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Reviewer's Choice
Door to the River
Aram Saroyan
David R. Godine Publisher
PO Box 450, Jaffrey, NH 03452
9781567923964, $17.95, www.blacksparrowbooks.com
Overcoming the shadow of one's father is the goal of many sons. "Door to the River: Essays & Reviews from the 1960s into the Digital Age" is a collection of writings from a kid of the 60s with an overbearing father. Author Aram Saroyan has since had success as a novelist and playwright, fueled by the drive to become his own writer. Covering his work throughout his life and including discussions of America after the September 11th, 2001 attacks, Saroyan provides an intellectual and scholarly set of thoughts. An excellent addition to literature and literary criticism collections, "Door to the River" is highly valuable.
The Fiction Shelf
Spanish Grant
L. L. Foreman
Sagebrush
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230
West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9780753187418, $29.99, www.amazon.com
Clearly, L. L. Foreman is a gifted storyteller with a genuine knack for spinning an Old West yarn
that has action-adventure at its most spellbinding. In "Spanish Grant" we have a cowboy, Rory
Ballinashawn, who has a poker game grudge against Rogue Bishop that can only be settled by
gunplay. Just as they are about to settle things between them out in the bush, some outlaws
holding up a stagecoach distract them. It doesn't help matters when a second gang show up to
pull a young woman from the stage and make off with her. Despite their mutual grudge, Rogue
and Rory both hold to the western notion about defending women folk and so begins their rescue
which will hold many a twist and turn before it ends with guns blazing! A riveting read, this
Sagebrush publication of "Spanish Grant" is a large print edition making it an especially
recommended addition to community library collections.
The Crepe Makers' Bond
Julie Crabtree
Milkweed Editions
1011 Washington Avenue South, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55415
9781571316936, $16.95, www.milkweed.org
At the end of childhood and at the birth of independence, it all lies on the line. "The Crepe
Makers' Bond" follows a group of friends as they unite in the last year of middle school, trying to
escape the control of their parents and live their own lives. A coming of age novel that encourages
readers to remember friendship and what comes with it, "The Crepe Makers' Bond" is a strongly
recommended read and gift to any young adult reader facing their own adulthood soon.
The Lightkeeper's Ball
Colleen Coble
Thomas Nelson
PO Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
The B&B Media Group (publicity)
ajennings@tbbmedia.com
9781595542687, $14.99, www.tbbmedia.com
For many of a failing family, marriage is the only path to comfort. "The Lightkeeper's Ball" is the
story of a failing American rich family. The Stewart's family's fortune depends on good marriage,
as young Olivia must take her deceased sister's place to marry one Harrison Bennett, her dead
sisters fiance. Using an old English title, Olivia finds herself going across the country as Lady
Devonworth, and must find that hand. But challenged with keeping up a deception and finding the
truth about her sister, as well as her faith, "The Lightkeeper's Ball" is a thoughtful blend of
nineteenth century romance and high society, with a positive Christian message blended in as
well.
This Thing Called the Future
J. L. Powers
Cinco Puntos Press
701 Texas Avenue, El Paso, TX 79901
9781933693958, $16.95, www.cincopuntos.com
Education is key, especially when trying to free yourself and your family from superstition. "This
Thing Called the Future" is a novel following young Khosi as she faces the town of
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, her hometown. As her grandmother seems to waste away and
superstition dominates her mother, Khosi finds it on herself to try to stay on school, as it's her and
her grandmother's hope of ever finding a better life for her and her sister. "This Thing Called the
Future" is a fine work of international fiction, painting a vivid picture of shantytown life in
Southern Africa.
A Bouquet of Barbed Wire
Andrea Newman
Serpent's Tail
c/o Profile Books
sarah.ward@profilebooks.com
9781846687723, $14.95, www.serpentstail.com
One sour event can spiral a family spinning out of control. "A Bouquet of Barbed Wire" is a
family drama novel adapted from the Independent Television show in the United Kingdom
following Peter Manson and the crumbling nature of his family after his daughter conceives a child
by a man he despises. Riveting intrigue of familial crisis, "A Bouquet of Barbed Wire" will grip
readers and not let go, and prove as a catalyst to watch the television program.
The I.O.U.
Elle
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
9781593093457, $12.00, www.simonandschuster.com
Even as you pass middle age, there may be some growing up to do yet. "The I.O.U." follows
Lena Macy, as she faces her boring reality as her lust isn't sated. When a stranger enters her life
and shows her the spark she may need to sate her desires, she realizes a lot about herself and what
surrounds her as she tries to compromise her good upbringing with her most primal desires. "The
I.O.U." is a fun and riveting erotic novel, highly recommended.
Another Dawn
Kathryn Cushman
Bethany House
c/o Baker
11400 Hampshire Ave S., Bloomington, MN 55438
9780764208256, $14.99, www.bethanyhouse.com
No one can run forever, and the longer you run, the bigger the problems you face when you stop.
"Another Dawn" follows Grace Graham, a woman who has faced every crisis in her life by fleeing
from it. But as her sister tries to plea with her to return home to care for her sick father, she is met
with an ultimatum, face the problems she left behind or lose them all forever. Choosing to face all
she left behind, she finds that the urge to flee will become stronger than ever. "Another Dawn" is
an excellent contemporary novel that will resonate with many readers.
The Bed Book of Short Stories
Joanne Hichens
Modjaji Books
c/o Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Rd., Rm 25, East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
9781920397319, $29.95, www.msupress.msu.edu
A bed is the centerpiece for much of our lives. "The Bed Book of Short Stories" is a collection of
stories compiled by Joanne Hichens who presents stories from a wide array of authors who speak
on the bed from the innocence of a good night's rest to the spiciness of the love making to the
tragedy of death. With a strong topic and many ways to go, "The Bed Book of Short Stories" is
an excellent pick and solid addition to any general short fiction collection.
A Port in the Storm
Judy Genandt
Gale Cengage Learning
200 First Stamford Place, Stamford, CT 06902
9781594149511, $25.95, www.cengage.com
To cut your own path through life is all one can really hope for. "A Port in the Storm" is the story
of Margaret Ward, rebellious woman of 1885, who sets out to make her own way throughout her
life in her small Wyoming town, coming from Boston. Pursuing love from a local heir, her
boldness makes her friends and costs her but never leaves her bored. "A Port in the Storm" is a
fun work of romance and historical fiction, recommended reading.
The Memoir Shelf
Major Dream
Dr. Jin Kyu (Suh) Robertson
Privately Published
9781460989425 $14.95 http://housemaidetoharvard.blogspot.com
Major Dream: From Immigrant Housemaid to Harvard PhD, Volume 1 is the debut American
memoir (her Korean memoir has already been quite successful at a half-million copies sold) of a
Korean-born woman whose career has spanned the gamut from factory girl, waitress, and
housemaid to US Army Major and radio talk show host. In her story, she speaks of how to
improve one's own life by seeking out opportunity and working to achieve one's dream. A handful
of black-and-white photographs illustrate this inspirational life story of dedication and the drive to
succeed.
Far Out Isn't Far Enough
Tomi Ungerer
Phaidon
180 Varick Street, Fourteenth Floor, New York, NY 10014
9780714860770, $29.95, www.phaidon.com
They thought they could escape it all. They weren't successful. "Far Out Isn't Far Enough" is a
memoir from graphical illustrator Tomi Ungerer as he recollects his decision to leave New York
City for Gull Harbor, Nova Scotia. Telling the story of adapting to rural life, he brings a tale that
it isn't all that different. Tales of livestock, agriculture going awry are the meat of his tale. Along
with the illustrations done by Ungerer himself, "Far Out Isn't Far Enough" is certainly a humorous
read that won't be easy to be put down once picked up.
Finding Balance
Sue Hickey
Demos Health
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10036
9781936303144, $19.95, www.demoshealth.com
When standing on you own volition is a challenge all its own, life can prove quite difficult.
"Finding Balance: Healing from a Decade of Vestibular Disorders" is a health memoir from Sue
Hickey, who speaks on her own experiences with Vestibular disorders, a broad name that covers
many conditions such as vertigo, balance issues, and more. Learning to live life with them is the
route many must take until they discover the treatment for them, "Finding Balance" is a fine read,
and very much recommended reading for those with the disorder, or have family with it.
Gray Matter
David Levy
Tyndale
10152 S. Knoll Circle, Highlands Rach, CO 80130
9781414339757, $14.99, www.tyndale.com
When you understand so much science behind the human brain, it can be hard to grasp the
concept of a soul behind it all. "Grey Matter" is a memoir with a bit of faith from David Levy, a
medical doctor who specializes in Neurosurgery. Through plying his trade, Levy has found as
lives lie in his hands, the power of prayer and faith has a profound effect on many lives of his
patients in such a way that it has inspired him in a way. "Grey Matter" is a fascinating look at faith
and its effects and inspirations on those who have taken the job of saving lives.
Roses For Marie
Ron Clement DeLelles
Jenkins Group
1129 Woodmere Ave., Suite B, Traverse, City, MI 49686
9780615354071, $18.99
Life was much different a hundred years ago, yet much the same. "Roses for Marie: A
Remarkable Journey of Discovery in Bulgaria" is a unique recollection from Ron Clement
DeLelles as he speaks on the history of his family, telling the story of his grandparents, freshly
immigrated to America in a new world and pursuing their own view of the American dream.
Drawing on his own visit to his homeland, the story he shares is touching, warm, with a reverence
for the Bulgarian culture and the drive of parents to give better lives for their children. "Roses for
Marie" is a unique and fascinating work of memoir, very highly recommended.
Keep True
Howard Pawley
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College, Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R3T 2M5
9780887557248, $27.95, www.uofmpress.ca
It takes much to stay resilient in a rapidly changing time. "Keep True: A Life in Politics" is the
memoir of Howard Pawley, who served his province Manitoba for the better part of two decades,
serving as Premier, the highest office in the province for a period of that time. Facing a national
crisis in Canada, the Quebec separatists, human rights, military, facing scandal, and much more,
"Keep True" offers insight into the drive of Canadian politics, very highly recommended
reading.
The Business Shelf
Awaken, Align, Accelerate
Scott E. Nelson & Jason G. Ortmeier
Beaver's Pond Press
7104 Ohms Lane, Suite 101, Edina, MN 55439
9781592983919, $75.00, www.beaverspondpress.com
With the right man in the driver's seat, something good can become great. "Awaken, Align,
Accelerate: A Guide to Great Leadership" is a guide and compilation of thought on how one
becomes a truly great leader in the business world. A good business leader must truly believe in
the product, and must be driven to push it to succeed. Stating that becoming a good leader is not
something simply that happens overnight and must be grown into, Scott Nelson and Jason
Ortmeier bring their counseling experience to the table. A good leader must be able to push
themselves further as they push others, be quick to make good decisions, realizing what is and
isn't working as well as avoiding conflict. Packed cover to cover with plenty of principles
elaborately explained, "Awaken, Align, Accelerate" is a must for any business trying to inspire its
managers and leaders to greater heights, a core resource for any Business studies community and
college library collection with a focus on leadership.
