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Wisconsin Bookwatch

Volume 13, Number 1 January 2018 Home | WBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Writing/Publishing Shelf American History Shelf
Money/Finance Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf Graphic Novel Shelf
Business Shelf Poetry Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf
Antiques/Collectibles Shelf Fiction Shelf Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Railroading Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Automotive Shelf Christian Studies Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf
Islamic Studies Shelf Buddhist Studies Shelf Photography Shelf
Woodworking Shelf Fashion Shelf Needlecraft Shelf
Parenting Shelf Self-Help Shelf Audiobook Shelf
Music CD Shelf DVD/Blu-ray Shelf Travel Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Architecture Shelf Education Shelf
Biography Shelf Fishing Shelf Sports Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

The Raftsmen
Ryan Barnett, author
Dmitry Bondarenko, illustrator
Firefly Books Ltd.
50 Staples Avenue, Unit 1, Richmond Hill, ON, Canada L4B 0A7
www.fireflybooks.com
9781770859784, $24.95, HC, 224pp, www.amazon.com

For four French expatriates who escaped the clutches of the Nazi regime to find asylum in Canada, adventure was to be the antidote to depression brought on by the cruelty of war. In 1956, armed with nothing but the flannel on their backs, a small stock of food, and some crude navigation and communication equipment, the quartet set sail from Halifax. Their goal was to become the first crew to cross the Atlantic by raft. Fashioned from telephone poles and built entirely by hand, the raft they called L'Egare II would be their home for 88 harrowing days as they crossed the North Atlantic from Canada to Britain. And they made it! Ryan Barnett is a documentary filmmaker and a producer at Historica Canada. Dmitry Bondarenko is a Canadian artist and illustrator who lives and works in Toronto. In "The Raftsmen" they collaborate to present a dramatic and thrilling portrait of a long-forgotten true adventure and astounding seafaring achievement set in the aftermath of World War II. An inherently fascinating read from beginning to end, "The Raftsmen" is unreservedly recommended for the personal reading lists of real life action/adventure fans, and will prove to be a unique and enduringly popular addition to community library collections.

Tortillas, Tiswin, and T-Bones
Gregory McNamee
University of New Mexico Press
MSC05 3185, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque NM 87131-0001
www.unmpress.com
9780826359049, $24.95, PB, 256pp, www.amazon.com

A detailed history that is as informative as it is inherently fascinating for dedicated food buffs, Gregory McNamee explores the many ethnic and cultural traditions that have contributed to the food of the Southwest in the pages of "Tortillas, Tiswin, and T-Bones: A Food History of the Southwest". McNamee deftly traces the origins of the distinctive southwester cuisines to the arrival of humans in the Americas, the work of the earliest farmers of Mesoamerica, and the most ancient trade networks joining peoples of the coast, plains, and mountains. From the ancient chile pepper and agave to the comparatively recent fare of sushi and Frito pie, this complex culinary journey involves many players over space and time. Born of scarcity, migration, and climate change, these foods are now fully at home in the Southwest of today -- and with the "southwesternization" of the American palate at large, they are found across the globe. McNamee also extends that story across thousands of years to the present, even imagining what the southwestern menu will look like in the near future. While very highly recommended, especially for both community and academic library Food History collections and supplemental studies lists, it should be noted for students, academics, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Tortillas, Tiswin, and T-Bones: A Food History of the Southwest" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.96).

The Dog Who Wouldn't Be
Farley Mowat
David R. Godine, Publisher
Fifteen Court Square, Suite 320, Boston, MA 02108-2536
www.godine.com
9781567926125, $15.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

Also available for community and academic library Canadian Biography collections, "The Dog Who Wouldn't Be" was originally published in 1957, and became one of those classic dog books that everyone who ever read it remembers. Much as they remember the great Canadian novelist and environmentalist Farley Mowat - for his wry humor, his marvelous use of language (his father was a librarian), his passion for animals in all forms and the outdoors in all its glory, and his seemingly endless series of misadventures. A deftly crafted memoir that still proves after the passage of 50 years to be an inherently fascinating and memorable read from cover to cover, "The Dog Who Wouldn't Be" should be a part of every community, college, and university library collection.

Cowboy Up! Life Lessons from Lazy B
H. Alan Day with Lynn Wiese Sneyd
www.alandayauthor.com
Morgan James Publishing
11815 Fountain Way, Suite 300, Newport News, VA 23606-4448
www.morganjamespublishing.com
9781683503989 $17.00 pbk / $7.99 Kindle amazon.com

Cowboy Up! Life Lessons from Lazy B is an anthology of true-life stories from award-winning author and modern-day American cowboy H. Alan Day, who grew up on a southwestern cattle ranch working with cowhands, horses, and the land. Here are tales of raising an abandoned baby hawk, surviving an unexpected crash of the small airplane he flew around the ranch daily, and trapping quail so his sister attending Stanford could create a memorable dinner for her fellow residents. Lively, adventurous, and with a dash of wry humor, Cowboy Up! Life Lessons from Lazy B is captivating from cover to cover, and the next best thing to experiencing ranch life in person. Highly recommended!


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

Novel & Short Story Writer's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide to Getting Published
Rachel Randall
Writer's Digest Books
c/o F+W Media
10151 Carver Road, Suite 200, Blue Ash, OH 45242
www.writersdigest.com
9781440352652, $29.99, PB, 512pp, www.amazon.com

Rachel Randall, Covington, KY, is the Content Strategist for Writer's Digest. She has served as editor for short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Her musings on fiction craft and the writing life can be found on the Writer's Digest "There Are No Rules" blog. Novel & Short Story Writer's Market 2018 is the only resource you need to get your short stories, novellas, and novels published. Under her knowledgeable and experienced editorship, this l37th edition of "Novel & Short Story Writer's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide to Getting Published" features hundreds of updated listings for book publishers, literary agents, fiction publications, contests, and more, and each listing includes contact information, submission guidelines, and other essential tips. Additionally, "Novel & Short Story Writer's Market 2018", offers 'real world practical' tips for: How to take your readers on a roller-coaster ride by mastering the art of the unexpected; Weaving foreshadowing and echoing into your story; Discovering the DNA (dialogue, narrative, and action) dwelling inside all memorable characters. Of special note for beginning writers are the insights provided from best-selling and award-winning authors, including Steve Berry, Liane Moriarty, Junot Diaz, and more. Also included is a one-year subscription to WritersMarket.com's searchable online database of fiction publishers (this comes with print version only). Pluse there is exclusive access to the webinar "Say What? Create Dialogue to Hook Readers and Make Your Story Pop" by best-selling author Jennifer Probst. While "Novel & Short Story Writer's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide to Getting Published" is a critically important addition to every author's instructional reference bookshelf, and should be a part of every community and academic library's Writing/Publishing reference collection, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Novel & Short Story Writer's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide to Getting Published" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry
Robert Lee Brewer
Writer's Digest Books
c/o F+W Media
10151 Carver Road, Suite 200, Blue Ash, OH 45242
www.writersdigest.com
9781440352676, $29.99, PB, 474pp, www.amazon.com

Voted Poet Laureate of the Blogosphere in 2010, Robert Lee Brewer, Suwanee, GA, is the Senior Content Editor for the Writer's Digest Writing Community, focusing especially on WritersMarket.com and the Writer's Market series. He is also the editor for the 31st annual edition of "Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry", which is an absolutely essential instructional reference and resource for anyone seeking to have their poetry published. The "Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry" features hundreds of publishing opportunities specifically for poets, including listings for book and chapbook publishers, print and online poetry publications, contests, and more. These listings include contact information, submission preferences, insider tips on what specific editors want, and (when offered) payment information. In addition to the completely updated listings, "Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry" offers brand-new articles devoted to the craft and business of poetry, including how to handle a book launch, delivering poetry in unusual places, starting your own poetry workshop, and more. "Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry" also offers: A one-year subscription to the poetry-related information and listings on WritersMarket.com; Lists of conferences, workshops, organizations, and grants; A free digital download of Writer's Yearbook, featuring the 100 Best Markets: WritersDigest.com/WritersDigest-Yearbook-17; Exclusive access to the webinar "PR for Poets: The Secret to Getting Your Poems Read" from Jeannine Hall Gailey. Impressively informative, exceptionally well organized and presented, thoroughly 'user friendly' in form and format, "Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry" should be a part of ever aspiring poet's personal instructional reference and resource collections. While very highly recommended for both community and academic library Writing/Publishing collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Poet's Market 2018: The Most Trusted Guide for Publishing Poetry" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Daily Writing Resilience
Bryan E. Robinson
www.bryanrobinsonbooks.com
Llewellyn Publications
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125
www.llewellyn.com
9780738753430, $19.99, PB, 432pp, www.amazon.com

There is not a seasoned author or an aspiring one who has not had to deal with rejection, setbacks, and heartbreak. Ironically, most literary agents believe that the most important element to writing success is perseverance in the face of disappointment. Bryan E. Robinson is the author of 35 nonfiction books and two novels (www.bryanrobinsonbooks.com) and in "Daily Writing Resilience: 365 Meditations & Inspirations for Writers" draws upon his years of experience and expertise to provides an incredibly valuable volume of 'real world' advice, inspiration, and techniques to help even the most novice of aspiring authors to turn writer's blocks into launch pads. Offering a wealth of tips and support through exercises such as meditation, breath work, yoga, stress management, gratitude, de-cluttering, sleep, exercise, mindful eating, and more, Robinson presents 365 meditations will help anyone successfully navigate the ups-and-downs of their writing practice, creating positive habits that will guide them toward the success and fulfillment that they have been seeking. As thoughtful and thought provoking as it is inspired and inspiring, "Daily Writing Resilience: 365 Meditations & Inspirations for Writers" should be considered a core addition to the personal reference shelf of anyone seeking (or maintaining) a professional career as a writer. Indeed, no personal, professional, community, or academic library Writing/Publishing instructional reference collection should be without a copy of Bryan Robinson's "Daily Writing Resilience: 365 Meditations & Inspirations for Writers"!


The American History Shelf

In Missouri's Wilds
Richard J. Janet
Truman State University Press
100 East Normal Street, Kirksville, MO 63501-4221
http://tsup.truman.edu
9781612481982, $24.95, PB, 288pp, www.amazon.com

In 1818, a small group of Catholic clerics established a religious community in southeastern Missouri and opened a school, grounded in its European Vincentian roots but influenced by the isolation of its rural location. St. Mary's of the Barrens became the first American institution of higher learning west of the Mississippi River and only the fourth Catholic seminary in the United States. Over the years, St. Mary's emerged as a significant institution whose early leaders played an important role in the development of the Catholic Church on the American frontier. The school's subsequent history reflected the changing status of the growing American Catholic community. "In Missouri's Wilds: St. Mary's of the Barrens and the American Catholic Church, 1818 to 2016" is a definitive history of the Barrens in which author and historian Rick Janet (Professor of History at Rockhurst University in Kansas City) demonstrates how its story reflects the broader sweep of the American Catholic experience. An impressively researched and deftly informative study, "In Missouri's Wilds" is an unique, extraordinary read, making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to community and academic library collections.


The Money/Finance Shelf

The Young Adult's Guide to Graduating College Debt-Free: Skills and Strategies
Nicole Deloria
Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc.
1405 S.W. 6th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471
www.atlantic-pub.com
9781620232453, $32.95, Library Binding, 198pp, www.amazon.com

Almost by definition, college is prohibitively expensive, especially for working class and middle class families. The average graduating college senior is nearly $30,000 in debt when he or she walks off campus. There is also more financial aid available than ever before, with more than $238 billion distributed in 2012-13. That's why Nicole Deloria's "The Young Adult's Guide to Graduating College Debt-Free: Skills and Strategies" should be a part of every highschool, community, and college library collection. It provides up-to-date information on over 2,200 programs that offer scholarships, internships, or loans to more than 1.7 million students each year. "The Young Adult's Guide to Graduating College Debt-Free: Skills and Strategies" will also provide hundreds of innovative ways to cut college costs, including tips on how to earn college credit on an accelerated basis, how to calculate your college budget, how to make use of tuition prepayment plans, how to combine higher education and course-related employment, and how to buy supplies and textbooks for cheap. Simply stated, "The Young Adult's Guide to Graduating College Debt-Free: Skills and Strategies" is essential reading for anyone seeking a college education today. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Young Adult's Guide to Graduating College Debt-Free: Skills and Strategies" is also available in a paperback edition (9781620231937, $19.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.95).


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Hounds Who Heal
Chris Kent
Hubble & Hattie
www.hubbleandhattie.com
9781845849733, $12.99, PB, 128pp, www.amazon.com

"Hounds Who Heal: People and dogs - it's a kind of magic" by Chris Kent is the story of the K9 Project, which is a unique organization that works with rescue dogs who now act as therapy dogs. Heart-warming and educational "Hounds Who Heal" presents illustrative examples of human/canine companionship as isolated adults and children learn to believe in themselves and make the often-elusive connection to a friend. Telling the story of each of the dogs, and many of the people they helped along the way, readers will learn from the people whose lives have been transformed. Chris Kent is founder of this unique project, has her story of laughter, frustration, joy, and tears of the Project's eight-year journey. An inherently fascinating and exceptionally informative read, "Hounds Who Heal: People and dogs - it's a kind of magic" is an especially recommended addition to both community and academic library Pets/Wildlife collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of anyone who has enjoyed having a canine companion of their own that "Hounds Who Heal: People and dogs - it's a kind of magic" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).


The Graphic Novel Shelf

The Prince and the Dressmaker
Jen Wang
First Second
175 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10010
www.firstsecondbooks.com
9781626723634 $16.99 amazon.com

The Prince and the Dressmaker is an all-ages graphic novel; despite the fairytale title, it's set in modern times. Sebastian is a teenaged Belgian prince with a secret - he enjoys wearing women's dresses. Sebastian is not gay, and he accepts his identity as a male prince; he simply likes to wear women's clothing. In his alter ego of Lady Crystallia, Sebastian takes Paris fashion by storm with the aid of a talented female dressmaker, Frances. Sebastian worries that he will not be able to properly succeed his father's kingly duties, and he is nervous about his parents' efforts to 'encourage' him to marry (although he allegedly has a choice in who his future bride will be). The relationship between Sebastian and Frances begins to deepen, but how can Frances fulfill her dream of becoming a legendary dressmaker if she has to live in Sebastian's shadow and hide his secret? Poignant, thoughtful, and ultimately heartwarming, The Prince and the Dressmaker is highly recommended.

Is This Guy for Real?
Written and illustrated by Box Brown
First Second
175 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10010
www.firstsecondbooks.com
9781626723160 $19.99 amazon.com

Is This Guy for Real? is a biographical graphic novel in black-and-white, about comedian and performer Andy Kaufman, well known for his abrasive or even contemptible public personas. Yet his closest friends and family knew him to be compassionate and sensitive. How did Kaufman build an entire career around the hatred of his own audience? Is This Guy for Real? draws upon an extensive bibliography to provide a nuanced, thought-provoking take on Andy Kaufman's complicated, larger-than-life story. Highly recommended.

Penny Dreadful - The Ongoing Series Volume 1: The Awaking
Chris King, Jesus Hervas, Jason Wordie, Rob Steen
Titan Comics
https://titan-comics.com
9781785855276, $16.99, PB, 112pp, www.amazon.com

Based on the popular television horror fantasy series, "Penny Dreadful - The Ongoing Series Volume 1: The Awaking" picks up the story with the reintroduction of all the main characters in another Armageddon confrontation between competing forces of evil with the human population merely pawns in a supernatural ware for domination of the planet between Draculas and his vampiric minions and Set/Lucifer and his army of demons. Beautifully illustrated and an inherently fascinating read from cover to cover, "Penny Dreadful - The Ongoing Series Volume 1: The Awaking" is a 'must' for the graphic novel collections of all dedicated horror fantasy fans.

Shaka Rising
Luke Molver, author & illustrator
Story Press Africa
c/o Catalyst Press
www.catalystpress.org
9781946498991, $24.00, HC, 96pp, www.amazon.com

In a land beset by political turmoil and bloody conflict comes the epic saga of Shaka. Ousted by one of his chief father's jealous wives and raised in exile, his destiny is sealed through allegiance to a rival chief. Responding to threats from expanding slave trade in southern Africa, Shaka consolidates a new kingdom through warfare, mediation, and shrewd diplomacy. Deftly written and superbly illustrated by Luke Molver, "Shaka Rising: A Legend of the Warrior Prince" is a truly extraordinary and entertaining graphic novel that will decidedly prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community library graphic novel collections for readers ages 16 to 86. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Shaka Rising: A Legend of the Warrior Prince" is also available in a paperback edition (9781946498984, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).


