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Wisconsin Bookwatch

Volume 4, Number 10 October 2009 Home | WBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Poetry Shelf Computer Shelf
Art Shelf World History Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Martial Arts Shelf Photography Shelf Music Shelf
Judaic Studies Shelf Social Issues Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf
Travel Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf Christian Studies Shelf
Biography Shelf Self-Help Shelf Education Shelf
International Studies Shelf Gardening Shelf Gay Studies Shelf
Fiction Shelf Literary Shelf Business Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Jobs/Careers Shelf Psychology Shelf
Parenting Shelf Gaming Shelf Science Shelf
Political Science Shelf Military Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Environmental Studies Shelf Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Philosophy Shelf Fashion Shelf Sports Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf Journalism Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

The August House Book of Scary Stories
Liz Parkhurst, editor
August House Inc.
3500 Piedmont Road NE, Suite 310, Atlanta, GA 30305
9780874839159 $15.95 www.augusthouse.com

All cultures have stories designed to scare, and most importantly educate children. "The August House Book of Scary Stories: Spooky Tales for Telling Out Loud" is a collection of scary stories for young people, drawn from a wide range of sources, ranging from folk tales from traditions around the world to urban legends. Also including the origins of each of its stories, "The August House Book of Scary Stories" is a good source for either those looking for stories or those who want a bit more of the history of the scary story. "The August House Book of Scary Stories" is a top pick.

The Future That Brought Her Here
Deborah Denicola
Ibis Press / Nicolas-Hays, Inc.
PO Box 540206, Lake Worth, FL 33454-0206
Red Wheel/Weiser (distribution)
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950-4600
www.redwheelweiser.com 1-800-423-7087
9780892541485 $16.95 www.nicolashays.com

The wholeness of a spirit fulfilled is a desire that will take people across the world. "The Future That Brought Her Here: A Memoir of a Call to Awaken" is Deborah Denicola's reflections on her spiritual journeys around the world. Encouraging women to use their natural gifted intuition, she shows what knowledge she has gained going around the world, from Israel to France and beyond. "The Future That Brought Her Here" is an inspiring read especially for women.

Exposed! Ouija, Firewalking, and Other Gibberish
Henri Broch, author
Bart K. Holland, translator
The Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
9780801892462 $24.95 www.press.jhu.edu

The paranormal endlessly captivates us, much like a good fantasy story. Henri Broach believes it's because it's the same thing. "Exposed!: Ouija, Firewalking, and Other Gibberish" is an expose on many of the paranormal scams that are promoted by today's modern con men or perhaps only misinformed people. Henri Broch seeks to debunk many of these myths and take a stand against new age garbage that so many people seem to spot. For those who want a better understanding of these questionable concepts, "Exposed!" might be the read for them.

60 Hikes within 60 Miles
Tamara York
Menasha Ridge Press
PO Box 43673, Birmingham, AL 35243
9780897327053, $17.95, www.menasharidge.com

Hiking is great exercise with a nod to adventure. "60 Hikes Within 60 Miles" is a guide for hikers in the Ohio region who want to find all of the exciting trails throughout the region. Covering the city of Cincinnati and its surrounding regions, this guide form the American Hiking Society covers man aspects of what a hiker needs to know, such as the amount of shade available, how long is it open, and other special features. "60 Hikes Within 60 Miles" is a must have for any hiker in the region.

The Friends We Keep
Sarah Zacharias Davis
WaterBrook Press
c/o Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group
12265 Oracle Boulevard, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
The B&B Media Group, Inc.
9781400074396, $12.99, www.waterbrookpress.com

The friendship between women is worlds different than the friendship between men. "The Friends We Keep: A Woman's Quest for the Soul of Friendship" is a discussion of the friendships of women and how their relationships are unique. So often women's friendships involve competition, where there's lot of unfriendly behavior, yet the women who have these rivalries end up friends for a lifetime. Examining this anomalies, author Sarah Zacharias Davis offers much food for thought for women and their friendships. "The Friends We Keep" is a worthwhile and highly recommended read.

Great Discoveries
Kelly Knauer, editor
Time Inc. Home Entertainment
PO Box 11016, Des Moines, Iowa 50336-1016
www.time.com
9781603200837, $29.95, www.amazon.com

Magnificently illustrated throughout, "Great Discoveries: Explorations That changed History" showcases succinct histories underlying epic explorations and discoveries in such diverse subjects as geography, paleontology, astronomy, and archaeology. From dinosaur digs to underwater dives for the Titanic, from Egyptian tombs to space age explorations of the solar system, "Great Discoveries" truly lives up to its title and readers will find it as informed and informative as it is engaging and entertaining. With its thoroughly 'reader friendly' text, "Great Discoveries" is a strongly recommended addition to both school and community library collections.

Osama Bin Laden Dead or Alive?
David Ray Griffin
Olive Branch Press
c/o Interlink Publishing Group
46 Crosby Street, Northampton, MA 01060-1804
9781566567831, $15.00, www.interlinkbooks.com

The hunt for Osama Bin Laden has been a topic for the past eight years, but what if it's all for naught? "Osama Bin Laden Dead or Alive?" is an exploration of the status of notorious terrorist leader Osama Bin Laden, and the evidence debating whether he's alive and still hiding in Pakistan or Afghanistan - or elsewhere - or the fact that he could have died many years ago, due to age, health, or U.S. bombings during the early Afghani war. "Osama Bin Laden Dead or Alive?" is an interesting read on the main focus of the War on Terror, highly recommended.


The Poetry Shelf

Wisconsin Poets Laureate
Wisconsin Poet Laureate Commission
Marsh River Editions
M233 Marsh Road, Marshfield, WI 54449
www.marshrivereditions.com
9780977276868, $10.00, wordzoo@dwave.net

An impressive literary project of the Wisconsin Poet Laureate Commission, presented by Marsh River Editions (a Wisconsin publishing house based in Marshfield, Wisconsin), "Wisconsin Poets Laureate" is a slender, elegantly published, 29-page showcase celebrating three outstanding poets whose work has earned them the accolade of becoming the most recent Wisconsin Poet Laureates. Marilyn L. Taylor (the current Poet Laureate of Wisconsin) is represented with eight examples of her verse; Denise Sweet (Poet Laureate of Wisconsin from 2004 to 2008) with seven; and Ellen Kort (Poet Laureate of Wisconsin from 2000 to 2004) with nine. "Wisconsin Poets Laureate" is a unique and highly recommended addition to personal poetry reading lists, and should be a core addition to every Wisconsin academic and community library collection.

Rock Worn by Water
Florence Chard Dacey
Plan View Press
1509 Dexter Street, Austin, TX 78704
9780911051216, $14.95, www.plainviewpress.net

With three previous collections to her name, Florence Chard Dacey brings readers "Rock Worn By Water". Simple verse with a simple message, her work paints with a vivid brush of her thoughts making for a highly fulfilling romp through the world of poetry. "Rock Worn By Water" is a treasure for any poetry collection. "Cedar": Oh cedar,/you are cut down now,/gone like the buffalo.//Where is your green?//Where will the deer sleep now?//Who will hide me from the rain?//Oh cedar,/you are cut down now.//Gone is your scent,/gone the blue berries.//In your stump-/Red.

Selected Poems: 1970-2005
Floyd Skloot
Tupelo Press
The Eclipse Mill, Loft 305, PO Box 1767, North Adams, MA 01247
9781932195590 $17.95 www.tupelopress.org

Many books of poetry under his name have been widely published. Floyd Skloot has become a notable figure in the poetry world. "Selected Poems: 1970-2005" is a collection of his work that prove of high quality and of fine example to those trying to craft their own poetry. "Selected Poems" is a seminal addition to any poetry collection, a highly recommended choice. "Seed": She is alive. Although her doctors said/there was nothing to be done, she is home,/planting her summer garden, is not dead,/and plans to eat everything she has grown in this plot, each carrot and tomato,/each squash, pepper, lettuce leaf. She will live/beyond the harvest and what will not grow/is her tumor, its flowers held captive/and still beneath her heart./Only the live/ wire of her will separates her now from/the future displayed in black and white five/months ago, backlit clearly. It will come/sooner or later, but this is her time/to cultivate and seed. She is alive.

Broken Sleep
Sally Read
Bloodaxe Books
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc. (distribution)
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781852248451 $17.95 www.dufoureditions.com 1-800-869-5677

Motherhood is one of the most inspirational experiences of one's life. "Broken Sleep" is the second collection of poetry from Sally Read, focusing on the relationship between mother and newborn child in the first half, and the fear of loss in the second. A fine and varied collection of work, "Broken Sleep" is a solid addition to many poetry collections. "The Belly": Six months gone, a succession/of diamond crazes my navel:/each growth-spurt snagging/its mark, like the rings of a tree.//Your father enfolds me from behind,/I would have you always like this./When his fingers trace the bump's/topography of silver rivulets//you thrash and fling yourself up/like a muscular fish./And his face -/a man whose hand falls through glass/as he reaches into a mirror.

Manatee/Humanity
Anne Waldman
Penguin Book Poetry
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
Naropa University
2130 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, CO 80302
9780143115212, $18.00, www.penguin.com

They share the earth with us, but do we truly understand them? "Manatee/Humanity" is a collection of poetry from Anne Waldman, who presents a collection of poetry focusing on the relationships that mankind has with the animal kingdom. Drawing inspiration from evolution, animal empathy, and all things that link humans with the rest of their animal brethren, "Manatee/Humanity" is an intriguing work of verse, sure to make many a reader ponder their roots.

Finding Your Best Angle
Mary Rose Betten
Fithian Press
PO Box 2790, McKinleyville, CA 95519
9781564744869 $12.00 www.danielpublishing.com

Everyone wants to be the next Bruce Willis or Nicole Kidman, but there's some wisdom that can bring you down to earth. "Finding Your Best Angle: Give This to an Actor" is a collection on poems on the tumultuous world of Hollywood, written by an experienced actor in her own right. Simple wisdom in fine verse is what's for sale in "Finding Your Best Angle". "Residuals Less Than Postage": This check comes like clockwork/from a show I did so long ago;/Joe Pesci's wife in "Lethal Weapon."/They cut the part, even had a scene/with Mel Gibson. Once a nice fat/payment for extraction now tooth/fairy money for breath mints.

On Poets & Poetry
William H. Pritchard
Swallow Press
c/o Ohio University Press
19 Circle Drive, Athens, OH 45701
9780804011150 $24.95 www.ohioswallow.com 1-800-621-2736

What is the point of poetry, anyway? "On Poets & Poetry" is William H. Pritchard seeking to answer that question in this intriguing volume of literary criticism as Pritchard studies poetry and comes up with many unique ideas and criticism of modern poetry and its evolution on a wide scale throughout recent history. Written by a true scholar of modern poetry, "On Poets and Poetry" is a must read for any fan of poetry who enjoys trying to gain a better understanding of it.

Rooms and Their Airs
Jody Gladding
Milkweed Editions
1011 Washington Avenue South, #300, Minneapolis, MN 55415-1246
9781571314321 $16.00 www.milkweed.org 1-800-520-6455

Humanity is as natural as anything else. "Rooms and Their Airs" is a collection of poetry from Jody Gladding with the overlying theme of the natural and artificial worlds, and the blurry, sometimes nonexistent line between them. Simple and thought provoking, "Rooms and Their Airs" is a fine read, through and through. "She Wants to Sleep in Her Own Bed": Through cloud cover/the moon rises late and small/enough light to see that it's raining in/no matter how hard nothing will draw/her close again tonight/I shut the windows.

Trucker's Moll
Rosemary Canavan
Salmon Poetry
c/o Dufour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9780956128768, $21.95, www.dufoureditions.com

You don't need a lot of words to send a message. "Trucker's Moll" is the simple and honest work of Rosemary Canavan, an accomplished poet who can call both Scotland and Ireland her home. Her poetry reflects upon her heritage with simple stories and verse that speak louder and longer than they appear. "Trucker's Moll" is a choice pick for international poetry collections, recommended. "The Blind Woman": She was the still mentor/of the house,/the hearth goddess.//At first you saw darkness,/then a small figure by the range/feeding the fire,/outside/her brother with sleeves rolled/splitting wood for it.