The Retail Doctor's Guide to Growing Your Business
Bob Phibbs
Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
9780470587171, $19.95, www.wiley.com
When your business is stagnate, a quick diagnosis and cure is needed to prevent any long term
damage to growth. "The Retail Doctor's Guide to Growing Your Business: A Step-By-Step
Approach to Quickly Diagnose, Treat, and Cure" is a guide to making one's business succeed by
identifying the problems and fixing them swiftly and effectively. Suggesting renovations of
business model to increase profit, using the Internet, how personality plays into it, avoiding panic,
and much more, "The Retail Doctor's Guide to Growing Your Business" is a must for anyone
who wants to make their retail business flourish, highly recommended.
The Christian Studies Shelf
Psalter
William Baer
Truman State University
100 E. Normal Ave., Kirksville, MO 63501
9781935503101, $15.95, www.tsup.truman.edu
Faith has driven people for generations. "Psalter: A Sequence of Catholic Sonnets" is a collection
of religious poetry in sonnet form as William Baer dedicates his faith with a certain drive and
faith, and comes with love and spirit among it all. "Psalter" is a top pick for any Catholic who also
has a taste for poetry, highly recommended. "David": The putrid sea lies right beneath my
cave,/and the stinking rising sulfur burns my eyes,/for nothing can survive in this smoldering
grave,/where every bird and plant and creature dies,/where even the valleys and the hills are
dead;/for this is "desolation," a world apart,/with the Mountain of Sodom looming straight
ahead,/where all is dark and barren like my heart./Lord, help me in my lonely, useless life,/hunted
by the king, like a treacherous slave,/without my friends, my brothers, or my wife,/just waiting to
be slaughtered in my cave./O Lord, I know not what to do,/so in this valley of death I turn to
You.
The Emergent Christ
Ilia Delio
Orbis Books
Price Bldg, Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545
9781570759086, $22.00, www.orbisbooks.com
Evolution is not wholly incompatible with Christian theology. "The Emergent Christ: Exploring
the Meaning of Catholic in an Evolutionary Universe" seeks to reconcile evolution and Catholic
theology, stating that God's intention and power are the power behind evolutionary theory, and
that clinging the to the teachings of Aristotle is archaic and dated. Coming at readers with a sure
to be controversial collection of theology, science, and much more, "The Emergent Christ" will
enlighten and grant credence to faith in today's world where it seems everything is explained more
and more by science.
5 Spiritual Solutions for Everyday Parenting Challenges
Richard and Linda Eyre
Deseret Book Company
PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130
9781606419335, $19.99, www.deseretbook.com
Parenting is a challenging aspect for anyone, regardless of faith. "5 Spiritual Solutions for
Everyday Parenting Challenges" is a guide to Mormon parenting from Richard and Linda Eyre as
they channel faith to help parents through the most daunting task that they will face in their lives -
parenting. Offering takes from typical Mormon wisdom, the Eyres offer many suggestions for the
many problems that come from child rearing, from rebellion, boredom, siblings, and much more.
"5 Spiritual Solutions for Everyday Parenting Challenges" is a strong pick for Mormon parents,
although the wisdom may ring strong regardless of faith.
Particular Examen
James F. McElhone
Roman Catholic Books
PO Box 255, Harrison, NY 10528
9781934888193, $17.95
No one is perfect, and solving that flaw is what brings one closer to Christ. "Particular Examen" is
a book of faith written by Father James F. McElhone as he speaks on the weaknesses we each
have and how to correct them by embracing faith, and overcoming them. To make a more perfect
self is the path of the saint, and McElhone speaks well on helping readers go down that path in
their lives. "Particular Examen" is a choice pick for any Catholic who views self-improvement as
an excellent virtue.
Behaving in Public
Nigel Biggar
Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
2140 Oak Industrial Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802864000, $16.00, www.eerdmans.com
To be preachy is to be rejected, but one should not completely hide their faith in everyday life.
"Behaving in Public: How to Do Christian Ethics" discusses Christianity and its place in the
modern debate and public forum. Nigel Biggar seeks to marry common sense and nature with
religious discussion, something that many Christians feel split by, breaking between their faith and
their morality often. With much to think about for any theological thinker, "Behaving in Public" is
a core addition to any modern Christian studies collection.
Growing Kingdom Character
Tom Yeakley
Nav Press
PO Box 35001, Colorado Springs, CO 80935
9781615216147, $12.99, www.navpress.com
The Bible provides many exceptional characters, and many exceptional leaders. "Growing
Kingdom Character: Practical, Intentional Tools for Developing Leaders" teaches readers on how
to look to the Bible, learn from its lessons and create good leadership in oneself and others, in life,
and in business. Drawing strongly on faith with plenty of practical advice, "Growing Kingdom
Character" is sage wisdom that shouldn't be overlooked by any everyday leader of men.
Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary
J. D. Douglas & Marrill C. Tenney
Zondervan
5300 Patterson Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49530
9780310229834, $29.99, www.zondervan.com
The Bible, regardless of one's faith, is one of the most important written works in world history.
"Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary: The Most Accurate and Comprehensive One-Volume
Bible Dictionary Available" is a comprehensive Biblical study as Zondervan presents and
alphabetical glossary of the countless characters, places, items, and other concepts that are
present throughout the old and new testaments. With well over seven thousand entries and color
photos of the historical locations and relics, "Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary" is an
excellent pick for any studious Christian and for community and college library collections with a
focus on Christianity.
At Home with God
Gavin Long
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568, Orleans, MA 02653
9781557256850, $26.99, www.paracletepress.com
God is not something to be considered only for Sunday. "At Home with God" is a reference guide
to finding faith and God in everyday life, with daily considerations to remember in life to find God
and spirituality in faith in every avenue. With plenty of ideas and prayers for mealtimes,
gatherings, and more, "At Home with God" is a guide for anyone who wants to bring God into a
more prominent role around their home and in their life.
Answers to Common Questions About The End Times
Timothy J. Demy & Thomas Ice
Kregel Publications
733 Wealthy Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
9780825426582, $9.99, www.kregel.com
The end will come at some time or another, but when is a question that leaves way too many
questions being asked. "Answers to Common Questions About the End Times" is
a discussion of the end of the world and what does the Bible truly say about it. Discussed by Bible
teachers and scholars Timothy Demy and Thomas Ice, they discuss rapture, the second coming,
and the reality of heaven and hell. "The End Times" is worth considering for those who want to
understand Revelations through the eyes of scholarship, highly recommended.
The Biography Shelf
Black Sheep
John F. Wukovits
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591149774 $34.95 www.navalinstitute.org
Military historian John F. Wukovits presents Black Sheep: The Life of Pappy Boyington, an
in-depth biography of U.S. Marine Gregory "Pappy" Boyington, who served in the Pacific theater
during World War II. From his tumultuous early life, marked by abusive parents and a succession
of family moves, to his military career and his membership as one of the Flying Tigers in Burma
and China, to his legendary exploits as a Corsair pilot in the South Pacific and his time in Japanese
prison camps, Black Sheep paints the picture of an extraordinary fighter in every sense of the
word. Wukovits maintains that Boyington's performance record was lacking among the Flying
Tigers because they considered him an outsider; but when he was in command of the Black Sheep
Squadron, he excelled as a teacher and leader, and his squadron was one of the most successful in
the Pacific. Black Sheep is enthusiastically recommended as a vibrant and unforgettable portrait of
a gifted World War II ace. Also from Naval Institute Press is the highly recommended "Battle
Surface!" (9781591145325, $34.95), an in-depth chronicle of the military service of the USS
Parce and its dedicated crew.
John Romano & George Engel
Jules Cohen & Stephanie Brown Clark
University of Rochester Press
668 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620-2731
9781580462952, $50.00, www.urpress.com
A lifetime of study leads to major progress of a science. "John Romano & George Engel: Their
Lives & Work" looks at these two physicians who spent fifty years in the University of
Rochester's Medical school faculty and offered much to furthering the training and status of their
students and the profession. Tracing both of their life's story, their educational history, and
interviews with those who knew them. A fascinating study into the men of medicine and what
drove their dedication to the science and teaching, "John Romano & George Engel" is an ideal
addition to biography collections with a focus on education and medicine.
Cordelia Harvey
Bob Kann
Wisconsin Historical Society Press
816 State Street, Madison, WI 53706
9780870204586, $12.95, www.wisconsinhistory.org
Patriotism knows no gender, but in the Civil War, women could not bear arms. "Cordelia Harvey: Civil War Angel" is an entry in the Badger Biographies Series, following one particular woman who jumped at the chance to do her part in serving the Union. Through it all, she helped pushed the Union to build a military hospital and soldier's home. Bob Kann shows her story, and makes for a unique tale of forgotten history. "Cordelia Harvey" is a solid addition to any Civil War and biography collection. Also in the Badger Biographies Series is "Lucius Fairchild: Civil War Hero" (9780870204609, $12.95), telling the story of a businessman turned warrior.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
Smoke Damage
Michael Schwalbe
Borderland Books
c/o University of Wisconsin Press
publicity@uwpress.wisc.edu
9780981562087, $19.95, www.uwpress.wisc.edu
A war fought with smoke instead of bullets still has casualties. "Smoke Damage: Voices from the
Front Lines of America's Tobacco Wars" chronicles the stories of those who have been affected
from tobacco and what damage has been felt. From those who have survived cancer, those who
have lost loved ones, lawmakers, farmers, and many others. Each entry brings forth a piece of
evidence into the puzzle of the relationships of Americans and tobacco. "Smoke Damage" is a
thoughtful study of modern tobacco, enthusiastically recommended.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Sisters in the Faith
Glendyne R. Wergland
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
9781558498631 $24.95 www.umass.edu/umpress
Independent scholar Glendyne R. Wergland presents Sisters in the Faith: Shaker Women and
Equality of the Sexes, an extensively researched examination of the celibate Shaker faith, which
deliberately attempted to institutionalize equality of the sexes after the passing of its founder
Mother Ann Lee in 1788. Sisters scrutinizes the results, and the amount of success the Shakers
had in achieving this goal. Chapters discuss why women joined the Shakers, how those outside
the community perceived them, the degree to which gender limitations concerning daily work
were lifted, and which gender-based conflicts remained intractable. Of particular interest is how
strong visions - a hallmark of the Shaker faith - were sometimes used as a means to wield power
or expel members from the church. Ultimately, however, Wergland concludes that the Shaker
model was a trailblazing example of women's rights, especially during a patriarchal cultural era of
America's history. A superb addition to religious history and women's studies shelves, highly
recommended.
