4:56), "Blood Wedding" (4:12), and "Don't Bother Me" (2:59).

Basta Mafia!
Zdob Si Zdub
Asphalt Tango Records
c/o FlipSwitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207
Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$20.97 www.flipswitchPR.com

Zdob Si Zdub, a Moldavian folk band drawing inspiration from the modern genres of ska and punk, presents Basta Mafia!, a tingling rock album of electronica jazz and multicultural flavor. The essence of Basta Mafia! is about calling for a break from old ways, without abandoning their most beloved elements, and exploring the wonders of new musical transformations. An exuberantly lively album that lends itself especially well to workouts, car trips, or any occasion where the listener needs an energetic boost, Basta Mafia! is highly recommended. The tracks are "Basta Mafia" (3:30), "Running" (4:17), "Eternal Kiss" (4:04), "Gipsy Life" (5:07), "We Are Free" (3:43), "Maria" (4:03), "Haiduk" (3:10), "Trece Vremea Omului" (3:17), "Nistru" (5:13), "Good Bye" (4:44), "F-S-S-O" (5:02), "The Holy Fuel" (3:11), and "So Lucky" (3:51).

Born Again
Brian Flynn
World Library Publications
3708 River Road, Suite 400
Franklin Park, IL 60131-2158
$17.00 www.wlpmusic.com

Born Again is an inspirational album of beautiful, liturgical songs brought to life by Brian Flynn's guitar and vocal talent. Overflowing with reverence for God, and gratitude for the blessings of Jesus Christ, Born Again is especially appropriate for moments of religious worship, whether at a formal church setting or in the privacy of one's own home. Born Again is highly recommended for Christian listeners of all walks of life. The tracks are "Born Again" (4:40), "The Altar of the Lord" (5:01), "The Prodigal Father" (5:58), "The Name of Jesus" (3:53), "Our Hope Is in God" (4:36), "Here in This Place" (4:35), "Communio" (4:01), "We Bring our Gifts to Your Altar" (3:43), "Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament" (4:05), "The Greatest Gift" (5:13), "Act of Contrition" (3:43), and "The Upper Room" (4:43).


The DVD Shelf

Screen Printing: The 4 Basic Techniques
Sharyn Pak
On Air Video Inc.
8203 Westminster Rd.
Elkins Park, PA 19027
$16.95 www.onairvideo.com

Screen Printing: The 4 Basic Techniques is a DVD how-to guide to using silk screen printing to create exciting designs for posters, t-shirts, greeting cards, and fine art prints. (Viewer access to screen frames, stencil materials, printing inks, printing surfaces, etc. is necessary to gain the full experience of practicing screen printing, of course). Host Sharyn Pak walks viewers through four of the most popular screen printing methods step-by-step: paper stencil, positive or negative blockout, film stencil, and photo emulsion. Screen Printing: The 4 Basic Techniques is especially ideal for beginners; it opens with review of the materials and tools used in screen printing, including instructions for preparing and maintaining the necessary equipment. An accessible, informative, and user-friendly resource, highly recommended to anyone interested in screen printing, whether as a hobby or for a home business. 73 min.

Yoga for Cancer Recovery
Claire Petretti
Ocean Soul Yoga
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.99 www.oceansoulyoga.com www.411videoinfo.com

Yoga master and cancer survivor Claire Petretti hosts Yoga for Cancer Recovery, a health and fitness DVD designed especially to help individuals enduring cancer treatment and recovery. A 60-minute yoga practice segment features postures designed to promote energy, flexibility, strength, improved movement, and overall body flow, while a 30-minute relaxation practice, with focus on breathing and rejuvenating one's energy, is the perfect antidote to stress and tension. Although intended especially for those recovering from cancer or combating other types of intractable illness, Yoga for Cancer Recovery is quite beneficial to users of all backgrounds. Highly recommended. 95 min.

