Return to home
page Book Reviews, Book Lover Resources, Advice for Writers and Publishers
Home / Wisconsin Bookwatch

Wisconsin Bookwatch

Volume 6, Number 1 January 2011 Home | WBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Fiction Shelf Digital Publishing Shelf
Christian Studies Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Biography Shelf Education Shelf Political Science Shelf
Self-Help Shelf World History Shelf Poetry Shelf
Music Shelf Business Shelf Military Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Literary Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Native American Shelf Photography Shelf Crafts Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf American History Shelf Islamic Studies Shelf
Art Shelf Gaming Shelf Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
Nautical Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf Railroading Shelf
Computer Shelf Science/Technology Shelf Agricultural Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Social Issues Shelf Needlecraft Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

Abraham Lincoln and the Structure of Reason
David Hirsch & Dan Van Haften
Savas Beatie
PO Box 4527, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
9781932714890, $34.95, www.savasbeatie.com

Abraham Lincoln was beyond his time with his writing ability and way with words. "Abraham Lincoln and the Structure of Reason" is an analysis of the question, what made Lincoln great? A true orator, Lincoln's work has a certain quality that is hard to explain. David Hirsch & Dan Van Haften seek to use classical analysis and rhetoric to understand Lincoln's work and gain a greater understanding of what makes a good speaker. "Abraham Lincoln and the Structure of Reason" is an excellent addition to any philosophy or historical studies collection, highly recommended.

The Totally Out There Guide to Glacier National Park
Donna Love
Mountain Press
1301 South Third Street West, PO Box 2399, Missoula, MT 59806
9780878425662, $15.00, www.mountain-press.com

Glacier national park has not yet been corrupted by the touch of the modern world. "The Totally Out There Guide to Glacier National Park" is a guide to the history and attractions of this famed tourist destination and what it can offer readers and would be natural adventures. With a blend of photographs and charming artwork from Joyce Mihran Turley, "The Totally Out There Guide to Glacier National Park" is a fine pick and very highly recommended.

Homage to Americans
Eva Brann
Paul Dry Books
1616 Walnut Street, Suite 808, Philadelphia, PA 19103
9781589880627, $19.95, www.pauldrybooks.com

From the outside looking in, one can gain a true appreciation for America. "Homage to Americans: Mile-High Meditations, Close Readings, and Time-Spanning Speculations" is a collection of writings from Eva Brann who has immigrated to America early in life and has come to love her new home fondly and strongly. She has essays on democracy and the success and flaws of the American system. "Homage to Americans" is a patriotic and driven read with much to think about on America as a whole.

Project Azorian
Norman Polmar & Michael White
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591146902, $29.95

Salvage is a great boon for intelligence. "Project Azorian: The CIA and the Raising of the K-129" tells the story of the CIA's attempts to salvage a Russian submarine in 1974, in an operation which was famed by the fame billionaire and recluse Howard Hughes. This project has attracted much discussion throughout history and provides much to ponder, with the political applications as well as the technical applications as the deepest salvage attempt of its time. "Project Azorian" is an all out intriguing and fascinating read, very highly recommended.

Tent Life: Haiti
Wyatt Gallery & Edwidge Danticat
Umbrage
111 Front Street #208, Brooklyn, NY 11201
9781884167478, $39.95, www.umbragebooks.com

It's been a year since nature destroyed much of Haiti, and the wounds still shine strong. "Tent Life: Haiti" is a collection of full color photography showing how much of Haiti remains in ruin after a year has passed, and many still call tents their only homes. With an essay by famed Haitian writer Edwidge Danticat explaining the spirit, the photos add to it, showing a country in ruin where tarps over frames are considered good enough shelter from the elements. With a focus on the people and the challenges of their daily life, "Tent Life; Haiti" is inspirational at the same time it is depressing, and makes for an excellent choice for coffee table books.

Harry Potty and the Deathly Boring
Stefan Petrucha & Rick Parker
Papercutz
40 Exchange Place, Suite 1308, New York, NY 10005
Lissy Peace & Associates LTD (publicity)
PO Box 31686, Chicago, IL 60631
9781597072175, $6.99

There are some people who seek to read tasteful lampoons of their favorite books. This is not for you. "Harry Potty and the Deathly Boring" is a shameless and pun ridden take, in a good way, on the more famous boy wizard and his magical school. Sure to entertain with its own unique pun ridden style and an excellent complementary art style from Rick Parker in full color, "Harry Potty and the Deathly Boring" is ideal for fans of the more famous series who also have a sense of humor.

Man-Made Monsters
Bob Curran
New Page Books
220 West Parkway, Unit 12, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444
9781601631367, $14.99, www.newpagebooks.com

With the power of invention, man has often trumped nature in monstrosity. "Man-Made Monsters: A Field Guide to Golems, Patchwork Soldiers, Homunculi, and Other Created Creatures" looks at the history of man and its abominations. From the yearning to resurrect the dead to the lost notes of mysticism, ancient machines, and more, is a thoughtful history from Bob Curran, with fine black and white illustrations from Ian Daniels. A fun and educational read, "Man-Made Monsters" is not one to be missed for those with an interest in science gone wrong in fantasy.


The Fiction Shelf

Crazy Beautiful
Lauren Baratz-Logsted
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9780547403106, $7.99, www.hmhbooks.com

Hooks serve to repel most people, but there is someone out there for everyone. "Crazy Beautiful" is the unique love story of Lucius, a man who blew his own arms off and replaced them with claws. When Aurora enters his life and is not repulsed by his condition, Lucius is unsure of how to respond. "Crazy Beautiful" is a fun and fast paced love story, very highly recommended.

The Overnight Socialite
Bridie Clark
Weinstein Books
345 Hudson Street, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10014
9781602861282, $14.95, www.weinsteinbooks.com

From zero to hero isn't as glorious as it sounds. "The Overnight Socialite" tells the story of small town girl Lucy Ellis on the verge of giving up her dream for good and heading home. But when a Dr. Hayes has a bet to win, Lucy's luck changes, and finds her entire world shifting once more. "The Overnight Socialite" is quite the enticing read of the culture of the New York high life, very highly recommended for any girl with big dreams of her own.

Every Bitter Thing
Hardy Jones
Black Lawrence Press
115 Center Ave, Aspinwall, PA 15215
9780982520413, $16.00, www.blacklawrence.com

Strength means a lot of things to different people, but it's all about how it's used. "Every Bitter Thing" follows young Wesley Royal who hates his father and only desires to get stronger to stand up for him. Feeling Tae Kwon Do may give him the strength he needs to stand up to his father. A story of abuse and what it drives people to, "Every Bitter Thing" is a touching read and has a strong message, enthusiastically recommended.

House of Angels
Freda Lightfoot
Magna
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9780750532457, $35.50, www.ulverscroftusa.com

What is pristine on the outside is never what it seems. "House of Angels" is a simple story of the early twentieth century and three daughters of an American aristocrat. Seeing their hands married off to whoever benefits their father the most, they rebel, and search for love or live in spite of the father. A thoughtful and riveting familial drama, "House of Angels" is presented in large print and is an excellent and highly recommended read that shouldn't be overlooked by general fiction readers.

Dylan's Cause
Pamela Swyers
c/o Ingram and Baker & Taylor
638 Barow Drive, Dacula, GA 30019
9780984311330, $24.99, www.swyerspublishing.com

Split between the light and the darkness, few knows which path will be taken. "Dylan's Cause" is the first entry into the Tryta Chronicles, following a story of the angelic Diana and her broken union with Dwyn, whose core of evil leads him to be banished from the heavenlies. Their child however, a union of both sides, has an uncertain future. An intriguing fantasy of Heaven and hell, "Dylan's Cause" is a fantasy read that will definitely prove hard to put down.

The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or "A Wad of Gum"
Albert F. Heisenfelt
The Imagination Workshop
imaginationworkshop@gmail.com
Kindle Edition, $4.70, www.amazon.com

In "The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or A Wad of Gum" author Albert F. Heisenfelt tells the unique and engaging story of two orphans, six year old Bobby and Leano, a boy and girl who we first find living in an inner city tenement. Two other characters are introduced into their lives as the children become separated and then reunited in the foster care of Jon and Sylvia, an compassionate and understanding couple who undertake to raise the children on their family farm with sensitivity, acceptance, and challenge. When Bobby and Leano are adults they assume responsibility for the farm when Jon and Sylvia retire. Along the way the two encounter Thomas E., a boy of mystery who seems to be writing a book and repeatedly pops in and out of the farm, having a kind of obscure relationship to the continuing lives of Bobby and Leano. Available only as a digital book, "The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or A Wad of Gum" is a metaphysical novel the documents its author as a skilled and imaginative storyteller, a writer who has a genuine flair for original poetry as well. "Rhyming words creep through this story, / Sneaking in like holiday elves, / Exposing, blaming, cajoling glory / As they unfold our core-held selves. "The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or A Wad of Gum" is strongly recommended as a thoughtful and thought provoking read. Also highly recommended by Albert F. Heisenfelt are the digital books "Thames (or) I Can Hear A Candle Burning" and "The Word Warrior: Boy Wonder-Writer".