Gods Behaving Badly
Pete Ward
Baylor University
One Bear Place, #97363, Waco, TX 76798-7363
9781602581500, $24.95, www.baylorpress.com
Who needs God when you have Entertainment Tonight? "Gods Behaving Badly: Media, Religion,
and Celebrity Culture" looks at the culture in today's society surrounding celebrity and how some
have taken the celebrity world as a new Bible, embracing their lives and following them closely.
Not a condemnation for Ungodliness, Pete Ward instead hopes to explore this intriguing version
of culture that has been embraced by the western world, and the parallels to traditional religious
faith. "Gods Behaving Badly" is an intriguing and very scholarly read, highly recommended for
anyone who looks at the celebrity culture with an inquisitive eye.
Humanity
Michael Ipgrave & David Marshall
Georgetown University Press
3420 Prospect Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007
9781589017160, $24.95, www.press.georgetown.edu
No matter what god or lack of god we look to, there is no changing the fact that we are all
human. "Humanity: Texts and Contexts, Christian and Muslim Perspectives" is a meeting of many
Christian and Muslim speakers, as they met in 2007 under the guidance of Georgetown University
and the Archbishop of Canterbury. The discussion is aimed not at God, but of humanity, as they
use both spirituality, logic, and differing world view to create a truly unique discussion.
"Humanity" is a scholarly read for anyone who ponders the nature of man, and an excellent
addition to community and college library religion and philosophy collections.
Great American Catholic Eulogies
Carol DeChant
ACTA Publications
4848 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60640
9780879464493, $29.95, www.actapublications.com
A eulogy is one last dedication to the memory of someone dear. "Great American Catholic
Eulogies" traces the history of Catholicism in America through its eulogies through the country's
few centuries of existence. Carol DeChant presents these speeches to show the progression and
brand of Catholicism that America has made its own. Those eulogized are from many walks of
life, painting a wide picture of how American Catholics remember. With a foreword by Thomas
Lynch, known for his work with HBO Program Six Feet Under, "Great American Catholic
Eulogies" is a thoughtful and intriguing look at American Catholicism, a core addition to Religion
and Christianity collections.
The New Trinity
Jack Burch
DeVorss Publications
PO Box 25061, Albuquerque, NM 87125
9780875168616, $18.95, www.devorss.com
The concepts of spirituality have a trinity all their own. "The New Trinity: Your Secular Pathway
to Personal Spirituality" is Jack Burch's own wisdom and advice to creating one's own spirituality
separate from, but not excluding religious faith. He presents his own journey through spirituality
and how he found his own enlightenment that was separate from what one normally faces with
faith. Driven and spiritual writing for anyone looking for enlightenment that is definitely human,
"The New Trinity" may be exactly what readers are seeking.
How to Be a Perfect Stranger
Stuart M. Matlins & Arthur J. Magida
Skylight Paths
PO Box 237, Sunset Farms Offices, Rt. 4, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781594732942, $19.99, www.skylightpaths.com
Very few in this world understand every faith perfectly. "How to Be a Perfect Stranger: The
Essential Religious Etiquette Handbook" is a guide to living a religious diverse society, such as is
apparent in the United States. Stuart M. Matlins & Arthur J. Magida compile a collection of
wisdom on the many faiths of the world that will often be encountered, granting a crash course in
what is appropriate when visiting people of such faiths, taking part in a celebration, and other
tenets of faith. "How to Be a Perfect Stranger" is a solid and recommended exploration of faith for
those who don't want to appear clueless or offensive.
Peace a Day at a Time
Karen Casey
Conari Press
c/o Red Wheel, Weiser, Conari, Hampton Roads
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
9781573242677, $14.95, www.redwheelweiser.com
Wisdom is not something that comes all at once. "Peace a Day at a Time: 365 Meditations for
Wisdom and Serenity" is a collection of a year's worth of affirmations from Karen Casey, who
with each day of the year, comes at readers with a virtue, an elaboration and a quote, each
discussing many angles of one's life. "Peace a Day at a Time" is a fine pick for those who want a
bit of sage advice every single day of the year.
The Social Issues Shelf
Final Rights
Joshua Slocum & Lisa Carlson
Upper Access Inc.
87 Upper Access Road, Hinesburg, VT 05461
9780942679342, $19.95, www.upperaccess.com
Death has been stripping people of the dignity it once has, thanks to profiteers seeing your corpse
as a dollar sign. "Final Rights: Reclaiming the American Way of Death" delves into the death
industry and its exploitation of grieving families. Stating that one can control and fight this
exploitation before they passed on, or encouraging funeral processions outside of a funeral home.
Joshua Slocum & Lisa Carlson provide intellectual approach to the grieving process so one
doesn't have to mourn their money as well as their loved one. "Final Rights" is a must to be
considered for anyone who wants to be prepared for the unfortunate.
We Were Not Orphans
Sherry Matthews
University of Texas Press
PO Box 7819, Austin, TX 78713-7819
9780292725591, $29.95, www.utexaspress.com
When no one claims you, responsibility falls to the state, and the state is not always the best
parental figure. "We Were Not Orphans: Stories from the Waco State Home" is a study from
Sherry Matthews, who reflects on her own experiences with the home, and speaks to those who
formerly called the place home. Through it all, she found the sad reality of abuse and strict
discipline during the formative years, and those who remember their childhood there fondly. An
intriguing collection of stories of the impact a state home has on many children, "We Were Not
Orphans" is a choice addition to any social issues collection with an added focus on history.
Kids First
David L. Kirp
Public Affairs Books
250 West 57th Street, Suite 1321, New York, NY 10107
9781586489472, $24.99, www.publicaffairsbooks.com
If there's no future, there is no point. "Kids First: Five Big Ideas for Transforming Children's Lives
and America's Future" discusses what needs to be done to help the future of America, by
improving the situation that children grow into to help them live up to the their full potential.
David L. Kirp writes that this process starts even before conception, by making the parental
experience one that is less punishing. From making the most of those formative years, to a wider
availability of college education to those who wish to seek it, "Kids First" is an excellent read on
what needs to be done to ensure a more glowing future for America and the rest of the
world.
The Travel Shelf
Touring the Carolinas' Civil War Sites, second edition
Clint Johnson
John F. Blair, Publisher
1406 Plaza Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
9780895874030 $19.95 www.blairpub.com
Maps and black-and-white photographs pepper Touring the Carolinas' Civil War Sites, a blend of
history and travel guide to historic places in North and South Carolina. Now in an updated second
edition, Touring the Carolinas' Civil War Sites features 21 tours. A user-friendly guide, Touring
the Carolinas' Civil War Sites is enthusiastically recommended both for visitors to the Carolinas
and for armchair travelers interested in vicariously re-living pivotal moments in American military
history. Also highly recommended for Civil War tourists is Johnson's "Touring Virginia's and
West Virginia's Civil War Sites" (9780895874023, $19.95), also in a newly updated second
edition.
Over the Hill
Shirley Elder Lyons
Jetty House
c/o Peter E. Randall Published
PO Box 4726, Portsmouth, NH 03802-4726
9780982823644, $20.00, www.perpublisher.com
Adventure knows no age. "Over the Hill Hikers: And How They Grew...And Grew...and Grew"
tells the story of Shirley Elder Lyons and Elizabeth MacGregor as they share their experiences
traveling long and far in the paths and wilderness in New Hampshire. The pair of retirees attracted
more like them, and Lyons shares her experiences in the group and tells a story of adventure, age,
and community. "Over the Hill Hikers" is a fine read with plenty of wisdom to absorb, highly
recommended.
The Sports Shelf
The Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Tennis, fourth edition
Price World Publishing
1300 W. Belmont Ave., Suite 20G, Chicago, IL 60657
9781932549577, $16.95, www.sportsworkout.com
Tennis is a game more of speed and technique, but strength should not be neglected. "The
Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Tennis" is the fourth edition from Sportsworkout.com,
designed to give advice on strength training for those who take their tennis playing seriously, who
want to build strength without sacrificing speed. Good weight training reduces chance for injury
and allows quicker motor skills, both fine and gross. With advice for training in every step of the
season and off season, "The Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Tennis" is an absolute must
for anyone who wants to step up their tennis game to the next level.
The Athlete's Clock
Thomas W. Rowland
Human Kinetics
PO Box 5076, Champaign, IL 61825-5076
9780736082747, $19.95, www.humankinetics.com
The human body is not a machine meant to run 24/7. "The Athlete's Clock: How Biology and
Time Affect Sport Performance" discusses time and biology and their impact on the athlete.
Breaking down the science of marathons, sprints, and more, Dr. Thomas W. Rowland offers a
deep study in how to build one's body and alter the physiology to better cope with the challenges
of their chosen athletic challenge. Natural rhythm, what happens every second in one's body under
high stress and more make "The Athlete's Clock" an intriguing study and one that is very much
recommended reading for athletes.
The Photography Shelf
Painting with Light
Jan Leonardo Woellert & Joerg Miedza
Rocky Nook
26 West Mission Street Ste 3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
9781933952741, $39.95, www.rockynook.com
Light itself has become our artistic tool. "Painting with Light: Light Art Performance
Photography" delves into this particular discipline of photography, that blends the more traditional
light painting with performance art is a guide to using this practice to create awe inspiring pieces.
Long exposure times, careful choreography, and good setting all blend into something that's
created without digital editing but is quite fascinating in itself. "Painting with Light" is a choice
pick for anyone who wants to use this method to create something truly unique and special by
their own hand.
The American History Shelf
From Slave to Untouchable
Paul Kalra
Antenna Publishing Co.
PO Box 23826, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
9780964717374 $18.95 pbk
9780964717367 $23.95 hc
From Slave to Untouchable: Lincoln's Solution chronicles slavery in the United States, and the
tensions over it that ultimately led to the Civil War. Author Paul Kalra contends that the suffering
of the Civil War could have been avoided had American settlers followed the Catholic slave code,
a system that recognized the humanity of slaves, rather than the dehumanizing Protestant code.
From Slave to Untouchable also contends that the dark legacy of the Constitution that once used
the might of the law to support slaveholders persists in modern times, as African-Americans are
still viewed as "untouchable" second-class citizens by whites. Notes and an index enhance this
stinging indictment of America's history of the deprivation of human liberty.