The Business Shelf

Let's Go Invent Tomorrow
Jessica Easto
Agate B2
c/o Agate Publishing
1328 Greenleaf Street, Evanston, IL 60202
www.agatepublishing.com
9781572842328, $19.95, HC, 376pp, www.amazon.com

Impressively compiled and edited by Jessica Easto, "Let's Go Invent Tomorrow" collects 365 thought-provoking and inspiring quotations that are packed with insights on business, management, and leadership from the world's most successful entrepreneurs. Curated from the best quotes in the In Their Own Words series, "Let's Go Invent Tomorrow" provides future leaders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and business professionals with a full year's worth of advice and perspective from visionaries such as Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, Oprah Winfrey, Jack Ma, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, and more. The In Their Own Words series highlights entrepreneurs who have built influential companies from the ground up, and whose contributions have changed the way business is done around the world. While very highly recommended for corporate, community, and academic library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Let's Go Invent Tomorrow" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Power of Vulnerability
Barry Kaplan & Jeffrey Manchester
Greenleaf Book Group Press
PO Box 91869, Austin, TX 78709
www.greenleafbookgroup.com
9781626344730,$24.95, HC, 256pp, www.amazon.com

In "The Power of Vulnerability: How to Create a Team of Leaders by Shifting Inward, executive coaches Barry Kaplan and Jeffrey Manchester draw upon their years of experience and expertise to collaboratively create a thoroughly 'user friendly' instructional guide to finding success and fulfillment for teams and individuals. Based on their work through Shift180 with executives and their teams, "The Power of Vulnerability" offers a new approach to transforming corporate culture so that you can thrive at work and in life. Work is often a source of dissatisfaction for people because in their desire to get ahead, they often lose touch with their values and internal sources of power. "The Power of Vulnerability" shows how to: Create a sense of safety; Encourage exploration; Develop an INpowered team that transcends organizational hierarchy; Foster communication; Be authentic. "The Power of Vulnerability" is fundamental to establishing a supportive, and open corporate culture that will create loyalty and long-term employee commitment to the organization. Exceptional, informative, inspiring, and thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "The Power of Vulnerability" is unreservedly recommended for corporate, community, and academic library Business Management collections and supplemental studies reading lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, corporate executives, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Power of Vulnerability" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).


The Poetry Shelf

Book Of Twilight
Pablo Neruda
Copper Canyon Press
PO Box 271, Port Townsend, WA 98368
www.coppercanyonpress.org
9781556593987, $20.00, HC, 180pp, www.amazon.com

Pablo Neruda: Pablo Neruda was born Neftali Ricardo Reyes Basoalto in Parral, Chile, in 1904. He served as consul in Burma and held diplomatic posts in various East Asian and European countries. In 1945, a few years after he joined the Communist Party, Neruda was elected to the Chilean Senate. Shortly thereafter, when Chile's political climate took a sudden turn to the right, Neruda fled to Mexico, and lived as an exile for several years. He later established a permanent home at Isla Negra. In 1970 he was appointed as Chile's ambassador to France, and in 1971 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. He died in 1973. Now Cooper Canyon Press has published "Book Of Twilight" which is comprised of Neruda's poetry as ably translated into English by William O'Daly. Simply stated, this bilingual edition of the "Book Of Twilight" is unreservedly recommended, both to his legions of appreciative fans and to community and academic library poetry collections.

Wine of Reunion: Arabic Poems of Rumi
Rumi, author
Nesreen Akhtarkhavari, translator
Anthony A. Lee, editor
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25, East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
http://msupress.org
9781611862638, $19.95, PB, 120pp, www.amazon.com

Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi also known simply as Rumi (30 September 1207 - 17 December 1273), was a 13th-century Persian Sunni, a Muslim poet, a jurist, an Islamic scholar, a theologian, and a Sufi mystic. compiled, translated into English, and deftly edited by the team of Nesreen Akhtarkhavari (Associate Professor of Arabic Language and Culture and the Director of Arabic Studies at DePaul University) and Anthony A. Lee (an award-winning poet and Lecturer of History at UCLA and at West Los Angeles College), "Wine of Reunion: Arabic Poems of Rumi" is an inherently fascinating anthology showcasing poems that take the reader on a journey of spiritual search, ecstatic union, universal salvation, and mystic reconciliation -- a journey in verse wherein Rumi reveals his soul and welcomes everyone to his spiritual feast. This dual-language volume, with its informative introduction, is one of the first to bring Rumi's Arabic poems into English, and it opens a treasury of Rumi's mystic thought and electrifying poetry. The poems pulsate with desire and longing, with erotic meaning, and with ecstatic celebration. Rumi found in his mystic poetry a vehicle for the expression of the endless spiritual bounties of love. The reader will find, at the center of his faith and doctrine, love and a strong belief in universal salvation and unlimited generosity. Simply stated, "Wine of Reunion: Arabic Poems of Rumi" is a critically important and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, community, college, and university library Arabic Poetry collections in general, and Rumi supplemental studies lists in particular.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

The Pain-Free Back
Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming
YMAA Publications
PO Box 480, Wolfeboro, NH 03894-0480
www.ymaa.com
9781594395376, $16.95, PB, 214pp, www.amazon.com

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, nearly 80 percent of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. For many, the condition progresses to the point where they will have to manage pain for years to come. Some will have little choice but to rely on prescription medication. But for the millions of others with back pain, there is hope. By committing to a series of simple exercises, we can remain loose and flexible. We can prevent and heal injuries to maintain a strong, healthy back. Motion is the key, and in "The Pain-Free Back: 54 Simple Qigong Movements for Healing and Prevention" Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming will get you moving. You will regain natural, pain-free motion and balance with qigong, a timeless Chinese art that promotes healing, flexibility, and balance. The gentle, meditative movements emphasize proper motion in coordination with breath, making qigong the right choice for preventing, treating, and healing back pain. "The Pain-Free Back" features: 3 back-loosening movements; 12 back-stretching movements; 30 back-healing movements; 7 movements for immediate relief; 2 back-strengthening movements; a 12-step plan for keeping your back healthy. Exceptionally and impressively 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "The Pain-Free Back" is unreservedly recommended for both community and academic library Health/Medicine collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Pain-Free Back" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Healing With Hemp Oil
Earl Mindell
Square One Publishers
115 Herricks Road, Garden City Park, NY 11040
www.squareonepublishers.com
9780757004551, $16.95, PB, 160pp, www.amazon.com

Hemp oil is obtained by pressing hemp seeds. Cold pressed, unrefined hemp oil is dark to clear light green in color, with a nutty flavor. The darker the color, the grassier the flavor. "Healing With Hemp Oil: A Simple Guide to Using the Powerful and Proven Health Benefits of CBD" by registered pharmacist, master herbalist, and college educator Earl Mindell begins by looking at the important role the hemp plant has played in both Eastern and Western societies as a source for paper, textiles, rope, and so much more. This is followed by a discussion of the science behind CBD's medical benefits. "Healing With Hemp Oil" then provides a consumer's guide to buying hemp products (especially its oil and its CBD supplements) while offering an insightful examination of hemp's legal status in the United States, from the 1900s to now. Finally, based on up-to-date studies, Dr. Mindell presents an A-to-Z guide to the many uses of hemp oil and CBD for various health conditions, from arthritis to depression to heart disease. Although the United States has given CBD-rich hemp a problematic legal status, fortunately, this product (sourced from other countries) is readily available. "Healing with Hemp Oil" guides it's users in using this all-natural substance as a safe, side effect-free remedy, making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Alternative Health & Medicine collections and supplemental studies lists. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Healing With Hemp Oil" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.86).

An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary
Holly Bellebuono
Llewellyn Publications
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125
www.llewellyn.com
9780738753034, $19.99, PB, 384pp, www.amazon.com

Holly Bellebuono has been a community herbalist, apothecary director, and teacher for over two decades. She uses her inspiring lectures, books, curriculum, retreats, and workshops to empower people to think creatively and explore healing and success. Those interested in herbal medicine can visit her online at www.HollyBellebuono.com. In "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary: The Art & Science of Creating Effective Herbal Remedies" she draws upon her many years of experience and impressive expertise to explore the ancient art of formulary in the form of a comprehensive guide to creating effective herbal medicine. Organized by body systems, "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" shows how to design a holistic treatment for acute and chronic conditions. Packed from cover to cover with detailed information on more than one hundred plants, "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" is the unreservedly recommended go-to reference for formulary. "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" presents a 4-tier formula structure as a commonsense way to integrate a wide range of herbal actions while keeping the formula simple. "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" includes the history of healing traditions as well as personal and clinical examples that illustrate the art of combining plants for illnesses, preventative care, and overall wellness. With the guidance as an instructional and reference resource, "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" will enable healing-arts practitioners turn formulary into a rewarding and practical skill. Unique and exceptional, "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" is especially recommended for personal, professional, community, and academic library Health/Medicine collections and Herbal Medicine supplemental studies lists. It should be noted for students, herbalists, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "An Herbalist's Guide to Formulary" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Break Through with Breathwork
Jim Morningstar
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
www.northatlanticbooks.com
9781623171612, $21.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

When working with trauma and chronic health issues, it can often seem like the healing process gets stuck or is producing only minimal progress. "Break Through with Breathwork: Jump-Starting Personal Growth in Counseling and the Healing Arts" by licensed clinical psychologist Jim Morningstar (a pioneer in the integration of psychotherapy with mind-body techniques such as breathwork and bio-spiritual energetics), is a groundbreaking study that shows therapists, bodyworkers, and other health care professionals how to achieve remarkable breakthroughs with their clients using the power of Therapeutic Breathwork. Unlike more commonly known mindfulness breathwork techniques Therapeutic Breathwork is designed to also include faster-than-normal breathing (35 - 75 breaths per minute) to enervate the sympathetic nervous system. This is especially useful in helping to release blocks that arise while working through difficult emotional issues, including PTSD, addiction, depression, and anxiety. While traditional talk therapy can take many years, sometimes decades, to produce minimal relief, Therapeutic Breathwork can help facilitate astonishing breakthroughs within a single session. "Break Through with Breathwork" deftly explains how therapists can reinforce these breakthroughs with additional techniques for self-regulation, dramatically reducing recovery time and often resolving challenges that might never have been worked through in standard practice. Very highly recommended for both medical clinic, counseling center, community and academic library Health/Medicine collections and supplemental studies lists, "Break Through with Breathwork" is an accessible and thorough introduction to one of the most powerful tools in supporting health and well-being, reducing stress, and stimulating deep emotional and spiritual growth. It should be noted for medical students, counselors, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Break Through with Breathwork" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Spoon
Daniel Rozensztroch
Pointed Leaf Press
136 Baxter Street, Suite 1C, New York, NY 10013
www.pointedleafpress.com
9781938461422, $49.98, HC, 216pp, www.amazon.com

Daniel Rozensztroch has been a longtime consultant to the magazine Marie-Claire Maison and is now the creative director of the Merci shop in Paris, France. A visual celebration of one of the most universally recognizable and beloved objects of our daily lives, "Spoon" showcases hundreds of spoons drawn from Rozensztroch's personal collection. Obsessively collected over the course of several years, there are spoons made of wood, glass, mother of pearl, bone, metal, horn, porcelain, enamel, and ceramic, as well as spoons by artists, vintage spoons, rare one-of-a-kind museum quality pieces to the typical spoon of our everyday life that can be found in homes all over the world. The spoon as an object transcends all cultures. With high-quality photography by Francis Amiand and fine Italian printing, This Pointed Leaf Press edition of "Spoon" is perfect for collectors and lovers of everyday objects -- and will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, community, museum, and community library Antiques/Collectibles collections and supplemental studies lists.


The Fiction Shelf

The Evenings: A Winter's Tale
Gerard Reve
Pushkin Press
www.pushkinpress.com
9781782271789, $22.00, HC, 352pp, www.amazon.com

Twenty-three-year-old Frits - office worker, daydreamer, teller of inappropriate jokes - finds life absurd and inexplicable. He lives with his parents, who drive him mad. He has terrible, disturbing dreams of death and destruction. Sometimes he talks to a toy rabbit. "The Evenings: A Winter's Tale" is the story of ten evenings in Frits's life at the end of December, as he drinks, smokes, sees friends, aimlessly wanders the gloomy city street and tries to make sense of the minutes, hours and days that stretch before him. Darkly funny and mesmerizing, "The Evenings" takes the tiny, quotidian triumphs and heartbreaks of our everyday lives and turns them into a work of brilliant wit and profound beauty. A minor masterpiece of literary fiction, author Gerard Reve (1923-2006) is considered one of the greatest post-war Dutch authors, and was also the first openly gay writer in the country's history. His 1947 debut novel, "The Evenings" was chosen as one of the nation's 10 favorite books by the readers of a leading Dutch newspaper while the Society of Dutch Literature ranked it as the Netherlands' best novel of all time. Now in a Puskin Press edition aptly translated into English for an American readership by Sam Garren, "The Evenings: A Winter's Tale" is an extraordinary and highly recommended addition to both community and academic library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Evenings: A Winter's Tale" is also available in a paperback edition (9781782273011, $14.95).

Three Plastic Rooms
Petra Hulova
Jantar Publishing Ltd.
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7, 124 Byers Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
www.dufoureditions.com
9780993377396, $21.99, PB, 200pp, www.amazon.com

Ably translated from Czech into English for an American readership by Alex Zucker, "Three Plastic Rooms" by Petra Hulova is the story of a foul-mouthed Prague prostitute who muses on her profession, aging and the nature of materialism as imagined in her own reality TV series. In an unvarnished mixture of vulgar and poetic language, the episodes combine the mundane with fetishism, violence and dark humor. Showing a genuine flair as a novelist for narrative driven storytelling, author Petra Hulova's "Three Plastic Rooms" is an extraordinary and memorable read from beginning to end, making it an ideal addition to community library Contemporary General Fiction collections and a 'must' for the personal reading lists for anyone that appreciates a unique and especially well crafted novel.

Edge of Glory
Rachel Spangler
Bywater Books
P.O. Box 3671, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106-3671
www.bywaterbooks.com
9781612941097, $16.95, PB, 330pp, www.amazon.com

Corey LaCroix only wanted to snowboard, but Olympic medals and world championships only carry you so far when your knees ache and you're suddenly an underdog for the first time in her career. Elise Brandeis doesn't need a training partner, especially an unorthodox has-been snowboarder with an attitude. But Elise has already lost a full season to injury, and she's struggling to make the Olympic ski team. Can teaming up with Corey give her the edge she needs to go for gold, or will the snowboarder's infuriatingly cocky smile and rock hard abs prove a distraction she simply can't afford? Both champions brace themselves for the run of a lifetime. Putting their broken bodies on the line, they fight the competition, the clock, and the frozen terrain for one more chance at glory. But this time, as they ride the razor's edge between victory and defeat, the stakes are steeper than any mountain they will ever face when legacies and hearts collide. Author Rachel Spangler is the Golden Crown Literary Society and Rainbow Award-winning author of ten lesbian romance novels and novellas. "Edge of Glory" is not just her latest romance novel, it is also one of her best to date! While highly recommended, especially for community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Edge of Glory" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Gorilla In My Room: Stories
Jack Ketchum
Cemetery Dance Publications
132-B Industry Lane, Unit 7, Forest Hill, Maryland 21050
9781587675492, $40.00, HC, 190pp, www.cemeterydance.com

Jack Ketchum is the pseudonym of Dallas Mayr who is the recipient of four Bram Stoker Awards and three further nominations. Many of his novels have been adapted to film, including Red and The Woman. In 2011, Ketchum received the World Horror Convention Grand Master Award for outstanding contribution to the horror genre. Now Cemetery Dance Publications has published "Gorilla In My Room: Stories" an outstanding collection showcasing fifteen of his exquisitely crafted short stories: The Western Dead; Bully; Listen; Polaroids; Squirrely Shirley (with Lucky McKee); Group of Thirty; Winter Child; Cow (with Lucky McKee); The Transformed Mouse; The Right Thing; Awake; That Moment; Oldies; Seconds; and the title piece, Gorilla in My room. Of special note is the informative introduction by Edward Lee, Gorrilla intro. A memorable and entertaining read from cover to cover, "Gorilla In My Room: Stories" is unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library collections, as well as a 'must' for the personal reading lists of the legions of Jack Ketchum fans!