Falling Body
David Cavanagh
Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781903392980 $21.95 www.dufoureditions.com 1-800-869-5677

Life never stops moving, and neither should poetry. "Falling Body" is poetry using the theme of the constant movement of life. The second collection by David Cavanagh, "Falling Body" will charm many a reader. "Falling Body" is a deftly written poetry that many a fan will cherish. "Dear Lillian"L with your dying such a trump/you've played./the rest of us shuffling/over and over,/trying to change the luck.

We Mad Climb Shaky Ladders
Pamela Spiro Wagner
CavanKerry Press
6 Horizon Road, No. 2901, Fort Lee, NJ 07024
9781933880105, $16.00, www.cavankerrypress.org

Poetry is a form of expression, and can be a better way to understand someone. "We Mad Climb Shaky Ladders" is a collection of poetry from Pamela Spiro Wagner, reflecting on her twenty five years diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. With commentary from her psychologist, "We Mad Climb Shaky Ladders" is a fascinating exploration of the psyche of the paranoid schizophrenic. "Food Sentence": Kill and eat/eat like a whore/four times over easy/the eggs are gone to omelet/a fat tongue wags and Wags/and the feast is under/glass, a vacuum jar/pickled in pure air./I'm a tow bag affair./The barter is for bread,/be pure instead be true/be bloodless, be a martyr/the foot is on the other shoe.

Perfect Hurt
Bradford Gray Telford
The Waywiser Press
PO Box 6205, Baltimore, MD 21206
Dufour Editions (distribution)
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781904130345, $14.95, www.dufoureditions.com

Life is not pain, but how one deals with that pain. "Perfect Hurt" is a collection of poetry from Bradford Gray Telford, using his verse to discuss the world and how the hardships make it a world worth living in. "Perfect Hurt" is a thoughtful poetry read, recommended. "September": I guess I was the quintessential "lad."/They said my having little meant I had//it all, this life before me stretching out,/an endless pocket endlessly turned out./Then planes, fires./Then the first battalion./Then night and smoke and then mere oblivion//sans teeth sans eyes sans taste everything I/used to sing I used to sing I used to sing.


The Computer Shelf

Artificial Intelligence
Thomas W. Rondeau & Charles W. Bostian
Artech House
685 Canton Street, Norwood, MA 02062
9781607832348, $99.00, www.artechhouse.com

As computers become more and more advanced, artificial intelligence becomes more prominent through technology. "Artificial Intelligence in Wireless Communications" is a technological text focusing on the concept of cognitive radio. A highly technical text, "Artificial Intelligence" explains how to develop AI through radio, teaching it to learn from what it experiences and what one needs to do as an engineer to make all of these concepts a reality. Meant for current researchers and students about to delve into this field, "Artificial Intelligence" provides an excellent reference through and through. Enhanced with appendixes explaining the math, terms, and an index, "Artificial Intelligence in Wireless Communication" is a must add to any college library collection dedicated to technology.

Cyber Fraud
James Graham, et al.
CRC Press
c/o Taylor & Francis Group
6000 NW Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite 300, Boca Raton, FL 33487
www.crcpress.com
9781420091274, $79.95, www.amazon.com

With the coming of the computer age came a new brand of criminal conduct which came to be called 'cyber crime'. The use of computers and computer software to illicitly invade, to steal, to corrupt, and to disrupt. From 'lone wolf' amateur hackers to well organized criminal conspiracies, to sophisticated hostile governmental spying, cyber crime has emerged as a serious and daily threat to personal privacy, American business, and even national security. That's why "Cyber Fraud: Tactics, Techniques, And Procedures" is such a timely and critically important instructional textbook. The combined effort of seventeen knowledgeable, experienced, and expert authors and editors, "Cyber Fraud" describes the cyber criminal culture, along with such tactics and strategies employed by cyber defrauders including phishing and pharming, trojans and toolkits, direct threats, pump-and-dump scams, and more. Profusely illustrated with case examples, "Cyber Fraud" also covers how to deal with these various and on-going threats thereby enabling the reader to better understand the nature of these threats and how best to defend against them. Comprehensive, up-to-date, and completely 'user friendly', "Cyber Fraud" is a critically important addition for personal, professional, corporate, academic, and community library Computer Science reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Fundamentals Of Computer Graphics, third edition
Peter Shirley & Steve Marschner
A K Peters, Ltd.
888 Worcester Street, Suite 230, Wellesley, MA 02482
9781568814698, $99.00, www.akpeters.com

Whether for purposes of business, gaming, seeking to develop an outstanding web site for any other purpose, computer graphics are a key factor in the highly competitive world of the internet. The collaborative work of Peter Shirley (Senior Research Scientist at NVIDIA - a world leader in visual computer technologies and the inventor of the GPU) and Steve Marschner (Associate professor of Computer Science, Cornell University), and an impressive roster of experts in the field, this newly updated and expanded third edition of "Fundamentals Of Computer Graphics" continues to be an outstanding and comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of computer graphic technology. Of special note are the new chapters on implicit modeling, computer graphics, color, and information visualization. Superbly organized and thoroughly 'user friendly, this new edition "Fundamentals Of Computer Graphics" is an ideal textbook and highly recommended for computer course curriculums, as well as a personal and professional reference.

Murach's JavaScript and DOM Scripting
Ray Harris
Mike Murach & Associates
4340 North Knoll Avenue, Fresno, CA 93722
www.murach.com
9781890774554, $54.50, www.amazon.com

A superbly organized and presented instruction manual and reference guide, "Murach's JavaScript and DOM Scripting" by JavaScript programming expert Ray Harris is a 764-page compendium that covers every aspect of JavaScript programming. Specifically designed to rapidly but methodically bring the novice JavaScript programmer to a professional standard of execution ability, "Murach's JavaScript and DOM Scripting" covers coding, testing, debugging, HHTML, CSS, JavaScript essentials, DOM scripting, with chapters dedicated to controlling the web browser, and using JavaScript libraries. Of special note is the appendices of instructions for setting up a personal computer specifically for taking full and complete advantage of "Murach's JavaScript and DOM Scripting". Enhanced with an exhaustive index, "Murach's JavaScript and DOM Scripting" is an invaluable and highly recommended addition to personal and professional instructional reference collections.


The Art Shelf

Jean Nouvel by Jean Nouvel
Jean Nouvel & Philip Jodidio
Taschen America LLC
www.taschen.com
9783822857724, $200.00, www.amazon.com

Jean Nouvel has well earned his acclaim as one of France's most talented architects working today. One of his most recent professional honors was achieving the 2008 Pritzker Prize. Now the best of his work is showcased in "Jean Nouvel by Jean Nouvel: Complete Works 1970-2008", an impressive, two volume, 896-page compendium that he designed himself and which is also the truly impressive result of a five year collaborative project with architectural author and editor Philip Jodidio. Here displayed with expert and insightful commentary is a seminal monograph on the man and his work that is as informed and informative as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking. A seminal and comprehensive body of work, "Jean Nouvel by Jean Nouvel: Complete Works 1970-2008" is a very highly recommended core addition to professional and academic Architectural Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Charles Munch, Dreaming In Color
Jody Clowes & Richard Ely
University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe Street, Third Floor, Madison, WI 53711-2059
www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress
9781879483965, $19.95, www.amazon.com

Best known for his luminous paintings showcasing images of people and animals, Charles Munch began his twenty-five year career as an American artist in a poetic realism tradition and gradually evolved to paint the elegant semi-abstractions for which he is acclaimed today. In addition to compiling a superbly illustrated collection, Jody Clowes has provided the reader with an informed and informative essay that along with the inclusion of an extended biographical essay by Richard Ely, and a chronology of the artist's professional accomplishments, life and exhibition history, make "Charles Munch, Dreaming In Color: Paintings 1971-2006" a welcome and highly recommended additions for personal, academic, and community library American Art History collections.

Edwin Howland Blashfield
Mina Rieur Weiner, editor
W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.wwnorton.com
9780393732818, $49.95, www.amazon.com

Edwin Holwand Blashfield (1848-1936) was an acclaimed artist and master mural painter whose work enhanced public buildings and whose working career produced a legacy that has inspired the efforts of his peers and subsequent generations of muralists. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by museum curator Mina Rieur Weiner, "Edwin Howland Blashfield: Master American Muralist" is an impressively informative and beautifully illustrated history that is enhanced with the inclusion of essays by Anne E. Samule (Mural Painting for America: The Artistic production of Edwin Howland Blashfield); Gillian Britta Randell (Observations from a Conservator's Perspective); Jeff Greene (The Legacy of Edwin Howland Blashfield); as well as Mina Rieur Weiner's 'Edwin Howland Blashfield: Defender of the Classic Tradition'. Enhanced with the inclusion of a chronological listing of Blashfield's known murals; as well as a chronology of his life and career; and a selected bibliography, "Edwin Howland Blashfield" is an impressive work of impeccable scholarship and a strongly recommended addition to personal, academic, and community library American Art History collections.


The World History Shelf

The Dying and the Doctors
Ian Mortimer
Boydell & Brewer Inc
668 Mount Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620-2731
9780861933020 $95.00 www.boydellandbrewer.com

Leeches were not always the answer, as some enlightened thinkers soon realized. "The Dying and the Doctors: The Medical Revolution in Seventeenth-Century England" is a history of how great strides in medicine were made during the 1600s and how they strongly affect western medicine to this day. Author Ian Mortimer presents a history of how society came to turn away from God and leeches, to the hands of science to save their lives. Enhanced with countless charts, statistics, and appendixes, "The Dying and the Doctors" is a must for any studying the history of science or subjects related to the Renaissance and Industrial Revolutions.

Robert Paynell's Exchequer Reports (1627-1631)
W. Hamilton Bryson, editor
Medieval & Renaissance Texts & Studies
Arizona State University
PO Box 872508, Tempe, AZ 85287-2508
www.asu.edu/clas/acmrs/publications/mrts/catalo.html
9780866984065, $65.00, www.amazon.com

Born in 1602, Robert Paynell became a barrister in 1645, sat as a justice of the peace in Norfolk, England from 1650 to 1657, and died in 1658. Deftly edited by W. Hamilton Bryson, "Robert Paynell's Exchequer Reports (1627-1631)" is a compilation of Paynell's exchequer cases published in the order that he himself originally made. Profusely footnoted by the editor, these reports provide a wealth of basic information on the seventeenth century Court of Exchequer that will prove invaluable for historical researchers. A work of impressive and impeccable scholarship, "Robert Paynell's Exchequer Reports (1627-1631)" is a valued and highly recommended addition to academic and professorial 17th Century British Judicial History reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Ambitions Tamed: Urban Expansion in Pre-revolutionary Lyon
Pierre Claude Reynard
McGill-Queen's University Press
3430 McTavish Street, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3A 1X9
9780773534926 $85.00 www.mqup.ca 1-800-387-0141

Urban development was an issue before the term urban was even coined. "Ambitions Tamed: Urban Expansion in Pre-Revolutionary Lyon" tells the story of the development of Lyon, which faced a population explosion before the French Revolution. Bringing the history of the city to the forefront, "Ambitions Tamed" blends urban development history with European history as the two conflict and the French monarchists at the time took much convincing. It is also story of Jean-Antoine Morand, a man who became rich off his ideas that helped Lyons. But it was all perhaps lost when the revolution came. "Ambitions Tamed" is a read that would serve well as an addition to both European history and urban development collections.

History is Wrong
Erich Von Daniken
New Page Books
3 Tice Road, PO Box 687, Franklin, NJ 07417
Warwick Associates (publicity)
18340 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, CA 95476
9781601630865, $17.99, www.newpagebooks.com

Ancient history is often up to interpretation. "History is Wrong" is author Erich Von Daniken arguing his stance on the Voynich manuscript, a critical piece of information in the discussion of early human history and lost civilizations. Drawing lines between the Voynich manuscript and other documents that he claims other researchers fail to see, Daniken hopes to challenge readers ideas on history, as well as offer new facts to the table. "History is Wrong" is a must read for anyone with a powerful interest in ancient and pre-history.