Iron Will
Terry S. Reynolds & Virginia P. Dawson
Wayne State University Press
4809 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201-1309
9780814335116, $44.95, www.wsupress.wayne.edu
It takes a certain fortitude to call piles of rock and danger a workplace. "Iron Will:
Cleveland-Cliffs and the Mining of Iron Ore, 1847-2006" looks at the mining community and
history that emerged from Cleveland, with the only surviving independent mining company in
America in the Cleveland-Cliffs company which operated for well over a century. Through
depression and war, the story of the company is a unique picture of the shifts of American
business and society. A studious and scholarly history that has a message far bigger than one
company and one town, "Iron Will" is a fine addition to any American history collection especially
those with a focus on business.
The World History Shelf
Abandoned Mansions of Ireland
Tarquin Blake
The Collins Press
DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781848890619, $52.95, www.dufouredtions.com
With a history as vast as Ireland's, there are plenty of relics of its vast past. "Abandoned Mansions
of Ireland" is a photography book packed with the history behind these buildings and what led to
their fates. A combination of ruin exploration and urban exploration, these ruins are from
hundreds of years ago to a few years ago. Each page is presented in full color with the story of
the subject matter explained. For anyone with an interest in ruins of the past and present,
"Abandoned Mansions of Ireland" should prove to be an endlessly fascinating coffee table
work.
The Computer Shelf
Step by Step
Elena Kosinska and Chris Leeds
O'Reilly Media
1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472
9780735639010, $44.99, www.oreilly.com
When learning doesn't feel like a job, it's much easier to embrace. "Step by Step: Microsoft
Expression Blend 4" is a guide to learning how to use the Microsoft Silverlight programming tool
Expression Blend to create the application with the features they desire. Broke down in an easy to
follow and learn style, authors Elena Koskinska & Chris Leeds seek to present a comprehensive
instructional manual to use Expression to the fullest, with tips on side programming as well. "Step
by Step" is a complete and comprehensive resource for anyone looking to get the most out of
Expression Blend and Silverlight, a must have reference.
The Cookbook Shelf
The Art of Breakfast, How to Bring B & B Entertaining Home
Dana Moos
Down East Books
PO Box 679, Camden, ME 04843
9780892729401, $28.95, www.downeast.com
Inspired by the menus of Bed and Breakfast establishments known for pampering their clientele,
"The Art of Breakfast" contains many frankly fancy or unusual imaginative recipes for
scrumptious breakfast entrees. For the most important meal of the day, and a festive beginning to
any day, try a recipe from "The Art of Breakfast." The stunning color photographs are wonderful
page turners, tempting the reader to try many unusual brunch entrees. Chapters are divided into
the fruit course, sweet and savory entrees, baked goods, side dishes and garnishes, sauces, syrups
and flavored butters, and guest gifts and menus. How about Pineapple, Cherry and Pecan Cheese
Crepes? Or Chive and Cream Cheese Scrambled Eggs in Wonton Cups? In the baked goods
section is a recipe for Blueberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies that is a story of persistence in its
making. Some of the creative sides are Roasted Fennel Bulbs, Chilled Asparagus with Curry Lime
Aioli, and Roasted Tomato and Swiss Tart. Unusual sauces, syrups and butters can transform an
ordinary breakfast menu, and the Guest Gift and Menus provide the frosting on the B & B cake.
For the hostess who wishes to pamper her guests, "The Art of Breakfast" is the perfect culinary
inspiration.
The Wild Blueberry Book
Virginia M. Wright
Down East Books
PO Box 679, Camden, ME 04843
9780892729395, $14.95, www.downeast.com
"The Wild Blueberry Book" is a fascinating combination of fun facts and history about Maine's wild blueberry crops and fabulous, imaginative recipes displaying a full range of applications of the wild blueberry's versatility as a healthful, natural, delicious food. Filled with color photos and illustrations and fascinating anecdotes about the harvesting of the wild blueberry, "The Wild Blueberry Book" is sure to entice newcomers to the blue tasty fruits to try them in recipes and to visit the only state where they are commercially harvested. There is nothing like the flavor of the tiny wild blueberry. And there are so many different varieties, each more tasty than the last! Star recipes are found for Duck Breast with Wild Blueberry Sauce, Blueberry Cobbler, and surprisingly, Baked Stuffed Lobster. The serious production of blueberries and the serious competition of the Blueberry Pie Wars must be seen to be believed. "The Wild Blueberry Book" is as great a gift to tourism as it is to culinary creations. From the blue ribbon recipes to the memoirs of a family who plans vacations annually to participate in the blueberry harvest, "The Wild Blueberry Book" is all about experiencing the wild blueberry where it grows best.
Quick & Easy Christmas
Vickie Hutchins and Jo Ann Martin, editors
Gooseberry Patch
2500 Farmers Dr., #110, Columbus, Ohio 43235
9781936283781, $16.95, www.gooseberrypatch.com
"Quick & Easy Christmas" is the latest collection of scrumptious holiday recipes from Gooseberry
Patch. Featuring recipes for breakfast and brunch, snacks and appetizers, soups, sides, and salads,
mains, desserts, and slow cooker, "Quick & Easy Christmas" has something delicious and easy to
prepare for every holiday entertainment need. For such a festive, busy time of year, these are the
perfect stress reducers - a winning backlist of fabulous foods that are wonderfully easy to pull
together in that very busy 24-day period. Particularly appealing and praised for its flexibility is the
section titled Slow Cooker." Here are pages of mouth-watering main courses that can be easily
thrown into the crock pot and left to simmer to perfection whil running off to do any of the other
myriad delightful tasks and activities that be-gem the season. From the classic Wacky Beef Roast
to the Creamy Rice Pudding, these recipes fill out the need for a hot and tasty meal from
beginning to end. Of course there are also festive holiday desserts and confections, Holiday
Cranberry Trifle, Chocolate Fudge Pie, and Eggnog Cake are just a few that sound exquisitely
tempting. All recipes are attractively presented with description, charming homey illustrations in
black and whiteand green, and clear instructions, as well as including special extra tips and ideas
for Christmas activities and crafts. "Quick & Easy Christmas" is an attractive, sturdy, plastic spiral-bound recipe collection that is sure to please all palates and become a classic Christmas cooking
resource.
At My Grandmother's Knee
Faye Porter
Thomas Nelson Publishers
P.O. Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
9781401600365, $24.99, www.thomasnelson.com
"At My Grandmother's Knee: Recipes and Memories Handed Down by Women of the South" is a
nostalgic recipe and memory collection that draws on a variety of Southern home cooking
traditions. A celebration of many grandmothers' favorite culinary creations, "At My
Grandmother's Knee" is as tempting to the palate as it is to the legions of memories it represents.
In keeping with the theme, each recipe is introduced with a paragraph description of the woman
responsible for creating it. Here we have Granny's Corn Casserole, Ham A La Mamie, Esther's
Apple Cake, and Nanny's Bridal Salad, not to mention Sweet Slaw, Sawdust Salad, B. B.'s Turnip
Greens, and many more. Recipes are divided into 12 categories, including breakfast, breads,
appetizers, side dishes, main dishes, and five separate chapters for different kinds of desserts. It is
impossible to read through "At My Grandmother's Knee" without finding a familiar sounding
recipe that begs to be made and eaten again. Recipes are clearly explained and ingredients are
listed in order of use. Described by the author/editor as "part cookbook and part history book,"
At My Grandmother's Knee" captures the warmth and affection of many a home-cooked meal in
the South.
Authentic Cuban Cuisine
Martha Abreu Cortina
Pelican
1000 Burmaster Street, Gretna, LO 70053
9781589809550, $25.00, www.pelicanpub.com
As they break away from their mother nations and take something from the new land to create
something new entirely. "Authentic Cuban Cuisine" looks at the blend of Hispanic and native
culture that has blended into the Cuban style of cooking. Packed cover to cover with recipes and
full color photos, and much more, each recipe outlines what is needed to produce and comes with
simple instructions. With dishes to suit many tastes and for many meals from breakfast to dessert,
"Authentic Cuban Cuisine" is a must for anyone who wants to try a taste of Cuban cooking.
The New Southern Garden Cookbook
Sheri Castle
The University of North Carolina Press
116 S. Boundary St., Chapel Hill, NC 27514-3808
9780807834657, $35.00, www.uncpress.unc.edu
There is a certain joy to dining on your own months worth of hard work. "The New Southern
Garden Cookbook: Enjoying the Best From Homegrown Gardens, Farmers' Market, Roadside
Stands, & CSA Farm Boxes" is a guide for those who grow their own gardens and want to use
the gardens as a base of deciding what to cook, so that they are always eating fresh throughout
most of the year. Recipes are not for vegetarians only, as they also include some southern style
meat dishes. For many methods and many tastes with easy to follow instructions for Crispy
Chicken Thighs, Yellow Tomato Gazpacho, Blueberry and Pecan Snack Cake, and so much
more, "The New Southern Garden Cookbook" is a resource that no gardening Southern cook
should be without.
Tupelo Honey Cafe
Elizabeth Sims
Andrews McMeel Universal
1130 Walnut Street, Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449400644, $29.99, www.andewsmcmeel.com
A bit of sweetness goes far in making something special. "Tupelo Honey Cafe: Spirited Recipes
from Asheville's New South Kitchen" draws from the recipes of the Tupelo Honey Cafe, which
for the past ten years and change has been making itself a culinary attraction in Asheville, North
Carolina. With its own spin on Southern American classics, Elizabeth Sims follows the kitchen's
focus on local produce and meat, spinning them into something new and flavorful. "Tupelo Honey
Cafe" is a fine cookbook with recipes for every season and every meal of the day, very highly
recommended.
The Education Shelf
You Know The Fair Rule, third edition
Bill Rogers
Australian Council for Educational Research
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 NE 58th Ave. Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213-3786
9780964319746, $39.95, www.isbs.com
Being a good teacher is more than being able to teach the material. "You Know the Fair Rule:
Strategies for Positive and Effective Behaviour Management and Discipline in Schools" is a guide
for teachers who want to create a fair and just syllabus for discipline in their classrooms, as Dr.
Bill Rogers shares his experience at the many levels of education and what can be done to deal
with student anger, keeping discipline consistent through staff, and what to do when dissent and
unruliness seems to be on a much more than individual basis. "You Know the Fair Rule" is full of
useful information for any educator who wants to step up their discipline practices.
The Native American Shelf
The People Are Dancing Again
Charles Wilkinson
University of Washington Press
PO Box 500096, Seattle, WA 98145-5096
9780295990668, $35.00, www.washington.edu/uwpress
Heritage struggles to survive under certain pressure, and the Indians of the Oregon Coast found
this challenge to their existence quite difficult. "The People Are Dancing Again: The History of the
Siletz Tribe of Western Oregon" traces the history of a confederacy of tribes in the Oregon Coast
region who facing cruelty by the then territorial United States Government, struggled to survive
and hold on to what evidence of their ancestors they could. With the drive of greed and resources,
the Siletz had to fight a political battle every step of the way to be a recognized tribe, a fight that
continues to this day. "The People Are Dancing Again" traces the history of this tribe culturally
and the struggles of a modern Native American tribe.