The Power of a SEAL
Anne Elizabeth
Sourcebook Casablanca
c/o Sourcebooks Inc.
1935 Brookdale Road, #139, Naperville, IL 60563
www.sourcebooks.com
9781492650928, $7.99, PB, 352pp, www.amazon.com

With over two decades of experience, Navy SEAL Leaper Lefton is bringing his expertise to young and impressionable SEAL trainees in BUD/s. As an instructor, he knows he must prepare them for all kinds of situations -- and there's a perfect opportunity for hands-on training when he spots a woman in danger in rough water. Kerry Hamilton, a marine mammal veterinarian for the U.S. Navy is beyond grateful when Leaper saves her from the rough seas, and their attraction is instant. But after everything Leaper has been through, can he truly love again? And is Kerry willing to give him the chance? "The Power of a SEAL" is the fifth and latest addition to author Anne Elizabeth's series 'West Coast Navy' series and a simply riveting and deftly crafted read from beginning to end by a master of the romance genre. While unreservedly recommended and certain to be an enduringly popular addition to community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Power of a SEAL" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.51).

pH: A Novel
Nancy Lord
WestWinds Press
c/o Graphic Arts Books
1700 Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
www.graphicartsbooks.com
9781513260709, $34.99, HC, 256pp, www.amazon.com

When marine biologist Ray Berringer and his student crew embark on an oceanographic cruise in the Gulf of Alaska, the waters are troubled in more ways than one. Ray's co-leader, a famed chemist, is abandoning ship just as the ocean's pH is becoming a major concern. Something at their university is corrosive, and it's going to take more than science to correct. Powerful bonds are forged among offbeat characters studying the effects of ocean acidification on pteropods, a tiny, keystone species, in this cutting-edge, deftly written novel. Of special note is the inclusion of an author Q&A and reading group discussion questions. While very highly recommended, especially for community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "pH: A Novel" is also available in a paperback edition (9781513260686, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.97).

Secrets of the Devil Vine
Faith Kaiser
Livingston Press
University of West Alabama
Station 22, Livingston, AL 35470
www.livingstonpress.uwa.edu
9781604891959, $24.95, HC, 241pp, www.amazon.com

Abigail Stewart returns to her childhood home in Coastal Alabama. Her need to embrace her once rejected Southern heritage is equally weighed by her desire to unearth the mysteries surrounding her dark and dangerous childhood. At every turn, her aged but unscrupulous mother attempts to thwart Abby's discoveries. Though her journey is dotted with horrific memories, she is determined to find the truth and reconcile her past. Written with a genuine flair for originality and sustained reader engagement, author Faith Kaiser's "Secrets of the Devil Vine" is a truly extraordinary novel that will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to both community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Secrets of the Devil Vine" is also available in a paperback edition (9781604891942, $15.95).

Special Envoy
Jean Echenoz
The New Press
120 Wall Street, floor 31, New York, NY 10005
www.thenewpress.com
9781620973127, $24.95, HC, 160pp, www.amazon.com

Set in Paris, rural central France, and Pyongyang, "Special Envoy" begins with an old general in France's intelligence agency asking his trusted lieutenant Paul Objat for ideas about a person he wants for a particular job: someone to aid the destabilization of Kim Jong-un's regime in North Korea. Objat has someone in mind: Constance, an attractive, restless, bored woman in a failing marriage to a washed-up pop musician. Soon after, she is abducted by Objat's cronies and spirited away into the lower depths of France's intelligence bureaucracy where she is trained for her mission. What follows is a bizarre tale of kidnappings, murders and mutilations, bad pop songs and great sex, populated by a cast of oddballs and losers. "Special Envoy" is a deftly crafted spy novel from the pen of an author with a genuine flair for narrative drive suspense. A consistently entertaining read from cover to cover, "Special Envoy" is unreservedly recommended, especially for community library collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated espionage/spy novel fans that "Special Envoy" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.72).

Alone on the Shield
Kirk Landers
Academy Chicago Publishers
c/o Chicago Review Press
814 North Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
www.chicagoreviewpress.com
9781613739914, $15.99, PB, 384pp, www.amazon.com

'I hope you get drafted and you go to Vietnam and you get shot and you die there!' Those words, spoken in the anger of youth, marked the end of the torrid 1960s college romance of Annette DuBose and Gabe Pender. She would marry a fellow antiwar activist and end up immigrating to Canada. He would fight in Vietnam and come home to build an American Dream kind of life. Forty years later, they have reconnected and discovered a shared passion: solo canoeing in Ontario's raw Quetico wilderness. They decide to meet again to catch up on old times, not in a cafe but on Annette's favorite island deep in the Quetico wilds. Though they try to control their expectations for their rendezvous, they both approach the island with a growing realization of the emotional void in their lives and wonder how different everything might have been if they had stayed together. They must overcome challenges just to reach the island. Then they encounter the greatest challenge of all -- each other. Kirk Landers' "Alone on the Shield" is an extraordinarily crafted novel by an author with a genuine flair for originality and memorable characters that engage the reader's fascinated attention from beginning to end. Very highly recommended, especially for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Alone on the Shield" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Impossible Saints
Clarissa Harwood
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10004
www.pegasusbooks.com
9781681776248, $25.95, HC, 304pp, www.amazon.com

Escaping the constraints of life as a village schoolmistress, Lilia Brooke bursts into London and into Paul Harris's orderly life, shattering his belief that women are gentle creatures who need protection. Lilia wants to change women's lives by advocating for the vote, free unions, and contraception. Paul, an Anglican priest, has a big ambition of his own: to become the youngest dean of St. John's Cathedral. Lilia doesn't believe in God, but she's attracted to Paul's intellect, ethics, and dazzling smile. As Lilia finds her calling in the militant Women's Social and Political Union, Paul is increasingly driven to rise in the church. They can't deny their attraction, but they know they don't belong in each other's worlds. Lilia would rather destroy property and serve time in prison than see her spirit destroyed and imprisoned by marriage to a clergyman, while Paul wants nothing more than to settle down and keep Lilia out of harm's way. Paul and Lilia must reach their breaking points before they can decide whether their love is worth fighting for. A simply riveting read from cover to cover, "Impossible Saints" by Clarissa Harwood is an original and consistently entertaining, narrative driven novel by a writer with a genuine flair for both originality and deftly crafted characters. While highly recommended, especially for community library General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Impossible Saints" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Lies Jane Austen Told Me
Julie Wright
Shadow Mountain Publishing
P.O. Box 30178, Salt Lake City, Utah 84130-0178
www.shadowmountain.com
9781629723426, $15.99, PB, 320pp, www.amazon.com

Ever since Emma read Pride and Prejudice, she's been in love with Mr. Darcy and has regarded Jane Austen as the expert on all things romantic. So naturally when Emma falls for Blake Hampton and he invites her home to meet his parents, she is positive an engagement is in her future. After all, Blake is a single man in possession of a good fortune, and thus must be in want of a wife. But when it turns out that what Blake actually wants is more of a hook-up than a honeymoon, Emma is hurt, betrayed, and furious. She throws herself deeper into her work as CMO of Kinetics, the fastest growing gym franchise in the nation. She loves her work, and she's good at it, which is why she bristles when her boss brings in a consultant to help her spearhead the new facilities on the East Coast. Her frustration turns to shock when that consultant turns out to be Blake's younger brother, Lucas. Emma is determined not to fall for Lucas, but as she gets to know him, she realizes that Lucas is nothing like his brother. He is kind and attentive and spends his time and money caring for the less fortunate. What she can't understand is why Lucas continues to try to push her back into Blake's arms when he so clearly has fallen as hard for her as she has fallen for him. Realizing that her love life is as complicated as anything Jane Austen could have dreamed up, Emma must find a way to let Blake know that it's time for him to let her go and to let Lucas know it's time for him to love her back. A true master of the Contemporary Romance genre, Julie Wright's newest novel, "Lies Jan Austen Told Me" is an especially recommended addition to community library collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated romance novel fans that "Lies Jane Austen Told Me" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.79) and as complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781538487976, $34.95, CD).

Come Home
Patricia Gussin
Oceanview Publishing
1620 Main Street, Suite 11, Sarasota, FL 34236
www.oceanviewpub.com
9781608092598, $26.95, HC, 352pp, www.amazon.com

Nicole Nelson and Ahmed Masud are a dynamic, highly successful Philadelphia couple. They are partners in a thriving plastic surgery practice, are very much in love, and they adore their young son, Alex. But cracks are beginning to appear in their fairy-tale life: lingering post-9/11 prejudice against Arab men, accumulating malpractice lawsuits for Ahmed, and most recently, pressure from Ahmed's wealthy family in Cairo for him to permanently return to Egypt permanently -- with his son. The Masud family pressure becomes a demand as the Hosni Mubarak regime is seriously threatened by protestors in Egypt. Ahmed's family owes their control of the Egyptian cotton empire directly to Mubarak cronyism. If Mubarak goes down, the Masuds will surely lose their wealth, maybe even their lives. They need Ahmed back in Egypt to implement their plan to move their fortune and family out of Egypt and into South America. Ahmed must make a decision -- stay with Nicole in America or obey his father. And what about their son? Tragic consequences, which Ahmed could have never foreseen, propel both the Masud family and the Nelson family on a path toward unspeakable tragedy. Patricia Gussin's "Come Home" is a superbly crafted novel by gifted author with a genuine flair for narrative driven characters that provides a simply riveting read from cover to cover. While especially recommended for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Come Home" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Vanishing Point
Lisa Harris
Revell
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 East Fulton, Ada, MI 49301
www.bakerbooks.com
9780800729769, $29.99, HC, 320pp, www.amazon.com

Detective Garrett Addison and FBI Agent Jordan Lambert team up to find a serial killer before he strikes again, but what if everything that was believed to be true about the Angel Abductor is false? Author Lisa Harris' "Vanishing Point" is another superbly crafted read from a novelist with a genuine flair for originality and an impressive talent for narrative driven storytelling. A master of the genre, Lisa Harris' "Vanishing Point" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to community library suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of Lisa Harris fans that "Vanishing Point" is also available in a paperback edition (9780800728489, $15.99), in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Recorded Books, B0779HJC3C, $20.95, Audible).

The Last Man in Tehran
Mark Henshaw
Touchstone Books
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
9781501161261, $24.99, HC, 336pp, www.amazon.com

New Red Cell Chief Kyra Stryker has barely settled into the job when an attack on an Israeli port throws the Middle East into chaos. Israel's feared intelligence service The Mossad responds with a campaign of covert sabotage and assassination, determined to protect the homeland. But evidence quickly turns up suggesting that a group of moles inside Langley are helping Mossad wage its covert war. Convinced that Mossad has heavily penetrated the CIA's leadership, the FBI launches a counterintelligence investigation that threatens to cripple the Agency -- and anyone who questions the official story is suspect. With few officials willing to help for fear of getting accused, Kyra turns to her former mentors (the now-retired Red Cell Chief Jonathan Burke and his wife, former CIA Director Kathryn Cooke) to help uncover who is trying to tear the CIA apart from the inside out. An absolutely fascinating read from cover to cover, it is interesting to note that Mark Henshaw, the author of "The Last Man in Tehran" is himself a decorated CIA analyst and apparently is quite deft at drawing upon his own years of experience and expertise to craft a truly riveting novel of international espionage. While very highly recommended, especially for community library fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Last Man in Tehran" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and in a complete and unabridged audio book edition (Simon & Schuster Audio, B077H4K31R, $19.84, Audible, 9 hours 24 minutes).

Insurrection at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Rob Tenery
Brown Books Publishing Group
16250 Knoll Trail Drive, Suite 205, Dallas, TX 75248-2871
www.brownbooks.com
9781612549460, $16.95, PB, 396pp, www.amazon.com

As political unrest mounts and tensions simmer, countries across the globe begin plotting to take America down from within. Military might, information technology, and access to oil are the leverage by which the world powers gain their footholds. Although the United States has held on to their predominant rule, other countries are getting restless and beginning to make plans that will establish a new world order. Important political figures start dropping like flies with no explanation for cause of death. In the middle of the action sits the President himself, surrounded by a swarm of security and a staff that he no longer trusts. When a threat to national security ripples through the White House, the few left standing must make decisions that could tear apart the very fabric of American values. Although a work of fiction, Rob Tenery's suspense novel, "Insurrection at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue" is all the more engaging given the current 'real world' status of American politics at the national and international level. A deftly crafted and gripping read from beginning to end, "Insurrection at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue" is very highly recommended, especially for community library General Fiction collections.

The Moscow Code
Nick Wilkshire
The Dundurn Group
3 Church Street, Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5E 1M2
www.dundurn.com
9781459737143, $15.99, PB, 296pp, www.amazon.com

Ottawa bureaucrat - turned-diplomat Charlie Hillier is back from his adventures in "Escape to Havana". Having barely survived his first posting in Havana, Charlie is eager to put what he learned there to good use. And it isn't long before he's thrust into a fresh case -- a technical writer from Toronto in a Moscow jail on dubious drug charges. Charlie has barely put a dent in the brick wall that is the Russian legal system when the jailed man turns up dead, the official explanation: suicide. And just when evidence to the contrary is discovered, the body is "accidentally" cremated by the authorities. Undeterred by bureaucratic stonewalling and determined to help the victim's sister get to the bottom of her brother's death, Charlie follows the sparse clues available. But what he uncovers brings them both far too close to powers more dangerous than they could have imagined. Suddenly, getting at the truth is less important than getting out of Russia in one piece. Another riveting novel from author Nick Wilkshire, "The Moscow Code" is decidedly an unreservedly recommended. Certain to be an enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Moscow Code" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.38).

Written in Blood
Layton Green
Seventh Street Books
c/o Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228
www.prometheusbooks.com
9781633883611, $15.95, PB, 335pp, www.amazon.com

Detective Joe "Preach" Everson, a prison chaplain turned police officer, is coming home. After a decade tracking down killers in Atlanta, and with a reputation as one of the finest homicide detectives in the city, his career derailed when he suffered a mental breakdown during the investigation of a serial killer who was targeting children. No sooner does Preach arrive at home in Creekville, North Carolina (a bohemian community near Chapel Hill) than a local bookstore owner is brutally killed, the first murder in a decade. The only officer with homicide experience, Preach is assigned to the case and makes a shocking discovery: the bookstore owner has been murdered in exactly the same manner as the pawnbroker in Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment". With the help of Ariana Hale, a law student and bibliophile who knew the victim, Preach investigates the local writer's community. As their questions increase, a second body is found, this time eerily resembling the crime scene in a famous Edgar Allan Poe novella. Preach and Ariana realize that their adversary is an intelligent, literate killer with a mind as devious as it is disturbed -- and that one or both of them may be his next target. A terrifically entertaining read from cover to cover, "Written in Blood" clearly reveals author Layton Green's total master of the genre and his deftly executed novel will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "Written in Blood" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Fractured Justice
James A. Ardaiz
Pace Press
c/o Linden Publishing
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721-9875
www.woodworkerslibrary.com
9781610352987, $16.95, PB, 380pp, www.amazon.com

When investigators are called to a meticulously staged crime scene on a canal bank in rural Central California (the latest in a series of murders that have killed three young women in one month) they realize a dangerous serial killer is on the loose, someone who is highly adept at hiding his tracks. And before the murderer can be brought to justice, young assistant DA Matt Jamison will lose his illusions about what justice means. As a fourth victim is abducted and investigators race against time, Jamison must cope with a sophisticated and elusive killer, a politically-minded sheriff eager to claim credit and spread blame, mounting pressure to win a high-profile trial, and his own conscience as part of the machinery of justice. Author James A. Ardaiz is a former prosecutor, judge, and Presiding Justice of the California Fifth District Court of Appeal and draws upon his years of professional experience and expertise to bring an element of authenticity to his gripping, fast-paced, and coldly realistic thriller that tracks a killer from the crime scene to the courtroom and to a devastating aftermath, Decidedly and unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Fractured Justice" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Circus Train Conspiracy
Edward Marston
Allison and Busby
c/o Casemate
1940 Lawrence Road, Havertown, PA 19083
www.casematepublishers.com
9780749021276, $25.00, HC, 352pp, www.amazon.com

Following a string of successful performances, the Moscardi Circus is traveling by train to Newcastle for their next show. Yet a collision on the track with a couple of sleepers causes pandemonium: passengers thrown about and animals escaping into the night. When the body of a woman is discovered in nearby woodland, Inspector Colbeck is desperate to lend assistance, believing the two incidents might be connected. Who is the nameless woman and who is targeting the Moscardi's Magnificent Circus? A beautifully crafted and engagingly entertaining read from cover to cover, "The Circus Train Conspiracy" is a compelling mystery by a master of the genre and showcases author Edward Marston's genuine flair as a novelist for narrative driven. suspenseful storytelling. While an especially recommended addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "The Circus Train Conspiracy" is also available in a paperback edition (9780749021375, $12.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Trespass
Anthony J. Quinn
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10004
www.pegasusbooks.com
9781681775500, $25.95, HC, 336pp, www.amazon.com

Detective Celcius Daly is investigating the abduction of a boy by a group of travelers already under investigation for smuggling and organized crime. As he digs into the child's background, he discovers a family secret linked to an unsolved crime during The Troubles - the disappearance of a young woman and her baby. Daly's investigation shakes loose some harrowing truths about the lawlessness of Northern Ireland's border country. Undergoing an internal investigation over his handling of the search for IRA spy Daniel Hegarty, Daly soon finds himself entangled in a vigilante mission, discovering just how far a group of outsiders will go to find their own justice. A deftly crafted and inherently riveting read from cover to cover, "Trespass" is another narrative driven mystery by a master of the genre and unreservedly recommended, especially for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "Trespass" (an Inspector Celcius Daly Mystery) is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