Tales from the Yoga Studio
Rain Mitchell
Plume Book
c/o Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014-3658
9780452296916, $15.00, www.penguin.com

Yoga can bring more than a bit of exercise. "Tales from the Yoga Studio" tells the story of Lee, a Yoga teacher in the small town of Silver Lake. Many of her students come into her class, and they all have problems, in desperate need of spiritual renewal. Through their lessons, they will learn to overcome their problems, but Lee has many that a few spiritual exercise sessions may not be enough to solve. "Tales from the Yoga Studio" is a thoughtful and fun read for those looking for a bit of spirituality with their fiction.

Hide and Seek
Alison Tyler & Rachel Kramer Bussel, editor
Cleis Press
2246 Sixth St., Berkeley, CA 94710
9781573444194, $14.95, www.cleispress.com

Just watching is all some people need. "Hide and Seek: Erotic Tales of Voyeurs and Exhibitionists" is a collection of sensual short stories from assorted authors focusing on the need to see and be seen as a sexual vice. Be it being a private porn star or seeing what the neighbors are up to, to road adventures and many other situations where privacy is of the least concern, and the danger of being caught only adds to the fun "Hide and Seek" is a treasure trove for those with a little exhibition in them, highly recommended.

Waiting for No One
Beverley Brenna
Red Deer Press
195 Allstate Parkway, Markham, ON L3R 4T8
9780889954373, $12.95, www.fitzhenry.ca

Asperger's is more of a disorder than anyone truly knows. "Waiting for No One" tells the story of Taylor, a young woman with Asperger's syndrome who is coming into adulthood. A story of facing the world with a very different viewpoint and the challenges that are included with it all, "Waiting for No One" is a charming yet riveting read with a lot to think about, very highly recommended.

Haiti Noir
Edwidge Danticat
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 10009
9781617750137, $24.95, www.akashicbooks.com

Noir is a gritty mystery with an eye for the bad side of life. "Haiti Noir" is a collection of stories from assorted authors who present their tales of tracking down the truth and having some semblance of justice when everything in the world seems to be against it. With stories from a collection of some of Haiti's best authors, "Haiti Noir" is a riveting collection that should be hard to put down for any reader, with a proceed being donated to the Lambi Fund of Haiti, helping to work towards a better Haiti of tomorrow.


The Digital Publishing Shelf

Thames (or) I Can Hear A Candle Burning
Albert F. Heisenfelt
The Imagination Workshop
imaginationworkshop@gmail.com
Kindle Edition, $4.70, www.amazon.com

Author Albert F. Heisenfelt is a gifted author of metaphysically flavored fiction. "Thames (or) I Can Hear A Candle Burning" is the story of Thames, one of many Faces from the Forest at The Imagination Workshop. In brief synopsis, Thames is created from withered and worn body parts of abandoned wood. Thames is a hopeful icon, transcending his constructed constraints, transmitting eloquent solutions to those who would listen to those who would believe in themselves. From its birth on a wintry night in Bessie's garage, to a final resting place in a hidden cove atop pine covered hills, Thames molded the hearts and minds of its maker, an elderly neighbor, the soul of a park ranger, and united two families hundreds of years apart. Available as a digital book only, "Thames (or) I Can Hear A Candle Burning" is not just skilled storytelling, but an imaginative masterpiece that will offer its readers a completely satisfying entertainment that is inspired and inspiring from beginning to end. Also very highly recommended by Albert F. Heisenfelt are the digital books "The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or "A Wad of Gum" and " "The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or "A Wad of Gum".

The Word Warrior: Boy Wonder-Writer
Albert F. Heisenfelt
The Imagination Workshop
imaginationworkshop@gmail.com
Kindle Edition, $4.70, www.amazon.com

Trenton is a 'word-warrior' and offers four stories drawn from his life experiences in "The Word Warrior: Boy Wonder-Writer". The first one, 'Once Upon My Summer Camp Dream' is about Trenton as the age of nine years bonds with two other boys with whom he shares a cabin at summer camp, including the experience of a 'conference dream' to the Spirit Children of Storytell. The second story is about ten year old Tenton's having a hamster and the transition from childhood fantasy to life's realities when he has to deal with loss. The third story finds eleven year old Trenton having to deal with a bully. It's a help to have a father figure teach him how to deal effectively with fear. The fourth and concluding story is of Trenton, having now graduated from sixth grade, sharing an important and deeply personal secret with a girl. Taken all together, Trenton's four stories create a memorable and complex character whose 'word warrior' approach to sharing metaphysical insights and 'life lessons' with his readers are impressively entertaining and insightful with the intertwining themes of relationships, camaraderie loss, fear, and love. Author Albert F. Heisenfelt is a talented word smith able to combine imagination, philosophy, and the human condition into short stories like those that comprise "The Word Warrior: Boy Wonder-Writer", stories that enduringly impress the hearts and the minds of his readers. Also highly recommended by Albert F. Heisenfelt are the digital books "The Water Weavers: An Orphan's Tale or "A Wad of Gum" and "Thames (or) I Can Hear A Candle Burning.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Truth Dare
Laura Ross Greiner
Kregel Publications
733 Wealthy Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
9780825427381, $11.99, www.kregel.com

Mediocrity is nothing to settle for. "TruthDare" is an inspirational Christian book urging men and women to reach for higher in their lives and not to settle for a life lived in shadow and doubt. Using stories of individuals with unstoppable determination through their faith, these stories are designed to inspire people to remember God in their lives and use his power to live greater. "TruthDare" is a strong pick for many a Christian reader, enthusiastically recommended.

Money and the Prosperous Soul
Tipping the Scales of Favor and Blessing
Chosen
c/o Baker Publishing Group
11400 Hampshire Ave. S., Bloomington, MN 55438
9780800794965, $12.99, www.chosenbooks.com

Money has been called a great evil, but in truth it's all about its application. "Money and the Prosperous Soul: Tipping the Scales of Favor and Blessing" is a guide to money for Christians, and how to more excellently apply one's funds in a way that is morally and spiritually right. Written by Financial officer for a church, there is no shortage of wisdom drawn from experience. "Money and the Prosperous Soul" is an excellent read with plenty to ponder.

Good Manners in Minutes
Emilie Barnes
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North, Eugene, OR 97402-9173
9780736929929, $6.99, www.harvesthousepublishers.com

Good manners are key to making a good impression. "Good Manners in Minutes: Quick Tips for Every Occasion" is a small handbook designed to help readers know the common etiquette in countless situations. From talking with someone you don't know, courtesies in e-mail or phone conversations, and countless other occasions, Emilie Barnes equips readers well to deal with a wide array of situations. "Good Manners in Minutes" is a solid addition to any self help or Christian life collection.

Basic: Who is God?
Francis Chan
David C. Cook
c/o Cook Communications
4050 Lee Vance View, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9781434700858, $7.99, www.davidccook.com

We revere someone who we don't even truly know. "Basic: Who is God?" is a simple book aimed at being a simple and devoted Christian. Hoping to outline what church really is and what it is for, and how to help Christian life be something greater for all involved, Francis Chan makes for an excellent and inspiring quick read. "Basic" is an excellent addition to any Christian life collection, highly recommended.

These Thy Gifts
Mark G. Boyer
ACTA Publications
4848 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60640
9780879464356, $12.95, www.actapublications.com

A bit of prayer can put some inspiration into one's day. "These Thy Gifts: A Collection of Simple Meal Prayers" is a devotional book filled with simple prayers to inspire and remind people to remember the simple things in life and to remember God when they appreciate the meal that they worked so hard to acquire. With special prayers for special occasions, "These Thy Gifts" is a thoughtful and highly recommended pick for any Christian who wants to reintroduce the mealtime prayer into their lives.

Soundings in the Christian Mystical Tradition
Harvey D. Egan
Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500, Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
978081456136, $29.95, www.litpress.org

To submit to God is not to admit one's own insignificance. "Soundings in the Christian Mystical Tradition" is a Christian book with a place for humanism. Stating that believing God is the only answer and is the answer to everything is foolish, there is much wisdom involved within. With a philosophy that blends faith in God as an enhancement to understanding mankind and nature, "Soundings in the Christian Mystical Tradition" is a fine read and an excellent addition to Christian studies and mythology collections.

The Emergence of Christianity
Cynthia White
Fortress Press
PO Box 59304, Minneapolis, MN 55459-0304
9780800697471, $28.00, www.fortresspress.com

From being an outlawed cult to the religion of the largest empire in the world. "The Emergence of Christianity: Classical Traditions in Contemporary Perspective" looks into the early history of Christianity, a religion with a tumultuous first few years where it fought hard to simply even exist. With timelines, illustrations, biographies of major figures, and much more, this read proves to be an entertaining, fascinating, and scholarly read on the development of early Christianity. "The Emergence of Christianity" is an excellent addition to any Christian studies and history collection.