Sacraments & Shamans
Scott McCarthy
Blue Dolphin Publishing
PO Box 8, Nevada City, CA 95959
9781577332466, $17.95, www.bluedolphinpublishing.com
By understanding the innate faith in us all, you understand God. "Sacraments and Shamans: A
Priest Journeys Among Native Peoples" is the religious memoir of Father Scott McCarthy, who as
a catholic priest has sought to visit and learn of the faithful practices of the Native American
people on both continents, seeking to learn so much more about everything around faith and what
it means to all us, free from the formal institution of faith. "Sacraments and Shamans" is a
fascinating read for anyone interested in the many faiths that make up our world.
The Gaming Shelf
Make Your Own MMORPG
Aaron C. Callahan
Fose Media
c/o Ingram, Baker & Taylor (distribution)
www.makeyourownmmorpg.com
9780983171607 $29.99 www.fosemedia.com
Make Your Own MMORPG: How to Plan, Build and Run Your Own Online Multiplayer Game
does not contain specific computer programming instructions - instead, it's packed cover to cover
with tips, tricks, techniques, recommendations, and warnings for would-be MMORPG creators,
with the presumption that they already possesses all the requisite technical skills in their software
platform of choice. Chapters cover how to create a coherent game design document, how to
balance challenge and fun factor in one's game, how to successfully market one's game and attract
new players, how to deal with malicious players/hacks/bugs/exploits, and even how to effective
outsource the most laborious or difficult programming duties. Of particular interest are the pros
and cons given for the many different revenue models available for MMORPGs - from "freemium"
(a game that is initially free to play but requires a premium payment for access to the entire
game), to "cosmetic" (a game that only charges for minor customizations that don't directly affect
gameplay), "buy once" (no ongoing subscription), "donation based", "ad supported", "surveys"
(induces players to take an online survey rather than pay for premium content), and "sponsor".
Links to a wealth of useful online resources round out the solid basic advice in this highly
accessible, user-friendly guide for anyone considering launching their own MMORPG for fun or
profit.
Thundercloud Galaxy
Braden Campbell and Kevin Siembieda
Palladium Books
39074 Webb Court, Westland, MI 48185-7606
9781574571837, $20.95, www.palladiumbooks.com
There is nothing scarier than the unknown. Except when you learn what the unknown is.
"Thundercloud Galaxy: Rifts Dimension Book 14" is a source book for the Rifts pen and paper
role-playing game system, focusing on the mysterious and enigmatic Thundercloud galaxy, as
players and game masters are introduced to countless new races, creatures, and adventures with a
focus on the truly bizarre and unknown that even our imaginations can't comprehend.
"Thundercloud Galaxy" is not to be missed by the Rifts playing diehards.
Slay the Spanish!
Timothy Taylor
Everyman Chess
c/o The Globe Pequot Press
PO Box 480, 246 Goose Lane, Guilford, CT 06437-0480
9781857446371, $27.95, www.everymanchess.com
Some strategies seem impossible to beat, but with the right preparation, you learn that no strategy
is bulletproof. "Slay the Spanish: Weapons Against the Ruy Lopez" is a guide to beating the
Spanish Opening, also referred to as the Ruy Lopez. With strategies for both black and white
sides, Timothy Taylor, US Open Chess Champion, provides his expertise with good wisdom to
help any player win more games and be better prepared against the Spanish Opening. "Slay the
Spanish" is a reference that should be considered by any blooming student of the game.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
The Herbal Alchemist's Handbook
Karen Harrison
Red Wheel/Weiser/Conari
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950-4600
9781578634910 $21.95 www.redwheelweiser.com
The Herbal Alchemist's Handbook: A Grimoire of Philtres, Elixirs, Oils, Incense, and Formulas
for Ritual Use lives up to its title as a user-friendly guide to herbalism, ancient alchemy, and
practical magick. Author Karen Harrison applies her expertise in the field to this materia magica
of more than 150 herbs as well as recipes for incense, oils, bath salts, herbal amulets, and philtres.
Astrological influences are fully taken into account in this accessible compendium, highly
recommended especially for new age and metaphysical reference shelves.
Gardens of the Elder Gods
M. Don Schorn
Ozark Mountain Publishing
PO Box 754, Huntsville, AR 72740
9781886940123, $17.00, www.ozarkmt.com
The universe is an ancient thing, and a few thousands years is nothing in the universe. "Gardens of
the Elder Gods" is a metaphysical study of the existence of civilization and contact with other
worlds made by M. Don Schorn, whose research on the topic tries to find proof of otherworldly
meddling in our ancient history, the role of the great flood, and the ancient advancements of
mankind. "Gardens of the Elder Gods" is filled with musings for the metaphysical thinker to
ponder, recommended.
The Life Cycle of the Human Soul
Ralph Metzner
Regent Press
2747 Regent Street, Berkeley, CA 94705
9781587902130, $25.00, www.regentpress.com
In our early life, our fresh minds are tracking anything and everything. "The Life Cycle of the
Human Soul" is the argument of Ralph Metzner that those earliest moments of our being are an
imprint on our soul, starting our journey through the many stages of our lives. Stating our lives as
we live them are only a small part of our existence, he reaches into metaphysical territory as he
seeks to explain our role in the greater universe than surrounds us. "The Life Cycle of the Human
Soul: Incarnation - Conception, Birth - Death - Hereafter - Reincarnation" is worth considering
for those who want a different opinion on their life and what lies after.
Embodying Osiris
Thom F. Cavalli
Quest Books
c/o Theosophical Publishing House
PO Box 270, Wheaton, IL 60187-0270
9780835608800, $15.95, www.questbooks.net
Alchemy has left behind its state as a pseudo-science only to come back out as a spiritual journey.
"Embodying Osiris: The Secrets of Alchemical Transformation" is a meeting of disciplines, as
Thom F. Cavalli twists the ideas of Jungian psychology, Alchemy, and mythology together to
present one discussion of philosophy and channel the very spirit of reinvention and self-renewal.
With plenty of intriguing thoughts and theories, "Embodying the Osiris" is an excellent addition to
any psychology and spirituality collection.
The Great Airship of 1897
J. Allan Danelek
Adventures Unlimited Press
303 Main Street, Kempton, IL 60946-0074
9781935487036, $16.95, www.adventuresunlimitedpress.com
The advancement of technology is filled with quiet successes and failures, but taking to the skies
shouldn't be a success kept quiet. "The Great Airship of 1897: A Provocative Look at the Most
Mysterious Aviation Event in History" discusses the existence of a dirigible that may have existed
ten years before the Zeppelins of Germany began to take hold. In the Midwest, reports stated
seeing the flying balloon, but are they creations of imagination and sensationalist journalists, or
did an American create an airship before the Germans? "The Great Airship of 1897" is an
intriguing study of forgotten history, recommended reading.
The Holocaust Studies Shelf
The Beasts of Buchenwald
Flint Whitlock
Cable Publishing
14090 E Keeinenen Rd., Brule, WI 54820
9781934980705, $24.95, www.cablepublishing.com
The worst monsters can hide behind the gentlest of demeanor. "The Beasts of Buchenwald: Karl
& Ilse Koch, Human-Skin Lampshades, and the War-Crimes Trial of the Century" looks at the
story of this couple and their vicious side. At home, it would have seemed like any other family,
Ilse Koch faced a sensational war crimes tribunal after the war for her part in the atrocity, as her
husband faced death by corruption. Chronicling the couple's story with much thought and detail,
"The Beasts of Buchenwald" is an endlessly fascinating read, a core addition to any history or
Holocaust studies collection.
The Poetry Shelf
The Spirit of a Poem
Aazam Yaqoob
A-Way
132 Homeland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21212
9780974168913, $12.95 http://a-way.biz
"The Spirit of a Poem" is a deeply personal bouquet of meditational poems with original
illustrations that take the reader on significant inner pathways. Categorized as a type of emotional
poetry, "The Spirit of a Poem" evolves effortlessly from inner monologue or stream of
consciousness to whimsical haiku and back, making little dips and bows along the way, like a
poet's nod of recognition. Observations of nature, reactions after taking a test, inspired
imaginings, all these things provide grist for the poet's mill. Some lovely moments await the
careful reader, both in the visually entrancing, spare illustrations, and in the quiet flow and spin of
images and language. "The Spirit of a Poem" could appeal to either a child or an adult. In either
case, each poem invites the reader to cast off and follow wherever the drifting leaf-boat of the
poem's heart takes him. An example is the haiku-like poem entitled 'Summer,' accompanied by an
illustration of a jaunty, crayoned red bird on a brown branch, against a deep violet background:
"Heat beams down on me/ Green grass tall, blowing in little wind/ When summer's gone, fall"
Northerners
Seth Abramson
Western Michigan University
1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008
9781930974968 $15.00 www.wmich.edu
Winner of the 2010 Green Rose Prize, Prize, Northerners is an anthology of free-verse poetry by
poet, essayist, and staff attorney Seth Abramson. Poems particularly scrutinize precepts and
principles which form the building blocks of civilization, and their relevance projected into lives of
individuals from historical times to the modern day. An introspective connection of repercussions
throughout short and long-term history, Northerners is extraordinary in its insight and highly
recommended. "Home Causes Blindness": You have seen big men get bigger // You have seen the
knifeblades / the rivers make, / though they take a thousand years / and nine border wars to do it /
You have seen soldiers soldier / mothers mother / leaders lead and everyone else be / everyone
else / in the story of you // Among the flags of the millennium / were eighteen flags, / and when
nine advanced painfully / across a plain / it was to you they came // You have sent boys to the
borders / on the strength of their own words / only // You have seen stout men grow / stouter /
You have seen women who ache / ache more / You have done it by seeing to it / those loving you
never leave you.
A Dream of Dragons
William Lange, author
Mary Azarian, illustrator
Bunker Hill Publishing
285 River Road, Piermont, NH 03770
9781593730895 $19.95 www.bunkerhillpublishing.com
Based on true events, A Dream of Dragons is the story of a Norwegian family's trials, tribulations,
and triumphs. Their adventures and exploits span the course of two hundred years and two
continents. What particularly distinguishes A Dream of Dragons is its epic verse format,
hearkening to the ancient, traditional storytelling style of Norse culture, and its striking
black-and-white woodcut-style illustrations. A uniquely immersive and memorable read from
cover to cover, highly recommended. "A lonely, quiet boy, his spirit stirred / by music no one else
on the farm could hear. / Evenings found him standing on the cliffs, / still listening, while the sea
breeze stirred his hair. / The sky dimmed to its long summer twilight, / and seemed to shimmer, as
if a breeze / disturbed translucent curtains at a window. / A moment later the curtains caught fire,
/ and the lights were dancing in the sky!"