Henry VIII
David Loades
The National Archives
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Dr, Dulles, VA 20166
www.internationalpubmarket.com
9781905615421, $19.95, www.amazon.com

He began as the a quintessential prince of the realm, the embodiment of what a future king should be -- athletic, handsome, articulate, courageous, devout, fun loving, charismatic, and intelligent. He ended his royal career as obese, vindictive, self-centered, feared, devious, cruel, and capricious. Along the way he forever altered England and the lives of its nobility and commoners alike. His fame and his infamy are simply legendary in their scope. It is also the subject matter in "Henry VIII: Court, Church, and Conflict" by historian and Tudor era authority David Loades (Professor Emeritus, University of Wales, and Associate of the Centre for Early Modern History, University of Oxford). Informed, informative, insightful, and a masterwork of historical scholarship, "Henry VII" is a fascinating and thoughtful descriptive analysis that is a welcome addition to community and academic library English History collections, and especially recommended reading to students of the Tudor era in general, and the reign of Henry VIII in particular.

Crusade of the Left
Robert A. Rosenstone
Transaction Publishers
Rutgers University
35 Berrue Circle, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8042
9781412809979 $34.95 www.transactionpub.com

International conflicts often bring the attention of those whose nationality isn't involved. "Crusade of the Left: The Lincoln Battalion in the Spanish Civil War" is the story of three thousand American soldiers who sailed to France and joined in to fight alongside the Communist forces at the time, all led by leftist beliefs believing that Communism can work. Not a politically-inclined text, "Crusade of the Left" covers the history of these Americans, why they chose to fight, how they chose to fight and what happened to them. "Crusade of the Left" is of interest to any of those looking for lesser known bits of military history.


The Cookbook Shelf

Delicious Diabetic Recipes
Rani Polak, MD
Imagine Publishing
300 East 34th Street, Suite 21K, New York, NY 10016
www.imaginebks.com
9780982293973, $24.95, www.amazon.com

The medical diagnosis of diabetes is a life changer. Among those fundamental changes are a person's diet. But those dietary changes do not have to mean an end to the gourmet pleasures of the table. Not when there is Dr. Rani Polak's "Delicious Diabetic Recipes: The Gourmet Cookbook For A Health Life" to draw upon for recipes that will please any palate, satisfy any appetite, while adhering to the necessary conditions imposed by diabetes with respect to what can be consumed, what must be avoided, and the physical necessities of nourishing the body while dealing with its special needs. An impressive compilation of dishes that range from Stuffed Peppers with Brown Rice in Tomato Sauce; Beef Should in Fresh Oregano and Root Vegetable Sauce; Mango Sorbet and Fruit Salad with Maple Tahini; and Baby Salad Greens with Stir-Fried Shrimp and Avocado; to Sea Bass Ceviche with Bermuda Onion and Sumac; Beef and Eggplant Hamburgers with Homemade Ketchup; Gazpacho with Raw Beets; and Thai Beef Salad with Onion and Lemongrass, "Delicious Diabetic Recipes" truly lives up to its title. Of special note is that each cited recipe includes an accompanying 'info block' with respect to its calories, total fat, cholesterol, sodium, and other pertinent data. Profusely illustrated throughout, superbly organized and presented with the inclusion of informed and pertinent commentaries about basic ingredients and cooking techniques, "Delicious Diabetic Recipes" is an enthusiastically recommended addition to personal, family, and community library specialty cookbook collections.

Delightful Southern Cooking
Debra S. Grubbs
Roger D. Grubbs, Publisher
PO Box 6188, Winter Park, FL 32793-5188
www.forthevictimsnovel.com
9780981668079, $24.95

Showcasing a compendium of truly outstanding recipes (many of which were handed down to cookbook author Debra Grubbs from her parents, her grandparents, and even her great-grandparents), "Delightful Southern Cooking" truly lives up to its title with recipes ranging from Fried Chicken, Corn Bread; Banana Crunch Cake; and Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars; to Lemon Icebox Pie; Sausage Balls; Hushpuppies; and Old Fashioned Macaroni & Cheese. Healthy, wholesome, delicious, appetite satisfying, and 'kitchen cook friendly', these are dishes that would grace any table for all dining occasions with friends and family. Of special note is an insert section of full color photographs for many of the dishes included in this superlative recipe collection. "Delightful Southern Cooking" is enthusiastically recommended as a welcome and popular addition to family and community library cookbook collections!

At My Table
Fay Lewis
Struik
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Dr, Dulles, VA 20166
www.internationalpubmarket.com
9781770077621, $16.95, www.amazon.com

Beautifully illustrated throughout with full color photography, Fay Lewis' compendium of elegant recipes are as much fun to simply browse as they are inspiring for fine dining occasions with friends and family. From Coffee and Brunch, to Lunch and Afternoon Tea, to Snacks and Dinners, "At My Table" provides a succinct introduction to each dish followed by thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' instructions. From Apricot and Pistachio Biscotti; Cinnamon-Buttermilk Pancakes with Glazed Pears; Mango Chicken with Macadamia Nuts; and Asparagus Quiche; to Carrot Cake; Tomato and Parmesan Puff Pastry Tarts; Rack of Lamb with Green Herb Crust; and Flop-Proof Meringues, "At My Table" offers an impressive culinary compendium that will please even the most discerning gourmet requirements. Enhanced with a glossary and conversion charts, "At My Table" is a welcome and highly recommended addition to family and community library cookbook collections!

The Bryant Family Vineyard Cookbook
Barbara Bryant & Betsy Fentress
Andrews & McMeel
4520 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64111
www.andrewsmcmeel.com
9780740769771, $50.00, www.amazon.com

Showcasing more than eighty truly elegant yet 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes, "The Bryant Family Vineyard Cookbook: Recipes From Great Chefs And Friends" draws upon gourmet quality chefs such as Thomas Keller, Eric Ripert, Jean-Georges, Vongerichten and others. The result is a superior compendium of equally superior dishes that will please any palate and satisfy any appetite. With dishes ranging from Terrance Brennan's 'Mushroom Panna Cotta with Wild Mushroom Escabeche'; to Pilar Sanchez's 'Vegetable Pot-au-Feu'; to Barbara Bryant's 'Baked Wild Rice with onion and Pecans'; to Narsai David's 'Chocolate Decadence', "The Bryant Family Vineyard Cookbook" is a fascinating browse, as well as a welcome and highly recommended addition to personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook collections.


The Martial Arts Shelf

Bagua Quan: Foundation Training
He Jinghan
Singing Dragon
c/o Jessica Kingsley Publishers, Inc.
400 Market Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.singing-dragon.com
9781848190153, $19.95, www.jkp.com

An ancient, respected, and traditional Chinese form of martial art that blends the cultivation of internal strength and control with external movement, the Bagua Quan system regulates and balances the flow of Qi, blood, Yin and Yang. A fifth generation master of Bagua Quan, He Jinghan has written a comprehensive and profusely illustrated instruction manual with "Bagua Quan: Foundation Training", which is specifically designed to introduce the aspiring martial arts student to the underlying philosophy as well as the techniques that comprise the art of Bagua Quan. Of special note is the chapter dedicated to relating He Jinghan's own master's teachings which he is so effectively passing on to a new generation of martial arts students. A compendium of invaluable exercises for improving stamina, strengthening bones, muscle and mind, as well as being enhanced with the inclusion of a glossary and an index, "Bagua Quan: Foundation Training" is very highly recommended and an invaluable addition to personal, profession, and dojo library and reference collections.


The Photography Shelf

Galen Rowell: A Retrospective
Sierra Club Books Editors
Sierra Club Books
85 Second Street, Second Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105-3441
www.sierraclub.org
9781578051595, $39.95, www.amazon.com

Galen Rowell was a master photographer who utilized natural phenomena ranging from sunsets to the northern lights to produce truly memorable and artistic images that rose to museum quality standards of excellence. Dying in an accident at the age of 62, Rowell left behind a body of work that deserves to be memorialized in a compendium that will inspire future generations of what can be done to photographically capture magnificent landscape vistas and ephemeral natural phenomena. That is why "Galen Rowell: A Retrospective", deftly compiled and superbly published by the editorial board of the Sierra Club, is so highly recommended for personal, academic, and community library American Photography collections.


The Music Shelf

Rock & Roll
Cousin Brucie Morrow & Rick Maloof
Imagine Publishing
300 East 34th Street, Suite 21K, New York, NY 10016
9780982306437, $35.00, www.imaginebks.com

Beginning with its pre-rock roots, "Rock & Roll...And The Beat Goes On" by radio music broadcasting legend 'Cousin Brucie' Morrow and rock music historian and practicing musician Rick Maloof is an informed and informative history of rock 'n roll music as it evolved throughout the 1950s, the 1960s, and the earlier years of the 1970s. This almost three decade long 'Golden Age' of an authentically American music spurred on by charismatic performers, gifted songwriters, and talented musicians, was to shape entire generations both here at home and around the world. Often to the dismay of older generations! Profusely illustrated, "Rock & Roll" is a superbly written and presented history that will serve to stir up nostalgia for those lived through magnificent era that and had their own musical tastes and imaginations shaped by the bands and the performers, the radio jocks and American Bandstand style television programs. Enhanced with a foreword by Brian Wilson and a preface by Petula Clark, "Rock & Roll" is enthusiastically recommended for personal, academic, and community library American Music History and American Popular Culture collections.

Jane Austen Sings the Blues
Nora Foster Stovel, editor
University of Alberta Press
Ring House 2, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6G 2E1
9780888645104 $26.95 www.uap.ualberta.ca

Pride and Prejudice and Blues are what these people are about. "Jane Austen Sings the Blues" is a collection of essays from scholars with a strange at first cross of interests - the famed eighteenth century English writer and Blues music. Blending the two concepts and presenting them throughout as memoir, poetry, and thanks to an included music CD, blues music. "Jane Austen Sings the Blues" is an unusual combo, but one that works surprisingly well.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

The Seven Questions You're Asked in Heaven
Ron Wolfson
Jewish Lights Publishing
Sunset Farm Offices, Route 4, PO Box 237, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781580234078, $16.99, www.jewishlights.com

When it all is said and done, what will be the questions? "The Seven Questions You're Asked in Heaven: Reviewing & Renewing Your Life on Earth" uses the title question to offer an enlightening spiritual volume which he hopes will help people look at their lives and reevaluate what's truly important. Written in a light-hearted style that will entertain as it makes readers think, "The Seven Questions You're Asked in Heaven" is of strong consideration to many reader looking for a fresh look at faith.

Early Judaism
George W. E. Nickelsburg & Michael E. Stone
Fortress Press
PO Box 59303, Minneapolis, MN 55459-0304
9780800662868, $32.00, www.fortresspress.com

Judaism is one of the oldest religions in the world. "Early Judaism: Texts and Documents on Faith and Piety" traces the lines back to the earliest days of this ancient religion and looks at its early belief and how the faith was truly started and got spread throughout the middle east, during a time where monotheism was a strange and focusing belief. "Early Judaism: Texts and Documents on Faith and Piety" is a fine and scholarly addition to any Judaic or world history collection, highly recommended.

Imagining Holiness
Justin Jaron Lewis
McGill-Queen's University Press
3430 McTavish Street, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3A 1X9
9780773535190 $49.95 www.mqup.ca 1-800-387-0141

A story has little purpose if it cannot be applied to modern times. "Imagining Holiness: Classic Hasidic Tales in Modern Times" is an analysis of classical Hasidic tales of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century and how they still hold relevance roughly one hundred years later for Hasidism. By studying the literature of this sect, readers will gain a greater understanding of Hasidic culture through their works. Discussing the common themes in the works, their origins, and their impact on society, "Imagining Holiness' is a must for anyone who wants to better understand these classical works.

Against All Hope
Hermann Langbein, author
Harry Zohn, translator
Paragon House
1925 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 7, St. Paul, MN 55113-2619
9781557788825 $24.95 www.paragonhouse.com

Dissent is a natural part of human nature, and not all of the concentration camp victims did nothing to stop their fate. "Against All Hope: Resistance in the Nazi Concentration Camps 1938-1945" documents the stories of those who fought back against the Nazi concentration camps within. Author Hermann Langbein brings to light the little-known resistance movements in these many camps. "Against All Hope" is an uplifting story about those who would not just stand by and let evil be done to them.