Yoga + Weights
Kimberly Fowler
YAS Productions
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$14.95 www.go2yas.com www.411videoinfo.com

Featuring YAS Fitness Center founder and owner Kimberly Fowler, Yoga + Weights is a yoga-hybrid fitness DVD that encourages viewers to use free weights as their own personal difficulty adjuster for a yoga pose workout designed to strengthen and tone every major muscle group in the body. Yoga + Weights is part of Fowler's "Let's Get Ripped!" series of strength training videos ideal for building lean muscle mass for long-term health, weight control, and metabolism benefits. An energetic, user-friendly workout accessible to viewers of all ages and fitness levels, Yoga + Weights is especially recommended as a strength training supplement to viewers who can ill afford expensive equipment or gym memberships. 30 min.

ChogaFlow
Valerie Rogers
www.chogaflow.com
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.95 www.411videoinfo.com

Suitable for practitioners of all skill and experience levels, ChogaFlow is a fitness DVD featuring Registered Yoga Alliance Teacher Valerie Rogers' unique practice of seated and standing chair yoga. A sturdy chair that supports the practitioner's weight and a non-slip yoga mat are the only materials needed to undertake the exercises, which are particularly ideal for elderly viewers or those whose physical limitations make getting down to or up from the floor difficult. ChogaFlow allows one to enjoy the full flexibility, relaxation benefits, and pure joy of yoga without putting one's knees to the floor. Highly recommended. 55 min.

Jari Love's Get Extremely Ripped! 1000 Hardcore
Jari Love
411 Video Information
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$14.95 www.jarilove.com www.411videoinfo.com

Shot in high definition, Jari Love's Get Extremely Ripped! 1000 Hardcore is the latest fitness DVD in the award-winning "Get Ripped!" workout series by certified personal trainer Jari Love. Promoting an intense, endurance-boosting and muscle-building workout, 1000 Hardcore alternates between five-minute cardio segments and three-minute heavy-duty weight training exercises, for a total of 6 different cardio segments and 8 different strength training segments, all sorted into two 30 minute workout blocks that can be performed separately or sequentially. The viewer also has the option of playing all cardio segments together, or all weight training segments together. The only necessary equipment is a pair of inexpensive 3-8 pound hand dumbbells; use of s step is optional. 1000 Hardcore is an exhilarating, intense, and satisfying workout, enthusiastically recommended for high-energy exercise video collections. 80 min.

Ellen Barrett Live
c/o Fit PR (publicity)
195 Linden Ave., Red Hook, NY 12571
$14.95 each www.ellenbarrett.com

Two DVDs by professional fitness expert Ellen Barrett bring the energy and health benefits of her classes into the privacy of one's home. "Power Fusion" (46 min.) blends yoga and dance for a high-energy, waistline-slimming workout that includes muscle toning without bulk, and mat exercises that target the core. "Grace + Gusto" (46 min.) is a barefoot workout combining elements of Pilates and basic ballet into an accessible cardio regimen designed to improve balance, flexibility, and personal fluidity, with a final five minutes devoted to trimming belly fat and improving one's upper arms. Both DVDs are lively, invigorating, and all-around excellent additions to any DVD exercise library!

Pentrex
2652 East Walnut St.
Pasadena, CA 91107
$29.95 www.pentrex.com

Pentrex continues its long tradition of top-quality DVDs for railroad enthusiasts with four excellent picks with live color footage and hi-fi sound and narration, presented in standard definition 4x3 format. "Union Pacific's Clinchfield Challenge: 50th Anniversary of the Santa Claus Special" (156342293X, 2 hours) showcases a Challenger engine, operating in the tradition of railroads that once hauled Appalachian coal across the country; "Missouri Kansas Texas" (1563422999, 1 hour) brings the viewer on an eye-opening tour of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (popularly known as KATY) and its many types of locomotive cars; "Chesapeake & Ohio: New River Masquerade" (1563422913, 1 hour 30 min.) brings steam locomotives of the West Virginia mountains into the viewer's living room, even revealing the inside of a cab alongside Engineer Rich Melvin; and "Amtrak's Auto Train" (1563422964, 1 hour 15 min.) is the portrait of an extraordinary train that transports both passengers and their vehicles, as a luxurious alternative to stressful road trips! All four DVDs are superb gifts for railroading buffs, and quite literally the next best thing to riding classic railway trains in person. Highly recommended.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