Journey to Wisconsin
Fabu
Parallel Press
372 Memorial Library, 728 State Street, Madison, WI 53575
9781934795248 $10.00 http://parallelpress.library.wisc.edu
Written by Fabu, the third Madison Poet Laureate, Journey to Wisconsin: African American Life
in Haiku is a thoughtful poetry chapbook encapsulating generations of pioneer family
perseverance and history. Most the story is told in haiku verse; a few poems adopt free verse
format. An ultimately heartening chronicle of braving life's challenges above and beyond that of
survival, Journey to Wisconsin is highly recommended. "Passion rushes by / On the wings of
startled youth / Is there earth below? // Wild-hearted daughters / Run barefoot on glass strewn /
Asphalt hot with heat. // Rainbow barrettes snap / Every which way, good kinkies / Escape to
freedom."
Song of the Taxidermist
Aurian Haller
Goose Lane
330-500 Beaverbrook Court, Fredericton, NB Canada E3B 5X4
9780864926494, $17.95, www.gooselane.com
What we call our own tends to tell a very unique story. "Song of the Taxidermist" is a collection
of poetry from Aurian Haller as he offers his own lyrical and musical nature and distills it into a
unique poetry experience as he offers his thoughts on the possessions we value in our life and the
values it expresses for us. "Song of the Taxidermist" is intriguing and very highly recommended
reading, not to be missed by poetry collections looking for something quite different.
"Belongings": 1. Letter Opener//could not cut the firmest tomato,/must feel good/to hold,
ceremonial./You're more likely to bleed/from paper or the message it carries./Handwritten mail
sits/at the bottom where you'll take/greater care in teasing out its contents./A knife has a crooked
grin, while the opener,/a sheep/seeking gentle passage,/follows the fold.
Army Cats
Tom Sleigh
Graywolf Press
250 Third Avenue N, Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781555975838, $15.00, www.graywolfpress.com
Our animalistic tendencies seem to come out much more than they honesty should. "Army Cats"
is a collection of poetry from Tom Sleigh who uses his verse as a tool to discuss our more primal
nature and how it still drives our lives even in our supposedly civilized world. "Army Cats" is a
thoughtful collection of poetry with a strong message. "To Death": You won't wipe away my
joy/in my seaweed skin, my hunched neck,/my folds and creases you hide in/even as I throw my
arm around you and lie//my leg sweaty and cooling next to yours./I know you make my face
more/interesting to me on this beautifully//lit stage made to look like an open/field where I wander
in your theater/of fantasies touching God knows what//in this delirium of bodies/in this noisy club
where everybody's drinking and that's you leaning over//secretly spitting in everybody's drink.
Circles Where the Head Should Be
Caki Wilkinson
University of North Texas Press
1155 Union Circle #311336, Denton, TX 76203-5017
9781574413090, $12.95, www.unt.edu.untpress
Answers are more elusive than we'd like, but til we get them, we make it up as we go along.
"Circles Where the Heads Should Be" is a collection of poetry from young, new poet Caki
Wilkenson who offers her collection on trying to make sense of our world, and the fronts we put
up when we're losing our mind. "Circles Where the Heads Should Be" is a simple, yet poignant
volume, highly recommended. "Storm and Stress": That a spider web supports a bead of rain/is as
significant/as rain's resolve, poised where some spinneret/has pitched its threads aslant,/since, held
of holding, each endures a strain--/one presses, one reacts./Don't ask me what it's worth. Despite
the facts/of matter's favored states,/such concentration's of no consequence/beyond this life, a
net/tailored to break, too late for recompense/when weight evaporates.
Vendange Tardive
Peter Reading
Bloodaxe Books
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781852248840, $18.95, www.dufoureditions.com
Just because you're foretelling doom, doesn't mean you can't put a bit of rhythm to it. "Vendange
Tardive" is a collection of poetry from Peter Reading, a prolific poet who has tracked Britian's
long history and feels we are in decline and facing extinction. "Vendange Tardive" is a poignant
read that must be considered for those looking for poetry with a certain message to it. "Fabulous":
Demeter tutored Triptolemus/in agriculture and lent him/her winged chariot,/wherein/he traversed
the globe, regaled/the Third World with grain...
The Homeowner's Shelf
Scott Cohen's Poolscapes
Scott Cohen
Schiffer Publishing
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764337406, $39.99, www.schifferbooks.com
A pool can be far more than a rectangular area with water in it. "Scott Cohen's Poolscapes:
Refreshing Ideas for the Ultimate Backyard Resort" is an idea book for those who want to
embrace the pool as more than recreation, but as a place to fully enjoy leisure no matter the
situation. Blending photography with architectural advice, Cohen and Elizabeth Lexau give
readers plenty of wisdom on how to create something truly special with their pool, beyond a
swimming hole. Discussing the area around the pool, such as bars, grills, chairs, and how the
atmosphere blends together, "Scott Cohen's Poolscapes" is a must for anyone looking to design
their own high end personal paradise.
Pest Control Simplified for Everyone
Danny Ledoux
Universal-Publishers
23331 Water Circle, Boca Raton, FL 33486-8540
9781599428376, $25.95, www.universal-publishers.com
Unwelcome guests who make life unpleasant for you are beatable, you just need to know how.
"Pest Control Simplified for Everyone: Kill, Repel, or Mitigate Pests With or Without Pesticides"
is a guide to winning the fight against the insect kind in one's own home front. Danny Ledoux
advises readers on how to deal with a wide array of bugs and pests in their home, in a way that
doesn't lead to later problems like damaging your yard or the environment. From termites to lice
to ants and more, "Pest Control Simplified for Everyone" is very much recommended for anyone
who wants to strike against these pests more effectively.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
A Wildlife Collection
Kurt L. Krueger
Krueger Northwoods Photography
7142 Timbershore Lane, Three Lakes, WI 54562
9781616237417, $39.95, www.kurtkruegerphotos.com
There is a certain natural beauty to America that simply can't be replicated elsewhere. "A Wildlife
Collection: Celebrating Wisconsin's Conservation Ethic" is a combination study of the
conservation efforts that Wisconsin has taken throughout its history retain that beauty, with full
color glossy photographs of various aspects of Wisconsin's nature, its countless species of animal,
flora, and landscape that combine into such a pretty sight. Working both as a study of nature and
coffee table nature photography book, "A Wildlife Collection" is an excellent pick for anyone
looking for either, expertly compiled by one Kurt L. Krueger.
The Crafts Shelf
Patterns in Polymer
Julie Picarello
Kalmbach
PO Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187-1612
9780871164094, $21.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com
The personal touch is all too often missing from jewelry. "Patterns in Polymer: Imprint & Accent
Bead Techniques" is a collection of do it yourself fashion advice to those who want to create their
own fashions out of polymer, as Julie Picarello walks readers on how to make their own polymer
projects and use them effectively, and what to avoid in your construction. Practical and stylish, for
anyone who has a do it yourself spirit to their accessories, "Patterns in Polymer" is an excellent
pick for crafts and jewelry collections.
Beading
Rankin Street Press
c/o Sterling
67 Broadway, Asheville, NC 28801
9781600599934, $9.95, www.sterlingpublishing.com
Beads are excellent tools to add some personality to your belongings. "Beading: 20 Great
Weekend Projects" is a collection of plenty of simple and to the point beading projects for jewelry
and other items. Presented in full color with plenty of photos, it walks readers step by step
through projects with plenty of advice to add their own spin. For anyone who loves beads and
wants to embrace them better in their work, "Beading: 20 Great Weekend Projects" is an
excellent pick for the novice crafts person.
The Needlecraft Shelf
Knitting Vintage
Claire Montgomeria
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard, Happauge, NY 11788
9780764146626, $16.99, www.barronseduc.com
With the right talent, you can resurrect old fashions quite well. "Knitting Vintage: 30 Knitting
Projects Inspired by Period Fashions" is a knitting book aimed at remaking retro styles and
turning them into one's own, looking at the past hundred years of fashion as inspiration all its
own. 1920s to the 1980s all present ideas, from cardigans to waistcoats, to headbands and
legwarmers, projects are abound and knitters will find something fun to make that will have its
own place in fashion in the 2010s. "Knitting Vintage" is a top pick for needle-hobbyists who want
something old in their something new.
The Gardening Shelf
Modern Homestead
Renee Wilkinson
Fulcrum Publishing
4690 Table Mountain Drive, Suite 100, Golden, CO 80403
9781555917487, $26.95, www.fulcrumbooks.com
Farming your land is back in vogue after a century. "Modern Homestead: Grow, Raise, Create" is
a guide to getting started with gardening, as Renee Wilkinson offers a complete and
comprehensive guide to the process. Designed to be used with any amount of space from a
windowsill to a backyard, Wilkinson's guide will walk readers through managing the plants, and
provide information on raising hens and other animals in small space as well. "Modern
Homestead" is for those who want to make their own steps towards self-sufficiency even in
today's world of city living.
The Humor Shelf
Devil's Ink
Jeffrey C. Pugh
Fortress Press
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
9780800698140, $11.95, www.fortresspress.com
Evil is very good at keeping up with the times. "Devil's Ink: Blog From the Basement Office" is a
presentation of the blog of evil, as Jeffrey C. Pugh presents a more tech savvy and modern Satan
who shares his opinions and paints a literal devil's advocacy of some subjects. With a blend of
humor and wisdom, "Devil's Ink" is a unique, fun, and very thoughtful read, not to be passed up
by religious readers who have a sense of humor.
The Self-Help Shelf
The Promise of Hope
Edward Grinnan
Guideposts
16 East 34th Street, New York, NY 10016
9780824948153, $19.99, www.edwardgrinnan.com
Yourself holds the power to make a better you. "The Promise of Hope: How True Stories of
Hope and Inspiration Saved My Life and How They Can Transform Yours" is a guide to
inspiration from Edward Grinnan who advises readers on how to use stories of those who
overcame the odds of life to rise up and make something more of themselves and apply their
success to their own life. Drawing on Grinnan's own experiences on how such tales spurred him
to overcome the rough times of his life, "The Promise of Hope" is profound and is an advocacy of
hope against all odds in our lives that sometimes feel too daunting to face head on.
Reboot Your Life
Catherine Allen & Collaborators
Beaufort Books
27 West 20th Street, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10011
Smith Publicity (publicity)
1930 E. Marlton Pike, Suite I-46, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
9780825305641, $15.95, www.rebootbreak.com
No one can live their life at a nonstop pace. "Reboot Your Life: Energize Your Career & Life by
Taking a Break" is an advisory read for those who want to set their life on a more thoughtful
path, by taking a step back away from it all to better assess one's hopes and dreams and where
one is going on their current path. From talking one's superiors into allowing a sabbatical, to
making the most of the break, to the differing degrees of away time, "Reboot Your Life" is
thoughtful and insightful reading for anyone who wants to live at their best productivity.