The Persian Always Meows Twice
Eileen Watkins
Kensington Publishing Corp.
119 West 40th Street, Floor 21, New York, NY 10018-2522
www.kensingtonbooks.com
9781496710567, $15.00, PB, 304pp, www.amazon.com

Professional cat grooming isn't all fluff, so when the fur starts flying, Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie's Comfy Cats, handles her feistiest four-legged clients with a caring touch and nerves of steel. While these qualities certainly help keep her business purring, they also come in handy when she makes a house call to her best client, millionaire George DeLeuw, and discovers his murdered body next to his newly orphaned Persian, Harpo. To help the local police find the actual killer, Cassie begins her own investigation. But no one, from George's housekeeper to his vindictive ex-wife, is giving up clues. Not until Cassie is given permission to temporarily board Harpo does anyone show interest in the Persian's wellbeing. Someone is desperate to get their paws on Harpo before the feline helps untangle a felony. Are there deadly truths that a cat whisperer like Cassie can coax out? She needs to tread lightly and remember she gets one life, not nine. A thoroughly entertaining read from cover to cover, "The Persian Always Meows Twice" showcases author Eileen Watkins as a master of the genre and having a genuine flair for originality and narrative driven storytelling of the first order. While "The Persian Always Meows Twice" will prove to be an extraordinary and popular addition to Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "The Persian Always Meows Twice" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Darkness, Sing Me a Song
David Housewright
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250094476, $25.99, HC, 288pp, www.amazon.com

Holland Taylor is a PI who does simple background checks and other mostly unchallenging cases. Still wounded by the long-ago death of his wife and daughter, and newly mourning a recently failed relationship, Taylor doesn't have much interest in more challenging work. But almost by accident, he finds himself in the middle of the crime of the century. Eleanor Barrington, the doyenne of a socially prominent family of great wealth, has been arrested for the murder of Emily Denys, her son's fiancee. Barrington made no secret of her disdain for the victim, convinced that she was trying to take advantage of her son and her family. Taylor had been brought in to do a full background check on Emily, only to discover that both her name and her background were fabricated. Before he could learn more, she was murdered -- shot in the head outside her apartment. Barrington had been overheard threatening to kill her son's fiance and an eyewitness claims to have seen her kill Emily. But that's not the worst of it. Barrington's own son has even worse accusations to make against her. Caught in the dark tangle of a twisted family and haunted by his own past, Taylor finds that the truth is both elusive and dangerous. The fourth novel in author David Housewright's outstanding 'Holland Taylor' series, "Darkness, Sing Me a Song" is another perfectly crafted gem of a story replete with unexpected twists and turns ultimately leading to a dramatic conclusion. While "Darkness, Sing Me a Song" is unreservedly recommended, especially for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that it is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).

Mining for Justice
Kathleen Ernst
Midnight Ink
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125-2989
www.midnightinkbooks.com
9780738753348, $15.99, PB, 384pp, www.amazon.com

Chloe Ellefson is excited to be learning about Wisconsin's Cornish immigrants and mining history while on temporary assignment at Pendarvis, a historic site in charming Mineral Point. But when her boyfriend, police officer Roelke McKenna, discovers long-buried human remains in the root cellar of an old Cornish cottage, Chloe reluctantly agrees to mine the historical record for answers. She soon finds herself in the middle of a heated and deadly controversy that threatens to close Pendarvis. While struggling to help the historic site, Chloe must unearth dark secrets, past and present, before a killer comes to bury her. A simply riveting read from cover to cover, "Mining for Justice" is the newest addition to author Kathleen Ernst's series of superbly crafted Chloe Ellefson mystery novels. A true master of the genre, "Mining for Justice" is original, extraordinary, and entertaining, making it unreservedly and enthusiastically recommended, especially for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mining for Justice" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.59) while librarians should be aware that there is a large print edition (Thorndike Press, 9781432846718, $30.99).

Three Drops of Blood and a Cloud of Cocaine
Quentin Mouron
Bitter Lemon Press
www.bitterlemonpress.com
9781908524836, $14.95, PB, 232pp, www.amazon.com

When old Jimmy Henderson is found murdered in his Ford pick-up truck in a suburb of Boston, Sheriff Paul McCarthy takes charge of the investigation. Soon, Franck, a young private detective visiting from New York, also takes an interest in the case. Sheriff McCarthy, a church-going man, desperately trying to keep a boundary between the sordidness of his investigations and his private life. And Franck, a violent, decadent dandy, always rushing to the bathroom for another line of coke, revealing the darker workings of the case with a blood curdling laugh. When the two men finally meet the entire existence of the sheriff as a righteous family man (and probably as a police officer) will be turned on its head. Author Quentin Mouron's debut as a crime novel author, "Three Drops of Blood and a Cloud of Cocaine" is a darkly humorous literary and psychological mystery set in a Boston still suffering from the consequences of the financial crisis. Breaking the conventions of the crime novel genre, "Three Drops of Blood and a Cloud of Cocaine" holds a satirical mirror to our society by entering the minds of two men right on the edge of sanity. A unique, entertaining, and compelling read from cover to cover, "Three Drops of Blood and a Cloud of Cocaine" is unreservedly recommended, especially for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Three Drops of Blood and a Cloud of Cocaine" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Much Ado About Murder
Elizabeth J. Duncan
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781683313250, $26.99, HC, 264pp, www.amazon.com

Costume designer Charlotte Fairfax has another murder on her hands as she prepares for the latest performance of the Catskills Shakespeare Theater Company, Much Ado About Nothing. The company's steady growth enables them to cast star British actress Audrey Ashley, who arrives on scene to play the lead role of Beatrice. But things immediately get more complicated when Audrey insists the company replace the current director with new, up and coming British director Edmund Albright. Edmund plans to change the popular romantic comedy, which alienates several people associated with the production. And the list of people he upsets only grows: the laid off former director, the hotel owner's secretary, and even Audrey herself. Just as Edmund's plans are about to come to fruition, his body is discovered on his sofa, holding a gun in his hand. His death is quickly ruled a suicide but Charlotte thinks otherwise. Why would Edmund, on the brink of greatness, kill himself? And in such an American way? With a whole cast of characters to investigate, Charlotte is determined to unmask each one before it's final curtain call on the whole production. The third and newest addition to author Elizabeth J. Duncan's simply outstanding 'Shakespeare in the Catskills Mysteries' series, "Much Ado About Murder" is a 'must read' for all dedicated mystery buffs and would be an enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Much Ado About Murder" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Roma Plot
Mario Bolduc
The Dundurn Group
3 Church Street, Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5E 1M2
www.dundurn.com
9781459736061, $17.99, PB, 472pp, www.amazon.com

Max O'Brien may be a professional con man, but that doesn't mean you can't count on him in a bind. So when he hears that his old friend Kevin Dandurand is a wanted man over a seemingly racially motivated killing spree, he heads to Bucharest to try to make sense of what looks like an impossible situation. The buried truths he uncovers reach back to the Second World War, the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, and an entanglement between a Roma man and a German woman whose echoes pursue O'Brien and Dandurand into the present day. But if they can't escape the long shadows of the past, the two will find their present cut all too short. A deftly crafted and riveting read from first page to last, "The Roma Plot" reveals author Mario Bolduc as a gifted novelist with a genuine flair for narrative driven storytelling that offers the reader a consistently entertaining and unpredictable plot of unexpected twists and turns. While unreservedly recommended, especially for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "The Roma Plot" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Monday Starts on Saturday
Arkady & Boris Strugatsky, authors
Andrew Bromfield, translator
Chicago Review Press
814 North Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
www.chicagoreviewpress.com
9781613739235, $15.99, PB, 304pp, www.amazon.com

Sasha is a young computer programmer from Leningrad. While driving through the forests of Northwest Russia to meet up with some friends for a nature vacation he picks up a couple of local hitchhikers, who persuade him to come work with them at the National Institute for the Technology of Witchcraft and Thaumaturgy, or NITWiT. The adventures Sasha has in the largely dysfunctional Institute involve all sorts of magical beings and devices including a wish-granting fish, a talking cat who can remember only the beginnings of stories, a sofa that translates fairy tales into reality, a motorcycle that can zoom into the imagined future, a hungry dog-size mosquito -- along with a variety of wizards (including Merlin), vampires, and petty bureaucrats. First published in Russia in 1964, and now deftly translated into English by Andrew Bromfield for an American readership, "Monday Starts on Saturday" has become the most popular Arkady & Boris Strugatsky novel in their native homeland. By turns wildly imaginative, hilarious, and disturbing, "Monday Starts on Saturday" is a comic masterpiece by two of the world's greatest science fiction writers. While especially recommended for community and academic library Contemporary Science Fiction & Fantasy collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of science fiction fans that "Monday Starts on Saturday" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781538459812, $29.95, MP3 CD).

Renegades
Thomas Locke
Revell
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 East Fulton, Ada, MI 49301
www.bakerbooks.com
9780800729776, $25.99, HC, 288pp, www.amazon.com

When twins Sean and Dillon Kirrell use their transit abilities to rescue a kidnap victim, they cross a clandestine group within their government who seeks to control all planets with their transit powers, forcing the brothers to choose sides in what could explode into full-blown war. Thomas Locke is a pseudonym for Davis Bunn, an award-winning novelist. "Renegades" is another of his deftly crafted and consistently entertaining novels that takes the reader on a gripping science fiction action/adventure of the first order. The second volume of the outstanding 'Recruits' series, "Renegades" is an especially recommended addition to community library Science Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated science fiction fans that "Renegades" is also available in a paperback edition (9780800727901, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.74).


The Railroading Shelf

The Privatisation Classes
David Cable
Pen & Sword Books
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781473864375, $60.00, HC, 264pp, www.amazon.com

"The Privatisation Classes: A Pictorial Survey of Diesel and Electric Locomotives and Units since 1994" is a unique and very special album of captioned full color photographs taken by David Cable who is a well-regarded author of several books covering trains throughout much of the world. "The Privatisation Classes" looks at the types of locomotives and multiple units that have been introduced into the UK since 1994, when the government privatized British Rail into a series of privately operated franchises. An incredible forty-one classes have been, or are shortly to be introduced, the majority being passenger units. "The Privatisation Classes" shows these classes in a variety of color schemes adopted by the franchisees. The photographs comprising "The Privatisation Classes" are, in the main, taken in the South East of England, which is where the great majority of these new trains operate, with the surroundings being given as much prominence as possible. A wonderfully entertaining and impressively informative browse from cover to cover, "The Privatisation Classes" is a 'must' for the personal collections of dedicated railroading buffs, and will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to both community and academic library Railroading History collections and supplemental studies reading lists.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

The Awakened Dreamer
Kala Ambrose
Llewellyn Publications
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125
www.llewellyn.com
9780738753119, $15.99, PB, 240pp, www.amazon.com

Dreams can be an important part of decision-making, relationships, and problem-solving -- if they are properly interpreted and applied to our waking life. "The Awakened Dreamer: How to Remember & Interpret Your Dreams" by Kala Ambrose is an easy-to-use instructional guide and manual that shows how to strengthen the connection between our conscious and unconscious self, helping us achieve our goals and discover valuable insights. "The Awakened Dreamer" explores dreams and sleep phenomena of all kinds, including: Recurring Dreams; Prophetic Dreams; Teaching Dreams; Visitation Dreams; Lucid Dreams; Nightmare's; Daydreams; Sleep Walking; Sleep Talking. "The Awakened Dreamer" also provides approachable exercises, guided meditations, example dreams, and instructions for creating a personalized symbol guide. Additionally, "The Awakened Dreamer" teaches how to combine daydreams with powerful visualizations that can be channeled into nightly dreams, allowing dreamers to manifest their desires into reality. An extraordinary and deftly written instructional, "The Awakened Dreamer" is highly recommended for personal, professional, community, and academic library Metaphysical Studies collections in general, and Dream Interpretation supplemental studies reading lists in particular. It should be noted for students, practitioners, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Awakened Dreamer" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Ghosts of the Civil War
Rich Newman
Llewellyn Publications
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125
www.llewellyn.com
9780738753362, $15.99, PB, 336pp, www.amazon.com

The American Civil War left behind unforgettable stories of brave soldiers, heartbroken families, violent battles, as well as a paranormal legacy that continues to fascinate and unnerve us more than 150 years after the war ended. In "Ghosts of the Civil War: Exploring the Paranormal History of America's Deadliest War" experienced paranormal investigator Rich Newman deftly presents over 160 different locations with reported supernatural activity related to the Civil War. In the pages of "Ghosts of the Civil War" readers will explore major battlefields, smaller skirmishes, forts, cemeteries, homes, and historic buildings teeming with ghosts. Readers will discover the rich history of these Civil War locations and why so many souls linger long after death. Featuring terrifying, heartbreaking, and captivating ghost stories, "Ghosts of the Civil War" uncovers the supernatural secrets of America's deadliest war. An absolute 'must read' for dedicated metaphysical studies students, and of particular interest to Civil War buffs, "Ghosts of the Civil War" is unreservedly recommended for both community and academic library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Ghosts of the Civil War" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Medicine Wheel Plain & Simple
Deborah Durbin
Hampton Roads Publishing Company
65 Parker St., Ste. 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
www.hrpub.com
9781571747839, $14.95, PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com

Like their Western and Chinese counterparts, Native Americans developed an astrological system for understanding the world and envisioning harmony in the universe. Based on animals and clans and including corresponding trees, stones, and colors, the medicine wheel is broken into 12 moons similar to the 12 signs in Western astrology. In fascinating detail and with illustrations throughout, this new entry in the simply outstanding 'Plain & Simple' series explores an exciting and little-known aspect of Native American culture. In addition to analyses of all the signs, symbols, and seasonal associations, there are illuminating charts, explanations of the medicine wheel, and practical ideas for using Native American astrology as an oracle. "Medicine Wheel Plain & Simple" is a book for anyone who is fascinated by Native American legend and lore. While very highly recommended for both community and academic library Metaphysical Studies and Native American Studies collections, it should be note for the personal reading lists of students, academics, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Medicine Wheel Plain & Simple" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.30).

The Elements of Parapsychology
K. Ramakrishna Rao
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
www.mcfarlandpub.com
9781476671222, $35.00, PB, 337pp, www.amazon.com

Psychic phenomena, recorded throughout human history, remained a mystery or a matter of faith rather than a subject of serious study until scientists began to investigate them roughly a century and a half ago. Systematic experimentation began with the work of J.B. Rhine at Duke University, resulting in the publication of Extra-Sensory Perception (1934) followed by Extra-Sensory Perception After Sixty Years (1940). Rhine and researchers who came after him struggled to present sufficient evidence to gain scientific credibility for the existence of extrasensory abilities. Yet despite tight experimental controls and numerous significant results the subject remains controversial. Parapsychologists argue that the impasse is not due to a lack of evidence but to the challenge their claims pose to the worldview of science in general. "The Elements of Parapsychology" by Professor K. Ramakrishna Rao (who is a philosopher and psychologist with expertise in Indian psychology, consciousness studies and parapsychological research; has published nearly 200 research papers and 15 books; served as the executive director of the Foundation for Research on the Nature of Man; was the founder, head and professor of the Department of Psychology and Parapsychology; and vice-chancellor, Andhra University; and is currently president of the Asian Congress of Philosophy) offers comprehensive overview of the discipline of parapsychology and presents a full understanding of both its concepts, theories and methods, and its controversies, problems and prospects. A seminal and impressively presented study from beginning to end, "The Elements of Parapsychology" must be considered a core and fundamental addition to both community and academic library Metaphysical Science collections and supplemental studies reading lists. It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Elements of Parapsychology" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.99).


The Automotive Shelf

Ford Big-Block Parts Interchange
George Reid
CarTech Inc.
838 Lake Street South, Forest Lake, MN 55025
www.cartechbooks.com
9781613253441, $26.95, PB, 144pp, www.amazon.com

Ford was somewhat unique among Detroit manufacturers in that it had two very different big-block engine designs during the muscle car era. The FE engine was a design pioneered in the late 1950s, primarily as a more powerful replacement for the dated Y-block design because cars were becoming bigger and heavier, and therefore, necessitated more power to move. What started as torquey engines meant to move heavyweight sedans morphed into screaming high-performance mills that won Le Mans and drag racing championships through the 1960s. By the late 1960s, the design was dated, so Ford replaced the FE design with the "385" series, also known as the "Lima" design, which was more similar to the canted-valve Cleveland design being pioneered at the same time. It didn't share the 1960s pedigree of racing success, but the new design was better in almost every way; it exists via Ford motorsports offerings to this day. In "Ford Big-Block Parts Interchange", George Reid (a Ford enthusiast for more than 30 years who enjoys restoring and building Fords) covers these engines completely. Interchange and availability for all engine components are covered including cranks, rods, pistons, camshafts, engine blocks, intake and exhaust manifolds, carburetors, distributors, and more. Expanding from the previous edition of High-Performance Ford Parts Interchange that covered both small- and big-block engines in one profusely illustrated volume, "Ford Big-Block Parts Interchange" cuts out the small-block information and devotes every page to the MEL, FE and 385 series big-blocks from Ford, which allows for more complete and extensive coverage. Absolutely recommended for personal, professional, community, and technical college Automotive instructional reference collections. It should be noted that "Ford Big-Block Parts Interchange" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $19.71).