The Private Voice Studio Handbook
Joan Frey Boytim
Hal Leonard
7777 West Bluemound Road
P.O. Box 13819, Milwaukee, WI 53213
9780634047381, $16.99, www.halleonard.com

"The Private Voice Studio Handbook" is a definitive, practical, all-embracing guide for self-employed vocal music instructors. Specializing in an organized, disciplined approach to classic vocal music for teenage or adult voices, Mrs. Boytim presents twelve chapters of extremely useful information for the beginning private vocal teacher. Subjects covered include getting started, defining one's teaching style, necessities for the vocal studio, organizational assists such as policy statements, make-up lessons, payments, etc., organization, auditioning new students, practice recommendations, musical and vocal fitness, repertoire for all ages, sacred solos and octavos, anthologies for adolescent and novice singers. and much more. Additionally, there are suggestions about vocal techniques, more about teaching style, more about the business aspect of private vocal teaching, plus the author's thoughts about working with students who are older (than the instructor) and younger (than 12). An interesting comment comparing lesson content for younger voices with teenage and adult voices: "...he (Robert Edwin, a voice teacher of children involved in professional performances) tends to divide the 30-minute lesson in the same way many of us do - 15 minutes on technique and 15 minutes on repertoire (p. 100)." Specific anthologies and collections are suggested for different age voices and different performance areas. Helpful appendices contain solfeggio syllable sheets for intro to music reading, warm-up exercises, and forms of inquiry for out of print copyrighted material, plus an NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) code of ethics for vocal instructors. Even taxes, insurance, and retirement are topics included in "The Private Voice Studio Handbook," along with a practical guide to U.S. copyright law. In total, "The Private Voice Studio Handbook" is an invaluable text tool for any beginning professional vocal music instructor, providing a basic framework of practical organizational information that will assist the starting of your career in vocal music instruction.

All The Doors To Hollywood And How To Open Them
Anne M. Strick
CreateSpace
c/o Michael & Mitchell Hamilburg Agency
149 South Barrington, #732, L.A. CA 90049
9781460996072, $7.99, www.amazon.com

In "All The Doors To Hollywood And How To Open Them", author Anne M. Strick draws upon her more that twenty years working in the film industry as a Unit Publicist, Project Coordinator, and National Publicity Director to provide aspiring actors, screenwriters, and anyone else with Hollywood ambitions and dreams with a 186-page compendium of real world information, tips, tricks, strategies, tactics and job descriptions. From accountants, gaffers, and special effects, to graphic designers, set decorators, and make-up personnel, anyone seeking to establish a career in the movie industry would be very well advised by reading "All The Doors To Hollywood And How To Open Them" as their beginning step. Also very highly recommended is Anne M. Strick's insider presentation of how movies are really made, "The Rebel Princess" (9781452864976, $15.99).


The Gaming Shelf

Robotech The New Generation Sourcebook
Irvin Jackson
Palladium Books, Inc.
39074 Webb Court
Westland, MI 48185
9781574571783 $16.95 www.palladiumbooks.com