From Logos To Christos
Ellen M. Leonard & Kate Merriman, editor
Wilfrid Laurer University Press
Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3C5
9781554580651, $85.00, www.wlupress.wlu.ca

Many people are concerned with the grander picture of Christianity, but the man himself is enough for some people. "From Logos to Christos: Essays on Christology in Honour of Joanne McWilliam" is a collection of essays on this field of study, following the man and life of Jesus Christ as its many focus. Dedicated to Joanne McWilliam, noted for pioneering many things in academia and breaking many barriers for women, these writers provide their own opinion one of McWilliam's favored subjects. Ellen M. Leonard & Kate Merriman bring these thoughts together into an educational and scholarly tribute. "From Logos to Christos" is an excellent addition to any Christian studies or religion collection for community and college libraries.

The Biblical Roots of Mormonism
Eric Shuster & Charles Sale
Cedar Fort
2373 W. 700 S., Springville, UT 84663
9781599554068, $17.99, www.cedarfort.com

Mormonism is an oddity in Christianity, but the scripture may yet support their beliefs. "The Biblical Roots of Mormonism" investigates the origins of Mormonism and tries to connect it to the rest of Christianity by use of the Bible and scripture. Drawing on quotes and shared principles, "The Biblical Roots of Mormonism" is a thoughtful and scholarly read for those looking to understand the Church of Latter Day Saints better.

Mother of God, Similar to Fire
William Hart McNichols
Orbis Books
PO Box 302, Maryknoll, New York, NY 10545-0302
9781570758942, $25.00, www.orbisbooks.com

Almost as revered as Jesus himself, Mary has become a significant religious icon. "Mother of God, Similar to Fire" chooses fifty iconic images of Mary seek to grant new spirit and thought to the images of Mary and her many presentations all over the world. Brilliantly presented in full color by William Hart McNichols and spiritual writing from Mirabai Starr. A thoughtful and spiritual compilation, "Mother of God, Similar to Fire" is an excellent pick and is very highly recommended.

Avery Cardinal Dulles
Patrick W. Carey
Paulist Press
997 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah, NJ 07430
9780809105717, $49.95, www.paulistpress.com

The church always has needs for bright minds in their leadership. "Avery Cardinal Dulles, SJ, A model Theologian" looks at the life and times of this beloved Catholic thinker and how through his life he lived to a higher standard as a man and as a Catholic. Looking at his countless works among other notes, Patrick W. Carey presents a very comprehensive biography surrounding Dulles. A core addition to any biography collection focusing on the Catholic Church, "Avery Cardinal Dulles" is very highly recommended.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Choosing a Sustainable Future
Liz Walker
New Society Publishing
PO Box 189, Gabriola Island, British Columbia, V0R 1X0, Canada
9780865716759, $19.95, www.newsociety.com

To be able to live in a constant and sustainable nature with the environment is something more and more people are choosing. "Choosing a Sustainable Future: Ideas and Inspiration from Ithaca, NY" looks at Ithaca, New York and how it has embraced green design and ideal. Here they have embraced many ideas and given them a run, and Liz Walker uses Ithaca as a model to encourage other cities and communities across the country to better embrace these ideas. "Choosing a Sustainable Future" is a thoughtful and highly recommended read for anyone who wants to push more environmentally friendly thought.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

40 Days In the Desert
Paul F. Bauer
Langmarc Publishing
PO Box 90488, Austin, TX 78709-0488
9781880292372, $12.95, www.langmarc.com

Service personnel are at the front lines when things go wrong. "40 Days in the Desert: A Devotional Guide for Uniform Services Personnel" is filled with inspiration for service personnel, the fire fighters, paramedics, and police of the world whose action or lack thereof is the difference between life and death for so many people. With a profound nature, "40 Days in the Desert" will bring comfort and inspiration to these men and women struggling to make a difference.

Decision Making & Spiritual Discernment
Nancy L. Bieber
SkyLight Paths
PO Box 237, Sunset Farms Offices, RT. 4, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781594732898, $16.99, www.skylightpaths.com

Where does one's heart and life lie? "Decision Making & Spiritual Discernment: The Sacred Art of Finding Your Way" delves into the search for enlightenment and finding the right path for one's life. Nancy L. Beiber encourages readers to find their inspiration and path in their lives through the principles of being open to God's wisdom and love, truly seeing his intent, and following through with the path that both you and God want. Simple and responsive wisdom, "Decision Making & Spiritual Discernment" is a must for any religious and spiritual reader, highly recommended.


The Biography Shelf

In the Shadow of the Bear
Jim McGavran
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25, East Lansing, MI 58823-5202
9780870139819, $19.95, www.msupress.msu.edu

Memories of the past are still strong when revisited. "In the Shadow of the Bear" is a memoir from Jim McGavran about his childhood visits to the Leelanau Peninsula and how this region, unknown to most of the country but holding a special place in many Michiganite's hearts, still holds a special place for him, to the point of seeing his daughters wedding there. With a bit humor and wisdom, "In the Shadow of the Bear" is an excellent and finely recommended read, not to be missed.

The Black Hole of Public Administration
Ruth Hubbard & Gilles Paquet
University of Ottawa Press
542 King Edward Ottawa ON K1N 6N5
9780776607429, $32.95, www.press.uottawa.ca

The failure of public service is not only an American thing. "The Black Hole of Public Administration" is a call for better reform in Canadian politics from Ruth Hubbard and Giles Paquet as they discuss the many problems with Canada's systems and how they can be improved. Stating that many people who want to help change the system for the better join it only to have their spirit crushed, they offer many potential solutions for improving the status of Canada. With a healthy and thoughtful criticism, "The Black Hole of Public Administration" points out the sad and vicious cycle of government in today's world.

Confessions, Rants, and Exploits, of a Civil Servant
Ramona Swann
Elderberry Press
1393 Old Homestead Drive, Oakland, OR 97462
9781934956359, $17.95, www.elderberrypress.com

Tax money seems so rarely well spent. "Confessions, Rants, and Exploits, of a Civil Servant" is a memoir from Ramona Swann, who worked for the government for thirty years in various branches. Stated that there is corruption in the system as well as heroes, she provides a unique and thoughtful insight into the system that will help readers rethink the system as a whole. "Confessions, Rants, and Exploits, of a Civil Servant" is a thoughtful and highly recommended read.

One Page at a Time
Pat Carr
Texas Tech University Press
2903 4th Street Box 41037, Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
9780896727168, $25.95, www.ttupress.org

To write is to share life's experiences and, in many ways, to twist how they happened to you. "One Page at a Time: On a Writing Life" is a memoir from Pat Carr as she reflects on her unusual path to adulthood and how she kept her pen moving the entire way. Facing some of the worst events of the twentieth century, she speaks in a profound manner and hopes to inspire others to share their life and their goals. "One Page at a Time" is an excellent memoir with plenty to soak in and contemplate.


The Education Shelf

Building a Professional Learning Community at Work
Parry Graham & William M. Ferriter
Solution-Tree
555 North Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47404
9781934009598, $29.95, www.solution-tree.com

Education and learning is a job all of its own. "Building a Professional Learning Community at Work: A Guide to the First Year" discusses how to form a professional learning community and keep it afloat through the times. Professional learning communities success depends on implementation, and Perry Graham & William M. Ferriter explain the concept well and give great advice in understanding it and taking it to the next level. "Building a Professional Learning Community" is a must for any PLC trying to become an early success.

What the L?
Kelsey May, Samantha Roberts, & Elizabeth Shelton
Carolina Academic Press
700 Kent Street, Durham, NC 27701
9781594608605, $20.00

Law school is a special breed of school that's hard to meet. "What the L?: 25 Things We Wish We'd Known Before Going to Law School" is an advice guide for future lawyers and other users of the law for a career who have to step into the unique experience of law school. Drawn from first hand perspectives and experience, these three future lawyers explain it all, all from breaking into the legal fraternity to trying to land that first job. "What the L?" is a fine gift to any aspiring lawyer.

Vocabulary Games for the Classroom
Lindsay Carleton & Robert J. Marzano
Marzano Research
555 North Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47404
9780982259269, $34.95, www.marzanosearch.com

Good vocabulary skills are an invaluable skill for coming off well in today's world. "Vocabulary Games for the Classroom" is a guide for educators and teachers on how to emphasize the importance of Vocabulary in today's world through classroom games and other activities that will teach students the material while masking it under fun. Not just for language arts, these are excellent ways to teach math and science terms as well. For educators looking for ways to captivate their students further, "Vocabulary Games" is a useful and very highly recommended resource.

Learning for Keeps
Rhoda Koenig
ASCD
1703 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
9781416610854, $24.95, www.ascd.org

How do you inspire a life-long love of learning? "Learning for Keeps: Teaching the Strategies Essential for Creating Independent Learners" is an educational guide for teachers in the angles they need to teach in for their students how to grasp the curriculum and excel with it in a way that they understand both the why and how. With the goal of encouraging independent education being sought out of the students own interest, "Learning for Keeps" is a thoughtful pick and will prove an excellent and highly valuable resource.