The Four Purposes of Life
Dan Millman
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way, Novato, CA 94949
9781932073492, $17.00, www.newworldlibrary.com
What makes you get up in the morning? "The Four Purposes of Life: Finding Meaning and
Direction in a Changing World" is a guide to finding one's goals and purposes in life, as Dan
Millman offers his reflections on why we live our lives, and push ourselves further. As we learn,
as we find our purpose and try to live up to goals, and much more, there is much to remember so
we don't leave our chosen path. "The Four Purposes of Life" is a thoughtful read with plenty of
useful affirmation, highly recommended.
The Political Science Shelf
Rollback
Thomas E. Woods, Jr.
Regnery Publishing, Inc.
One Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
9781596981416 $27.95 www.regnery.com
A main selection of the Conservative Book Club, Rollback: Repealing Big Government Before
the Coming Fiscal Collapse is a strident call to arms concerning America's immediate and
impending fiscal disaster - the national debt has quite simply ballooned too high, and threatens to
destroy the nation's economy. Author Thomas E. Woods, Jr. contends that the only way to avert
catastrophe is to drastically revamp our collective understanding of government. Chapters
severely denounce liberal ideology and policies, sharply criticize the Federal Reserve, call out big
business for inducing the government to intervene in the marketplace, explore the government's
culpability in ratcheting up the costs of health care, and more. Rollback demands smaller
government and less spending as an absolute necessity to political survival - including cuts to "off
the table" or "untouchable" parts of government such as the military and entitlements. Rollback is
an invaluable contribution to an extremely urgent national debate.
The Music Shelf
A Year Without Rain
Selena Gomez & The Scene
Hal Leonard
7777 W, Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53213
9781617803185, $16.99, www.halleonard.com
"A Year Without Rain" is a piano vocal songbook containing music and lyrics for ten songs
performed by Selena Gomez and the Scene. In addition to the title song, the book contains
"Round & Round," "Rock God," Off the Chain," "Intuition," and "Live Like There's No
Tomorrow," plus more. Piano score is of intermediate difficulty (pop style). Cover photos of
Selena Gomez and The Scene are in full color. "A Year Without Rain" is an excellent book of
songs for the aspiring pop diva with alto to mezzo range.
J. S. Bach Piano Concerto in F minor
(BWV 1056) (music score plus CD)
Hal Leonard Corporation
7777 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53213
9781423462491, $12.99, www.halleonard.com
The "J. S. Bach Piano Concerto in F minor" music plus CD performance by Polina Osetinskaya
and the Russian Philharmonic Orchestra of Moscow is a bargain for classical piano soloists of
intermediate to advanced ability. Consisting of three movements, I - Allegro Maestoso, II- Largo,
and III- Presto, this is a very good value for ambitious piano soloists. The enclosed CD helps the
performer realize the intentions of the composer in the score.
Easy Classics Piano Masters (Highlights)
Erika Feuchtner Macris, editor
East Coast Books, Inc.
P.O. Box 13142, Hauppauge, NY 11788
77780, $10.95, www.santorellapublications.com
Including selections for the intermediate pianist from works of Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Handel,
Haydn, Mozart, Schubert, Schumann and more, "Easy Classics Piano Masters (Highlights):
Easy-To-Play Arrangements from the World's Great Piano Masters" is a handy collection of
shorter classic works that are accessible to the developing pianist. Including music for over 30
shorter compositions, "Easy Classics Piano Masters Highlights" has something to appeal to every
young maestro in need of a challenging recital piece. Clear, large notation and script is
embellished by humorous illustrations of composers and explanations of musical terms. "Easy
Classics Piano Masters" belongs on every piano pedagogy shelf. Also recommended in this same
series is "Easy Classics Beethoven for the Piano (77765, $10.95)," "Easy Classics Bach for the
Piano (77760, $10.95)," and "Easy Classics Mozart for the Piano (77775, $10.95)." The last is
from Karamar Publishing Inc., 255 Oser Avenue, Hauppauge, NY 11788.
Debussy Clair de Lune and Reverie Original Piano Edition
transcribed unedited original arranged by Jonathon Robbins
Santorella Publications
P.O. Box 60, Danvers, MA 01923
TS315, $10.95, www.santorellapublications.com
"Debussy Clair de Lune and Reverie Original Piano Edition" includes clearly notated manuscripts
plus added performance and background notes and a concert CD of both pieces performed by
Dean Mora. This French Impressionist pair of classic piano pieces deserves top recognition
among music teachers and pianists. The edition is faultless. Also recommended in this series is the
Easy Piano Edition of "Debussy Clair de Lune and Reverie (TS314, $10.95)," which is transcribed
and arranged for early intermediate pianists, also with performance CD.
The Music CD Shelf
God Bless the Hunger
Gabriel Birnbaum
boywithoutgod.com
c/o Flipswitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207, Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$TBA www.flipswitchPR.com
Boston songwriter Gabriel Birnbaum presents a new music CD via his "Boy Without God" pen
name, God Bless the Hunger. The traditions of soul music play a prominent role in this collection
of songs anchored by Birnbaum's unforgettable baritone voice. Overflowing with emotion, the
songs call to sex, love, death, desire, and the elusive human pursuit of happiness, though success
in that pursuit is undoubtedly a most chancy affair. God Bless the Hunger superbly encapsulates
the quintessential dilemma of the human condition, and is highly recommended.
The DVD Shelf
Creating Castles
Crystal Productions
PO Box 2159
Glenview, IL 60025-6159
9781562906702 $29.95 www.crystalproductions.com
Creating Castles is a DVD guide to creating eye-catching replicas of medieval castles from
inexpensive materials such as cardboard, paper rolls, and clay. Using paint and colored pencil to
add decorations and the appearance of texture, host Peggy Flores demonstrates simple,
easy-to-follow creative techniques. Creating Castles lives up to its title and is a wonderful,
user-friendly addition to arts and crafts DVD libraries. 24 min.
Spirit Bear
Questar, Inc.
307 North Michigan Ave., Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60601
9781594646553 $19.99 www.questarentertainment.com
Spirit Bear is a family-friendly movie revealing the true story of Simon Jackson, an introspective
teenager whose life was saved by a rare white Kermode bear. When he learns that only four
hundred of these critically endangered bears still live, he becomes a political activist on their
behalf. Encouraged by his friend and trusted mentor Lloyd Blackburn, Simon challenges the
money-hungry forest industry and even the government. Earning the protection of 2,500 square
miles of Princess Royal Island is Simon's triumph, in this momentous story of how one person
truly can make a difference. 91 minutes. Also recently released by Questar is the documentary
"Chicago Cubs: The Heart and Soul of Chicago" (9781594646508, $24.95).
Candymaking
Sharyn Pak
On Air Video Inc.
8203 Westminster Rd., Elkins Park, PA 19027
$16.95 www.onairvideo.com
Sharyn Pak is the host of Candymaking, a user-friendly DVD tutorial to the joy of making seven
different types of candy: dripped/drizzled candy, clusters/turtles/bark, molded candies, peanut
brittle, filled candies, lollipops, and saltwater taffy. No expensive materials are required outside of
standard kitchen utensils and possibly some candy molds. An excellent "how-to" demonstrative
video for cooks of all skill and experience levels, Candymaking is highly recommended to candy
lovers everywhere - and as a resource for making unique, sweet-toothed gifts with the perfect
homemade touch! 76 min.
Get Extremely Ripped! Revved to the Max
Jari Love
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$14.99 www.411videoinfo.com
Get Extremely Ripped! Revved to the Max is a DVD exercise program hosted by Jari Love, who specifically
designed a workout to promote weight loss and vigorous activity without the skeletal stress of
running, or the complicated footwork of dancing. Three- to ten-pound dumbbells are the only
exercise equipment needed (although an optional step is helpful) for this workout that appears to
be strength training at first glance, but feels like heart-pounding cardio. Get Extremely Ripped! Revved to
the Max lives up to its title with two 30-minute workouts, and is a choice pick for fitness buffs of
all skill and experience levels. 60 min.
Breathe: The Perfect Harmony of Breathing
Fabio Andrico and Yamila Diaz
Yantra Yoga
www.yantrayoga.org
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.95 www.411videoinfo.com
Certified yoga instructor Fabio Andrico and professional model Yamila Diaz present Breathe: The
Perfect Harmony of Breathing, an instructional DVD about the Tibetan tradition of Yantra Yoga
with especial focus on training in techniques of abdominal breathing. Simple exercises with roots
in venerated traditions help the viewer incorporate ancient breathing techniques into everyday life
for better health, awareness, and clarity of mind. Accessible to viewers of all fitness levels and
backgrounds, Breathe is an excellent supplement to yoga DVD libraries. 120 min.
Belly Beautiful Workout, volume 2
Patricia Friberg
www.bellybeautifulworkout.com
411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.95 www.411videoinfo.com
Belly Beautiful Workout Volume 2: Postnatal Fitness and Busy Mom Workout continues fitness
instructor Patricia Friberg's excellent DVD series designed especially to help mothers stay in
shape - including mothers who have given birth through cesarian section. Volume 2 focuses on
staying slim after one's baby is born; program segments concentrate on exercises to tone the belly,
build strength in postural muscles, rehabilitate the pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscles,
reduce stress, promote endurance and much more. No expensive exercise equipment is required,
although a small fitness ball and a foot resistance band (not included) are recommended. An
excellent, user-friendly exercise program ideal for mothers of all backgrounds and fitness levels,
Belly Beautiful Workout is an excellent baby shower gift! 80 min.
Reality Films
info@reality-entertainment.com
PO Box 91, Foresthill, CA 95631
$24.95 www.reality-entertainment.com
Three new DVDs from Reality Films explore the unknown, the mysterious, and the fantastic.
"Witchcraft: The Magick Rituals of the Coven" ($19.95, 75 min.) covers the history of traditional
witchcraft as practiced in the United Kingdom, modern-day witchcraft, and shines a spotlight on
the infamous behavior of the "Witchfinder General" Matthew Hopkins and his ruthless
persecution of women he labeled as "witches". A visit to the Swan Inn, the location of the Witch
trials, as well as Hopkins alleged grave rounds out this haunting movie. "The Gods from Planet
X" ($24.95, 180 min.) is a two-DVD set in the "Ancient Astronauts" series about how ancient
extraterrestrial visitors could be responsible for historical miracles and evidence of gods that
walked among men. Particular focus is upon excavations of the ancient Sumerians, which reveal
that they co-existed with superhuman beings called the "Anunnaki", as well as an alleged planet of
the gods called "Nibiru", sometimes considered the "12th Planet", with an elliptical orbit that
brought it near Earth every 360,000 years. Also in the "Ancient Astronauts" series is "Our
Extraterrestrial Legacy" ($24.95, 240 min. with special features), an in-depth examination of the
cultural imprint that the Anunnaki may have left behind, and much more. All three DVDs are
mesmerizing contributions to any metaphysical library.