BRM: A Mechanic's Tale, second edition
Dick Salmon
Veloce Publishing Ltd.
www.veloce.co.uk
9781787112278, $50.00, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

Now in a newly updated second edition, "BRM: A Mechanic's Tale" is the story of Dick Salmon, a man who was both a devoted fan and a loyal team member of British Racing Motors. Salmon saw and was involved in the repeated failures and humiliating times of the 1950s, through the gradual progress of winning minor races to Jo Bonnier winning the first World Championship Grand Prix in Holland in 1959. "BRM: A Mechanic's Tale" culminates in the ultimate honor in 1962, when, in East London, South Africa, as Graham Hill drove the BRM to victory to win both the drivers World Championship and the Constructors Championship for the BRM team, thereby making a considerable contribution to British motor racing history. Profusely illustrated with period photography and images throughout, "BRM: A Mechanic's Tale" is an inherently fascinating and impressively informative read from beginning to end. While very highly recommended for both community and academic library Automotive History collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "BRM: A Mechanic's Tale" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $37.99).

The Classic Car Adventure
Lance Cole
Pen & Sword Books
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781473896413, $34.95, HC, 224pp, www.amazon.com

"The Classic Car Adventure: Driving Through History on the Road to Nostalgia" by veteran automotive writer, designer and serial classic car owner, Lance Cole is specifically designed to be read as a companion book that can be read in full from beginning to end, or dipped into anywhere for a specific classic car fix. Old stories and new details are presented in the pages of "The Classic Car Adventure" and cover all eras of our cars. A compilation of Lance Cole's published and unpublished adventures and opinions about the design and the driving of some of the greatest cars in motoring history, "The Classic Car Adventure" ranges from 'vintagent' to 'modern classic', pristine to oily-rag, up hill, down dale and across continents, charting the great classic car enthusiasm in a series of engaging essays about cars, car design and the men that made the motor industry. From tales of Malcolm Sayer to Bedelia, and of BMW, Jaguar, Bugatti and Porsche, to tales of old Saabs and rusty Citroens, "The Classic Car Adventure" will prove to be an informed and informative as, thoughtful and thought-provoking, insightful and entertaining read from cover to cover. While very highly recommended, especially for community and academic library Automotive Studies collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated classic car buffs that "The Classic Car Adventure" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $20.97).


The Christian Studies Shelf

Living Wisely with the Church Fathers
Christopher A. Hall
IVP Academic
c/o InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1426
www.ivpress.com
9780830851881, $24.00, PB, 276pp, www.amazon.com

The first centuries of Christianity may be quite foreign to 21st century Christians, but the writings arising out of that ancient era hold a treasury of wisdom for members of Christian communities today. Early Christians struggled and flourished in a culture that was in love with empire and military power, infatuated with sex and entertainment, tolerant of all gods but hostile to the One. And from this crucible of discipleship they extracted lessons of virtue, faithfulness, and joy in Christ. In "Living Wisely with the Church Fathers", Christopher Hall (Director of Renovare Institute of Christian Spiritual Formation, and the Associate Editor of the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture) takes us to this distant time, where he interviews Christian leaders around the ancient Mediterranean world, inquiring how to live a good life as a Christ follower. The menu of topics wends its way through wealth and poverty, war and violence, marriage and sexuality, theater and the arena, as well as the harsh realities of persecution and martyrdom. Gathering around Basil or Chrysostom or Augustine, we are instructed anew in the way of discipleship. And as they grapple with issues surprisingly resonant with our own, this cloud of ancient witnesses both surprises and challenges us in the life of faith. A uniquely informed and informative approach, "Living Wisely with the Church Fathers" is an inherently fascinating read from cover to cover, and very highly recommended for community, seminary, and academic library Christian Theology/History collections and supplemental studies lists. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Living Wisely with the Church Fathers" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.18).

Our Common Home
Michael O'Neill McGrath
World Library Publications
3708 River Road, Suite 400, Franklin Park, IL 60131-2158
www.wlpmusic.com
9781584598626, $20.00, PB, 95pp, www.amazon.com

While reading Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si', artist and author Brother Michael O' Neill McGrath was literally inspired to grab stylus in hand and embark on a creative drawing journey that lead him to illustrate some of the pope's most inspirational writings. Most of the art in "Our Common Home" is digital, while some images were taken from Mickey's ever-present sketchbook, all of them highlighted by the impassioned, uplifting, and challenging quotations from Pope Francis. These vivid illustrations help the reader discover and remember the pope's instructional words of wisdom as he speaks of the God-given gifts that surround us, and how we have been mandated to care for creation with all of its beauty and inspiration. "Our Common Home" invites us to slow down, look around, and remember that all around us has been granted to us and is in our care. It coaxes us to take the time to find some quiet respite from the frantic pace of the world in which we live and ponder what we might do to safeguard that which has been given us to care for His creation -- planet Earth. Inspired and inspiring, "Our Common Home" is decidedly and unreservedly recommended, especially in the era of struggling with the causes and effects of Climate Change.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know about God (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Eric Metaxes
WaterBrook Press
c/o Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group
10807 New Allegiance Drive Suite 500, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com
9781400071012, $18.99, PB, 240pp, www.amazon.com

We all have questions about God? But where can we go to get answers? In addition to the Bible, one highly recommended source for all members of the Christian community is "Everything You Always Wanted to Know about God (But Were Afraid to Ask)" by Eric Metaxas. Totally conversational in form and format (and sometimes flat-out hilarious), Erik takes on such questions as: How can a good God create a world that has evil and suffering?; Is God anti-sex?; Doesn't science make God obsolete?; What's the real story on miracles?; If God is everywhere, why go to church?; Don't we already have God within us?; Isn't God too busy running the universe to care about the details of my day?. These questions (and a great many more) get no-nonsense answers that don't hide behind dull theological language. Inspired and inspiring, informed and informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking, timely and timeless, "Everything You Always Wanted to Know about God (But Were Afraid to Ask)" is an extraordinary read from cover to cover and should be a part of ever community, church, and academic library Christian Studies collection. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Everything You Always Wanted to Know about God (But Were Afraid to Ask)" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

How Then Shall We Live?
Samuel Wells
Canterbury Press Norwich
c/o Church Publishing Incorporated
445 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016
www.churchpublishing.org
9781848258624, $27.00, PB, 208pp, www.amazon.com

The secular world constantly throws up new challenges about what it means to be Christian and to live a distinctively Christian lifestyle. In "How Then Shall We Live?: Christian Engagement With Contemporary Issues", the priest, broadcaster, writer and ethicist Samuel Wells considers some of the biggest contemporary political, social and moral challenges and grapples with them in the light of Christian hope and wisdom. Under three headings (Engaging the World, Being Human, and Facing Mortality) Wells probes a wide range of issues including the rise of religious extremism, migration, ecology, social media, sexual identities, inequality, obesity, life stages from childhood to old age, dementia, facing death and much more. This striking and profoundly wise study deftly sets out to shape a theological imagination and fluency that is grounded in the reality of being human in a suffering world and yet open to transformation by the life and wisdom of God. Informative, thought-provoking, inspired and inspiring, "How Then Shall We Live?: Christian Engagement With Contemporary Issues" is an extraordinary read and one that is decidedly and unreservedly recommended for all members of the Christian community regardless of denominational affiliations. While a critically important addition to community and academic library Contemporary Christian Studies collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "How Then Shall We Live?: Christian Engagement With Contemporary Sssues" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God
Mark Batterson
Multnomah Books
c/o Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group
12265 Oracle Blvd., Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com
9780735291089, $21.99, HC, 224pp, www.amazon.com

The underlying message of "Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God" by Mark Batterson is that God's voice is often spoken in a whisper. Not to make it difficult to hear Him, but to draw us close. Many people have a tough time believing God still speaks. Mark Batterson certainly believes so, and as a result seeks to introduce his readers to the seven love languages of God; each of them unique and entirely divine. By learning to tune in to and decipher each language, readers will become able to hear His guidance in simple as well as life-altering choices. God is actively speaking through: Scripture, Desires, Doors, Dreams, People, Promptings, and Pain. "Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God" provides the tools needed to unlock each of these languages. Exceptionally well reasoned, written, organized and presented, "Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God" is one of those inspired and inspiring books that will be referred to again and again and again. While unreservedly recommended for church, community, and academic library Contemporary Christian Studies collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Random House Audio, B076DYNRM2, $23.95, 7 Hours 16 Minutes).

Life in the Presence of God
Kenneth Boa
InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1426
www.ivpress.com
9780830845163, $17.00, PB, 266pp, www.amazon.com

As Christians we believe that God is everywhere and always with us. So why don't we experience his presence more? Life is full of distractions, and our 24/7 news cycles and social media drown out the voice of God. It's hard to discern God's presence amid the hubbub. But experiencing God is not just for the super-spiritual or ultra-mature. Every Christian can learn to cultivate a greater awareness of God in the everyday. In "Life in the Presence of God: Practices for Living in Light of Eternity" Ken Boa (an author, a speaker, and the president of Reflections Ministries) offers a contemporary guide to practicing the presence of God. Using biblical foundations, living and historical examples, and evidence from neuroscience, Ken reveals how we can walk with God and abide in his presence. We need to rethink how we use our time and technology to make room for God, to train ourselves with new habits that deepen our awareness of God. "Life in the Presence of God" offers not a magical technique but dozens of practical exercises and disciplines that help us draw close to God even in the midst of our cacophonous modern culture. Practicing God's presence is not just for the professionals. It's for ordinary people like us. And the more we live in God's presence, the greater our abiding peace and joy. An extraordinary instructional, "Life in the Presence of God" is an inspired and inspiring read that is especially commended to the attention of all members of the Christian community. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Life in the Presence of God" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.57) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Christian Audio, 9781545902349, $19.98, CD).

Heroism and Genius
William J. Slattery
Ignatius Press
PO Box 1339, Fort Collins, CO 80522
www.ignatius.com
9781621640141, $24.95, HC, 292pp, www.amazon.com

The genius of Roman Catholic Christianity was to draw elements from the cultures of the Jews, Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Germanic peoples in order to build a new and original civilization, one that would embody within its structures the New Testament based Christian vision of God and man, time and eternity. Its construction and maintenance, amid attrition and cultural earthquakes, is a saga spread over seventeen hundred years. Although Catholic priests do not hold a monopoly on the struggles or the achievements involved, nevertheless, from A.D. 300 to 1000, because they numbered so many men of heroism and genius in their ranks, and due to their leadership positions, they became the pioneers and irreplaceable builders of a new culture and Christian socio-political order. "Heroism and Genius: How Catholic Priests Helped Build - and Can Help Rebuild - Western Civilization" by William J. Slattery (who ordained priest in St. Peter's Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1991) presents some of these formidable men: Fathers of Western Culture, of free-enterprise economics, and of the institution of chivalry; leaders of nations, statesmen, and defiers of tyrants; music composers, pioneers of universal education, and architects of some of the world's loveliest buildings; and, enigmatically, the clandestine revolutionaries behind the explosion of the culture of romantic love bonded to Christian marriage whose aura still enchants the air of the West. A seminal work of impressively researched and written scholarship, "Heroism and Genius" is unreservedly recommended for community, seminary, and academic library Christian History collections and supplemental studies lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of clergy, students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Heroism and Genius" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.72).

Your Light Gives Us Hope
Anselm Grun
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568, Orleans, MA 02653
www.paracletepress.com
9781612619040, $16.99, PB, 112pp, www.amazon.com

In the pages of "Your Light Gives Us Hope: 24 Daily Practices for Advent", Anselm Grun ( a German Benedictine monk, Cellerar of Munsterschwarzach Abbey) offers a daily reader of very simple and often quite direct Advent reflections. Anselm Grun deftly shows the reader how to approach the festive season consciously, making it a blessed time for ourselves and our families. He draws on his own personal experience as a spiritual director to offer practices for personal devotion or for family prayer for each day of Advent. Also included are special reflections for the Sundays of the season. "Your Light Gives Us Hope" brings the spiritual wisdom of Anselm Grun to a new generation of American readers who are eager for a new voice for celebrating the Advent and Christmas season. While unreservedly recommended for all members of the Christian community, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Your Light Gives Us Hope" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Paul and His Team
Ryan Lokkesmoe
Moody Publishers
820 N. LaSalle Blvd., Chicago, IL 60610
www.moodypublishers.com
9780802415646, $13.99, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

Most Christians know something of the Apostle Paul's life and ministry, but what about the incredible team of influencers he assembled and mobilized? Who were they, and how did Paul lead this team to accomplish God's purposes? Even more, what can we learn from their successes and failures, and how can we imitate their qualities? These are the questions that inspired Ryan Lokkesmoe (the Lead Pastor of Real Hope Community Church in the Houston area) to write "Paul and His Team: What the Early Church Can Teach Us About Leadership and Influence". Like a church-ministry version of Team of Rivals, it reveals important principles about leadership and influence by showing how this early ministry team: Adapted to cultural, doctrinal, and interpersonal challenges; Found common ground with their audiences; Led baby believers toward maturity; Stayed united despite differing opinions; Equipped others for the work of the ministry; Conducted their lives with self-discipline; Built and maintained strategic partnerships; Navigated sensitive cross-cultural situations; Persisted through difficulty, frustration, and fractured relationships; Persevered when ministry was discouraging; Developed leaders to replace them. Extraordinarily well written, informed and informative, inspired and inspiring, "Paul and His Team" is unreservedly recommended for the personal reading lists of all members of the Christian community. It should be noted that "Paul and His Team" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.79) as well as a complete and unabridged audio book (Christian Audio, 9781545900598, $19.98, CD).

The Nexus: Understanding Faith and Modern Culture
Jon H. Widener, M.D.
Westbow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
www.westbowpress.com
9781512791334, $54.95, PB, 640pp, www.amazon.com

In "The Nexus: Understanding Faith and Modern Culture", retired orthopedic surgeon, evangelical and long-time Southern Baptist Sunday School teacher Jon Widener observes how Christianity has lost many battles over the years and how the evangelical community has been fraught with endemic anti-intellectualism. He sees an evangelical insularity taking the form of retreat and retrenchment from the comings and goings of the larger society. In "The Nexus" Dr. Widener proposes that modern Christian believers correct these deficits by exercising the exhortation of I Pet 3:15 (KJV) to always be prepared "to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you." Believers should educate themselves on culturally relevant issues where there are questions of Christian morality. This is the burden and purpose of "The Nexus". Accordingly, the standard for inclusion is straight-forward. If the topic is culturally encountered and has moral implications, then it meets the threshold standard for inclusion in the work. Impressively informed and informative, exceptionally thoughtful and thought-provoking, extraordinarily inspired and inspiring, "The Nexus: Understanding Faith and Modern Culture" is especially recommended for the personal reading lists of all members of the Christian community regardless of denominational affiliations.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Jewish South Florida
Paul M. Kaplan
Pelican Publishing Company
1000 Burmaster Street, Gretna, LA 70053-2246
www.pelicanpub.com
9781455622139, $24.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

"Jewish South Florida: A History and Guide to Neighborhoods, Synagogues, and Eateries" by biographer and historian Paul M. Kaplan offers the reader a rich history of the Jewish cultural tradition that lie beneath the surface of South Florida. Beyond the stereotype of elderly Jews visiting sunny beaches, Florida boasts a distinctively Jewish population. The area is inhabited by Ashkenazi Jews, Sephardic Jews with roots in Spain or Turkey, and those from Cuba and other Latin American countries. This cultural mingling makes the Jewish way of life in South Florida so unique, featuring synagogues and eateries from Boca Raton, Palm Beach, and Miami. More than simply a travel guide, "Jewish South Florida" approaches each profiled location as an opportunity to bring to light the culture of the Jews that have made South Florida their home. An impressively informed and informative study, "Jewish South Florida" is an extraordinary read and could well be utilized as a template for similar cultural history studies for other distinctive Jewish communities throughout the country. While unreservedly recommended for community and academic library American Judaic History collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Jewish South Florida" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $23.56).