Twice-Exceptional Gifted Children
Beverly A. Trail
Prufrock Press
PO Box 8813, Waco, TX 76714-8813
9781593634896, $24.95, www.prufrock.com

Talent is something to be nurtured, and some talents need assistance to get the help they need. "Twice-Exceptional Gifted Children: Understanding, Teaching and Counseling Gifted Students" is a guide for educators and teachers who want to help their gifted and talented students keep performing at this high level, particularly those who also face disabilities, making their talents all the more significant. "Twice-Exceptional Gifted Children" is a thoughtful and scholarly volume that should be considered by any advanced classes teacher.

Doing Literary Criticism
Tim Gillespie
Stenhouse Publishers
PO Box 11020, Portland, ME 04104-7020
9781571108425, $35.00, www.stenhouse.com

To analyze and criticize a text is to understand it. "Doing Literary Criticism: Helping Students Engage with Challenging Texts" is a guide for teachers who want to help their students use the art of literary criticism to gain a greater understanding of the subject matter they are trying to teach. Tim Gillespie breaks down the many aspects of criticism and what each genre of book requires a different approach in teaching understanding. "Doing Literary Criticism" is a highly useful and excellent resource for any English or language arts teacher.

A Process Approach to General Education Reform
Susan Gao-Phillips and Robert W. Barnett
Atwood Publishing
PO Box 3185, Madison, WI 53704-0185
9781891859816, $25.95, www.atwoodpublishing.com

Education has fallen behind in America, and is in dire need of change. "A Process Approach to General Education Reform: Transforming Institutional Culture in Higher Education" discusses the problems facing secondary and higher education in America and how it fails to live to its true potential. Stating that the process needs revising instead of the content, Susan Gao-Phillips and Robert W. Barnett provide a scholarly and well thought out approach to their idea of what higher learning should be. "A Process Approach to General Education Reform" is a core addition to any educational studies collection, especially those with a focus on higher learning.

Foundations for Teaching Excellence
Carollee Howes & Robert C. Pianta
Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
PO Box 10624, Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
9781598571226, $34.95, www.brookespublishing.com

The early years lay the foundation for years of education to come. "Foundations for Teaching Excellence: Connecting Early Childhood Quality Rating, Professional Development, and Competency Systems in States" is for educators who want to tailor their lessons to the abilities of their students and how to meet their needs to make them come out of their education as educated as possible. From assessment, structuring early education, finances, motivating other staff, and more, "Foundations for Teaching Excellence" is an important read for any educator who believes starting early is vital to educational success.


The Political Science Shelf

The Anti-American Manifesto
Ted Rall
Seven Stories Press
140 Watts Street, New York, NY 10013
9781583229330, $15.95, www.sevenstoriespress.com

Through collapse, you can rebuild what fell into something greater. "The Anti-American Manifesto" is a call from Ted Rall to take the broken system and replace with something more modern and that works better for all Americans. Stating that the system is collapsing due to its corruption and self-serving nature, Rall comes with many intriguing ideas, and makes "The Anti-American Manifesto" a fascinating political read.


The Self-Help Shelf

The Caregiver's Tao Te Ching
William and Nancy Martin
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way, Novato, CA 94949
9781577318880, $14.00, www.newworldlibrary.com

Care is not just for others, but it is for yourself as well. "The Caregiver's Tao Te Ching: Compassionate Caring for Your Loved Ones and Yourself" is a spiritual guide for readers who want to give better care for their loved ones, or if their career is one of caregiving. With a simple wisdom and drawing from the famous Chinese text Tao Te Ching, William and Nancy Martin encourage readers to remember to care for themselves when caring for others, that selflessness to the point of draining oneself is foolish, and that this simple wisdom will allow them to keep giving the best care they can while retaining their own health. "The Caregiver's Tao Te Ching" is a thoughtful and solidly recommended read, not to be missed by the caregivers of life.

Mudras
Emily Fuller Williams
Parenting Press
PO Box 75267, Seattle, WA 98175-0267
9780943990408, $14.95, www.parentingpress.com

A little focus and exercise can change the pace of your day. "Mudras: Ancient Gestures to Ease Modern Stress" looks into the practice of Mudras, simple exercise hand gestures that Emily Fuller Williams believes will help many take better control of their lives and push themselves further. These exercises can be done anywhere, including an office, making them perfect for those in a stressful work situation. "Mudras" is an excellent and very highly recommended pick for anyone with lots of stress and no outlet.

The Rules of Life
Richard Templar
FT Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
1330 Avenue of the Americans, 35th floor, New York, NY 10019
9780132485562, $18.95, www.ftpress.com

By understanding the rules, it's much easier to play the game. "The Rules of Life: A Personal Code for Living a Better, Happier, More Successful Life" is an motivational guide from Richard Templar, as he explains how to live life with your head held high, understanding how to live and work with the many different personalities around you. With plenty of common sense and simple wisdom, "The Rules of Life" will motivate and inspire many a reader.

The Blame Game
Neil E. Farber
Bascom Hill Publishing Group
212 N 3rd Avenue, Suite 290, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781935098355, $15.95, www.bascomhillpublishing.com

It's easy to blame others. It's hard to blame others well. "The Blame Game: The Complete Guide to Blaming: How to Play and How to Quit" discusses the power of blame and how to use it accurately and well, and realize it's not always the worst thing in the world. Empowering readers through a shift of responsibility, "The Blame Game" has a unique approach to finding peace and encouragement, and it works, highly recommended.


The World History Shelf

Holy War in China
Hodong Kim
Stanford University Press
1450 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
9780804773645, $24.95, www.sup.org

Islam spread far and wide, even to Asia. "Holy War in China: The Muslim Rebellion and State in Chinese Central Asia, 1864-1877" discusses the Uyghurs, Islamic Chinese. In recent years, they have become a source of debate in China and international news. Looking back in history, Hodong Kim hopes to bring light to these people and how this sect has not been immune to trouble in the past. A fascinating look at the lesser known presence of Islam in China, "Holy War in China" is an excellent addition to any religious studies or world history collection.

Rome and Constantinople
Raymond Van Dam
Baylor University Press
One Bear Place, #97363, Waco, TX 76798-7363
9781602582019, $19.95, www.baylorpress.com

Rome was no normal empire, growing large beyond the power of one city to control. "Rome and Constantinople: Rewriting Roman History During Late Antiquity" tries to look into the true life of the people of the empire and how this dual empire worked, and why one continued on for centuries as the western Empire fell into disarray. These two cities are beacons of culture in the modern day, and Raymond Van Dam provides an insightful and solidly recommended read that shouldn't be missed.

Celebrate People's History
Josh MacPhee, editor
Feminist Press
365 Fifth Avenue, Suite 5406, New York, NY 10016
9781558616776, $24.95, www.feministpress.org

The twentieth century has been a great upheaval of the social struggle. "Celebrate People's History: The Poster Book of Resistance and Revolution" is a collection of writings and artwork that celebrate the events though out history that have celebrated racial, feminist, sexual, and movements of the working class to remind the world that they exist and are not to be tread upon. With a powerful message and plenty of unique art, "Celebrate People's History" is a fine collection and would do well in any history or art collection.

The Country of the Moors
Edward Rae
Garnet
c/o International Publishing Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9781859642306, $39.95, www.garnetpublishing.co.uk

An outsider looking in offers a good deal of insight. "The Country of the Moors: A Journey From Tripoli in Barbaray to the City of Kairwan" is the work of Edward Rae who in the later nineteenth century traveled through northern Africa and learned much about the Moors, the dominant culture of Islam throughout the region, even visiting holy cities previously forbidden to non-Muslims. A fascinating read of historical travel with plenty to ponder, "The Country of the Moors" is a choice pick and a solid addition to any history collection.

History vs. Apologetics
David Cymet
Lexington Books
c/o Rowman & Littlefield
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200, Lanham, MD 20706
9780739132937, $90.00, www.lexingtonbooks.com

As Hitler rose to power and began some of the worst atrocities in history, the Catholic Church may have did more than sit and watch. "History Vs. Apologetics: The Holocaust, the Third Reich, and the Catholic Church" looks at the Catholic Church's involvement throughout The Third Reich's power in Nazi Germany and their persecution of the Jews. Critical and condemning, author David Cymet states that the Catholic Church refused to condemn the atrocity and went as far as to help those who orchestrated the tragedy to escape when the Reich started to fall. "History Vs. Apologetics" is a thoughtful and fascinating analysis of the alliance of Nazi Germany and the Catholic church, making for an enthusiastically recommended read and addition to community and college religion and history collections.


The Poetry Shelf

Over Autumn Rooftops
Hai Zi
Host Publications
277 Broadway, Suite 210, New York, NY 10007
9780924047756, $35.00, www.hostpublications.com

The nation of China has had a tumultuous twentieth century. "Over Autumn Rooftops" looks at the work of Hai Zi, who has earned acclaim outside of his home country based on his focus on the heartland of China that is away from the massively packed cities of Beijing and Shanghai. His poetry will relate to any reader in the world, making "Over Autumn Rooftops" a treasure of international poetry. "Autumn": deep in autumn, in the home of the god hawks gather/in the native place of the gods hawks are speaking/deep in autumn, the king writes poetry/in the world of deep autumn/what should be gained is not yet gained/what should be lost was long ago lost.