The Social Issues Shelf

The Increase in Leisure Inequality
Mark Aguiar & Erik Hurst
American Enterprise Institute
1150 Seventeenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780844743134, $15.00, www.aei.org

The rich take multiple trips to exotic locations every year. The poor get maybe a weekend at a nearby relative's. Maybe. "The Increase in Leisure Inequality 1965-2005" discusses how America's working class more and more often seems to be getting less leisure time, being forced to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. Mark Aguiar & Erik Hurst investigate these trends pointing out inconsistencies at multiple levels in society, who gets the most time for themselves, and most importantly, why it matters. "The Increase in Leisure Inequality" is a fascinating read that sheds some light on modern America, enthusiastically recommended.

Marijuana is Safer
Steve Fox, Paul Armentano, and Mason Tvert
Chelsea Green Publishing Company
Box 428, White River Junction, VT 05001-0428
9781603581448 $14.95 www.chelseagreen.com

With each passing year, more and more Americans are agreeing. "Marijuana is Safer: So Why Are We Driving People to Drink?" is a discussion of the current laws prohibiting marijuana use in the public, which the authors describe as simply 'draconic'. The premise is that marijuana has little confirmed scientific effect, while alcoholic beverages cause thousands of deaths per year (from wrongful use to alcohol related deaths). Therefore, why should marijuana be illegal when alcohol is not? "Marijuana is Safer" is an informative and enlightening read on the place of marijuana in today's society.

Dismantling Privilege, revised and updated
Mary Elizabeth Hobgood
The Pilgrim Press
700 Prospect Avenue East, Cleveland, OH 44115-1100
9780829818239 $20.00 www.pilgrimpress.com

Why is there so much special treatment in today's society? "Dismantling Privilege: An Ethics of Accountability- Revised & Updated" is an exploration of modern society and the favoritism that appears on many of its levels. Race, sex, economical class, and more all seem to operate by different views, yet many established religions and ethical systems such as Christianity do not endorse such differentiation. Speaking on this subject in a broad scope that goes through those divisions, "Dismantling Privilege" is an endless fascinating read that is sure to inform and educate many readers about the divide the world has today.

Blackout
Richard Heinberg
New Society Publishers
PO Box 189, Gabriola Island, BC V0R 1X0, Canada
Perseus Distribution (distribution)
193 Edwards Drive, Jackson, TN 38301-7716
9780865716568, $18.95, www.newsociety.com

Coal is a major provider of much of America's energy, but like oil, it is finite. "Blackout: Coal, Climate, and the Last Energy Crisis" discusses the serious issue that could go ignored in the face of other issues - the problem of peak coal production and the reliance the world has on it. With chapters on coal use throughout the world, 'clean' coal, and more, "Blackout" is a fairly complete and comprehensive volume on the subject.

Wage Theft in America
Kim Bobo
The New Press
38 Greene Street, New York, NY 10013
9781595584458, $17.95, www.thenewpress.com

A major portion of one's life is spent working, but there are those who would deny compensation for that labor. "Wage Theft in America: Why Millions of Working Americans Are Not Getting Paid - And What We Can Do About It" tells the story about a lesser known crisis in modern America where people are being paid less than minimum wage, and being forced to work unpaid overtime. Kim Bobo encourages readers to help stand against such practices where employers exploit their employees to make themselves richer. "Wage Theft in America" addresses this issue and offers many solutions.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

The Poet-Physician and the Healer-Killer
Roberta Kalechofsky
Micah Publications
255 Humphrey St., Marblehead, MA 01945
9780916288556, $22.00

Vivisection has been the subject of much modern debate. "The Poet Physician and the Healer-Killer: Vivisection and the Emergence of a Medical Technocracy" is a discussion, history and partial memoir from Roberta Kalechofsky. Exploring the history of vivisection, its protesters from the earliest days to the more modern era, "The Poet-Physician and the Healer-Killer" also offers her own experience as a doctor with the concept. "The Poet Physician and the Healer-Killer" is an intriguing perspective on vivisection, highly recommended.

Why Our Health Matters
Andrew Weil, M.D.
Hudson Street Press
c/o The Penguin Press
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9781594630668 $25.95 www.penguin.com 1-800-847-5515

As the health care debate rages on, many Americans confused. "Why Our Health Matters: A Vision of Medicine That Can Transform Our Future" is one man's argument for the establishment of nationalized healthcare, with reasons why the health of the American people is vital to the progress of our society as a whole. Written by Doctor Andrew Weil, "Why Our Health Matters" is filled with ideas drawing upon his vast experience. "Why Our Health Matters" is something to strongly consider when debating the current arguments surrounding America's health.

The Cleveland Clinic Guide to Arthritis
John D. Clough
Kaplan Publishing
1 Liberty Plaza, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10006
9781427799562, $14.95, www.kaplanpublishing.com

Arthritis is a highly debilitating condition, causing many people to live in constant pain. "The Cleveland Clinic Guide to Arthritis: Everything You Need to Know About the Many Forms of Arthritis from a renowned Rheumatology Expert" discusses arthritis in depth, outlining the different types one would face, how to know when to seek a doctor for potential diagnosis, the impact of diet and exercise, and more. There is no shortage of medical expertise within. "The Cleveland Clinic Guide to Arthritis" is from a leading medical professional on the subject and is a must for anyone who thinks they may have arthritis.

An A-Z Guide to Food Additives
Deanna M. Minich
Conari Wellness
c/o Red Wheel Weiser Conari Book Publishers
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
9781573244039, $9.95, www.redwheelweiser.com

Polyvinylpyrrolidone, does anything sound more delicious than that? "An A-Z Guide to Food Additives: Never Eat What You Can't Pronounce" is a guide for readers who want to better understand the long and commonly incomprehensible things that go into today's processed food. Designed to be carried in the back pocket of the health conscious, this dictionary covers each of these chemicals, their alternate names, and more. For anyone concerned about what exactly they are putting in their mouths, "An A-Z Guide to Food Additives" is a handy and solid reference.


The Travel Shelf

The Beachcomber's Guide to Seashore Life, revised edition
J. Duane Sept
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219, Madeira Park, BC V0N 2H0
9781550174533, $26.95, www.harbourpublishing.com

Part of the beauty of the Pacific Northwestern coast is the life. Now in a newly revised edition, "The Beachcomber's Guide to Seashore Life: in the Pacific Northwest" is a guide for those who want to gain a better understanding of the life that sits along the beaches of the northwest. Topics covered include crabs, starfish, and fish, to the shore, coast, and nearby ocean, and more, all presented in full color with photos of most of the creatures discussed. Any nature lover needs the revised edition of "The Beachcomber's Guide to Seashore Life: In the Pacific Northwest".

Paris Movie Walks
Michael Schurmann
The Intrepid Traveler
PO Box 531, Branford, CT 06405
9781887140836 $15.95 www.intrepidtraveler.com

France has a movie scene all its own, and many American fans of it will be attracted to their landmarks. "Paris Movie Walks: Ten Guided Tours Through the City of Lights! Camera! Action!" is a guide for the movie lover and Paris lover, as the tours take tours through significant spots that consist both of Parisian film spots and areas where American stars made their mark in Paris. "Paris Movie Walks" is a must for any movie buff making the pilgrimage to Paris in the future.

Going Coastal New York City, second edition
Barbara La Rocco
Fordham University Press
2546 Belmont Avenue, University Box L, Bronx, NY 10458-5172
9780823230242, $22.95, www.goingcoastal.org

The coasts of New York have a certain charm to them, blending the beauty of the skyline with the natural beauty of the Atlantic. Now in an updated and expanded second edition, "Going Coastal New York City" is a guide for those with an enthusiasm for the beaches and coasts of America. Outlining the activities one can do on these waterfronts, Barbara La Rocco does well in fully offering the coast lover everything they want and need. "Going Coastal New York City" is another solid recommended reference that emerges from the Going Coastal series.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

The Uncommon Path of Awakening Authentic Joy
Mick Quinn
O Books
c/o National Book Network
PO Box 62188, Baltimore, MD 21264-2188
9781846942082, $24.95, www.o-books.net

The path to true happiness lies on a concealed road within us. "The Uncommon Path of Awakening Authentic Joy: An Integral Guide to Uncovering Concealed Conditioning" is a metaphysical philosophy book hoping to help readers find the true happiness. Filled with much to intrigue readers about the psyche beneath the psyche, "The Uncommon Path of Awakening Authentic Joy" hopes to help people find a more complete life. "The Uncommon Path of Awakening Authentic Joy" is a strong choice for metaphysical psychology readers.

Elemental Shaman
Omar W. Rosales
Llewellyn Worldwide, LTD.
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125
9780738715018 $18.95 www.llewellyn.com 1-800-843-6666

People will travel thousands of miles just to gain a greater understanding of the universe. "Elemental Shaman: One Man's Journey into the Heart of Humanity, Spirituality, & Ecology" is a delve into the Shamanistic traditions of four cultures and how author Omar W. Rosales embraced them for a greater understanding of the spiritual world as a whole. A worthwhile read for anyone seeking to experience spirituality through the scopes of multiple religions, "Elemental Shaman" is a top recommendation.

Advanced Chi Nei Tsang
Mantak Chia
Destiny Books
c/o Inner Traditions
One Park Street, Rochester, Vermont 05767
9781594770555 $14.95 www.DestinyBooks.com

A good flow of energy out of the body is one way to stay healthy. "Advanced Chi Nei Tsang: Enhancing Chi Energy in the Vital Organs" is a guide to the chi energy that resides in all of our bodies. This energy, if left unused, stagnates and manifests itself as illness, leaving people feeling less than their body. Mantak Chia offers his approach to better health through embracing a flow of Chi energy, making "Advanced Chi Nei Tsang" of interest to any with a strong interest in metaphysical spirituality.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Everyday Justice
Alan J. Talley & Scott Holzknecht
Saint Mary's Press
702 Terrace Heights, Winona, MN 55987-1318
9780884898580, $13.95, www.smp.org

Little bits of wisdom are all one needs to keep themselves chugging through life. "Everyday Justice: 365 Reflections" is a collection of Catholic oriented teachings for readers, intended to be read day by day for a daily reaffirmation of faith, something that so often takes a beating from life. "Everyday Justice" is a treasure trove for the faithful, a highly recommended read.

Correspondences of the Bible
John Worcester
Swedenborg Foundation
320 North Church Street, West Chester, PA 19380
9780877851127, $39.95, www.swedenborg.com

How does the human body relate to the heavens? "Correspondences of the Bible: The Human Body" is another entry into the Correspondences of the Bible series, this time focusing on the human body and the symbolism it carries to the religion and to the community of God. Hoping to help readers understand the Bible more as well as their own body, John Worcester creates an intriguing parallel for readers that will make them think and perhaps increase their faith. "Correspondences of the Bible" is a fine addition to any Christian studies collection, sure to catch the eyes of many inquiring Christians.

Power and Practices
Jeremy M. Bergen, Anthony G. Siegrist, & Glen Harold Stassen, editors
Herald Press
616 Walnut Avenue, Scottsdale, PA 15683-1999
www.heraldpress.com 1-800-759-4447
9780836194470 $12.99, www.amazon.com

Society changes, and Christianity must change with it. "Power and Practices: Engaging the Work of John Howard Yoder" looks at the modern Christian thinker John Howard Yoder and what scholars have taken away from his writings and thoughts on current issues from a Christian perspective. Sexism, political turmoil, and theology are all discussed, making "Power and Practices" a solid and highly recommended read for Christians who ponder their faith's place in the world.

The Lost Commandment
Dave Greber
Kregel Publications
PO Box 2607, Grand Rapids, MI 49501
www.kregelpublications.com 1-800-733-2607
9780825429354 $13.99, www.amazon.com

Jesus never promoted hate, so why is there so much hate in Christianity today? "The Lost Commandment: Have We Missed What Jesus Really Wants?" draws upon the verse in the book of John, that simply states that Jesus wishes for people to love one another as he has loved them. Discussing the meaning of this verse and packed with materials for study, "The Lost Commandment" is of interest to anyone looking for valuable subjects for Bible study.

Love as a Way of Life
Gary Chapman
Waterbrook Press
12265 Oracle, Boulevard, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
www.waterbrookmultnomah.com
9781400072590, $13.95, www.amazon.com

Love is a versatile and powerful emotion. "Love as a Way of Life: Seven Keys to Transforming Every Aspect of Your Life" is a guide for bringing love into more of one's life. Using the seven traits of love, traits such as forgiveness, generosity, and humility, author Gary Chapman does very well in his inspiring of readers to bring a more positive and ultimately happier outlook on life. "Love as a Way of Life" may be the pick me up some readers need to just enjoy life once more.