The Haftorah of the Week
Ervin Landau
Urim Publications
c/o Lambda Publishers
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, New York 11225
www.UrimPublications.com
9789655241686, $26.95, HC, 376pp, www.amazon.com

Ervin Landau is a businessman who hosted a weekly haftorah show on Spectrum Radio, London's multi-ethnic radio station. In the pages of "The Haftorah of the Week: An Overview and Elucidation of the Haftorah Portion of the Prophets" he presents an examination of the haftorah -- the prophetical writings in the Bible that are read weekly in synagogue in conjunction with the reading from the Torah. These excerpts and their ties to the weekly Bible portion, however, have been largely unexamined. In this erudite and informative study, Landau offers critically important insights into the distinct ways in which the haftorah correlates to the parasha, and how the two texts inform one another to present a broader message. A unique contribution to the growing body of Judaic Studies literature, "The Haftorah of the Week: An Overview and Elucidation of the Haftorah Portion of the Prophets" is unreservedly recommended as an invaluable addition to personal, synagogue, community, and academic library collections and supplemental studies reading lists.

Moadei HaRav
Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Pick
Urim Publications
c/o Lambda Publishers
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, New York 11225
www.UrimPublications.com
9789655242195, $29.95, HC, 278pp, www.amazon.com

Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Pick teaches advanced Torah studies at Bar Ilan University in Israel. Through the collection of essays and lectures that comprise "Moadei HaRav: Public Lectures on the Festivals by Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik", Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Pick provides insight on Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik's thoughts on Jewish festivals. Rav Joseph B. Soloveitchik was not only one of the outstanding Talmudists of the 20th century, but was also one of its most creative and seminal Jewish thinkers. Moadei HaRav provides lectures by the Rav on the major Jewish holidays, such as Passover and Sukkot, as well as Hanukah and Purim. An introductory essay analyzes the Rav's works and interests in Judaism as well as his methodology of Talmud analysis. "Moadei HaRav" is unreservedly recommended for synagogue, community, college, and university library Judaic Studies collections and supplemental studies reading lists.

A Concise Code of Jewish Law for Converts
Rabbi Michael J. Broyde
Urim Publications
c/o Lambda Publishers
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, New York 11225
www.UrimPublications.com
9789655242492, $24.95, HC, 180pp, www.amazon.com

While the topic of conversion in Judaism has been extensively covered, no one has explored the particular laws related to after conversion. In the pages of "A Concise Code of Jewish Law for Converts", Rabbi Michael J. Broyde (Professor of Law at Emory University School of Law and a Senior Fellow at Emory University's Center for the Study of Law and Religion) deftly explores many topics and questions that revolve around the life of a Jewish convert. Such topics include the place of a convert in a Jewish community according to Jewish law, the treatment of a convert in respect to acceptance and discrimination, and providing affirmative incentives to converts. Containing a detailed review of every aspect of Jewish law from the convert's perspective and in relation to them, as well as supplemental essays, "A Concise Code of Jewish Law for Converts" provides knowledge and guidance on life after conversion. A unique and extraordinarily informative study, "A Concise Code of Jewish Law for Converts" is impressively 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation, making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, synagogue, community, and academic library Judaic Studies collections and supplemental studies lists.


The Islamic Studies Shelf

Symbol of Divine Light
Nicholas Stone
World Wisdom
1501 East Hillside Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401
www.worldwisdom.com
9781936597567, $22.95, PB, 192pp, www.amazon.com

"Symbol of Divine Light: The Lamp in Islamic Culture and Other Traditions" surveys the history of the mosque lamp, describing the numerous variants made in different historical periods and containing more than 200 stunning color and b/w illustrations. The deep significance of light and the lamp in Islamic culture and other traditions (Jewish, Christian, Zoroastrian, Hindu, and Buddhist) is also explored, with reference made to the writings of authors belonging to the "Traditionalist school", notably Frithjof Schuon, Rene Guenon, Titus Burckhardt, and Martin Lings. "Symbol of Divine Light" presents a detailed exploration of the famous Koranic Verse of Light and the symbolism of its constituent elements: light, the niche, the lamp, glass, oil, and the tree. Parallels are also drawn with other traditions, indicating a universal symbolism. Symbol of Divine Light concludes that the most important function of the mosque lamp was as a symbolic reminder of the Verse of Light, as demonstrated by examples that were virtually non-functional as lighting devices and also the extensive use of the mosque lamp as a decorative motif in Islamic architecture. Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout, "Symbol of Divine Light" amply provides the reader an opportunity to contemplate the meaning of the mosque lamp as a symbol of Divine Light. Impressively informed and informative from cover to cover, "Symbol of Divine Light" is highly and unreservedly recommended for personal, mosque, community, and academic library Islamic History collections and supplemental studies reading lists.


The Buddhist Studies Shelf

Tales for Transforming Adversity
Khenpo Sodargye
Wisdom Publications
199 Elm Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.wisdompubs.org
9781614292555, $16.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

Khenpo Sodargye was born in Tibet in 1962 in what is today the Sichuan province of China. After spending his early years herding yaks, he entered the Buddhist monastery and went on to become the preeminent scholar of Larung Gar Buddhist Institute in Serthar. He has been especially effective at popularizing Tibetan Buddhism among Chinese communities and regularly speaks at universities in Asia and the West. In "Tales for Transforming Adversity: A Buddhist Lama's Advice for Life's Ups and Downs" he provides a variety of meditations on topics ranging from flattery and jealousy to karma and compassion. In each brief chapter Khenpo Sodargye weaves in stories from ancient classics and modern headlines. Drawing on adages from the Buddha, Confucius, and even Mark Twain, he delivers simple and timeless insights about facing adversity and developing a good heart. With this English-language edition, American students of Buddhism can benefit from Khenpo Sodargye's ageless advice on money, relationships, mortality, and more. While "Tales for Transforming Adversity: A Buddhist Lama's Advice for Life's Ups and Downs" is very highly recommended for both community and academic library Buddhism collections and supplemental studies lists, it should be noted for students and non-specialist general readers that it is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).


The Photography Shelf

Abandoned France
Sylvain Margaine, photographer
Jonglez Publishing
c/o National Book Network
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200, Lanham, MD 20706
www.nbnbooks.com
9782361952167, $39.95, HC, 208pp, www.amazon.com

Since 1998 Sylvain Margaine has been identifying and photographing the world's forgotten heritage and publishing these urban explorations on his website: www.forbidden- places.net. With the assistance of David Margaine, Sylvain's "Abandoned France" follows the trail of the abandoned Gandrange steelworks or the decommissioned Uckange blast furnaces in Lorraine, a spectacular marine graveyard in Brittany's Crozon peninsula, a forgotten chateau on the outskirts of Paris, a derelict sanatorium in the Alps, the remains of a magnificent Art Deco concert hall in the north, a disused hospital in the south-west, a military fort in the Pyrenees, now off-limits, and a former wine storage cellar in Normandy. Sylvain still travels around France in search of these forbidden and often overlooked places because, as with the publication of "Abandoned France", this is the way he draws attention to the sometimes dramatic fate of the country's heritage, the preservation of which has become a matter for serious reflection. A fascinating, thoughtful and thought-provoking browse from cover to cover, "Abandoned France" is an especially recommended addition to both community and academic library Contemporary Photography collections.

Ballenesque: Roger Ballen - A Retrospective
Roger Ballen
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500519691, $80.00, HC, 336pp, www.amazon.com

Roger Ballen is an award-winning American photographer who has lived and worked in South Africa since the 1970s. "Ballenesque: Roger Ballen - A Retrospective" is a visual exploration of his now more than four-decade-long career and represents an entirely fresh edit by Roger Ballen himself and features many previously unpublished images. Best known for his psychologically powerful and intricately layered images that exist in a space between painting, drawing, installation, and photography "Ballenesque" is the first comprehensive retrospective of his work and is deftly separated into four parts, presenting a chronological journey through Ballen's entire oeuvre, including both iconic images and previously unpublished works. With more than 300 photographs in color and duotone, as well as featuring an informative introduction by Robert JC Young, "Ballenesque" offers a new way of seeing Ballen's work for those who already follow his career, as well as providing a impressively comprehensive introduction for those encountering his striking photographs for the first time. "Ballenesque: Roger Ballen - A Retrospective" is highly recommended as a critically important addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Contemporary Photography collections and supplemental studies reading lists.


The Woodworking Shelf

Finishing Wood
Fine Woodworking Editors
The Taunton Press
63 South Main Street, Newtown, CT 06470
www.taunton.com
9781631868931, $21.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

A great finish can make even the most simple of woodworking projects look magnificent, while a bad finish job can ruin the most well-built and sophisticated piece of furniture. Finishing can be a daunting and mystifying task to many woodworkers and DIYers who fear wrecking their projects at this late stage in the process. That's why the editorial staff of Fine Woodworking magazine assembled a collection of articles from Fine Woodworking to bring together in one instructional resource the very best information on a rich variety of finishing techniques. Finishing wood isn't limited to fine clear finishes like shellac and French polishing, but also includes bright pigmented lacquers, dyes and stains, milk paint, and "crackled" paint. Of special note is the section devoted to the hot new trend of coloring wood. Also included is timeless information on preparing a surface before you apply a finish (a critical first step) as well as tried-and-true methods for applying all the traditional finishes, whether by brush or by spraying. Profusely illustrated from cover to cover, thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Finishing Wood" is an essential, core addition to personal, professional, school wood shop, community, and technical college library Woodworking instructional reference collections.


The Fashion Shelf

Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice, and Techniques
Steven Faerm
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard, Hauppauge, NY 11788
www.barronseduc.com
9781438011073, $23.99, PB, 160pp, www.amazon.com

Steven Faerm is the BFA Director of Fashion Design at Parsons The New School for Design in New York City. An alumnus of Parsons, he was nominated for the prestigious Designer of the Year Award during his final year. Following graduation, he went on to work for such designers as Donna Karan and Marc Jacobs. He has been an active faculty member at Parsons since 1998. In "Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice, and Techniques" he draws upon his years of experience and expertise to provide a completely 'user friendly' course of instruction for aspiring fashion designers. The "Fashion Design Course" covers: How the digital age impacts education and the design process from research right through to the finished product; Customer Profiles: demographics, psychographics, the role of advertising, and more; Creating a unique vision with help from ethnographic research, design considerations, iconic films and their impact on fashion design, and developing a fabric story; Cultivating your design collection through process and investigation while using Mood Boards, Garment Construction, and more; Producing your own collections with individual exercises based on frequently used concepts for building collections including Shipping Reports, Ethnic Backgrounds, 3D/2D, Concept to Runway, Shifts in Fashion, Accessories, and more; Strategies and tips that will help you transition from course work to a career in fashion including tips on resumes, interviewing, portfolio presentation, and more. Now in a significantly updated second edition "Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice, and Techniques" includes the latest information in fashion design and development and is an ideal introduction for students, dressmakers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the creative side of the fashion industry. Exceptionally well written, organized, illustrated and presented, "Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice, and Techniques" is unreservedly recommended for personal, community, and academic library Contemporary Fashion instructional reference collections. It should be noted for fashion design students that "Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice, and Techniques" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.19).


The Needlecraft Shelf

Start with Strips
Susan Ache
Martingale & Company
19021 - 120th Avenue NE, Suite 102, Bothell, WA 98011
www.shopmartingale.com
9781604688719, $25.99, PB, 80pp, www.amazon.com

In the beautifully illustrated pages of "Start with Strips: 13 Colorful Quilts from 2-1/2" Strips", master scrap quilter Susan Ache shares her secrets for creating gorgeous, colorful quilts -- and they all start with 2-1/2" fabric strips. Once Susan's thoroughly 'user friendly' tricks for sorting strips, even the most novice quilt making beginner will feel comfortable in making sensationally scrappy quilts without fear of choosing colors or prints. And Susan's sorting method? It works the same for virtually all precut fabrics. Exceptionally well organized and presented, "Start with Strips: 13 Colorful Quilts from 2-1/2" Strips" is enthusiastically recommended for personal and community library Needlecraft instructional reference collections. It should be noted that "Start with Strips: 13 Colorful Quilts from 2-1/2" Strips" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Big Book of One-Block Quilts
That Patchwork Place
Martingale & Company
19021 - 120th Avenue NE, Suite 102, Bothell, WA 98011
www.shopmartingale.com
9781604688931, $28.99, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

It's so easy to create quilts that repeat a single block -- make just one and even the most novice of quilt makers will have the confidence to fly through the rest of their quilt! With "The Big Book of One-Block Quilts", quilting enthusiasts will be able to choose from a 57 diverse quilts to piece one block at a time, or make blocks in multiples with quick chain-piecing methods. "The Big Book of One-Block Quilts" features such star quilting designers including Kim Diehl, Country Threads' Mary Etherington and Connie Tesene, Pat Sloan, Carrie Nelson, and Jo Morton will help along the way. With "The Big Book of One-Block Quilts" anyone can pair repeated blocks with plain squares, rotate blocks for a playful spin, or simply line them up row by row. From fun make-in-a-weekend designs to stunning quilts to cherish and pass on, "The Big Book of One-Block Quilts" will have just the perfect block to repeat in a colossal compilation of quilt patterns! Impressively 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "The Big Book of One-Block Quilts" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, and community library Needlecrafting instructional reference collections. It should be noted that "The Big Book of One-Block Quilts" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).


The Parenting Shelf

Understanding Your Teen
Jim Burns
IVP Books
c/o InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1426
www.ivpress.com
9780830844876, $16.00, PB, 212pp, www.amazon.com

Parenting teenagers is one of the biggest challenges a parent can face. New realities make becoming independent more difficult. Teens are traveling a different road and are moving at a different pace than those of previous generations. Today's cultural environment is more complicated and confusing than ever. That's why with "Understanding Your Teen: Shaping Their Character, Facing Their Realities" by family expert Jim Burns has provided a handy guide for parenting teens. For teens to become responsible adults, parents need to help them grow through developmental changes to attain a healthy self-identity, establish good relationships, make wise decisions, and grow in their relationship with God. Burns shows how parents can shape behavior and character, navigate social media challenges, and communicate and resolve conflict healthily. He also tackles the realities of our day, including cyberbullying, dating violence, self-injury, depression, and much more. Whether you're facing serious troubles or need simple tips for a better family life, this book offers help and hope, "Understanding Your Teen" will prove to be an immensely insightful and informative instructional guide. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Understanding Your Teen" is especially recommended for community library Parenting reference collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Understanding Your Teen" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

The Real Mum's Guide to Surviving Parenthood
Jen Hogan
Orpen Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7, 124 Byers Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
www.dufoureditions.com
9781786050328, $22.00, PB, 200pp, www.amazon.com

In the pages of "The Real Mum's Guide to Surviving Parenthood", Jen Hogan (a real-life, mother of seven children) offers her perspective on the rollercoaster of parenthood, with all its ups and downs, challenges, and rewards. The approach and tone are both humorous and sensitive. Realistic and anecdotal, "The Real Mum's Guide to Surviving Parenthood" is filled from cover to cover with 'real world' practical advice that appreciates the emotional involvement in rearing children. "The Real Mum's Guide to Surviving Parenthood" will prove to be an informative and applicable read for all parents, from expectant mothers to parents of teenagers as it deals with a broad range of concerns and issues including: Pregnancy, Childbirth, Miscarriage; The Newborn Stage; Postnatal Depression; The importance of friends for a new mother; Toddler terrors and 'threenagers'; Adjusting the family dynamic with the introduction of a new child; The primary school years; The secondary school transition. If you as a busy mother have time for only one 'self-help' book, make it "The Real Mum's Guide to Surviving Parenthood"! While very highly recommended for community and academic library Parenting instructional reference collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Real Mum's Guide to Surviving Parenthood" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).


The Self-Help Shelf

How to Survive Your Childhood Now That You're an Adult
Ira Israel
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way, Novato, CA 94949
www.newworldlibrary.com
9781608685073, $15.95, PB, 208pp, www.amazon.com

As children, we learned to get approval by creating facades to help us get our emotional and psychological needs met, but we also rebelled against authority as a way of individuating. As adults, these conflicting desires leave many of us feeling anxious or depressed because our authentic selves are buried deep beneath glitzy or rebellious exteriors or some combination thereof. "How to Survive Your Childhood Now That You're an Adult: A Path to Authenticity and Awakening" by psychotherapist Ira Israel is provocative and instructive guide offering the reader a powerful, comprehensive, step-by-step path to recognizing the ways of being that we created as children and transcending them with compassion and acceptance. By doing so, we discover our true callings and cultivate the authentic love we were born deserving. With an underlying and ultimately inspiring theme of positive change, "How to Survive Your Childhood Now That You're an Adult" is a life-changing, life-enhancing read from cover to cover, and one that is unreservedly recommended for personal growth reading lists, as well as community and academic library Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections. It should be noted that "How to Survive Your Childhood Now That You're an Adult" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Tantor Audio, 9781541464919, $24.99, CD).