The Audiobook Shelf
Khan: Empire Of Silver
Conn Iggulden
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
C5756, $123.75, www.recordedbooks.com
"Khan: Empire Of Silver" is a superbly written historical novel by Conn Iggulden which tells the
story of Genghis Khan's brothers, sons, and grandsons after the founder of the Mongol empire has
died. It's a deftly intertwined and completely riveting tale of intrigue, rivalry, conquest, and blood
politics. This Recorded Books audio edition if flawlessly recorded and features an especially
effective narration by Richard Ferrone -- who does complete justice to Conn Iggulden's grand
saga of generational conflict and the astonishing accomplishments of the generation that
succeeded Genghis. Of special note is how the Mongols, on the brink of conquering all of Europe,
were stopped not by opposing armies but by the politics of succession back home. A complete
and unabridged, 12 disc edition, "Khan: Empire Of Silver" is especially recommended for
community library audio book collections. For those new to Conn Iggulden, also highly
recommended is his earlier novels "Genghis: Lord Of The Bow" and "Genghis: Bones Of The
Hill" which are also available as complete and unabridged audio books from Recorded
Books.
Summer Rental
Mary Kay Andrews, author
Isabel Keating, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
9781427212740 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com
Summer Rental is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a novel following multiple women (and
one man) in their mid-thirties, as each contemplates the direction in which she should take her
professional, home, and love life. Ellis has been fired from the job she devoted herself to, leaving
her to wonder whether her years of dedication were wasted; Julia's romantic life is and future are
crippled by her blinding insecurities; Dorie has been betrayed by the man she trusted most; all
three of them, best friends since childhood, now retreat together to a common location to figure
out their lives. Their landlord, Ty Bazmore, has his own share of financial and other problems;
complicating his life is the growing mutual attraction he shares with Ellis. Maryn Shackleford, a
fugitive woman in need of a place to hide and a new identity, joins the unlikely mix, in this
eye-opening novel about working through the tangles in one's life. A one-of-a-kind vacation story
brought to vibrant life through Isabel Keating's audio performance, Summer Rental is highly
recommended. 12 CDs, 15 hours.
Vaclav & Lena
Haley Tanner, author
Kirby Heyborne and Rebecca Lowman, narrators
Random House Audio Books
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 8th floor, New York, NY 10019
9780307932716 $35.00 www.randomhouse.com
Vaclav & Lena is the unabridged audiobook production of two people who meet as children in an
ESL class in Brooklyn, then are separated by the vagaries of fate. Vaclav is an outgoing young
boy; Lena is struggling to learn English but takes comfort in the affections of Vaclav and his
family. When Lena disappears from school, Vaclav wonders where she has gone; he says
goodnight to her each night for years, until on the eve of her seventeenth birthday he learns the
truth. Acclaimed actor Kirby Heyborne and award-winning actress Rebecca Lowman bring the
these two star-crossed confederates to life in this emotionally moving story about the steadfast
bond between two people. 8 CDs, 10 hours.
Morning Song
Susan Todd and Carol Purington, editors
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427212764 $14.99 www.macmillanaudio.com
Morning Song: Poems for New Parents is an audiobook anthology of poetry about how the
responsibility of caring for and raising a human life completely transforms a family. Verse from
sources ranging from the Bible and traditional songs to Dickinson, Yeats, Frost, and
contemporary poets make Morning Song an exceptional listening experience, and a superb gift for
new parents everywhere. Highly recommended. 1 CD, 1 hour.
Steam Dreamers Of Inverness: Part 3
ZBS Foundation
174 North River Road
Fort Edward, NJ 12828
www.zbs.org
1931654522, $22.50, www.amazon.com
The third installment of the thrilling adventures of Jack Flanders and his two companions,
Claudine and Mojo, continue in this 2 disk audio book. Once again Flanders, Claudine, and Mojo
embark upon a kind of Victorian era holographic projector room to board a zeppelin, 'The
Illuminato'. This time they come across a floating island with strange vegetation guarded by a
creature that is part woman and part plant. The creation of a mad botanist, our intrepid trio
discover a forbidden tomb and risk being turned into sentient trees! Flawlessly recorded, imbued
with impressive sound effects, and providing the listener with a true 'theatre of the mind'
experience, "Steam Dreamers Of Inverness: Part 3" will leave Jack Flanders' legions of fans
looking eagerly toward 'Steam Dreamers Of Inverness: Part 4'!
The Hunting/Fishing Shelf
Upper Columbia Flyfisher
Steven Bird
Frank Amato Publications
PO Box 82112, Portland, OR 97282
9781571884480, $35.00, www.amatobooks.com
If you want trout, you shouldn't look anywhere but the Columbia River. "Upper Columbia
Flyfisher: Notes, Stories, & Secrets from the Shining Reach" gives readers a blend of fishing guide
and memoir, speaking of this mighty river that feeds some of the best trout streams in the world.
Steven Bird presents a volume that will educate and entertain fishers who want to get the most
out of these rivers, organized by season so that readers can find information and stories relevant
to current conditions. "Upper Columbia Flyfisher" is filled with knowledge that will please
trout-lovers everywhere.
The Philosophy Shelf
The Etiquette of Freedom
Gary Snyder & Jim Harrison
Counterpoint
1919 Fifth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
9781582436296, $28.00, www.counterpointpress.comu
Free from captivity, free from the structure of humanity, what does it really mean to be wild?
"The Etiquette of Freedom: Gary Snyder, Jim Harrison, and the Practice of the Wild" is a
collections of discussions between the authors Gary Snyder and Jim Harrison discuss their lives
and opinions of the wild, deep ecology, and more. In a humorous and conversational style, "The
Etiquette of Freedom" will prove an enlightening and fun read, and comes with the movie 'The
Practice of the Wild', for a more complete experience.
The Parenting Shelf
Fetus to Fifth Grade
David V. Schapira
Strategic Book Group
PO Box 333, Durham, CT 06422
9781609762193, $14.00, www.strategicpublishinggroup.com
Parenting is a monumental task, that even the most confident of parents shouldn't wave off advice.
"Fetus to Fifth Grade: The Most Up to Date Scientific Evidence on Pregnancy, Child Care, and
Parenting" is a guide for mothers who want to consider everything as they raise their child from
conception through those first ten years of life which form so much about a child's personality and
the life that lies ahead of them. "Fetus to Fifth Grade" is packed cover to cover with information
from international physician David V. Schapira, worth considering for parents who want to avoid
screwing up as much as possible in their child's life.
The Nautical Shelf
Lubber's Log
William L. Gills
Llumina Press
7915 W. McNab Rd., Tamarac, FL 33321
9781605944845, $12.95, www.lubberslog.com
There are adventures to be had at sea in the modern day. They just happen to not involve pirates
and discovering new worlds. "Lubber's Log" is a memoir and nautical guide from William L. Gills
who offers his experience to newbies who are taking their love for the adventure of the seas into a
bigger and tougher to manage boat. Sailing with his wife, he brings down to earth wisdom as well
as stories of his own adventures and misadventures. "Lubber's Log" is a strongly recommended
read for any boating enthusiast with aspirations for bigger challenges.
The Buddhist Studies Shelf
The Ninth Karmapa's Ocean of Definitive Meaning
Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche
Snow Lion Publications
PO Box 6483, Ithaca, NY 14851
9781559393706 $16.95 www.SnowLionPub.com
The Ninth Karmapa's Ocean of Definitive Meaning presents one of the most famous text on
Mahamudra, originally written by the Ninth Karmapa (1556-1603). Traditionally, this text has
only been available to advanced students; Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche made the decision to share
publically publish and share the core teachings during a retreat he led in 2001. Thrangu Rinpoche's
presentation makes accessible a classic text about the artificial separation between phenomena and
emptiness; chapters include "Looking Carefully at the Experience of Not Finding Anything",
"Looking at the Mind within the Occurrence of Thought", "Pointing Out That Emptiness Is
Spontaneous Presence", "Pointing Out That Spontaneous Practice Is Self-Liberation", and much
more. An invaluable addition to Kagyu lineage Buddhist studies shelves, The Ninth Karmapa's
Ocean of Definitive Meaning to advanced students and practitioners of the faith.
Bardo Teachings
Lama Lodu
Snow Lion
605 West State Street, PO Box 6483, Ithaca, NY 14850
9781559393669, $14.95, www.snowlionpub.com
Death is only the end if you view it as such. "Bardo Teachings: The Way of Death & Rebirth" is a
book of Buddhist spirituality as Lama Lodu examines the philosophy and spirituality behind death
through the microscope of Buddhism, describing the process of death, rebirth, and what of the
afterlife. In a simple to read and understand format, "Bardo Teachings" is an excellent pick for
anyone looking for a greater understanding of the Buddhist cycle of death.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Caledor: A Tale of the Sundering
Gav Thorpe
The Black Library
c/o BL Publishing
1525 Hulse Road, Unit 1, Pt. Pleasant, NJ 08742
9781849700511 $8.99 www.blacklibrary.com
The grand conclusion to the Sundering fantasy trilogy, Caledor: A Tale of the Sundering
chronicles the darkest hour of the land of Ulthuan. The cruel Witch King has sent his dark elves to
lay waste to the land, and deliver genocide to the high elves. Prince Caledor has claimed the
Phoenix Crown and champions Ulthuan's last hope, in this action-packed, earth-shattering epic
about making a final stand against all-encompassing darkness. Highly recommended.
The Psychology Shelf
The Aging Intellect
Douglas H. Powell
Routledge
270 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
www.routledge.com
9780415996853, $34.95, www.amazon.com
"The Aging Intellect" by Douglas H. Powell (Clinical Instructor in Psychology at Harvard
Medical School and a Consultant in Psychology at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts)
addresses the issue of how and why a minority of adults in diverse cultures around the globe
remain cognitively fit as they age. Why their minds and intellects continue to be sharp throughout
the aging process while others experience loss of mental alertness and acuity. The issues and
factors examined include lifestyle habits and attitudes, strategies minimizing mental decline,
normal cognitive changes, and intellectual qualities that actually strengthen with age. Informed
and informative, "The Aging Intellect" is fascinating read that is enhanced with a glossary,
extensive footnotes, and a comprehensive index, making it an ideal and recommended addition to
academic and community library collections.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
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