Making Your Emotions Work for You
Harold Sala
Harvest House
990 Owen Loop North, Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
www.harvesthousepublishers.com
9780736925730, $12.99, www.amazon.com

Stress can be the greatest debilitator or the greatest motivator. "Making Your Emotions Work for You: Coping with Stress, Avoiding Burnout, Overcoming Fear...and More" is a Christian's guide to facing one's emotions and overcoming them. With advice on using one's emotions to your benefit, defeating boredom, and more, author Harold J. Sala does well in bringing the word of God into dealing with one's emotions. "Making Your Emotions Work for You" is of solid and highly recommended reading for Christians who struggle to keep hold of themselves.

In the Presence of the Poor
Kay Marshall Strom
Authentic Publishing
1820 Jet Stream Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
B&B Media Group
109 South Main Street Corsicana, TX 75110
9781606570128 $12.99 www.authenticpublishing.com

The caste system, although not officially practiced in India, still holds some ground in the modern day. "In the Presence of the Poor: Changing the Face of India" from Kay Marshall Strom tells the story of one Dr. Vijayam, an Indian man of science who embraced Jesus and began his work to help the poor he felt previously powerless to help, attempting to use God's word to combat the Hindu-oriented caste system. "In the Presence of the Poor" is a powerful story of using religion for social progress.

A Different Kind of Wild
Debbie Alsdorf
Revell
c/o Baker Publishing Group
PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287
9780800733667 $12.99 www.bakerbooks.com

Faith doesn't have to be boring. "A Different Kind of Wild: Is Your Faith Too Tame?" is author Debbie Alsdorf's approach to faith using a concept she calls WILD - Women in Lifelong Development. Encouraging women to live more exciting and fulfilling loves as women of the world who have fun while holding reverence for God, Debbie Alsdorf presents an intriguing and fresh way of exploring God. "A Different Kind of Wild" is an original book for women of Christian faith looking for a different sort of inspiration in their lives.

Seasons of the Soul
Bruce Demarest
Formatio
c/o InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1426
9780830835355, $16.00, www.ivpress.com

Faith sits right beside someone on the roller coaster of life. "Seasons of the Soul: Stages of Spiritual Development" is a discussion of the unique journey every Christian takes through their life through simply laying their faith and their lives into the hands of Christ. Hoping to inspire Christians to greater faith, "Seasons of the Soul" is of strong interests for those looking to better understand Christ and their own faith.

God Stories
Andrew Wilson
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9781434765390, $14.99, www.davidccook.com

The Holy Bible has much to motivate and inspire...and entertain? "God Stories: Exploration in the Gospel of God" discusses the stories within the Bible and the epic tale of God that is woven through it. The Bible from cover to cover is one of the greatest stories ever told, from Genesis to Revelations. "God Stories" expands this concept while still remaining true to the faith, saying that the method of the story is part of the spiritual message.


The Biography Shelf

Fidel & Gabo
Angel Esteban & Stephanie Panichelli
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street,5th Floor, New York, NY 10004
9781605980584 $26.00 www.pegasusbooks.com

One is a legendary writer, the other is a despised dictator, yet they are best of friends. "Fidel & Gabo: A Portrait of the Legendary Friendship Between Fidel Castro and Gabriel Garcia Marquez" investigates the relationship between the Nobel Prize winning author and the Communist dictator of Cuba. Seemingly an odd couple, their bond seems to find strength in their similar political views, but there is more to it than that. Endlessly intriguing, "Fidel & Gabo" is well worth the read for those trying to better understand Gabriel as well as Castro.

Seychelles Global Citizen
James R. Mancham
Paragon House
1925 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 7, St. Paul, MN 55113-2619
9781557788870 $24.95 www.paragonhouse.com

The Cold War was called cold because there was no direct confrontation, but that doesn't mean there weren't conflicts. "Seychelles Global Citizen: The Autobiography of the Founding President of the Republic of Seychelles" is the biography of a man who was President of the small Island Nation of Seychelles after the island was given its independence in 1976. Although only president for a year before a communist coup overthrew him, he presents a unique perspective on the cold war that's unlikely to be duplicated. "Seychelles Global Citizen" is a fascinating read that should not be missed by history buffs.

Public Poet, Private Man
Christoph Irmscher
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
9781558495845 $24.95 www.umass.edu/umpress 1-800-537-5487

Some men are pioneers of their art form during their eras. "Public Poet, Private Man: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow At 200" is a biography of one of the premier authors and poets of the early nineteenth century in America, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. A man of the world, Henry believed that American literature should be like its people, the best from around the world. His life is an important one in the history of American literature, making "Public Poet, Private Man" a fine entry into any literary or biography collection.

Beautiful Hardship: My Story
B. Michael Fett
Millennial Mind Publishing
c/o American Book Publishing
5442 So. 900 East, #146, Salt Lake City, UT 84117-7204
9781589825550 $22.00 www.american-book.com

If you've made bad decisions all your life, it doesn't mean it's too late to start making good ones. "Beautiful Hardship: My Story" is the autobiography of Bret Michael Fett, whose career as bodybuilder led him down a dark road of steroid abuse. But when he tried to get his life on track by becoming a commercial airline pilot, the aftermath of September 11th left him without a job and soon without a home. An inspirational story of turning one's life around and keeping the fight up even when the world beats you down, "Beautiful Hardship" is quite the read, a highly recommended treasure.

The Road to Siena
Edmund G. Gardner, author
Jon M. Sweeney, editor
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568, Orleans, MA 02653
9781557256218 $21.99 www.paracletepress.com

The lives of saints are exceptional of those who rose beyond their peers to earn their title. "The Road to Siena: The Essential Biography of St. Catherine" is the story of the life and times of one of the most treasured saints of Italy, Catherine of Siena. A bold woman who stood up for the people while speaking out against the queen with honesty, her life is covered with much depth to help readers gain a feel for who the woman truly was. "The Road to Siena" is a must read for those who want to better understand the people who became the saints.

The Life of Mary Queen of Scots
Roderick Graham
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street,5th Floor, New York, NY 10004
9781605980492 $35.00 www.pegasusbooks.com

Even when one is when born into nobility, there is no guarantee of a good end. "The Life of Mary, Queen of Scots: An Accidental Tragedy" follows the life story of one of the most intriguing figures in European monarchy. Crowned queen shortly after her birth and married to two short lived husbands, her life started going downhill when she found herself imprisoned and eventually executed by Queen Elizabeth I of England. "The Life of Mary, Queen of Scots" is a fine addition to any European history collection.

Cops, Crooks, and Other Crazies
George C. Nuttall
New Century Press
1055 Bay Blvd., Suite C, Chula, Vista, CA 91911
9781890035747, $24.95, www.newcenturypress.com

From normal people having a bad day to the crazies, "Cops, Crooks, and Other Crazies: Memoirs of 31 Years in the San Diego Police Department and the California Highway Patrol" is the reflections of the author George C. Nuttall's time as a highway patrolman. "Cops, Crooks, and Other Crazies" has no shortage of intriguing stories that will entertain readers as well as make readers sympathize with the plights of some of these so called criminals. Nuttall provides a wide range of stories that range from the scum of the earth to the leaders of nations. "Cops, Crooks, and Other Crazies" is a top pick for memoir collections.

Roses and Revolutions
Dudley Randall
Wayne State University Press
4809 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201-1309
9780814334454, $27.95, www.wsupress.wayne.edu

One of the foremost icons of African American literature and poetry, "Roses and Revolutions: The Selected Writings of Dudley Randall" offers readers a dive into the mind of one Dudley Randall, using his work in short fiction and poetry as an exploration of his beliefs, drawing conclusions on his impact on black literature. "Roses and Revolutions" is a seminal addition to any literary collection focusing on African American literary history.

A Mother's Search for Meaning
Roberta Bandy
Concordia Publishing House
3558 South Jefferson Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63118-3968
9780758617774 $9.99 www.cph.org 1-800-325-3040

A child with a disorder is not a child to shunned. "A Mother's Search for Meaning: The Dance Goes On..." tells the story of Roberta Brandy and her son Rob. Rob was born with a rare disorder that made his life short, but during his life, there was much Roberta gained. A Christian oriented inspirational book, "A Mother's Search for Meaning" will ring true for other Christian parents of disabled children. "A Mother's Search for Meaning" is ultimately an uplifting read.

Yakuza Moon
Shoko Tendo
Kodansha America, Inc.
451 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
9784770030863 $11.95 www.kodanshaamercia.com 1-800-451-7556

What's it like, growing up in a family of crime? "Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster's Daughter" is the memoir of Shoko Tendo, born to a member of a street gang. Remembering her home life, and how she began to turn her life around for the better, she presents a vivid account of what a life of crime does to one's children, and what it is like to grow up dubbed as the 'yakuza kid'. "Yakuza Moon" is a highly intriguing and fascinating story that is sure to please any true crime reader.

By His Own Wits
John Meers
North Star Press of St. Cloud, Inc.
PO Box 451, St. Cloud MN 56302
9780878393053, $14.95, www.northstarpress.com

It's the American dream. "By His Own Wits: A Polish Orphan Finds a Future in the United States" is the touching story that has inspired so many throughout the years. John Meers fled Poland early in life during World War II, and the life he found in the United States. Not a perfect example of the American dream, Meers faced much hardship throughout his life and even when he started to pull himself up and make his life in the United States. A moving story that is sure to inspire readers with the tenacity of the human spirit, "By His Own Wits" is a solid and recommended read for memoir and biography fans.


The Self-Help Shelf

Good Influence
Daniel R. Heischman
Morehouse Publishing
445 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016
9780819223630, $16.00

There is a certain wisdom that comes with age that is passed from generation to generation. "Good Influence: Teaching the Wisdom of Adulthood" is a musing of the wisdom that comes with age and how to teach it. Daniel R. Heischman discusses age and maturity, stating there are things that some adults need to do to earn the respect of younger people. "Good Influence" is well worth the read for anyone who is trying to be an effective mentor.

Moments of Being
Barrie Brett
Morgan James Publishing, LLC
1225 Franklin Ave., Ste 325, Garden City, NY 11530-1693
9781600376245 $19.95 www.MorganJamesPublishing.com

Radical changes are oh so possible throughout one's life. "Moments of Being: ...Finding Your One Moment in Time" examines the brief moments in time that change lives, provide epiphanies and change the very course of one's being. These moments however, are not always positive and if not handled properly, may lead one down the wrong path in life. "Moments of Being" is a fine and recommended read for those trapped in one of these life altering moments and want the better outcome.

Love Each Day
Gail Bernice Holland
Modern History Press
c/o Loving Healing Press
5145 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
9781932690798 $16.95 www.lovinghealing.com

A day hated is a day wasted. "Love Each Day: Live Each Day So You Would Want to Live it Again" is a collection of inspirational true stories about making the most out of each day. With advice from normal everyday people on countless assorted walks of life, their stories grant readers the enlightenment they seek to help gain a more complete and comprehensive grasp of what one needs to truly be happy. "Love Each Day" is a pick me up with real, down to earth advice for the common man.


The Education Shelf

Students with Asperger Syndrome
Lorraine E. Wolf, Jane Thierfeld Brown, G. Ruth Kukiela Bork, et. al.
Autism Asperger Publishing Co.
PO Box 23173, Shawnee Mission, KS 66283
9781934575390, $26.95, www.asperger.net

Asperger's is a unique condition in that it's not necessarily an impairment. "Students with Asperger Syndrome: A Guide for College Personnel" discusses Asperger syndrome and how college-level educators and administrators should deal with students affected with the condition and how these students are different from the others. Defining Asperger's and how it will affect the many different avenues of campus life, "Students with Asperger Syndrome" is a strong and highly recommended pick for these teachers who may not be familiar with Asperger's.