The Scare in the Crow
Tammy Armstrong
Goose Lane
330-500 Beaverbrook Court, Fredericton NB Canada E3B 5X4
9780864926272, $17.95, www.gooselane.com

With a unique approach and blend of concepts, "The Scare in the Crow" is an anthology of poetry from Tammy Armstrong as she pokes the ideas of the dark woods and rural America with her mind and comes to some intriguing ideas and conclusions. Fun and thought provoking, "The Scare in the Crow" is quite the read and is very highly recommended. "Living Clock": In his horologium florae/Linnaeus lunched by goatsbeard, as scarlet pimpernel closed//and hawkbit yellowed the hour with forked bristle/while weeds and vulneraries worked a prediction/with time's vertebrae;/Linnaeu's star of Bethlehem motioned/from a pre-determined tilt,/his flowering tobacco furled//voluted leaves/for dark, admitting the evening/into ground slump.//The sow-thistle's thrive,/the botanical cog and wheel--/time through mineral seep and bloom.

Otherwise Elsewhere
David Rivard
Graywolf Press
230 Third Avenue N, Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781555975739, $15.00, www.graywolfpress.org

Facing the world is a daunting task without the aid of those who matter to you, and for some, without Christ. "Otherwise Elsewhere" is a collection of poetry from David Rivard with a simple message about the comforts of life that lie all around us. With a unique voice and plenty of powerful messages, "Otherwise Elsewhere" is a fine pick for poetry collections. "Whose Country, Mine or Theirs?: It's a problem as small/as a birch leaf blown against a window screen--/this clinging bit of green/inside of which at the end of day/you can see a forest crossroad & a dim figure halfway/between a so-called Zion & a wired so-called Babylon,/tho whether he is being carried away or is returning from captivity/that is unclear/in those smoking piney-woods/he appears to be/waiting to be fed--after which the leaf will fall.

English Fragments
Martin Corless-Smith
Fence Books
1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222
9781934200384, $18.95, www.fenceportal.org

Throughout time, pieces of history and life are scattered for us to put back together. "English Fragments: A Brief History of the Soul" is a collection of poetry from Martin Corless-Smith as he reflects on the meetings of opposites in our world and facing history in the bigger picture. Thoughtful and thought provoking verse, "English Fragments" is a fine read and solidly recommended. "My Picture Left": I now think language deaf/Its sentence blind unconscious read/So much want these hundred hairs/My face his eyes her ears unsaid.


The Music Shelf

Gigging
Patricia Shih
Allworth Press
10 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010
9781581152753, $19.95, www.allworth.com

It's a long way to the top to be successful in music. "Gigging: A Practical Guide for Musicians" is a guide for the would be musician who doesn't know where to get started in trying to get paid work for their talents. With advice on finding gigs, booking gigs, traveling hazards for musicians, finding fellow band mates, networking, unions, and more, "Gigging" is an excellent resource for the musician who has the talent but not the idea how to start.

The Gilded Stage
Daniel Snowman
Overlook Press
14 Wooster Street, New York, NY 10012
9781590203958, $60.00, www.atlantic-books.co.uk

Opera has been the chosen venue of theatre of many for years. "The Gilded Stage: A Social History of Opera" traces opera's development as an art form as a parallel to the history of the western world. With the rise of the Renaissance in Europe, many took to Opera to try new things and new ideas, and it became a cultured favorite. It spread through the world, and it becoming the work of the world in America, a clash of cultures into something new, as America often does. A thoughtful history of drama and development, author Daniel Snowman traces this history and makes it a riveting and intriguing read that should prove hard to put down. "The Gilded Stage" is a vital addition to any historical or theatre history collection, very highly recommended.

Music and Media
Michael Frishkopf
The American University of Cairo Press
420 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10018
International Publishing Marketing (distributor/publicity)
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9789774162930, $29.95, www.aucpress.com

If there is any thing in the Arabic world that is misunderstood most, it is the culture. "Music and Media in the Arab World" discusses these aspects of popular culture which is commonly a complete unknown to the western world. But the Middle East has followed suit with the rest of the world and its embrace of technology and the internet as a way of sharing culture and there has been a major shift in modern Arab society. This media has had a profound impact on Arab society, and Michael Frishkopf puts together a very eye-opening read that shouldn't be missed for those looking to gain a better understanding of the Middle East and culture. "Music and Media in the Arab World" is a must for any social issues or anthropology community library collection.


The Business Shelf

Productive Relationships
Jan Yager
Hannacroix Creek Books
1127 High Ridge Road, #110, Stamford, CT 06905
9781889262635, $22.95, www.hannacroixbooks.com

A friendly workplace is a productive workplace. "Productive Relationships: 57 Strategies for Building Stronger Business Connections" is a guide for leaders to deal with the challenges of business and how to get the most out partnerships in business and make the most out of good relationships throughout the business world in a person to person manner. With tips on dealing with the worst of people int he workplace, improving relationships on your end, and making better networking, "Productive Relationships" is a useful and empowering read, very highly recommended.

Sole Proprietorship
Daniel Sitarz
Nova
1103 W. College St., Carbondale, IL 62901
National Book Network (distributor)
4501 Forbes Blvd., Lanham, MD 20706
9781892949592, $29.95, www.novapublishing.com

Absolute power over one's business comes with many disadvantages. "Sole Proprietorship: Small Business Start-Up Kit" is a guide to creating a business run by you and only you. This method of running a business comes with the benefit of complete control, but the downfall is also complete responsibility. With a complete resource explaining the many aspects of the business, and how to get started and dealing with all of the legal issues that come with it, "Sole Proprietorship" is an excellent business and legal resource for any would be lone entrepreneur.

How to Write a Marketing Plan
John Westwood
Kogan Page
525 South 4th Street, #241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9780749461713, $14.95, www.koganpage.com

Everything can be done better with a well thought out plan. "How to Write a Marketing Plan" is a guide to make a thorough marketing plan for one's business that can function with flexibility and success for the product's future. From auditing the product's worth, setting realistic goals, putting a price tag on the campaign, and pushing it into plan, John Westwood, marketing veteran, shares much of his experience. "How to Write a Marketing Plan" is a strong resource which should be considered to be at hand for any business person. Also from Kogan Page, "Develop Your Marketing Skills" (9780749462420, $14.95), a guide for enhancing one's skill with this very important avenue of business and getting the product sold.


The Military Shelf

African Wars
William G. Thom
University of Calgary Press
2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AL Canada, T2N 1N4
9781552382738, $34.95, www.uofcpress.com

Africa has not been a stable place as a whole. "African Wars: A Defense Intelligence Perspective" is a scholarly analysis the United States and its place in the constant conflicts that lie in sub-Saharan Africa which have been the constant site of civil war and genocide. Author William G. Thom brings his own experience with these nations with a personal touch. "African Wars" is a must for those seeking to understand Africa's endless conflicts, their roots, and where they are going.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Bitter Legacy
H. Terrell Griffin
Oceanview Publishing
2817 West End Avenue, Suite 126-274, Nashville, TN 37203
9781933515960, $25.95, www.oceanviewpub.com

Murder is a good way to quickly sour anything."Bitter Legacy" follows Matt Royal as his restful vacation ends with a sniper murder of one of his best friends. Believing himself to be next in the scope, he has to work fast to find those responsible as he gets seeped deeper and deeper in intrigue. A nonstop thriller of action, adventure, romance, and much more, "Bitter Legacy" will be a hard volume to put down.

First of State
Robert Greer
North Atlantic Books
PO Box 12327, Berkeley, CA 94712
9781556439155, $24.95, www.northatlanticbooks.com

With the world crumbling around him, CJ's Floyd's own sanity may rely on finding the truth. "First of State" follows Vietnam veteran CJ Floyd as his world crumbles as he returns from the battlefield and finds his life in shambles. His only hope for a bit of reserve is to find out whose responsible for a murder he stumbles upon and find some justice in a dark world. A riveting thriller that will be hard to put down, "First of State" is an excellent read and very highly recommended.


The Literary Shelf

Faulkner and His Critics
John N. Duvall
The John Hopkins University press
2715 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218
9780801896996, $30.00, www.press.jhu.edu

No one is without their critics, literary greats like Faulkner included. "Faulkner and His Critics" draws from Modern Fiction Studies from the time where the paper was contemporary with Faulkners work. These writings discuss Faulkner's work and their reflection of America as a whole, the south, and more. Seventy three essays in total, this compilation will do well in bringing much new light onto Faulkner's work. "Faulkner and His Critics" is a fine pick, and a vital addition to any literary studies collection.

Outlaw
Miguel Pinero
Arte Publico Press
University of Houston, 452 Cullen Performance Hall, Houston, TX 77204-2004
9781558856066, $19.95, www.artepublicopress.com

Faced with a tough situation, Miguel Pinero both embraced and fought against the culture that surrounded him. "Outlaw: The Collected Works of Miguel Pinero" tells the story and shares the work of Miguel Pinero, who grew up in a barrio in New York City and climbed out of it a street wise poet, writer, and playwright who has worked on famous television shows and is respected for his work, rising above his criminal gang past. A collection of his various printed works including some previously unpublished work, "Outlaw" is a fascinating read and excellent addition to any literary studies collection.