The Audiobook Shelf

Shift Ahead
Allen Adamson and Joel Steckel, authors
Performed by Tom Parks
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781536663259 $19.99 www.brillianceaudio.com

Shift Ahead: How the Best Companies Stay Relevant in a Fast-Changing World is the unabridged MP3 audiobook (plays on MP3-CD enabled players or transfers to portable devices) about the importance of adapting to technological and market-based changes for all types of organizations, from nonprofits to small businesses to multinational corporations. How can executives best react to new technology that all but dismantles the traditional business model, competitors that appear out of nowhere, evolving trends and tastes, and more? Shift Ahead draws form interviews with more than 100 executives and experts who lived through turbulent changes or closely analyzed them, and is a "must" for business leaders or proprietors in the twenty-first century. Highly recommended. 1 MP3 CD, 10 hours 22 min.

Mr. Dickens and His Carol
Samantha Silva, author
Euan Morton, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781427292728, $29.99, CD, www.amazon.com

Charles Dickens is not feeling the Christmas spirit. His newest book is an utter flop, the critics have turned against him, relatives near and far hound him for money. While his wife plans a lavish holiday party for their ever-expanding family and circle of friends, Dickens has visions of the poor house. But when his publishers try to blackmail him into writing a Christmas book to save them all from financial ruin, he refuses. And a serious bout of writer's block sets in. Frazzled and filled with self-doubt, Dickens seeks solace in his great palace of thinking, the city of London itself. On one of his long night walks, in a once-beloved square, he meets the mysterious Eleanor Lovejoy, who might be just the muse he needs. As Dickens' deadlines close in, Eleanor propels him on a Scrooge-like journey that tests everything he believes about generosity, friendship, ambition, and love. The story he writes will change Christmas forever. All the more impressive when considering that "Mr. Dickens and His Carol" is the debut of author Samantha Silva as novelist, this superbly crafted and consistently entertaining story is deftly narrated by the vocal talents of Euan Morton. The result is a true 'theatre of the mind' experience from beginning to end, making this complete and unabridged Macmillan Audio edition "Mr. Dickens and His Carol" unreservedly recommended for personal and community library audio book collections. (7 CDs, 8 Hours).

Children of the Fleet
Orson Scott Card, author
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781427289926, $39.99, CD, www.amazon.com

Orson Scott Card is an American novelist, critic, public speaker, essayist, and columnist. He writes in several genres but is known best for science fiction. "Children of the Fleet" is a new angle on Card's 'Ender's Shadow' science fiction series, telling the story of the Fleet in space, parallel to the story on Earth. Ender Wiggin won the Third Formic war, ending the alien threat to Earth. Afterwards, all the terraformed Formic worlds were open to settlement by humans, and the International Fleet became the arm of the Ministry of Colonization, run by Hirum Graff. MinCol now runs Fleet School on the old Battle School station, and still recruits very smart kids to train as leaders of colony ships, and colonies. Dabeet Ochoa is a very smart kid. Top of his class in every school. But he doesn't think he has a chance at Fleet School, because he has no connections to the Fleet. That he knows of. At least until the day that Colonel Graff arrives at his school for an interview. Card's thoroughly entertaining story is brought to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience with an especially talented cast that includes Stefan Rudnicki, Emily Rankin, Kirby Heyborne, Orson Scott Card, P.J. Ochlan, Gabrielle de Cuir, Richard Gilliland, Kristoffer Tabori, and Judy Young. Certain to be an enduringly popular addition to community library audio book collections, this complete and unabridged Macmillan Audio edition is a 'must' for the legions of Orson Scott Card fans! (10 CDs, 11.5 Hours).

The Unkillable Kitty O'Kane
Colin Falconer, author
Performed by Alana Kerr Collins
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781543630329 $24.95 www.brillianceaudio.com

The Unkillable Kitty O'Kane is the unabridged audiobook rendition of a historical fiction novel starring a plucky and resourceful heroine. Set in the early twentieth century, the saga follows Kitty O'Kane's escape from extreme poverty in Dublin, her misfortune aboard the "Titanic" while working as a maid, her fight for civil rights as a New York suffragette, her travels in war-torn Europe as a journalist, and her return to her native Ireland to serve as a nurse in the Irish Civil War. She finds the possibility of love with her childhood sweetheart, Tom Davis, but will her tumultuous and sometimes violent past impede her road to happiness? An absorbing, character- driven saga smoothly brought to life by performer Alana Kerr Collins, The Unkillable Kitty O'Kane is highly recommended for both public library and personal audiobook collections. 8 discs, 9 hours 44 min.

Questions That Sell, second edition
Paul Cherry, author
Performed by Patrick Lawlor
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781543640755 $24.99 www.brillianceaudio.com

Now in an updated second edition with new material on how to discover hidden customer needs and motivations, how to turn social media contacts into actual sales leads, how to soothe anxious buyers, and more, Questions That Sell is an unabridged audiobook not only for sales professionals, but also for any independent contractor or small business owner. Knowing the right questions to ask a prospective client can make all the difference in a fiercely competitive economy, making Questions that Sell a "must" resource. Highly recommended! 7 discs, 8 hours 17 min.


The Music CD Shelf

The View from Outside
The Ries Brothers
RiesBrothers.com
Privately Published
$13.99 CD / $8.99 MP3 amazon.com

The View from Outside is the debut album by The Ries Brothers, an up-and-coming duo of literal brothers who incorporate rock, blues, funk, and reggae into their own unique style of lively music. Vocals, drums, keyboard bass, and guitar are the primary instruments driving this energetic, passionate performance, enthusiastically recommended as a musical "pick me up"! The tracks are "It's Never Me", "Closer To You", "Street Lights", "Echoing Dream", "Neon Signs", "Run to the Sea", "The View from the Outside", "Sentimental Games", "No Place I'd Rather Be", "Something", "Unrequited", "Without You", and "Road Map".

After the Harvest
Michael Kent Smith
michaelkentsmith.com
Heart Dance Recordings
$TBA CD / $7.99 MP3 amazon.com

Originally composed in 2002, After the Harvest is being re-released by Heart Dance Recordings. Composed by painter and musician Michael Kent Smith, After the Harvest is inspired by the music structure of the 12th century and draws inspiration from the cycles of life, from daily routines to generational shifts. Many of the songs were built around medieval tunes, though once the composition was complete Michael Smith removed the original medieval melody from the finished project. A variety of instruments including guitars, dulcimers, psaltery, bandurria, recorders, dumbec and shakers are used in this unique and memorable creation, highly recommended for connoisseurs of reinvented classics. The tracks are "The Fruits of Your Labor" (6:45), "Tapestry #1" (3:09), "Konstantin Surveys His Land" (4:15), "Fourteen Generations" (2:05), "The Veil" (2:44), "Sing Mother Earth" (4:11), "Peace Is Every Step" (3:01), "The Family Tree" (2:53), "Aucon Vont" (2:29), "The Royal Chamber" (3:48), "The (W)hole Above Me" (5:01), "As the Crow Flies (Parts I & II)" (3:35), "Until Next Year (The Haymakers Dance)" (3:38) and "The Noble Vine" (2:54).

Spiritual Odyssey
Russell Suereth
www.russellsuereth.com
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3 amazon.com

Spiritual Odyssey: A Chronicle of a Spiritual Journey is the fourth recording by electronic keyboardist, new age vocalist, and composer Russell Suereth. The music is designed to guide the listener on a spiritual voyage to clear the mind and sharpen the senses, encouraging one to dream and think beyond everyday confines. Spiritual Odyssey is beautiful, inspirational, and highly recommended especially to new age connoisseurs. The tracks are "Break the Chains" (3:21), "My Beating Heart" (3:19), "Where Will I Go" (4:37), "A Ride to Virgo" (4:56), "So Far Away" (3:18), "The Hidden Dance" (3:33), "It's All Around" (3:59), "The Walls are Tumbling" (5:00), "Seed of Imagery" (3:45) and "A Burning Rainbow" (3:45).

When Every Word Was Singing
Uwe Gronau
uwegronau.com
Privately Published
$TBA cdbaby.com

When Every Word Was Singing is the latest, original new age album by German keyboardist and composer Uwe Gronau, well-known for his dynamic creativity and masterful electric soundscapes. A handful of friends and associates, including lyricist Michael Hoing, contributed to a few of the songs, but most of When Every Word Was Singing flows from Gronau's vision. Soul-stirring to the point of transcendental, When Every Word Was Singing is highly recommended to new age connoisseurs. The tracks are "When Every Word Was Singing" (4:05), "Inner Face" (3:51), "Motif in Motion" (3:54), "Never Forget" (3:54), "Breakfast in Kentucky" (4:01), "Rockets on their Minds" (3:30), "Rainbows in our Eyes" (3:25), "Storm" (2:34), "Into the Sky" (3:31), "Dream Dream" (3:45), "Jackson" (4:13), "Loving Time" 4:23", "Ray of Hope" (3:14), "Death of a Matador" (3:53), "Nachstuck" (3:30), and "Waterland" (2:49).


The DVD/Blu-ray Shelf

Acceptable Risk
Chad Campbell
Acorn Media
c/o RLJ Entertainment
www.us.RLJEntertainment.com
$39.99 www.acornonline.com

Available in both DVD and Blu-ray formats, Acceptable Risk is an Acorn TV Original Series laced with corporate intrigue. When the second husband of Sarah Manning (played by Elaine Cassidy) is killed while on business in Montreal, her daily life in Dublin escalates out of control. She begins to understand just how little she knew of his business dealings with a powerful international pharmaceutical company. Could whoever killed him also have murdered her first husband? What secret might both men have known that made their lives forfeit? Detective Emer Byrne (played by Angeline Ball) has been assigned to the case, and relentlessly sifts conflicting evidence in spite of her superior's orders. A harrowing and suspenseful thriller, Acceptable Risk is highly recommended. Bonus features include behind-the-scenes featurettes (62 min.) and cast interviews (19 min.) 6 episodes on 2 discs, 322 min. plus bonus.

George Gently: The Complete Collection
Based on the novels by Alan Hunter
Acorn Media
c/o RLJ Entertainment
www.us.RLJEntertainment.com
$149.99 DVD / $149.99 Blu-ray www.acornonline.com

Available as a 25-disc DVD set or as a 13-disc Blu-ray set, George Gently: The Complete Collection gathers the entire BBC detective drama series based on the riveting novels by Alan Hunter and starring award-nominated actor Martin Shaw as the respectable Detective George Gently. Aided by his loyal partner Detective Inspector John Bacchus (played by Lee Ingleby), George Gently investigates sinister crimes and confronts the turbulent social and political changes of mid-1960s England. The Complete Collection consists of the 25 feature-length mysteries of all eight George Gently series, and is an absolute "must-have" for British mystery connoisseurs! Bonus materials include behind-the-scenes featurettes, cast interviews, production notes, and a photo gallery. 37.5 hours.

YMAA Publications
PO Box 480, Wolfeboro, NH 03894-0480
www.ymaa.com
www.holdenqigong.com

Two excellent DVDs from YMAA Publications and instructor Lee Holden guide viewers of all skill and experience levels to Qi Gong, an ancient movement practice in Chinese medicine that promotes a healthy body and tranquil mind. In "Qi Gong for Strong Bones" (33 min.), Holden demonstrates strength building exercises, as well as bone breathing Qi exercises and ways to circulate life force energy. In "Qi Gong for Healthy Joints" (54 min.), Holden guides the viewer to flexibility building exercises, joint circulation Qi exercises, and flows to send energy to the joints. Both DVDs are easy to follow, and filmed amid the beautiful Yosemite wilderness. A disclaimer on both DVDs notes that they are not intended to substitute for the counsel of a trained physician concerning bone or joint issues; with that caveat firmly in mind, "Qi Gong for Strong Bones" and "Qi Gong for Healthy Joints" are highly recommended as a supplement to personal fitness programs.


The Travel Shelf

The Solo Travel Handbook
Lonely Planet Publications
150 Linden Street, Oakland CA 94607
9781787011335 $17.99 www.lonelyplanet.com

The Solo Travel Handbook: Practical Tips and Inspiration for a safe, fun and fearless trip is packed cover to cover with recommendations for solo travelers, whether on a road trip, a visit to a foreign city, or a vacation on an island paradise. Full-color photographs illustrate this superb resource, with tips ranging from useful smartphone apps, to safety suggestions (such as asking the staff of one's local accommodation to mark which areas on a map are dangerous to visit), to health concerns ("In some countries, typically developing countries, what it says on the [pharmaceutical] packet may not be what's inside the packet"). The Solo Travel Handbook also has recommendations for being a responsible and eco-friendly travelers, as well as planning a balanced itinerary and travel budget. An absolute "must-have" for any independent traveler, highly recommended.

Veggie Hotels
teNeues Publishing Group
7 West 18th Street, New York, NY, 10011
www.teneues.com
9783961710454, $65.00, HC, 224pp, www.amazon.com

Even with the loveliest hotel room and a beckoning pool, the perfect vacation for vegetarians can be spoiled when the restaurant forces them to make a meal out of side dishes because no vegetarian entrees are offered. For vegetarians and vegans, a hotel vacation suiting their culinary lifestyle is quite a challenge. But there are outstanding alternatives out there, they just have to find them! Travel journalists, Thomas and Karen Klein, had the same thought, so, in 2011, they joined forces with Peter Haunert to launch the hotel partner and website, VeggieHotels, a portal featuring 100% vegetarian hotels and inns. In addition to purely vegetarian-vegan hotels, more establishments are offering guests outstanding vegan cuisine alongside more conventional dishes, so the founders of VeggieHotels responded to this trend in 2015 by expanding their selection of vegan-friendly accommodations with another new website called, VeganWelcome. They shine a spotlight on wonderful places run with great love and enthusiasm that are paving the way for a kind of tourism based on ethical principles and sustainability. And their success shows just how right they were: today, more than 300 hotels and inns in over 60 countries are VeggieHotels and VeganWelcome members. Guests at these establishments can savor new and creative vegetarian and vegan cuisine that will satisfy even the most jaded palate. This volume introduces the best hotels from the VeggieHotels and VeganWelcome websites with gorgeous photos and detailed information on each property's special features from cooking classes to yoga retreats. The locations include everything from trendy downtown hotels in vegan hotspots Berlin and London to a holistic health resort on Bali. Top chefs reveal their secret recipes as well, so your culinary getaway can continue long after you've returned home. A unique, beautifully illustrated, and impressively informative specialized travel guide of special interest and value to vegans and vegetarians, "Veggie Hotels" is unreservedly recommended for personal, travel agency, community, and academic library Travel Guide collections.

Secret Tokyo
Pierre Mustiere & Yoko Kera
Jonglez Publishing
9782361951153, $19.95, PB, 400pp, www.amazon.com

"Secret Tokyo" is a unique local guide to a Tokyo relatively unknown to a typical tourist including a building that acts as a giant firewall, a secret city center canyon, a statue that cures warts, ultra-modern designer toilets, an extraordinary tree that helps you quit smoking, an electronic sunflower, a spectacular modern temple hidden in the heart of Shinjuku, a street that gives Tokyo taxi drivers nightmares, a massive building that looks like a warship, forgotten rivers, and so much more! Far from the ordinary crowds and the usual cliches, the city of Tokyo swings between modernity and tradition, preservation of its heritage, sophisticated aestheticism and eccentricity, offering countless off-beat experiences. The Japanese capital is home to any number of well-hidden treasures that will be revealed only to residents and travelers who find their way off the beaten track with the help that "Secret Tokyo" has to offer them. An indispensable guide for those who thought they knew Tokyo well or would like to discover the other face of the city, "Secret Tokyo" is nicely illustrated throughout and unreservedly recommended for personal, community, and academic library Travel Guide collections in general, and Tokyo excursion itineraries in particular.


The Cookbook Shelf

Cooking with the Wolfman: Indigenous Fusion
David Wolfman & Marlene Finn
Douglas & McIntyre
c/o Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219, Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
www.douglas-mcintyre.com
9781771621632, $29.95, PB, 240pp, www.amazon.com

Chef David Wolfman, member of the Xaxli'p First Nation, is an internationally recognized expert in wild game and traditional Indigenous cuisine. He has been a culinary arts professor at George Brown College in Toronto since 1994 and is also executive producer and host of a popular APTN program, Cooking with the Wolfman. With the assistance of Marlene Finn, David Wolfman draws upon his years of culinary experience and expertise to create "Cooking with the Wolfman: Indigenous Fusion" showcasing a wealth of beautifully illustrated and 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes for truly memorable Canadian dishes. These exquisite and deftly crafted recipes range from Wild Rice Pepper Pilaf; Flame-Kissed Pineapple Shrimp Kebobs; Easy Deer Lasagna; and Cranberry Moose Meatloaf with Mushroom Fig Sauce; to Lemony Rabbit Succotash; Hot-Smoked Winnipeg Goldeye Chowder; Buffalo Pemmican; and Alderwood Smoked Nuts. Of special note in addition to the recipes themselves are the instructional sections for novice chefs on kitchen essentials and food handling techniques, basic cooking methods and 'tricks of the trade. Unique, original, elegant, "Cooking with the Wolfman: Indigenous Fusion" will prove to be an enduringly prized addition to any personal, family, professional, or community library cookbook collection.