Teacher Practice Online
Desiree H. Pointer Mace
Teacher's College Press
1234 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027
9780807749685, $25.95, www.tcpress.com

With young, impressionable minds in their hands, teachers need to be at their best. "Teacher Practice Online: Sharing Wisdom, Opening Doors" is a guide for teachers for using the internet to improve their craft and improve their skills when it comes to teaching students at any age. All across the internet there is a teaching brain trust that many teachers can draw wisdom from. "Teacher Practice Online" is a guide for teachers to finding and using this wisdom to the fullest, making an ideal pick for any educator who wants the best possible for their students.

200+ Educational Strategies To Teach Children of Color
Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu
African American Images
PO Box 1799, Chicago Heights, IL 60412
9781934155196 $14.95 africanamericanimages.com

What cultural differences must one take into account when dealing with colored students? "200+ Educational Strategies to Teach Children of Color" is a guide packed cover to cover for educators filled with simple straightforward strategies for educators to give them a leg up in educating their students and how to approach and motivate them. "200+ Educational Strategies to Teach Children of Color" is a fine addition to any educational collection focusing on multicultural education.

Rethinking Homework
Cathy Vatterott
ASCD
1703 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
9781416608257, $23.95, www.ascd.org/books

Students everywhere hate it, but is it rightfully so? "Rethinking Homework: Best Practices That Support Diverse Needs" is an educational discussion of homework and its role in the modern educational processes. Presenting both sides of the homework debate, Cathy Vatterott chooses instead to focus on a different approach that supports quality over quantity of work, and encouraging children to get it done while not punishing them too harshly if they cannot. "Rethinking Homework" is an excellent pick and highly recommended reading for those planning today's curriculums.

ACT or SAT?
Josh Bornstein & Rebecca Lessem
The Princeton Review
c/o Random House
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
9780375429248, $15.99, www.princetonreview.com

Both have become accepted at many of the major schools throughout the country. "ACT or SAT?: Choosing the Right Exam for You" is a guide for potential college attendees who want to know which entrance exam will prove better for them to increase their chances for their future. Outlining the various different nuances between the two tests, the advantages and disadvantages, and how some aspects of one's personality will apply better to each, almost every aspect of each test is covered. Any aspiring college student should consider "ACT or SAT?", a very thorough resource.


The International Studies Shelf

The Handbook of Country Risk
Coface
GMB Publishing
525 South 4th Street, Suite 241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9781846731723, $125.00, www.globalmarketbriefings.com

Not every country has the same relative political stability that the United States promotes. "The Handbook of Country Risk: 2009-2010" is a complete and comprehensive business guide for those who want to expand into international territory for their business. Continent by continent, country by country, the people at Coface present a scholarly manual that would do well in being in the library of any aspiring international business. Weaknesses, strengths, and other key information grace each entry, giving readers a greater understanding of each country and its prospects for profit. "The Handbook of Country Risk" is simply an absolute must.

What is Iran?
Laurie Blanton Pierce
Herald Press
616 Walnut Avenue, Scottsdale, PA 15683-1999
9780836194463 $12.99 www.heraldpress.com 1-800-759-4447

Ignorance breeds hatred when it's not necessary. "What is Iran?: A Primer on Culture, Politics, and Religion" is a guide hoping to drive Americans to gain a better understanding of Iran and its people by discussing its history, culture, and how Iran stands in the modern day in international affairs such as terrorism. For anyone who is looking for a solid introductory on the nation of Iran, "What is Iran?" is a solid choice that encourages readers direct their hate at the governments, not the people, and understand what Iran is truly responsible for.

Negotiating with Iran
John W. Limbert
United States Institute of Peace Press
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172
9781601270436 $14.95 www.usip.org 1-800-868-8064

Iran is something that must be approached gingerly. "Negotiating with Iran: Wrestling the Ghosts
of History" discusses how to approach the Iranian government when the United States and Iran have had a shaky relationship for decades, through much of the countries' shared existence. John Limbert puts his scholarly mind with advice to diplomats and other international negotiators on how to come out of this conflict a more peaceful world, and averting a potential nuclear crisis. "Negotiating with Iran" is a wise and highly recommended read for those who seek a better understanding of the current crisis.

Russia and the North
Elana Wilson Rowe, editor
University of Ottawa Press
542 King Edward, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1N 6N5
9780776607009 $29.00 www.uporess.uottawa.ca 1-800-565-9523

If you look at a standard map, it may not seem Norway is neighbors with Russia and Canada, but that's because you aren't looking north. "Russia and the North" is a scholarly discussion of Russia and its international disputes with its nearby neighbors via the North Pole. The arctic carries its own politics and dilemmas that these nations in unison must cooperate over - fishing rights, climate change, territorial issues, and more. "Russia and the North" is an intriguing look at a set of politics that so often goes ignored in international affairs.


The Gardening Shelf

A Weed by Any Other Name
Nancy Gift
Beacon Press
25 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108-2892
9780807085523, $23.95, www.beacon.org

Weeds are still life, and there can be a certain beauty to them. "A Weed By Any Other Name: The Virtues of a Messy Lawn, or Learning to Love the Plants We Don't Plant" is a gardening manual with a new approach to weeds. Nancy Gift preaches a new method of gardening, pushing people to instead embrace the natural life on their lawn. With recipes to use some of these so called 'weed', Gift presents an intriguing gardening book. For this reason, "A Weed By Any Other Name" is a solid and recommended read for those sick of de-weeding their lawn.


The Gay Studies Shelf

Smash the Church, Smash the State
Tommi Avicolli Mecca, editor
City Lights Publishers
261 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
9780872864979, $18.95

When everyone hates you, it's natural to hate them right back. "Smash the Church, Smash the State!: The Early Years of Gay Liberation" is a look at the early days of gay liberation where much of society grew finally tired of hiding a major part of them and took a stand for their rights. A fight that rages on to this day, the stories of those who threw the first stone are inspiring and will motivate current civil rights fighter to stand their ground. "Smash the Church, Smash the State!" is an ideal addition to any history collection focusing on civil rights.


The Fiction Shelf

The Ice Chorus
Sarah Stonich
Alma Books Ltd.
c/o Literary Ventures Fund (publicity)
154 Christopher Street, NY 10014
9781846880827 $14.95 www.literaryventuresfund.org

Marriages stagnate and passions die. "The Ice Chorus" tells the story Liselle Dupre as she relocates to Ireland after a failed marriage in Toronto. She soon finds that the lack of passion that broke her marriage will quickly return as she finds a gentleman called Charlie. New love and new surroundings make for quite the adventure for Liselle, making "The Ice Chorus" a romance that will delight many a reader.

Distant Thunder
Jimmy Root Jr.
Bedside Books
c/o American Book Publishing
5442 So. 900 East, #146, Salt Lake City, UT 84117-7204
9781589825536 $24.95 www.american-book.com

Israel throughout its existence has stood tall, but no one should think of them as saints. "Distant Thunder" takes a fictional situation that holds some ground in reality, the question of what would happen if the world turned its back on Israel. Following the story of American Pastor Ty Dempsey and Israeli military man Moshe Eldan, Jimmy Root weaves an intriguing what if story of a world turning to chaos. "Distant Thunder" a fascinating thriller sure to keep the pages turning.

Blue Shadows Farm
Jerry Apps
Terrace Books
c/o University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe Street, Third Floor, Madison, WI 53711-2059
9780299232504 $26.95 www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress 1-800-621-2736

When a family stays in one place for a century, that place becomes a member of the family. "Blue Shadows Farm" is a novel taking place over a century as three generations of Starkweathers care for a farm and face their own challenges. A small area in Wisconsin, Silas comes to found the farm in the mid nineteenth century. His son Abe finds himself bootlegging to keep the bills paid during prohibition, and Abe's daughter is challenged with its sale. Bouncing between the perspectives of the three protagonists, "Blue Shadows Farm" paints a vivid picture of the history of rural America, making for one intriguing and entertaining tale.

Sometimes We're Always Real Same-Same
Mattox Roesch
Unbridled Books
2000 Wadsworth Boulevard, #195, Lakewood, CO 80214
9781932961874 $15.95 www.unbridledbooks.com 1-888-732-3822

Transplanted from LA to Alaska is a heck of a shift. "Sometimes We're Always Real Same-Same" is the story of young Cesar, a young man who has embraced urban culture when his mother moves them to Alaska in a small village where she grew up. A fish out of water, Cesar has to make his way in life and into adulthood in a place that's totally alien to him. "Sometimes We're Always Real Same-Same" is a charming and unique coming of age tale, well composed and a worthwhile read.

Slow Burn
George Alexander
University of Western Australia Press
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 Northeast 58th Avenue, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213
9781921401244 $22.50 www.isbs.com 1-800-944-6190

Chaos comes in layers, especially for one Alex Tolman. "Slow Burn" is a work of literary fiction from Australia telling the story of Alex, a man who is torn apart by his emotions during his serious marriage issues which may lead to divorce. As a reporter, he has to cover the stories of a terrorist organization which threatens Sydney, in a story which combines many of the problems of contemporary Australia. "Slow Burn" provides an entertaining story as well as a fine picture of Australian politics.

Creede of Old Montana
Stephen Bly
Center Point Large Print
600 Brooks Road, PO Box 1, Thorndike, ME 04986-0001
9781602855755, $29.95

The search for friends can lead someone to so much more. "Creede of Old Montana" is the story of one Avery Creede, who journeyed up the Missouri River to reunite with some old Civil War Army buddies. But when he doesn't find his comrades, he does find conflict after conflict, and himself in the center of them all. A story of one man's stoic nature hoping to guide him through, "Creede of Old Montana" is now available in a large print edition, making it easily accessible for lovers of Westerns whose eyes have begun to betray them.

Life Among the Lutherans
Garrison Keillor
Augsburg Books
PO box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
9780806670614, $23.99, www.augsburgfortress.org

A pastor is a leader, but he is not the solution to all of life's problems. "Life Among the Lutherans" is a collection of short stories of a small Lutheran town in America about the problems they face in their daily lives and the constant pursuit of a more perfect community. Moving and simple stories of small town life, "Life Among the Lutherans" has a very positive message, highly recommended.

An Insignificant Family
Da Ngan
Curbstone Press
321 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT 06226
9781931896481, $15.00, www.curbstone.org

War changes lives, during it and forever it after. "An Insignificant Family" is a novel of a Vietnamese family following the war with the United State. In particular, one Nguyen Thi My Tiep, who fought in the war as a guerrilla. A woman who is a good citizen at heart, her life depicts the spirit of the Vietnamese strongly through Da Ngan's fine prose. A top pick for literary fiction readers, "An Insignificant Family" is enthusiastically recommended.

The Justice Game
Randy Singer
Tyndale Fiction
351 Executive Drive, Carol Stream, IL 60188
Side Door Communications (publicity)
3004 Talaga Drive, Algonquin, IL 60102
9781414316345, $13.99, www.tyndalefiction.com

Sometimes the truth won't be exposed in the courtroom, but behind it. "The Justice Game" tells the story of Kelly Starling and Jason Noble, the persecutor and defense attorney for a majorly sensationalized firearms case, centering around a murder on live television. But what Starling and Noble soon learn, that despite being on opposite sides of the courtroom, that neither of their sides seem to be in the right, as there are more sinister forces behind it all. A fine courtroom thriller of finding justice, "The Justice Game" is quite the page turner.

Collision of Evil
John J. LeBeau
Oceanview
2817 West End Ave., Suite 126-274, Nashville, TN 37203
9781933515540, $25.95, www.oceanviewpub.com

Evil is evil, no matter how old or ancient. "Collision of Evil" is an international thriller following German detective Franz Waldbaer as he works with the brother of a murdered man to solve said murder. Shadows of past evils that the German people are ashamed of still hang over their heads as Waldbaer's investigation of the murder turns into something more than murder, he finds a larger conspiracy may be behind it all. "Collision of Evil" is an exciting thriller, sure to keep the pages turning.

The Badlands Saloon
Jonathan Twingley
Scribner
c/o Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 14th fl., New York, NY 10020
9781416587064 $30.00 www.simonsays.com 1-800-223-2336

Far from any media attention and knowledge, sits the small towns of North Dakota. "The Badlands Saloon" is an offbeat and entertaining novel from Jonathan Twingley. An art student from New York finds himself residing in small town North Dakota. He spends his nights in the Badlands Saloon, a Saloon packed with countless strange characters that range from murderers to horrible singers. Charming, entertaining, and a visual delight with unique full-color artwork splattered throughout, "The Badlands Saloon" is a fine choice for fiction readers who like their art, or the other way around.