The Cookbook Shelf

America Grills!
Char-Broil
Creative Homeowner
24 Park Way, Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
9781580115025, $24.95, www.creativehomeowner.com

The cookout, the barbeque, America has so many words for it because it loves it so. "America Grills!: 222 Flavorful Recipes that Will Fire Up Your Appetite" is a jam packed collection of recipes with all sorts of base ingredients from meats to vegetables to more and how to use the grill as a powerful and diverse cooking tool to meet the nuances of any taste bud. From countless original variations on the simple hamburger, to taking lamb and pork to the next level, "America Grills!" should be on hand for anyone who can't get enough of barbeque season.

Best of the Best from the Plains Cookbook
Gwen McKee & Barbara Moseley
Quail Ridge Press
PO Box 123, Brandon, MS 39043
9781934193532, $16.95, www.quailridge.com

The plains is a simple land, and its food is simple and delicious. "Best of the Best from the Plains Cookbook" is a guide to the best recipes from the great plains states, offering the recipes in a quick and easy presentation that tells you what you need to know about the food to make it and see the results for yourself. With a small collection of photos of the plains region, "Best of the Best from the Plains" is for those who like homestyle cooking complete with the simple and delicious touch.

Cook & Enjoy
S. J. A. De Villiers
Human & Rousseau
c/o International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9780798149198, $35.95, www.humanrousseau.com

Good food never goes out of style. "Cook & Enjoy" is a collection of over 700 South African recipes from S. J. A. De Villiers focusing on the many types of food that can be relished throughout the country and with trips on preserving them and more. Originally published in the Afrikaans language in 1951, it has sold over a million copies and is now updated to modern cookbook standards. With dishes for any meat or vegetable, "Cook & Enjoy" is a solid tome to have on hand for any creative chef.

The Best of Clean Eating
Clean Eating Magazine
Robert Kennedy Publishing
400 Matheson Blvd. West, Mississauga, ON L5R 3M1 Canada
9781552100851, $22.95, www.rkpubs.com

Healthy is not the antithesis of good taste. "The Best of Clean Eating: Improving Your Life One Meal at a Time" is a collection of the best recipes from clean living magazine focusing on creating simple and healthy meals using the best ingredients. With dishes like Caponata sandwiches, lemon artichoke chicken, Spanish pork, and much more. With full color photos and easy instruction, "The Best of Clean Eating" is a choice pick for any chef.

Vij's At Home
Meeru Dhalwala & Vikram Vij
Douglas & McIntyre
720 Bathurst Street, Suite 500, Toronto, ON Canada 2R4
9781553655725, $40.00, www.douglas-mcintyre.com

A flavor from another land can be the same time exotic as it is soothing. "Vij's At Home: Relax, Honey: The Warmth & Ease of Indian Cooking" is a guide from some of America's most famous restauranteurs on their specific and beloved craft, authentic Indian cuisine. With a wide assortment of dishes to satisfy any pallette, be it sweet or spicy, savory or sweet, these recipes will prove easy to prepare and provide for excellent meals. For those who want to try dishes such as Eggplant and Paneer Pate, a great array of curries, and Indian takes on grilled beef tenderloins, "Vij's at Home" is the cookbook for them.

The Natural Canning Resource Book
Lisa Rayner
Lifeweaver
PO Box 22325, Flagstaff, AZ 86002
9780980060829, $25.00

Canning is a time tested way to get some major life out of one's food. "The Natural Canning Resource Book" is a guide to canning one's food. Lisa Rayner provides a complete and comprehensive guide, outlining the various techniques one can use through jars and their pros and cons. From canning without sugary preservatives to making one's own vinegar and much more, "The Natural Canning Resource" is a fine resource for any do-it-yourself food preserver.

The Buster Holmes Restaurant Cookbook
Buster Holmes
Pelican
100 Burmaster Street, Gretna, LA 70053
9781589808492, $16.95, www.pelicanpub.com

The best food comes from heart and dedication. "The Buster Holmes Restaurant Cookbook: New Orleans Handmade Cookin'" is a collection of recipes from the unique, simple to the point cooking of Buster Holmes who has earned fame in his French Quarter restaurant for over fifty years. With a history of his style and cooking, the king of red beans and rice gives not just a Louisiana flavor but plenty more on top of that. "The Buster Holmes Restaurant Cookbook" is a strongly recommended addition to any cookbook shelf.

A Feast For All Seasons
Andrew George Jr. & Robert Gairns
Arsenal Pulp Press
#101-211 East Georgia St., Vancouver, BC Canada, V6A 1Z6
9781551523682, $21.95, www.arsenalpulp.com

Traditional American cuisine is not that of the Europeans, but of the people who claimed this land before them. "A Feast for All Seasons: Traditional Native People's Cuisine" is a cook's guide to the foods of the native people of the Americas. These dishes earned acclaim at the Vancouver Olympics when Andrew George, a member of the Wet'suwet'en Nation of Canada, offered these dishes to the millions of fans. One hundred and twenty very different and authentic recipes, "A Feast for All Seasons" is a fine collection and is very highly recommended for those looking for an original series of dishes to experiment with.

Kentucky Cooks
Linda Allison-Lewis
The University Press of Kentucky
663 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY 40508-4008
9780813125374, $24.95, www.kentuckypress.com

There's more to Kentucky's cuisine than fried chicken. "Kentucky Cooks: Favorite Recipes from Kentucky Living" draws on one of Kentucky's favored magazines and presents many Kentucky-fashioned recipes for anyone in the country to embrace and enjoy. From year round salsa, casseroles, soups, salads, and even a recipe or two for fried chicken, "Kentucky Cooks" is a fine cookbook for those who want to better embrace the finer aspects of the American south and cooking.

Bottega
Michael Chiarello
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
9780811875394, $40.00, www.chroniclebooks.com

A little wine can go a long way in making something exquisite. "Michael Chiarello's Bottega: Bold Italian Flavors from the Heart of California's Wine Country" is a collection of recipes from Michael Chiarello, presenting his blend on Italian cuisine taking from the best of California and his own ideas. Presenting his principles for a good meal as well as plenty of easy instructions and full color photos, dishes that are presented range from Chicken Wings Agrodolce, Calabrian Wedding Soup, Grilled Swordfish, and much more. He also presents the history that made his Bottega restaurant so famous. "Michael Chiarello's Bottega" is a fine read with a lot to inspire the everyday chef to make something truly magnificent for their next meal.


The Native American Shelf

Southern Paiute
William Logan Hebner
Utah State University Press
7800 Old Main Hill, Logan, Utah 84322
9780874217544,$34.95, www.usupress.org

Blamed for mass murder, the Paiute Native Americans faced a special brand of challenge from the oppression of America's regretful treatment of its Native people. "Southern Paiute: A Portrait" analyzes the people of this nation and their long history as they reflect on their lives of growing up as members of this tribe and they recall what has been told to them through oral histories, their perspectives on how they are perceived, and much more. A fascinating study of modern anthropology, "Southern Paiute" is quite the read, and with its large black and white photography, it proves to be an excellent choice of coffee table book.

When the Other is Me
Emma LaRocque
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College, Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R3T 2M5
9780887557033, $27.95, www.umanitoba.ca/uofmpress

Becoming alien in your own land is truly a unique status to the Native American Indians in the United States and Canada. "When the Other is Me: Native Resistance Discourse: 1850-1990" is a literary analysis of Native writing in response to the racist writing against the native people throughout history. These writings analyze the development of popular culture and the light Native Americans are shown in, as well as the changing Native culture throughout Canadian history. A fascinating and scholarly analysis, "When the Other is Me" is an excellent addition to any Native American studies collection.


The Photography Shelf

The Art of Photography
Bruce Barnbaum
Rockynook
26 West Mission Street Ste 3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
9781933952680, $44.95, www.rockynook.com

Photography can be more than a snapshot of reality, it can be an art form all its own. "The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression" is a guide for those who want to use their photography for more than a snapshot, but instead as an approach to personal expression. Bruce Barnbaum gives a lesson in artistic photography, in how to approach it to make truly wonderful looking images. From wise use of color or lack there of, approaches to realism, surrealism, and the absurd, Barnbaum uses both black and white and color photography throughout to provide a very useful introductory to art photography. "The Art of Photography" is a must for those who want to make their photography something far more.

Welcome to Oz 2.0
Vincent Versace
New Riders
1249 Eighth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
9780321714763, $49.99, www.newriders.com

The mundane can seem extraordinary with the right approach. "Welcome to Oz 2.0: A Cinematic Approach to Digital Still Photography with Photoshop" is a guide to renovating one's images and taking them from a simple photograph into a work of art. The use of photoshop is more than altering the picture from what it was, as it can enhance and make a few shots with a camera into something truly wonderful. Discussing bokeh, a concept on creating realistic and sharp looking images, "Welcome to Oz 2.0" is a fine blend of photography and Photoshop manual.