Robotech The New Generation Sourcebook is a science fiction resource for creating pen-and-paper role-playing game adventures set during events of the alien Invid Occupation during the Third Robotech War, as portrayed in the popular Japanese anime Robotech. The Invid have transformed Earth into a gigantic factory for creating and harvesting Protoculture; most humans who are not being used as slaves or experiments are desperately struggling to survive. Only a few dare to fight back, along with a handful of micronized Zentraedi and Tirolian clones (all three races are available as player characters). Robotech The New Generation Sourcebook has the same user-friendly gaming system shared by the Palladium Megaverse, including the Rifts trans-universe world where literally anything is possible! It should be noted that Robotech The New Generation Sourcebook is not a stand-alone resource; it's meant to supplement "Robotech The Shadow Chronicles RPG", which has the core gameplay and gamemaster rules. Robotech The New Generation Sourcebook features mecha from all Robotech eras; ways to combine different mecha into "Frankenmecha"; seven new Occupational Character Classes; weapons, combat vehicles, and gear; game statistics for Invid Hives, Protoculture Farms, and Genesis pits; Invid mutations; and much more. Robotech The New Generation Sourcebook is an excellent resource for any gaming group seeking to create their own science-fiction adventures during Robotech's Invid War, and also for fans of the anime who will enjoy the story analysis of a classic television series. Of particular interest is the extended description of the mysterious Invid Regess' history, motives, and purpose - she is a complex figure, far removed from a two-dimensional villain! Highly recommended.

Cardoza Publishing
5473 South Eastern Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89119
www.cardozapub.com 1-800-577-9467

John Gollehon is a successful professional gambler who draws upon his many years of experience and expertise to author four truly exceptional instructional guides for casino gamers. "Casino Games" (9781580422932, $12.95) is a 240-page compendium introducing the standard casino games of Blackjack, Craps, Slots, Video Poker, Baccarat, Roulette, Keno, and Sports Betting. Of special note are the thoroughly 'user friendly' strategies outlined for winning in each of these categories of games found in most casinos throughout the country. "What Casinos don't Want You To Know" (9781580423038, $12.95) presents 160-pages of solid insider information including three primary traits of professional players, four of the most vulnerable games for knowledgeable players, the five most commonly committed mistakes by players, and six player 'secrets' of winning. "Conquering Casino Craps" (9781580422970, $12.95) is a 160-page instructional book covering ever aspect of the casino's most popular dice game. Of special note is the chapter devoted to identifying 'casino countermeasures' against cheaters that protect both the honest player and the house. "Commando Craps & Blackjack" (9781580422994, $12.95) is a 144-page handbook comprised of concepts and strategies to be employed when playing (and winning at) the games Craps or Blackjack at a casino. Of special note is John Gollehon's strategies for blitzing the tables, his newly revised and updated 'Imperial II' strategy for Blackjack, and his 'Bomb' strategy for winning at Craps. Each of these very strongly recommended instructional guides will prove invaluable for the amateur player and have much of practical value for even the more experienced casino gambler. Also highly recommended is a visit to the Cardoza Publishing web site at www.cardozapub.com for a complete listing of all their many and diverse gaming instruction manuals, handbooks, and instructional guides.


The Computer Shelf

Epic Win for Anonymous
Cole Stryker
The Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street
New York, NY 10012
9781590207109, $25.95, www.overlookpress.com

Anonymous can prove difficult to understand given their well...anonymous nature. "Epic Win for Anonymous: How 4Chan's Army Conquered the Web" discusses the rise of the hacktivism group, and how it spiraled out from the unique community of 4chan, tracing its ancestry throughout internet communities as a whole. They have gained recent mainstream notoriety surrounding WikiLeaks and major security breaches, as Web culture critic Cole Stryker does well in giving a unique introspective on 4chan and much more. "Epic Win for Anonymous" is a much recommended pick for anyone who wants to gain a greater understanding on the growing presence of online culture.


The Wisconsin Shelf

Timber!
Lew Freedman
Terrace Books
c/o University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe Street, Third Floor
Madison, WI 53711-2059
9780299284541, $24.95, www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress

It's more than brawn to hack down trees really quick. "Timber!: The Story of the Lumberjack World Championships" discusses this annual event where people who take pride in their careers as lumberjacks travel to Hayward, Wisconsin to compete with their skills and strength. A unique picture of the event and the people who embrace it, Lew Freedman provides a brilliant picture of a very different athletic competition. "Timber!" is a fine addition to any general interest or cultural studies collection.


James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com


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