Under the Table Books
Todd Walton
Lost Coast Press
155 Cypress Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
9781935448020 $26.95 www.cypresshouse.com

The characters that make up the stories of our lives are not always the most normal. "Under the Table Books: A Novel of Stories" composes an entertaining and delightful novel out of the stories of many strange and eccentric characters, all focused around an off the beaten path bookstore in California. The characters are all entertaining in their own right, and together they create quite the entertaining blend. "Under the Table Books" is an enthusiastically recommended and enjoyable read.

Then We Saw the Flames
Daniel A. Hoyt
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
9781558496996 $19.95 www.umass.edu/umpress 1-800-537-5487

Variety is the spice of life, and Daniel A. Hoyt has a lot of spice. "Then We Saw the Flames" is a collection of short stories from one Daniel Hoyt, as he presents a fine compilation of short stories that go into a variety of topics, with the overlying themes of the challenges that everyone faces in their life. With plenty of entertainment crammed between the covers, "Then We Saw the Flames" is a great short fiction pick.

Power's Garden
Dianne Ebertt Beeaff
Five Star Books
295 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, ME 04901
9781589851245 $15.95 http://gale.cengage.com/fivestar 1-800-223-1244

Love doesn't care for God or earthly disagreements. "Power's Garden" is the story of a typical Texas family and their clash with another family in the area who happen to be Mormons. Not getting along without any hitches, the families find themselves butting heads. But in spite of this, there may be hope yet as two of their clans find something more important. A story of rural love in the early twentieth century, "Power's Garden" is a wonderful read that many will relish, highly recommended.

Auto-Erotica
Stacia Saint Owens
The University of West Alabama
UWA Station 22, Livingston, AL 35470
9781604890259, $15.95, www.uwa.edu

At any given time, everyone has their own story, marginally related to each other. "Auto-Erotica" is a novel following this concept as author Stacia Saint Owens tells the story of many individuals throughout the city of Los Angeles. Scams, insane mothers, prostitutes, cults, and more are all the subject that Owns weaves into an entertaining, if sometimes disturbing read. "Auto-Erotica" is a top pick for contemporary fiction collections, highly recommended.


The Literary Shelf

Cuentos del Centro: Stories from the Latino Heartland
Latino Writers Collective
Scapegoat Press, LLC
PO Box 410962, Kansas City, Missouri 64141
9780979129124 $15.95

A person's fiction can tell untold things about their heart and soul. "Cuentos del Centro: Stories from the Latino Heartland" is a collection of fiction from Latino writers. The writers are varied within their culture coming to readers with stories about various topics and ideas. These are stories from Americans, and are mostly in English except where Spanish is used for emphasis. "Cuentos Del Centro" is a must for anyone who wants a wider sample of American literature in the big picture.


The Business Shelf

How I Made It, second edition
Rachel Bridge
Kogan Page US
525 South 4th Street, #241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9780749455422, $19.95, www.koganpage.com

There is more than one way to get to easy street. "How I Made It: 40 Successful Entrepreneurs Reveal How They Made Millions" imparts the wisdom of millionaires as they relay their story on how they fought tooth and nail from their own relative nothings to take their own piece of the pie. Aiming to inspire readers to do what they need to themselves to gain their riches, "How I Made It" is a top pick for self-help and business collections.

The Work at Home Sourcebook, tenth edition
Lynie Arden
Live Oak Media
PO Box 652, Pine Plains, NY 12567-0652
www.liveoakmedia.com 1-800-788-1121
9780911781205 $19.95, www.amazon.com

Working at home can do much for one's enthusiasm for their work. "The Work at Home Sourcebook" is the tenth edition of this renowned manual. Outlining the staggering amount of positions one can hold from their home, how to enter into them, the qualifications one would need, and more, "The Work at Home Sourcebook" proves an invaluable reference. "The Work at Home Sourcebook" should be at the right hand of anyone interested in a work at home job.

Design-Driven Innovation
Roberto Verganti
Harvard Business School Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
http://press.harvardbusiness.org
9781422124826 $35.00, www.amazon.com

It's easy to win the game if you're writing the rules. "Design-Driven Innovation: Changing the Rules of Competition by Radically Innovating What Things Mean" is a guide to dominating a market through pushing innovation to the point where you create your own unique market, apart from the separate. Using models such as Apple's iPod, which changed the way music was listened to or other radical changes that earned companies millions just by offering something new and unique. "Design-Driven Innovation" is a must for any business who values evolution in their company.

Brand Busters
Chris Wirthwein
Paramount Market Publishing
950 Danby Road, Suite 136, Ithaca, NY 14850
9780980174502, $24.95, www.paramountbooks.com

Marketing is the most key part of selling a product. "Brand Busters: 7 Common Mistakes Marketers Make" explores seven concepts of marketing that are commonly ignored and often lead to inevitable failure. From overestimating a customer's memory to trying to be too broad in scope, to horrible pricing techniques, Chris Wirthwein does well in providing a guide for navigating the minefield of marketing.

The Hamster Revolution
Mike Song, Vicki Halsey, & Tim Burress
Berrett-Koehler
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650, San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
C.S. Lewis & Co. Publicists (publicity)
19 Cardinal Drive, Woodstock, NY 12498
9781605090078, $19.95, www.bkconnection.com

Meetings don't have to be an agonizing nightmare. "The Hamster Revolution for Meetings: How to Meet Less and Get More Done" is a guide to streamlining the meeting system to cut away the clutter of the meetings that so often waste dozens of people's time and assassinate productivity. A treasure for those who would rather sever their arm then attend another meeting, "The Hamster Revolution for Meetings" is a top pick for business collections.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Homicide Related: A Ryan Dooley Mystery
Norah McClintock
Red Deer Press
c/o Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited
311 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135
9780889954311 $12.95 www.fitzhenry.ca

Getting one's life back on the right track after time behind bars is not an easy task. "Homicide Related: A Ryan Dooley Mystery" follows the story of titular character Ryan Dooley as he tries to walk the straight and narrow path, but soon finds his past is bent on knocking him off it. Not only that, his girlfriend's faithfulness is called into question, his mother is something he can't figure out, and his family's dark secrets may be dumped on him. "Homicide Related" is an intriguing read of trying to do what's right when everything is going wrong.

Self's Murder
Bernhard Schlink
Vintage Crime
1745 Broadway, 17th floor, New York, NY 10019
9780375709098, $15.00, www.vintagebooks.com

If you're good at something, you keep doing it to get by no matter what anyone says. "Self's Murder" tells the story of Gerhard Self, an investigator helping a banker by tracking down his lost partner. When handed money by a mysterious man who is killed shortly after, Gerhard is faced with quite the enigma, and it seems he's forced to do what he does best - solve the case. "Self's Murder" is a choice pick for lovers of mystery.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

The Complete Guide to Writing Effective Resume Cover Letters
Kimberly Sarmiento
Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc.
1405 S.W. 6th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471
9781601382382 $29.95 www.atlantic-pub.com

For so many jobs, it may boil down to the presentation of the resume. "The Complete Guide to Writing Effective Resume Cover Letters: Step-by-Step Instructions" is a guide for job hunters who want to have every edge they can in getting that job of their dreams. The cover letter is the first thing many employers see, and first impressions are lasting - a poor one is a pain to recover from. Offering countless tips and tricks, author Kimberly Sarmeinto packs in a companion CD with many samples to help job seekers out. "The Complete Guide to Writing Effective Resume Cover Letters" is a strong consideration for those about to send out resumes.


The Psychology Shelf

Caveman Logic
Hank Davis
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197
9781591027218 $19.98 www.prometheusbooks.com

Even with all the technology and scientific advancement we have, we're still nothing more than hairless apes. "Caveman Logic: The Persistence of Primitive Thinking in a Modern World" is a discussion of this irrationality that seems to affect all of mankind. Written in a light hearted manner, the issue is not one necessarily one to be laughed at, being the root of many problems America and its neighbors still face. A delve into the psychology of modern man and how the vestigial instincts still drive us, "Caveman Logic" is an utterly fascinating read that will shed light on modern reason.

An American Jungian
George R. Elder & Dianne D. Cordic, editors
Inner City Books
Box 1271, Station Q, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M4T 2P4
9781894574266 $35.00 www.innercitybooks.net

Often, good ideas start in other countries, but it takes someone else to bring it to America. "An American Jungian: In Honor of Edward F. Edinger" explores this psychiatrist who was on the frontier of bringing Jungian philosophy to America, and throughout his life published many psychological manuals to help others in their research of the mind. Much of his shorter work and essays are provided within this volume, offering a snapshot of one of the greatest minds in the recent history of American psychology. "An American Jungian" would do well in any psychological collection, especially with those with a focus on its history.

Memory Rehabilitation
Barbara A. Wilson
Guilford Publications, Inc.
72 Spring Street, New York, NY 10012
9781606232873 $48.00 www.guilford.com

They say the memory is the first thing to go, but can it be taken back? "Memory Rehabilitation: Integrating Theory and Practice" is a scholarly psychological text discussing memory and how to rehabilitate it when faced with disorders such as amnesia, memory loss attributed to age and other disorders such as Alzheimers. The therapies listed include everything from simple aids to ways to train one's mind. "Memory Rehabilitation" is a informed and highly scholarly text that does well in every community or college library collection that focuses on psychology and its disorders.


The Parenting Shelf

The Safe Baby, expanded and revised edition
Debra Smiley Holtzman
Sentient Publications
1113 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302
9781591810858 $16.95 www.sentientpublications.com 1-303-443-2188

Every parent wants their child to be safe. "The Safe Baby: A Do-It-Yourself Guide to Home Safety and Healthy Living" is an expanded and revised edition of Debra Smiley Holtzman's previous volumes on doing what one can to baby proofing one's home. The home is a dangerous place, and it's impossible to assure complete safety, but there are many things a parent can do to lower the chances of an accident. With plenty of tips on advice on a more safe environment for one's child, "The Safe Baby" is a fine volume for parents to have on hand, and an excellent baby shower gift.

The Autism Transition Guide
Carolyn Thorwarth Bruey, Psy.D.
Mary Beth Urban, M.Ed.
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
9781890627812 $19.95 www.woodbinehouse.com

School is meant to prepare anyone for the life ahead, but autistic students require a special approach. "The Autism Transition Guide: Planning the Journey From School to Adult Life" is a guide for educators and parents who want to best prepare their autistic child for the more complex nuances of adult life. Housing, employment, and other topics are discussed in this informative help book for parents and their autistic children. "The Autism Transition Guide" as such is a strong consideration for parents of these special children.


The Gaming Shelf

Planning the Play of a Bridge Hand
Barbara Seagram and David Bird
Master Point Press
331 Douglas Ave., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5M 1H2
9781897106518 $19.95 www.masterpointpress.com

Bridge can be a fun game, but it can be quite daunting to get into at times. "Planning the Play of a Bridge Hand" is an introductory guide to the game of bridge. Explaining simple strategies that one needs to learn when first starting, Barbara Seagram and David Bird cover the basics and then some. For anyone looking to get into the game of bridge, "Planning the Play of a Bridge Hand" is a solid pick and is highly recommended.

Dangerous Weapons: The King's Indian
Richard Palliser, Glenn Flear, and Yelena Dembo
Everyman Chess
c/o The Globe Pequot Press
PO Box 480, Guilford, CT 06437
9781857445930, $24.95, www.everymanchess.com 1-800-243-0495

Chess is a game to see who has the most effective strategies. "Dangerous Weapons: The King's Indian: Dazzle Your Opponents!" is a guide to using what is considered an unorthodox opening in the game of chess, the King's Indian. Examining the strategy, its history, and how each side of the board must play it different to gain the most effect, expert player Richard Palliser and his collaborators bring forth much wisdom concerning the game of chess, which can help readers secure more victories. "Dangerous Weapons" is a fine choice for expanding one's chess arsenal.