Olives & Lemons
Shirley Kay & Falak Shawwa
Rimal Publications
c/o International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9789963610358, $30.95

The island of Cyprus has a unique place in Mediterranean history. "Olives & Lemons: Traces of Cyprus Past" is a part memoir and part tribute to the Island of Cyrpus by Shirley Kay. Discussing the long history of the island, Kay tells how she came to know it so well through her diplomat husband and came to love the island as a home. With plenty of photography throughout, Kay offers a heartfelt look at the island and everything connected to it, and makes "Olives & Lemons" a very solid and recommended read, not to be missed.

Campbell River
Ian Douglas
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219, Madeira Park, BC V0N 2H0
9781550175011, $34.95, www.harbourpublishing.com

Along the canals that connect the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, a town has prospered in its own unique way. "Campbell River: Gateway to the Inside Passage" examines the town of Campbell River and its surrounding environs and how it has become quite the Canadian town. Looking at back at its roots of thousands of years ago with the native peoples of the Americas, and through the establishment of trade on the lakes, many people have passed through. With plenty of full color photographs and lots of history, "Campbell River" serves as an artistic way to look at the town and its community, making for an excellent coffee table book.

The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns of the Pacific Northwest
Joan Tapper
Thames & Hudson
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
9780500515341, $40.00, www.thamesandhudson.usa

There's a natural beauty that lies in the Pacific northwest, and the style of building there has only accentuated it. "The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns of the Pacific Northwest" is a combination photography and history book focusing on the small towns and villages that line the Pacific coast in both the United States and Canada. Joan Tapper presents a volume filled with gorgeous full color photographs, with plenty of quaint stories about how these towns and villages came to be. For those with a love of small towns, "The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns of the Pacific Northwest" is an ideal coffee table book selection.


The Crafts Shelf

Friendship Strips & Scraps
Edyta Sitar
Landauer Publishing
3100 101st St. Ste A, Urbandale, IA 50322
9781935726012, $27.95, www.landauercop.com

A quilt is an amalgamation of may great ideas. "Friendship Strips & Scraps: 18 Beautiful Quilting Projects, Strips & Scraps Exchange Ideas, Easy, Step-by-Step Strip Panels Technique" is an inspiration for lovers of quilters who are looking for new ideas and concepts to apply to their favorite pastimes. Presented in full color an detailing 18 quilt projects with plenty of advice, this is a must have pick for anyone who wants to expand their quilting world. "Friendship Strips & Scraps" is a fine addition to any community library crafts collection. Also recommended for craft-enthusiasts from Landauer Publishing is "Welcome Home" by Kaffe Fassett (9780982558683, $27.95) focusing on the ideas of design and style in many avenues of creation.

Polymer Clay
Angela Mabray & Kim Otterbein
Creative Publishing International
400 First Avenue North, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781589234703, $24.99, www.creativepub.com

A new technique can open artistic horizons. "Polymer Clay: Look, Learn, & Create" is a guide to using this clay as a tool in one's many crafts and using it well. Bracelets, decorations, and much more, Polymer clay is an easy to use and versatile substance. From baking and shaping the clay to expressing your creativity and making it durable and fit your vision, "Polymer Clay: Look, Learn, & Create" is a strong choice for anyone looking for a new avenue to educate themselves in a new creative medium.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

50 Ticks to Teach Your Dog
Sophie Collins
TFH publications
Third and Union Avenues, Neptune City, NJ 07753
9780793806454, $13.95, www.tfh.com

Dogs are smart and cunning creatures, not to be underestimated. "50 Tricks to Teach Your Dog" is a guide to teaching your old dog a whole slew of new tricks to the entertainment of yourself as well as your dog. From the most basic of tricks like standing up, to pushing your dog's mind, "50 Tricks to Teach Your Dog" is a fine guide and very highly recommended for those just getting into teaching and training their favorite furry friend.


The American History Shelf

Interstate 95
Dianne Perrier
University Press of Florida
15 Northwest 15th Street, Gainesville, FL 32611-2079
9780813034805, $24.95, www.upf.com

All down the east coast, Interstate 95 is one of the most famous tracks of road in America. "Interstate 95: The Road to Sun and Sand" traces the history of the road, and how it became an icon of many Northerners as the road they take for getting away from the grind of their daily lives. Many have made the road itself the attraction with much to see and do all along the way. "Interstate 95" is a fascinating read of this road, providing a grand dose of history.


The Islamic Studies Shelf

Political Islam Observed
Frederic Volpi
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street, New York, NY 10023
9780231701785, $34.50, www.cup.columbia.edu

Islam remains a hot issue in today's world. "Political Islam Observed" discusses politics and Islam and modern social sciences to approach a picture of the faith on the world stage. Chapters discuss Islam and how it has been demonized as well as revered throughout the world. From Islam's status in multiculturalism, global issues, and issues of secularization, author Frederic Volpi presents a high fascinating and scholarly read, making "Political Islam Observed" a must for anyone discussing and seeking to understand Islamic politics around the world.


The Art Shelf

The Master's Hand
Dawn C. Pheysey & Richard Neitzel Holzapfel
Deseret Book
Brigham Young University Museum of Art
North Campus Drive, Provo, UT 84602
9781606419267, $32.99, www.deseretbook.com

There are artists who do more than simply produce an image. "The Master's Hand: The Art of Carl Heinrich Bloch" looks at the religious works of Bloch, who is especially well known the Church of Latter Day Saints. A nineteenth century artist, Bloch's work is inspired by the classics, and is said to capture the entire essence of Christ and many other Biblical scenario he depicts. Discussing as well as displaying his work in full color, "The Master's Hand" is an excellent addition to any Christian art studies collection, or Art studies collections in general.

Contemporary Art on the Northwest Coast
Karen & Ralph Norris
Schiffer
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764336416, $59.99

Contemporary techniques, native styles. "Contemporary Art on the Northwest Coast: Salish Nuu-Chah-Nulth Makah" is a collection of art that reflects on the Northwestern native American culture as many modern artists look to embrace this classical style in homages and tradition. Packed cover to cover with full color photographs and reproductions, Karen & Ralph Norris provide commentary on the work and provide insight on their creation. The photographs show both the art, and in some cases its production, and in other, its use, such as a painted canoe being honored by being put out on the lake. "Contemporary Art on the Northwest Coast" is a fine coffee table book for those who enjoy Native American Northwestern styled artistic work, as well as a fine addition to any art collection.


The Gaming Shelf

The Evolution of Fantasy Role-Playing Games
Michael J. Tresca
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson, NC 28640
9780786458950, $35.00, www.mcfarlandpub.com

Fantasy role playing games are the ancestors of modern video games, and their family line runs deep. "The Evolution of Fantasy Role-Playing Games" looks at the history of these games, drawing back to Tolkien's book and his massive construction of his world. These books spawned war games, card games, Dungeons & Dragons, modern massively online role playing games, and much more on top of that. A fascinating stroll through history, "The Evolution of Fantasy Role-Playing Games" is an excellent pick and is highly recommended.

Dangerous Weapons
John Emms, Richard Palliser, Jovanka Houska
Everyman Chess
c/o Globe Pequot Press
246 Goose Lane, PO Box 480, Guilford Ct. 06437-0480
9781857446357, $27.95, www.everymanchess.com

A creative tactic can win you a match when your opponent only expects the standard fundamentals. "Dangerous Weapons: The Caro-Kann" is a guide to the Caro-Kann Chess strategy, explaining the plot move my move and how to more properly execute it in one's game. Written by Chess masters John Emms, Richard Palliser, & Jovanka Houska, they lend their experience to create a more excellent and winning strategy for one's chess matches. "Dangerous Weapons: The Caro-Kann" is a read that should be required for every chess player taking pride in their strategy.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

Lend Me a Tenor
Ken Ludwig
A Smith and Kraus Book
177 Lyme Road, NH 03755
9781575257761, $19.95, www.smithandkraus.com

A good play is quite the experience, not just for the audience, but the participants. "Lend Me a Tenor: And Other Plays" is a collection of plays from Ken Ludwig. The titular play focuses on the rift between generations. 'Moon Over Buffalo' is about the courage to take a second chances, 'Leading Ladies' is about overcoming barriers, and 'Shakespeare' in Hollywood focuses on the lost dreams we all have. "Lend Me a Tenor" is a fun read for lovers of the theater and is very highly recommended.


The Nautical Shelf

France/Norway
John Maxtone - Graham
W. W. Norton
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
9780393069037, $75.00, www.wwnorton.com

With a massive cruise ship, the journey is the destination. "France/Norway: France's Last Liner/Norway's First Mega Cruise Ship" tells the story of this massive thousand foot long ship which gained notoriety for being nearly scrapped by France due to fuel cost concerns and adopted by a Norwegian business. Packed cover to cover with full color photos, graphs, and plenty specifications, "France/Norway" is an excellent pick for history collections with a focus on nautical vessels and the travel industry. It also makes for an excellent coffee table book.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Sex Matters So...
Lynn A. Anderson
411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
9781453859964, $9.95, www.doctorlynn.com

A good sexual health is a cornerstone to an overall healthy life. "Sex Matters So...Get Sexually Healthy the Natural Way" is a guide to sexual health from Lynn A. Anderson stating the importance sex in health and how it can be improved and encouraged and be the cornerstone of good life. Discussing everything from the maturation of sexual needs and much more, "Sex Matters So..." is a choice and powerful read for those who want to understand sexual health.