It's All Greek To Me
Debbie Matenopoulos
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400, Dallas, TX 75204
www.benbellabooks.com
9781939529930, $29.95, HC, 304pp, www.amazon.com

Debbie Matenopoulos is the first member of her family born in America and grew up in a traditional Greek household, eating delicious, authentic Greek cooking that her family had passed down for generations. By the time Debbie had started her television career in New York on The View, she began eating a standard American diet. But despite carefully limiting how much she ate, she found herself gaining weight and lacking energy. As Debbie's career as an entertainment news reporter and television host on BS, MTV, E!, and other networks had her constantly on the go, she was grabbing whatever food was readily available. It was only when she returned to her traditional Greek diet that she found herself easily (and healthily) realizing her natural weight and regaining her natural energy, stamina, and physique. Now, in "It's All Greek to Me: Transform Your Health the Mediterranean Way with My Family's Century-Old Recipes", Debbie shares 120 of her family's traditional Greek recipes and adds her own touch to make them even healthier and easier to prepare. Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout, the thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes range from Kalamarakia Tiganita (Lightly Fried Calamari); Patata kai Kremithi Salata (Potato and Onion Salad); and Fasolatha (Navy Bean Soup); to Kolokithakia Gemista me Kima (Stuffed Zucchini); Hirino Krassato (Pork in White Wine Sauce); and Trigona Thessalonikis (Almond Custard Triangles). While enthusiastically and unreservedly recommended for family, community, and professional ethnic cookbook collections, it should be noted that "It's All Greek to Me: Transform Your Health the Mediterranean Way with My Family's Century-Old Recipes" is also available in a paperback edition (9781942952411, $21.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.19).

Everyday Korean
Kim Sunee & Seung Hee Lee
The Countryman Press
c/o W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.countrymanpress.com
9781682681145, $29.95, HC, 256pp, www.amazon.com

The backbone of Korean cuisine, jang, has a flavor not found anywhere else in the world. The cuisine's combination of savory, sweet, salty, and spicy flavors makes it uniquely delicious, yet there are few resources for those who wish to enjoy it at home. Until now. Compiled and presented by Kim Sunee (a former food editor) Seung Hee Lee (who born and raised in Korea, has studied traditional Korean Royal Court cuisine and teaches cooking classes in Atlanta, Georgia) "Everyday Korean: Fresh, Modern Recipes for Home Cooks" is comprised of authentic ethnic recipes that packed with Korean flavors, as well as Korean cooking techniques that will open the door for readers unfamiliar with the cuisine. With thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes ranging from Egg Pinwheels with Seaweed; Braised Rice Cakes; Glazed Lotus Root; and Fresh Soy-Cured Blue Crabs; to Turnip Kimchni; Braised Fish in Spicy Broth; Beef on a Stick with Korean BBQ Sauce; Duck Breast with Creamy Soy Sauce; and Kimchi Fried Rice Arancini. Profusely illustrated with the beautifully photography of Leela Cyd and offering a wealth of practical tips for building a Korean pantry, drink pairings (from soju to microbrews), and menu ideas, "Everyday Korean" is the ultimate guide to one of the world's most unique and delicious cuisines and will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to personal, family, professional and community library Ethnic Cookbook collections. It should be noted that "Everyday Korean" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.05).


The Architecture Shelf

City of Wooden Houses: Georgetown, Guyana
Compton Davis
Merrell Publishers
8755 Lookout Mountain Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046
www.merrellpublishers.com
9781858946641, $60.00, PB, 192pp, www.amazon.com

Georgetown is the capital of Guyana and located on the northeast coast of South America. It has been described as 'the Venice of the West Indies', and its elegant canals and bridges, lush tropical vegetation and handsome buildings make it a place of great beauty. The city's architecture is essentially colonial, having been molded by the French, Dutch, British and Spanish during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Built in a classical style reinterpreted by local craftsmen and realized largely in the region's plentiful wood rather than more durable brick and stone, these buildings are now suffering from neglect and the ravages of the hot, humid climate. Some are being carefully preserved and maintained, but many more are disintegrating or being demolished to make way for development, much of it in glass and concrete. Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout, "City of Wooden Houses: Georgetown, Guyana" by professional architect Compton Davis documents those colonial buildings, some of which have disappeared even since they were photographed. Photographs of the individual buildings being showcased, along with their particular features are accompanied by short descriptive and historical texts. "City of Wooden Houses: Georgetown, Guyana" will have special and particular appeal to architects, architecture students, and architecture conservationists and preservationists, making it unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and academic library Architecture collections and supplemental studies reading lists.

Empire, State & Building
Kiel Moe
Actar D
c/o Actar Publishers
355 Lexington Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10017
http://actar.com
9781940291840, $34.95, HC, 300pp, www.amazon.com

"Empire, State & Building" by Kiel Moe (Associate Professor of Architecture and Energy at the Harvard Graduate School of Design) considers the material basis of building as a key impetus of both urbanization and the energetics of urban life. The otherwise externalized material geographies and thermodynamics of building's material basis reveal much about the dynamics and efficacy of how we build. "Empire, State & Building" plots the material history and geography for one plot of land in Manhattan (the parcel of land under the Empire State Building) over the past two hundred years. Through rich illustrations, "Empire, State & Building" deftly tracks all the building material that have passed through this parcel or remain in its geographic and ecological dynamics: spatially (in terms of their geographic material footprints and industrial processes) and quantitatively (in terms of embodied energy, embodied carbon, and energy flow). In successive chapters, "Empire, State & Building" articulates the empire and states that are inherent to building, but remain unconsidered (abstract and unknown) by architects. Impressively informed and informative, "Empire, State & Building" is extraordinarily well written, organized and presented, making it an unreservedly recommended addition to professional, community, and academic library Architectural History collections in general, and Empire State Building supplemental studies reading lists in particular.


The Education Shelf

Robotics for Young Children
Ann Gadzikowski
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court, St. Paul, MN 55117-1065
www.redleafpress.org
9781605545448, $34.95, PB, 148pp, www.amazon.com

"Robotics for Young Children: STEM Activities and Simple Coding" by Ann Gadzikowski (who has more than twenty-five years of experience as a teacher and director of early childhood programs, and is the Early Childhood Coordinator for Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development, as well as overseeing the summer Leapfrog Program) introduces young children to the building and programming of robots through playful, developmentally appropriate activities. Many early childhood professionals are unfamiliar with computer science, robotics, and engineering concepts. "Robotics for Young Children" is a user-friendly and accessible instruction guide and manual that will provide teachers with great ideas for engaging young children in the form of 100 exciting hands-on computer science and engineering activities. "Robotics for Young Children" can be easily included in a developmentally appropriate curriculum and offers a balance of adult-facilitated and child-centered activities, making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to classroom, school district, college, and university library Teacher Education instructional materials collections.

Lesson Plans
Judson G. Everitt
Rutgers University Press
106 Somerset St., 3rd Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
http://rutgerspress.rutgers.edu
9780813587608, $95.00, HC, 222pp, www.amazon.com

An Assistant Professor of Sociology at Loyola University Chicago, Illinois, Judson G. Everitt wrote "Lesson Plans: The Institutional Demands of Becoming a Teacher" to take students, education policy makers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject into the everyday worlds of teacher training revealing the complexities and dilemmas teacher candidates confront as they learn how to perform a job that many people assume anybody can do. Using rich qualitative data, Professor Everitt analyzes how people make sense of their prospective jobs as teachers, and how their introduction to this profession is shaped by the institutionalized rules and practices of higher education, K-12 education, and gender. Trained to constantly adapt to various contingencies that routinely arise in schools and classrooms, teacher candidates learn that they must continually try to reconcile the competing expectations of their jobs to meet students' needs in an era of accountability. "Lesson Plans" also reveals how institutions shape the ways we produce teachers, and how new teachers make sense of the multiple and complicated demands they face in their efforts to educate students. A remarkably informative and exceptionally insightful study that is impressively accessible in both organization and presentation, "Lesson Plans" is a unique and critically important addition both college and university library Teacher Education collections and supplemental studies lists. It should be noted that "Lesson Plans" is also available in a paperback edition (9780813587592, $26.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $26.95).


The Biography Shelf

Agnes Moorehead On Radio, Stage and Television
Axel Nissen
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
www.mcfarlandpub.com
9781476667584, $39.95, PB, 217pp, www.amazon.com

In a career spanning six decades, Agnes Moorehead (December 6, 1900 - April 30, 1974) was perhaps unique among 20th-century American actresses in becoming a star in four different entertainment media (radio, theater, film and television) after the age 40. Focusing on 25 of her most representative performances, "Agnes Moorehead on Radio, Stage and Television" by Axel Nissen (Professor of American literature in the Department of Literature, Area Studies and European Languages at the University of Oslo in Norway) is a biographical retrospective that analyzes her work on radio serials like Mayor of the Town (1942-1949) and Suspense (1942-1962), her stage productions of Don Juan in Hell and Gigi, her television appearances on Bewitched and The Twilight Zone and her Emmy-winning appearance on The Wild Wild West. Professor Nissen ably presents Moorehead's roles in the context of her personal life, discusses her relationship with directors, producers and other performers and provides little known facts about the productions. An extraordinarily informative and exceptionally well written biography complete with Chapter Notes, a Bibliography, and an Index, "Agnes Moorehead On Radio, Stage and Television" is unreservedly recommended for both community and academic 20th Century American Biography collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists (especially for babyboomers who perhaps knows Agnes Moorehead best for her role in Betwitched as Endora) that "Agnes Moorehead On Radio, Stage and Television" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $19.99).

Whatsoever Things...
Mark Camphouse
GIA Publications, Inc.
7404 South Mason Avenue, Chicago, IL 60638
www.giamusic.com
9781622771325, $29.95, HC, 265pp, www.amazon.com

John P. Paynter was one of the true legends of the wind band world, serving as the celebrated Director of Bands at Northwestern University and President of the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. He forever impacted the instrumental music community. "Whatsoever Things...: The Life and Teachings of John P. Paynter" is a fascinating and detailed portrait, the result of a collaborative effort that is written by his friends, colleagues, former students, and with guidance from the Paynter family. This outstanding biography delves into Paynter's outstanding abilities as a great teacher, conductor, composer-arranger, leader, role model, innovator, and motivator. "Whatsoever Things..." also explores Mr. Paynter's early years growing up in small-town Mineral Point, Wisconsin, his student years at Northwestern University, his years as Director of Bands at Northwestern, his directorship of the famed Northshore Concert Band, and his years as President of the Midwest Clinic. More than a simple portrait of an extraordinary man, "Whatsoever Things..." culminates with an examination of the present state of affairs in instrumental music education and the wind band profession, and how its role in the school curriculum and in society may change in the years ahead. An exceptionally informative and comprehensive study, "Whatsoever Things..." is unreservedly recommended, especially for community and academic library American Biography collections in general, and Music Education History supplemental studies lists in particular.

American Witness: The Art and Life of Robert Frank
R. J. Smith
Da Capo Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
250 W. 57th St., Suite 1500, New York, NY 10107
www.perseusbooksgroup.com
9780306823367, $35.00, HC, 352pp, www.amazon.com

Robert Frank (born November 9, 1924) is a Swiss-American photographer and documentary filmmaker. As well-known as Robert Frank the photographer is, few can say they really know Robert Frank the man. Born and raised in wartime Switzerland, Frank discovered the power and allure of photography at an early age and quickly learned that the art meant significantly more to him than the money, success, or fame. The art was all, and he intended to spend a lifetime pursuing it. "American Witness" is the first comprehensive look at the life of a man who's as mysterious and evasive as he is prolific and gifted. Leaving his rigid Switzerland for the more fluid United States in 1947, Frank found himself at the red-hot social center of bohemian New York in the '50s and '60s, becoming friends with everyone from Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Peter Orlovsky to photographer Walker Evans, actor Zero Mostel, painter Willem de Kooning, filmmaker Jonas Mekas, Bob Dylan, writer Rudy Wirlitzer, jazz musicians Ornette Coleman and Charles Mingus, and more. Frank roamed the country with his young family, taking roughly 27,000 photographs and collecting 83 of them into what is still his most famous work: The Americans. His was an America nobody had seen before, and if it was harshly criticized upon publication for its portrait of a divided country, the collection gradually grew to be recognized as a transformative American vision. And then he turned his back on certain success, giving up photography to reinvent himself as a film and video maker. Frank helped found the American independent cinema of the 1960s and made a legendary film with the Rolling Stones. Today, the nonagenarian is an embodiment of restless creativity and a symbol of what it costs to remain original in America, his life defined by never repeating himself, never being satisfied. "American Witness" is a definitive portrait of a singular artist and the country that he saw, making it unreservedly recommended, especially for community and academic library Contemporary American Biography collections in general, and Robert Frank supplemental studies reading lists in particular. It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "AmericanWitness" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $23.99).

East of the Rockies: The Les Morgan Story
Jeannette Morgan Yim & Les Morgan
Sweetgrass Books
c/o Farcountry Press
PO Box 5630, Helena, MT 59604
www.farcountrypress.com
9781591521983, $16.95, PB, 128pp, www.amazon.com

On first meeting him, Les Morgan seems to be just a deeply humble, sweet, gentle, and seemingly simple Montana man. But there has been nothing simple or easy about the journey that has shaped him into the survivor he is today. "East of the Rockies: The Les Morgan Story" is a compelling and informative memoir in which Les takes us into his life from as early as he can remember, recalling experiences starting as young as two years old, and he gives us the reality of what it was like being raised with a speech problem by a 1st Special Service Forces veteran father, a devout and quiet Catholic mother, and five sisters and brothers. Through his love of music, Les overcomes his childhood struggles, then loses his first love to cancer, raises three children as a widower, has a son on the autism spectrum, and eventually finds love again. Subtly profound and poignant, this is a deeply personal story about abuse, loss, grief, forgiveness, healing, triumph, perseverance, and finding happiness despite hardships. Interviewed over several years by his loving sister Jeannette, these two siblings enrich their already unbreakable bond by diving into his journey together. "East of the Rockies: The Les Morgan Story" is unreservedly recommended for both community and academic library Contemporary American Biography collections and personal reading lists.


The Fishing Shelf

Trout Streams Of Western New York
J. Michael Kelly
Burford Books, Inc.
101 East State Street, #301, Ithaca, NY 14850
www.burfordbooks.com
9781580801829, $18.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com

A veteran angler, J. Michael Kelly was the outdoors columnist for the Syracuse Post-Standard for sixteen years and has contributed thousands of articles for a wide variety of outdoors publications. Western New York State is home to some of the finest trout fishing in the United States, from major rivers with massive brown trout to the most intimate streams home to wild brookies. In "Trout Streams Of Western New York: Locations, Strategies and Techniques for All Anglers" Kelly draws upon his years of experience, research and expertise about angling for trout in the Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Southern Tier regions to provide beginners and local experts alike with the essential ingredients for great fishing, including clear directions to more than 50 top-notch streams in six counties and Allegany State Park. Kelly brings his angling mastery to large trout waters like the serpentine Ischua Creek north of Olean, the upper Genesee River and its no-kill area near Wellsville and the scenic, wild-fish-only Wiscoy Creek in southern Wyoming County, and many more, with precise instructions on where, when and how to catch fish with both fly and spinning tackle. The most effective techniques and equipment are covered in full, along with go-to flies for the fly fisherman. Of special note is Kelly's promotion of a conservation crusade on behalf of natural resources which need, above all else, some well-motivated friends. Simply stated, "Trout Streams Of Western New York: Locations, Strategies and Techniques for All Anglers" is an ideal and thoroughly 'user friendly' planning guide for anyone wanting to fish the waters of Western New York.


The Sports Shelf

The First Season
Bob Duff
Biblioasis
1520 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor, ON N9A 3L2, Canada
www.biblioasis.com
9781771961844 $15.95 / $9.25 Kindle amazon.com

Sports journalist Bob Duff (who is a contributor to "The Hockey News", HockyBuzz.com, NHL.com, and more) presents The First Season: 1917-18 and the Birth of the NHL, a history of the first year of the National Hockey League. The NHL has just reached a centennial, but in its very first year it almost died out. Conceived during The Great War (which would later be known as World War I), the NHL was originally a new league created to break away from despised Toronto owner Eddie Livingstone. Yet one crisis after another buffeted the nascent hockey league, from a scarcity of talented players due to military conscription, to divided loyalties among fans, to the fire that consumed the Montreal Arena that was home to two teams. An amazing glimpse into true-life sports history and the colorful people who shaped it, The First Season is a "must-read" for hockey enthusiasts and highly recommended for public and college library sports collections.


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