The Science Shelf

Organizational Learning at NASA
Julianne G. Mahler with Maureen Hogan Casamayou
Georgetown University Press
3240 Prospect Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007
9781589012660 $29.95 www.press.georgetown.edu 1-800-246-9606

Tragic accidents need not be total losses. "Organizational Learning at NASA: The Challenger & Columbia Accidents" is a discussion of whether NASA is truly learning from its mistakes. Both accidentals were blamed on organizational failures which allowed technological failures. The authors ask if that's what caused the first, why did the second occur? Tracing what NASA truly did between the accidents and what has happened since the Challenger incident in 2003, "Organizational Learning at NASA" is an informed and informative critique of modern NASA, highly recommended.

The Handy Weather Answer Book, second edition
Kevin Hile
Visible Ink Press
43311 Joy Road #414, Canton, MI 48187-2075
9781578592210 $21.95 www.visibleink.com

Weather is a complicated subject, but it affects so much in our lives. Now in a newly revised second edition, "The Handy Weather Answer Book" is a non-specialist general reader's guide to meteorology. Answering many questions that many readers ponder about their weather forecasts, the impact of weather on a world wide scale, and many other questions, well over one thousand in all. For anyone curious about the subtle nuances of the weather, "The Handy Weather Answer Book" is a top pick.


The Political Science Shelf

Just One Vote
Ian Stewart
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College, Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R3T 2M5
www.umanitoba.ca/uofmpress
9780887557118 $26.95, www.amazon.com

The greatness of democracy is every vote counting. "Just One Vote: From Jim Walding's Nomination to Constitutional Defeat" uses Canadian politics as a model where those single votes truly did make all the difference in the world. Set in the 80s, this is the true story of how one man, Jim Walding, was elected by a single vote and defeated his own government by the same margin. Jim Walding is a key figure in Canadian politics, and "Just One Vote" is an ideal addition to any political collection discussing Canadian politics or democracy on a whole.


The Military Shelf

The Surge
Kimberly Kagan
Encounter Books
900 Broadway, Suite 601, New York, NY 10003
9781594032493, $25.95, www.encounterbooks.com

Peace in Iraq seems ever more possible as time rolls on. "The Surge: A Military History" is an operation by operation analysis of the United States actions in Iraq for past few years, in particular since the troop surge of 2006 began. Kimberly Kagan does well in presenting this military history; Kagan herself president of the Institute of the Study of War. For anyone who wants a more complete history of the current Iraq conflict, "The Surge" is a scholarly and informative text.

Peace at Last
Deborah L. Grassman
Vandamere Press
PO Box 149, St. Petersburg, FL 33731-0149
9780918339720 $19.95 www.vandamere.com

Peace is something always discussed but rarely realized. "Peace at Last: Stories of Hope and Healing for Veterans and Their Families" is a collection of memoirs from Deborah L. Grassman, compiling the stories of a quarter century of veterans and presenting them in this volume. Their stories, meant for other veterans and those who love them, serves as quite the inspiration. "Peace at Last" is something to be enjoyed by anyone who is searching for peace themselves.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Is Yeshua the Prophesied Messiah of the Hebrew Bible?
Dan Kane
Winepress Publishing Group
1730 Railroad Street, Enumclaw, WA 98022
9781606150030 $19.99 www.winepressgroup.com

Could Jesus really be the Messiah that was prophesied? "Is Yeshua the Prophesied Messiah of the Hebrew Bible?" is an scholarly research of the Hebrew Torah and its own prophecies regarding the Jewish Messiah. Stating that Jesus, also referred to as Yeshua in some texts, does share some of the qualities that were said the Jewish messiah said to have, Dan Kane offers much insight to this religious debate and its impact on history and on the Christian and Jewish traditions. "Is Yeshua the Prophesied Messiah of the Hebrew Bible?" is well worth the consideration for any scholar, professional or amateur, or the Abrahamic religions.

Encounters
Kim Sung-Hae and James Heisig
The Royal Asiatic Society
c/o Cheng & Tsui Company
25 West Street, Boston, MA 02111-1213
9788995442494, $35.00, www.cheng-tsui.com

Religion is an ever-changing beast, with new ideas being founded every day. "Encounters: The New Religions of Korea and Christianity" is the theological discussion of the emerging religions of South Korea from the perspective of Christianity. Covering each faith's origins, beliefs, and where they stand today, "Encounters" is a must for those who want to understand modern world religions as a whole and the sects that split off them. "Encounters" is a recommended addition to community library religious collections.

Validating Violence, Violating Faith?
William W. Emilsen & John T. Squires, editor
ATF Press
c/o International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9781920691899, $30.00, www.atfpress.com

Millions of children are encouraged to read it, but the Bible may be one of the most violent things one can ever lay eyes on. "Validating Violence, Violating Faith?: Religion, Scripture, and Violence" is an examination of the violence and violent imagery that one can find in the scripture of the three Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Discussing this violence and providing many observations on the subjects, William Emilsen and John Squires provide quite the discussion and insight. "Validating Violence, Violating Faith" is a fine addition to any Bible study collection.

Becoming Fire
Sally K. Severino, M.D.
Epigraph Publishing
c/o Monkfish Book Publishing Company
27 Lamoree Road, Rhinebeck, New York 12572
9780982453001 $24.95 www.epigraphPS.com

Sigmund Freud was a staunch atheist, but can his teachings be applied to the spiritual? "Becoming Fire: A Freudian Psychoanalyst's Spiritual Journey" blends the teachings of Freud with modern psychotherapy for a unique read. Drawing upon her own journey, science, and spirituality, Sally K. Severino brings readers a truly unique memoir. "Becoming Fire: A Freudian Psychoanalyst's Spiritual Journey" is a solid addition to any spirituality collection.

Interrupted
Jen Hatmaker
Navpress
PO Box 35001, Colorado Springs, CO 80935
9781600062179, $12.99, www.navpress.com

When church life becomes stagnant, the prayers become more and more lip service. "Interrupted: An Adventure in Relearning the Essentials of Faith" is a guide to revolutionizing one's church to refresh the faith and piety of one's congregation. Revolution restores passion for one's faith, which is important for keeping a congregation together in the long term. "Interrupted: An Adventure in Relearning the Essentials of Faith" is quite the read and a top pick for anyone looking to revitalize their church.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Yellowstone Drift
John Holt
AK Press
674-A 23rd Street, Oakland, CA 94612-1163
9781904859895, $18.95, www.akpress.org

There are few things left in nature completely unspoiled by mankind. "Yellowstone Drift: Floating the Past in Real Time" is a memoir of John Holt's journey through the Yellowstone river, one of the last rivers in America completely un-dammed and regulated by man. Recounting his experiences travel down the river, he paints vivid imagery through his prose, giving readers a taste of what may not be here in the future. "Yellowstone Drift" is of strong interest to any nature reader, highly recommended.

Restoring Wildlife
Michael L. Morrison
Island Press
1718 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20009-1148
9781597264938 $45.00 www.islandpress.org 1-800-828-1302

Loss and debilitation of habitats happens, but recovery is possible. "Restoring Wildlife: Ecological Concepts and Practical Applications" is an environmental text about wildlife restoration and how it is being executed throughout the countryside. Discussing wildlife populations and when mankind should intervene, techniques of intervention, situations where we should be cautious, and how to make these projects success stories, author Michael Morrison does well in presenting a highly through text on the subject. "Restoring Wildlife" is a fine addition to any community or college library environmental collection.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

He Was Some Kind of a Man
Roderick McGillis
Wilfrid Laurier University Press
75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5, Canada
9781554580590, $29.95, www.wlupress.wlu.ca

Manly men, these were the stars of the cheesy Western of yesteryear. "He Was Some Kind of Man: Masculinities in the B Western" discusses masculinity and how it appeared in the low budget films of decades ago, that were studded by names like Roy Rogers. These films shaped a generation, and speak much on the psyche of its viewers and how it has affected society as a whole. "He Was Some Kind of Man" is a solid and recommended read for any studying film and psychology.

Coming Soon
Keith M. Johnston
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
9780786444328 $39.95 www.mcfarlandpub.com 1-800-253-2187

The advancement of new technologies can sell a movie in its own, people wanting to see the marvels of the latest modeling and other such advancements. "Coming Soon: Film Trailers and the Selling of Hollywood Technology" is a discussion of new technologies in film making and how new technology can sell movies. And in a meta manner, how the fact that this can sell movies pushes new technology further. "Coming Soon" is an intriguing read about Hollywood's ever changing technology, highly recommended.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Prime
Nate Kenyon
Apex Publications, LLC
PO Box 24323, Lexington, KY 40524
9780982159620 $13.95 www.apexbookcompany.com

The advancement of science continues to dehumanize people, yet could it eventually go too far? "Prime" tells the story of one William Bellow, a man who finds himself coming closer and closer with something known as the 'Transformation' which pushes him to becoming more machine than man. But Bellow may lose his life in this process, as he has to fight for his very existence in multiple fronts of the world. "Prime" is something that will entice many a science fiction reader.

Albrim's Curse
Trevis Powell
BlackWyrm Publishing
10307 Chimney Ridge Ct., Louisville, KY 40299
9780982006740, $11.95

Is humanity a definite quality? "Albrim's Curse" tells the story of a young man coming of age with a serious problem - lycanthropy. Sent away from his family, he serves under a warrior, doing what he can to recover his humanity and just be the best person he can, even if he's sometimes not a person. "Albrim's Curse" is a fascinating and highly recommended read for young readers with an interest in fantasy.


The Philosophy Shelf

Stephen Colbert and Philosophy
Aaron Allen Schiller
Open Court
70 East Lake Street, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60601
9780812696615, $19.95, www.shanearbogast.com

Who knew a spinoff on a second rate cable network could have such an impact? "Stephen Colbert and Philosophy: I Am Philosophy (And So Can You!)" approaches the character Stephen Colbert, the man behind the character, and how the Colbert Report has had quite the impact on modern society and politics despite being admittedly nothing more than a comedy show. "Stephen Colbert and Philosophy" is another fine addition to the pop-culture and philosophy series, sure to please fans of both 'The Report' and the book series.


The Fashion Shelf

Altered You!
Karin Buckingham
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle, Waukesha, WI 53186
9780871162601 $19.95 www.kalmbachbooks.com 1-800-533-6644

You can wear purchased stuff as is, or you can apply your own personal touch to make it truly yours. "Altered You!: Alter Your Style... Your Stuff... Your Space" is a guide for young adults who want to apply their own personal spins on their clothes, bags, and other possessions. Hoping to inspire creativity in young readers, "Altered You!" is a must for any blossoming fashion designer or young girls with their own creative bend. "Altered You!" is a fine gift for one's teenager or other creative loved one.


The Sports Shelf

Golf From the Ground Up
Geoff Bryant
Buford Books
32 Morris Avenue, Springfield, NJ 07081
9781580801546, $16.95, www.bufordbooks.com

If you don't have the foundation, what are you going to build on? "Golf From the Ground Up: A New Focus on Fundamentals from a Master Teaching Pro" is a guide to mastering the most basic of golf skills to give the aspiring pro golfer the techniques they need and how to avoid most of the bad habits that bring many rookie players down. "Golf From the Ground Up" is a top pick for anyone who wants to master the game of golf.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Dogs Are From Neptune, second edition
Jean Donaldson
Dogwise Publishing
403 S Mission St. Wenatchee, WA 98801
9781929242658, $14.95, www.dogwise.com

Men are from Mars, women are from Venus, dogs are from Neptune. Now in a newly revised and expanded second edition, "Dogs Are From Neptune" plays on the concept of that other famed self-help book to a guide readers better understand their dogs and their occasionally baffling behavioral patterns which so often seems to work against dog and owner's best interests. Outlining the fundamentals that all creatures follow and building on that, "Dogs Are From Neptune" is a must read for someone who wants to better understand man's best friend.


The Journalism Shelf

The Vanishing Newspaper, second edition
Philip Meyer
University of Missouri Press
2910 Lemone Blvd., Columbia, MO 65202
9780826218773, $24.95, www.press.umsystem.edu

Why read a newspaper when the internet has everything one wants and more? Now in a newly revised and updated second edition, "The Vanishing Newspaper: Saving Journalism in the Information Age" is a business model for newspapers who want to keep their business booming during a time where newspapers seem more and more like a relic of the past than a way to communicate the news. Promoting an 'influence' model, author Philip Meyer offers newspapers much sage advice for their modern survival. "The Vanishing Newspaper" is a very highly recommended read for those who run newspapers of any size, or those who are concerned with the future of print media.


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


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