50 Ways to Sooth Yourself Without Food
Susan Albers
New Harbinger Publications
5674 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609
9781572246768, $16.95, www.newharbinger.com

Food is often all too relied on for comfort, and this has many consequences. "50 Ways to Soothe Yourself Without Food" is a guide for avoiding the pit of comfort food that so often lures many people in trying times down the road of poor health when there are other problems. Stating that feeding the mouth when you should be feeding your emotions won't solve anything, Susan Albers gives a wide array of simple soothing methods, from a good path to deliberately clearing one's head. "50 Ways to Soothe Yourself Without Food" is filled with simple wisdom and is very highly recommended.

Pain Pill Addiction
Jana Burson
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H, Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781608446988, $17.95

Injury leads to pain, pain leads to pills, pills lead to addiction. "Pain Pill Addiction: A Prescription for Hope" is a guide for readers and loved ones who are facing addiction and how it can take control of their lives. With plenty of information for pain pill addicts to help them shake their addiction and free themselves to function as a clean individual. With notes from other addicts who have cleansed themselves, "Pain Pill Addiction" is a thoughtful read with plenty of encouragement for those who want to shake the addiction from their lives.

The Better Bladder Book
Wendy Cohan
Hunter House
PO Box 2914, Alameda, CA 94501
9780897935555, $17.95, www.hunterhouse.com

Problems that are hard to talk about are still problems nonetheless. "The Better Bladder Book: A Holistic Approach to Healing Interstitial Cystitus & Chronic Pelvic Pain" is filled with questions and answers for dealing with the many crises of the bladder and the pain and misery it can bring into one's life. From diet to exercise to medicines, and other techniques, "The Better Bladder Book" is an incredibly valuable tool for anyone trying to fight their own chronic pain in this area.


The Railroading Shelf

Model Railroading from Prototype to Layout
Tony Koester
Kalmbach
21027 Crossroads Circle, PO Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187-1612
9780890247976, $21.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com

A model railroad is the labor of love. "Model Railroading from Prototype to Layout" is a guide for model railroad enthusiasts who favor realism and authenticity int heir work. With tips on drawing from reality with a how to guide to simulate historical and modern railroads with quickness and Excellency, Tony Koester translates his own love well into a read full of advice and makes for an invaluable resource for model train realists. "Model Railroading from Prototype to Layout" is a core addition to community library railroading collections.


The Computer Shelf

iPad Programming
Daniel H. Steinberg & Eric T. Freeman
Pragmatic Bookshelf
P.O. Box 293325, Lewisville, TX 75029-3325
9781934356579, $34.95

The iPad is Apple's latest innovation, and developers are flocking towards it. "iPad Programming: A Quick-Start Guide for iPhone Developers" is a guide for those who have used the iPhone well and want to take their techniques to the much more powerful and diverse iPad. Apple has made it easier than ever to get into creating one's own apps, and doing it well can set you above the millions of other developers out there. "iPad Programming" is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to jump to the bigger format, highly recommended.

The Book of PF
Peter N. M. Hansteen
No Starch Press
38 Ringold Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
9781593272746, $29.95, www.nostarch.com

Just because you're not using Windows doesn't decrease the high value of security. "The Book of PF: A No-Nonsense Guide to the OpenBSD Firewall" seeks to educate readers and users of Open BSD on PF, OpenBSD's firewall. Using PF to its fullest will provide a secure network, but it can be quite overwhelming to new OpenBSD adopters who are looking to gain a better understanding of this operating systems and its many tools. With everything you need to know to succeed, "The Book of PF" is an invaluable tool, and highly recommended.

Murach's PHP and MySQL
Joel Murach & Ray Harris
Mike Murach and Associates, Inc.
4340 N. Knoll, Fresno, CA 93722
9781890774561, $54.50, www.murach.com

PHP and MySQL are the building blocks of the modern internet. "Murach's PHP and MySQL" is a guide to the languages that can automate many processes in today's internet. From Murach's long line of excellent technical advisory books, the quality continues how to speed up your website or business through intelligent use of these functions, and gives readers all the tools they need to understand the basics and more advanced techniques of both PHP and MySQL. With additional tips on how to integrate it into one's website, and getting the software to make it all easier, "Murach's PHP and MySQL" is a solid addition to any community or college library collection dedicated to web design.


The Science/Technology Shelf

Plain & Simple
Johnathan Lightfoot & Chris Beckett
Microsoft
c/o O'Reilly Media
1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472
9780735642287, $24.99, www.microsoft.com

Sharing information quickly and easily is an invaluable took for success. "Plain & Simple: Microsoft SharePoint 2010" is a guide to using Microsoft's newest tool to its furthest extent for one's business and other venture where information is the key to victory. From creating websites to store information to integrating it with Microsoft's other Office programs, Jonathan Lightfoot & Chris Beckett make "Plain & Simple" provide an excellent and very highly recommended instructional manual for any technology collection.

The Art of Image Processing
Kenny A. Hunt
AK Peters
5 Commonwealth Road, Suite 2C, Natick, MA 01760
9781568817170, $69.00, www.akpeters.com

Digital images have more presence than ever in today's world. "The Art of Image Processing with Java" is a guide to using the common web application Java in filing and archiving vast amounts of digital photographs for later use or use in other applications. From processing digital images based on light, color, and more, Kenny Hunt gives a complete and comprehensive guide and overview to just what Java can do with plenty of advanced techniques on editing and alterations, as well as compression. "The Art of Image Processing with Java" is a strongly recommended guide for anyone who wants to use the application to its fullest.


The Agricultural Shelf

Chick Days
Jenna Woginrich
Storey
210 Mass Moca Way, North Adams, MA 01247
9781603425841, $14.95, www.storey.com

Food, eggs, general cuteness, there's plenty of reasons to raise chicks from birth. "Chick Days: Raising Chickens From Hatchlings to Laying Hens" is described as an absolute beginner's guide from Jenna Woginrich who will give readers what they need to know to get started in the world of chicken farming, with a full array of tips and tricks from taking a newborn just out of the egg bird into a mutually beneficial relationship between owner and laying hen. "Chick Days" is a useful and highly recommended resource for anyone thinking of owning hens for themselves.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

God King
Graham McNeill
Black Library
1525 Hulse Road, Unit 1, Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
9781844168996, $8.99, www.blacklibrary.com

For absolute rule to stand, there must be no opponents. "God King: The Legend of Sigmar" is the third book of the Sigmar trilogy set in the famed Warhammer universe, following the first Emperor in his triumphs over the orcs only to find a new challenge come from the world of magic to challenge his place as the first Emperor. In a nonstop and exciting read of fantasy that doesn't let up, "God King" is sure to be just what Warhammer fans were waiting for.


The Social Issues Shelf

Ferraris for All
Daniel Ben-ami
The Policy Press
920 NE 58th Avenue, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213-3786
9781847423467, $29.95, www.policypress.co.uk

Is a world where doing well for all even possible? "Ferraris for All" is a discussion of the social issues of economics and prosperity for today's world. Written by British Finance Journalist Daniel Ben-Ami, he discusses affluence and how many current notions seek to limit wealth gain. He feels that this is not the path to a more equal world, but instead encouraging greater prosperity to all instead of demonizing it. With plenty of thoughtful principles, "Ferraris for All" is an excellent and insightful collection of work, very highly recommended.

Whose Crisis, Whose Future?
Susan George
Polity
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
Wiley (distributor)
350 Main St., Malden, MA 02148
9780745651385, $19.95, www.politybooks.com

Environmental issues are not a problem of a modern day, but a problem of the future. "Whose Crisis, Whose Future?: Towards a Greener, Fairer, Richer World" is an analysis of today's challenges and whose shoulders they lie on. Financial crisis, environmental issues, and others. Susan George states while that these problems may not have immediate implications, they are major issues and working on them now can lead to a much brighter future for all of us. "Whose Crisis, Whose Future?" looks at today's crisis on the grand scale.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Knitwit
Katie Boyette
Sellers Publishing
161 John Roberts Road, South Portland, ME 04106
9781416206088, $18.95, www.sellerspublishing.com

There's more to knitting to quilts and warm caps. "Knitwit: 20 Fun Projects for Beginners and Seasoned Knitters" is a collection of offbeat and fun things for one to knit. These projects are broken down in a step by step process, not only to allow knitters to replicate these projects that range from lobsters to vampire pandas, but use the disciplines they learn to create their own exciting work. "Knitwit" is filled with inspiration and is very highly recommended for those who want to move past mittens.


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


Copyright ©2001

Site design by Williams Writing, Editing & Design